The idea of “looking expensive” isn’t new, but with the boom of social media over the past few years, more people are diving into this trend of appearing more “expensive” or “high class” without having to spend more money.
This trend doesn’t have to do with showing off big brands or flexing wealth, but instead creating the image of someone who is put-together, chic, and sophisticated (think “old money” versus “new money”). While confidence has a dramatic impact regardless of style, there are some key attributes needed to achieve this clean, classy look.
One of the biggest factors, of course, is fashion. This look consists of crisp, simple, and neutral pieces of clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Shades of black, white, and brown are often chosen for this style as they can easily be dressed up and down as well as mixed and matched to create the illusion of a larger wardrobe without needing to buy a lot of new pieces.
This type of look is also often accompanied by long coats, structured bags, pointy shoes, and sunglasses. A lot of the staple items of clothing are also usually tailored, ironed, or tucked to create a well-kempt appearance. Being “clean” and well-groomed is the most important part of this look, after all.
Past the fashion aspect, the clean, neutral, and sleek aspects also apply to the skin, hair, and makeup. Maintaining a hair and skincare routine that’s best for your hair and skin types is important. Fresh, frizz-free hair, manicures, clean teeth, and clear skin (use SPF people!) all culminate into a cohesive style that makes you look like you have the time and money to keep up your appearance with ease (even if that isn’t true).
For one example of how to seem “expensive,” I created a natural, neutral, yet sultry makeup look.
After doing my skincare, I started with a natural base with a foundation that matched my skin tone, and I fixed my brows in place.
If you haven’t tried KROMA’s foundations yet, they are a must. KROMA Foundations have been used in swimsuit catalogs and at celebrity events before the “natural look” reached today’s prime. Made in Florida, these foundations are known to withstand heat and other conditions, plus these non-clogging cosmetics have been spa-approved and doctor-recommended for two decades!
Once my regular makeup routine was set, I used a light brown matte eyeshadow as a subtle eyeliner. Then, I used Christian Dior’s Diorshow Waterproof Mascara in brown to keep the look neutral but sleek. Brown mascara is less dramatic than a black lash for a natural effect that still makes a statement.
Then I used Charlotte Tilbury’s K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Bitch Perfect to give my lips some subtle color. I love this formula because it’s ultra-soft, but the color never bleeds.
I finished the look with CHI’s G2 Ceramic & Titanium 1.25” Hairstyling Iron (which is also available as a one-inch iron). This flat iron flows like butter over your locks; it creates the straightest, sleekest hair in the shortest amount of time from any other flat iron I’ve tried.
This look is perfect because it’s subtle and natural, but it can also easily be added to for a bolder effect, such as with a red lip or darker eyeliner.
Looking “expensive” isn’t about how much you spend or even what’s in your bank account: It’s about creating a chic, sophisticated, and sleek appearance and carrying that look with confidence.
For questions, concerns, or article ideas, feel free to reach out to our eCosmetics Beauty Editor directly at beauty@ecosmetics.com.
