Update!

The 19 Best Gifts That Only Look Expensive But Won’t Break the Bank

Balling on a budget this gift-giving season? These are the best affordable gifts for those with expensive taste.

By Marenah Dobin, Camila Quimper Dec 13, 2023 7:02 PMTags
Shop Gifts That Look ExpensiveE! Illustration/ Photos Courtesy of Capri Blue, Anthropologie, Gamisote, Dasein, Arqa

We independently selected these deals and products because we love them, and we think you might like them at these prices. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

Girlies we get it. Maybe we might have overdone it this year by spending too much on bags galore, but that doesn't mean you have to cheap out this year on everyone's gifts. Well... at least not make it seem obvious that you did. If you've been feeling the pressure and pinch of the gift-giving season, there's no need to fret. Because we have amazing news for you—affordable gifts that LOOK expensive but really aren't, actually exist besties. It may sound too good to be true but trust us when we tell you there are plenty of fantastic options out there that exude opulence without the hefty price tag.

From stylish homeware and timeless trinkets to carefully selected decor pieces, we scoured the internet for all the best gifts that scream elegancia but won't empty your wallet. So, what are you waiting for? Don't wait until the last minute (again) and watch your loved ones light up with joy when you gift them these affordable gifts, all while keeping your bank account intact.

Apsvo Chunky Gold Hoop Earrings

These are great dupes for super expensive earrings so many stars have been wearing lately. They come in lots of colors, but you can't go wrong with gold and silver. The earrings have 1,900+ 5-star Amazon reviews.

Laxizar Pearl Hair Clips- 18 Pieces

18 pearl hair clips for $9 is a tough deal to pass up. These beautiful clips are great for a special event or you can just add a little fun pairing these with a casual look.

Sprigs Faux Fur Pull-Through Scarf with Zipper Pocket

Look chic and feel warm with this faux fur scarf. The coolest thing about this scarf is that it comes with a zip-up pocket, which is perfect to store your small essentials like your keys, cards, and lip gloss. It comes in black, pink, and leopard print.

Capri Blue Volcano Matte Jar Candle

Doesn't this matte black candle look so chic? It pairs perfectly with any aesthetic and smells like a tropical fruit that's oh-so-delicious. Opt for the XS candle if you're looking for the perfect under $20 gift for your loved one.

Nuzon Flat Snake Chain Herringbone Necklace

Wear this herringbone necklace as a choker or you can use the chain extender to give it a little extra length. If gold jewelry isn't your vibe, it's also available in silver. One Amazon customer raved, "If you're looking for an inexpensive chain that looks real, buy this chain..it's gorgeous." It has 5,400+ 5-star Amazon reviews.

 

Rifle Paper Co. Fabric Journal

Leather-bound journals are known to be quite expensive, that's why we recommend reaching for a hard-cover fabric one. This Garden Party fabric journal not only looks glamorous, it's also well-made and features gold foil accents on every page.

Gamisote Women's Cape Blazer

If you admire those women who can pull off that whole blazer-on-the-shoulders look, but you're wondering how you're going to eat, drink, and gesture, just get yourself a cape blazer. You can loop your arms through this sleeveless coat, so you won't have to worry about the cape staying put. Plus, no one will be able to tell since the cape part drapes over your arms and shoulders. You will look incredibly sophisticated no matter what you wear with this blazer. It comes in lots of colors with sizes up to XXL. 

Cheena Woody Ambered Topaz Glass Mushroom Lamp Candle

Is it a lamp? Is it a candle? It's technically both. This elegant Amber Topaz Glass Mushroom lamp candle emits a soft, moody light when lit and contains alluring notes of cardamom and lavender infused with cedarwood. You can get it for less than $35 right now on Anthropologie.

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Arqa Leather Slip On Fur Mule

These slip-on mules look incredibly luxe and they feel so comfortable with thanks to the faux fur. These elegant, easy-to-wear, shoes are available in several colors in velvet and leather colorways.

SUNNOW Vastto 11 Ounce Ribbed Glass Cup (Set of 4)

If your loved one is the hostess with the mostess, we recommend gifting them these ribbed glass cups. They're made of premium glass and look fancy enough for them to use when they throw cocktail parties. They'll never know you got these for less than $20!

Dasein Work Bags with Matching Clutch

This bag has room for all of your essentials and it comes with a matching clutch to store your small essentials. The burgundy red, faux croc leather is just so luxurious looking. These sets are available in a few different colors.

100% Mulberry Silk Pillowcase

If silk doesn't scream luxury, then we don't know what does. This pillowcase comes in 36 color options and is made from luxurious silk that won't cause skin creases and ensures their hair stays looking flawless when they wake up.

CELIYAHOME Coaster Set

Split up this pack of six coasters and gift them as stocking stuffers to each of your friends or loved ones. We can't get over how cute and colorful these are, and you can get them for less than $13 right now!

Paddywax Wick Trimmer

While it may seem like a simple gift, the candle enthusiast in your life will appreciate this brass-colored wick trimmer. Not only does it look expensive, it also makes sure their luxury candles have an even and clean burn from now on.

Slashome Ice Globes

Self-care is always important, even for those who have extremely expensive taste. Anyone will love to get these ice globes that are used for a cooling face massage which helps reduce puffiness in the face and eyes.

Extraordinary Things to Cut Out and Collage Book

Artwork can quickly add up in cost, so why not consider gifting them this remarkable collage book instead? We think it's even better than something already made and encourages the art lover in your life to get creative.

The Drop Women's Preston Belt Bag

This embossed croc bag can be worn as a belt bag on your waist or you can get Gen-Z with it and wear it across your body.

Grecian Bust Pot

This Grecian-inspired bust looks just like a classy antique, but you can get it for the affordable price of $28. We love that it also acts as a planter which adds a touch of sophistication to their decor.

Coach Signature Calf Length Socks

Add a luxe touch to your look with some Coach signature print socks. They come in sets with 2 pairs with 3 colorways to choose from.

Looking for some great deals to shop? Check out Nordstrom Rack's top 100 holiday deals are so good you have to see it to believe it.

—Originally published November 2, 2023 at 4 AM PT.