Alaïa's the Goal, But the Budget Is $150—31 Nordstrom and Zara Items That'll Do
From its viral fishnet flats to its celeb-packed spring 2024 show, which was casually set on a footbridge overlooking the Seine in Paris, there's no question that Alaïa is the brand on the tip of the fashion industry's tongue right now. Founded in Paris in the late '70s by Tunisian couturier Azzedine Alaïa, the house is most known for its clingy, form-fitting silhouettes—the designer was nicknamed the "King of Cling" during his heyday in the '80s and '90s—and laser-cut accessories, from corset belts to handbags.
Today, a new designer sits at the helm of the brand. But while creative director Peter Mulier's unique design style is certainly apparent, Alaïa's enormous legacy remains fully intact, with his signature cling and cuts continuing to act as symbols of the house. And with the return of '80s trends like cuff bracelets, nipped-in waists, sculptural shapes, and more, a perfect storm has been brewing in anticipation for Alaïa's biggest moment yet.
Unfortunately, as much as I'd like to line the racks of my closet with hooded body-cons and netted footwear, doing so isn't always realistic when you're shopping on a budget. That's why I rounded up 31 under-$150 pieces to help you get the Alaïa look for less from Nordstrom and Zara.
You can't see from this photo, but this $79 dress features a built-in tie belt that'll cinch your waist like the best Alaïa dresses always do.
I'm a sucker for a cuff bracelet, especially when it's paired with a simple black turtleneck.
Alaïa's Mary Janes are not only quite pricey, but they're also impossible to get your hands on. This $89 alternative, however, is fully in-stock and only $89.
If it's not black, it has to be a neutral autumnal shade like this one. Plus, I'm obsessed with halters at the moment.
The big shoulders on this jacket make it feel so much more elevated than a traditional trucker style.
The delicate tailoring at the waist makes this a must-buy poplin shirt.
If you can't currently drop $1480 on Alaïa's shockingly gorgeous La Cage heels, this $50 pair will get you a similar look.
Yes, those are rhinestones.
Shop the matching ZW High-Rise Jewel Boyfriend Jeans ($90).
As tight and edgy as Alaïa's pieces can be, there's always room in the collections for a poplin piece or two.
Alaïa's partially responsible for the growing halter-top trend.
The studs on these heeled sandals have me completely smitten.
I can't think of a single reason why we all shouldn't buy this belt. It'll only bring us happiness.
This top should be in your closet even if you're not trying to get the Alaïa look.
Eliza Huber is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who specializes in trend reporting, brand discovery, and the intersection of sports and fashion. She joined Who What Wear in 2021 from Refinery29, the job she took after graduating with a business degree from the University of Iowa. She's launched two columns, Let's Get a Room and Ways to Wear; profiled Dakota Fanning, Diane Kruger, Katie Holmes, Gracie Abrams, and Sabrina Carpenter; and reported on everything from the relationship between Formula One and fashion to the top runway trends each season. Eliza lives on the Upper West Side and spends her free time researching F1 fashion imagery for her side Instagram accounts @thepinnacleoffashion and @f1paddockfits, watching WNBA games, and scouring The RealReal for discounted Prada.
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