Things I like: words like "cashmere," "made in Italy," "handcrafted by artisans," "grown on an organic farm," "imported," "real silk," and "solid gold"; finding free stuff on the counter in the break room; seeing that the UPS guy has come (and that my packages have been delivered); when someone updates the Cute Animal News channel on Slack; and stealing story-framing devices from Zach Lowe, apparently. (Fellow basketball fans, back me up here.)
Things I don't like: subsisting on a diet of ramen (not the fancy vegan kind from Grand Central Market) all the way up until payday, or trying to explain to my live-in partner why my half of the rent might be coming "fashionably late," which is code for "don't look in my closet; you definitely won't like all the boxes and bags you'll find in there." (Or, alternatively, "I have no idea who stole my credit card and purchased Bruce Springsteen's entire catalog on vinyl." IT COULD HAVE BEEN ANYONE.)
Which is why I (try to) rely on less pricey updates to my wardrobe. A selectively made $25 pick here or there can keep things fresh (and make the rare investment buy feel a bit more special), and I've got proof. Keep reading to see and shop 25 under-$25 fashion picks you'll never regret.
Ganni
Classon Wool Socks
To match my tiny banana tattoo.
Madewell
Aanisa Striped Ribbed Cotton-Blend Top
Urban Outfitters
Lily Pendant Coin Necklace
In case you don't have the funds for one of the many $200+ options.
Rebecca Minkoff
Baby Tubular Hoop Earrings
Tiny but bold.
Urban Outfitters
Bethany Beaded Handle Bag
Beaded bags are still big news (but don't have to take up a big chunk of your budget).
Madewell
Velvet Ankle Socks
I'll be wearing these all winter staycation long.
Free People
Baby Crew-Neck Tee
Your new favorite (affordable!) plain black tee awaits.
Adidas Originals
Originals Trefoil Festival Crossbody Bag
A clean, classic belt bag with plenty of room.
Emilio Cavallini
Matte Solid Tights
Take a break from plain black tights this winter.
ASOS Design
Crystal Hair Clips
Festive sparkle incoming.
H&M
Long-Sleeved Mesh Top
Speaking of which…
Madewell
Star Sparkle Signet Ring
I've had this on my wish list forever.
Ganni
Charron Scrunchie
The most affordable (and fun) way to get into Ganni.
H&M
Ruffle-Trimmed Ribbed Top
Love a square neckline (especially when ruffles are involved).
Urban Outfitters
Slim Telephone Cord Hair Tie Set
Pastels? I'm in.
Topshop
Anastasia Ballet Pumps
Patent lends a pricier air to these ballet flats, don't you think?
ASOS Design
Small Pointy Cat Eye Sunglasses
Because lilac isn't going anywhere.
Boohoo
Kimono-Sleeve Jumpsuit
A steal of a jumpsuit if I've ever seen one.
Urban Outfitters
Claudia Faux Snakeskin Sandal
Note to self: Save till spring. (Also, the pink colorway is quite nice.)