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.
Shop:
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.
Shop:
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.
Shop:
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.
Shop:
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.
Shop:
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.
Shop:
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.
Shop:
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 industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. 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. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
-
Suddenly, All the Chicest People I Know Are Upgrading Their Outfits With This Winter Accessory Trend
Inspired by the early 1900s.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Sunglasses! Sneakers! Jewelry! Here Are the Top 2025 Accessories That Will Replace 2024 Styles
It's all about personality.
By Emma Spedding
-
I Don't Do Maximalism—6 Quiet Luxury Trends That Are Still Cool in 2025
On-trend, not trendy.
By Natalie Cantell
-
Luxe, French, and Perfectly Trendy: The New Designer Sunglasses I Refuse to Take Off
And how I'm styling each.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
So You Want a Rich-Looking Wardrobe? Start With These 7 Elegant Foundational Pieces
They don't have to cost the Earth.
By Natalie Cantell
-
Rhode Phone Cases, Pigeon Bags, and More—10 Trends I Spotted in the F1 Paddock This Season
Sports and fashion met at the track.
By Eliza Huber
-
IMO, These Are the Absolute Best Under-$300 Items to Shop Right Now
Yes, including these Reformation jeans.
By Natalie Cantell
-
Sorry to My Go-To Accessories, But I'm Replacing You With This Rich-Looking Trend
Truly the easiest outfit upgrade.
By Natalie Cantell