How to Look Rich on a Budget

No One Has to Know It's Not Designer Head-to-Toe

Jan 7, 2009 Sara Gray

The key to looking rich and elegant isn't buying everything a top-end boutiques. Who could afford that? Try these tips to always pair expensive-looking outfits.

In the world of fashion, it's not so hard to always look like your outfit cost an arm and a leg – it's just a matter of learning the strategies behind finding and wearing what looks the richest.

Hone Your Shopping Stamina

The best way to find actual designer clothing and accessories is to shop until you drop – but not where you think. You can find designer pieces at places like Nordstrom Rack and Ross very easily; it just takes a little digging. Wait for sales to get while the getting's good, and go with patience so that you're ready to dig through rounder after rounder until you find the right thing.

When it comes to buying designer goods, really make your buck count. Hardly anyone can afford to clothe themselves in designer digs from head-to-toe, so be strategic about what you pick. Don't buy a T-shirt because of the label – buy standout pieces like tailored jackets, handbags and accessories. They should be pieces that are versatile enough to match with different colors and styles, but strong enough to stand out in an outfit.

Mix Low-brow With High-brow

Layering is a key to looking rich. Start with high-quality, but not expensive, pieces like cotton T-shirts and solid dark pants or skirts. Start with this basic and solid foundation, and then the fun layering begins. Layer on a jacket, vest or other top piece to add texture and shape to the outfit, plus to add patterns and more visual interest to your ensemble.

Mixing designer items with standard items or even vintage items can make for a very rich look, as well – and vintage goods are one-of-a-kind and can really be a unique way to make a statement.

Making an outfit from mostly bargain items can look very rich, but the key is to include one stand-out, designer or rich-looking item that will grab attention. People can't look at you long enough to appreciate more than one standout piece anyway!

Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize

Another key to looking rich and put-together is to accessorize. Try grouping together a stack of bold metallic bracelets, or wrapping your neck in a cascading collection of jewels. Even a classy string of pearls, while simple, can make you look like a million bucks.

Match a handbag (which can count as your standout item) with your outfit to complete your look, and don't forget to match things like headbands or ribbons, plus shoes.

Accessorizing doesn't just mean piling on the accessories, either – make sure you have a good haircut that's fixed well and simple, classy makeup to complete your look and make heads turn.

The copyright of the article How to Look Rich on a Budget in Women’s Fashion is owned by Sara Gray. Permission to republish How to Look Rich on a Budget in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.