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Dressing for winter is fun (layering! Texture!) but it can also be expensive.

For one, you have to factor in more pieces. Knits and coats can really rack up some mileage on the debit card. Then there are the accessories, which need to perform different jobs than your flimsy summer ones.

You need coverage, not just cute clothes. And that comes at a cost.

We're all feeling the pinch right now, but that doesn't mean we don't want to look good.

Watch: The hero of your winter wardrobe. Post continues below.

So, how can we bridge the gap? It all comes down to honing your eye.

Over the years, I've developed a special skill for identifying pieces that look and feel more ~expensive~ than their price tag.

I take into account the quality of the fabric, the cut or drape of the garment, and styling versatility. If something ticks those three boxes, it's going in my metaphorical cart (and I'm sharing it with you.)

Scroll down for my edit of budget-friendly, winter-ready pieces that will add value to your wardrobe.

Next Cosy Touch Crew Neck Sweatshirt with Neck Scarf, $57.

With a removable scarf, this is two chic tops in one (with endless styling options.)

Target Preview Wrap Belted Coat, $80.

There's something about an oversized wrap coat that just says rich. Maybe because the originator of this style of overcoat is ultra-spendy Italian label Max Mara. Thank goodness for Target's on-point outerwear game.

I love the truffle colour, but the olive green option is equally covetable.

PrettyLittleThing Black Wool Look Cinched Blazer, now $82.50.

An hourglass blazer feels more refined than your standard oversized blazer; it's just science.

Uniqlo and JW Anderson Lambswool Polo Sweater, $59.90.

This smart polo knit is 100 per cent wool and it's designed by Christian Dior creative director JW Anderson, with an embroidered logo on the sleeve. How's the attention to detail? I literally can't believe it's under 60 dollars, but I'm not complaining.

Atmos & Here Fine Knit Top, $60.

It's the boat neckline that makes this fine-knit top a subtle standout. Team it with straight-leg jeans and heels for an elegant winter look you can easily layer up for evening (just add a cropped jacket or coat.)

Zara Embroidered Pocket Shirt, $105.

This silky shirt stopped me in my tracks while browsing at Zara; it really is as gorgeous as it looks. It's from the brand's ZW Collection, which offers elevated pieces from the design studio, hence the slightly higher price. But that pocket detail? Blink and it's a Loewe shirt.

NA-KD Wide Leg Velvet Trousers, $55.95.

Textured pants can really lift your whole outfit game, especially when it comes to winter workwear. Team these with a crisp white shirt and boots for the office.

Therapy Alegria Ballet Flat Port Velvet, $79.95.

These velvet flats look so luxe. They'll give your outfits a pop of colour and wintery texture in one.

H&M Mohair Blend Triangle Scarf, $45.

Meet the triangle scarf — the east way to give your look instant fashion cred this season (Nothing To Wear co-host Lucinda Pikkat says so.) In a mottled mohair-blend, this one will keep your neck super toasty.

Rubi Saskia Oval Aviator Sunglasses, $20.

All the stylish women are wearing rounded aviators right now to finish off their fits. Inspired by a boujie Bottega Veneta pair, these come in at $20.

NA-KD Statement Earrings, $29.95.

Sculptural silver earrings are a shortcut to making your whole outfit look considered. These come in under $30, but you'd never know it.

MNG Suede Leather Belt, $59.95.

I just purchased this chic belt to upgrade all my basic fits. The combination of brown suede and a gold buckle instantly reads as expensive.

For more helpful style advice and shopping recommendations, subscribe to the weekly Nothing to Wear Substack , listen to the Nothing to Wear podcast or watch Nothing to Wear on YouTube.

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Feature image: Supplied; NA-KD; NEXT.