These Under-$100 Accessories Will Make Your Outfit Feel Expensive
If you're looking for a way to look—excuse my French—"bougie on a budget," then you've come to the right place. Who What Wear was a trailblazer in that category way before it was cool to admit that you got it from Zara. There will be no label shaming here because we're here to make fashion accessible to all, no matter what your budget is.
One of the best ways to take an affordable outfit to the next level is through accessories. Fun fact: No matter what many of the designer labels might tell you, they don't need to break the bank. You have no idea how much fun I have sourcing vintage designer finds and buying into that It item, but to be a fashion person, the splurge is not a requirement.
Most people don't know this, but it actually really matters what kind of accessory you buy on a budget. When you choose the right item, you're guaranteed to be successful. The below accessories are approved by, well, me, but I know what I'm doing here, so you're in good hands. Just adding one of the below items to your wardrobe will make all the difference, so let's see what you find.
1. Cool-Girl Sunnies
This is the easiest trick in the book to pulling together an outfit that feels expensive. I rarely leave the house these days without a pair of sunglasses, and when I do, I just don't feel like myself. Add to your own personal collection of sunnies with the cute picks below.
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2. Effortless Shouler Bags
Shoulder bags basically own me right now. I love a good crossbody, but if you want your look to feel a step above the rest, swap it out for a shoulder bag now and then. These ones feel very right now.
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3. Lazy Loafers
I'm calling them lazy loafers because they're just that. Low effort is required to slide this footwear on, yet it makes a maximum impact. There are so many under-$100 styles, but my picks are the best.
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4. Sporty Chic
Baseball-hat lovers, don't fret. This is still such an easy way to step up any outfit that hangs in your closet. For me, a good logo that feels elevated gives it that extra-special touch that I'm looking for.
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5. Barely-There Jewelry
I love a chunky gold necklace or statement earring, but when buying more affordable pieces, I definitely take the minimal route. It feels more expensive and less like costume jewelry, so my mission is complete.
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6. Modern Mules
Modern-day mules are bold, unique, and different. They're one of the best ways to finish out a look because of how easily they translate to "right now" fashion. I can't stop ordering them.
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7. Just Belt It
My belt collection is my saving grace. Anytime I look in the mirror and my outfit feels mediocre, I throw on a belt, and the whole look comes together. That's what I love about accessories—you definitely need this one.
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Up Next: I'm Spotting Every "Need to Know" Shoe Trend at Zara—6 I'm Losing It Over
Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of experience in the fashion industry to the editorial team. Since joining Who What Wear in 2021, Sierra has made her mark by expertly blending luxury and accessible fashion content. Whether she's decoding the latest runway presentations or crafting a perfectly curated shopping list, Sierra's keen eye and relatable approach have solidified her as a trusted voice in the fashion space. She's also reported on major industry events like Paris Fashion Week and lent her expertise to red carpet coverage, ensuring her audience gets an insider's view of the most glamorous moments in style. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. Her ability to translate editorial expertise into viral social media content sets her apart, seamlessly bringing her articles and personality to life for a new generation of readers and followers. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra brings a unique perspective to the fashion industry that is informed by her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
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