In true millennial fashion, I am all for spending my money on experiences over things. Now said experiences might include an $8 latte and $12 avocado toast, which could keep me from buying a house anytime soon, but, hey, it's about living in the present, right? That said, you will rarely find me spending loads of money on stuff. At a young age, my mom trained me to dig through the sale racks to find hidden gems. She created a deal-hungry shopping animal who is always on the hunt for a fashionable steal.
Lucky for you, I’ve done the hard work and scoured the internet to find 20 of the most stylish items on the market right now, all for under $49. After all, style doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. From chic summer dresses to statement-handle bags, these pieces all look really expensive but won’t cut too much into your paycheck. At this rate, you’ll be able to start a retirement fund, take your parents to dinner, and maybe even book a vacation all while looking fabulous. Scroll through to score some pretty awesome deals on these top 20 trends. The price tags can be our little secret.
A Feminine Frock
You know that one piece in your closet you ALWAYS gravitate toward? Yep, this dress will be just that. It's cute, comfortable and universally flattering. What more could you ask for?
A Ladylike Headband
If Blair and Serena had a baby it would be this headband. Maybe if we all start wearing B's favorite accessory in S's wild snake print, they will bring Gossip Girl back.
Baggy Utility Shorts
These breezy babies basically feel like pajamas but are office-appropriate. The bold stitching gives shape and structure to the soft linen blend.
Artsy Earrings
It's actually insane that these earrings are only $21. They are a conversation piece and will elevate even the simplest look.
A Cool Long-Sleeve Tee
Tie-dye has pretty much turned into a neutral at this point in the game, especially in softer colors like this muted green. A long-sleeve tee is a summer essential. It can fit in most bags and will keep you warm on those chilly summer nights.
A Structured Top-Handle Bag
Woah, this bag is under $40?! The basket weave wicker purse is continuing to have its moment. During summer, it literally can be worn with every outfit, from day to night. Hurry because it's on sale and might be gone soon.
Printed Kick Flares
These pants are an the ultimate outfit-maker and surprisingly can be worn many different ways. You can turn ladylike gingham into Avril Lavigne punk-rock-chic. (I bought them in both gingham and leopard.)
A Fun Chain For Your Sunnies
If you're like me, you are always misplacing your sunnies. This lime green acrylic chain solves that problem so the next time you "lose" them, they will be hanging around your neck.
A Bold Button-Down Top
This top will demand compliments everywhere you go. The oversize buttons and two-tone design is super unique and expensive-looking.
Structural Mules
This season is all about cool cutouts and asymmetrical lines on a mid-height mule. These toe-ring slides will add a pop to any outfit.
A Versatile Printed Scarf
Scarves are no longer just accessories. This can be worn around your neck, wrist, head, and bag, but it also makes the cutest little tube top. Can you believe it's only $13?
An Ultra-Soft Boyfriend Tee
Rocker tees and satin skirts are pretty much my uniform in the spring and summer. Size up in your tee so you can tuck, crop, and tie it for that effortless "I stole this from my boyfriend" vibe.
Chainlink Shell Jewelry
Finally, an expensive-looking gold shell necklace that you don't have to feel guilty about buying. This statement piece is the accessory of summer. Wear it to the beach and beyond.
A Silky Skirt
If you don't have a satin skirt in your closet, we aren't friends. It's a great piece for people who don't like to wear constricting pants (aka me when I eat too much). It's the perfect styling piece with sneakers to look cute but also be comfortable.
A Puffy-Sleeve Top
A little sweet with a skin-baring edge, this pretty top is for the fancy casual girl who likes compliments.
A Wear-With-Everything Belt
This is the belt that should be in everybody's closet. You can wear it with jeans and a tee, layer it over a dress, or even throw it over a baggy blazer. It's a chic and subtle waist cinch that only costs you $20.
A High-Slit Halter Dress
This gorgeous satin maxi dress can be dressed down with a hoodie and sneakers or dressed up with heels and glitzy jewelry. We are shook that it's only $38.
Clean Cropped Denim
These '70s-style wide-leg pants go great with a plain white tee and cool slides. Or play with the monochromatic trend and go for an all-red look. Either way, this style from Madewell is a total steal.
Square-Neck Textured Swim
My jaw seriously dropped when I saw this swimsuit at this price. The sweet little number checks off all of this season's trend boxes. Expect me to double its use as a daytime bodysuit (that can secretly take a dip). It's amazing on so many levels.
Fashion Flip-Flops
These are basically the flip-flop version of moon boots. They have this magic cushion that you won't ever want to part from.
Next, check out the coolest $100 items our editors have seen this month.
