Do you hear that sound? It's the slow unthawing of snow across the country. One of the best things about this time of year is the overwhelming sense of possibilities. A shift in season can inspire us to finally make significant alterations in our lives—even if those transformations come in minor forms, like changing our hair or doing a closet clean-out. With warmer days on the horizon and birds chirping in the background, many might feel inspired to search for new sandals, adopt recent trends, and get creative with their everyday outfits. But we'd be remiss if we didn't acknowledge that the chunk of cash needed to make all these changes might not be there.
A tight budget doesn't mean we have to sacrifice our style, or at least, that's what we're trying to prove. A middle ground exists between adhering to a budget and finding expensive-looking spring items. Don't believe us? To prove that point, we scoured the new-arrivals sections of Nordstrom, H&M, Aritzia, COS, Mango, and Zara in search of the best affordable buys for spring. Ahead, you'll find 40 expensive-looking spring pieces, all under $250. Considering our love for affordable quiet luxury brands, each item included takes into account spring trends, quality, and longevity to ensure that you can switch up your wardrobe without spending a fortune. Without further ado, let's shop.
The nipped-in waist makes this blazer look designer.
Sublime. No notes.
With barrel-leg jeans still trending, you surely won't regret investing in this pair for spring.
Black slingback heels will always be the epitome of elegance to us.
Insider tip: When you can't splurge on a pair of designer sunglasses, look for a pair with a classic shape.
Trench coats are the staple that keeps on giving, no matter the season.
Give your simple black tank top a small upgrade by opting for one made from super-soft cashmere.
Trust us—everyone will think this chunky belt is designer.
Chic, chic, chic.
Consider this your sign that it's never too late to buy into the trends you thought you might have missed out on, such as mesh ballet flats.
Never underestimate hoop earrings' ability to elevate any ensemble.
Is it just us, or are the buttons on this cardigan so Schiaparelli coded?
Quick, it's selling out fast!
You may not have a trip to Positano planned, but these posh sandals will make you look like you just got off a private plane.
If you've spent months thinking about buying a bag from The Row, let this be your sign that you can hold off on splurging for now.
The sweetheart neckline? The drop waist? The crisp color? Ten out of 10.
There's something about a square toe that can make even affordable shoes look more expensive.
Oh. My. God.
Black trousers are seasonless, period!
There's nothing we love more than two-tone strappy sandals.
Phoebe Philo, who?
Chocolate-brown trousers? Don't mind if we do.
Adopting the suede handbag trend doesn't have to be expensive.
These dark-brown suede loafers will stand the test of time.
Meet the perfect dress for a balmy spring day.
Incorporating chunky cuff bracelets into your closet is a cost-effective way to look chicer every day.
Calling all Carven fans: This budget-friendly blouse was made for you.
You'll wear this slip skirt throughout the spring.
Light layers are essential to elegant spring dressing.
Jil Sander vibe, budget-friendly price.
Butter yellow will always be the bougiest color in our books.
Bermuda shorts are the backbone of every sophisticated spring capsule.
Fair warning: These suede sneakers may cause compliments.
Eighties excess embodied in a pair of earrings.
Reformation does it again.
Bowler bags are so back, baby!
A butter-yellow button-down? Yum.
Now, here's a date-night top that can convince anyone to re-download their dating apps this spring.
You can dress these up or down based on your mood.
Carrie Bradshaw could have benefited from buying more budget-friendly mules. Thankfully, you know better.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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