5 Ways to Look Sophisticated on a Budget

Although most of us deny it, I am willing to bet that many of us make judgments based off first impressions. It doesn’t mean these initial thoughts are the end all and be all, but they are important nonetheless. One of the easiest ways to make a lasting impression is to dress the part. Whether it be for a business meeting or you just want to ensure you always impress at the office, you want your outfit to say you are confident and put together.

This does not mean you need to break the bank with a completely new wardrobe either! Here are some easy ways to look more sophisticated on a budget.

Neutrals like white, black, grey and beige are much more demure and always remain timeless. Plus, they always look good together. (Photo: Jessica Wang)

Maximize neutrals

One of the easiest rules to implement into a more adult wardrobe is to stick to neutral colors. Glaring neons and bright patterns have a time and place, but you want to avoid them taking over the entirety of your look.

If you need a pop of color, interject it into your accessories. Otherwise, shades like white, black, grey and beige are much more demure and will always remain timeless. In fact, these neutral colors always look good together, giving you a lot of opportunity to mix and match your pieces. I know I am a rule breaker, but if you pay attention, you will find that I abide this rule in cases where it matters most!

Minimal jewelry

Just like you optimize neutrals, you will also want to do the same thing with your accessories. Although it makes up a small percentage of your entire look, jewelry can easily influence your overall outfit. For a more sophisticated aesthetic, I like to stick to jewelry that is not too flashy. Things like extra long chandelier earrings or oversized bangles can actually cheapen an outfit if worn the wrong way. So when it comes to your bling, keep it minimal! There is nothing wrong with some simple hoop earrings, a cocktail ring and delicate gold necklaces.

Keep it simple

In terms of the actual content of your outfit, a way you can manage to look more sophisticated on a budget is to not overthink it and keep it simple. You do not always need to be geared up in all of the latest trends to hit the runway. In this instance, less is definitely more. In fact, a capsule wardrobe might be really ideal in this type of situation. Items such as a good quality bodysuit, pointed toe pumps and a structured blazer can all be dressed up or down.

Tailored items, such as a blazer, are a must for your more sophisticated wardrobe and make your outfit look more mature.
(Photo: Jessica Wang)

Tailored pieces

Speaking of the blazer, tailored items such as this are a must for your more sophisticated wardrobe. Items that actually fit you in all the right places totally make your outfit look more mature. Anything from a skirt that hits at just the right height or a cropped pair of trousers that manage to elongate your legs. Taking the extra step to ensure each item fits you the way you envisioned shows you put a lot of care into your outwards appearance, which is critical when making first impressions.

Mature prints

This last point is similar to the one I made earlier about being more cognizant of the colors you are wearing. A more sophisticated closet also calls for you to take carefully consider the patterns you are wearing. Classic prints such as plaid, polka dots, houndstooth and stripes are more mature compared to something like a tie dye or a loud animal print.

Article written by Jessica Wang