how to look expensive on a budget 

When I was doing my corporate career thing 30 to 40 years ago, I found a shoe repair shop that was a real asset. New rubber heel tips and toe taps were life - and back! - savers. And purse repairs! Straps break, linings split, little brass "feet" break off... even with expensive, good quality bags! I even had good leather "wear patches" attached around and under the handles of my suitcases, briefcase and around the handles of my umbrellas. I always wore classic pumps, t-straps, d'Orsays, peep toes...all with 4" heels and most with matching bags. Eelskin, snakeskin, patent leather, Peau de soie...and ALWAYS with hose! But that's another story! Yes my shoe repair shop was so important to me that I remembered the proprietor's birthday and favorite holiday treats. Sadly, his business died as women started shopping discount outlets and good shoes became disposable.

Oh my goodness! How have I not seen your channel before? As a 60 year old Audrey Coyne devotee I find your content marvelous, your taste,style, and advice impeccable, and your presentation so pleasant, warm, and educational! I love your channel! Now, excuse me while I binge your past videos!

Structure over slouch..so true. Looking straight on, I still have a waistline. From the side, I have a tummy. I used to favor slouch to cover the tummy, then discovered that tops that are more fitted through the waist were considerably more flattering and confidence boosting. So what if you have a tummy? Just avoid looking at yourself from the side. Lol. Or wear layers like jackets, vests or pashminas to compliment and hide simultaneously. Focus on what makes you feel your best.

My new favorite neutral is olive green in all of it's nuances. I love it paired with red for the holidays as opposed to pine or spruce green which I do still love! And of course wine/cranberry so stunningly beautiful! As a women of a "Certain Age", I always try to keep myself classic with maybe just a nod to what's on trend but never anything too slouchy or oversized. So glad you are here, Beth, to keep us on track and from being frumpy!

My mom taught me years ago to pair the classic pieces with the “trendy” pieces and I could not only save $$ but look “stylish”

The black along with the jewelry you are wearing looks so chic.

My 90 year old mother published her storyworth book early this year and she is already at work on a second volume! As much fun as it has been for all the family to read her stories, I think she is enjoying the process more than anyone. Highly recommend the Storyworth! Thank you for discussing it Beth. Happy holidays to you all from Minnesota.

I wear bright solid color tops and black, navy, and gray trousers. I think color blocking is sophisticated. I wear simple jewelry: diamond studs, pearls, hoops, my gold charm bracelet and a watch. I wear flats, but I try to wear pointy toe or almond toe or my booties. I always match my shoes to my trousers. My handbag can be the pop of a third color. I am feeling just fine repeating outfits. This is new to me, but I'm trying to minimize. I adore color & I buy reds, pinks, blues, white, greens, burgundy and gray solid tops and blouses which all match my trousers and jeans. When I find a good pant, I buy it again. I own 3 prs of the same black trousers & 2 prs of the same navy... I rotate so they don't wear out by wearing them every week. I feel chic even if my style has simplified since getting older & divorced. I'm digging my closet now and attitude helps.

I think a smile is so important, too, in first impressions. I noticed that with aging, my features became slightly downturned, giving my neutral, unthinking expression, a slightly grumpy look. So I try to remember to smile, which just lights up everyone’s face and makes us look as friendly and welcoming as we feel. I had a very old great-grandmother who scared me as a child, I realized decades later that it was because she didn’t smile at us children like the other adults did.

Hi Beth great tips, I want to run out and get my hands on a black turtleneck, you look great in this!

I think it’s very important to always be mindful of the fabric you’re wearing . Choose neutral color with good quality fabric like cotton , linen etc. ❤️ all the best

I want to mention something that I’ve noticed, your outfit images are so frequently used as exemplars of great style in so much social media. Great taste💕

Well said. When I was young, an older acquaintance who had worked in fashion retailing counseled me that if you are on a budget, black items will always “read” better than other colors because any sewing and other details will not be as visible so will appear higher quality. Over the decades since, I have observed she was right on that. She often bought extremely inexpensive black skirts, sweaters and trousers but always looked so posh.

I wish I had my Mother and Father’s story immortalized. This is a gift that’s priceless. I totally agree with the structure over slouch and I don’t like heavily distressed jeans. I prefer black or dark wash straight leg denim. You look gorgeous and effortless in everything.

You always look polished and so good in every outfit. Thank you for the well-needed tips.

I love these style secrets. I do own big patterns, but don't tend to wear them as much. More in the summer. I try to do more structured pieces, since I am 5'3" and I have to be careful to not look swallowed up in big boxy slouchy pieces. Thank you on the reminder on this tip. There are so many big slouchy items out there this year, I think they make women look larger than they really are. I just bought a couple pieces and stay with my structured pieces. I love the Storybook idea. I wish I had something like this for my grandparents and parents and even my husband. I think I will do something like this for my children also, although I do scrapbook.

Always great hints. I try to wear some of my smarter clothes even going to the grocery store! I can’t stand sweats or those dreadful flannel pajama bottoms I see people wearing in public. I used to like flannel PJs in the winter for sleeping in but it is hard to do now, as I see them worn inappropriately. I know they are comfortable but…there are other things that are as comfortable and not too expensive that would do.

My youngest son got me StoryWorth for Christmas last year. It’s been a pleasure writing my story for my children and grandkids. I wish we had done this for my husband before he passed away As always Beth, you are such an inspiration to me. Thank you.

Thanks Beth!! Merry Christmas 🎄!

Agree totally, dear Beth. That's how it works.

Beth, I am so glad I found your channel. I have learned so much from you. These are awesome tips for anyone on a budget or not. Thanks for helping me age with grace. Keep the videos coming!

Love your videos!!! Thanks. Keep up the great work! Classy!!!

Thank you for your very helpful tips and advice. You are absolutely gorgeous and always look so elegant. I just ordered my story book. Such a great idea!

I’m trying to build a wardrobe and these tips are helpful. It’s been hard for me to find dress pants. So I’m currently on a hunt for them. Could you do a vlog on classic jewelry and some sources? Thanks!

You’re so lovely talking about anything

I’m working my way, gradually, to a mostly light neutrals wardrobe, that seems to be what I always reach for.

Dear Beth, I have been watching your RU-vid videos for quite some time now and I think that you are absolutely terrific. I love your sense of style and I enjoy 'your company' when I turn to your RU-vid videos. Keep up the good work. Style, Strength and Grace - what lovely words to live up to! Susan

I received Storyworth as a gift from one of my adult children last Christmas and have been writing my book each week this year. It has been fun to have my memory triggered by some of the questions. Thankfully, there is also the option of choosing from a list of extra questions if the current weeks question does not apply to your life. It will be interesting to see the book completed soon!

Absolutely love your videos and your style!

So appreciate this video. I’m grateful for your simple and yet timeless tips 😍

LOVE EVERY ONE OF YR VIDEOS. I’’LL PICK STRUCTURE & CLASSY OVER SLOUCHY EVERY TIME. YOU R MY ROLE MODEL!

Beth this is good tip, I love thank you four the ideas

What a wonderful idea to have a book of memories put together from our loved ones. I always thought I'd remember all the great stories my great grandparents told me over and over during my childhood. However, some of those memories have faded because I'm not constantly hearing them as I was years ago. My mom never had much money to spend on clothing and accessories yet she always managed to look like a million bucks! The 5 rules you shared are the rules my mom used all the time. She had it figured out all those years ago. Thanks , Beth for the refresher about how to look expensive on a budget.

Beth, I love your black monochromatic outfit, looks stunning and chic😍😍

Hi Beth. This is a wonderful video.I've heard a lot about storyoworth. I will definitely look into it. BTW, your jewelry is stunning! Do you links for the pieces you're wearing?

Thank you Beth for sharing your never ending tastefully timeless style.

Thank you so much. So very helpful.

I wish I had those memory books for my grandparents. They are such a good idea. Thanks for the tips. You always look polished and beautiful! I am sharing the video and I hope you are having a great holiday season!

Your tips are spot on! Love your hair! Hope your Christmas season is great!

You can wear a slouchy top, if paired with a tight fitting bottoms like straight legged jeans.

Hi Beth once again thank you for sharing your thoughts about fashion !I like to watch you always ♥️♥️

Thank you @BethDjalali!! Always good to hear these tips I think we all should know..... at a certain age!

Tha classic is always the best and loved thanks for sharing Beth keep it up good work.

Hi Beth just got back from church. You always have such good style advice. This is a perfect video!

Love your videos.❤ Thank you for the tips. Happy holidays 🎁🎄

I loveee your hair style..i think you are just beautiful whatever you are wearing considering your age.i mean you over takibg the youngster styles!wow you are amazing.

Great classic video, Beth. I especially like the comment about avoiding the large prints to maintain a classic look. Such good advice.!

Hi Ms. Beth,! I am a fan of your channel from the Philippines. I'm now 50 yrs. old and I am really inspired by your style in dressing, wearing make-ups and accessories, and hairstyles.. Thank you for your helpful tips.

My first watch....gave a thumbs up the moment I saw the title of the video, great to know there are people who still think classic is the way to go....

Great timeless advice!!! Love the Sunday videos!!!

Thank you for the needed tips

I love the tans with black

I having been typing my father’s autobiography, to his dictation or written text, for several years, as my bad back allows. I didn’t know there was an app for this. He has had a fascinating life, growing up in Hellas (Greece) during WWII, escaping mortars and bombs, escaping by rooftops, surviving arrest by the Nazis, who took in the sons along with the father, to increase intimidation, and roughing it in the countryside to escape Nazi persecution in his home city. Then, the Hellenic Civil wars that followed and the massive earthquake around 1954(?). He is 92, and super-healthy (Mediterranean diet, moderate exercise, no alcohol), but still, get their stories while you can. My mother is next, she’s 10 years younger.

Beth you are elegant! Thank you for your suggestions!

All superb points! Dressing in all neutrals and avoiding large prints is key for me to look more expensive and classic. You are always giving such good advice. Loved this video.

Great video Beth you always have such wonderful tip. I appreciate you.

Great tips! Thank you very much.

The story book such a great idea. Thank you. I just purchased one that I can write for my children. Thank you . Love the monochromatic style looks elegant and expensive.

Hi Beth ..love the colours you wear .. totally chic and suits you! As I'm new but loving your useful tips!! Thank you and stay blessed.

I love it, I didn’t get your videos for few weeks🤷🏻‍♀️, Happy Holidays, stay healthy and bella!!!🤗

THANK YOU

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYBODY GOD BLESS.🎊

Great advice on basic clothing styles. I love the idea of Storyworth, definitely going to research this item.

All excellent tips, Beth! You look great in them all!! I've really been enjoying wearing neutrals lately though with my coloring I can get away with bright colors but I think I will just use them as an accent in the future! Beige is definitely NOT boring!

Fantastic tips, Beth! Thank you.

Love your videos! Question: what color nail polish are you wearing in this video?

I agree get classic pieces and style them right and that’s it

Just finished a year of StoryWorth. Do it, Beth! Again, thank you for these timeless, practical style reminders.

Excellent tips Beth. Thank you!

I really liked this video, and follow your suggestions constantly. I find that we have the same style, and taste, and I appreciate your ideas.

What a great idea that book is. I have written my life story, even though I hope I have many years to go. I am in the process of doing my husbands life story and have completed family histories of each of our grandparents and great grandparents. Plenty of reading for our children and grandchildren

This is the very best vid you have composed.

This was so simple and understandable. Loved it. Thank you so much

Thanks a lot.

Beth, you always look beautiful and polished 😊🙏🏽❤️

Great advice.

Thanks. I luv'd it 💕. And a very merry Christmas in advance. 💞

Loved your video, your style, dressing and the way you carry your self. Honestly, what was surprising is the fact that even though this video targets a certain age and you flaunt your lines and greys with class but every look in this video is as glamorous and tempting as any look in Vogue or Harper's Bazaar. You remind of the class of Jacky Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor or Audrey Hepburn. Hope you prosper and happy holidays. Blessed be.

Right. I follow all this since my transition to white 3 years ago. Love my shiny white hair, and I changed all my clothes to just such items, you suggested here. It did cost a hell lot of bucks (€, lol), to change all my wardrobe, but it was worth it. Never got so many compliments as now, while I'm 74.

Look great in turtlenecks!!❤❤

That’s an awesome gift. I haven’t bought ANY presents yet!! I seriously can’t believe Christmas is in less than 3 weeks! My brain is still thinking November! My memory stinks lately. I won’t remember something I did 3 seconds ago, but it’s probably also stress - brain is on everything at once. My dad doesn’t have a computer or cell phone - so many times I want to send him a picture or text and I can’t. Where do you get your basics, like blazers, coats, pants, etc.? Everything fits you so well.

Excellent tips!!!!

I loved this video, I've saved it.

Thank you Beth

Oh my gosh, my adult niece is doing this with her Dad. She’d send him the questions and he would reply with silly, stupid stuff. Finally she had to tell him “look I’m putting a book together, you have to give me the real story!” 🤣🤣.

Excellent video! Thanks Beth.

My first time here!!! I truly love the video 🥰 I can’t wait to see more Thank you for sharing your knowledge 🙏🏼

I always enjoy your videos!!!

Great advice !

Thank you very much Ms Beth for these amazing videos. It's certainly a great help to me. You look very stunning and gorgeous as always. Happy Holidays to you and family. Stay safe and take care. Lots of love. 🙏🙏🌹🌹🌹❤️

I'm a very first time viewer to your channel & absolutely love your content! I did everthing you asked, subscribed, liked & commented!

Just ran across your channel and subscribed. I think you’re lovely. 😍

Perfect! I need reminding often. You look amazing. I almost want to cut my hair.

Very well done. Beth I can tell you are a professional working woman. Very polished video presentation. Your outfits are smart and a little edgy and cool.

Very helpful tips. It's so easy to reach for something slouchy but I don't think about the impact to my overall outfit. Great video!

Hi Beth I just wanted to say Thank you for sharing this Storyworth~my Mother passed in September how I’d have Loved loved this❤️ I’m considering doing it myself for my children as well! BTW you always look fabulous!

Glad I came across this! I’m in CA Central Valley. I have always wondered does one wear a blazer or other jacket with everything? Thanks in advance for the answer?

Where did you get that amazing ring? Share links to your styles worn during your videos!

Dear Beth, as always you look lovely and your content is very informative.

Thanks for sharing. Pat in NC