Mastering the High/Low Game How to look expensive... on a budget

Let’s face it… we all have financial commitments, goals and priorities that make splurging on luxury items of clothing irresponsible and foolhardy, but the look… what we wouldn’t give for the look.
I’ve got great news for you! You can attain the look… you can look like you’re dressing expensively, while maintaining your current budget. By following the ten steps outlined below, you will be mastering the high/low dressing game in record time.

Replace your hardware .
One of the easiest and most economical ways to change the look of an average, basic outfit is to replace the buttons. Take a blazer purchased at a popular clothing store, for instance and you will find that the buttons are often cheap and generic. Replace these with gold or silver buttons, perhaps, and watch that blazer come to life..

Get some structure.
Nothing lends itself more to the “expensive look” than a structured bag. The clean lines and hardware spell elegance, class and wealth. Victoria Beckham has mastered this beautifully. Whether she is carrying a clutch, handbag or tote, she is rarely without a structured bag..

Tailor your garments.
I simply cannot place enough emphasis on the importance of fit when it comes to how you look. An ill fitted item of clothing will distract from any look you want to portray, expensive or otherwise. One of the hard facts of life is that you will hardly find a reasonably priced garment giving you a perfect fit. It will therefore, serve you in good stead to nurture a good relationship with a seamstress or tailor. You will be. surprised to note how far a little hem, nip, dart and tuck will go..

Black, White or Monochromatic.
When it comes to the expensive look, there are no two colours that exude wealth and opulence more than black and white. All black or all white looks are classic and timeless and effortless… all characteristics that go hand in hand with affluence and luxury. Monochromatic looks also give off a moneyed vibe, so any single colour scheme on a simple ensemble or outfit will definitely do the trick..

Take care of your footwear.
There is nothing that says “cheap” more to me than the sound of a high heel that has lost its tip. Coming a close second, is a dirty pair of shoes. Whether heels or flats, the shoes you wear the most should get the most care and attention. In addition to cleaning, brushing and/or polishing on a regular basis, locating a reliable cobbler should be on your to do list..

Take care of your clothes.
Similarly, taking care of your clothes will free up any disposable income you may have to invest in and add new pieces to your wardrobe, instead of replacing old ones. You are, after all, on a budget. Pay special attention to labels which advise how particular items of clothing should be laundered. Use gentle detergents and steam when necessary..

Invest in statement accessories.
Statement accessories are a smart, inexpensive way of adding life and vibrancy to an otherwise ordinary, average outfit. Choose pieces that are classy, timeless and enduring, that can be worn over and over without fading or losing colour and texture. Wearing the same statement accessory repeatedly will give off the impression that it is valuable..

Elevate your casual look.
There are times when the occasion calls for a casual look. Unfortunately, too many of us.
interpret this to mean that it is okay to slack off where proper grooming is concerned. Casual does not mean messy and unkempt. Ensuring that you are polished while donning a casual outfit will help create the “expensive look” that you’re going for. International fashionista and style icon, Olivia Palermo is known for her polished, casual looks..

Style not Fashion.
I would like to close with the final tip, which is to concentrate on great style as opposed to fashion. It is easy to get caught up with what’s trending at any particular point in time, but, I have found, that the women whose looks embody the “expensive look” take little notice of trends. Instead, they focus on great style and what looks good on them, fit well, and flatters their body types. In the words of Coco Chanel,
“Fashion changes, but style endures”.