How to Look Expensive as a Tourist: 10 Elegant Tips That Actually Work
Wondering how to look expensive as a tourist without overpacking or standing out? Discover 10 chic, practical style tips to travel confidently and elegantly.
FASHION TIPS

💁♀️10 Ways To Look Expensive as a Tourist – Travel in Style Without Looking Like One
Let’s be honest — most of us want to feel comfortable while traveling, but without looking like we just rolled out of a souvenir shop.
Can you look stylish, elegant, and yes — expensive — even while sightseeing?
Anna Bey says yes. And in her signature classy style, she shares 10 timeless tips to help you master that polished traveler vibe.
Here’s my take on her advice — plus a few extra insights you’ll want to pack for your next trip. ✈️✨
🧳 1. Don’t Dress “Touristy” — Aim for Neutral Chic
Anna opens by reminding us that those loud floral shirts, graphic tees, and cargo shorts are basically the uniform for “obvious tourist.”
And the problem? They not only cheapen your outfit — they instantly make you a target for scams.
Instead, opt for neutral, elevated basics: beige trousers, linen shirts, white button-downs, light knits.
Simple + elegant = instantly more polished (and safer).
🩴 2. Say Goodbye to Flip-Flops
Yes, they’re easy. But flip-flops are the fastest way to downgrade an outfit. Anna calls them out for being cheap-looking and impractical.
👜 Alternatives?
Leather sandals
Loafers or ballet flats
Chic white sneakers (minimal design)
Your shoes set the tone for your entire outfit — so don’t let them scream “beach gift shop.”
👗 3. Avoid Logo Overload
Luxury doesn’t shout — it whispers.
Wearing clothes covered in designer logos doesn’t actually make you look rich. In fact, Anna explains it often does the opposite.
Wealthy women tend to favor quiet luxury — think quality fabrics, clean lines, and subtle elegance.
✨ Instead of branding, let your fit, fabric, and polish speak for themselves.
🎒 4. Be Picky With Your Bags
Tourists are notorious for carrying bulky backpacks, worn crossbodies, or sporty belt bags.
Anna recommends something more elegant — like a structured leather handbag or a minimalist tote.
If you need functionality, choose a classic silhouette in a neutral tone that doesn’t ruin the aesthetic of your outfit.
👜 Bonus: Structured bags instantly elevate even the simplest outfit.
🕶️ 5. Sunglasses: Keep It Classy
Oversized novelty glasses or colorful plastic frames? Not so much.
Anna’s tip: invest in classic, chic sunglasses — think black, tortoise shell, or a refined cat-eye.
They're not just stylish, they also serve as a subtle shield when you don’t want to make eye contact with aggressive vendors.
Functional and fabulous.
👚 6. Iron or Steam Your Clothes (Yes, Even While Traveling)
This one hit home. Nothing ruins an otherwise expensive-looking outfit faster than wrinkled clothes.
Anna suggests bringing a travel-sized steamer or opting for wrinkle-resistant fabrics when packing.
Looking elegant while on the go is often about the little things — and this one makes a huge difference.
🧼 7. Avoid Stained or Worn Clothing
No judgment — travel can get messy. But wearing clothes with stains, pilling, or faded colors instantly brings down your appearance.
Anna says: quality over quantity, and always check your items before packing.
When in doubt, choose fewer items that look pristine over more options that look “meh.”
👖 8. Skip Tight & Revealing Clothes
Just because you're on vacation doesn’t mean elegance takes a break.
Anna advises against anything overly tight, short, or revealing. Why? Because true luxury is modest, relaxed, and effortless.
Instead, go for:
Midi dresses
Tailored pants
Flowing blouses
Lightweight jackets
Comfort + coverage = classy sophistication.
💄 9. Keep Your Grooming Polished
Looking expensive isn’t just about clothes — it’s your whole presence.
That includes neat hair, a fresh face (or simple makeup), and clean nails.
💅 Pro tip from Anna: a neutral nail polish or a fresh nude manicure will always look more expensive than neon or chipped polish.
📸 10. Blend In (But In Style)
You don’t need to look like a local, but you shouldn’t look like a walking billboard for “I'm not from here!”
Anna suggests blending in with taste: pay attention to the city you’re visiting, the climate, and the general vibe.
🇮🇹 Visiting Italy? Think polished linens.
🇫🇷 Paris? Bring your trench and flats.
🇯🇵 Tokyo? Go sleek and minimal.
The key is to adapt with elegance, not abandon your style.
💬 Final Thoughts from Emilly
What I love most about Anna’s tips is that they go beyond surface-level fashion advice.
They’re about carrying yourself with intention, class, and quiet confidence — no matter where you are in the world.
Looking expensive while traveling isn’t about money. It’s about:
✔ Making smart style choices
✔ Prioritizing polish over flash
✔ And showing up for yourself, wherever life takes you
So the next time you're packing your suitcase, leave the flip-flops, logo shirts, and gym leggings at home.
Pack like a woman who knows her worth — and dresses like it, even in transit. 💼
🎥 Credits
Inspired by the video:
“10 Ways To Look Expensive As a TOURIST”
by Anna Bey – Watch it here: https://youtu.be/mMW1tJ0wR6w?si=q-chu3OdqdlRPTWT
All concepts, tips, and visuals are based on her expert content — go support her elegant and empowering work!