I Asked Our Fashion Editors What I Should Buy With $100—14 Items They Suggested
I love the thrill of getting my hands on a fresh new fashion item, but with a European vacation behind me, a new car lease, and several home updates I’ve had to make this summer, I’ve put myself on a tight budget when it comes to shopping this season.
Now that we’ve entered into August and fall is just around the corner, I’m focused on transeasonal pieces that can see me through the summer and beyond. And who better to glean some affordable fashion tips from than the people who basically shop for a living—my fellow editors! I asked them to share their suggestions for what to buy with $100 this month. From versatile black dresses to strapless tops and cord necklaces, their chic suggestions below have something for everything.
"It is so ridiculously hot right now that all I can fathom wearing are shorts and this perfect lightweight, oversize T-shirt. I already have it in black, and the white and gray are on the way to me. Therefore, I'm telling everyone I know who may also be hot right now to order it." — Payer
"While simple in nature, I think this dress is so elegant. It's one of those special pieces you could dress up or down." — Schuessler
"It may seem basic, but crisp button-downs are all I want to wear right now, and they're the perfect transitional piece as we head into fall. We saw a deluge of button-down shirts on the F/W 23 runways, and after seeing Kaia Gerber's white shirt outfit at the recent Valentino Couture show, I simply can't wait to copy the look for myself." — Jones
"Another elevated basic I'm suggesting to all my friends is this versatile knit top from Reformation. The neckline is so chic and is easy to dress up or down, wear to work, on the weekend, and beyond." — Jones
"If I can't shut up about this Free People dress, just know it's for a good reason. I wear mine at least once a week because it's incredibly comfortable and perfect for the hot weather. Now I'm adding the blush and white versions to my cart." — LaPlaca
"Since a lot of barrel jeans come at a hefty price point, this $98 pair from Free People is a stellar deal. I have not shut up about them since I got them, and I'm always asked where they're from when I wear them out. I own them in blue, but I'm seriously considering adding the white pair to my wardrobe." — Siddiqui
"I feel like when it comes to the basics, my wardrobe is locked and loaded right now, so I'm on the hunt for playful accessories to make things more exciting. This necklace is a simple way to dress up any outfit in your closet and make it feel like summer." — Mayhew
"This sleek and simple top is perfect for sweltering temperatures. It's also a great blank canvas for showing off a pretty statement necklace." — Fitzpatrick
"I truly cannot ever have enough striped sweaters. They're just so classic and go with everything. This Gap one looks more expensive than it really is." — Fitzpatrick
"This might look like any black tank from the front, but the open-back detailing makes all the difference, turning it into a wardrobe item with the power to make any outfit a standout one." — Grace Huber,
"I genuinely want this top in every color. It's an elevated basic at its finest. The mock neck and the ruching on the side make it a pretty option for mixing and matching with your favorite bottoms. Plus, it doesn't hurt that it's less than $50." — Offor
"I'm all about strapless dresses this summer. This pretty denim one from Eloquii is so gorgeous. I'd pair it with cute sandals and maybe a cute rosette wrap necklace." — Offor
"Embellished bags are trending at the moment, but in my book, they are a timeless addition to any wardrobe, especially when it comes to more formal occasions. This one is super chic and looks designer to boot." — Camp Forbes
"Whimsical jewelry is a personal favorite. I especially love when a piece makes a subtle statement, and this necklace does just that." — Camp Forbes
Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
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