Shoestring Chic is a new book by Paris-based Australian illustrator and author, Kerrie Hess, who recently sketched for Chanel. Her tips on how to look like a million dollars on a budget include a smart guide for cash-strapped travellers to Paris, who want to stay somewhere chic without the five star price tag.

It’s inspired us here at Tluxe to look closer to home for our own ideas on little luxuries that won’t cost the earth but make life sparkle.

1. Picnic at a harbourside villa: Spring is on its way. Grab a bottle of champagne and some delights from your local deli and head down to Strickland House in Sydney’s Vaucluse. Its secluded, in-the-know location features million dollar harbourside views for little more than the cost of a sandwich.

2. Make Wednesday night your new Saturday night: There’s a whole new world of opportunity outside of weekends. Weekends are expensive - movies, gigs, restaurants are all more likely to have a higher price tag on weekends. So why not make Wednesday night out a routine? For Bondi locals especially, it’s the best night of the week.

3. Buy less but buy better quality: We love nice things. Instead of spending regularly on tee-shirts that instantly fall out of shape, buy one good dress or shirt every few months. Buying less means you can invest in quality. If you have particular things you really like, then saving up and buying a decent version of them is cheaper in the long run. And it will still be around to give you joy in years to come.