It's my birthday, and you know what that means—it's time to treat myself. I've never been one to resist the siren call of a Parisian-inspired hair clip and a cozy cardigan, so today, I'm tossing my 2025 low-buy goal out of the window and curating a collection of affordable yet luxurious-looking finds to ring in my 26th year in style.
Working in the fashion industry often has me itching to add something new to my cart, and unfortunately, my taste has only gotten more expensive as I've aged. It doesn't mean I'm opposed to a good bargain hunt, though. I've spent the last couple of hours scrolling through my favorite low-cost, high-joy retailers to find impeccable under-$50 items. If you're looking to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank, this is your guide to on-trend, guilt-free purchases. Scroll down to see what has caught my eye on my big day this year. I promise it's worth it!
I've been leaning into the elevated Canadian tuxedo recently, featuring billowy, oversize soft denim shirts and matching dark-wash jeans.
I've been highly anticipating the return of pillbox hats over the last few months, and now that they're fully back, this sub-$25 option is calling my name.
There's nothing that makes me feel as grown-up as elegant underwear.
Obsessed.
I'm obsessed with how chic this scarf styling looks—so much so that I'm buying the scarf-and-sweater set to copy this look from head to toe.
I gasped when I saw how well-priced these are.
Although I stumbled across Selór in late 2024, I've been buying up all of the brand's chic hair accessories as little birthday gifts for my loved ones months in advance.
Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy would be proud.
The birthday girl loves a pop of red.
Such a simple, effective way to elevate any slouchy sweater or scarf this winter.
Okay, H&M, I see you with the suede flats!
The cool girl–approved bag charm is here and cheaper than ever.
IYKYK.
I've always loved the look of micro-fishnet tights under jeans and skirts, and I already own a couple of pairs in black. This year, though, I'm into subtle, elevated hues for my tights, so this rich mocha is on my buy list.
This timeless cropped coat is half off right now.
Cute!
The perfect going-out top to celebrate my special day with my friends.
I'm bringing the classics with me into 2025.
Haven't you heard? Olive green is one of the colors of the year.
No words necessary.
H&M's ultra-affordable shirts have never failed me.
Rawr.
Can you tell I can't say no to a leopard accessory?
I'm about to snag this TikTok-viral pair.
This Zara coat has served me well for years, but now, I definitely need an upgrade with a version that doesn't have a hole in the pocket. (Oops!)
This is the year of the suede accessory in my eyes.
Khaite bag on a Zara budget? Say less.
The born-and-bred Miami girl in me still can't stand the cold, so I'm opting for this comically oversize furry bucket hat to make a statement in sub-zero temperatures.
Adorable.
I'll leave you with this pretty scarf.
