Fashion has a wonderful way of uplifting our spirits and creating some normalcy during these uncertain times. We’re especially excited to revel in some of 2020’s coolest trends—from puff sleeves to polka dots, fringe to chain details, not to mention the plethora of at-home trends we’ve seen pop up throughout quarantine. So which 2020 trends are not only easy on the wallet but also easy enough to wear through the end of the year and beyond? I tapped my fellow editors and asked them to share the affordable trends they’re investing in this year that will see them through the months ahead. From knit bras to billowy dresses, scroll below to see what we're buying in the hopes that it will inspire and uplift your spirits too.
"I bought these jeans at the beginning of 2020, and I'm confident that they will become my most-worn pair (and most-worn trend) by the year's end. I love that the wide-leg, ultra-high-rise fit feels so fresh and current for right now and, not to mention it adds a dose of polish to any outfit."
"Smocking! I'm obsessed with delicate smocked dresses and tops right now and have been impressed to see that there are some beautiful options that are pretty affordable, like this green minidress that I plan on adding to my closet for summer."
"Chunky, dome-shaped gold rings are the fun, cheap jewelry trend I'm buying right now. They make even my most casual outfits feel cooler."
"Since it's getting hot, knit sweatshorts are replacing my sweatpants for the time being. I'm following the lead of the Reformation model and wearing them with white button-downs."
"Orange—specifically tangerine orange—is a color we've seen on the rise since earlier this year, and I'm very on board. While I usually stick to neutrals, I've been embracing warm pops of color."
"Knit bras are the cozy trend I've been wearing on repeat at home recently. I also love the idea of pairing one with leather trousers and a trench coat when I leave the house."
"I am still loving the longer-shorts trend, and these are bound to be the most versatile pair in my closet."
"I love a fine-knit polo top right now. They are easy to layer and look great with almost all tailored separates, which I am very much into right now."
"Unitards have caught my attention in a major way. I love how Emily Ratajkowski wears them, and with comfy clothing being top of mind right now, it feels like a smart move. With all the sweatpants and oversize tees I've been wearing, something a bit more alluring will be a welcome change."
"The trend of super-billowy oversize dresses is one that works for me well now—hello, house dress!—and will continue to serve me through the year. I think the preference for comfort is something that will stick even after life resumes some normalcy. This affordable option from our Who What Wear line has a minidress hemline, which balances out the oversize shape."
"Vintage-inspired collared blouses (that are lace-trimmed or frilly) had a huge moment on the spring and fall 2020 runways and have been all over our feeds ever since. I’ll be wearing this lightweight lace collar top through summer with my denim shorts and into fall and winter under a crew-neck sweater or cardigan. Bonus: It has the prettiest puff sleeves, another trend I’m leaning into heavily this year.”
"I'm really into ribbed knit sets right now. They make affordable loungewear look way more expensive. This H&M duo looks super luxe and will serve me year-round."
"I love that white shirting is not only trending at the moment but will remain a classic for, well, ever. I'm investing in a slouchier cut for a modern feel to wear with jeans and even joggers."
"I plan on fully embracing the sporty-sandal trend this year—especially teamed with of-the-moment white crew socks."
"I don't think it gets more affordable (or cooler) than the Nike sock trend that's dominating Instagram, and I want in."
"I'm very intrigued by the way fashion girls are styling boxer shorts right now. So much so that I'm willing to try the trend myself, likely failing a few times until I get the look right."
"I can't say no to the crochet trend. I'm all about easy, breezy pieces right now, and this pretty dress fits the bill because it's so comfortable to wear around the house yet is super chic."
"This top hits on two of my favorite trends that have proven to have major staying power: square necklines and puff sleeves. I absolutely love white tops for summer, and this Mango one is a great price."
Up next, the eight coolest under-$100 tops to wear with your favorite leggings.
