I’m obsessed with clothes and accessories shopping, as you might guess from my work as a fashion editor. But I’m very careful not to overuse so that I can pay my bills and continue living in expensive cities like New York. To manage everything, I set a monthly fashion budget for myself. I usually start at $275, but adjust accordingly depending on when and where I spend or save elsewhere.
I know what you’re probably thinking –The recent $275 doesn’t seem to be that much– And you’re right. Consumer prices are increasing According to Bankrate, 24% since 2020. If I spent everything on Zara, I could get around 3, and if I shopped on Net-A-Porter, I could only buy one item. I’ve been building a strong capsule wardrobe for a year now, so I’m thoughtful about what to add to my rotation, and I’m already in the foundation so I don’t have to buy that much. I usually refresh the basics, buy new ones for special occasions, or balance my minimalist wardrobe and add fun accessories.
This month I curated the edit to get a glimpse of the $275 fashion items I added to my bookmarks and cart. Without further ado, continue scrolling and shop for 34 expensive look discoveries.
Zara
Contrast trim midi dress
If you hadn’t seen this dress on Zara’s website, you would have thought it was from Posse or faithful.
These flip-flops never get old.
Zara
Textured knit sweater
Zara’s latest collection is 10/10. This textured sweater is one of my favorite pieces as it can be casually styled with elastic waist linen shorts and bikini, or dressed up with silk pants and a diamond tennis bracelet.
Open Edit
Curator’s pants
Finally, Nordstrom’s bestselling pants are back in stock.
Mega
Disc Enamel 14K Gold Bar Meal Necklace
Mega by celebrity stylists Dani Michelle There are pieces that change your looks from good to great all year round. I style this necklace in a black polka dot dress or a white tank top and jeans.
Massimo Dutti
High neck bomber puff jacket
This light jacket is also black, but the red jacket with contrasting black buttons is my favorite.
If your eyes are on a virus tank top, this halter tank is the next best thing.
You should not hesitate to add these to your cart. They are the mainstays of a true wardrobe.
Open Edit
Tori kitten heel sandals
mango
Midi skirt with frayed edges
When I see, I know of a refined skirt at an affordable price.
Jeffrey Campbell
Frame sandals
This pair has everything from elegant white patent leather to comfortable low heels and slide-on designs.
A capsule wardrobe is essential.
Bardot
Alila balloon pants
These are also available in blush pink and light blue.
Jenny Kane
Raffia Isla Bag
Is it just me or does anyone with a cool style own this bag?
Free person
Me and you are a midi slip
I took this to Newport, Rhode Island during my vacation and styled it this weekend with a black flip flop and a raffia tote bag. He also plans to wear it in autumn with knee-high boots and sweaters.
Come in autumn and wear the top dress with knee-high boots and a light jacket.
cos
Asymmetrical drape midi dress
This is a really great drape dress. We guarantee that it will be sold out by August 30th.
Jeffrey Campbell
My weaving flat
Zara
Wide sleeve striped poplin shirt
Simple style with bikini and shorts, pants and clutch.
mango
Lyocell wide leg pants
st. Agni
Organic cotton jersey top
High neck, waist and high quality fabric are the secret to designing elevated tank tops.
reform
Carolina Silk Skirt
Otora Eyewear
Hazel sunglasses
Kylie Jenner cannot stop wearing Otra Eyewear sunglasses.
& More Stories
Sleeveless satin midi dress
An easy way to look expensive on a budget is to wear a satin dress or trousers.
Eugenia Kim
Chelsea leather trim crostote
Featuring pops of colours and textures, the tote brings together the outfit.
& More Stories
Tapered shirt
I’m patting my back to find this top. Finding a flattering button-down shirt is hard to find.
reform
Maria Midrise Wide Leg Pleated Pants Pants
Fashion people have dumped their blue jeans for khaki pants this season. Maria Pants from Reform is one of their favourites.
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Suede Penny Loafers
Early birds catch worms when it comes to shopping for expensive autumn discoveries.
All methods
Gillian Short Set
This is the chicest set of shorts I’ve seen recently, and I can’t believe it’s under $100.
Ben amun
Riviera silver tone necklace
Massimo Dutti
Cowl neckline crepe top
Madewell
Tile white grooved midi skirt
Style this belt with the skirt above.
Chanruu
Recycled Market Bag Bronze Stripes
Fashion people like Sofia Richie Graing and Kendall Jenner wear market totes in the queue, which is very chic, but what I like about this Chan Luu version is that they are a little more expensive and fun with the sequin decorations. Plus, it costs a quarter of the price.