It's the beginning of a new year so I think it's safe to assume we're all looking to elevate our wardrobes for 2026. And while an unlimited shopping spree is tempting, most of us are working within a budget and need to be strategic with our purchases. If this sounds familiar, you've come to the right place. I set the price limit to $100 on H&M, Nordstrom, and Zara in search of chic, polished items and found a trove of options that would elevate any closet.
I focused on sophisticated details, classic silhouettes, and great tailoring, which help each item feel much more expensive than it is. My list includes luxe-looking pieces like scarf-accented tops, double-breasted coats, cashmere crewnecks, faux-fur shawls, and croc-embossed loafers. So, if you're looking to level up your wardrobe in 2026, these 30 finds will help.
Keep scrolling to shop the best affordable fashion items from H&M, Nordstrom, and Zara.
H&M
H&M
Shawl-Detail Satin Blouse
Scarf details are the moment.
H&M
Double-Breasted Coat
So timeless.
H&M
Cable-Knit Sweater
Look at that texture!
H&M
Loafers
Yes to croc-embossed everything.
H&M
Jacket
Now that's a good faux fur.
H&M
Ponte Tube Top
Pair with skirts or trousers for an elevated look.
H&M
Cable-Knit Polo Sweater
Not only are polos on-trend, they also add an air of polish to your look.
H&M
Tie-Belt Coat
Wrap coats are the definition of luxury.
Nordstrom
MANGO
Audrey Half D'orsay Pump
These are just gorgeous.
Nordstrom
Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Nothing says sophisticated like a cashmere sweater.
Open Edit
Polished Teardrop Stud Earrings
Even a T-shirt looks elevated when paired with these.
MANGO
Caro Ruched Long Sleeve Midi Dress
The ruching is so flattering.
Nordstrom
Cashmere Lined Leather Touchscreen Gloves
A low-key fancy winter staple.
MANGO
Mica Pointed Toe Slingback Pump
The satin!
MANGO
Turtleneck Sweater
Fashion people are obsessed with this particular shade of grey right now.
Open Edit
The Curator Trousers
Great tailoring is the key to always looking put together.
Open Edit
Corina Slingback Half D'orsay Pointed Toe Kitten Heel Pump
Chic.
MANGO
Turtleneck Sweater
I just love this color.
Zara
ZARA
Plain Wool Blend Hat
Stay warm in the chicest way possible.
ZARA
Soft Ruched Loafers
For instant polish.
ZARA
Soft Coat With Faux Fur Collar
Faux fur adds an elegant touch.
ZARA
Soft Knit Sweater
A classic.
ZARA
Belted Midi Dress
How chic.
ZARA
Suede Kitten Heel Slingbacks
Between the rich chocolate brown and the soft suede texture, I can't decide what I like more.
ZARA
Triangular Faux Fur Scarf
The styling is also perfection.
ZARA
Short Coat With High Neck
A high neck is so sophisticated.
ZARA
100% Leather Combination Gloves
This color!
ZARA
Soft Knit V-Neck Sweater
A classic sweater whispers wealth.
ZARA
Suede Effect Bomber Jacket
Ok this is right at $100 but the suede looks so luxe.
ZARA
100% Leather Belt With Square Buckle
A foolproof investment.
ZARA
Contrast Piping Knit Sweater
The contrast piping makes this look much more expensive than it is.