I'm a picky shopper. Although I'm a shopping-obsessed editor, it takes a lot for me to actually commit to fashion purchases. I need to love them. They need to be worth it. They need to have a fashion-forward cool factor that I'll want to wear on repeat. But all that doesn't mean they need to be expensive. Sure, I'm all for buying quality investment pieces, but sometimes, I find a chic and affordable option that will get just as much wear and just as many compliments.
When I come across an affordable piece that I think is worth it, I add it to my cart pronto and, of course, excitedly share it with you, our dear readers. And this is exactly what I'm doing today. Below, I'm sharing the coolest affordable finds I've laid my eyes on this season that even I—a picky shopper—am really impressed by. Take a look below for the summer finds that I think are worth it, from elevated basics to trendy statement pieces. Best of all, everything is priced under $80.
Mango
Knit Openwork Sweater Dress
Pack this luxe-looking crochet dress for your next vacation (just like Blanca Miro above).
Mango
Beads Strap Bag
A beaded bag will amp up your basics.
4th & Reckless
Mirel Ribbed Sleeveless Top
I ordered this expensive-looking top a week ago, and I've worn it nonstop since.
Mango
Heel Non-Structured Sandals
Get these now while they're just $50.
Zara
Full Length Pants
It's all about relaxed, breezy trousers this summer.
Zara
Off the Shoulder Linen Blend Blazer
How expensive does this top look?
H&M
Leather Slides
Easy slides you'll wear on repeat.
Karen Kane
High Waist Pleated Shorts
Linen shorts are a summer must.
& Other Stories
Organic Pearl Bead Necklace
Modern pearls add a luxe touch to any ensemble.
H&M
Tie-Detail Dress
Is it even summer without a dreamy white dress?
8 Other Reasons
London Earrings
These could pass for vintage.
H&M
Waffled Jersey Dress
Wear with flats and heels alike.
Urban Outfitters
Ellie Strappy Heel
These chic sandals also come in tan and black.
Zara
Large Floral Bikini Top
I could see Carrie Bradshaw in this.
Sunglass Museum
Vintage Slim Mod Sunglasses
Sporty sunglasses will add an instantly cool touch.
Mango
Knitted Cropped Top
A pretty summer top to pair with your jeans, skirts, and shorts.
Zara
Leather Fisherman Sandals
I've been waiting for these fisherman sandals to go on sale. Hurrah!
Light Before Dark
Pink Linen Notched Mini Skirt
Get yourself an of-the-moment miniskirt in a bright and bold hue.
Zara
Woven Slingback Flats
Metallic shoes literally go with everything.
H&M
Padded-Cup Swimsuit
Shimmer in the ocean.
Five and Two
Florence Hoops
Time to give your hoops an update.
& Other Stories
Relaxed Linen Shorts
There's something about white linen shorts that always looks so effortlessly elegant.
Zara
Striped Basket
Tote your essentials in style.
Mango
Bow Leather Ballerina
Ballet flats are back in a big way.
Grey Lab
Crossover Rib Halter Tank
Such a sleek silhouette.
Charles & Keith
White Embellished Toe-Ring Flat Sandals
Versatile and chic.
Mango
Striped Jersey Dress
Another perfect vacation dress.
H&M
Cotton Twill Sun Hat
Finish your look with a pretty floral sun hat.
Zara
Draped Linen Blend Dress
A linen dress that will incite all the compliments.
Lioness
Harlow Satin Mini Dress
Simple yet striking.
H&M
Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts
I love polished shorts.
Urban Outfitters
Capri Thong Sandal
Cushy thong sandals will never let you down.
Reformation
Royal Knit Tank
Wow.
CYHTWSJD
Shoulder Bag
You can't go wrong with a '90s minimalist silhouette.
Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She 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.