I Played Stylist for My Friend and Pulled These Zara, H&M, and Madewell Items

As the fashion editor in my friend group, I'm typically the go-to source for shopping and style recommendations. One of my friends recently asked me for my advice on a few affordable finds she could add to her offering to upgrade her wardrobe. I played personal stylist and ended up going through three go-to stores for many—Zara, H&M, and Madewell. There were five front-runners I sent her (the first in the grouping coming your way below).
In addition, I thought you might be interested in some more shopping inspiration, so I went through the trio of stores and pulled out a smattering of other fresh finds that piqued my interest. Included in the mix? There are strong tailoring items like oversize blazers and loose trousers, chic accessories that ring in under $50, and trend-forward basics that could easily become essentials in a wardrobe. Keep scrolling for more.
Next, check out more chic summer items.

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent 10 years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises.
-
The Anti–Ballet Flats French and Italian Brands Are Currently Smitten With
Chic flats, sans ballet.
-
The Items Everyone With Good Taste Is Eyeing From Free People
Caution: may cause shopping spree.
-
I Don't Know About You, But I Think These 31 Zara Items Are Incredibly Tempting
Your summer wardrobe reset is here.
-
A Tropical Vacation Is on the Cards—Here's What's in My Revolve, H&M, and Nordstrom Carts
For your next beach trip.
-
The Curvy Girl's Guide to Finding Pants That Fit Flawlessly
Waist gap, begone.
-
Only You and I Will Know These 29 Items Came From Zara
I won't tell if you don't.
-
I Finally Got Around to Creating My Annual Spring Shopbop Wish List—You're Welcome
Enjoy.
-
It's "All You Need Is a Light Jacket" Season—These 24 From Free People, Zara, and Mango Are 5-Star Candidates
Ensure your spring outerwear is in check.