Every season, I like to come up with an overall look that I can center my wardrobe and outfits around. I have a tendency to get ahead of myself, so if I don't set up some guidelines, my closet could end up going in 100 different directions by the time the season comes to a close. This summer, I've settled on a general theme of polished pieces, ensuring that elegance and sophistication reign supreme in my buying decisions. After overspending in the winter and spring, I'm planning on achieving this aesthetic on the cheap this summer, with every item on my wish list ringing up to at no more than $150.
To get the ball rolling ahead of summer's June 20 start day, I spent roughly four hours scrolling through every affordable retailer, from Zara to H&M to Nordstrom, and handpicking the most expensive-looking and refined pieces from their selections. Ahead, check out 30 discoveries that I believe perfectly fit the bill, from a test-driven $40 halter top that looks way more expensive than it is to Zara eyewear that could easily be designer. And those are just the highlights.
I recently tested out this ribbed halter top from Zara, and my co-worker thought it was Khaite—that's how good it is.
I'm counting on this H&M smocked-waist midi skirt going viral and selling out by mid-June.
Oh, these are nice.
Elegance is this white belted dress—period.
I'll take one in every color, please.
This tank > every other tank on the market right now.
Levi's Dad Jeans are slept on. They're pretty much perfect for every outfit.
The color of the season.
Everyone knows that cat-eye sunglasses are the most elegant.
For all the summer beach plans I've been dreaming about all winter long.
Pretty!
I'm a big sun hat person now. It's decided.
I just got this balconette bikini in cream and love it. The black is next on my list.
Shop the matching '90s No-Tie String Bikini Bottom ($20).
Say yes to capri pants this summer.
Consider these ordered and on their way to my doorstep.
An LBD is never a bad idea.
I know this is technically a cosmetics bag, but I think it makes for the cutest and most durable summer mini purse.
This sweater is the perfect level of cropped. Trust me—I've worn it.
Help! My jaw is on the floor.
If I see another person wearing this dress, I'm going to freak out. I need it desperately.
Okay, H&M. Go off.
This shirt is an absolute must for summer.
I'll never say no to new 501s, especially when they're white and it's almost summer.
The perfect pop of red.
This $15 top will pair perfectly with skirts, trousers, and shorts.
I've been searching every Reformation in NYC for this skirt, but it's sold out at all the stores—it's that good.
For chilly summer nights.
This Dissh vest could easily cost five times this price, and I wouldn't blink an eye.
Just easy.
These are beyond comfortable, and they'll fit in even the most cramped of suitcases.
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Leopard Print Is Fine, But This Is the Unexpected Shoe Print Fashion People Are Already Wearing on RepeatControversial yet chic.
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I'm Headed to Montauk, Copenhagen, and Madrid This Summer: 30 Items I'm Buying Now and Packing LaterMy luggage will definitely be overweight, though.
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Keep This Between You and Me: I Just Found a $165 Alt for The Row's Viral and Sold-Out $1300 HeelsYou're welcome.
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These Rich-Looking Pieces Are All Under $100 and Will Transform Your Style Now Through FallAffordable and stylish.
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What If I Told You My Necklace Wasn't The Row, But $38 and Technically a Bag Charm?Yes, I said $38.
