My Friend Wants a More Refined Wardrobe, so I Suggested These 32 Under-$200 Finds

My friend was texting me last week to tell me she's finally found a dress for the New Year's Eve wedding she's attending. She was lamenting how she has all these chic going-out looks she's accumulated for special occasions but hardly gets to wear. Meanwhile, her regular wardrobe is being denied that same investment, and as a result, she's feeling less than polished on your average day.
The moral of the story is that it's perhaps our more casual outfits that deserve the attention. Whether it's our Monday-to-Friday uniforms or our off-duty weekend wardrobes, these everyday looks are what really define our style. My stylish but busy friend is looking for rich-looking shopping picks that will help her feel more low-key elegant on an everyday basis. Given that she's dealing with all the usual end-of-year expenses, we're keeping these under $200. Hopefully, there's an affordable little something here for you as well.

Natalie Cantell is an NYC-based style director, creative consultant, and fashion editor, who regularly contributes from Paris. She was the executive director of Who What Wear and Marie Claire’s brand studio until 2023, and now freelances globally on shoots, stories, and special projects.
-
7 Effortless Summer Accessories I Swear By That Upgrade Every Outfit
To live is to accessorize.
-
7 Summer Basics You Can Wear All Season Without Getting Bored
Elevated closet staples.
-
I Proved It—Everyone Thinks These 39 Old Navy, Gap, and Zara Items Are Designer
Run and swipe.
-
The Subtle Style Accent That Will Give Your Wardrobe Some New-Season Oomph
Tap in.
-
Boring Sandals Are So 2024—This Summer, Even Minimalists Are Playing Around With Fun Footwear
Beads, hardware, and more.
-
I Have Minimal Style and Wear Refined Pieces—3 Summer Trends I'll Be Wearing
Elevated must-haves.
-
The Quietly Cool Handbags Taking Over Seoul (and Your Instagram Feed Next)
Only the best of the best.
-
I Was a VIPReplica Store Stylist—These 8 Elegant Basics Elevate a Wardrobe
Versatile and chic staples.