I try to be as strategic as possible when making a purchase to ensure something is truly worth the investment. As a result, I have a little pre–"add to cart" checklist before I make any sort of shopping decision. This includes deciphering an item's cost per wear and also reading customer reviews religiously to get that insider intel on a product. One store I tend to hit up on the regular for its massive offering of on-trend must-haves and engaging customer review section is Nordstrom.
In fact, after scrolling through a range of products recently while working on another story, I noticed that a lot of the coolest, affordable, and forward basic clothing items actually are also top-rated with at least 4 out of 5 stars. To show you what I mean, I rounded up the best jeans, coats, knits, and more all under $100. I also included one of the actual customer reviews for each to help better inform your next purchase.
Denim
"These are my favorite pair of Levi’s. They can go with everything, true to size, straight leg, and very flattering."—Haleymars
"The Roadtripper is the most comfy jean I own. Hands down. I'm a size 28 in most jeans and this jean was TTS. It's a stretchy jean that allows comfort and keeps its shape all day. No saggy or baggy jeans after an eight-hour work shift. It's worth the price if you're looking for quality and comfort in a skinny jean."—SarahB07
"These jeans are amazing! The rips on the knees are super unique and the straight-leg fit is perfect. I have gotten so many compliments while wearing these. Keep in mind they are a 32 length so they do run long. You can roll the bottom to get more a cropped look. I also sized up one size because they do run a bit small but I also wanted a looser and baggier fit."—KatePP
"I love these, the fit is exactly as pictured, not too tight or close to the body below the knee. Easy to wear, comfortable and they look good."—Fluff
"It is fitted throughout the top, down to the thigh and has a straight leg all the way down after the knee. I am so glad I invested in these."—Mcam7
Knits
"So comfy and warm. Great around the house, but stylish to wear out in this year's sherpa fabric."—Tarheelbabs
"Great fabric, fit and price. Fit is true to size—highly recommend adding this top to your wardrobe."—Ilikeme2
"Fun and rich-looking sweater Warm and nice. Like the little extra distressed look around the neckline. I bought the color navy and it is a very rich color. It is a bit loose so I would get one size down. Unless you like it very loose."—Shahrzadz
"Super soft. Surprisingly great fit. Definitely warm. I loved the lightness of the sweater—it still keeps me warm though. I got several compliments on it!"—Ilimgm
"Was nervous this was going to be itchy but no, it's the softest sweater and is so cozy. Highly recommend."—MeganT101
Dresses
"Gorgeous! Great material and cut. This will be a perfect fall to winter, winter to spring transition dress."—NicoleWie
"This dress is so cozy and soft yet looked elegant and put together. I wore with black heeled booties." —Arepea
"I'm not one for writing reviews, but I couldn't help myself. This dress is so gorgeous. The tie-dye contrasts strongly against the black, which makes it stand out, and the mesh feels great, as does the full, detachable slip. It'll look great on its own, but I also plan to do it under blazers and motos or without the underpinning, but over jeans."—Bellamezzo
"This is a nice dress to just throw on and run out the door. The plunge neckline is definitely deeper than shown in the photo. The front slit is a little delicate. No long strides in this dress."—ArconaRocks
Shoes
"Very elegant and professional with pants or pencil skirt. Dresses up jeans. I got the white/black combo and am very happy with the quality."—Norskita
"Great shoes! Such cute white sneakers and the subtle navy and green add some character. They are very comfortable. I have just worn then a few times so far and have received several compliments."—Amythsp
"Love these, great for work! I would say they run slightly narrow, I have a narrow foot so this is fine for me. Usually, I have gaps all around when I try on loafers."—ACFoster
"Really cute in the snakeskin print. My daughter has gotten tons of compliments. Great price point for something trendy."—9636301
"I love these shoes! The fit is excellent and the look can be dressed up or down."—StyleSenior
"Great slip-on sneaker. I purchased the pink color and it's a perfect color for spring and into summer. The are soft and flexible, wear them with a sock or not, they are a comfortable shoe. Glad I purchased."—Poppy66
Outerwear
"Warm and stylish. So soft inside and outside looks like leather."—ShopitNow
"Love this peacoat. Great quality, fits well. I'm 5'9" and always worry about the sleeves being too short. No worries with this coat. Honestly, it's a steal for the price."—LuHB
"This is a fabulous piece! Very mod and so affordable. I love it."—Fashionforwardalways
"Very happy I purchased. Not only was it a good price, but it also fits well, is beautiful (I bought the burgundy) and have gotten lots of compliments."—Tav35
"I bought the pink one and love the color! The material is very soft and comfy. I like that you can cinch it at the waist to give you a more flattering look. It's really warm!"—Hellokittylove
Next, check out 46 cheap and chic items to buy if you want to look posh in 2020.
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