Read the Tag a Bit Closer—These 6 Luxe Winter Fabrics Make Every Outfit Expensive-Looking

If you’re searching for a simple trick to instantly elevate your outfits, the answer might be hanging right behind you—literally, in the tag on your clothes. Simply shifting your shopping strategy can make all the difference because certain fabrics just look way more expensive than others regardless of the price tag. No matter your budget, paying attention to the materials will make all the difference. With the right fabrics, even the simplest outfit can look like a million bucks—no designer logos required.

This winter, I’m zooming in on the details section of every shopping page I can find. The fabric notes in the product description better exceed my expectations. Think cashmere blends, merino wool, and a few underrated options you’ll want on your radar. Whether you’re shopping for outerwear, knits, or accessories, these fabrics will have you exuding quiet luxury all season long. Elevate your wardrobe without blowing your budget by reading this.

1. Merino Wool

anouk wearing a wool sweater and jeans

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

A wool sweater is always nice, but when you choose merino, you’re stepping up your game. This fabric is extremely fine making for a softer texture and is a lot less likely to cause itching or irritation. I have owned plenty of wool sweaters that are uncomfortable, so now that I know to look for merino, the game has changed.

2. Suede

woman wearing luxe fabrics

(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

This just might be looking like the best decade for suede since the 1970s. It’s a bit of a risk to wear suede due to its sensitivity to harsh weather conditions, so wearing it is almost like making a statement.

3. Silk Satin

woman wearing luxe fabrics

(Image credit: @monikh)

Although traditionally lightweight, silk pieces like blouses, slip skirts, or scarves add a touch of elegance and pair beautifully with heavier fabrics like wool and leather. A lot of my friends have been asking me what to do if they’re tired of wearing just jeans and a sweater, and I always tell them to try silk pants instead.

4. Tweed

sierra mayhew wearing luxe fabrics

(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Classic and timeless tweed brings a touch of vintage-inspired luxury to every outfit. Think Chanel-esque blazers or skirts with modern tailoring. No matter what you pay for it, I’ve yet to see something in tweed that doesn’t look expensive. It’s a fabric that you can’t lose in.

5. Cashmere

woman wearing luxe fabrics

(Image credit: @anna__laplaca)

Cashmere is synonymous with luxury, so it should be no surprise to you that I’ve included it here. It's known for its buttery softness and insulating properties and is the gold standard for cozy-chic winter dressing. Whether it’s a sweater, scarf, or even socks, this fabric is perfect for gifting and screams understated luxury.

6. Velvet

woman wearing luxe fabrics

(Image credit: @elizagracehuber)

The rich texture and slight sheen of velvet makes it perfect for the holiday season but this year, I’m wearing it for much longer. I’m loving the jewel-toned blazers, dresses, or pants for a truly opulent look that I just can’t imagine ever looking cheap.

Sierra Mayhew
Fashion Editor

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.