My Friend Gave Me a $550 Budget to Update Her Spring Wardrobe—Here's What I Ordered

As the fashion-savvy person in my closest friend group, I am constantly fielding queries from them on what to buy and where to shop, especially at the beginning of a new season. As predicted, this spring was no different. As soon as the weather even slightly warmed up, I got a text from a friend asking if I wouldn't mind being her personal shopper for the season.
This time around, she gave me a fun budget of $550 to find her key pieces for spring that could be easily incorporated into any closet. In the end, I narrowed it down to eight chic finds that would do the trick. These range from a standout woven bag to effortless linen pants and cool suede sneakers.
Ahead, shop my top picks for each category, plus some extras I have my eye on that are perfect for updating your spring wardrobe.
1. Woven Leather Bag
My Pick
I own this Madewell tote and find myself wearing it with just about every one of my looks. It comes in a variety of colors—I can't help but want every last one.
More Woven Bags
2. Drawstring Linen Pants
My Pick
Fashion editors swear by linen pants from Zara. This pair is $50 and can be styled with a variety of tops. White is my go-to, but beige and black are also favorites.
More Linen Pants
3. Suede Sneakers
My Pick
Adidas Tokyo sneakers and many other suede options are having a major moment. Go neutral like the pair above or opt for a bold color to add a fun touch to any look.
More Suede Sneakers
4. Boatneck Top
My Pick
This boatneck top is easy, affordable, and incredibly chic. The neckline style instantly elevates outfits with very little effort regardless of the sleeve length.
More Boatneck Tops
5. Full White Skirt
My Pick
The full-white-skirt trend is still going strong in 2025. This season, fashion people are pairing the style with woven flats, jelly sandals, and more.
More Full White Skirts
6. Woven Shoes
My Pick
Yes, mesh shoes are still having a moment, but woven options are taking over the scene this spring. Whether flats or heels, there is something for every personal style.
More Woven Shoes
7. Relaxed Jeans
My Pick
Skinny and straight-leg jeans are still in the mix, but relaxed jeans feel particularly cool right now. They are super easy to dress up or down as well.
More Relaxed Jeans
8. Black Leather Belt
My Pick
Madewell belts are always a good idea. There are so many black options that range from classic to trendy. The one above is a nice mix between the two.
More Black Belts

Jennifer Camp Forbes is a senior shopping editor at Who What Wear, where she has worked in a variety of capacities including creative director and various editor roles. She’s a well-known shopping expert that’s sought out for advice and insight on the latest trends, outfit ideas, and fashion picks thanks to her thoughtful shopping roundups. Jennifer's lifelong interest in fashion led her to intern at Harper’s Bazaar as an undergraduate. Later, while working towards her masters degree in psychological counseling at Columbia University, she founded two digital fashion publications: Le Fashion and Olsens Anonymous. The popularity of both sites grew and after graduation she decided put her plans to become a therapist aside to pursue a career in fashion.
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