Look Like a Millionaire with These 4 Cheap Tricks

Money can't buy class and style. Here's how to fake looking like a millionaire in Singapore until you make your first million.

There are over 150,000 millionaires in Singapore. That works out to less than three per cent of our population. And then there’s the rest of us.

But hey, it’s NBD if you belong to the other 97 percent. Money may be a splendid thing, but there are things a million dollars can’t buy — class and style.

On the other hand, it is possible to look expensive and elegant without paying an arm and a leg. You see, it is all about packaging. Once you’ve mastered the art, then all there’s left to do is fake it till you make your actual million.  

1. “Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.”— Coco Chanel

Rule No 1: Less is more. Even the Kardashians are cottoning on.

As you know, we consider Coco Chanel to be the epitome of style, class and elegance. There’s no one we trust more for advice on looking tastefully “rich”.

It’s a well-known legend that Chanel used to roll-eyes at the gaudy flamboyance of socialites. “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off,” she famously said.

Today, Amal Clooney is probably the best champion of simple elegance. The trick is, you don’t need to buy a lot, but buy smart, and invest in quality pieces — such as a well-tailored jacket and basic tops — that you can wear all the time.

Either hold out for sales or make a beeline for online designer outlet and vintage stores like The Outnet and The Fifth Collection. You’re bound to snare some choice investment pieces.

2. “Luxury is in each detail.” — Hubert de Givenchy

The devil is in the detail. If you’re serious about dressing to impress the upper echelon, then you ought to start paying attention to every little detail — all the way from your hair to your pedicure. Again, it’s not how much you spend that matters, but rather, the meticulousness of your satorial and styling choice decisions.

Every accessory counts (yes, that includes your iPhone case and the colour of le vernis) and is a reflection of your taste. So, choose wisely.

3. “Behind every successful woman is a fabulous handbag.” — Unknown

A fabulous bag can instantly elevate your glam factor even if you’re in a casual outfit. The good news is, you won’t have to blow your savings on a Birkin to achieve that million-dollar look.

When it comes to choosing right bag for the job, look for structure, texture, real leather, and —  this is trés important — the absence of a logo. Some of the most impressive looking bags that are also popular among the well-heeled include the Celine Phantom and Chanel’s Boy bag.

See Also: How to Afford a New Designer Bag Every Year

You’ll also do well to consider buying something that allows you to (1) carry it all year long without raising an eyebrow (understated!); (2) match it with almost all your outfits (classic and versatile!); (3) lend you an air of importance and dignity (attitude!). You know, like you have a million bucks in the bag, so to speak.

4. “Don’t be defeatist, dear, it’s very middle class.” — Maggie Smith

Confidence is good look to wear if you want to look like a millionaire. The best part? It’s free.

Stand tall, practise your power pose, walk with pomp and purpose, for which a pair of good shoes always helps. If heels are what’s going to give you a spring in your step, go for it, but make sure they are comfortable enough for you to think on your feet. Pointed-toe, matt-leather or suede pumps are highly recommended.

If you walk your talk better in flats, may we suggest you look to the Olsens for inspiration. Because the pair of multi-millionaire fashion moguls may be small, but their sense of style — and worth — is anything but. Tip for choosing the perfect fancy-looking flats: eschew cute (no ribbons or bows, please). Keep it simple but significant.

Pro-tip: use a rewards credit card when you do buy something, so you can earn air miles, discounts, or vouchers from your purchase! 

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By Alexa Fang

Alexa is a pop-culture vulture. She lives to read, write and travel, and decided long ago that life is stranger than fiction. When she's having croissant, she thinks in French. "31 Rue Cambon" is her favourite address, and she believes that money one enjoyed spending is never money wasted.