Our Men’s Style Guide to Dressing Rich & Spending Less

The 2025 Men’s Style Guide to looking high-end without breaking the bank

In 2025, ‘Quiet Luxury’ is having its moment. Looking expensive now has less to do with designer logos and more to do with intention. Quiet Luxury is all about mastering fit, choosing the right textures, and understanding how to layer your pieces. Whether you’re into this specific aesthetic or just tired of looking like everyone else, our men’s style guide breaks down how to elevate your wardrobe without emptying your wallet.

Stick to a Neutral Color Palette

The easiest way to look expensive without trying is by simplifying your colour choices. Think black, white, beiges and creams — colours that feel timeless, clean, and elevated. These shades well with each other, and they also make even the most affordable pieces look more refined.

Avoid loud logos or trendy designer pieces at all costs. A $60 well fitted crewneck will always look sharper than the $150 printed designer hoodie.

Prioritize Fit Over Flash

You can wear the most expensive brand in the world, but if the fit is off, the whole look falls apart. On the flip side, a $50 pair of bottoms that fit properly will always beat designer pants that bunch or sag.

When shopping, skip the tight clothing and try to look for pieces that skim your body. Focus on structure: cropped or tapered trousers, boxy but sharp jackets, and tees that hit mid-bicep and sit just below the belt line.

Texture Talks—Let Your Outfit Speak

The fabric a piece is made from says everything about it. Cheap synthetics look shiny, feel off, and wrinkle fast. So, if you opt for natural or textured materials like heavyweight cotton, wool blends, twill, brushed suede — you’ll look instantly elevated, even if the brand is budget.

Brands like Uniqlo U, COS, and Everlane do this well: offering rich-feeling basics without the luxury markup. When in doubt, run your hand over the fabric and if it feels soft, structured, or weighty, it’ll likely look more expensive too.

The Art of Accessories

Quality accessories speak volumes and are where affordable style can level up fast. A clean watch, structured tote bag, or thin silver/gold jewelry adds polish without effort — and without screaming for attention. These small details create the illusion of intentionality, which is exactly what expensive dressing is about.

Stick to timeless shapes and neutral tones: tortoiseshell sunglasses, black or beige baseball caps, a leather belt with a matte buckle. Avoid anything too shiny, oversized, or heavily branded. The goal is to look refined, not like you’re trying to flex.

Master the Layer Game

Nothing says “expensive” like a layered look that feels effortless. Great layering adds depth, contrast, and intentionality — all things people associate with high-end style. The key is to combine pieces with different textures and weights, while keeping the colour palette neutral and cohesive.Think of combos like: A beige trench coat over a charcoal knit polo, a light bomber layered with a crisp white tee and relaxed trousers – you get the idea.

Layering is especially powerful in transitional seasons like spring or fall. Even by simply adding a third piece (like an over shirt for warmth) you are instantly elevating your look without even trying.

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Summary: Looking expensive isn’t about how much you spend — it’s about how intentional you are with what you wear. By focusing on fit, fabric, colour, and detail, you can build a wardrobe that feels elevated without the designer price tags.