I come from a family of educators, so I know how teachers feel about back-to-school shopping—it's fitting-room chaos while they try to find clothing that is both trendy and budget-friendly. Every year, my sister ropes me into going shopping with her, and she has a precise list that each purchase must check off. Her rubric includes affordability, practicality, appropriateness, and, of course, cuteness.
Taking into account her priorities and my fashion sense, I've put together a list of 31 chic, under-$100 Nordstrom items, from cozy sweaters and sleek trousers to simple dresses and comfy ballet flats, that are guaranteed to make getting dressed this season effortless. Shop the stylish back-to-school finds below.
Shop the Back-to-School Styles
MANGO
Raglan Sleeve Cotton Blend Sweater
Striped sweaters are selling out everywhere. Get this one while it's in stock!
Nordstrom
Pleated Midi Skirt
Preppy chic.
Madewell
The Greta Ballet Flat
I spot these everywhere!
Nordstrom
Pima Cotton Slub Crewneck T-Shirt
Can't go wrong with a classic crewneck.
Levi's
Ribcage High Waist Straight Leg Jeans
Perfect for casual Fridays.
MANGO
Sleeveless Turtleneck Sweater
Cool.
Open Edit
The Icon Trousers
An educator must-have that's only $50.
Steve Madden
Pipa Ballet Flat
These are the chic flats our editors can't get enough of. They come in so many colors.
MANGO
Polka Dot Shirtdress
Polka dots are trending.
Vince Camuto
Faux Suede A-Line Skirt
Beautiful.
Reformation
Dusk Stretch Knit Top
Elevated basics are always in.
adidas
Samba OG Sneaker
Every teacher needs a good pair of sneakers.
MANGO
Lula Belted Sleeveless Maxi Dress
Easy to wear.
Madewell
Cotton Blend Ruffle Top
So cute.
DAZE
Pleaser High Waist Raw Hem Crop Jeans
Under-$100 beauties.
MIA
Rayza Woven Mary Jane Flat
Mesh flats aren't going anywhere if I have anything to say about it.
All in Favor
Contrast Collar Herringbone Bomber Jacket
Fall is coming around the corner.
ZOE AND CLAIRE
Stripe Belted Detail Cotton Shirtdress
The cinched waist is so in RN.
MANGO
Short Sleeve Sweater
Chic. Chic. Chic.
Sanctuary
Must-Have Cardigan
I give this an 11/10.
Modenaire
Sleeveless Crewneck Midi Dress With Gathered Waist and Pockets
Throw on and go.
MANGO
Cotton Button-Up Shirt
Basic. Basic. Basic.
HIDDEN JEANS
High Waist Comfort Flare Jeans
Flawless.
New Balance
327 Sneaker
Our editors have been raving about these.
Nordstrom
Tiered Cotton Poplin Maxi Skirt
The perfect black poplin skirt.
Open Edit
Cozy Cardigan
Cozy.
NYDJ
Pull-On Flare Leg Ponte Knit Trousers
Simple.
Mila Mae
Pleated Cotton Midi Dress
Add a sweater as the weather gets cooler.
Madewell
Crewneck Cutaway Drapey Twill Vest
With a pair of high-waisted trousers, this is so cute!