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LEIGH CAMPBELL: '9 budget fashion buys that look like boujie designer pieces.'

Welcome to the Nothing To Wear Edit where each week we curate the best picks from the topic we spoke about on the podcast. Listen to the full episode here.


This week's episode of Nothing To Wear is all about the origin of some of the most iconic or identifiable design elements in fashion. Where they started, and how they trickle down from luxury high-end labels to the high street.

Inspired by my insightful chat with fashion commentator Glynis Traill-Nash, I've pulled together an edit of beautiful clothes and accessories that look fancy…but don't cost as much as a Ferrari. 

My recommendations on designer-like pieces on a budget.

Lioness Field Of Dreams Maxi Dress, $109.

Lioness Field Of Dreams Maxi Dress. Image: The Iconic.

This dress reminds me of similar styles I've lusted after from Anna Quan and Khaite. Pleated skirts and off-the-shoulder necklines are everywhere right now, so combining both trends for a little over 100 bucks with this stunning maxi is a no brainer. Not into blush pink? There are four other colours to choose from. I also love the navy.

Kmart Intricate Chain Bracelet, $4.

Kmart Intricate Chain Bracelet. Image: Kmart.

Don't want to pay over $5k on a statement chunky bracelet? Don't worry, Kmart has you covered.

&me Women's Relaxed Crew Tee, $8.

&me Women's Relaxed Crew Tee. Image: BigW.

Not all t-shirts are created equal. Little details like a boxy cut, cuffed sleeve and thicker crew neck collar take a simple tee up a notch. Don't want to spend over $1k on a t-shirt from The Row, or even $195 on Sandro Paris? I've got this one from Big W and it's bloody excellent. Grab it in black, beige, green or white (or all four). 

H&M Oversized Denim Shirt, $44.99.

H&M Oversized Denim Shirt. Image: H&M.

I have a penchant for denim shirts because I feel effortless and cool when I throw them on over leggings, or a slip dress, swimmers, or do double denim… there's nothing a cool denim shirt doesn't work with. This oversized cut from H&M is under $50 and comes in both pale and dark blue as well as dark beige and grey. It's a perfect option when you don't want to spend $2000 on this (beautiful) Brunello Cucinelli shirt

Lily Loves High Rise Wide Leg Denim Jeans, $40.

Lily Loves High Rise Wide Leg Denim Jeans. Image: Target.

You don't have to fork out $449 for Slvrlake Wide Leg Jeans when Lily Loves just released an excellent pair for $40. 

Zara ZW Collection Pleated Layered Skirt, $149.

Zara ZW Collection Pleated Layered Skirt. Image: Zara.

My Instagram algorithm has been serving me statement spring skirts for the past few weeks because the clever cookies know I want one to start my spring wardrobe. The ones I've been seeing are from Gucci and Proenza Schouler, which are well and truly out of my budget. Thankfully, this beautiful pink one from Zara ticks all the boxes — pleats and pockets in a flattering midi length.

CHPO Sue Sunglasses, $70.

CHPO Sue Sunglasses. Image: The Iconic.

Love the look of Celine's Cat Eye Sunglasses? Same. This style is similar and much, much cheaper.

4th And Reckless Cali Resort Club Slogan Tee, $70.

4th And Reckless Cali Resort Club Slogan Tee. Image: The Iconic.

I love a slogan or varsity tee with wide leg suit pants to make the tailored bottoms feel more casual overall, or to just pair with jeans on the weekend. When I win the lotto (after I one day buy a ticket) I'll buy one from Celine. I've also had an Anine Bing option on my wishlist but haven't pulled the trigger. Now that I've found this 4th And Reckless option I think my mission is over.

Target Moulded Sandal, $35.

Womens Moulded Sandal - Hope - Brown. Image: Target.

Hermes may have started it, but you can get a similar look when it comes to cool sandals for a lot less.

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Feature image: Supplied.

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