I Won't Go Near Basics With These Cheap-Looking Details

One of my fellow WWW editors recently wrote about why she’ll never buy shoes with excess hardware for risk of them looking cheap. And you know what, it really got me thinking. What I realized is that I actually tend to avoid basics (which is what makes up the majority of my wardrobe) that have very specific design details as well because they skew somewhat cheap to me. To highlight further, I rounded up the culprits that can make staple items like jeans and sweaters feel chintzy. I also shopped out high-end-feeling iterations of each of the basics in question. Oh, and because an expensive-looking outfit doesn’t have to actually be expensive, everything highlighted below rings in under $100.

Jeans

While I like a little stretch in my jeans for comfort, I don’t like excess stretch because the denim can then appear a bit too flimsy and unsubstantial for my liking. My perfect formula is either 100% cotton, or 99% cotton and 1% to 2% elastane.

Sweaters

Thin cashmere sweaters are undoubtedly glorious, but if I’m shopping for a more affordable cotton pick, I tend stick to more heavy-duty, thicker knits. It always feels just slightly off to me to have my undershirt shape show through the sweater, creating awkward ripples.

Blazers

I’m all for a tailored silhouette for an expensive-looking vibe, but I’m not into those super-tight, shorter blazers. A slightly slouchier style that’s a bit longer feels more elevated and modern to me at the moment.

Black Booties

In line with what my fellow WWW editor covered recently, I specifically tend to skip basic black boots that feature shiny accents like studs and zippers that are too in your face. A streamlined style (even the under-$50 picks out there) just feels so much more luxe.

Next, check out more cheap wardrobe staples to buy when you want to look chic.