Wanting your outfit to look expensive doesn’t mean having to blow your budget on designer items. Even the wealthiest women mix designer pieces with cheap items that look luxe. I was recently out to brunch at a trendy restaurant in SOHO, and I was surprised to see that the same women who carried Birkins and wore tweed Chanel jackets were also wearing two very affordable accessories.
Firstly, I noticed many of them styling their jeans and heels (or sometimes flats) with a pair of sheer socks or tights. As someone who has gotten one too many blisters from the rubbing of uncomfortable leather shoes, this styling choice strikes me as both practical and stylish. It’s a dressier alternative to cotton gym socks but offers more protection than just forgoing hosiery altogether.
Secondly, many of the women I was eyeing were wearing sleek baseball caps. Though this accessory is universally beloved and by no means a marker of luxury, I found it to be a smart way to make a designer-heavy look feel a bit less fussy. Worth noting: a baseball cap also offers sun protection, which is crucial for women who are spending thousands of dollars on their skincare routine, or like me, someone who applies sunscreen every morning religiously.
Ahead, find outfits featuring these two accessories for inspiration, and then shop some of my favorite options, starting at just $12, so you can achieve the luxe look no matter what your budget may be.
For fans of French-girl style, this trend has the Parisian seal of approval. A pair of dark wash boot-cut jeans gets a dressy touch via a pair of sheer socks and black pointed heels.
A simple polka dot option.
Sheer tights that won't slip.
How about a pop of pink?
You can't beat $12 for five pairs.
Tailored looks aren't just for the office. To style trousers, blouses, and structured coats in a way that feels more relaxed, try adding a baseball cap onto the ensemble. Take inspiration from luxe women who balance dressy pieces, like a designer purse, with a casual cap.
For a future Italian getaway.
Wear with neutrals.
Cool with jeans or troursers.
For fans of Scandi style.
To dress up a favorite pair of jeans, rely on your accessories. Sheer tights with an anklet layered over them makes for an elegant and unexpected combination that looks so luxe.
Not your usual sheer tights.
These tall socks won't slip.
Tights with a luxe touch.
Let lace peek through from underneath your jeans.
For the fan of classic black.
A casual weekend look gets a touch of cool thanks to a sleek baseball hat. Even if your hair is due for a shampooing or your eyes are feeling tired from the night before, no one will be the wiser when you have this incognito hat on.
Not just for New Yorkers.
For tennis enthusiasts and trendsetters.
Classic, with a preppy touch.
A comfy hat for those who prefer no logos.
You'll look cool in this J.Crew hat.
As an alternative to your usual jenans, try styling a pair of sheer tights or socks with a cropped pair of trousers for a dressy spin on the look. Finish the ensemble off with a favorite pair of black heels or flats to keep things simple.
These socks are a cool alternative to classic white.
Wear with pants or skirts.
Try styling these socks with your favorite loafers.
Feeling fancy? These lace socks are ideal.
A butterfly pattern is a subtle surprise.
