I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—7 Key Pieces I'm Prioritizing

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(Image credit: @fakerstrom)

As a fashion editor, I'll admit that I tend to spend way too much of my paycheck on clothes. It's part of my job to see, scour, and try the latest fashion items and It pieces daily, and when I see something I love, it's hard not to add it to my cart immediately. The temptation is real.

This year, however, I have given myself a fixed fashion budget. After all, I'm trying to save for a home, and I have several big family trips I want to plan this year. So I'm approaching my shopping with a more focused strategy while still allowing myself to have the thrill of buying something new and on-trend.

Below, I'm sharing seven key items—from elevated basics to trend-forward pieces—I'm prioritizing this year that feel of-the-moment, will scratch my shopping itch, and, most importantly, won't cost my entire paycheck. Keep scrolling if you're looking for some chic yet reasonably priced finds.

1. Relaxed Denim

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(Image credit: @nlmarilyn)

Denim is having a major moment, and it's all about relaxed silhouettes this spring. Think long and loose jeans, oversize jackets and shirts, and flowy skirts.

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2. Minimalistic Black Dress

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

There were over 4000 all-black looks on the spring 2023 runways and countless black dresses among them, from silky maxi silhouettes to '90s tube styles, proving an LBD is a solid investment for this season and the year ahead. Go for a minimalistic silhouette that can easily transition from day to night.

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3. Metallic Shoes

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(Image credit: Imaxtree)

If you're looking for one trendy item that feels very 2023, then metallic shoes should be high up on your shopping list. From boots to Mary Janes, the eye-catching trend will be everywhere by spring.

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4. Duster Coat

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Just scroll briefly on Instagram and you'll see that fashion people everywhere are embracing chic long coats. Whether you go for cotton or a soft wool fabric, the silhouette gives major The Row vibes. 

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5. Cargos

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

Cargo styles continue their domination—with plenty of cool new iterations, like skirts and jackets, cropping up this season. If the runways are anything to go by, the more pockets the better! 

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6. Crisp and Clean Tailoring

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(Image credit: Imaxtree)

For a timeless trend that you can wear year-round, lean into this season's pared-back elegance that dominated the 2023 runways at The Row, Peter Do, and Khaite, to name a few. The clean lines and crisp tailoring will elevate every outfit.

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7. Something Pretty

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(Image credit: Imaxtree)

From sheer fabrics to 3D florals, draping to subtle sparkle, add a romantic touch to your look this season and integrate pretty pieces into your ensemble. It's a trend we saw all over the runways that the fashion set can't get enough of.

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Up next, 10 Simple Wardrobe Additions That Will Make Your Outfits Look Expensive

Judith Jones
Senior Fashion Market Editor

Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.