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How to look classy and expensive (especially on a budget) is nothing new here, but the inspo behind today’s post is one of the newest sources for timeless, luxurious fashion: Crazy Rich Asians! While this movie isn’t brand new, you can’t help but marvel at the stunning classy outfits the ladies in this film wear. Whether it’s a stunning statement piece or simple button-down shirt, these women (who just so happen to be the richest family in Singapore, of course!) show how to look classy and wear luxury in the best way possible.
While we may not all be billionaires, we can take some inspo from this movie and apply it to our own wardrobes! Here are some surefire ways to get that classy and elegant look that will make a world of difference in your style.
How to Look Classy & Expensive
1. No jeans- only dress pants if you don’t want to wear a skirt or dress
A quick Fashion History 101 lesson: while jeans are absolutely a casual style staple, denim jeans were originally crafted as workwear for manual laborers, such as miners. Although this style has certainly branched into a clothing genre all its own, they very rarely read “elegance”.
I can’t recall a single woman of the Young family ever wearing jeans in the movie. To achieve that same classy look, swap out your jeans for well-fitted trousers or suit pants made from quality fabrics like cotton, linen, or wool.
Shop similar: camel coat | dress pants | bag
2. Wear your hair pulled back
While not everyone wore their hair pulled back in this movie, a majority of the women did – especially Eleanor, who is 100% class in this movie. Pulling back your hair into a chic updo, low bun, or even a chic ponytail is an easy way to refine your overall look and give it that chic touch; think Audrey Hepburn and her famous updos.
It doesn’t always have to be perfectly sleek either! As Astrid shows us, a slightly undone style has its own youthful and timeless appeal.
Shop similar: top | camel coat
3. Wear pointy heels
No matter what your personal style is, one pair of shoes that every wardrobe can benefit from is a pair of pointed-toe pumps, especially for special occasions. But if you really want a classy vibe, swap out your sneakers and sandals for this classic staple. Pointed-toe pumps elongate the leg and go a long way in elevating your style. In the photo above Astrid, you can see our style icon Eleanor once again killing it in a pair of black pumps.
Shop similar shoes: here | here
4. Wear drop pearl earrings
Now that your hair is pulled back, all you need is a stunning pair of drop earrings. Pearls are a trademark of luxury and classy style and beautiful pair of drop pearl earrings is the perfect finishing touch to a perfect look. It’s the little things that make all the difference!
5. Wear blazers or suit sets
While the show-stopping couture gowns we see in the movie may not be realistic for daily life, a sophisticated blazer and/or suit is! Few outfits look more fabulous and put-together than a well-tailored suit and we can definitely see that in Eleanor’s killer white pinstripe number. For practical purposes, it’s best to go with blazers and suits in neutral colors so you can get as much wear as possible out of your basics. If the full white pinstripe pattern is a bit much for you, you can always go for a subtly patterned blazer and black pants.
Shop similar: blazer | pants | bag
6. Midi to floor-length gowns
Most women will probably never have the type of lifestyle where they need a bunch of formal gowns in my closet. However, when you’re in the mood for something a little fancier, a slip dress is always a classy way to get that luxe look. Though they might not compare to a $5,000+ custom gown, the good news is that these timeless pieces can be worn again and again. For even more of that chic, classic vibe, go for a fabric like satin or (even better) silk.
Shop similar slip dress: here | here
7. Don’t be afraid to look “extra”
As the Radio One Asia girls showed us in the film, looking expensive and classy is not all crisp pleats and straight lines. While there is a clean elegance to a more simple outfit, a classy woman knows how to use bold statement pieces to her advantage. After all, fashion is still supposed to be fun! This could be a voluminous coat, a bold statement necklace, or an eye-catching pair of shoes. Just be sure to create a good balance in your look; if you’re rocking a vibrant patterned coat, you’ll want to keep the rest of your look more toned-down to let the piece shine.
Shop similar coat: here | here | here
That was a lot of info, so now it’s RECAP TIME on how to look classy & expensive!
No to…
- Jeans- tailored dress pants or suit pants instead
- Sneakers, sandals, or flats- neutral heels, preferably pointy-toed. Shiny/ patent is good too.
- Mini dresses- midi or floor length instead
- Obvious logos- we all know they’re wearing designer but they’re not covered in logos head to toe
Yes to…
- Blazers and suits!
- Sunglasses!
- Wearing your hair pulled back!
- Drop earrings & pearls!
- Pretty blouses!
- Minimal prints!
As you can see, the ladies of Crazy Rich Asians have quite a bit to teach us about looking classy and expensive. And the best part is that you don’t have to break the bank to do it! Try out some of these tips and don’t forget that, although it may be cliche, confidence is always the classiest and most valuable accessory – no amount of money can buy it!
You’re going to want to check out these posts before you go!
9 Tips on How to Look Expensive + What to Avoid
9 MORE Fabulous Ways on How to Look Expensive
How to Look Expensive On a Budget
Looking Chic On a Budget
