A new year calls for a new budget (at least for me), but that presents a special challenge as a fashion-obsessed city girl with a job in trend forecasting. Not only does my career call for being on top of the latest trends, but it also means spending a good chunk of every day shopping out those of-the-moment pieces.
Suffice it to say, temptations are high, and budgets are low in my world. Because of that, I've become an expert in sourcing expensive-looking items at wallet-friendly prices. They do exist, and the number of options is growing as brands become more savvy.
Luxe knits, premium outerwear, opulent footwear, and quality denim can all be purchased for less than $150 if you know where to look. For your benefit and mine, I scoured H&M, Nordstrom, and Zara for designer-looking pieces with price tags that'll leave you shocked for all the right reasons.
Updated T-shirts are an easy way to elevate your basics.
The perfect transitional piece.
Barrel jeans are here to stay.
An under-$100 faux-fur jacket is a can't-miss find.
Pairing retro sneakers with luxe staples is the best way to look current and stay comfortable.
Barn coats are having a chic moment, and the price is also a win.
Capes look the most expensive.
These boots will be so worth it.
The English countryside in a jacket for only $109.
The texture on this knit makes it look so lush.
A Kendall Jenner favorite.
Wide-leg trousers always look highbrow.
Sophisticated flats are the best investment.
The lace trim adds an extra level of taste to this slip skirt.
Denim you will live in.
Layering gauzy knits is this fashion editor's trick to looking elegant in the winter.
Boho denim is a designer-favorite trend right now.
Circle skirts will never go out of style.
Turning the rugby-shirt trend into a knit is too polished.
This is the ultimate steal. Buy it before I do.
Something about this cardigan feels opulent, from the double-breasted silhouette to the bouclé fabric.
Black jeans make the best go-to.
Loewe, Miu Miu, and more back this purchase.
This skirt marries current and timeless.
The shoes that keep on giving back to your wardrobe.
I feel current Jackie Onassis would have this in her cart.
Circular studs are the ultimate embellishment in accessories currently.
The balloon hem is definitely still happening.
These mesh slingbacks have an edgy, everyday feel that is hard to replicate.
This skirt with early-aughts charm should be sold out.
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