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65 Cheap, Flattering Basics That Actually Look Expensive
65 Cheap, Flattering Basics That Actually Look Expensive

These wardrobe-building pieces are a must.

Written by Veronika Kero
Amazon
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When you grab any of the staple basics below, you’re not just getting any old top, skirt, jacket, or pair of pants for a low price. Each item is elevated in design and feel for an expensive look that will have all your friends asking you where you scored your outfit.

01A Button-Down Cardigan With An Old-Money Vibe

Whether it’s the patch pockets or crisp striped trim, this button-down cardigan is undeniably sophisticated. The shiny gold buttons add to its appeal. Pair it with absolutely anything and you’re bound to feel amazing.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 6

02A Sweater Dress With Standout Ribbing

This sweater dress will provide warmth all the way from its turtleneck collar to its asymmetrical hem. Meanwhile, the clean ribbed pattern is noticeable no matter which color you choose. And if all that isn’t enough to catch your eye, the slanted buttons certainly will be.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 5

03A Lacy Long-Sleeve Top That Feels Silky-Smooth

This lace-trimmed long-sleeve shirt proves that you can keep things simple yet still look dressed up. The floral lace along the V-shaped neckline will act as the only accessory you need and its silky-smooth fabric will keep you comfortable all day long. It’s also super stretchy for a comfy yet slim-fit look.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 3

04Soft Cotton Pull-On Jeans With An On-Trend Silhouette

These pull-on jeans are the ultimate cheat code. You won’t have to deal with any zippers, and since they’re made of soft cotton, and they sit high on the waist so that you can choose between various tops.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 13

05A Preppy Sweater Vest With A Unique Cut

There’s nothing like a sweater vest to give yourself an effortlessly polished look. This one is better than most thanks to its unique hemline that adds some shape to the boxy piece. It’s also slightly cropped so that it falls perfectly over a high-waisted pair of jeans.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 10

06A Lace Mock-Neck Top With An Optional Camisole

You’ll feel like the hottest one in the room when wearing this lace top that has a surprisingly high-end feel. It has a mock neck, elegant keyhole closure in the back, and slightly puffed sleeves for a dramatic touch. And to keep it from being completely see-through, it comes with a matching camisole.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 17

07A Pleated Midi Skirt That’s Reversible

This pleated midi skirt is even more of a deal than it originally seems because its reversible design essentially gives you two pieces in one. On the other side of the gray stripes is a solid deep brown. Both are easy to match tops to. The piece is also pretty heavy, making it a perfect way to switch up your winter wardrobe.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 2

08A Knit Set For A Clean-Girl Look

To look completely put together without much effort, add this matching set to your cart. Both the buttoned crewneck and wide-leg pants are made of a soft knit that will keep you feeling cozy as you enjoy a relaxed night at home. The duo is also cute enough to wear out — simply pair the outfit with sneakers or warm boots and you’ll be all set.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 16

09Sparkling Gold-Plated Hoops That Come In 3 Finishes

Stunning cubic zirconia crystals cover these gold-plated hoop earrings for plenty of shine. They’ll catch the light every time you make even the slightest movement and that’s exactly why they’re the only accessory you’ll need. They’re also free of lead and nickel, making them hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin. Choose from a yellow gold, rose gold, or silver finish in the listing.

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 3

10A Longline Cardigan With A Chic Lapel Collar

From the sleek lapel to the patchwork pockets, this longline cardigan has the look of a high-end coat. Plus, it comes in fun colors like purple and burgundy and is light enough to wear on warmer days as well.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 10

11A 2-Piece Set You Can Mix & Match

No one would ever guess that the turtleneck and body-hugging skirt that are included in this two-piece set cost what they did. They look much more expensive whether you choose to keep them together or wear them separately to get even more bang for your buck. You’ll be super comfortable in the ribbed knit fabric.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 7

12A Cable-Knit Crewneck Available In Rich Neutrals

When you close your eyes and think of the perfect sweater, it’s probably this cable-knit crewneck that you picture. It feels as cozy as it looks and has an oversize fit so you can truly cuddle up inside its soft material. The diamond pattern and ribbed hem give the pullover personality.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 5

13A Shawl Wrap Made Of Cozy Double-Knit Fabric

This shawl wrap is easy to dress both up and down. It can casually be thrown over your shoulders and left open for a more laidback feel or you can tuck one side into the front tab to create beautiful pleats and a unique shape. It’s made out of a double-knit fabric that is wrinkle-resistant, making it perfect for travel.

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 17

14A Stretchy Ribbed Pencil Skirt With An Elastic Waistband

Everyone needs a ribbed knit pencil skirt in their closet and there are plenty of reasons that this should be the one that you go with. The side slit makes it easy to walk in, it has a stretchy waistband that won’t dig into your skin, and it comes in fun color and pattern options.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 16

15Fleece-Lined Pants That Are Work Appropriate

These fleece-lined pants will keep you warm and looking polished, even in the wind and low temperatures. They don’t have any fussy zippers or buttons but are still structured enough to wear to work. Or you can rock them to your next outdoor workout since they have a ton of stretch to them. Choose from a 29- and 31-inch inseam in the listing.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 3

16A Knotted Blouse That’s Super Lightweight

Refresh your closet by adding this knotted blouse to your pile of going-out tops. Its beautiful neckline falls into a knotted center that creates pleats and ruching throughout.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 17

17An Oversize Turtleneck That’s Not Itchy

The knit material of this stylish turtleneck sweater is extremely smooth so that you can wear it day in and day out without feeling itchy or constricted. You can choose between a great range of colors to fill any gaps in your wardrobe.

  • Available sizes: 16 Plus — 24 Plus
  • Available colors: 10

18A V-Neck Cardigan With Blazer Vibes

Take the structure of a blazer and the comfort of a sweater and you’ll get this V-neck cardigan. Its clean shape and shiny gold buttons make it look rich while its knit will keep you warm and cozy. It also has bell sleeves that add a dramatic flair to your look.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 8

19On-Trend Barrel Jeans With Great Stretch

As if their roomy legs weren’t enough to keep you comfortable, these barrel jeans are also made with elastane, giving them stretch throughout. Their tapered legs pull everything together and fall just above the ankle so that you can show off your ankle boots.

  • Available sizes: 4 — 18
  • Available colors: 8

20A Midi Sweater Dress With An Adjustable Belt

Tailored clothes always look more expensive and since this midi sweater dress has an adjustable tie waist, you can get nearly the same results at a much lower price. The ribbed knit will fit like a glove and keep you warm while the ruffles make you stand out in a crowd.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 9

21A Mock-Neck Pullover That Comes In A Ton Of Colors

This mock-neck pullover has a sleek look that will prove versatile in your day-to-day life. It can most definitely be worn out but is lined with fleece so you can use it for warmth when exercising outside or traveling. The wide collar (that features a slight slit on the left side) and cuffs are both ribbed.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 21

22A Button-Down Bodysuit With Ruffled Cuffs

One of the secrets to making your outfit appear more put-together is to have no hems popping out of your waistband, straps slipping off your shoulder, etc. This button-down bodysuit makes it easy to obtain that seamless look. It features a snap-button closure that won’t budge and a V-neck that won’t shift out of place. And the cherry on top is the ruffled cuffs.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 6

23Fancy-Looking Tortoiseshell Hoop Earrings At A Low Price

These tortoiseshell hoop earrings come in a pack of eight which means that each pair costs less than $2. They’re made of durable resin and come in a ton of fun color combinations so you can add some pizzazz to your looks.

24A Half-Zip Pullover That Comes In 30+ Colors

The thick feel of this half-zip pullover makes it look much more costly than it actually is. The clean stitching also helps elevate it. And every part of you is sure to stay warm since it has built-in thumb holes and a dropped shoulder collar that can be zipped all the way up to your chin.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 31

25A Striped Long-Sleeve Top With Great Details

Details are the key to making anything look more expensive, this shirt certainly does. The clean lines that fall across this striped long-sleeve shirt are classic while the scalloped neckline and sleeves give it a boutique look.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 7

26A Sweater Bodysuit With Puff Sleeves

It’s not often that you see a sweater bodysuit, so you should definitely jump at the chance to bring this one home. Since it snap buttons at the bottom, there’s no chance of the thick knit popping out of your waistband and looking less put-together than you had hoped. Everything will stay in place, including the puff sleeves that have extra-long ribbed cuffs for a regal touch. It has full coverage in the rear.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 20

27A Faux Leather Jacket That Looks So Real

This faux leather jacket is made with an oversize fit to give it a laidback look but it won’t stray far from your body since the hemline is ribbed and a bit cinched in. Small features like the smooth zipper make it look expensive enough to be genuine leather. No one will ever know the difference.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 6

28A Knit Midi Dress With A Matching Bolero

A matching set just about always has a rich vibe to it and this knit midi dress falls under that category since it comes with a bolero. It’s made with a beautiful ribbed pattern and a side slit so that you can show off your knee-high boots. The duo will keep you warm and have you ready for your next party.

  • Available sizes: XX-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 7

29A Pencil Skirt That’s Breathable & Stretchy

The material of this pencil skirt is soft, stretchy, and breathable. And it’s also made with a back slit to give you some extra wiggle room and an elastic waistband that won’t dig into your skin.

  • Available sizes: Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 9

30Ribbed Long-Sleeve Tops Made Of Soft Cotton

You’re sure to love these ribbed long sleeves, and the best part is they come in a pack of two. Made of luxuriously soft cotton and flexible elastane, they feel like a dream on the skin and are able to maintain their shape no matter how you move or how many wash cycles you put them through. They’re a must for every season.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 6X
  • Available colors: 8

31A 2-Piece Lounge Set You’ll Also Want To Wear Out

This monochromatic two-piece lounge set looks like it came from a high-end athleisure brand, but thankfully it's priced well. The ribbing, cinched-in sleeves, and trendy wide-leg pants all come together to create a cool look that’s soft enough to be worn to bed or paired with sneakers and worn around town.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 10

32A Satin Maxi Skirt With A Rich Sheen

When you want to elevate a top, slip into this oh-so-smooth satin maxi skirt. Every color, whether you opt for the navy blue or beige, has a gorgeous sheen to it that will make you feel like a star. It has an A-line fit that will pair perfectly with a more form-fitting top.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 8

33Satin Joggers With A Drawstring Waist

These satin joggers are so much dressier than the joggers that you may wear out for a run. In fact, they’re nice enough to be paired with a sparkly top and worn out to dinner with heels. Their drawstring waist has a tassel detail and the side pocket on the upper thigh is functional.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 3X-Large
  • Available colors: 17

34A Cozy Sweater Dress In 20+ Colors

Having a big and fancy event coming up on your calendar doesn’t mean that you have to go out and overspend. You can dress to impress in this affordable sweater dress that will feel like a warm hug and show off your style. It has two side slits, a tie waist, and a ribbed texture.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 25

35A Button-Down Cardigan With A Timeless Look

The slightly boxy cut and oversize buttons of this button-down cardigan make it stand out while still being a classic that you can wear for any plans you have. It will keep you warm and looks great with the buttons both closed and open.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 14

36A Puffer Vest With A Stylish Corduroy Exterior

You’ll reach for this corduroy puffer vest on transitional days. Its high-quality material is fully lined. Pair it with any kind of base layer (long sleeve shirt, hoodie, etc.) and you’ll look like an off-duty model.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 7

37An Off-The-Shoulder Bodysuit With Eye-Catching Ruching

Showing off your favorite necklace in this off-the-shoulder bodysuit will instantly make you feel fancier. And since it has ruching directly in the center, it’s so much more interesting than most other long sleeve tops. It’s super stretchy so that it can stay close to your body.

  • Available sizes: Large Plus — 4X-Large Plus
  • Available colors: 3

38Backless Loafers With A Cushioned Insole

These backless loafers are one of those magical pairs of shoes that can make even a plain tank top and pair of jeans look like they were put together by a fashion designer. You’ll feel and look sophisticated as the cushioned insoles keep you walking confidently and comfortably. Their faux leather upper is easy to match to tops and pants of various textures and patterns.

  • Available sizes: 5 — 11
  • Available colors: 8

39A Faux Shearling Pullover That Feels Like A Hug

This faux shearling pullover stands out amongst other sweaters not only because of its super fluffy fleece but also because of its elegant collar. It’s not every day that you see a lapel and slanted zipper on a top that you plan to simply cuddle up in. It also has a wide hemline and cuffs to keep in all the warmth.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 19

40A Chiffon Button-Down That’s Flowy & Lightweight

When you need just a bit of coverage or to add another color to your outfit, this chiffon button-down is the perfect thing to grab. It can be added to just about any look and is perfectly lightweight.

  • Available sizes: Large Plus — 4X-Large Plus
  • Available colors: 5

41A Cable-Knit Cardigan With Contrasting Ribbons

Once you get over how ridiculously cute the bows on this cable-knit cardigan are (if you ever do), you’ll notice just how soft it is too. The knitted fabric is extremely skin-friendly but you can also use the piece for layering so that you can stay extra warm in the colder months. Choose from eight colors in the listing, including white, brown, blue, pink, black, and more.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 8

42A Mock-Neck Crop Top That’s Perfect For Layering

Pop this mock-neck crop top underneath a flannel, blazer, cardigan, and so much more. Since it’s sleeveless, it won’t bunch up or create noticeable lines under your clothing. It’s also stretchy so that it’s easy to get into.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 6

43Wide-Leg Pants Available In Long & Short Lengths

The weight of an item typically tells you all you need to know about its quality and these wide-leg pants feel like a pair that would cost much more than they do. They’re made of smooth chiffon that’s anti-static and have an elastic waistband.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 2X (select short & long sizes available)
  • Available colors: 29

44A Sweater Vest You Can Wear All Year

Styling this sweater vest doesn’t take much effort but will make you look like a style icon. It creates a refined look thanks to its clean pattern and ribbed hemlines. Best of all? It can be worn all year long.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 7

45A Fleece Sweatsuit With A Clean & Seamless Look

This fleece sweatsuit manages to somehow feel like a cloud (because of its elastic waistband and relaxed fit) while also keeping you warm. It will give you that clean-girl aesthetic that everyone is after since you can barely see the stitching and it features subtle pleats falling down the front of the wide-leg sweatpants.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 10

46A Puffer Vest With A Cool-Girl Stand-Up Collar

This puffer vest is a must. It looks like it came from one of those overpriced athleisure brands since it comes in vibrant colors and has a simple yet trendy design. From the stand-up collar to the slightly cropped hem, it will transform your workout look.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 13

47Soft Denim Cargo Pants That Come In Multiple Colors

These cargo pants are made out of denim that’s super stretchy so that you can have a dressed-up look without sacrificing your comfort. The pair has two deep front pockets and comes in a bunch of great neutrals that can match anything and everything.

  • Available sizes: 4 — 18
  • Available colors: 9

48A Twist-Front Top That’s Double-Lined

You’ll instantly notice the quality of this double-lined twist-front top. Thanks to its material, even the white option won’t be see-through and it will certainly keep you warm. Incorporate it in both day and night looks.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — Large
  • Available colors: 5

49An Oversize Cardigan That’ll Never Go Out Of Style

This oversize cardigan has the softness and thickness that you would expect from a high-end designer. Wrap it around yourself to feel cozy even when you’re far away from your bed. It has dropped shoulders to add to its laidback vibe and two pockets so you can keep your phone and wallet nearby at all times.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 21

50A Cap-Sleeve Top You Can Wear All Year

Wear this cap-sleeve shirt alone on warmer days and layered under a blazer or cardigan on cooler ones. The material is a polyester and cotton blend with a touch of stretch, giving you the best qualities of those fabrics.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 21

51Bow-Shaped Earrings Made Of Elegant Faux Pearls

These demure bow earrings are the perfect finishing touch to any look that you put together. The pearls look real and are elegant enough to attract attention without taking away from the rest of your outfit.

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors & styles: 7

52A 2-Piece Set Made Of Waffle-Knit Fabric

The look and feel of waffle-knit material is too good to pass up. This two-piece knit set comes with a button-up cardigan and wide-leg pants that both have that classic pattern. You can put the duo on for a chill night at home or style it with some jewelry and a bag for a long day full of activities.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 8

53A Satin Button-Down With Elevated Fabric-Covered Buttons

This satin button-down will look expensive from a mile away but once you get closer and notice that its neatly lined buttons are fabric-covered, you’ll be even more impressed. The details speak for themselves and will have everyone wondering where you found such a chic piece. And it’s fun too, coming in solids as well as a cheetah print, lime green, and more.

  • Available sizes: XX-Small — 5X
  • Available colors: 12

54A Bomber Jacket With Plenty Of Texture

Subtle details always make a piece look more expensive. This bomber jacket has a criss-cross pattern covering its fabric, elevating it in a subtle way. It has a shape that’s easy to throw over dresses or tops and comes in a great range of colors.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 10

55Bra & Panty Sets For Less Than $4 A Piece

Even just one bra and panty set would be a great deal at this price but you actually get four sets in this pack. Each matching duo is made of super soft and stretchy material that feels too luxurious to have such a low cost. They’re also completely seamless so that you can wear them under anything.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available color sets: 5

56A Faux-Suede Midi Skirt That’s Stretchy

Flexibility may not be the first thing you imagine when thinking about this faux suede midi skirt but because it’s made with elastane, it has a ton of it. So while this piece does hit just at the knees for that elegant look, it will still be a breeze to move around in. It’s also extremely durable and timeless.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 7

57A Striped V-Neck Sweater With A Chic Lapel

This striped V-neck sweater is one of those pieces that you’ll have for years to come. Not only because of its long-lasting material but because you’ll never get tired of its simple yet chic style. It’s casual but thanks to its lapel collar and ribbed cuffs, not too casual to wear to your next get-together with friends.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 5

58Dress Pants That Won’t Wrinkle

While dress pants are obviously a great choice for when it’s time to go into the office, they also give you a good way to switch up your day-to-day style. No matter how casual the day, you can rock them by simply putting on a chunky pair of sneakers and tucking in an oversize sweater. Since they’re made of wrinkle-resistant material, you’ll always look picture-perfect.

  • Available sizes: 1X — 5X
  • Available colors: 11

59A Pashmina That Feels Like Cashmere

You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to get the feel and look of cashmere. This pashmina shawl delivers the same quality feel for under $20. It’s thick and machine washable so you can wear it over and over again.

  • Available sizes: One size
  • Available colors: 27

60A Bodycon Sweater Dress With Elegant Texture

This bodycon sweater dress can be worn in so many different ways. Match the energy of its cozy ribbed knit material by pairing it with sneakers or keep its lapel collar looking elegant by wearing sky-high heels and a clutch. Since it’s a mini, it’s also a great option to rock with thigh-high boots.

  • Available sizes: Small — X-Large
  • Available colors: 8

61A Pleated Knit Skirt With Pull-On Closure

The buttons that line the center of this pleated knit skirt give it a classic feel that makes its price tag unbelievable (they aren’t functional so that you don’t have to worry about them accidentally opening). Plus, its pull-on closure makes it easy to get on, even when you’re in a hurry.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 5

62Satin Camisoles To Upgrade Any Outfit

Any time you feel the urge to put on an ordinary tank top, reach for one of these satin camisoles instead for an instant upgrade. They add shine and elegance to your look and are comfortable as well since they’re lightweight (without being see-through). They come in a pack of three.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 4X
  • Available colors: 34

63A Lace-Trimmed Tank Top That’s Beautifully Flowy

You don’t have to do much in order to let this lace-trimmed tank top shine. Leave it loose and it will flow as you walk or tuck it in to use it as a layering piece when wearing a blazer. The lightweight fabric will make you feel comfortable while the lacy neckline will make you look glamorous.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — 4X-Large
  • Available colors: 20

64Straight-Leg Dress Pants That Come In 5 Lengths

These straight-leg dress pants are made of a thick fabric that manages to still be breathable so that you’re comfortable throughout your long work day or night out. And they have two front pockets and two faux back pockets. They’re also special since they come in various inseam lengths, allowing people of all different heights to rock them.

  • Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 14

65A Twisted Blouse Made Of Luxurious Satin

This satin blouse has so much star power on its own that it will turn any outfit into a going-out look. It’s completely smooth except for the elegant twist design along the neckline and the button closure on the back. Tuck it in or leave it loose.

  • Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
  • Available colors: 16