# The tweed jacket is a classic and premium versions can be nauseatingly expensive because the wool used is woven and dyed by hand. Pay an inexpensive tribute to this iconic piece by opting for the more affordable silk tweed. Machine-woven tweed also tends to be cheaper. Match with a pair of boyfriend jeans to evoke a power-suit appeal without breaking the bank.
# Guys should always avoid baggy jeans as they will look sloppy. Opt for a pair that fits perfectly, with a smooth light wash to lend jeans a stylish edge. Pair them with a well-tailored button-down shirt for a sharp look.
# Inexpensive fabrics in light colours can look very cheap. Opt for rich hues of midnight blue, red or gold when picking garments made with cheaper fabrics like polyester and rayon.
# Fabrics such as lace or dresses trimmed with dark-coloured satin are safe bets for looking posh. This is because even the cheaper versions of such fabrics can appear expensive in the right colour.
# When choosing an evening gown, opt for a princess-cut with a full skirt to emulate that luxe feel.
# Exotic skin adds instant luxe to any outfit but also costs a bomb. Go for animal prints on dresses, tops and bottoms or faux leather details to re-create that luxe appeal.
# Always pay attention to the fit of your suit, because an expensive suit is cut to flatter your body. An inexpensive way to get a luxe look is to get a tailor to alter the cut of a high-street jacket to fit your body perfectly.
# Cashmere and silk are quintessentially luxe. Go for cotton-blend fabrics with a slight metallic sheen to get that oh-so-rich appeal at inexpensive prices.
# As one of the hottest trends in fashion right now, metallic embellishments create a super-luxe feel and bring style to what would otherwise be a simple T-shirt or dress.
# Shorts are hot menswear items this season. To avoid looking sloppy, opt for tailored shorts and pair them with a smart structured jacket for a dressier feel.
# When choosing a simple dress, avoid dull colours as they will make you look dowdy. Go for striking colours like bright pink or blue to make a posh statement.
# Jazz up your outfit with bold accessories in metallic hues to get the luxe look.
This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times.
