Trust Me: This Under-$150 Outfit Formula Saves My Wardrobe Every Time

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(Image credit: @emmaleger)

All great fashion people have a secret outfit formula that they'll go back to over and over. For stylish women who lead incredibly busy lives, having a uniform can be a lifesaver in the morning. Just take a look at legendary figures such as Miuccia Prada with her pleated midi skirts or Fran Lebowitz, who championed men's tailoring long before it was a beloved fashion choice. Consistency is key, and nothing is better than having a formula to a look that you can replicate over and over. 

Thankfully, it's easier than ever to look good on a budget. With end-of-year sales in full swing, it's the perfect time to stock up on timeless basics that, when put together, result in a chic outfit you don't even have to think twice about. Keep scrolling to discover these no-miss finds—most of them well under $100. 

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Parisian Stripes and Straight Denim
(Image credit: @annelauremais)

An oldie but a goodie. We've written about effortlessly chic visuals for years, and for good reason: With a few pieces, anyone can throw together a pretty solid Parisian-approved look. Neutral tops and sweaters are best served with a side of oversize denim, accentuating a boxier, relaxed fit. 

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Miniskirts + Thigh-High Boots
(Image credit: @ada_oguntodu )

There's something quintessentially chic about miniskirts and tall boots. Fashion discourse surrounding the adoption of miniskirts into winter wardrobe began this year (Who can forget the freezing hoards of people in Paris wearing micro minis at Miu Miu's F/W 22 show?), and frankly, it's here to stay. The options are endless.

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Oversize Knits + Midi Skirts
(Image credit: @hedvigso)

Double the sweaters, double the fun. A cozy, oversize turtleneck naturally isn't complete without another sweater slung around the shoulders. While the verdict is still out on whether or not it adds an extra layer of warmth for chillier days, the relaxed fit of a midi skirt adds another level of comfy chic. Plus, it's airport approved.

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Leggings + Puffer Jackets
(Image credit: @nitsanraiter)

It's officially puffer season. Thankfully, the marshmallow-esque garment has made a massive resurgence over the last few years, turning what was once a begrudgingly accepted cold-weather staple into a style statement. Combine with a pair of leggings (another comeback favorite) and Ugg boots, and you're set for the next few months. 

Next, even more affordable outfit ideas to replicate ASAP.

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Assistant Shopping Editor
Ana Escalante is an award-winning journalist and Gen Z editor whose work ranges from dissecting size inclusivity at fashion week to discussing how American Girl Doll meme accounts are the the answer to society's collective spiral. She's covered it all: Queen Elizabeth II's corgis, Roe v. Wade frontline protests, and the emergence of jorts (or jean shorts for the uninitated). At Who What Wear, Ana is responsible for delivering smart, insightful, personality-driven shopping guides and trend features for a digital-first generation.Before joining Who What Wear, Ana was Glamour magazine's editorial assistant, where she focused on daily news and special packages, including leading the brand's 2022 Met Gala coverage. For more than half a decade, she has covered style, beauty, and digital culture for publications such as Paper magazine, Harper's Bazaar, Vogue Japan, and Allure, among others. Ana has been called a rising star in media by publications such as Nylon and Teen Vogue. (Her mother, meanwhile, calls her "the coolest person" she knows.)