One of my favorite things is when friends ask me to help them shop. Similarly, when someone asks for my opinion about whether or not they should buy something, I'm honest. After all, they didn't take the time to text me links for me to lie to them. When taking a peek at someone's shopping cart, I often find too many flash-in-the-pan, trendy items and too many similar items. So when a friend recently asked me for help narrowing down their H&M, Zara, and J.Crew carts, I knew exactly how to lend my services.
These three retailers make so many great things, but when brands have such a large inventory like these do, being picky is necessary. And luckily, I am. So, if you're wondering what I put in my friend's cart from each site, keep scrolling to find out and shop with us.
H&M
These sell out every summer, so you should probably get them now.
They look so expensive.
Something this pretty for under $50 is a small miracle.
Such a cool and easy way to wear the fringe trend.
You'll wear this so much—trust me.
This is *the* accessory trend everyone is wearing with swimsuits.
Ordering these in every color is seriously tempting.
This would look so chic with a slim black skirt or black cigarette pants.
I can't get over how elevated these look.
I like this so much better than my plain white midi skirts.
If you zoom in, you'll see that these are actually crocheted, so that $18 price point sounds even better.
Zara
The most essential of the summer wardrobe essentials.
Just add a pair of kitten-heel flip-flops.
It also comes in yellow and baby blue.
These pretty sandals will actually go with so many things.
This look so chic with flat sandals.
Four words: butter yellow suede jacket.
Most of the shorts like this that I've come across are four times the price.
Just a really good pair of summer pants.
For wearing with the aforementioned pants or denim.
As polished and elegant as denim shorts get.
This is the best pair of affordable peep-toe shoes I've seen.
J.Crew
The only reason I haven't ordered this myself yet is because I can't decide on a color.
The matching skirt is a must.
J.Crew bikinis are consistently great.
Shop the matching Ronnie Bikini Bottoms ($80).
Chocolate brown raffia bags are a rare find.
Just a great pair of linen pants.
The perfect year-round tee to pair with denim.
Our entire team of editors is freaking out over this skirt.
Everyone needs a chic little denim dress.
Such a cool, easy take on the track jacket trend.
I might have to order this one, too.
I predict these won't be in stock for much longer.
-
You Want A Chic Handbag For Under $500? Say Less—I Love These 35 StylesTo gift or keep for yourself? The choice is yours.
-
These New Zara Finds Will Sell Out Before December 1Shop the editor-approved picks.
-
I'm a Stylist Who Travels Constantly—This Is All I Want to Wear After a Long TripFirst-class comfort.
-
These Latest H&M New Arrivals Are No Joke: 47 Pieces That'll Get You Compliments and Make Your Haters JealousA category-by-category breakdown of the best new arrivals.
-
Writer and Store Owner Laurel Pantin Told Me Her Incredibly Chic Holiday Gift PicksInspiring and whimsical, as always.
-
I Escaped to Boston for a Weekend—3 Chic J.Crew Outfits Perfect for New England FallEffortless style.
-
Not Snakeskin, Not Croc—These Two Underrated Animal Prints Are Quietly Staging a Fashion CoupFrom J.Crew to Khaite.
-
These $50 Old Navy Zipped Boots Are Just as Chic as the $1500 Pair I Have Been Coveting Since Last WinterThey're on sale for $30 right now.
