I'm A Bougie Stylist & I Love These Cool Things Under $30 On Amazon

We could all use something to make our lives look and feel a little more groovy and luxe, like these oversized aviator sunglasses that NYC-based wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson recommends. They’re a whole vibe with their head-turning frames, range of tinted hues, and teardrop-end stems. Get them to mix sun protection with attitude, stylishly.

• Available frame colors: 14
• Available lens colors: 6

According to strategic image consultant Kendra LaSalle, this woven handbag is on her list “because it works beautifully as both an evening clutch and a crossbody.” With two interior compartments, one zipped and one open, it provides ample room to carry essentials, and is a designer-inspired piece that’s a pretty good replica of one that retails for over $4,000.

• Available colors: 16

“This multicolor wrap looks expensive and adds a fun pop to any simple look,” says Boston- and NYC-based wardrobe stylist, Taylor Greeley. “The quality is super soft too!” Designed with an A-list aesthetic, its colorblock style is ready to bring runway-ready looks over your monochromatic knits and simple coats this scarf season.

• Available colors: 8

If you’re looking for an easy way to seriously elevate a standard-looking outfit, wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson recommends this set of chunky cuff bracelets. She considers this type of jewelry, “a timeless staple — versatile, chic, and easy to style.” They’re available as a trio — in several shapes and finishes — and can be stacked together or worn solo.

• Available colors: 4

You’ll find it hard not to delight in this floaty, ruffle-hemmed top, which comes highly recommended by strategic image consultant Kendra LaSalle. “It passes the bougie test because it’s on trend, can be styled feminine or maximal, and layers beautifully.” For the most elevated iteration, LaSalle suggests it in either the apricot or red shades.

• Available sizes: Small — Large
• Available colors: 7

“These sneakers are a must-have because they’re stylish and practical,” wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson affirms. They’re “comfortable for everyday wear while adding a bold touch to any outfit,” she says. From the rugged, soccer-inspired tongue overlay that’s offset by the playful (read: standout) metallic finish, these will earn the trophy for top spot in your everyday shoe collection.

• Available sizes: 6.5 — 10
• Available colors: 6

To infuse your closet with luxe-looking lounge pieces, Katie Schuppler, wardrobe stylist and owner at KS Style Consulting, suggests these pull-on harem pants. They’re designed with an easy elasticated waist in a poly-cotton blend, making them a lightweight option to grab instead of thick fleece sweats. You’ll be blown away by their comfort and the baggy fit that tapers at the ankle, allowing you to style them for both outings and at-home hangs.

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 14

VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon, the fashionable sisters behind the Instagram page stylishlysolomon, suggest adding this adorable mini crossbody handbag to your cart. They describe it as a “must-have,” and it’s not hard to understand why; from its trend-forward shape, its compact (but convenient) design, to its versatility to be worn as a clutch or strapped over your shoulder, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to look chic and travel light to events and outings. As for the detachable cherry key chain — one you’ll never want to actually detach — it’ll earn you a ton of sweet compliments.

• Available colors: 4

NYC-based wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson’s mantra of “Style isn’t just what you wear — it’s also the everyday products you use,” rings true with her recommendation of this customizable brush, which she says makes her daily routine feel “elevated.” It’s available in several luminescent finishes that’ll upgrade the feel of your hair-brushing experience. Shoppers also note that this gently detangles with its round-edged bristles.

• Available styles: 11

For a Cartier-inspired lookalike, look no further than this bracelet set that VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon recommend. The recognizable shape adds a touch of shine with cubic zirconia gems set within its circumference. Crafted from 18-karat gold-plated stainless steel materials, they’re sturdy for everyday wear. One shopper noted that they’ve worn them in the shower, in the pool, and at the beach, and their color and shininess look as good as the day they bought them.

• Available colors: 18

For a can’t-miss style, fashion influencer Jessica Camerata of indigo day is talking polished sleeveless tops. She says, “A vest has quickly become an essential in my closet, and I think they are super versatile. Plus, they will help you transition from summer to fall with ease.” For an easy-to-integrate option, this V-neck vest leaves room for layering and jewelry. “Pair with denim, or even poplin skirts. They’re also my go-to top of choice when I need to be in a nicer top that isn’t a tee,” adds Camerata.

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 6

Baggy and bougie, these high-waisted trousers are a practical and playful pick from Elana and Dina Solomon, VIP stylists and the creatives behind stylishlysolomon. They feature a stretchy pull-on design mixed with a sleepwear-adjacent stripe that’s super on-trend, and they’re blended with cotton for a breathable feel. Some styling tips? The sisters suggest that these “look impossibly chic with strappy heels or serve as an effortlessly cool beach cover-up.”

• Available sizes: Small — Large
• Available colors: 7

We could all use a go-to shoe to get us through warmer outdoor occasions. These simple strappy gladiator sandals receive praise for doing just that: “These flats look expensive but are a steal!” fashion expert Nina Lato raves, adding, “They have an elevated look to them and are perfect for a range of occasions!” Edgy and versatile, the straps allow you to experiment with their placement, wrapping them high along your ankle or keeping them low and minimal.

• Available sizes: 5 — 11
• Available colors: 14

Shockingly affordable, this trio of layered gold necklaces puts the final touches on any outfit to leave a lasting impression. “I love this one because the different chain textures make it look high-end,” shares personal stylist and style coach Samantha Dawn. Varying in lengths, this set comes with three separate chain styles that can be worn together or separately.

• Available styles: 4

Here for another straight-off-the-runway look? These Céline-inspired sunnies that, according to VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon, “prove you don’t have to spend designer dollars to get the designer effect.” They’re sturdy and their dark lenses effectively reduce glare, as noted by shoppers, making them a stylish and practical option for sunny occasions.

• Available colors: 8

For anyone considering the fisherman flat trend, opt for these mesh ballet flats, recommended by fashion expert Nina Lato. “They are beyond comfortable and go with so many dresses and styles,” she notes, stating that they make a great alternative to Alaia’s styles. “These can easily become a closet staple at a fraction of the cost!” Secured with an adjustable strap and offering all-day airflow that’s a step up from your flip-flops, these are a wardrobe winner.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 3

“These chunky knot earrings instantly elevate any outfit,” says Samantha Dawn, personal stylist and style coach, adding that they “have that timeless, polished feel you’d expect from a high-end brand.” Available in 14-karat gold plating and various knot designs, “They’re lightweight, comfortable for all-day wear, and the gold tone looks rich and luxe, not cheap.”

• Available colors: 11

“To tackle a few trends in one, this chocolate brown polka-dot top is great for date night with a straight-leg jean or a pair of trousers,” gushes fashion influencer Jessica Camerata of indigo day. “The skinny neck scarf is such a cool and fun detail that makes this tube top feel more like a chic ‘going out top.’” It’s an It Girl look that’s easily achievable for under $30 — and without the need for an on-call stylist.

• Available sizes: XX-Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 6

“A brown belt with gold hardware is an autumn essential,” shares wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson, who tells Bustle that this glossy option is in her own shopping cart. It’s designed with a distressed edge and an angled, asymmetrical buckle that Anderson believes “pulls your whole look together and looks expensive!” Loop this into a tailored style for a magazine spread-worthy look.

• Available sizes: Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 9

“I've also been totally fixated on satin hair bows lately,” says Julia Pukhalskaia of Mermaid Way. “They make even the most basic ponytail look polished and intentional.” She recommends this ridiculously adorable collection of bows that you can easily clip into ponytails and half-up styles to elevate the look of your ‘dos instantly.

Soft and sumptuous, this oversized knit sweater will have you begging for the temps to drop so you can engulf yourself inside of it. “I love this cozy sweater that pairs well with many types of bottoms,” says Lead Stylist with Artists with Agency, Taylor Greeley. Grab it now and you’ll thank us later.

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 8

To go along with your statement sunnies, wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson says you’ll need these Bottega-inspired glasses cases. “So so chic,” she raves about these diamond grid woven pouches. You’ll get two faux leather styles in each pack that’ll keep your designer-inspired shades free from damage.

• Available colors: 14

Suppose you’re not ready to splurge on the Panthère de Cartier watch. In that case, this vintage-inspired timepiece comes backed by both wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson, as well as Taylor Greeley, a Boston- and NYC-based wardrobe stylist and Lead Stylist with Artists with Agency. “It’s the high-end-looking accessory you can add to your existing stack of jewelry or show off on its own,” Greeley tells Bustle, while Anderson dotes on how much she loves the mixed metals.

• Available colors: 4

“A structured small shoulder bag has become a go-to favorite style in my closet,” explains fashion influencer Jessica Camerata of indigo day. Her under-$30 recommendation is a stylish and practical option that comes in hues like rich burgundy, cherry red, or chocolate brown, perfect for this season. “This shape feels trendy without being over the top to help complete your outfits,” Camerata adds.

• Available colors: 13

These tweed slingback sandals harbor an elegant and sassy sensibility, making them “worth adding to cart,” according to VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon. They make your workwear look rather adorable with a contrast closed-toe design and vibrant patchwork exterior. Hundreds of shoppers mentioned in the reviews that they opted for these over designer versions, and the height of the heel is favorable and practical.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 13

These thong-toe kitten heels are far from a flop. “They’re comfortable, chic, and the minimalist shape, paired with a sleek heel, makes them look high-end with anything,” Indianapolis-based style psychology and strategic image consultant Kendra LaSalle states. “I love them most for dressing up super casual outfits so they feel intentional without trying.” The heel is modest and walkable, while their style will leave you gushing with the influx of compliments you’ll receive.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 8

A high-end feel with high-end appeal, these chunky hoop earrings come in varying sizes to fit multiple piercings. They’re the chic and simple everyday accessory that’ll quickly become part of your uniform, as recommended by VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon. Made with 14-karat gold-plated materials, they’re hypoallergenic and won’t weigh your lobes down.

• Available colors: 3

This cropped shirt is “the ultimate tee you’ll reach for on repeat,” according to Elana and Dina Solomon of stylishlysolomon. Make it part of your capsule wardrobe that’ll transcend seasons and occasions — from daytime lounge looks to evening outings. It’s buttery-soft and slightly stretchy, designed with a drop-shoulder fit.

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 22

“This bodysuit looks and feels like SKIMS! It’s seamless and chic,” raves fashion expert Nina Lato. Plus, it serves as a great foundational piece you’ll get a ton of wear from. With this, you’ll have some budget left over to grab it in multiples (its hue range is vast) to slip under jeans, shorts, and skirts for a timeless look that’ll never go out of style.

• Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 28

Transform gaping waistlines into a more curve-hugging fit with this duo of skinny belts, suggested by VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon. Adorned with gold buckle accents in a faux leather material and a slender design, these can slide easily within the loops of shorts and jeans without fuss. They’d also make a great addition to baggy dresses, creating instant dimension and shape.

• Available sizes: 26-30 inches — 44-49 inches
• Available colors: 7

“The poplin midi and maxi skirt trend has been a favorite for summer,” shares fashion influencer Jessica Camerata of indigo day. “This skirt comes in a few colors and is the perfect piece you’ll wear now and well into fall.” It’s a pull-on style free from zippers and trims, and has pockets. “Try it with a loafer with socks, Mary Janes, or even knee-high boots,” recommends Camerata.

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 8

Super lightweight but heavy on the fashion, these chic sunnies can be found in strategic image consultant Kendra LaSalle’s own shopping cart. “They prove that ’90s and Y2K accessories are still going strong [...] but with a modern twist,” according to LaSalle. She says, “these sunglasses check every box with timeless elegance that works for any style preference.”

• Available colors: 12 (multipacks available)

“A stylist’s wardrobe is built on pieces that have the versatility to take a look from elevated day to effortlessly chic night,” VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon note as they suggest this tailored waistcoat vest. It strikes the perfect balance of structure, versatility, and skin-flaunting abilities, as shoppers note that it’s not too tight nor loose. Wear it on its own with mid-rise silhouettes to show off a hint of skin, or layer it over a body-hugging long-sleeve. Long lines make it look practical and polished.

• Available sizes: Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 10

VIP Stylists Elana and Dina Solomon just get it. “We love a bougie-girl moment, but there’s something thrilling about finding a designer-inspired piece that nails the vibe for a fraction of the cost.” Like this straw tote bag they suggest, which marries high-quality materials with a stylish and functional look. Plenty roomy, this bag has enough space to carry both essentials and nice-to-haves.

• Available colors: 2

“I also love this cable-knit sweater, which is so cute with a miniskirt and boots/UGGs or cuffed jeans,” raves Taylor Greeley of Artists with Agency. Grab it in rich hues for a price that’ll leave you with enough money left over to snag the other items she suggests pairing it with. Its long, oversized look is easy to tuck or leave flowing over any bottom layers.

• Available sizes: Small — XX-Large
• Available colors: 14

I’m no psychic, but I predict this slouchy vegan leather bag will easily work its way into anyone’s wardrobe. As personal stylist and style coach, Samantha Dawn states, “This bag is the perfect mix of casual and elevated, making it easy to dress up or down.” With an adjustable strap and a coordinating pouch, it’s an elegant accessory set that’s actually rather practical. “I love that it has a structured shape but still feels soft and slouchy, and it’s roomy enough for all my essentials without feeling bulky,” Dawn adds.

• Available sizes: Medium — Large
• Available colors: 5

The easiest way to solve a fashion formula can be with accessories. Personal stylist and style coach, Samantha Dawn points to these belts to help your outfits “feel styled with intention” while providing structure. This painstakingly stylish set of two comes in several color combinations to go with any existing aesthetic.

• Available sizes: 26-31 inches — 46-50 inches
• Available colors: 7

If you’re looking to bag yourself a high-end-looking accessory without dropping a ton of cash, Julia Pukhalskaia, fashion stylist and CEO of Mermaid Way, suggests this quilted crossbody bag that she says “has some serious Chanel 19 vibes but on a budget.” This one exudes the same quilted, puffy aesthetic as the luxe designer option, leaving enough room for all of your essentials. Better yet, the chain can be adjusted to be worn as a double layer, allowing it to also hang as a chic shoulder bag.

• Available colors: 19

The design of this mock-neck pullover exudes a high-end, elevated style that’s favored not just by Katie Schuppler, of KS Style Consulting, but also several hundred shoppers. More polished than a hoodie, and non-constricting around the neck, fans are raving about the comfortable, oversized fit and refined look this possesses.

• Available sizes: Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 21

These high-waisted bike shorts feature a trendy crossover design, comfort, and a booty-hugging fit, which is no wonder Katie Schuppler, wardrobe stylist and owner at KS Style Consulting, recommends them. Available in a bunch of neutral and bright hues in two inseam lengths, you’ll have your pick of the bunch to work out and run your errands in.

• Available sizes: X-Small — XX-Large (two inseam lengths available)
• Available colors: 27

Looking fashionably astute is easily achievable with these expensive-looking thick-frame glasses. As Artists with Agency’s lead stylist Taylor Greeley points out, “These glasses add that artistic vibe to any look.” With blue-light blocking lenses in various frame and stem designs, they’ll protect your eyes while looking incredibly chic.

• Available colors: 7

Artists with Agency’s Taylor Greeley describes this open-knit cardigan as “another super cute sweater [which] looks like those expensive designer brands but under $30!” Backed by thousands of shoppers, this stylish chunky knit is the perfect weight to wear with tanks and jeans or layer over lounge looks for travel days.

• Available sizes: Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 20

Julia Pukhalskaia, fashion stylist and CEO of Mermaid Way, considers this sleek and simple faux leather Western-style belt a closet staple. “It is understated yet practical, perfect for cinching a sweater dress or dressing up snug-fitting pants,” she says. Conveniently available in several waist sizes and color variations, you can choose the perfect fit to suit your everyday outfit rotation.

• Available sizes: Small — XXX-Large
• Available colors: 8

Add this 18-karat gold-plated mesh-link bracelet to your arm candy collection. “It’s a great stacking piece that you can add to your rotation or everyday wear that looks like the real deal,” notes fashion expert Nina Lato. It’s “perfect to pair with a few other chains or a watch, and you will have everyone doing a double-take.” With an easy-to-use clasp, you can link this up to put the finishing touches on your outfit as you’re heading out the door and grabbing your Uber.

• Available colors: 4

Buttoned up and fabulous, this vest is fan-girled over for being “the kind of piece that instantly makes an outfit feel polished,” says strategic image consultant Kendra LaSalle. Trousers in a coordinating material would make a sublime pairing or, as LaSalle suggests, add it over “jeans to give a casual look a sharper edge.” She adds, “It just reads bougie.”

• Available sizes: Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 14

A style we’re seeing everywhere is an update on the aviator frame. These thick-framed iterations — offered in a bunch of fun-colored lens options — are considered a “must-have” by fashion influencer Jessica Camerata of indigo day and are part of her current accessory lineup. “They’re affordable and can truly refresh an outfit and make it feel more interesting and on trend,” she says.

• Available colors: 13 (multipacks available)

“Say goodbye to the knee-length cardigan, and opt for one that’s shorter and hits at the hip,” advises fashion influencer Jessica Camerata of indigo day. This cozy crew-neck style fits the bill. It’s “perfect for topping simple tanks to go with jeans or trousers for the office.” She adds, “It’s also perfect to wear buttoned up like a sweater.” The iridescent buttons add a luxe touch.

• Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 8

Think up the perfect “slouchy — but not sloppy jeans,” and you’ll get this baggie low-rise pair recommended by VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon. This style is the cling-free fit that’s highly coveted this year for its comfort and versatility. Wear them daily with sleek statement sneakers, ballet flats, or slides — or dress them with a sneaky kitten heel peeking through. They’re perfect for both cropped or long-line tops, depending on how much skin you want to have on show.

• Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 12

Personal stylist and style coach Samantha Dawn notes that built with clean structure and simplicity, “a great blazer is the ultimate fall layering piece.” She suggests this wide-lapel, hip-grazing iteration. “I love throwing this over a fitted turtleneck and jeans or even simple basics to elevate my outfits. It always makes me feel polished and put together with minimal effort.”

• Available sizes: Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 5

“[A] personalized card holder is a YES,” raves wardrobe stylist Shannon Anderson, who points us in the direction of this faux leather croc-designed option. Sleek and easy to store, you can slot in up to six cards and keep them safe from scratches, while saving space in your purse. Make it clear it’s yours by having your initials stamped on it in either gold or silver for an even more bougie customized touch.

• Available colors: 10

In a rich coffee-brown color scheme, this houndstooth skirt is ready to make your acquaintance. Strategic image consultant Kendra LaSalle recommends it “for the way it nails the light or dark academia aesthetic,” she explains. She adds, “The print is heritage-inspired with an upper-crust chic feel, and the tailored shape keeps it polished and refined.” Wear it bare-legged with ballet flats or loafers, or opt for tights and knee-high boots come the fall.

• Available sizes: Medium — X-Large

Pop on these sleek penny loafers to really set your style alight. VIP stylists Elana and Dina Solomon recommend them for their ability to “transition seamlessly from day to night.” Go barefoot beneath cropped pants or shorts, or go bold with white socks and baggy silhouettes to channel an avant-garde It Girl aesthetic.

• Available sizes: 6 — 11
• Available colors: 8

Stocking up on stylish swimsuits is made possible with this two-piece recommendation from fashion expert Nina Lato, who notes this style’s similarities to the texture and ribbing you’d see at expensive brands like Hunza G. “So many colors and options, it’s a great swimsuit staple,” she says. Shoppers have stated that the style is comfortable and offers coverage, showing just the right amount of cheek and shielding everything up top.

• Available sizes: X-Small — X-Large
• Available colors: 26

As far as her latest obsession, Julia Pukhalskaia of Mermaid Way has been eyeing these delicate but daring oversized square sunglasses. “They come with a shiny black acetate-inspired frame and understated gold tone accents along with UV 400 lenses, giving off that ‘quiet luxury’ you’d see in high-end campaigns but at a tenth of the price,” she explains. “I love wearing them with a simple white tee, drawstring jeans, and loafers. It simply enhances the entire outfit.”

With a refined hammered texture set against a beveled edge, these gold-plated hoop earrings appear more luxurious than their wallet-friendly price tag suggests. Mermaid Way’s Julia Pukhalskaia, says, “They have a golden warm plating and are so light that you can wear them every day, but [they’re] tough enough to define your face [...] I’ve styled them with everything from silk slip dresses to oversized blazers and sneakers.”

• Available colors: 8