As an editor, I spend each day exploring new-in styles and restocked best sellers whilst keeping an eye out for the latest pieces inspired by runway trends to hit the shops. I scan through hundreds of items each week just to find those special gems that are truly worthy of adding to your wardrobe. In doing so, I've found myself making my own Saved folder of anti-trend items that I plan to come back to, either to replace a piece of mine when it finally gives in or to snap up when payday arrives. My list is a mix of high-end and high-street favourites, but with finances as pressured as they are for many of us right now, it feels important to collate the best affordable options to share with you, our dear readers.
Whilst I advocate investing a little more in timeless pieces that can be worn on repeat, not everyone has the means to do so, and I believe that shouldn't stop anyone from building their very own hard-working capsule wardrobe. Luckily for us, there are so many brilliant brands around, from high-street stores to independent labels, that lead the way in stellar design at much more affordable price points. It's important to note that "affordable" can mean different things for different people, so this is a mix of clever high-street steals as well as smart mid-range pieces that are far more purse-friendly than their designer counterparts.
So, welcome to the affordable anti-trend edit; a home for classic wardrobe additions that will truly earn their keep. You’ll find beloved best sellers that are continually restocked thanks to their timeless nature, fashion-insider favourites that make putting together polished looks that much easier and new-in styles that have an enduring aesthetic that won’t feel out of place when the new season rolls around. Looking for your first trench coat? I've got you. Did the strap on your eight-year-old work bag finally give out? Scroll for a replacement I recommend. Basically, if it’s set to endure passing trends, you’ll find it below.
Read on to explore the affordable anti-trend items I've spotted recently.
SHOP AFFORDABLE ANTI-TREND ITEMS:
H&M knows all about great denim, and this pair come in a range of washes.
I'd wear this with shorts, skirts, linen trousers and plenty more.
So many outfits call for a classic white tee, and I can vouch for how high-quality this one is.
The elegant silhouette and classic design means this tote rivals bags of 3 times its price tag.
Equal parts comfy and chic.
We've already started to think about how many ways there are to wear this dress.
A simple staple that will act as the foundation of so many spring looks.
Any easy piece to dress up or down.
Make space in your forever wardrobe for this sleek leather tote.
A pair of airy trousers you'll lean on every summer.
Trench coats have spent decades proving themselves to be eternally chic.
A neutral slip skirt is one of the most verastile pieces in my wardrobe.
Arket's best-selling blazer is reissued each year thanks to its forever appeal.
COS' crossbody bag has a cult following of its own.
Nowadays, a denim maxi skirt is a wardrobe hero.
A white button-down comes in handy through all seasons.
When it comes to wide-leg, tailored trousers, so many of our editors back this COS pair.
Some spend hundreds to find jeans as perfectly cut as these.
The perfect top to wear with jeans or trousers on your next evening out.
An elegant belt is an easy way to pull a look together.
There's always space for an elegant evening top in my arsenal.
Take any look to new heights with these sleek mules.
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I Just Got Back From Europe, and Now, I Want to Shop These Trends From H&M, Nordstrom, and J.CrewThink effortless elegance.
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These Under-$100 Winter Buys From Nordstrom Are a Pure Hit of Fashion DopamineThese will have your friends doing a double take.
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Elsa Hosk's Already Wearing 2025's First Viral Sneaker TrendFor $80? Say less.
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I Own $400 Leggings, But This Under-$40 Pair Looks and Feels More ExpensiveNo, I'm not lying.
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I Already Failed My 2025 No-Buy—36 Under-$100 H&M Finds That Look Triple the PriceMiu Miu, Khaite, and Prada are all on the menu.
