When it comes to curating a wardrobe that exudes quiet luxury and polished refinement, style influencer Mimi Nguyen has the formula down to a science. Her spring refresh serves as a blueprint for anyone seeking to elevate their everyday looks into something sleek, modern, and timelessly chic—without needing a couture budget.
For Mimi, elevated style isn’t about flashy logos or passing trends. Instead, it’s about investing in versatile basics that whisper elegance and can seamlessly transform any outfit into something expensive-looking. Her approach revolves around six key pieces—each playing a vital role in crafting a wardrobe that feels high-end but remains grounded in simplicity and sophistication.
Here’s how you can make elevated style your thing too, by leaning on these six tried-and-true essentials.
1. The Button-Down Shirt—with a Twist
A button-down shirt is a perennial staple, but Mimi’s pick comes with a subtle upgrade: oversized cuffs. This exaggerated detail adds structure and visual intrigue, instantly making a classic feel current and intentional. Whether you opt for clean white cotton or muted stripes, this twist on tradition has the power to elevate even the most casual jeans or tailored trousers.
Look for designs with wide cuffs and crisp fabrics, which hold their shape beautifully and offer a luxurious touch—even when the price tag says otherwise.

2. Dark Denim, Done Right
Forget faded washes and distressed finishes. This season, dark denim reigns supreme, lending a refined edge to what is usually a laid-back fabric. Mimi favors wide-leg and high-rise silhouettes that offer both comfort and polish—ideal for everything from weekend brunch to casual Fridays at the office.
The beauty of dark denim is its adaptability. Pair it with a blazer and slingback heels for an instantly expensive-looking ensemble, or keep it casual with a boatneck top for understated elegance.

3. The Black Cinched Blazer
Tailoring is the backbone of elevated style, and nothing does the job quite like a black cinched-waist blazer. Mimi opts for a collarless version that lends softness to an otherwise structured piece. The fitted silhouette flatters the waist and pairs perfectly with jeans, skirts, or layered over a trench for added depth.
Whether you go for linen, wool-blend, or shoulder-padded styles, this wardrobe MVP can take you from daytime errands to evening drinks effortlessly—all while looking like you stepped out of a high-end lookbook.

4. Sleek Slingback Heels
Minimalist and chic, black slingback heels are the footwear that ties an outfit together. Mimi’s choice? Kitten heels with pointed toes that channel vintage charm with modern flair. They strike the perfect balance between comfort and style, and they’re versatile enough for day-to-night wear.
When paired with tailored separates or even a maxi skirt, slingbacks elongate the legs and add a subtle elegance without the need for sky-high stilettos.

5. Boatneck Tops: Effortlessly Sophisticated
Sometimes, the smallest tweaks can make the biggest impact. The boatneck top is a prime example. Its wide neckline draws attention to the collarbones, lending a graceful silhouette that instantly looks elevated. Mimi incorporates this piece into her wardrobe as an alternative to standard tees—proving that even the simplest outfit can be transformed with the right neckline.
Opt for ribbed knits, neutral tones, or sleeveless designs to switch things up. Whether tucked into trousers or worn with denim, the result is unfussy sophistication at its best.

6. Monochrome Gray Separates
There’s something undeniably luxurious about a head-to-toe gray outfit. From soft knits to structured blazers, Mimi embraces the tonal magic of gray for its understated power and modern feel. Unlike black, which can sometimes come off as too harsh, gray softens the overall look while still feeling composed and intentional.
The key is in mixing textures—combine knit tops with pinstriped trousers or oversized blazers with fluid wide-leg pants. Gray offers endless styling possibilities while keeping your outfit grounded in quiet elegance.

Final Thoughts
Elevated style isn’t just a fashion preference—it’s a mindset. It’s about choosing pieces that work hard, feel thoughtful, and stand the test of time. Mimi Nguyen’s wardrobe refresh is a testament to the power of strong basics and intentional styling. With just six key items, you can curate a look that’s polished, luxurious, and totally you.
So whether you’re rebuilding your wardrobe from scratch or just looking to add a few refined staples, these elevated basics are guaranteed to deliver that “expensive look” every time—without breaking the bank.