I think we can all admit that sometimes, we just need to confide in our friends when shopping. There’s always one go-to group chat where outfits are approved, indulgent purchases are mulled over, and like-minded shopping opinions are shared. Since dresses are such an easy one-and-done purchase, I often find the category dominates the chat. In fact, one of our favorite pastimes is finding dresses that look like they are over $1000 but shockingly cost much less.
The best part? There is actually a plethora of dresses on the market, all of which look incredibly luxe without costing an arm and a leg. There are particular design details that have proven—time after time—to instantly elevate a dress. Think sophisticated fabrics like satins and silks or tasteful seaming details and cut-outs. Ahead, we’ve put together 29 expensive-looking dresses that will have your jaw on the floor because they’re all under $99. So spread the word to your fellow fashion confidants, and happy shopping!
Just in case you’re planning a mid-winter tropical getaway.Bonus: This color will work equally well for spring.A dress that leaves an impression!For when you’re in cozy mode.The ’20s feel of this embellished dress is just right.Sometimes, a pretty print is all you need.Ponte is a fabric known for smoothing your figure.Ribbing always looks expensive.Hey, fruity cutie!Can you tell we’re into cut-outs right now? This dress isn't quite under $99, but we we couldn't resist including it anyway.My, what a gorgeous color.Bra-friendly cut-outs are always welcome.Your polo dress is now ready for winter.This dress just has an ease to it.This is apparently two pieces, but it just looks like a cool cut-out dress.That neckline! Why is oatmeal one of the all-time greatest sweater colors?An easy dress to wear all year round.This dress has outrageously good reviews.Cocktail hour just got more stylish.A vision in pink!Add boots, and you’re ready to go.I’m into that fluted skirt!Proof that cottagecore works in the winter, too.Cherry print works all year round.Keyholes are the quickest way to my cart—I mean, heart.Zara’s styling ideas for this metallic midi are genius.I love the texture.This dress is sold out in black, and I think that’s a sign to go for the bold pink.
When it comes to shopping decisions, sometimes, our hands are simply tied. When we see something magnificent, we know it, and we have no choice but to add it to our carts. After all, you can always tell yourself you'll return it later (even if you don't quite get around to it and are secretly glad youhadto keep it).
Naturally, one of our favorite ways to get inspired by the latest and greatest shopping finds is to check the feeds of the most stylish influencers. These trendsetting people take photos for a living, so they know a thing or two about which pieces are going to look prime in a pic. Yes, they specialize in photogenic pieces, and yes, we will gladly take their cues. Who doesn't want to look great IRLandin all your photos? Keep scrolling to check out the key pieces that make these outfits stand out, from luxe faux leather to an expensive-looking ribbed travel set.
We love a monochrome look, and this one is sending us! The silky material looks luxe, and the draping and knot details are just the cherry on top. We love an unexpected shoe moment, too.Yes, it's another monochrome moment, but don't pretend you're mad. If the previous was dressy, this lady is straight-up chill. This outfit is exactly how we're going to look cute on travel days.It's clear by now: We love a total look. Don't tell us you're not into this olive perfection. It's tailored, it's eye-catching, and we love to see it.Vegan leather is such a gift. It looks way more expensive than it is, which is only part of the reason why we love this outfit. The wine-colored keyhole bodysuit is the other reason. It is cozy season, and we would never leave you hanging without plenty of outfit inspiration. Can we talk about the way this racer-front tank and cardigan were made for each other? It's a match made in photogenic heaven.This outfit is a vibe. A retro button-down meets psychedelic pants, and we're in love. If it's chilly where you live, just top with your favorite oversize coat. We're deeply in love with this unexpected, laid-back combo. We think this is our new "running errands and looking straight-up cool" look. And y'all thought stripes were preppy! Next up, check out the three simple pieces that make up our senior editor's favorite outfits.
