One of the things I’ve learned over the years is that elegance, like many other things in life, can be learned. And we get better at it with experience.
Getting older does have its advantages, after all. It’s not all wrinkles and hot flashes. 🙂
Back in 2020, I did a video called How To Look Chic Without Spending A Lot of Money, and since then, I’ve had many requests for a part deux. This one is extra special because it’s my first collaboration with LilySilk! I have been in love with LilySilk for the last couple of years, after I saw other channels feature the brand’s beautiful blouses, bedding, and accessories, and I was so excited when they reached out to partner with me.
Here are some of the pieces I tried as part of the collaboration!
Extra 12% off LILYSILK everything coupon code: nada12
Extra 20% off over $200 coupon code: nada20, valid until June 30.
Lilysilk:
https://me.lilysilk.com/3KhNsj2
Blouse: https://me.lilysilk.com/32ao2CI
Silk Pillowcase: https://me.lilysilk.com/3nxPwcS
Sleeping cap: https://me.lilysilk.com/3rrI2Jo
Scrunchies：https://me.lilysilk.com/3GPXZ2R
Thanks again to LilySilk for partnering with me on today’s video!
And now for the tips!
Take a wardrobe staple, like a tee or a basic sweater, and elevate it in a luxurious fabric like silk or cashmere for an easy upgrade. Silk and cashmere can be affordable and easy to care for, and they last longer and feel more elegant than synthetic fabrics.
The most expensive clothes will look cheap if they don’t fit properly, but all of your clothes will look more elegant and more expensive, no matter what you paid for them, if you make little tweaks to customize the fit. Darts, tucks, and hems can mean the difference between an elegant look and a sloppy one.
When your budget is limited, invest in classic, timeless and simple pieces for a wardrobe that is versatile and chic. These are the pieces that will hold their value over time and that you’ll be able to wear over and over again. Wait until you have these pieces in your wardrobe before splurging on trendy or statement pieces.
The finishing touches on an outfit make all the difference between a chic and a shabby look. Buttons, seams, patterns that line up properly, fabric, hems, hardware, and other details can make or break an elegant look.
Even the simplest and most basic outfit will look elegant with the right accessories. Delicate, fine and semi-fine jewelry as well as leather belts, bags, and shoes can turn your wardrobe essentials into chic outfits. Accessories can also be worn on repeat, so invest in the best you can afford and you won’t regret it.
This might not sound like a budget-friendly tip, but with sites like The Real Real, Vestiaire Collective and evne Poshmark a chic designer bag is within almost everyone’s reach. Choose your most versatile neutral and a simple timeless style with minimal hardware and high-quality leather for an investment that will elevate everything from distressed denim to loungewear.
And now I’d love to hear from you! Which of my #lilysilk faves is your favorite? And which of these tips will you be trying to look elegant without spending a lot of money? Let me know in the comments!
Lilly says
I too fell in love with LilySilk a while back after receiving a promo code. I bought 2 shirts. The navy is absolutely soft, gorgeous and feels great. The white one does not feel like silk to me – and the only way to test it would be to burn a little bit of the fabric, which I am not willing to do! Haha…
Also, the fit is quite loose and not tailored as I expected a more refined garment to be. However, I can sew and will definitely add darts to these shirts to make them more tailored to my body.
I have since bought two other items from them – silk turtlenecks. I am not a turtleneck fan, but thought they would feel good in silk and look better than the thick cotton variety. I have worn them under sweaters and shirts and they feel great.
I might try their sweaters and tees also since the more affordable ones seem to have got cheaper and both fabric quality and fit. I do not like tees in synthetic fabrics – they look worn out in no time and also don’t feel good in hot weather. So, I might just use your discount code to try their silk tees : )
The only problem with LilySilk for me is the overpackaging! A little more concern for the environment in this day and age would be appreciated. A heavy cardboard box for every item that is then individually wrapped in tissue paper is unnecessary in my view. It also makes the package heavier.