While every season poses its own challenges in terms of styling outfits and shopping, I find winter to be one of the most difficult. Of course, being an L.A. native now living on the East Coast doesn’t help, but I will say I’m proud of how far I’ve come in the last seven or so years in terms of learning how to dress for actually cold weather while maintaining some semblance of my personal style. It wasn’t easy, but I’ve finally learned what works and doesn’t work, as well as what pieces are essential (such as scarves) and which simply should be skipped (think: ankle-bearing pants).
Speaking of those essential items—today, I’ve found the most expensive-looking versions of this year’s key winter basics and trends, all under $49. From jeans and jackets to boots, knits, and everything in between, below you’ll find nearly 50 outfit upgraders that won’t break the bank but will have you looking like a million bucks. Ready to get started? Simply keep scrolling.
Your new night-out top.
You can't not look polished in trousers.
Everyone is wearing this shoe style right now.
If you live on the West Coast, this could quite possibly be your only winter coat.
Love me a cable-knit sweater.
A small belt can make such a big impact.
Every time I look at Zara's denim selection, I start hating all my other pairs.
A must.
I love how polo sweaters look layered over white tees.
I live in this T-shirt.
It's giving rich mom.
Sometimes, it's just beanie weather.
Because who has time to take their gloves off to text?
Try to convince me these don't look expensive.
I want to live in this.
It's not under $49, but I still urge you to consider the matching blazer coat.
Hailey Bieber vibes.
Here's that pop of red you've been hearing so much about.
It's all about oversize right now.
That little bit of wool makes all the difference.
Zara boots never disappoint.
You can layer so much underneath this.
This top can go with anything from jeans to a skirt.
New season, new sunglasses.
Obsessed with how this is styled.
Chic.
Belts make every outfit better.
Okay, it's $49.95, but I needed you to see it!
Don't underestimate the importance of great basics.
Simple yet so chic.
It's obvious why our readers love this dress.
These tights are magical.
Three is better than one.
Hands down, vests are my new favorite top.
So obsessed with slingbacks right now.
Intrigued to say the least.
I'm all about the mod minidress lately.
Bangles are back!
Cozy but chic.
They knew what they were doing making this in four colors.
Flat slingbacks might be my next shoe purchase.
Getting dressed in the morning would be so much easier if I had this.
Everyone needs a pair.
When J.Crew says perfect, I take it literally.
For all your holiday party needs.
I'm obsessed with how this is styled.
Who passes up a $20 leather belt?
This shade of gray is so luxe.
My motto with scarves this season is the bigger, the better.
-
I Know a Viral Item When I See One, and This $90 Zara Barn Jacket Set Off All My Alarm BellsShop, don't snooze.
-
This Is Your Last Chance to Shop the Amazon Big Spring Sale—31 Chic Finds Not to MissSo good even Levi's jeans are on sale.
-
Classic Style Is My Default, But I'm Buying These 7 Trendy Items AnywayCall me curious.
-
7 Easy Yet Elevated Spring Outfit Ideas to Wear on RepeatGet stylishly ready in a snap.
-
Look, If I Were You, I'd Buy These 42 UpscaleReplica Store, Zara, and J.Crew Items Before Anyone ElseThey're too good.
-
I'm a Plus-Size Fashion Editor—42 Stunning Styles I'm Eyeing to Refresh My Spring WardrobeYour spring wardrobe refresh made easy.
-
Rich-Looking Outfits Are the Goal—31 Chic Pieces From the Amazon Big Spring Sale That Fit the BillThese will have you doing a double take.
-
Stop Right There! These Gorgeous H&M and Zara New Arrivals Are Bound to Sell Out SoonThe only spring shopping list you need.
