The introvert within me is screaming. I've been going out more than ever, and it's actually been fun. It's not unusual for my weekend plans to fizzle out into ordering ramen and watching whatever my Netflix suggests, but this time, I'm not the flaky friend. Accordingly, I need my wardrobe to match. It feels like a waste to commit to expensive trendy pieces (because who knows how long this phase will last), so affordable, trend-forward basics seem to be the most obvious answer. I can incorporate them into my weekly work attire, but when Saturday night calls for a cute outfit suitable enough for drinks, a trendy basic can be gussied up a bit for extra flair.
H&M always delivers on the affordable-trend front, so naturally, it was the first place I landed during my search. And the retailer was stocked with everything I was looking for, from croc-embossed knee boots to tweed jackets that elicit French girl–style fantasies. Ahead, see the most promising new arrivals making their way into my closet.
It really is the season of the textured jacket.
Quite honestly, I'll take the entire outfit. If you're not into the Barbiecore look, this jacket is also available in very office-friendly shades of black and cream.
Yes, I'm still riding with cargo pants.
My current search for solid going-out clothes involves sophisticated-looking jeans. I love how these are high waisted, slightly narrow on the leg, and really long.
These types of shirts come in clutch when the objective is low-key chic. I'd jazz this up with big statement jewelry or a dazzling tennis necklace and jeans.
One of my favorite looks includes a cool trench coat, striking heels, tailored jeans, and eye-catching earrings.
H&M has really been killing it with the outerwear lately.
I know it's tweed-jacket overload at this point, but this one is too good.
One thing H&M does particularly well? It's trousers.
Should you need your cargo pants wider than wide.
Despite fashion's fascination with straight-leg denim right now, it's hard to ignore just how cool wide-leg jeans are.
Sometimes, all you need for a night out is a cool sweater.
I predict these won't stay in stock for even a week.
I definitely don't mind paying $9 for fun, big hoops.
Leather jackets are on everyone's lips (and in their closets), and I like the unexpected addition of a dainty collar and jumbo pockets here. It's like a hybrid between a utility and bomber jacket.
This color is just stunning.
I've said it before, but maxi skirts really are one of my wardrobe's star players.
Here's an opportunity to try out the heart-choker trend.
When it comes to looking chic my motto is "Throw a blazer on it."
It's conventional to go for a black puffer, but if you try out this shade of green, you'll be surprised by how versatile it is.
Ballet flats are definitely more of a classic, but their big moment this season has me leaning more into the silhouette now than ever.
Heeled knee boots belong in the going-out-outfit starter pack.
Extra-thick stripes are a cool twist.
Far from your average cardigan.
Contrast stitching always adds a French-girl flair.
I'll be going to NYC soon, so a dress that covers me from head to toe will be a necessity for the cold.
The boxiness feels modern.
Nothing says you've arrived like a pink blazer.
My brain is an endless pit of denim styles—can you tell?
Up next: Nordstrom Dropped a Sale, and I Scanned Through the Whole Thing—These Buys Are It