29 Expensive-Looking H&M Basics Under $50

last updated 14 September 2022

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All hail H&M. Honestly, as a fashion editor, I look at a lot of new-in products every day across high-street and luxury fashion. And after all these years, the affordable hero still manages to pull it out of the bag with some of my favorite wardrobe pieces each season. The H&M design team just seems to know exactly what I want to wear—which right now is elevated capsule pieces that make me look like I have a much bigger budget than I actually do. And the latest new-in drop serves exactly that purpose.

It’s full of simple, minimalist wardrobe basics with a stylish twist. Think draped jersey dresses, ribbed tops with modern sweetheart necklines, and expensive-looking suits with just the right amount of slouch that could easily pass as designer, all in a crisp palette of creams, greys, and monochrome shades. Not to mention, all the best pieces come in under $50.

Of course, if you’re looking for wardrobe staples like these with more longevity and premium fabrics, and you’re in a position to invest more, it’s always worth doing so. But as we head into this strange trans-seasonal time, if you’re looking for affordable pieces to upgrade your workwear wardrobe or refresh your date-night outfits, I recommend scrolling down to see this edit for a guaranteed confidence boost. My one piece of advice? Don’t hang around on the pieces you fall for. We all know how fast a cult H&M piece can sell out.

Shop Expensive-Looking H&M Basics

H&M

Fitted Jersey Dress

Note the subtle ruching on this dress.

H&M

Shacket

Creme-hued pieces always look luxe.

H&M

Fitted Top

Could have sworn this was Khaite.

H&M

High-Waist Dress Pants

Trousers are a perennial favorite.

H&M

Collared Rib-Knit Dress

So chic.

H&M

Oversized Single-Breasted Jacket

A simple black blazer never fails to look posh.

H&M

Rib-Knit Tank Top

Ribbed knit tanks will always be a luxe basic in my mind.

H&M

Wide-Leg Pants

Another great trouser!

H&M

Heeled Sandals

Never underestimate how luxe a pair of slingback heels can look.

H&M

Oversized Shirt Dress

The perfect addition to your work wardrobe.

H&M

Double-Breasted Jacket

Peak fall energy.

H&M

Long-Sleeved Jersey Top

You'll wear this with everything.

H&M

Wide-Leg Pants

Can you tell we love trousers?

H&M

Pointed Flats

Ballet flats will be big this fall, so this pair is the perfect purchase.

H&M

Oversized Rib-Knit Sweater

So cozy.

H&M

Oversized Oxford Shirt

A crisp oxford shirt will always be a must-have in our books.

H&M

Boxy T-Shirt

Ideal for layering.

H&M

Narrow Belt

Belts can make any outfit look more expensive.

H&M

Tailored Jersey Pants

Pinstripe pants? Don't mind if we do.

H&M

Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots are always a great buy.

H&M

Rib-Knit Bodycon Dress

The ribbed detail on this dress screams "rich."

H&M

Oversized Single-Breasted Jacket

Love, love, love.

H&M

V-Neck Blouse

Nothing beats a satin blouse.

H&M

Pleated Skirt

It's giving Miu Miu, but for less money.

H&M

Oversized Sweater

Now all you need is a cozy cottage to go with this jumper.

H&M

Vintage Straight High Jeans

A great pair of jeans will have you feeling like a million bucks.

H&M

Rib-Knit Sweater

Benton stripes will always be chic.

H&M

Wide-Cut Satin Pants

Just imagine how comfy these trousers will be on you.

H&M

Quilted Shoulder Bag

Designer bags move to the left.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.

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Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for the Who What Wear brand.

Emily has worked for Who What Wear UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely with Who What Wear UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, team Who What Wear is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.

Prior to joining the Who What Wear team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.

When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.

Emily is currently on maternity leave.