6 Tips to Help You Expertly Mix High and Low Price Points

Shop My Outfit Here:

Dress//Solace London (also loving this snake print dress)  Handbag//Zara (similar straw bag)

Shoes//Enzo Angiolini  Watch//Skagen

In the last few years, I’ve realized that I have a very distinct philosophy on dressing. I feel like I’ve become the queen of mixing high and low price points – if I do say so myself.

I do often wear higher price points; especially when it comes to my handbags because that is my favorite part of an outfit. However, I’m a firm believer that you don’t need to wear head to toe designer to look stylish.

It’s more about quality over quantity in my eyes no matter how much I’m spending. It could be a $20 t-shirt or a $200 blouse. I want to know that what I’m spending my money on is worth it because this girl works too hard to waste it.

I do enjoy mixing high and low price points to create a truly unique outfit and to maximize your budget. I’m going to give you some of my tips on how to expertly achieve this so no one can tell the difference.

HOW TO MIX HIGH AND LOW PRICE POINTS

Tip #1: Quality is Key

It is all about quality over quantity, which has nothing to do with price. People often think that a higher price point means an item will be of high quality, but that isn’t always the case.

So what do I mean by quality then?

I first look at the overall appearance of the item. Is the stitching off? Does it lay oddly on the hanger? Does the hardware seem cheaply made? If the answer is yes to any of these questions then walk away.

Next, if it’s a garment I look at the fabric tag to see what it’s made out of. I prefer items that are 100% natural materials or at least more than 60%. These would be fabrics like cotton, silk, linen, wool, etc. so nothing synthetically made in a lab. I find that they usually look higher quality, feel better on the skin, and are much more breathable. You can easily find 100% cotton blouses at places like Zara or H&M – you just have to be willing to look.

Tip #2: Don’t Ignore the Fit 

This next point goes hand in hand with quality. If the fit is off then it doesn’t matter the price – it will instantly cheapen the look. Growing up with an Italian father I was taught all about the importance of fit and how valuable a tailor can be. Don’t be afraid to take lower price point items to a tailor because it can truly make something look expensive just with the proper fit.

When it comes to fit, I try to look at how the garment makes me look. Does it compliment my shape? Does it cut me off in a strange area? Is there extra fabric that isn’t needed or does it lay strangely because it wasn’t made well?

You want your clothes to flatter YOU and not force it. If it seems like it will be an easy fix (sinching in the waist or making the sleeves shorter) then take it to a tailor but if it requires a total reconstruction…move on.

Tip #3: Sales are your Best Friend 

One of my favorite ways to score higher price points at a discount is during sale times. I’m signed up to newsletters for some of my favorite higher-end retailers so when a sale hits I’m one the first to know. I also regularly look online to see if any major retailers are having a sale.

I keep a running list of items I need so I can act quickly during sale times. I usually look for classic items like a great silk blouse, a pair of neutral boots like Stuart Weitzman or Aquatalia, a cashmere sweater, or leather sandals. It’s a great way to score luxury items for less because if you can save money why not?!

I just scored this MCM bag on major sale, which I know will work year-round.

Tip #4: Go Simple on the Jewelry 

Wearing simple jewelry can instantly make any outfit look chicer so I recommend investing in a classic watch that will go with anything you wear.

Investing in a watch doesn’t mean you have to go straight to Cartier, however, if that is the route you are wanting to go down consider looking at pre-loved consignment sites like TheRealReal to score a great deal.

That is definitely on my list, but I have been very happy with more of a lower point brand – Skagen. It’s a Danish brand that I discovered at Nordstrom and I wear my watch everyday. This watch was under $100 and looks so unique with the dark face. I always get so many compliments on it.

Tip #5: Know What to Invest In 

Never spend a lot on trends because they are just that – fleeting trends. Now if it’s something that YOU consider a classic spend whatever you would like because it truly comes down to cost per wear. Opt for a higher price point on items that you can style in many different ways and will wear season after season.

I personally think it’s best to invest in closet staples such as jeans (my favorite brand is Mother denim and they are 100% worth it), blazers, classic bags, silk blouses, and a good pair of suede boots.

Tip #6: When in Doubt Opt for Neutrals

There is something so classic and elegant about neutrals – no matter the price point. If you’re unsure how to mix high and low price points to make a cohesive look always opt for neutrals. You can’t go wrong. Also when opting for less expensive items choose neutrals because it will instantly elevate the item; making it look much more expensive than it really is.

For example, my bag and my shoes in this outfit are both incredibly affordable but opting for black creates a higher-end feel.

Are you a fan of mixing high and low price points? What are your thoughts on this? If you have any tips feel free to share them in the comment section below!