8 Ways to Make Any Outfit Look Expensive on a Budget, According to Celeb Stylists

Everyone wants to dress like their favorite celebrity, right? Well, doing so doesn’t necessarily mean you have to spend your next mortgage payment on the latest designer clothes and sneakers. In fact, dressing expensive has never been easier. We asked two celebrity stylists to share their expert advice for looking luxe—without breaking the bank. From mastering monochrome outfits to investing in versatile staples, here’s how you can elevate your wardrobe on a budget.

Stick to Neutral and Classic Colors

For Alexandre Querol, YOUTH OF PARIS founder and celebrity stylist for famous clients like Juice WRLD, Trippie Redd, and Rich The Kid, neutral shades like black, white, beige, and navy are key to looking sophisticated.

“Neutrals always look sophisticated because they’re timeless and versatile,” Querol explains. “These tones are less likely to show wear and tear, and they tend to pair well together, making even simple outfits feel elevated.” He adds that bright colors can be fun, but too many at once can look too “trendy or chaotic,” rather than refined.

Find Your Fit

When it comes to dressing expensive, fit is everything. Choosing clothes that complement your body and frame can make all the difference in creating a polished, put-together look.

“An inexpensive blazer that hugs your shoulders and cinches at the waist will look far more expensive than a designer one that’s too baggy or tight,” Querol says. “Tailoring small details like sleeve length or pant hems instantly adds polish.”

Shop Secondhand or Vintage

One of the best ways to find quality fashion without breaking the bank is to shop secondhand or vintage fashion. “Vintage coats, leather shoes, and tailored trousers often have better construction than fast fashion,” Querol notes. “With a little patience, you can find gems that look designer for a fraction of the price.”

Invest in Quality Basics

For celebrity stylist and founder of KNALL3R, Michael Reynaert, building a solid foundation of essential pieces is key. “I would recommend spending the most on a good pair of good shoes and pants—without that you won’t have a good base,” Reynaert says. 

Investing in quality basics means you’ll always have reliable pieces to build outfits around, making it easier to mix and match with less expensive pieces while still maintaining a polished look. Plus, the right shoes and a pair well-fitted pants can instantly elevate even the simplest of looks.

Opt for Timeless Pieces

When assembling your wardrobe, investing in timeless pieces is a smart way to ensure your wardrobe stays in style season after season. These items not only look sophisticated and professional but also offer endless styling possibilities and can be a reliable foundation for any outfit.

According to Querol, trendy clothes can quickly look dated or mass-produced, while timeless staples like a white shirt, dark jeans, or a camel coat never go out of style. “These items hold their value visually and can be styled endlessly without needing constant replacements.”

Go Monochrome

One of the simplest ways to elevate your outfit is by sticking to a single color palette. Monochrome looks not only feel intentional, but also give off an effortlessly put-together vibe.

“A monochromatic outfit always looks cohesive and refined and creates a streamlined silhouette that reads expensive,” says Querol. “Wearing different shades of the same color also adds depth and sophistication without relying on trendy patterns or bold branding.”

DIY Fashion Pieces

For Reynaert, DIY fashion became a creative way to enhance his personal style without spending a fortune. In his early teen years, when he didn’t have much money to spend on clothes, Reynaert would DIY his own creations as a way to look more expensive and express his own unique aesthetic. Think: Creating your own crop top or fraying jean hems.

Layer Intentionally

Proper layering is a great way to add dimension and sophistication to any look. The goal is to create a balanced look where each layer complements the others, rather than overwhelming your silhouette.

Start with well-fitted basics like a tee or button-down, then build up with pieces that add structure or texture. It’s important to be mindful of the proportions, materials, and patterns of the garments you’re putting together to ensure the outfit flows seamlessly.