How to look expensive on a budget!

I think a lot of us love the idea of an unlimited shopping spree.  There are so many things that I wish I could afford but the fact of the matter is I am a poor college student.  When I started going to the Art Institute of California I found myself feeling embarrassed when I would tell people what my degree was because I felt like I didn’t look the part.  I couldn’t afford the beautiful lavish cloths I see in the magazines.  

Random tangent. I hate the fashion magazines that say budget dressing and all the items are still in the $100-500 range.  

With my frustration and desire to dress to impress I started to observe those that I thought were the best dressed. 

What made them stand out and what should you spend your money on?

•   Tailored or fitted cloths. So many of us are afraid to show our shape that we buy clothing that is too big for us. Shape is better than none.
•   Jewelry!!!!!! Always accessories with fun accent necklaces, shoes, purses.  Go for a watch.  They are classy and can look expensive.
•   Good shoes.  I have this horrible habit of wearing shoes until they fall apart. Don’t follow in my error.  If the shoes start to get beat, through them out!
•   Great accent pieces! This can be done with jewelry however a fabulous blouse or jacket goes a long way.
•  Iron your clothing! Clean pressed and ready to impress!
•   Materials! Sheers, cottons, etc.  Avoid high synthetic counts (30% or more)
•   Jeans are something I like to spend money on but you can buy cheap but if you go cheap go dark.
•   Though its work, Hair! Take time to create a beautiful full look. 

Places to shop on a budget and achieve an expensive look.

•  H&M! Oh how I love them! They have clothing that is well tailored and at a great price. Their goal is to create clothing that is quality at a good price.
•  Charming Charlie’s! Check them out for awesome accessories! From jewelry to purses.
•  Anthropology is very expensive but a great place to hit the sale rack for that awesome signature piece.
•   Hair styles don’t pay a salon.  Go to pinterest.com and look up hair tutorials.
• My final advice. Never rule a store out! Sometimes they might have just the right piece. I love shopping at Good Will of the Desert Industries for fun vintage/retro clothing.