The Secret to Mixing High/Low

Everyone has their own things they like to splurge on, but for me it’s typically handbags, shoes, denim, and t-shirts (in that order). My reasoning for why these are my splurge items is because they are the most practical wardrobe pieces for my lifestyle and what I know I will be getting the most use out of. Whenever I am doing wardrobe consulting, I always ask my client what a typical day looks like for them in terms of their career, hobbies, and lifestyle because this is definitely something to consider when looking at what to splurge and save on!

For me, I spend a lot of my time either on the go or working from home. Let’s be real…my preference has always been first and foremost COMFORT but with this type of working lifestyle, being comfortable and casual is even more of a priority in my wardrobe. And although I see each of these as splurge worthy items, I don’t always wear them all at once. In fact, one of my favorite things to do when getting dressed is to make something cheap look expensive because I see it as a challenge. Anyone can wear full designer looks every day and look incredible right?

Below are my 4 keys to mixing high/low and achieving an overall “expensive” looking outfit…

ALL PHOTOS BRI COSTELLO

HIGH WAIST WIDE LEG CROP JEANS (ON SALE UNDER $35, FIT TTS + SOO SOFT) | ROUND SUNGLASSES | COLORBLOCK VINTAGE COTTON TEE | WOVEN FLATS (OLD, SIMILAR SLIP-ON SNEAKER) | GUCCI MARMONT MATELASSE BAG

4 Keys to Mixing High/Low:

  1. Balance: This one seems obvious, but it’s all about balance. When you pair your $35 jeans with a designer t-shirt or bag that’s on trend, no one is going to be questioning the price tag on the rest of your outfit!
  2. Shoes or Handbag: nothing transforms a cheap dress like a trending designer handbag or pair of killer shoes. One of my favorite Fashion Week stories was when I came out of a show and this woman that was decked out in Chanel from head-to-toe told me she loved my jumpsuit and said “who makes that piece?!” …I quickly responded “thank you! Forever 21… under $20” (her face and reaction were both priceless). I had paired the jumpsuit with a vintage Chanel necklace and a Celine handbag 🙂
  3. Create the look around 1 standout piece: If that’s your shoes, handbag (as I did here). Start with 1 standout splurge piece and then create your entire look around it so that item is center of attention!
  4. Simple is always better when saving: when you’re looking for something to complete your look that you don’t want to splurge on, I think simple is always better. For instance….these jeans are very simple. The wash, silhouette, and lack of holes/patches or designs on them makes them a simple pair that I can wear with other classic pieces I’ve invested in.

I realize my splurge pieces are going to be different than everyone else’s and we do not all have the same splurging budget. However, I think these rules can be applied regardless of what that budget might be so that the pieces you are investing in are standing out when you get dressed! xx

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4 Comments

  1. Carey 04.19.17

    Love this look!

    xo, Carey
    https://thedaintydetails.wordpress.com

    Reply
  2. Liv 04.19.17

    Love your style!

    Liv

    livforstyle.net

    Reply
  3. Katy

    04.21.17

    Great post! Im totally with you on mixing high and low- shoes and handbags are my splurge items. Classic coats are a very close second. Trend items are easy to buy low and mix in with higher-end classics.

    Im in love with this shirt, though! Tops are usually something I don’t invest a lot in, but when I find something I love (like this) I’ll buy what I love. All rules to out the window. 🙂

    #PBTxSoSage

    Reply
  4. Zoe V 04.22.17

    Great post! love your attention to detail

    Zoe

    rockpapersequins.com

    Reply

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