3 Cheap(ish) Elevated Finds That Will Make Your Closet Look More Expensive

No matter the season, I am always striving to bring my outfits to the next level without breaking the bank. As a fashion editor and professional shopper I've learned how to pull this off without stress. When piecing together an elevated rotation of outfits, some affordable rich-looking pieces can do much of the heavy lifting with very little effort. Whenever I come across a standout while shopping, adding it to my cart is a no-brainer.
This winter there are three key pieces that I have my eye on that get the job done: sleek trousers, a polished long coat, and chic pieces with a built-in scarf. Thankfully, the selection across my favorite retailers is abundant in the under-$150 range. Keep scrolling to shop my top picks across these three elevated categories that are guaranteed to make your closet look more expensive.
Sleek Trousers
A sleek trouser is an instant way to elevate any look. Pair your favorite style and color with everything from sweaters and blazers to a basic T-shirt.
Shop Trousers:
Polished Long Coats
A long coat in a black, gray, or neutral hue, has the power to transform even the most casual of looks into an ensemble with an undeniably rich-looking feel.
Shop Long Coats
Pieces With Built-In Scarves
I don't know what it is about a built-in scarf, but, to me, it just looks so effortless with a coat or sweater. Not to mention that the style is incredibly convenient on a chilly day.
Shop Pieces With Built-In Scarves

Jennifer Camp Forbes is a senior shopping editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities including creative director and various editor roles. She’s a well-known shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups. Jennifer's lifelong interest in fashion led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor, and These Are a Few of My Favorite Things Right Now
The ultimate summer 2025 wish list.
-
I'm in My 20s, and Jennifer Aniston Is in Her 50s—We're Both Sidelining Blue Jeans for This Cool 2025 Alt
You should too.
-
The Best Elevated Basics to Shop If You Love The Row, According to a Stylist
So chic.
-
The 29 Most-Wanted Luxury Buys of Summer 2025, Period
From jelly sandals to Burberry bikinis.
-
Linen Who? This Even More Effortless Trend Just Entered the Chat
Meet the most wearable trend of the summer.
-
Your June Shopping List Is Here: 10 Items to Prioritize Over Everything Else
Summer wardrobe secured.
-
From Denim to White T-Shirts—These Are the Specific Brands I Source My Basics From
When you've tried them all, you know what's good.
-
I Couldn't Help But Notice That L.A.'s Coolest Dressers Always Wear This Shoe Trend With Black Trousers
If you guessed ballet flats, you'd be wrong.