If you read my Who What Wear stories regularly, you’ll know I suffer from Expensive Taste, Small Budget Syndrome. (Check out how I nail the most-expensive-looking fall trends on a budget, this season's expensive It boots for under $100, and the most luxurious looking (but cheap!) Amazon sweaters.) What can I say? I crave a luxe runway look, but my bank account advises otherwise.
Fortunately, as a fashion market editor, I’ve been able to treat this sartorial complex by discovering some of the coolest brands, stores, and retailers that offer posh-looking pieces without the hefty price tag. Below, I’m sharing some of my favorites. Some you definitely know and others you may never have heard of, but all offer gorgeous, expensive-looking pieces that won’t do too much damage on your bank balance. Scroll below as I share some of my favorite pieces to shop from these brands.
1. Pixie Market
Pixie Market’s select offerings of trend-forward and elevated basics like tops, knits, skirts, and jewelry look seriously luxurious. And while it does offer higher-priced pieces in addition to its affordable finds, you’re sure to find something on the site you'll love.
2. Charles & Keith
Charles & Keith carries the most swoon-worthy shoes and bags with most items clocking in at under $100 (but look like they cost a lot more!) Trust us when we say, they'll induce major compliments.
3. Mango
Mango is unquestionably one of my go-tos when I'm looking for expensive-looking pieces at a lower price point. It does help that its online styling is seriously on point and it provides chic inspiration on how to wear each piece.
4. Pull & Bear
We've all heard of Zara (which unquestionably makes this list!), but do you know its sister brand, Pull & Bear? While its site generally skews a little younger, there are plenty of trend-forward and elevated basics that look chic no matter what your age. And the prices are very affordable.
5. Loéil
Loéil has a small selection of delicate minimal silhouettes and statement feminine pieces that look like they've come straight off the runway. The pieces are pretty decently priced for the unique and exclusive pieces on offer.
6. Warehouse
I used to shop Warehouse a lot when I lived in England. The British high-street brand is known for its trend-forward day-to-night pieces that look much more expensive than their price tag. While they don't have a store in the U.S., you can shop a small selection directly on ASOS.
7. Halogen, Nordstrom
Nordstrom has a handful of in house brands that are super cool and relatively affordable. I particularly love Halogen for its chic and polished pieces (that look pricey!). Their cashmere sweaters are some of my favorites I own—and are all under $100. The brand often does collaborations with fashion influencers which are always super on point. (This season it's with @blaireadiebee).
8. Mejuri
When it comes to expensive-looking jewelry, I always turn to Mejuri. While there are certainly pricier items on their site, the majority of pieces are relatively affordable (under $100). I particularly love their hoop earrings and modern rings.
9. Eloquii
For work, weekend, and everything in between, Eloquii carries some of the chicest plus-size pieces around that could seriously pass for designer.
10. Everlane
If you're looking for upscale, elevated basics, then look no further that minimalist-chic brand Everlane. Its silk and cashmere pieces all clock in at under $100 and its sleek leather shoes are seriously luxurious looking.
11. Babaton, Aritzia
Our editors rage about the expensive-feel of Babaton's ribbed-knit tank tops. Timeless and classic, they'll last you a lifetime and are priced at a decent $68. Check out the brand's cool range of power blouses and soft sweaters too.
12. Zara
Zara never fails to bring us runway-inspired looks for a fraction of the price. Take inspiration from the way it styles its pieces on the site—they always look so upscale.
Up next, how I would nail the most expensive-looking fall trends on a budget.
