I recently covered the specific affordable yet expensive-looking items I recommended to my mother when she inquired about adding a few new pieces into her wardrobe. She was quite into the suggestions because, as she said, "I love when my friends ask me about a chic item I’m wearing and I get to say that it was actually pretty cheap.” On that note, I thought it could be fun to show her a range of other affordable items that look high-end to get her thoughts.
So during one of our latest catch-ups, I pulled up a slew of some of my recent favorite under-$75 items and asked her if she thought they looked more expensive than they actually were. In the end, there were 11 standout pieces that she thought looked particularly elevated and pricier because of the timeless, sophisticated, and/or forward-feeling details. Intrigued? Keep scrolling to check out the batch. If you keep going, you’ll also uncover more next-level pieces that could be of interest if you’re shopping at the moment.
Shop the Elevated Pieces
It’s the on-trend details—like the puff sleeves and smocking—that makes this dress look way more expensive than it is.
Hey there, this is from the Who What Wear line. It was a standout given its forward shape and high-end-feeling mock croc.
Honestly, my mother was shocked when I told her these were in the $50 range. She thought the leather look would’ve made them pricier.
Quite elevated with the pretty, gathered sleeves.
Bold and—as my mother stated—"so fashiony.”
My mother adored this vibrant top for its striking nature.
Faux suede brings a shoe silhouette like this to the next level.
So polished and sophisticated for just $35.
It’s the intricate fabric that gives this polo a special feel.
So sleek and the quality is there.
The faux leather and clean silhouette are what gives this $75 skirt quite a "fancy” vibe.
Shop More Affordable Items
Very pretty with the wrap detail.
Such a forward T-shirt.
Gorgeous with the asymmetric straps and unique hue.
Quite chic with the plissé pleats.
High-end feeling and on trend.
A next-level basic to bring a modern twist to a look.
A playful dress that will certainly garner compliments at under $50.
Sweet and cool with the smocked accents.
This top is where it’s at with the sheen and current-feeling silhouette.
Remember that bracelet above? All about a chain-link necklace as well.
An It silhouette with the flat shape and wrap effect.
Substantial statement earrings at an affordable price point.
A polished skirt that could be dressed up or down.
