These Affordable Picks Are Masquerading As Fancy, and Honestly I Was Fooled
I’m always looking for a good deal, especially when it comes to fashion. While I’ve been known to splurge once in awhile, usually on something I’ve carefully considered, I generally like to spend $150 or less on any given item. As someone who shops and writes about it for a living, it’s always an exciting day when I come across pieces that look much more expensive than they actually are. What's even more is I get to share them with you because, heck, sharing is caring!
There are a few things I consider when shopping for items on a budget. When looking at jeans, I always take into account their weight and if they feel like they’ll last more than a few seasons. I’ve found & Other Stories jeans to be of particularly high quality and at a fraction of the cost of more high-end retailers. Material is also big for me. Come spring and summer, I lean heavy into linen (as you’ll soon see) because while it gives off an expensive vibe, you can definitely find discount pieces. Satin is also a big trend for spring and inherently makes me feel fan-say.
So, if you want all the bang without the buck, don’t worry I’ve done the research for you. 30 affordable fashion items that’ll make you question their price tag are just below.
Nothing like a cherry red blazer to put some pep in your step.
Like I said, & Other Stories knows what they're doing when it comes to jeans.
I easily could have thought this was a $90 t-shirt.
One of my most fashionable friends turned me onto these button ups and I'm never looking back.
Don't sleep on Urban Outfitters' sunglass selection.
The drop stitch, the weave...this cardigan looks so much more expensive than $40.
I saw these on a certain fashion editor the other day and was shocked to learn they're under $30.
You can't make an affordable fashion list without including a pair of classic 501's.
Consider me officially in my satin pajama era.
Up Next: 5 Superior Outfit Formulas That Just Surfaced During Fashion Month
-
Blake Lively, Sofia Richie, and More Stylish Women Know These Jeans Are Better Than Designer
They're $98 but look way pricier.
By Eliza Huber
-
I Think People With Expensive Taste Would Love These Under-$100 Items From Nordstrom's Surprise Sale
Elevated selects.
By Bobby Schuessler
-
J.Lo Carried a $10K+ Bag With the Anti-Trend Wardrobe Item I Never Spend More Than $100 On
*Never.*
By Eliza Huber
-
Everything You Need to Look Elegant in 2025 Just Arrived at Nordstrom—Enjoy
New year, new clothes.
By Copelyn Bengel
-
36 Black Dresses From Zara, Mango, and J.Crew That'll Rake In the Compliments
Can't go wrong.
By Natalie Cantell
-
It's True—I Really Did Find All of Spring 2025's Top Trends for Under $200
Get ahead of your shopping.
By Copelyn Bengel
-
There's No Room in My Closet for More Shoes, But These Under-$100 Zara Pairs Are Too Good to Pass Up
Act fast.
By Grace O'Connell Joshua
-
The Best Under-$500 Suede Items From Shopbop, Nordstrom, and Revolve
The texture of the season.
By Caitlin Burnett