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.
So cute and playful. One of my best friends is all about this style.
I'm into this tank because the styling possibilities are endless.
It's all about a tailored vest this season.
You could easily dress this skirt up or down.
A longline blouse is a modern staple.
Excellent denim cut.
Feeling the details here.
Wear this cardigan as a layering piece or as an alt to a top.
Talk about statement making.
Sweet slides.
A no-fail basic.
Bring instant polish to your wardrobe.
Flawless silhouette.
You'll use this classic bag for seasons.
Cutouts are one of the key details of the season.
Wear this dress as a cover-up or for a night out.
A striking color.
Slip into your favorite pair of sandals and you're good to go.
The slit hem is a great accent.
All about a skort RN.
Adorable.
A chic top with your favorite pair of high-waisted jeans.
Beautiful flats.
Try as a dress or open with a tee and jeans.
An of-the-moment tee.
Just so cute.
Talk about a pretty dress.
A versatile top.
These sandals would look quite cool with tube socks.
Stunning maxi dress.
Next, check out more chic summer items.
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Count on It—These 43 Fall Finds Will Be Sold Out by September 1I'm rarely wrong about these things.
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I Know, I Know, Summer's Not Over, But I Can't Get These 45 Affordable Suede Finds Off of My MindThese look so luxe.
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I'm Getting a Jumpstart on Fall Shopping—33 Affordable Key Pieces You'd Find In a Wealthy Person's ClosetIt girl-approved.
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We're Over Halfway Through 2025, and 90% of what I've Bought So Far Is From These 11 BrandsWe all have our favorites.
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Found: The $60 Designer-Coded Zara Skirt Chic People in Milan Will LoveIt's runway-worthy.
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I Accidentally Started a Capsule Wardrobe When I Added These COS, Madewell, and J.Crew Items Into My ClosetAnd I got rid of all the pieces that couldn't compete.
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Give Your Denim Outfits a Chic Boost With These 21 Jeans From the Madewell SaleTwenty percent off? Done and done.
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Trust Me—Buy These 25 ThingsSorry not sorry.
