Shopping for affordable fashion options that actually hold up (both literally and figuratively) can sometimes be a tremendous task. There is a lot to weed through in the depths of online shopping and although an item might look great professionally shot, on model, often when it arrives at my door, it’s not always the case. As a fashion editor, I am constantly asking my industry friends and colleagues “Where did you get that?”, when they are sporting a cute look while out and about. The answers are usually, shockingly attainable—prompting me to run home to click and buy immediately. So, I took this same approach and tapped 8 stylish people I know to tell me their best affordable purchase of recent memory.
Unsurprisingly, all of these recommendations are cool and classic, and can be worn over and over. Not only are they useful, transitional pieces that can be worn now and throughout the warm weather months ahead, they are all super stylish. And did I mention they’re all under-$150? Find everything from cute maxi skirts, to elevated sweats and ballet block heels—all straight from some very chic sources. Keep reading to discover their must-have picks, along with some inspiration-worthy styling tips.
White Denim Maxi Skirt
“This off-white denim skirt from Levi’s has become a new favorite in my rotation,” says Aemilia Madden, writer, editor, and brand consultant. “It’s not quite as casual as a blue denim style, but it’s still fairly laid-back.” She suggests styling it with a white top and colorful sneakers, her signature go-to (as pictured), or trying it with a going-out top and strappy sandals, as the warmer weather hits.
Levi’s
Ankle Column Denim Skirt
When it comes to styling, the options are endless.
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J.Crew
Denim Maxi Skirt in White
This one has a bit more distressing at the hem for a worn-in look.
Madewell
The Rilee Denim Midi Skirt
An eco-friendly option, made from 100% cotton and Fair Trade Certified.
BLANKNYC
Maxi Skirt
This one is under-$100 and in a slightly brighter white.
Zara
Z1975 Denim Midi Skirt
Even without a slit, the flared hem on this skirt has plenty of volume.
Zip-Up Hoodie
“I have been wearing this zip hoodie with everything!” stylist Michelle Li says. “It’s cozy, but I think after seeing Sabato de Sarno’s first Gucci show, I’m convinced that these zip hoodies are so chic and I love mixing it into a more dressed up context as well.” Take styling the sporty route, with a short, sock, and trainer, or try with a glossy, midi skirt, à la Gucci, for a sophisticated spin.
Sweatfleece
Cozy Fleece Boyfriend Boxy Zip Hoodie
This pick is cropped perfectly to hit right at the waist.
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Gap
Vintage Soft Zip Hoodie
Gap’s version is a little more oversized, with a super-soft touch.
H&M
Hooded Jacket
You can’t beat the $25 price tag. We loved it styled with monochrome tees and tanks.
BP.
Crop Cotton Blend Zip-Up Hoodie
Whether worn as a set or broken apart, this cropped version is very cool.
Champion
Full-Zip Hoodie
Champion is the OG of sweats. The cotton blend means less pilling after lots of wear.
Black Slip Dress
“My best under-$150 purchase recently has been this black, midi slip dress by Cou Cou Intimates,” PR and brand strategist Michelle Salem says. “The length makes it office-appropriate, but the flattering cut and fit adds a flirtiness that makes it perfect for heading straight to drinks afterwards.” When it comes to styling, she recommends adding a pop of color with accessories. “The simplicity in design also means I can let my accessories shine, and more importantly, that I’ll never get tired of it—which is honestly what I look for most in my purchases these days,” she says.
Cou Cou Intimates
The Midi Slip Black
The textured, pointelle fabric is what really makes this select stand out.
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Skims
Fits Everybody Lace-Trimmed Stretch Maxi Dress
Skims’ take on the LBD has a cute, lace trim for added appeal.
Cou Cou Intimates
The Picot Dress
This is the mini version of Salem’s pick, for those who prefer a shorter hem length.
H&M
Long Slip Dress
Simple and sleek, it’s all you really need.
Open Edit
Smooth Edit Strappy Midi Slipdress
This one has a smoothing effect to flatter the figure.
Ballerina Block Heel
“Everyone always thinks these ballet flats are more expensive than they are,” says Kat Collings, Editor in Chief of Who What Wear. “I’ve been asked if they’re the Parisian brand Repetto many times. Plus any scuffs on the patent come off super easily with a little nail polish remover.” Wear this bold red shoe with matching hosiery or socks for a fun, monochrome look, like Collings. We have a few neutral options below, as well.
Steve Madden
Cherish Pump
Wear with everything from jeans and T-shirts, to minis and leather jackets.
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ASOS Design
Steffie Bow Detail Mid Block Heeled Shoes
This might be the highest heel of the bunch, but the thicker, block shape still makes these comfortable for all day wear.
Franco Sarto
Natalia Block Heel Pump
For spring and summer, try a white color way to mix into your warm weather wardrobe.
Urban Outfitters
Sophia Ballet Block Heel
A matte leather style goes with everything and is super soft and flexible.
Steve Madden
Cherish Flat
The red is so good, you just might want to go for the same shoe in black patent, as well.
Poplin Maxi Skirt
“I have always loved maxi skirts in all of their wondrous forms, and this Zara white poplin bubble skirt feels like a fresh spin on it,” says editor, artist, and content creator, Kerry Pieri. “I’ve already worn this three different ways in the two weeks I’ve owned it, but I am especially into this old, silk wrap top from Aje with fisherman sandals by Either Or, and Little Lifner bag.” This truly is a piece you can transition straight into summer.
Zara
Balloon Midi Skirt
The bubble hem gives this skirt a modern twist.
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Banana Republic
Ariella Poplin Midi Skirt
Conjure images of a Mediterranean coastal town with this full, A-line skirt.
ASOS Design
Dropped Waist Cotton Poplin Maxi Skirt in White
The drop waistband gives this shape a nice flare for easy, breezy wear.
Free-est
Lowen Midi Skirt
Sometimes the simplest styles are the ones you will go back to week after week.
Topshop
Poplin Midi Full Skirt
The panel seam detailing gives this skirt a little edge.
Striped Crewneck Sweatshirt
“I own this sweatshirt in black, dark green and recently added the white and beige striped color way to my wardrobe too!” content creator and creative consultant, Coco Bassey, tells us. “The fit is super flattering so I can dress it up and look polished, while also being so soft and comfortable, so it feels as comfortable and breathable as my comfiest pair of PJs.” She also recommends it as a good basic for chillier weather and travel days. We are sold.
Spanx
Airessentials Crew
We love a striped sweatshirt, and this one really is that soft.
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Mango
Striped Knitted Sweatshirt
Although a sweatshirt can feel casual, it can go polished, tucked into high-waisted trousers for a comfortable work look.
Free People
Classic Striped Oversized Crewneck
How fun are the bold red stripes on Free People’s slouchy take on the classic crew?
H&M
Mama Before & After Nursing Sweatshirt
Pregnant or not, this is a classic option for all.
Amazon Essentials
French Terry Fleece Crewneck Sweatshirt
A French Terry sweatshirt is one of those wardrobe staples that never go out of style.
’90s Straight-Leg Jeans
“I love these Abercrombie jeans because they are the perfect, everyday jeans with a twist,” says Katie Sturino, Megababe founder and body acceptance advocate. “They are super comfortable with an updated, cross-over silhouette, and I love the wash!” Keep things minimalist, like Sturino, and wear with a white T-shirt and blazer for a very ’90s approach.
Abercrombie
Ultra High Rise 90s Straight Jean
The cross-over waistband is a cool reinterpretation of the classic, straight-leg jean.
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Madewell
The Plus ’90s Straight Crop Jean
The subtle distressing on the knee adds a little vintage nod to Madewell’s customer-favorite jean.
Levi’s
Dad Jeans
These jeans from Levi’s really feel like something you could have pulled from a nineties fashion archive.
Everlane
The Original Cheeky® Jean
Available in both 26.5″ and 28.5″ inseams to give you the perfect, ankle length.
H&M
Straight High Jeans
These are just as good as the designer denim options out there.
Techy Track Pants
“After being in the newborn bubble for the second time, I’m ready to look a little more put-together after days spent mostly in pajamas,” says writer and editor, Laura Lajiness Kaupke. “I’m still home most days with the baby and need to be comfy with nursing-friendly tops as an essential foundation to my looks. But these pants from Aritzia’s new athleisure line have felt like a cooler, crisper option over my slouchier sweats and leggings.” She loves their silky, soft feel, lightweight fabrication, and that they have pockets—for juggling anything from a phone to pacifiers, for those new Moms out there.
Golden
Movetech™ Prepare Pant
These are made for movement but don’t have to be reserved for just the gym.
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Varley
Tacoma Pleated Jersey Straight-Leg Track Pants
Pair with an oversized button down and sandal for a fresh styling take on athleisure.
Zella
Level Set Straight Leg Slit Hem Track Pants
We love the leg slits for airy movement—and to show off those cute sneakers.
The North Face
Easy Embroidered Windwall™ Pants
Built for the elements, but just as cool on the street, we’d style these The North Face pants with a cropped T-shirt or bra top.
lululemon
Softstreme High-Rise Pant
You’ve got to try these for yourself to really feel how insanely soft they are.
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