6 Summer Trends You Can 100% Buy on a Budget

It's tricky to find affordable pieces that look luxe throughout the winter (cheap coats, for example, can often be spotted a mile off). There's something about the comparative simplification of summer dressing, however, that allows it. Cheeky, irreverent trends are created by high-fashion houses and high-street megaliths alike (who can really tell apart a $30 leather thong sandal from a $345 pair?).

My extensive trawling through the high street has resulted in two things. Firstly, I dropped a whole heap of cash at Zara and & Mango, and secondly, I started noticing some common threads that pull all the chicest items on the high street together. There are certain trends you can get away with pretending you spent a fortune on, like gold pendant necklaces (medallions always look pricey) and chunkier ribbed-knit tanks (almost all our high-street faves have a version).

Keep scrolling to see the seven key affordable summer trends you can invest in now.

Chunky ribbed-knit tanks are not only the most versatile pieces in my wardrobe (yes, I own them in brown, cream and black), but they also always look really expensive. Racer-backs are having a real moment this summer, as Lindsey Holland proves in her black tank. Another great tip is to size up in these, as they look chicer a bit looser.

Prairie-style dresses are having a real moment right now, and finally they've arrived at a price we can afford. Think big sleeves, summery prints and long hemlines that make them a comfortable option for the heat. If you prefer something shorter, & Other Stories has really nailed the mini-prairie.

Grown-up flip flops have taken over our 'gram recently, and they just might be the most expensive-looking sandals of the summer. Whether you're a flats girl or prefer kitten heels, their simplicity means no one will be able to tell if you've paid $30 or $350 for them.

The white shirt will always be a summer favorite for us, and the more "extra" they are, the more expensive they look. While we can't help but drool over Pernille's Attico blouse, we've found a few that are more budget-friendly.

If you want your jewelry to look super-spendy without the hefty price tag, the key is to layer a few different length pendants on finer chains. You can also count on our findings to not turn green after five minutes of wearing them.

It can be difficult to find shorts that feel grown-up and look elevated, but we really love long tailored shorts that you can wear with T-shirts or a blazer for a more executive look.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.