How to Make a Basic Jeans-and-Tee Outfit Look Expensive
Let’s be honest—jeans and a tee are the MVPs of any wardrobe. They’re reliable, easy, and always there for you, like your favorite rom-com or that last slice of pizza you swore you wouldn’t eat. But let’s face it, as much as we love this combo, it can sometimes feel a little… basic.
That’s where accessories come in. The right bag, earrings, or shoes can take your jeans-and-tee look from meh to wow, faster than you can say “add to cart.” Whether you’re running errands, meeting friends for brunch, or pretending you have your life together at school pick-up, accessories are the unsung heroes that make everything feel a little more stylish.
And the best part? You don’t need a closet full of clothes to feel polished. A few thoughtful, versatile accessories (yes, we’re talking gold hoops, structured crossbody bags, and maybe a chic belt) can elevate even your laziest outfit into something you’d proudly post on Instagram.
Ready to meet the accessories that make my jeans-and-tee outfits anything but boring? Let’s dive into 20 pieces that are stylish, practical, and, of course, a little bit fabulous.
1. Gold Hoop Earrings
Amazon
14K Gold Filled Huggie Hoop Earring Stacks
$12.99
Because nothing says ‘effortlessly chic’ like earrings that match your messy bun and your latte order.
2. Structured Crossbody Bag
Amazon
Carly Saddle Bag
$79.00
Hands-free and stylish—perfect for when you’re juggling coffee, car keys, and your sanity.
3. Chunky Sneakers
Adidas
Unisex-Adult Samba Indoor Sneaker
$90
Comfortable enough for errands, cool enough for compliments. Win-win.
4. Oversized Sunglasses
Amazon
Classic Retro Sunglasses
$22.99
Hide your tired eyes and instantly look like you’re dodging paparazzi—it’s a vibe.
5. Statement Belt
Amazon
Elastic Waist Belt
$18.99
For when your jeans need a little pick-me-up, and you need an excuse to feel fancy.
6. Layered Gold Necklaces
Amazon
Gold Layered Necklace
$12.99
Add one, add five—either way, you’ll look like you tried without actually trying.
7. Wide-Brim Hat
x REVOLVE The Melodic Fedora
Lack of Color
$149
Perfect for covering bad hair days or looking mysteriously fabulous at brunch.
8. Ankle Boots
Margo Block Boot
RAYE
$188
Because sometimes sneakers just don’t cut it, and you’re not ready to commit to heels.
9. Silk Scarf
Abstract Scarf
8 Other Reasons
$31
Tie it in your hair, wrap it around your bag, or drape it over your shoulders—instant French-girl vibes.
10. Minimalist Watch
Virgil Watch
Breda
$185
Yes, your phone tells time, but this makes you look like you have your life together.
11. Stacked Rings
The Eternity Stack
MEGA
$238
Tiny but mighty—add a few and suddenly your hands are Instagram-worthy.
12. Leather Tote Bag
Dooney & Bourke
Dooney & Bourke Pebble Grain Large Tote
$358.00
Big enough for snacks, makeup, and maybe a toddler’s toy—because life’s a balancing act.
13. Printed Bandana
Amazon
Satin Bandanas
$8.99
For when you’re feeling a little retro or just need a quick hair fix in the car.
14. Heeled Mules
Dolce Vita
Kanika Heels
$135
Easy to slip on and just dressy enough to make people think you planned your outfit.
15. Bold Lipstick
Amazon
NYX Sizzlin' (Oxblood Red)
$9.97
Not technically an accessory, but it has the same effect—instantly elevates any look.
16. Studded Flats
Madewell
The Elsie Mary Jane Flat
$158
Comfortable, chic, and perfect for when you’re in between casual and dressed-up.
17. Chain-Link Bag
Tory Burch
KIRA CHEVRON CHAIN WALLET
$398
It’s all about the details, and this adds just the right amount of edge to any outfit.
18. Cashmere Wrap
Tuckernuck
Oat Cashmere Blanket Scarf
$198
Cozy but luxe—like wearing a blanket, but make it fashion.
19. Statement Earrings
Missoma
Square Pearl Statement Earrings
$223.00
Because sometimes your outfit needs to say more than your energy level allows.
20. Shearling Slides
Manolo Blahnik
Chilpa Shearling Slippers
$1,095 $657
The cozy option that still feels put-together—because you’re not ready for ‘real’ shoes yet.
