A Shopping Expert Revealed Her 5 Amazon Finds for Looking Expensive

This spring, looking expensive doesn’t have to come at a cost — and we found the pieces to prove it. To crack the code on luxe dressing for less, InStyle tapped Jen Reed, shopping expert and founder of lifestyle brand Life in Lilac. As a “firm believer that you don’t have to break the bank to look chic,” Reed spilled her biggest secrets for curating an elevated outfit rotation this season. The best part? You can snag her five favorite finds directly at Amazon. 

Below, browse through Reed’s top Amazon recommendations (yes, she’s ordered and worn every single one). Among her picks, you’ll find a breezy, spring-perfect dress, your new favorite flats, and stylish accessories to instantly level-up any look. Regardless of which styles catch your eye (warning: they likely all will), be sure to checkout quickly — these on-trend items may sell out soon. 

Expert-Approved Spring Amazon Fashion Finds

Buckle Flats: Yishaweiqi Slingback Flats

“Take a neutral outfit and kick it up a notch by adding a silver shoe,” Reed recommended. These “effortless and cool” slingback flats “add a little edge” to any ensemble, she said. They have a sleek pointed-toe and statement buckle details, plus, they’re available in 14 colorways if metallics aren’t your speed. Reed admitted she snagged the shoes in “several colors” because “they’re that good.” When it comes to fit, one reviewer described them as “well made” and “very comfortable” thanks to their “cushioned soles.” Still not sold? A second shopper added that they “cannot tell the difference” between the flats and “high-end designer styles.” 

Straw Bag: Jay Aventura Basket Tote

Meet your new go-to spring bag: the Jay Aventura Basket Tote. At $50, the raffia find is “really similar to the Loewe one,” which retails for $650, “but for a fraction of the price,” Reed said. Thanks to its elevated silhouette and chic faux leather detailing, the straw bag can be worn everywhere from the pool to happy hour. Plus, it’s roomy enough to stow all of your essentials and more. One shopper said its “quality is amazing for the price,” adding that it “holds more than it looks like it can.” Don’t wait to add the chic accessory to your spring style arsenal. 

Maxi Dress: Abyovrt Floral Embroidered Maxi Dress

Speaking of must-have pieces, Reed has already reached for this breezy maxi dress “time and time again this season” because she’s “so impressed with the quality” and its style is reminiscent of pricier brands. The dress has airy puff-sleeves, a flattering smocked bodice, and billowy skirt. The real star of the show, though, is its floral embroidery, which couldn’t be more perfect for springtime. Not only does the dress look great, but it’s “incredibly comfortable” and “easy to throw on,” according to Reed. The shopping expert admitted she grabbed the dress in “four colors,” adding “this one is such a win!”

Tennis Bracelet: Pavoi 14K Gold-Plated Cubic Zirconia Bracelet

One of Reed’s biggest tips for “making anything look more high-end” is “finishing it off with polished, simple accessories.” And, this Pavoi tennis bracelet will “make you look put together, no matter what you’re wearing,” she said. The elevated box chain is encrusted with sparkly cubic zirconia and available in yellow, white, and rose gold. Oh, and did I mention it’s just $18? Reed has worn hers “nearly every day” since she purchased it “months” ago, and it “still looks incredible” — she’s “obsessed.” 

Sunglasses: Sojos Polarized Hexagon Sunglasses

What’s a warm-weather wardrobe without a pair of chic sunnies? These Sojos polarized sunglasses are now on sale for just $16. Thanks to their hexagonal shape and gold frames, the pair instantly adds a stylish flair to any outfit. Reed shared that the Sojos brand is “one of [her] favorites on Amazon,” since “their quality is amazing.” She’s not the only fan of the shades — more than 10,000 people purchased them in the past month alone, according to Amazon. Plus, one customer said they “get so many compliments every time [they] wear them,” deeming them the “best sunglasses [they’ve] ever bought.”