How to Create an Elevated Look for Less

There is no denying the elevated style of brands like The Row, Khaite, and Nili Lotan. The effortlessness of their designs compel me to create Pinterest boards filled with coveted images of financially unattainable outfits.

The good news is that in this day and age, accessible fashion allows us to indulge in the look of high-end styles without intimidating price tags. At the same time, we don’t want to fill our closets with fast fashion. There is something to be said about acquiring quality pieces that earn their price tag through cost per wear. The key is in the mix.

Let’s look at the timeless staple … the white button-down shirt. H&M offers a version of this classic for less than $30. Since this is an essential piece in your wardrobe, we stylists consider fabric that wears well, and a tailored design. That’s why we often recommend this button-down poplin shirt from Theory for $250 because of its curved hem and back darts for a better fit. The splurge may be the better call because you’ll wear this shirt for years.

On the other hand, there are so many versions of loafers, that unless you adore the horsebit embellishment on the platform pair from Gucci for $1100, save the dollars and find a mid-range pair like the M.Gemi Elsa shoe for $298.

Jeans can obviously be found at both price ranges. You can snag a great pair from Levi’s, like these Ribcage boot jeans for $98 - a lot less than designer brands. It’s the focus on fit, cut, and finishes of higher-end versions that ensure an elevated look. Though Levi’s will always have a place in my closet (and heart), this is where I tend to spend, since jeans stand the test of time and can be worn so many different ways. This high-rise pair from Khaite for $440 is designed to visually elongate the legs and flatter with a stovepipe silhouette with structured denim infused with stretch for flexibility and recovery. The enameled button of antiqued brass is a bonus.

As for trends, it’s about birds of a feather this season. Lapointe offers an exquisite blazer trimmed in feathers for over 2 thousand dollars. If you want the feathery “in” look for less, try Zara’s version in pink with feather cuffs for $169 or, better yet, this pale pink button-down shirt version of the feathered sleeve from J.Crew that goes with everything for $198.

Color can also be trendy. Pink is having a major moment by showing up everywhere like full on head-to-toe suiting like this stunning blazer and pantsuit from Alexander McQueen on sale for $1,600. We found a similar pantsuit with flared legs and one button blazer in Italian city wool from J.Crew (again) on sale for less than $300. If you’re indulging in one of the more ephemeral trends of the season, I suggest choosing clothing in mid-range prices unless you’re planning on wearing hot pink for more than the duration of the current color craze.

Price should never be an obstacle to great style. It’s all in how you put the pieces together.

Looking for a little help deciding where to spend your dollars and how to create an elevated look for less, just let us know. We can also show you how to mix high end with lower priced pieces for a luxe look on the daily. As always, we’re here to help!