It's True: These 5 Expensive-Looking Accessories Always Get Me Compliments

If it isn't "brat Summer" or "clean girl", it's "underconsumption core" trending on TikTok. And as someone who is trying to be more conscious about what I buy after a giant wardrobe cleanse (largely due to an upcoming house move), I won't be buying into all of these passing trends. Which, I guess, actually means I'm accidentally tapping into the "underconsumption core" minimalist life vibe. Instead of dashing out to buy everything lime green, I'm more impressed by the simple wardrobe additions that'll make every outfit look premium––enter: expensive-looking accessories.

If you shop wisely, the addition of a great bag (it's all about suede this year), silver buckled belts or a go-with-everything pair of sunglasses is sometimes all you need to elevate your look. And let me tell you, these don't have to be designer. Luxe-looking accessories can be found all over the high street, and there are the 5 in particular that often get mistaken as high-end when I wear them.

No doubt you most likely already own them, but here's some inspiration on how to style them––the 2024 way.

1. Suede Bags

Style Notes: Nothing can beat a buttery soft suede bag, in a tonal shade. Worn by the elite women of Instagram on repeat this year, the high street has pulled through with premium iterations that will look as sleek as their designer counterparts. The bigger the better for this one, it's all about getting that slouchy look.

Shop the Look:

Arket

Curved Suede Bag

£179

Extra points for the shape.

Zara

Split Leather Bag With Cord Strap

£149

This bag is huge IRL, so it's ticking off two trends in one.

ASOS DESIGN

Suede Tote Bag With Tubular Piping in Tan

£50

Yep, a real leather bag for £50!

& Other Stories

Large Suede Tote

£145

I've got such a soft spot for anything brown at the moment.

2. Silver Buckle Belts

Style Notes: One loved by minimalists—including Sylvie—the silver trend isn't going anywhere. Making many switch their jewellery metal of choice, now the silver buckled belt is getting its time to shine. And I've found the under-£100 styles you'll want to add to every outfit,

Shop the Look:

Arket

Leather Belt

£57

Arket just never fails, does it?

Whistles

Eyelet Detail Belt

£85

Love the oval buckle on this one.

Massimo Dutti

Studded Leather Belt

£60

This looks very similar to a particular cult designer style.

MANGO

Oval Buckle Belt

£16

Rope belts are very 2024.

3. Plain Gold Jewellery

Style Notes: Sometimes, simple is best––if it isn't broken, and all that. And sleek, minimal jewellery is one of those accessories that prove this theory. Lydia shows how the addition of some skinny gold bangles, chunky rings or fuss-free earrings can make you look instantly pulled-together.

Shop the Look:

Zara

Rigid Choker

£13

Add this to any bandeau top or dress.

H&M

Gold-Plated Dome Earrings

£38

So sleek.

& Other Stories

Wavy Cuff Bracelet

£32

Get two and wear over fine knit jumpers come autumn.

Jigsaw

Molten Stud Earring | Gold

£35

Jigsaw is always one of my favourites for minimalist jewels.

4. Black Sunglasses

Style Notes: Gold frame sunglasses have been big news this season, but I can see them being a passing fad. Instead, opt for a classic black pair that'll go with quite literally any outfit, now, and forever.

Shop the Look:

H&M

Rectangular Sunglasses

£8

H&M is always my go-to for everyday sunnies.

& Other Stories

Edgy Cat-Eye Sunglasses

£32

To wear with literally any outfit.

M&S Collection

Rectangle Sunglasses

£15

Well done, M&S!

Whistles

Isle of Eden Felina Sunglasses

£115

A shape that suits almost anyone.

5. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Yep, the ballet flat is sticking around. And I'm not surprised when the classy shoe can be worn with anything from trousers to skirts and jorts. It's the pairs with strap detail that add that little something extra––as perfectly illustrated by Amira.

Shop the Look:

Massimo Dutti

Soft elastic ballet flats

£100

These also come in cherry red.

Jeffrey Campbell

Moira Mary Jane Flats

£118

Timeless black will always look premium.

Zara

Ballet Flats With Double Strap

£46

Love the double crossover strap on this pair.

Arket

Leather Mary Jane Flats

£159

These brown leather beauties will look so good a light blue shirt and ecru jeans.