When the year started, I made it a point to diligently avoid overspending. But let me tell you, with all the fun trends and options out there right now, that's hard to do. Luckily, Zara, H&M, and Amazon make it easier.
After what seems like many years in sweatpants, I've found a new love of clothes again. From finding comfortable fabrics (hello, silk) to getting inspiration from tastemakers (hello, SJP!), I'm ready to step out. And Zara, H&M, and, yes, Amazon have some great, affordable pieces that won't send me into a tailspin. A shoestring budget isn't always easy to work with, but they don't call me Sherlock Clothes for anything. So they don't actually call me that, but you get the gist.
This spring, I'm putting my money where my mouth is and trying to actually respect my small budget. Let's face it: It's wise to be conscious of what you spend your money on. So I've found some of the best and brightest that won't break the bank. From new trends to tried-and-true oldies but goodies, there's something for everyone—especially for those of us who want to treat ourselves (without the stress-induced bank log-in immediately after purchase).
Zara
Split Slim Jeans
A straight-leg pair of jeans will never go out of style.
Lioness
Palermo Blazer
The definition of polished.
Zara
Poplin Top With Ruffles
I had to stop myself from buying two.
H&M
Dressy Jersey Pants
Slouchy and tan trousers are it.
H&M
90s Baggy Ultra High Waist Jeans
Reasonably priced jeans? A match made in heaven.
H&M
Short Twill Skirt
A little pleated skirt is a no-brainer in my book.
H&M
Rib-Knit Dress
I can't wait to live in this Friday through Sunday.
Amazon
Slim-Fit Tank
I will never have enough tank tops in this lifetime.
H&M
Shirt Dress
Dress it down with jeans or wear it solo; you'll get many outfits thanks to one dress.
H&M
Ribbed Jersey Dress
Perfect for summer nights or easy mornings.
H&M
Faux Suede Slingbacks
Slingback of my dreams.
Zara
Belted Printed Dress
Buying this for that vacation I haven't planned yet.
Zara
Voluminous Mini Dress
Ready for my big break.
Vanlinker
Rectangle Yellow Sunglasses
The future is bright, my friends.
H&M
Quilted Jacket
It's almost unbelievable how cute this jacket is.
Zara
Satin Effect Cut Out Dress
Regardless of how you felt about a certain *reboot,* won't you join me in trying to dress like Carrie Bradshaw? Plus, this one is TikTok famous.
R.Vivimos
Linen Short Sleeve Ruffled Dress
I'll live in this for the foreseeable future.
H&M
Trenchcoat
A chic trench for under $100.
Yogalicious
High Waisted Biker Shorts
With pockets? I'll take two.
Zara
Heeled Sandals
H&M
Tie-Belt Twill Coat
Early morning coffee runs never felt so chic.
Zara
Embroidered Textured Bustier
Even better, add the blazer and pants for a perfect outfit.