Lately, it seems like you can't go outside or online without being faced with one hard reality: Prices are high. While the fiscal well-being of each person differs, there's no denying that the rise in the cost of everyday necessities has made most household budgets a bit tighter, making shopping less of a priority. However, just because our belts have tightened doesn't mean that we want to look like things have changed. In fact, one could argue that the cultural interest in fashion aesthetics, such as quiet luxury and old money, is driven by our collective desire to cosplay as the wealthy.
Whatever the rationale, it's quite common among the fashion crowd to want to curate a closet that looks expensive without spending too much money. Of course, that's easier said than done. It can be challenging at times to find chic and cheap items—it's a skill that takes time to build. Lucky for you, that's the point of my job. To help you find the best rich-looking summer finds, I've spent hours searching through the new-arrivals sections of some of our favorite retailers, including J.Crew, Nordstrom, Zara, and H&M. Whether you're looking for a few new summer staples or just want to look like you're a walking stack of cash, any of these 37 rich-looking summer items, all under $250, will do the trick.
Jenny Bird
Lydia Earrings
"Throw on and go" earrings for every occasion.
J.Crew
Strapless Mixy Dress
A dress so good it makes one consider redownloading a dating app.
TKEES
Twiggy Ankle Strap Sandal
Strappy sandals will always be the shoes of choice for the summertime.
Madewell
Handwoven Leather Tote
Now, here's a summer bag you can carry from the beach to the boardroom.
Elevate all your summer essentials by styling them with a silk scarf.
J.Crew
Étienne Oversized Shirt in Lightweight Oxford
A collared shirt as crisp as a dollar bill.
ZARA
Z1975 High-Waisted Mom Fit Shorts
Opt for longer denim shorts to elevate this summer staple.
Steve Madden
Cary Heeled Sandals
Carrie Bradshaw would approve.
ZARA
Pack of Rigid Bracelets
Bangles are so back, baby!
ZARA
Interlock Bandeau Top
J.crew
Wide-Leg Essential Pant in Linen
A pop of color is never a bad idea.
J.Crew
Shell Earrings With Inset Pearls
Never underestimate the understated power of shell earrings.
Sharing in case you want to pretend you'll be sailing in Saint-Tropez this summer.
Madewell
Low Slung Baggy Jeans
White jeans will always make all your summer outfits look 10 times wealthier.
White sneakers will always scream money.
JW PEI
Lucia Faux Leather Top Handle Bag
It's not a designer bag, but it will certainly hold you over.
A white blazer is a must-have for a summer work wardrobe.
B-Low the Belt
Diem Leather Belt
Styling your staples with a statement belt will make them look far more sophisticated.
Good American
Suiting Longer Length Shorts
Pleated shorts will always be the epitome of preppy.
Franco Sarto
Nicola Square Toe Mule
You can wear these well into the fall.
Luv AJ
Sunset Stone Pendant Cord Necklace
Cord necklaces are currently having a moment.
j.crew
Pleated Drawstring Maxi Skirt in Linen Blend
Loving this flowy pleated skirt with simple tops this summer.
ZARA
Flat Strappy Sandals With Metal Ornament
Hardware sandals are having a moment, FYI!
J.Crew
Cutaway Vest Top in Linen
You'll wear this simple waistcoat more times than you can count.
Open Edit
Cotton Poplin Maxi Skirt
You'll end up living in this skirt for the rest of the summer.
QUAY
Felt Cute 52mm Gradient Small Oval Sunglasses
You can make any pair of shades look designer simply by choosing classic frames.
It's not your run-of-the-mill white T-shirt.
J.Crew
Handknotted Large Straw Tote With Fish Charm
Even if you're not heading to the South of France, this straw tote will bring that je ne sais quoi to all your summer ensembles.
jcrew
Cosmo Pant in Luster Charmeuse
Throwing on a pair of silky pants is the simplest way to look (and stay) cool all summer.
LILI CLASPE
Arlo Small Stud Earrings
COS
Paneled Gathered Side Cotton Blend Midi Dress
If this dress doesn't prove that you don't have to spend a small fortune to look sophisticated this summer, nothing will.
ZARA
Sandals With Metallic Detail
These strappy sandals feel very designer coded.
ZARA
Zw Collection Pocket Puffer Jacket
Light layers are a must for late summer.
Reiss
Ruby Scoop Neck Tank
The scoop neckline adds a sophisticated touch to this summer staple.
Levi's
501 Curve High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
You can dress these jeans up or down depending on your plans.
Madewell
The Maycie Asymmetric T-Strap Sandal
Honestly, I'm surprised that these sandals aren't sold out yet.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.