Once upon a time, I thought that sticking to a budget while working in fashion was a futile endeavor. I had entered the industry after starting my career in newspaper journalism, a field where the dress code is notoriously more relaxed, and my ideas of how fashion editors should dress were informed by a mix of early evening Sex and the City reruns (on basic cable—I was missing most of the good stuff, as I later found out).
I’ve since realized that the most well dressed among us don’t rely on a steady stream of expensive purchases. Instead, they’ve honed an expert eye for the high-low mix, know a whole lot of styling tricks, and invest wisely when they do decide to shell out for a designer piece. They’re not afraid to take risks and look a little “out there” either. They know it’s better to have worn that oversize lime green suit and risk a few baffled stares than to have never loved at all. (That’s how the saying goes, right?)
What I’m trying to say is that I’m certainly not immune to the thrill of shopping, especially once payday rolls around. I just generally choose to limit myself to cheapish (but not cheap-looking) thrills that ring in under $100 and keep my wardrobe looking fresh. Keep reading to sneak a peek at the picks I’ve been saving for payday, that most blessed of days I frequently have circled and underlined in red in my much-abused monthly calendar.
A unique take on seashell jewelry (still big news for fall, btw).
This terra-cotta utility jacket is just the piece my outerwear wardrobe’s been missing.
Also very into crochet detailing right about now.
An unexpected take on the basic black tee.
Here for more sheer pieces (especially ones that are this affordable).
Best worn crossbody, ICYWW.
White boots with a hint of a Western flair.
Looking for a plain black bag? You can’t go wrong with this Mango pick (with a very on-trend faux-croc finish).
Let’s get one thing clear here…
An offbeat pick in an on-trend color.
Another affordable boot style I’m thinking about pulling the trigger on.
Because I’ve never seen a ’90s-inspired sunglasses style I didn’t loved.
Paloma Wool’s graphic tees are so good.
Saw this animal-print coat finally went on sale, and I’m finally ready to commit.
The wide-leg trousers I’ll be wearing to work on the regular.
I thought I left my Vans obsession in high school, but I was wrong—so wrong.
The boot style of the season, at a price point too good to refuse.
Tortoiseshell detailing continues to be big news.
Need a new jumpsuit? I think I’ve found your next purchase.
A subtle way to wear tie-dye.
These are just dying for a mixed-print moment, no?
A fun new piece to add to your jewelry box.
Did I mention fashion’s tortoiseshell obsession?
Psst—you don’t have to tell anyone these are pajama pieces.
The heart shape + the pearl finish = two major fall trends in one super-fun pair of earrings.
Looking for more affordable fashion finds? Next up, see 21 under-$46 shopping picks that look way more expensive than their price tag would suggest.
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Zara's Linen Collection Is Top-Notch—27 Pieces That Have My AttentionThe pants alone are worth checking out.
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I Just Found the Affordable Color Trend That's Khaite, Alaïa, and Jil Sander ApprovedWe've been Galindafied.
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These Under-$100 Winter Buys From Nordstrom Are a Pure Hit of Fashion DopamineThese will have your friends doing a double take.
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I Already Failed My 2025 No-Buy—36 Under-$100 H&M Finds That Look Triple the PriceMiu Miu, Khaite, and Prada are all on the menu.
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It's True—Everyone Will Wish They Bought This $68 Ref Top When It Inevitably Sells OutI see the future.
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This Pop Star's Shoe Collection Is Full of Unexpectedly Chic Gems—25 I Have My Eye OnMost styles are under $100.
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5 Affordable Outerwear Trends Fashion People Are Wearing in 2025Including trench coats buttoned to the top.
