It’s currently 85ºF in Los Angeles (yep, I’m wearing shorts, people!), and while it’s unusually hot for April, the warm temps are undoubtedly getting my mind into summer mode. That goes for my wardrobe, too. There are so many chic and fun pieces on the market right now that are getting me excited for the warm-weather season and will undoubtedly give my closet the fresh update it's craving. But if you’re like me and don’t want to spend a small fortune on a new-season wardrobe (I do have a European vacation coming up, after all), then you’re in luck because I’ve scoured all our favorite retailers to bring you only the best, of-the-moment pieces that clock in under $50. From trendy accessories to stylish staples and sleek swimsuits, here’s my current list of cool, affordable finds that will keep you looking chic this summer—and thankfully don’t cost a gajillion dollars.
Zara
Stretch Linen Blend Dress
Tell me this doesn't look triple its price.
H&M
Slides
Cushy and cool slides you'll be wearing all summer.
Mango
Knitted Top With Ruffle Detail
Delicate halter-string silhouettes are a summer must.
Mango
Croc-Effect Baguette Bag
Say yes to this season's biggest color trend.
Zara
Linen Wrap Skirt
Linen season has arrived.
Superdown
Superdown Angelina Cami Top in Poppy
I love this eye-catching hue. (The back is really pretty too).
& Other Stories
Chunky Layered Open Hoop Earrings
Chunky hoops will amp up your summer basics.
H&M
Wide-Cut Linen-Blend Shorts
There's something about white linen shorts that always looks so elegant.
Urban Outfitters
Uo Piper Keyhole Cropped Sweater
Take on the cutout trend.
Zara
Ruched Satin Effect Skirt
The perfect day-to-night skirt.
Charles & Keith
Chalk Toe Loop Heeled Sandals
Versatile and chic.
Mango
Stripes Raffia Hat
A joyful summer hat.
Zara
Draped Swimsuit
The spaghetti straps, the draping, the color—all so stunning.
Shashi
Classic Coin Belt in Gold
Chain belts look so chic over everything from dresses to swimsuits.
Zara
Floral Jacquard Knit Top
Such a pretty knit.
& Other Stories
Organic Pearl Bead Necklace
Wear this statement pearl necklace alone or combined with other gold or bead chains.
Bp.
Pointelle Tie Front Cardigan
The perfect summer cardigan.
H&M
Ribbed Tank Top
Because you can never have too many.
Urban Outfitters
Patrizia Plastic Aviator Sunglasses
Retro-cool.
H&M
90s Cutoff High Waist Shorts
Guaranteed you'll be reaching for these on repeat.
H&M
Sneakers
I can't believe they're $35 either.
Zara
Crochet Woven Shoulder Bag
Tote your summer essentials in style.
Zara
Multi-Colored Beaded Necklace
Playful, fun, and ready for summer.
Zara
Straight Cut Printed Pants
Swap your jeans for a pair of breezy printed pants.
H&M
Modal-Blend Dress
Easy and effortless.
Charles & Keith
Black Toe Loop Strappy Flat Sandals
How comfy do these look?
Urban Outfitters
Piper Printed Wide Brim Bucket Hat
Hat game strong.
Zara
Rustic Beaded Dress
Easy to dress up or down.
Treasure & Bond
Wide Brim Rancher Hat
The perfect finishing touch to any summer outfit.
H&M
Mesh Skirt
Embrace vibrant psychedelic prints this summer.
& Other Stories
Collared Bodysuit
So easy to wear with everything from midi skirts to high-waisted jeans.
Judith Jones is the senior fashion market editor at Who What Wear who specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.