18 Affordable Fashion Staples for an Upscale Appearance

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You don't have to break the bank to look wealthy. An air of sophistication and luxury is attainable even on a tight budget, with some savvy shopping choices, creativity, and patience in bargain hunting. Keep in mind that it's not just what you buy but how you style it, wear it, or carry it that gives off an air of wealth. Read on to discover 18 inexpensive items you can buy to make you appear rich.

Faux Fur

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Not only is real fur ethically problematic, but it's also extremely expensive. By contrast, faux fur gives the same luxurious affect without harming the animals or breaking the bank. A faux fur coat can add a classy touch to any otherwise plain outfit.

Statement Jewelery

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Even costume jewelry can make you look expensive. Opt for a piece that fits your style and makes a statement to show off your unique taste while giving the illusion of wealth and an appreciation for the finer things in life. You will look willing to invest in high-end fashion accessories, just like the wealthiest in society.

Vintage Watch

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Watches can fetch a very high price, but how many of us have a spare few thousand lying around? Instead, you could go for a vintage watch, leaning into classic glamour at a fraction of the price but still scoring points for an enviable look. Time pieces are timeless for a reason.

Classic White Shirt

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Sometimes, things are a wardrobe staple for a reason. Invest in one single-quality white shirt to last. This piece can go with pretty much any outfit and add significantly to its perceived value. Dress it up or down for work or social occasions, and feel expensive on a budget.

Classic Literature

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Classic, beautifully bound books can be picked up cheap secondhand, online, or in charity shops. Give visitors to your home a sense of old money and intellect and beautiful decor for the home. Plus, you might even like to read them.

Timeless Art Prints

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There is no need to buy expensive originals when you can get prints that are just as beautiful and save a fortune. Pick up a cheap frame second-hand, and before you know it, your home looks luxe and expensive. Prints can be bought online and at fairs, or even print them yourself to save more pennies.

Second-Hand Silk

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Nothing says luxurious like a silk scarf or item of clothing. Get a neutral color, and you can pair it with anything or amplify an outfit without having to spend lots on every element. Check second-hand websites and stores for a sustainable and pocket-friendly option.

Classic Fragrance

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For all genders, a classy fragrance, cologne, or perfume creates a very luxe aura. Fragrances can be very expensive, with designer brands applying their labels and raising the prices exponentially. With a bit of research though, it's easy to find cheaper alternatives that mimic the same scent at a similar quality, for a much more reasonable cost.

Quality Shoes

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Getting a versatile, quality pair of shoes that can go with a wide range of looks is a sure way to make your outfit look more expensive. Rather than having a rack full of pairs of cheap shoes that don't have the lasting power, consider investing in one or two better-quality pairs that will save money in the long run and give your outfits an expensive edge.

Tailored Pieces

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Another example of quality over quantity, a tailored pair of trousers or a jacket might set you back in the first instance, but the amount of wears you are likely to get out of it will more than make up for it. Pieces that are fitted well and made with attention to detail give off an air of luxury that multiple cheaper alternatives can't replicate.

Manicures

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This one may seem like an unnecessary expense, but even an affordable and basic manicure can provide a level of grooming that makes women and men alike look expensive. Often, it's the little things that provide a touch of class, suggest a level of leisure and indulgence, and imply a certain affluence and access to luxury services.

Satin Pillowcases

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Not only does a satin pillowcase elevate your interior design, but it's also an affordable way to take care of your skin and hair without having to opt for expensive facials and hair treatments. Far less abrasive than their cheaper alternatives, silk pillowcases leave skin and hair smooth and supple after a night's sleep.

Personalized Stationary

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Elevate your notebook, pens and paper with a subtle initial or emblem for a hint of luxury at work or generally. You can find inexpensive suppliers online; there is no need to break the bank, but it will certainly give the illusion of expensive taste and the means to enjoy it.

Handmade Soap

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With its artisanal craftsmanship and luxurious ingredients, handmade soap gives off a sense of elegance and refinement. Its bespoke allure exudes sophistication, lending a sense of opulence that enhances your air of wealth.

Bold Sunglasses

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Bold sunglasses exude an aura of confidence and style, often associated with high fashion and luxury brands. Their distinctive design can convey a sense of affluence, suggesting a preference for exclusive and upscale accessories.

Thrift Throws and Pillows

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Another item easily picked up in charity shops and second-hand stores, throws and pillows are an easy way to jazz up your interiors. It is an easy way of accessorizing the home without unnecessary expense. Make your home look more personal and put together at the drop of a hat.

Scented Candles

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Scented candles, particularly those with exotic or rare fragrances, evoke an atmosphere of indulgence and luxury, making any space seem opulent. Their presence suggests a taste for ambiance and an ability to curate an environment that exudes richness and sophistication.

Plant Styling

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You can pick up plants relatively cheaply at supermarkets or from neighbors giving them away. Elevate the ambiance of your home, adding a vacation vibe that definitely gives off a sense of wealth and prosperity. Especially when they are well tended for, and lush, plants exude refinery.

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