Since I was young, my favorite hobby has been finding the best affordable clothing. Family members can recall a time when I'd force them to take me to thrift stores and teen stores like Limited Too (oh, memories) after school to scour the racks for the perfect deal. In my mind, nothing compares to the thrill of unearthing a discounted designer bag, scooping up a special piece at a sample sale, or finding an affordable fall fashion item.
Of course, shopping takes patience, something not everyone has. It takes a lot of energy to hunt for expensive-looking pieces, time to curate a wardrobe, and effort to keep up with trends. On top of that, shopping for a new season can be overwhelming, especially when rolling heat waves make the mere idea of fall seem far off. All this is to say I understand why shopping might not be everyone's cup of tea.
Luckily for the anti-shoppers, fashion editors (like me) live to share their recommendations. In the vein of making the transition into fall less stressful, I've scoured the new-arrival sections of J.Crew, Nordstrom, H&M, Ssense, Reformation, Mango, Shopbop, Aritzia, and more. Ahead, you'll find 50 affordable fall fashion finds, all under under $250.
Fair warning: These elegant items may cause a lack of sleep and overwhelming feelings because they're so good. Proceed with caution.
You'd never guess this crescent-shaped vegan-leather bag isn't designer.
Okay, this knit dress did not need to be this good.
The satin material on these mules is sublime.
This vegan-leather blazer is everything.
J.Crew's knits are not only super soft, but this one also comes in eight other colorways.
This belt will make any ensemble look more polished.
Trust me when I say a good pair of jeans is always worth every penny.
Oh, you fancy, huh? Well, you will be once you add these loafers to your closet.
Colder weather is coming.
The built-in scarf on this knitted tank makes it look way more expensive than its price tag.
Trousers are perfect for every season.
Snake-print slingback heels will always scream wealth to me.
News flash: Unique jewelry does not have to cost a fortune.
The best thing about leather dresses? No matter where you bought it from, it always looks luxurious.
Who doesn't love a sleek shoulder bag?
Tailored blazers can be pricier, but this one is proving that precedent wrong.
A good pair of capris can add a "cool factor" to any outfit.
Kitten heels from luxury designers have got competition.
A good trench coat will change your life.
A lightweight cardigan is ideal for early fall temperatures.
Everything about this shoulder bag is perfect for fall—from the suede material to the retro silhouette.
Transition these denim shorts into the fall by styling them with a light cardigan.
Oh, these are chic.
Cool girls, apply here.
This bag exudes '90s energy.
The draping on this dress makes it look designer.
It's never too early to invest in a pair of knee-high boots.
The easiest way to embody "rich auntie" while walking your purse puppy is by slipping into a cashmere knit.
White jeans will always feel luxurious.
Pony or no pony, these riding boots deserve a place in your wardrobe.
I'm shaking over these shades.
Turtlenecks will always exude rich energy.
Pinstripes are so posh.
The key to giving any look that "drip?" A good pair of sneakers.
Who wouldn't want to secure this bag?
For the workin' girls.
Tweed jackets scream opulence.
White button-downs will always look luxe.
Leather trousers make every ensemble feel more expensive.
These slingbacks are so Saint Laurent coded.
No, it's not Chanel, but it's nearly as chic.
Your search for the perfect tank top is over. Thank me later.
I've been obsessed with pencil skirts, so this affordable version is at the top of my wish list.
Polo shirts invented preppy.
Is it just me, or do these trousers look expensive?
Another great pair of loafers for the fall.
These are the type of earrings you'd want to put on just to go to the bodega.
A unique T-shirt that won't break the bank.
Leather skirts are a must-have for any wardrobe.
It doesn't get more elegant than this Staud shoulder bag.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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