As you guys know from watching my styling videos on Youtube, one of the things I always say is to stay chic! To be honest with you guys, I’m a huge believer in working with the pieces that you have already in your closet and investing your money into versatile and quality basics. A little tip for you guys .. you don’t need to own expensive things to look expensive! (Mind blowing .. I know.) Whether it’s wearing the perfect shade of lipstick or getting your trousers tailored, there are plenty of tips and tricks you can do to appear more effortless and expensive! Today I’ll be sharing with you all 11 tips to look expensive !

1. Structured Bag

Every season I always splurge on a nice bag for myself. This season it was my beautiful white Celine bag! Although yes this purse was a bit pricy, I think that the structure of this bag makes it look even more expensive and elegant. (More affordable options below!) Whether it’s a large or small bag, there’s nothing more expensive looking than a structured bag! They’re chic and timeless. I like to buy structured bags in neutral colors like black, white or tan because they’re the kind of colors that can transcend seasons and only get better with age! I can’t wait to hand down my bags to Chloe when she get older, but it seems like she’s already got her bag game on point hah!

2. Little Black Dress (LBD)

A little black dress is one of those things that will never go out of style. It’s sleek, slimming, and is one of those pieces you should always have in your closet. From a preppy every day dress to a classy work dress, you can never have too many LBDs! When buying a little black dress, I like to get one with interesting and unique details like texture or an unconventional neckline for a spin on the classic look. See more options below!

3. Tailored Pieces

The cut of a pant leg is a detail that often gets overlooked but it can make all the difference in your silhouette! Everyone’s bodies are a shaped differently, so sometimes it’s hard to find pants that can fit you perfectly. That’s where a tailor can come in! When you have clothing that fits you, you instantly look more expensive! For example, these black and white trousers are from Forever 21 (similar option here!) but I won’t tell if you won’t!

4. Camel Coat

Come Fall, my favorite thing to do is to pull out the coats. When it comes to coats, there’s nothing that looks more expensive than a structured camel coat! There’s something about this color that makes an outfit instantly feel elevated and expensive. A camel coat is a timeless piece that I always come back to every season. (As seen here while on the streets in Paris!)

5. Turtleneck

The elongating neckline and the knitted texture of turtlenecks have a way of making a girl look instantly chic! Although I’m already tall, when I wear turtlenecks I definitely feel like it’s made me grown two inches! Chunky knits are one of the best things about welcoming the new fall season, but I definitely recommend you guys investing in a few turtlenecks for this season! Knits come in different weights, and I find that this Stella McCartney knit is definitely on the cozier side (perfect for fall in Europe!) but in LA, this sleeveless turtleneck from Ann Taylor is a must have!

6. Neck Scarf

In case it wasn’t totally obvious from my 7 ways to tie a scarf video, donning the neck scarf is my newest obsession! This simple accessory can make all the difference in elevating your outfit and add a touch of sophistication to your look. I’ve been finding that a cute neck scarf is a simple and easy way to make a simple outfit like this one look instantly more put together! Have you guys gotten on this trend yet?

7. Pull Your Sleeve Out

This is probably one of my oldest trick that I’ve been using for the past few years as you can tell from the photos! This is such a simple way to add texture to your outfit. You can use this tip anytime you wear a coat/blazer to get a more layered look. All you have to pull down your top’s sleeve under down past your jacket sleeve to have a bit of the fabric peek out as it’s a great way to add dimension and interest to your outfit!

8. When in Doubt, Wear White

As I’ve been becoming less and less colorful in my wardrobe, the most simple and effective look I tend to go for now is wearing all white! Two days ago I attended the La Mer event and I wore this amazing all white jumpsuit by Tina Turk. It’s such a simple way to look very put together, and if you add in a statement necklace it can make the look very strong! So in case you guys don’t have an all white jumpsuit for when you’re in a styling pinch, I highly recommend having that as a secret weapon in your closet! And don’t forget to wear nude undergarments when wearing an all white look!

9. White Button Down

I hope you guys aren’t sick of me constantly telling you guys about the versatility of a white button down! It works for casual outfits and can look professional in an instant. Button-downs, whether more detailed like this eyelet top or just a simple crisp white button down can instantly make an outfit look more expensive. One thing you have to keep in mind when wearing a white button down is to make sure it’s steamed or ironed! Wrinkles never look good. Or you can be like me and steal your hubby’s button downs hah!

10. Black Pointed-Toed Shoes

I think a really easy way to look expensive and very intentional with the pieces you buy is to wear pointed black toed shoes! The great thing about this is that they can easily be dressed up or down. I love versatility in my pieces, so I can’t tell you how much these black flats from Aska Collection has made running errands and taking meetings in the city much easier! Do you guys have a staple pair of black pointed flats or heels? (Because you do need one of each!) Check out my picks below!

11. Red Lip

Last but certainly not least, look expensive by finishing off your look with a bold red lip! I never leave the house without a lip on. Just an extra little step can make the world of difference! A red lip is instantly sexy and bold, and with a touch of confidence, people will be wondering what’s different about you .. in a good way of course! I love the Russian Red from Mac because it’s a very long lasting matte color and I always get lots of compliments on it!

There you have it, my 11 tips for looking more expensive! Hope you guys keep these tips in your back pocket for when you get ready! Do you have any fool proof tips and tricks that you use? Let me know in the comments below!