It's tricky to find affordable pieces that look luxe throughout the winter (cheap coats, for example, can often be spotted a mile off). There's something about the comparative simplification of summer dressing, however, that allows it. Cheeky, irreverent trends are created by high-fashion houses and high-street megaliths alike (who can really tell apart a $30 leather thong sandal from a $345 pair?).
My extensive trawling through the high street has resulted in two things. Firstly, I dropped a whole heap of cash at Zara and & Mango, and secondly, I started noticing some common threads that pull all the chicest items on the high street together. There are certain trends you can get away with pretending you spent a fortune on, like gold pendant necklaces (medallions always look pricey) and chunkier ribbed-knit tanks (almost all our high-street faves have a version).
Keep scrolling to see the seven key affordable summer trends you can invest in now.
1. Ribbed-Knit Tank
Chunky ribbed-knit tanks are not only the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe (yes, I own them in brown, cream and black), but they also always look really expensive. Racer-backs are having a real moment this summer, as Lindsey Holland proves in her black tank. Another great tip is to size up in these, as they look chicer a bit looser.
2. Prairie Dresses
Prairie-style dresses are having a real moment right now, and finally they've arrived at a price we can afford. Think big sleeves, summery prints and long hemlines that make them a comfortable option for the heat. If you prefer something shorter, & Other Stories has really nailed the mini-prairie.
3. Thong Sandals
Grown-up flip flops have taken over our 'gram recently, and they just might be the most expensive-looking sandals of the summer. Whether you're a flats girl or prefer kitten heels, their simplicity means no one will be able to tell if you've paid $30 or $350 for them.
4. White Blouses
The white shirt will always be a summer favorite for us, and the more "extra" they are, the more expensive they look. While we can't help but drool over Pernille's Attico blouse, we've found a few that are more budget-friendly.
5. Gold Pendant Necklace
If you want your jewelry to look super-spendy without the hefty price tag, the key is to layer a few different length pendants on finer chains. You can also count on our findings to not turn green after five minutes of wearing them.
6. Knee-Length Tailored Shorts
It can be difficult to find shorts that feel grown-up and look elevated, but we really love long tailored shorts that you can wear with T-shirts or a blazer for a more executive look.
This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.
