Not to be dramatic, but I've probably spent thousands of hours staring at clothing. In that time, I've almost become jaded or immune to overreacting (call it an occupational hazard, if you must). It's not that I don't find things exhilarating anymore; I'm just harder to impress. While I'll always love the adrenaline rush of finding an expensive item for cheap or discovering new trends, the idea of a minimal capsule wardrobe moves me more these days.
Of course, even with this new-found ethos, I'd be lying if I didn't say I still occasionally get swept up in my feelings. Sometimes, I'll scroll through the new arrivals section at Nordstrom or Reformation and gasp at what I see. In those moments, I'm reminded of the unbridled joy that can come from finding great clothing for a great price point. And instead of gatekeeping the feeling, I've decided to try to share it with the world (or at least you, dear reader).
After scrolling through Nordstrom, Zara, Mango, Shopbop, and J.Crew, I found 46 summer items that look expensive but cost less than $150. Each piece, for me at least, fits the bill of what we want our clothing to be: affordable, wearable, and jaw-droppingly stylish.
I could have sworn these were designer earrings.
I dream of this top daily.
Wait until you see the slit in the back.
Never underestimate the power of a simple pair of ballet flats to elevate every ensemble.
It's not summer without an oversize straw bag.
I'm dreaming of wearing this in the South of France.
I love barely-there sandals.
Sublime.
Culottes have never been chicer.
Flip-flops have never been more elevated.
Here's a dress that will transition easily from work to happy hour.
Celine vibes for less.
This neckline? Swoon.
Cozy and chic? We love to see it.
This will hold you over until you can finally buy a Bottega Veneta bag.
The subtle drop waist on this dress is sending me.
A good pair of hoop earrings can make any summer look feel luxe.
As crisp as a new $100 bill.
You can also shop this cute little tank in white, navy, purple, and green.
You can dress these up or down.
Don't these look cozy?
It doesn't get more polished than pearls.
So elegant.
The Row aesthetic for less.
Dress this vest down by styling it with denim shorts or a slip skirt.
Slip skirts are an essential part of any summer wardrobe.
Chanel vibes.
This isn't a regular tank; it's a cool tank.
A well-fitted pair of jeans can make you feel like a million bucks.
Drip, drip.
You'll be the main character in these shades.
Meet your new favorite work blouse.
It's giving money.
If the back of this top doesn't make you gasp, nothing will.
Warning: you may stare at these buttery yellow trousers for too long.
Pretend you're yachting in Capri with these kicks.
The shape of this bag feels inspired by Prada's Cleo bag without being a full-fledged dupe.
Be the best dressed guest.
Wearable art.
Everyone will ask you where you got these wedges.
Next: 5 Jewelry Trends That Will Define Summer 2023 and 5 That Definitely Won't
