Given that, in its current state, my closet has done the very least to inspire me to be my best dressed self this season, I’ve been feeling like it needs a bit of an overhaul lately. Yet, somehow, I’ve nearly blown through my loosely self-imposed shopping budget for both fall and winter, and we're not even a quarter of the way through the colder half of the year yet. On top of that, I’m 5’2”, which never makes things easier in the fashion department. So what’s an editor to do?
Spoiler alert: She shops but very discerningly and, of course, frugally. Sure, it would be nice to browse all your favorite sites and simply purchase whatever you please, but sometimes it’s more enjoyable to limit your spending and still come out on top. To help in that department, I turned to some of my favorite affordable brands and retailers, such as H&M, Zara, and Nordstrom, all of which were rife with options coming in under my $50 budget. Ahead, see everything that caught my eye, including bags, shoes, jeans, tops, and more.
A beige blazer is just as versatile as a black one but so much more impactful in your wardrobe.
So technically, I already own this, but it's so good I just needed you to know about it.
I'm very into pleated skirts at the moment.
Any outfit can benefit from a touch of texture.
The cropped, boxy fit is perfect.
Just add high-waisted jeans and a blazer.
Everyday seems like an appropriate name for these.
Is it not the perfect clip for fall?
The color is everything.
Get that seamless tuck every time.
I saw a friend wearing this skirt at a party and almost didn't believe her when she told me the price.
They're just so cute.
It's basic, but no fall wardrobe is complete without a good black sweater.
Better than the basics I usually wear with jeans.
Swap your jeans out for these silky pants on your next night out.
The cool and comfortable choice.
The black button-down is a fall-and-winter must.
This will always be my favorite neckline.
Who knew I needed a checked sweater skirt so badly?
You'll be happy you have this once winter weather rolls around.
My favorite fall color and fabric come together in the perfect layer.
Swap your simple tank in for this seamed situation.
Just good jeans.
How to look luxe in flats.
The oversize fit is just so good and makes any outfit instantly feel forward.
The fabric alone is a statement.
Next time I'm about to put on a pair of basic leggings, somebody please stop me and remind me these exist.
The smallest layers make the biggest impact.
Such a rich shade.
Next: eight fall outfits NYC girls are actually wearing right now.
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Abercrombie Sucked Me Back Into Their Orbit With These 25 Incredibly Chic Fall 2025 FindsSo, so good.
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I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—27 Incredibly Chic Fall Finds That Will Get You More Bang for Your BuckStellar under-$150 finds right this way.
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These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)Here's to effortless outfits.
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Don't Blame Me If They Sell Out While You Read This—35 Chic Zara Finds That Need Your Immediate AttentionThese won't be around for long.
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I'm an Experienced Fashion Editor—I Predict These 32 New Arrivals Will Sell Out by FallTake my word for it.
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Millennials Love to Hate These Controversial "Sneakerinas"—Here's My Honest ReviewHot take: I love them.
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I Style Celebrities for a Living—5 Fall Items My Clients Always Love Without FailThe ultimate fall shopping list.
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I Live in Brooklyn and Have Laid-Back, Cool Style—Here's Everything I Want From Nordstrom Right NowTrust me. These items will sell out fast.
