Oh, the things we would do with an unlimited budget. Alas, there's nothing like the holidays to remind us of our slim wallets. With too many presents to buy and too many formal occasions to dress for, it can feel impossible to look great without being a Grinch. Fortunately for our savings accounts, it's easy to shop outside the (designer) box for great buys that are still glam. With enough patience, intuition, and an eye for spotting the right details, it is possible to find inexpensive items that only look like a splurge. Everything you'll find ahead rings in under $130 (but looks $500 and up), saving you a few tears (and dollars) when accounting for that pesky holiday gifting budget. That way, you can fearlessly face every event this season with an ensemble that makes you look as good as you'll feel after giving generously to everyone on your list.
The perfect party dress for the season. A ruffled satin hem turns this LRD (little red dress) into something runway-worthy.
A Common Space Simone High-Low Dress, $78, available at A Common Space.
Cinching right above your waist is a figure flattering trick you rarely find in mass-produced pieces.
Cos Tie-Detail Top, $99, available at Cos.
This one is a bit of a cheat. The only thing better than grabbing an amazing, inexpensive buy, is grabbing an amazing expensive buy at a majorly discounted price. We're sold on the heavy denim fabric that touts a trendy, asymmetric hem.
Whistles Textured Chambray Zip Skirt, $230 $69, available at Whistles.
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Make them think you blew your end-of-year bonus in one fell swoop with this sophisticated rose-gold number.
Cheap platform heels can be tricky, but this printed, patent option aced it.
Asos Pentagon High Heels, $76, available at Asos.
A sweater that stands out from the crowd.
Front Row Shop Black Embroidery Tops with Fur Details, $81, available at Front Row Shop.
It's all in the details with this jumpsuit. Simple eye tricks, like a halter top, a front-wrap tie at the waist, and wide pant legs give this piece a luxe feel.
H&M Halterneck Jumpsuit, $59.99, available at H&M.
This coat's colorblocking works in all the best ways, from trimmed cuffs to a woolen lapel.
SheIn Pink Grey Lapel Pockets Woolen Coat, $79.35 $53.39, available at SheIn.
A high-collared dress to help you shine like the star you are.
Zara Studio Dress with Back Slit, $129, available at Zara.
Sure, you can stock up on a bunch of generic, inexpensive black booties, but added statements (like a gold heel) can give them a designer edge.
Loéil Raya Gold Ankle Boots, $69, available at Loéil.
Ride the wave of the '90s resurgence in this velvet halter dress.
Mango Halter Velvet Dress, $59.99, available at Mango.
This soft tee comes in a rich, velvety velour that stretches injustthe right ways.
Talula Yardley T-Shirt, $50, available at Aritzia.
The billowy silhouette and contrasting buttons give this steal of a coat an elegant feel.
Uniqlo Lemaire Hooded Coat, $149.90 $99.90, available at Uniqlo.
An essential chunky crewneck that doesn't look like it will pill with one wash.
Pixie Market Grey Puffy Sleeve Sweater, $65, available at Pixie Market.
Don't feel like you have to splurge on the marbled mule trend you've been seeing everywhere.
Charles & Keith Square-Toe Mules, $49 $19, available at Charles & Keith.
Statement earrings that that look like a million bucks, but cost nothing near it.
Topshop Pearl Stick Drop Earrings, $18, available at Topshop.
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