My Under-$400 Edit: Everything I'm Buying Now to Look On-Trend in 2026
With the spring/summer 2026 collections recently wrapped up on the runways at fashion month, I'm already thinking ahead to what I'll be wearing next year. We examined the biggest shows of the season, as well as the standout trends we're predicting will shape fashion in 2026. So, how does that translate to key shopping finds of the moment?
Some of the buzziest looks incorporated bourgeois dressing, incorporating printed satin scarves, knits tied in various manners, and double-breasted jackets and coats. A sense of optimism and joy brought energetic prints, color, and '80s-style coats to the forefront. Intricate layering breathed new life into closet staples such as button-ups and preppy polos. The coat stood out as a central investment piece. Clashing colors turned the neutral, quiet luxury palette on its head. If you're looking to get a head start on directional dressing, ahead is an editor-approved shopping list of the pieces to add to your closet now—all under $400.
Take a styling note from Khaite and flip up the hem of a denim pencil skirt. Then, pair it with a polished jacket and kitten-heel pumps
Tap into the opening look at Chanel with a checked jacket and trousers. Affix a brooch to the jacket while you're at it.
Auralee always breathes a cool, modern spin into classic preppy looks. Add a punchy-colored polo underneath a car coat.
At Boss, we saw new spins on traditional sportswear. It all comes down to the palette and proportions.
Altuzarra brought a grown-up take on a leggings look to the runway. Cigarette pants make this outfit feel extra polished.
At Celine, Michael Rider is making a strong case for printed scarf details.
Add dimension to your look by adding a pastel knit tied around the shoulders as spotted on the Bottega Veneta runway.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.