These days, it feels impossible to leave the house without dropping $100 (on what, exactly? I couldn’t tell you). And that’s before a quick stop at the mall, which is basically a guaranteed wallet drain. While I know the price creep has been gradual, the reality of spending as much on a single top as I used to on an entire outfit still hits hard.
As much as I wish I could shop like it’s 2015, that’s just not realistic. Luckily, I’ve honed my superpower: creating luxe-for-less looks.
I’ve been practicing this craft for years—whether it was hunting down Limited Too treasures on eBay, digging through Forever 21 sale racks, or braving hours-long sample sale lines (shoutout to the legendary Vera Bradley sale of 2007). Along the way, I mastered how to pull together a designer-level wardrobe on a budget.
Of course, I believe in the occasional investment piece (a leather jacket will always be worth it). But more often than not, there are stylish, affordable alternatives hiding in plain sight. The trick is knowing where to look—and having the creativity to style them like they came straight off the runway.
So with fall fashion in full swing, I scoured the internet for the best pieces that feel expensive but ring in under $100. From versatile layers to statement shoes, these are the budget-friendly finds I’m eyeing right now.
Tops & Sweaters
Affordable knits, polished blouses, and layering staples that will carry you straight through sweater season.
Bottoms
Trousers, jeans, and skirts that prove you don’t have to sacrifice tailoring or trendiness to stick to a budget.
Dresses
One-and-done outfits in seasonal prints and textures—perfect for workdays, weekends, and everything in between.
Outerwear
The hero of any fall wardrobe. These under-$100 jackets will convince everyone you spent triple the price.
Shoes (Sponsored Inclusion: DSW)
From chic boots to statement sneakers, DSW’s fall lineup delivers all the on-trend styles without blowing your budget.
Accessories
Because the right belt, scarf, or bag can completely transform an outfit—no splurge required.
