I'm an Expert Amazon Basics Shopper—These 3 Under-$30 Finds Are So Good IRL

Hi, I'm Allyson and I try on lots of Amazon basics (a few examples here, here, and here). I'm well aware that Amazon can be a very overwhelming place, so I'm here to help you navigate the fashion aspect of it whenever I can. (When it comes to lightbulbs and electronics, you're on your own.) Recently I ordered a few basics that I'm sure will take me straight into spring. The reviews were good and they're all under $30, so I thought, why not?

I'm happy to report that my order was a successful one, as all three items are keepers. I went with a pair of khaki pants (a trend you're going to want to buy before spring), a wildly popular turtleneck sweater, and a lightweight crewneck sweater that's perfect for spring. Keep scrolling to see my latest Amazon basics obsessions and shop them for yourself if I've successfully convinced you.

The Item:

Daily Ritual Washed Chino Wide Leg Pant

My review: Who knew khaki pants could actually be flattering? I think the trick with these is that they're high-waisted, stretchy but not too stretchy, and the perfect amount of cropped (for reference, I'm 5'4"). To be honest, I was a bit skeptical that these would work, as pants can be oh so hit or miss, but I like them and will wear them out in the world (although they're also comfortable enough for WFH).

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Also wearing: Aritzia Tessin Sweater ($99); Birkenstock Arizona Genuine Shearling Slide Sandals ($125); Langzhen Unisex Baseball Cap ($11)

Shop the pants:

The Item:

Amazon Essentials Classic Fit Lightweight Long-Sleeve Turtleneck Sweater

My review: I was drawn to this turtleneck because it has almost 3k reviews and almost 5 stars. Impressive. Based on the fit on the model, I went with my usual size small, but it is a bit of a more relaxed fit on me, and to have it be more of a layering piece, I would recommend sizing down. The ribbed fabric makes it feel cozy and look far more expensive than $20, and there are lots of colors to fulfill all of your turtleneck needs. I photographed it tucked and untuck so that you can get a feel for the length of it.

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Also wearing: Beyond Yoga Heather Rib Midi Joggers ($110)

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Also wearing: Madewell x Kule Relaxed Dadjeans ($100)

Shop the turtleneck:

The Item:

Daily Ritual 100% Cotton Mock-Neck Pullover Sweater

My review: Maybe it's wishful thinking since winter is still in full swing, but I've been on the hunt for lightweight spring sweaters lately, and this one fit the bill. It's certainly breathable and won't make you sweat if it's mild-ish outside, but it isn't so thin that it looks cheap and wrinkly. When I took it out of the package, I thought it might be a little snug, but it fit perfectly, with the ideal amount of slouch.

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(Image credit: @allypayer)

Also wearing: Beyond Yoga Heather Rib Midi Joggers ($110)

Shop the sweater:

Shop More of My Favorite Under-$30 Amazon Finds

Next up, 3 special Amazon basics that look great with skinny jeans.

Allyson Payer
Senior Editor

Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.