mixing high and low fashion

To me, the ideal outfit looks expensive, but costs under $100. I’ll typically wear one item of clothing that is a bit more pricey to add that “chicness” to my look. This is my favorite way to dress and also build a lasting wardrobe without breaking the bank 😉 Not many of us actually have tons of money to blow on clothes, so a balance of high and low fashion items is essential!

*This post may contain affiliate links. All content and opinions expressed are my own.*

Mixing high and low fashion pinterest post

Shop smarter, not harder.

You do not have to spend a ton of money to look chic, put together, expensive…whatever. You just need to know where to shop, and what to buy. Here are some posts I’ve written talking about my favorite places to shop regardless of your budget:

The best way to make mixing high and low fashion work, is to have a few higher quality key pieces in your wardrobe. These can really be anything, it’s based on your own personal style. For example, I would probably choose a nice dress, a quality pair of jeans, and a blazer. These pieces are super versatile and if you stick to a color coordinated wardrobe, they’ll go with everything. For more deets on my wardrobe basics, read this post here.

Again, you don’t have to spend a ton of money. Stores like Saks off 5th and Nordstrom Rack are a great start for discounted high fashion brands. Also, start small if budget is a concern by shopping the extra clearance or sticking to under $50 or $100.

mixing high and low fashion
mixing high and low fashion

Mixing High and Low Fashion – General Tips

When it comes to putting together an outfit where you’re coordinating high and low end pieces, here are some general tips that help me!

  1. Your high fashion piece should be the focal point. Stay away from spending a ton of money on non-statement pieces like jewelry, belts, and accessories. The high-end piece should stand out, and if it’s too small, it just won’t. EXAMPLE: Here I’m wearing a statement dress (silk, sea foam green color, it stands out) that I purchased at Sloan Boutique for under $100. I paired it with these sunglasses from Amazon that cost around $20, and these Marc Fisher strappy sandals that I got on clearance for around $40.
  2. Try not to go overboard with labels. I’m all for a LV tote or a Gucci belt, but the other day I was having margaritas with E and we saw this guy walk by in literally all Gucci. Gucci belt, sunglasses, baseball hat…they all matched, but it was just too much. If you like that style, definitely stick to just one item per outfit!
  3. Pay attention to the fabric. I love a good jeans and tee outfit, but cotton t-shirts are one of the most inexpensive items you can buy. I wouldn’t necessarily spend a ton of money on a statement t-shirt, because at that point, you’re paying for the label, not for the quality of the item. Instead, if I really wanted a name brand t-shirt, I’d probably try and find it thrifted.

Outfit ideas for you!

If your high-end piece is a summer dress…

Easy! Strappy sandals and a clutch for evening; slides and a crossbody for day!

If your high-end piece is a purse…

This can be trickier. Ever see someone with just an odd outfit but a really expensive purse? Yeah, you don’t wanna be that! Keep it simple with nice jeans and a blouse for day, and a LBD or jumpsuit for night.

If your high-end piece is a pair of shoes…

Try a monochrome outfit to pull the eyes down to your statement piece!

mixing high and low fashion
mixing high and low fashion

You definitely do not have to spend a ton of money on clothes in order to look great. I haven’t shopped for myself in months (partly due to COVID, and also I just don’t feel like spending money on things I don’t really need). But, if you’re looking to up your style game and add luxury to your wardrobe, mixing high and low fashion is a great way to do it! Do you own any favorite high end pieces? Let me know in the comments!

xo,

B

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