Like everyone else right now I've done enough online window shopping this week to last a lifetime. Lately, I've been spending way too much time on my phone, which means way too much time on Instagram, which also means way too much time spent oohing and aahing over some of my favorite fashion girl outfits. And some of the pieces I've noticed consistently popping up on my feed? Leather pants, minimalist tanks, and preppy lightweight knits. I love how effortless it is to style all of those pieces, so yes, my current shopping list features a ton of them.
I'm not shy about splurging on a designer bag or coat I consider worth the investment, but for the most part, I like to shop on the cheap. With that in mind, the bulk of the items I've been eyeing are all reasonably priced at $250 and under. And contrary to what you might think, yup, it's absolutely possible to look like a bonafide fashion girl without spending your entire rent check. From sleek everyday sneakers to elevated spring dresses read ahead to see all of the affordable finds currently filling up my bookmarks tab.
The Drop
Michelle Scoop Neck Tank Top
I stock up on simple, flattering white tanks like these for the warmer seasons.
Lulus
It's a Vibe Crop Flare Faux Leather Pants
I'm really into the high-waist, cropped cut. I'm already envisioning an outfit pairing these with the white tank above.
Vanlinker
Rectangle Sunglasses
The addition of yellow lenses is unexpected yet cool.
Collusion
Floral Jacquard Knitted Vest
These sort of hand-drawn florals are peak quirky Brooklyn girl style and I'm not mad.
Zara
Thin Strap Sandals
Really– what outfit won't these look amazing with?
H&M
Wide Leg Jeans
I'm the queen of wide-leg jeans.
Zara
Satin Effect Top
As simple as it looks, a silky-satin shirt really makes everything look way more expensive. This cornflower blue is superbly dreamy.
The Drop
Fitted Racer Tank Sweater
When I need a tank that's a little more heavy-weight.
Who What Wear
Kory Faux Leather Tote
How expensive does this bag look?
H&M
Collared Ribbed Top
I wouldn't call my style preppy, but collared button-down tops like these have been calling my name.
Zara
Jacquard Animal Detail Dress
Just throw this on and your outfit is basically sorted.
Missoma
Silver Medium Claw Hoop Earrings
Missoma has great quality jewelry for less than you'd expect.
Reformation
Boyfriend Sweatpants
Yup, I'm adding more to my sweatpants collection.
Hoka One One
Bondi 7 Running Shoe
I've been looking for sleek all-black running shoes for a minute, and runners I know love Hoka One. They're chic enough I won't mind wearing them outside of my weekly jogs.
H&M
Oversized Coat
Trench season is on the horizon.
Afrm
Mari Long Sleeve Turtleneck Mesh Dress
After scrolling Nordstrom's new arrivals this dress immediately caught my attention; I'm so ready for it to be warm again.
Cuup
The Balconette Mesh Bra
Everyone on my Instagram feed seems to be into CUUP's Balconette Mesh bra so I'm eager to see what the hype is all about.
Reformation
Waffle Zip Top
This avocado-y shade of green is so pretty.
Adidas
Adilette Clogs
Before you scroll past, hear me out: soft clogs feel like walking on air and if you have to buy a pair they might as well be from Adidas.
Savant Studios
Black Is Beautiful Delux Bucket Hat
I'm a faithful adherent of bucket hats for bad hair days.
& Other Stories
Relaxed Cargo Trousers
These cargo pants are so damn cool. Add a simple link chain, and a white racerback tank and you've nailed the fashion girl aesthetic.
Converse
Chuck Taylor Hike High Top Platform Sneakers
Never thought I'd describe sneakers as cozy, but it's truly the most fitting word for these quilted platform Chucks.
Anissa Kermiche
Grand Fil D'Argent Silver-Plated Earrings
I'm an advocate of flashy, fancy earrings.
Reformation
Rylan Two Piece Sleeveless Dress
The midriff cut-out is different than the ones I've been seeing, and I love how simplistic it is.
Hosbjerg
Anna Pants
Hosbjerg's latest collection continues to thrill me–I mean, these pants?! P.S., Now through February 28th, get 15% off site-wide at Lisa Says Gah by signing up for The List, Who What Wear's free membership program that includes exclusive discount codes and other perks.
Zara
Leather Jacket
For my leather jackets, I like to go the genuine leather route: I find that they last longer and can take a beating without looking dingy. This is one of the most affordable ones I've spotted all season.
Missoma
Engravable Heart Locket Necklace
I'm thoroughly looking forward to stacking this atop all of my gold chains.
Indya Brown is a fashion editor, stylist, and writer living in Los Angeles. After graduating in 2016, she joined The Cut as a fashion assistant, eventually working her way up to fashion editor. While New York has been her home for over 10 years, she moved to Los Angeles in the midst of the pandemic in 2020 for a new chapter where she started working at Who What Wear, focusing on emerging designers, rising trends on and off the internet, interior design, and BIPOC creatives and brands. Aside from her work at Who What Wear, Brown is also a freelance stylist and writer, working on national print and video commercial campaigns for Sephora, The Independent, and Cadillac. Her bylines also include Harper's Bazaar, Vox, and The New York Times.