Lately, it seems like you can't go outside or online without being faced with one hard reality: Inflation is high. While the fiscal well-being of each person differs, there's no denying that the rise in the cost of everyday necessities has made most household budgets a bit tighter, making extra money for shopping less of a priority. However, just because our belts have tightened doesn't mean that we want to look like things have changed. In fact, one could argue that the cultural interest in fashion aesthetics such as quiet luxury and old money is driven by our collective desire to cosplay as the wealthy.
Whatever the rationale, it's safe to say that it's quite common among the fashion crowd to want to curate a closet that looks expensive without expending too much money. Of course, that's easier said than done. Admittedly, it can be challenging at times to find chic and cheap items—it's a skill set that takes time to build. Luckily for you, that's the point of my job. In an effort to help you find the best rich-looking summer finds, I've spent hours searching through the new-arrivals section of some of our favorite retailers, including J.Crew, Nordstrom, H&M, Mango, Gap, COS, Aritzia, Madewell, Anthropologie, and Reformation. Whether you're looking for a few new summer staples or just want to look like you're a walking stack of cash, any of these 38 rich-looking summer items, all under $150, will do the trick.
Everything about this bag is so chic, from the compact bowling shape to the chocolate-brown suede.
Sublime.
I can't pass up a pair of chocolate brown trousers—they are my kryptonite.
Finally! Here's a pair of mesh flats that are minimal but still affordable.
Never underestimate the power of a pair of earrings.
A dress so good it makes one consider redownloading a dating app.
These mules look designer, don't they?
The scoop neckline adds a sophisticated touch to this summer staple.
You'll end up living in this skirt for the rest of the summer.
Take this as a sign that it's time to elevate your thong sandals.
Suit up.
Waistcoats are a must-have for a work wardrobe.
Linen pants will always be a "yes" in my books.
Chic, chic, chic.
Even if you're not heading to the South of France, this straw tote will bring that je ne sais quoi to all your summer ensembles.
Even if you don't own a holiday home in Nantucket, this dress will give off that impression.
Hardware sandals are having a moment, okay!
Love the shade of this tank top.
Styling your staples with a statement belt will make them look far more sophisticated.
You can dress these trousers up or down depending upon your plans.
Strappy sandals will always be the shoes of choice for the summertime.
These pretty pearl earrings will surely pique other people's interests.
I can attest to this dress being extremely flattering.
Butter yellow is the color of the summer, so basically, buying this bag is necessary.
No country club membership required.
Insider tip: Look for longer denim shorts to make this staple feel more elevated.
It's never too early to start shopping for the fall.
Sharing in case you want to pretend you'll be sailing in Saint-Tropez this summer.
Belted shorts will always be the epitome of preppy.
Pop off, Madewell.
These are so Alaïa coded.
Excuse me—I need to take three to five business days to process this top. It's that good.
I'd suggest investing in a satin slip skirt—it's a simple way to look snazzy this summer.
A collared shirt as crisp as a dollar bill.
Upgrade your commuter tote.
White jeans will always make all your summer outfits look 10 times wealthier.
Sneakers will always scream money.
If this dress doesn't prove to you that you don't have to spend a small fortune to look sophisticated this summer, nothing will.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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