8 Fashion Trends That Look Expensive But Aren’t (2026 Style Guide)

One of the standout styles on my list of 8 Fashion Trends That Look Expensive But Aren’t is wearing bomber jackets zipped all the way up and styled as tops rather than outerwear. I love this trend because it feels modern, confident, and very fashion-forward, but it’s also incredibly flattering. By zipping the jacket and slightly tucking it under, it naturally hits at the smallest part of my waist, which instantly creates a more streamlined silhouette.

I styled this look with a rich burgundy bomber jacket that looks far more expensive than it is. Burgundy continues to be a major color going into 2026, and it always adds a luxe feel to denim. Paired with dark, clean jeans, this outfit elongates the legs and feels incredibly polished. I’m wearing an XS in the bomber and a 24 in the jeans, and everything fits true to size.

Another one of the 8 Fashion Trends That Look Expensive But Aren’t is the move away from chunky dad sneakers and toward sleek, slim sneakers. I personally love this shift because it instantly makes an outfit look cleaner, more elevated, and more intentional. Slim sneakers still give you comfort, but with a much more refined look.

Here, I paired black slim sneakers with a thin cashmere sweater and easy wide-leg pants. I absolutely love this Quince cashmere knit because it layers beautifully without bulk, which is key when you want to look expensive. Finished with a faux fur or a cropped vest, this look feels cozy, chic, and very wearable. I’m wearing an XS in the sweater and pants, and I’d stick with your regular size for the best fit.

If there’s one jacket you need in 2026, it’s the bomber. Whether it’s leather or wool, bombers are everywhere right now and aren’t going anywhere in the following year. I love them because they’re trendy without feeling trendy, meaning they’ll stay in your closet for years.

I’m wearing both a black real-leather bomber and a brown wool bomber from Quince. The leather version has a beautiful tailored fit and subtle gold hardware, while the wool bomber looks incredibly luxurious and timeless. I styled both with the same base outfit to show how easily you can switch jackets and completely change the vibe. I’m wearing an XS in both jackets and a 24 in the jeans, and they fit like a dream.

Dark wash jeans are another key element on my list of 2026 fashion trends that look expensive. I especially love dark wash barrel jean and wide leg styles. These silhouettes are comfortable, flattering, and very current. Dark denim automatically looks more elevated and polished, which is exactly what we want heading into 2026.

I styled these wide leg jeans from Express with a structured top and a luxe faux fur jacket. Keeping the top half fitted creates balance, which is essential when wearing the wider style of denim. This outfit feels elegant, wearable, and incredibly chic. I’m wearing a size o in the jeans and would stay with your true size.

Texture plays a huge role in making outfits look expensive, which is why faux fur and leopard print are included in my 8 Fashion Trends That Look Expensive But Aren’t. I’ve always loved faux fur because it instantly elevates even the simplest outfit, and leopard is one of the few prints I truly believe is timeless.

I paired a leopard faux-fur jacket with a camel cashmere sweater and charcoal denim for a look that feels bold yet refined. The neutral tones keep everything balanced and sophisticated. I’m wearing an XS in the jacket, and the fit is perfect.

Fringe is one of the most fun surprises on my list of the hottest 2026 fashion trends! I love fringe because it adds movement, personality, and a little drama without feeling over the top. When it’s done in rich tones and clean silhouettes, it looks incredibly chic.

This chocolate brown fringe cardigan is such a standout piece. The structured shoulders, gold buttons, and deep color make it look far more expensive than it is. Styled with a burgundy top and classic denim, it feels polished yet playful. I’m wearing an XS and would stick with your regular size.

Elevated athleisure absolutely deserves a spot on my list of 8 Fashion Trends That Look Expensive But Aren’t. I love lounge sets that still look intentional, especially when they’re done in luxe fabrics like cashmere. Comfort does not have to mean sloppy, and this trend proves that.

This matching cashmere sweater and jogger set feels incredibly soft and refined. I styled it with a brown puffer jacket for a monochromatic look that feels modern and pulled together. I’m wearing an XS in both pieces, and they fit perfectly without being snug.

Mixing prints is technically one of the big 2026 runway trends, but it’s the one thing I’m personally skipping from these 8 Fashion Trends That Look Expensive But Aren’t. While it can look fashion-forward on some people, I prefer a more refined, cohesive look built on texture, fit, and rich color rather than multiple prints.

For me, sticking to luxe fabrics, classic silhouettes, and thoughtful layering will always look more expensive and timeless. So, if you’re in the same boat as me, I would opt for a sleek monochromatic look in one of the hottest colors of 2026: burgundy. I love the way this one is styled — with clean lines and rich tones, it makes everything look effortless and elevated. It’s the kind of outfit that embodies the “expensive-looking but budget-friendly” vibe I’m always channeling.