If you read my articles regularly, you may well know that I have this little thing called "expensive taste, small budget" syndrome. I'll be the first to admit I'm partial to a luxury leather Bottega Veneta purse, but my bank account suggests I better stick to Zara. Luckily, however, as a fashion market editor, I've become rather good at finding the most elevated and expensive-looking seasonal pieces that won't damage your bank balance.
Today, I'm sharing some of my favorite luxe-looking (but budget-friendly!) finds for summer. Included in the mix are pretty summer dresses, designer-looking bags, and sophisticated sandals that will take your warm-weather ensembles to next-level chic. So if you're a "champagne taste on a beer budget" type like me, then scroll below for some fancy-looking summer finds—all coming in at under $100.
Forever 21
Ribbed Button-Front Midi Dress
Ribbed knit dresses are all over our feeds right now.
& Other Stories
Fitted Smocked Ruffle Top
Everything from the puff sleeves to the high neck to the smocked fabric makes this top look so expensive.
Mango
Heel Leather Sandals
Every fashion girl is wearing minimalist thong sandals right now.
Zara
Seam Detail Long Shorts
These look like they came straight off the runway.
& Other Stories
Twisted Sphere Ring
We can't believe this is under $30 either.
Babton
Verdana Top
This ribbed strapless tube top has major Khaite vibes.
Topshop
Clean Crepe Shorts
Exude a relaxed elegance this summer.
Topshop
Pine White Buckle Sandals
We're wearing the above shorts with these posh-looking slides.
Mango
Pleated Trousers
Swap your sweats for these chic (and super-comfy) pleated pants.
& Other Stories
Chunky Chain Link Bracelet
We might just wear this as a bold anklet too.
H&M
Linen-Blend Pull On Pants
Linen adds a sophisticated touch to your summer outfit.
JW Pei
Gabbi Bag
Major designer vibes without the designer price.
& Other Stories
Sheer Fitted Polo Top
How pretty is this color, though?
Forever 21
Satin Knee-Length Skirt
A silky slip skirt elevates every ensemble.
Billabong
Back for More Open Back Crop Top
An Insta-worthy top if there ever was one.
Zara
Linen Shorts
Can you tell we're into long shorts?
Schutz
Queliana Slip-On Sandal
Chic square-toe shoes look so luxe.
Mango
Printed Long Dress
Add this to your cart quickly while it's still on sale.
Mango
Braided Design Bag
Woven leather is one of this season's biggest bag trends.
H&M
Smocked Top
Not your average tank top.
American Apparel
Gabardine Tennis Skirt
Preppy tennis skirts are trending, and we're 100% here for it.
Mango
Oversize Sunglasses
Channel the massive '70s trend we saw all over the S/S 2020 runways.
H&M
Wide-Cut Dress
Everything about this fun frock puts us in the best mood.
Mango
Buckle Coco Sandals
Mock-croc fabric makes everything look more expensive.
& Other Stories
Chunky Layered Open Hoop Earrings
Update your hoops for a bold, chunky pair.
Who What Wear
Short Sleeve Dress
Voluminous and billowy dresses are all we want to live in right now.
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.