As a fashion editor, I naturally tend to rack up a pretty lengthy list of things I want to buy at any given moment. Most of the time, that list consists of basics and a few trendy thrills, but it also includes a few key luxury buys—specifically from "goal" designer labels. If money were no object, I'd have a closet full of serene and minimalistic pieces from brands such as The Row, Khaite, and Totême. But since I do, in fact, have a cap on my shopping budget, I'm looking to emulate this goal aesthetic on a slightly more affordable budget.
Enter this shopping list. While keeping an eye out for specific details like a Western trim on ankle boots or whipstitching on a jacket, I've landed on 26 pieces that fit the overall mood of a cool minimalist wardrobe while still remaining largely wallet friendly. In other words, they only look ultra-elevated. With that, continue on to see the more affordable gems I'm currently eyeing.
Off-the-shoulder silhouettes are the backbone of the Khaite wardrobe right now.
Yep, I know an expensive-looking item when I see one.
One cool carryall, coming right up.
There are plenty of denim skirts on the market, but the stitching and hem length on this one are really good.
Yeah, I had to do a double take when I saw this, too. It looks like something you could only find from an emerging designer, no?
These are honestly a pretty good alternative to the Dallas boots.
Sequins the cool-girl way.
Stripes are a must.
The streamlined shape instantly elevates this shearling jacket.
Get yourself a classic leather belt. It's what designer Catherine Holstein would want.
Big yes to this whipstitching.
Fun and unique but still so wearable.
Get in my cart.
Glean some styling ideas from Khaite's lookbooks and pair this with sheer tights and pumps.
For all your bikercore needs.
Because I haven't stopped thinking about (or trying to re-create) that iconic Katie Holmes cardigan moment since 2019.
Jaws will drop.
Get yourself a pair of well-tailored straight-leg jeans to wear with, well, everything.
COS does easy minimalism so well.
A moment for these sleeves, please.
Certifiably cool.
It honestly looks so expensive.
Another excellent denim skirt that's somehow under $100.
Ruching is a Khaite signature.
The It shoe style of 2023.
Loading up on leather.
Next: I'm Starting Off 2023 Right—27 Cool Finds That Are Already on My Radar
-
I Compared Holiday Wish Lists With My Stylish Friends—These 30 Gifts Made Every Single OneSee what made the list.
-
10 Winter 2026 Wardrobe Staples to Gift to Yourself This DecemberYou deserve it.
-
5 Sweater Styles Every 2025 Winter Wardrobe NeedsOur must-have knitwear list.
-
If Chic Jeans-and-Boots Outfits Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standout Picks From Zara, Madewell, and NordstromBring on a stylish fall-and-winter closet.
-
Nordstrom Just Dropped the 5 Winter Trends All the Coolest Girls Will Be Wearing Next MonthShop the edit inside.
-
Paige DeSorbo Just Gave Us an Exclusive Holiday Gift Guide—It's Giving Grown-Up Eloise at the PlazaWe'll take one of everything.
-
It's Here: Our Fancy Winter Dress EditConsider your holiday plans covered.
-
30 Under-$500 Winter Items I'm Absolutely Buying From Revolve Next MonthYou should too.
