With the demands of life and family, splurging on the latest designer threads might be the last thing on our shopping list. Especially with new designs and iterations pumped out each season, it can be an unsustainable lifestyle to follow.
The catch: You don’t always need to pay top dollars to look stylish and expensive. In fact, fast fashion labels such as Zara, Mango and H&M are great places to score the latest seasonal trends.
Another tip we can give you is to avoid spending too much on basics and wardrobe staples. These versatile classics won’t be the focus of the ensemble and others would probably not be able to tell between a $400 Margiela and a $15 Uniqlo white T-shirt.
Focus on quality when you’re going high street and ensure that the seams and hems are well sewn. Moreover, check that lightweight fabrics such as cotton aren’t too see-through and that the pieces don’t crease or pucker in an ugly manner.
Finally, do experiment with layering. It’s an efficient and effective way to add personality and jazz up any outfit.
Here, we show you five under-$300 looks that are suitable for any event on your calendar. Read on for some serious style inspiration.
Total damage done: $267.30
For a dinner and dance organised by your company, keep in mind that you’ll have to look refined and polished – nothing too risque or revealing as you’ll still in a professional setting.
Pick out a dress that’s structural and holds its shape like this strapless cape back maxi dress from Asos. Not only is it elegant and looks expensive, it’s also appropriate for formal or professional events and settings. Opt for a tonal look overall, with jewellery and shoes in the same gold or cream colour scheme so that you’ll look put together.
Iridescent Pearl Earrings, $29.90, from Zara; My Accessories London Exclusive Half Moon Clutch Bag With Ring Handle, $40.76, from Asos; Asos Design Strapless Cape Back Maxi Dress, $101.90, from Asos; Metal Bracelet, $29.90, from Zara; Asos Design Wide Fit Winner Mid Heeled Court Shoes In Rose Gold Glitter, $64.84, from Asos
Total damage done: $267.18
To immediately look more regal, look towards fabrics in more luxe options such as satin or jacquard. This strapless metallic silver mini dress has a layered design that drapes elegantly to create a classy finish, and it’ll definitely serve you well for your next cocktail party.
Team it with dazzling statement earrings, a matching choker, white lace-up high heels, and an on-trend micro-bag for extra style points.
Bejewelled Earrings, $39.90, from Zara; Public Desire Clarity White Clear Heel Ankle Tie Court Shoes, $55.56, from Asos; Halston Heritage Strapless Layered Metallic Jacquard Mini Dress, US$50 (S$68.47), from The Outnet; Kingsley Ryan Exclusive Gold Plated Delicate Chain Choker, $33.35, from Asos; Blue Collection Glitter Mini Crossbody Bag, S$69.90, from Zara
Total damage done: $256.88
Racking your brains on what to wear for your next garden party? The theme you’re looking at is dressy resortwear, so your best bet would be a billowy floral dress or jumpsuit.
One trick to having an outfit that looks way more expensive than it really is: Wearing trend-centric items style influencers seem to be obsessed with at the moment. In this case, opt for sculptural statement earrings, sculptural heeled mules and a woven bag with this stunning halter neck floral dress and you’re all set.
Embossed Earring, $29.90, from Mango; Handmade Crochet Bag, $19.90, from Mango; Dark Pink Halterneck Maxi Dress In Allover Floral, $138.95, from Asos; Geometric Heeled Leather Shoe, $45.90, from Mango; Pieces Pearl Gold Marble Clip Multipack, $22.23. from Asos
Total damage done: $239.44
This plunge neck wide-leg jumpsuit from influencer-favourite brand Revolve’s Gen-Z targeted retailer Superdown is sure to be an Instagram hit.
It’s also very au courant (hello, snakeskin print!). Style it with a pair of crocodile effect mules, a ‘90s shoulder bag, statement sunnies and a pair of modern wooden-shaped earrings.
Jana Wood Statement Drop Earring, US$14.99 (S$20.80), from Urban Outfitters; Shoe Buckle Croc-effect, $44.90, from Mango; Superdown Yasmin Halter Jumpsuit, $92.21, from Revolve; Acetate Frame Sunglasses, $39.90, from Mango; Crocodile Baguette Bag, US$30 (S$41.63), from Urban Outfitters
Total damage done: $233.54
A satin mini dress with subtle sculptural detail, such as this one-shoulder number from Asos, looks contemporary, sleek, and way pricier than it is.
Wear it with complementary pops of colour to add dimension to your look. A deep burgundy mini croc-effect crossbody bag and dark blue jewellery will elevate your ensemble and help you stand out. Anchor this look with a pair of chic white ankle boots.
Semi Precious Stone Earrings, $29.90, from Mango; Ankle Boots, HK$399 (S$69.90), from H&M; Asos Design Mini Dress With One Shoulder In Satin, $64.84, from Asos; Stone Pendants Necklace, $29.90, from Mango; Crocodile Print Mini Bag, $39, from Pomelo
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Text: Michelle Yeoh/Her World.