Simple Fashion Upgrades That Look Expensive But Aren’t

Growing up, I was never super into fashion and relied on staple clothing. I always liked shopping, but I never cared about trends or trying to stay on top of them. I’m not sure when the switch happened, but one day I woke up, and all of a sudden, I had a newfound love for fashion. I love putting together outfits, and nothing brings me more joy than when someone compliments what I’m wearing. 

Because I went from not caring to caring too much, I had to make a lot of adjustments to my closet. That’s not always the cheapest thing to do. So, I began doing it in increments. I turned to Amazon and found dupes and other pieces that would help me look super trendy without hurting my wallet. From gold jewelry to blazers to handbags to sandals, that site helped me upgrade my wardrobe on a budget. So, if you’re looking to do the same, you’re in luck. These simple upgrades for your clothing basics look far more expensive than they are.

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Elevate Your Outfit With This Layered Necklace

  via Amazon  

Accessorizing is one of the easiest ways to take an outfit to the next level. And while you could buy multiple different gold necklaces to get the layered look, you can also buy this one that’s already 2-in-1. It saves you time and money since the hard work is already done for you.

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Look Grown Up In This Midi Skirt

  via Amazon  

I love midi skirts like this one because they can be worn in multiple different ways. Pair them with a frilly top for a romantic, feminine look. Opt for a graphic tee for a more edgy look. Or throw on a sweater once the temperatures drop and look as cozy as can be.

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Stay Warm This Winter In This Turtleneck Sweater

  via Amazon  

Is it obvious that I am anxiously waiting for fall? I just think the clothes you can wear are much cuter, look more expensive and luxurious, and I thoroughly enjoy not breaking out in a sweat every time I step out my front door. This turtleneck is going to be the first thing I break out when I feel that first chill in the air.

These Shorts Are Easy To Dress Up

  via Amazon  

Shorts are a closet staple. But if you’re trying to upgrade your look, you’re going to want something a little more interesting than denim–like these leather shorts. The cinch waist is extremely flattering on everyone and the leather can be dressed up or down depending on the vibe you want!

This Watch Is Timeless

  via Amazon  

I truly can’t get enough of vintage-inspired gold watches like this one. They help finish off your look with a touch of class. This one is a super affordable option and has earned over 4,000 reviews.

These Pants Can Be Worn In And Out Of The Office

  via Amazon  

Tired of the same boring outfits for work? Want a fashionable change that won’t break the bank? Try out these pants. They have over 26,000 reviews, come in a wide variety of colors, and they’re cute enough to wear in and out of the office. You can head straight to happy hour in these after work and get tons of compliments.

Add A Pop Of Color To Your Wardrobe With This Blazer

  via Amazon  

I’m a firm believer that everyone should have at least one blazer in their closet. I have about five in mine. If you have yet to get one or you want to expand your collection, this one is a must. I mean, who wouldn’t want a hot pink blazer? But if that’s too much color for you, don’t worry. It also comes in plenty of neutral shades too.

You’re Never Going To Want To Take These Slippers Off

  via Amazon  

Throw away those beat-up slippers that you’ve had for years and get these instead. They aren’t wildly expensive like some brands, and they’re just downright adorable. Not to mention the open-toe design is breathable, which means they keep your feet cool so you can wear them all year round.

This Purse Looks Way More Expensive Than It Is

  via Amazon  

I’ve had my eye on this purse for months now because of how simple yet chic it is. It’s a purse that can truly match any outfit you pair it with, and because it has a classic silhouette, you never have to worry about it going out of style. This means you can use it over and over for years.

This Jacket Is Identical To One From Free People

  via Amazon  

I love all things Free People. But… I don’t love their price tags. I’ve searched high and low to find some cute dupes, and this jacket is by far one of my favorite finds. It’s almost identical to the one they sell but for a fraction of the price.

Stay Warm With This Puffer Jacket

  via Amazon  

It may just be me, but there’s something about puffer vests that take your winter look to the next level despite it being such an item of staple clothing. Wearing a sweater and want to look truly put together? Just throw this on top! It screams snow bunny headed to the slopes for a day of skiing.

Take Your Flip Flop Game Up A Notch With These Sandals

  via Amazon  

Flip-flops are easy to throw on when you’re running out of the house, but they’re not the most aesthetically pleasing shoe. In fact, they can often look really beat up and cheap. But not anymore. These sandals from Sam Edleman still slip on with ease but add a touch of glam to your day.

These Sneakers Are Lightweight

  via Amazon  

Speaking of clothing basics, having a good pair of sneakers to wear out and about is another closet must-have. They should be lightweight, comfortable, and great for both working out and running errands. These check all of those boxes. Not to mention the fact that they’re crazy affordable.

These Sunglasses Look Designer Without The High Price Tag

  via Amazon  

I would absolutely love to be able to afford designer pieces. But unfortunately, I can’t. I’m not too upset about it though since Amazon has dupes like these sunglasses. They look exactly like ones you may have seen from a well-known designer, but these won’t cost you the earth.

These Trousers Are An Inexpensive Aritzia Dupe

  via Amazon  

I’m not sure when it happened, but trousers like this became an everyday article of staple clothing. Long gone are the days of wearing them just to the office. I’m not upset about it, because they’re adorable! Rock these to your next business meeting or pair them with sneakers for a weekend coffee run.

This Purse Is A Great Basic That Will Last You Years

  via Amazon  

If you haven’t noticed by now, a lot of things that are fashionable now are very reminiscent of things that were hot in the 90s. And this stylish bag is just another one of those. The hobo style reminds me of one that I carried when I was younger, and I love that it’s coming back. It’s such a great everyday purse.

This Cardigan Is Super Versatile

  via Amazon  

Can we just take a second to appreciate how soft this cardigan looks? It may be 100 degrees in some places, still, but you can bet that I am buying this one as soon as the weather cools down. It’s super chic, keeps you warm, and is the perfect layering piece for the season.

Dress Up Your Outfits With These Heels

  via Amazon  

These heels are going to have you asking, “Valentino who?” For a fraction of the price, you get the studded look that designer is famous for. It’s such a fun statement shoe that looks great paired with jeans, skirts, and dresses.

This Bodysuit Is A Closet Staple

  via Amazon  

There are many high-end boutiques that are selling square-neck bodysuits just like this one. And they are incredibly chic. But spending tons of money on a staple clothing item like a bodysuit is a bit absurd. That’s why you can count on Amazon with finds like this one. It’s comfortable, beautifully soft, and flattering on every body type.

No One Will Even Know This Ring Is Fake

  via Amazon  

Do these rings look familiar? You may have seen the ones that are similar that cost you thousands. That’s right, thousands. To achieve the look for (much) less, get these instead. They are sophisticated and would look killer with that gold watch I mentioned earlier.

Show Off Your Curves In These Faux Leather Leggings

  via Amazon  

When you’re tired of looking too casual in leggings, but you still want the comfort, throw on these faux-leather options. They’re just as comfortable as the fabric leggings you are used to wearing, but they’re super trendy.

This Purse Will Save You Thousands

  via Amazon  

Can you tell that I am all about dupes? Well, I’ve got another one for you. This quilted bag looks very similar to one from Bottega. It just won’t cost you over $3,000. Rock the blue or pink for a pop of color or stick to white for a more neutral look.

Get Dolled Up With This Midi Skirt

  via Amazon / Lauren Fuquay  

There’s something about silk that just screams expensive–even if it’s not. And this midi skirt does just that. The leopard is perfect for when you want to show off your (classy) wild side, but it also comes in a stunning rust orange and classic black. It’s such an easy way to get dolled up.

This Blouse Is The Perfect Amount Of Feminine

  via Amazon  

I have seen so many shirts like this on my Pinterest feed lately, but I had no idea where I could get one for myself. So to say that I was excited to come across this one is an understatement. It makes me think of galavanting around a field of wildflowers–talk about whimsical.

Button Downs Like This Are All The Rage Right Now

  via Amazon  

Linen screams luxury. And this button-down helps you achieve the look without having to pay a ridiculous amount. Wear it open over a tank for a laidback “it girl” look, or wear it buttoned up and tucked in for a professional look: perfect for the office.

This Purse Is A Great Statement Piece

  via Amazon  

When you don’t want to wear an outlandishoutfit, but you still want to be the star of the show, this purse is the accessory you need. One look, and there’s no denying it’s a statement piece. But it’s not just super cute. It’s also functional, giving you plenty of space for your essentials.

Get Ready For Fall With This Shawl

  via Amazon  

Color-changing leaves, pumpkin spice everything, and cooler temps are right around the corner. Which means it’s time to start thinking about your fall wardrobe. This shawl is a great place to start. It keeps you cozy without being too warm and can be layered with lots of different tops. It also comes in some seriously adorable plaid patterns.

Rock A Business Casual Look With This Pencil Skirt

  via Amazon  

I know I’ve listed a lot of business casual pieces, but most of them you can wear outside of the office. But, sometimes you just need clothing basics that are great for the office and the office only–like this pencil skirt. It’s a chic way to look professional that won’t hurt your wallet.

I Wear These Sandals Nonstop

  via Amazon  

Dolce Vita can really do no wrong. I mean how cute are these sandals? The platform heel isn’t super high, so they’re still comfortable, but it’s enough to get you in on the trend. And the four neutral colors are easy to pair with pretty much everything.

How Chic Is This Blouse?

  via Amazon  

This blouse is one that you’re never going to want to take off. That’s because you can wear it to work and then unfasten one or two buttons and rock it out for drinks with your coworkers after five. It also comes in a ton of fun patterns and stunning solid hues.

This Bracelet Is An Easy Way To Accessorize

  via Amazon  

I’ve included every kind of jewelry imaginable on this list, so of course, I had to add this gold link bracelet. It would be the perfect arm candy to go along with your new gold watch. Or you can wear it on its own for an understated look.

This Hat Matches Every Outfit Imaginable

  via Amazon  

I will forever be a diehard hat fan. I think they’re such a versatile accessory that can completely transform an outfit. Not to mention they’re great to wear when your hair is not at its best. Rather than spending a fortune on one, get this great value option from Amazon instead.

Look Chic On The Beach With This Swim Skirt

  via Amazon  

Okay, so this is technically a swim skirt, but I definitely ordered it to wear around town when I want something a little sexy and playful. However, it’s super cute to wear to the beach or pool when you want a little extra coverage, too.

I Ordered This Dress The Minute I Saw It

  via Amazon  

Every time I’m scrolling through Amazon, I come across this dress. And every single time I see it, I’m so glad I ordered it. It’s the perfect dress to wear as summer transitions into fall, and I love that it can be dressed up with some heels or worn with booties for a more casual look

This Long Sleeve Tee Is Silky Soft

  via Amazon  

Long sleeve tees are a closet staple when the weather cools. But if you want to take it up a notch, consider one with a mock-neck like this one. The difference is subtle, but it makes a world of a difference. It looks more expensive when in reality it’s not.

Rock This Dress To Your Next Formal Event

  via Amazon  

Whether you’ve got a wedding, a business meeting with important clients, or a formal dinner, this dress is a great option when you need to get a little dressed up. It has a subtle vintage feel, and the tailored cut at the waist hugs your curves in all the right places. It also comes in 19 colors so you have a ton of options.

This Duster Is The Epitome Of Comfortable

  via Amazon  

Last but not least is another cardigan. Sorry, not sorry. With over 15,000 reviews and a 4.5-star ratingit’s the perfect addition to your staple clothing options. It helps dress up a rather simple outfit in a subtle way, which is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your clothing basicswithout breaking the bank.