How to Look Luxe This Summer—Without Blowing Your Budget
Let’s be real: we all want to look like we’re sipping rosé on a yacht in the Amalfi Coast, even if we’re just grabbing iced coffee on a Tuesday. The good news? You don’t need designer price tags to serve expensive energy.
This summer, it’s all about effortless elegance, and your bank account gets to chill too.
Here’s how to master the “quiet luxury” look without maxing out your card.
The Summer Luxe Starter Pack
Crisp Linen Everything
Linen pants. Linen shirts. Linen anything. This fabric screams, “I have a vacation home I never talk about.” Look for high-waisted trousers in cream or oat tones. Pair with a tank or a loose button-down and boom—you’re coastal cool.
Pro tip: Zara and H&M have killer linen dupes right now.
White Tanks That Slay
Think 90s Calvin Klein energy. A well-fitted white tank top (bonus points for ribbed texture) is the silent hero of any luxe look. Tuck it into wide-leg pants or under a vest for a clean, effortless vibe.
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Monochrome is Your Best Friend
White-on-white, beige-on-beige, black-on-black—it always looks elevated. Don’t worry if the shades don’t match exactly. Slight contrast adds depth and vibe.
Tailored Vests = Instant CEO Energy
Worn alone or over your fave tank, a fitted vest is the ultimate glow-up piece. You look like you own something, probably a vineyard.
Slick Bun + Gold Jewelry = Rich Aunt Starter Kit
Pull your hair back, throw on chunky gold hoops or a layered chain, and finish with a soft vanilla perfume. You now radiate “casually rich, possibly mysterious.”
Bonus Luxe-on-a-Budget Tips
Shoes: A pop of pink via ballet flats or statement sneakers adds fun without killing the vibe.
Bags: Go for structure: think top-handle or baguette styles. Faux leather is your friend.
Sunglasses: Oversized. Dramatic. The kind that makes people think you might be famous in France.
Wanna Show Off?Try the “Luxe Summer Look Challenge”:
Post your outfit using what you already own. Mix in one or two affordable additions. Tag it #BudgetLuxe and #Mezamoda so we can all hype you up like you do own that yacht (manifest it, right?).Inspired by the It-Girls:Who What Wear’s Luxe Summer LooksMarie Claire’s Minimalist Style TipsGlamour’s Affordable Summer Staples
Now go out there, spritz on that perfume, and walk like your sandals cost $900 even if they didn’t.