My friend told me she has a $150 gift card to Nordstrom, but she hasn't spent it because she doesn't know what to get. She's an intentional shopper, meaning she likes to plan out her purchases and typically buys high-quality pieces she knows she can get a lot of good wear out of. She's also partial to the quiet luxury aesthetic, generally preferring pieces that are well-made and understated in design. While $150 is a considerable amount of money, given the fact that a pair of designer jeans typically goes for upwards of $200, finding items that fit her qualifications posed a bit of a challenge.
Nordstrom offers a wide array of brands and styles, so when shopping according to a specific budget and taste, it's really about doing the work to find your needle in a haystack. Since my friend likes expensive-looking pieces, I took it upon myself to scour Nordstrom's site to find the best selection of items that look like you paid a pretty penny, but in actuality, are all under $150 - in the name of friendship, of course. I even managed to find a couple of pieces from in-demand brands (I'm talking about you, rosette top from Reformation). However, there's also a $59 Nordstrom-brand knit that if you told me was Vince, I'd believe you (truthfully, I can't stop thinking about it).
If you're like my friend and like luxury pieces, but not luxury prices, check out my shopping list, below. I'd bet your closet (and bank account) will be very pleased with my finds.
The perfect sweater does exist.
I love this oxblood color for the colder months ahead.
Currently obsessed with thin strap Mary Janes like these.
A statement top that's also understated is a hard feat to accomplish, but this one from Reformation has managed the impossible.
You'll be surprised at how often you'll throw this knit skirt on.
It's all about double-breasted coats this season.
A high-waisted, wide-leg jean is a flattering silhouette on pretty much everyone.
I'd style this skirt exactly as shown here - so chic.
The Girl With the Pearl Choker.
Collegiate vibes.
A good, ripped jean that isn't vintage is hard to come by, and these are good!
Wear this out to dinner, a work event, an afternoon at the museum...the possibilities are endless, really.
Ganni is the best whenever you want to infuse a little flavor into your wardrobe.
There's nothing more elegant than a nude bag IMO.
It's giving Vampire's Wife, but for a quarter of the price.
For whenever you really start to miss the Eras tour.
Faux leather is either done really well, or...not so much. This ASOS jacket looks like the real thing.
When you want a piece that adds interest to a outfit, but don't want to go for a loud print, seek out a structural top instead.
Who says expensive-looking dressing has to be reserved for outside of the home?
These slingbacks are the gift that keep on giving. They come in an array of colors but silver is perfect for the holidays.
You can usually tell how much was spent on a button down, but this one looks like it cost much more than it does.
Zoot-suit fashion edition.
Cashmere-lined leather gloves for under $150? We're in.
I'm particularly drawn to the dropped shoulder seams on this cardigan.
Finally, a pair of classic joggers with a price I can get behind.
You'd never guess these platform boots are just $150 ($105 on sale!)
The chocolate-colored slip dress of my dreams.
These are typically $178, so get em' while you can!
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