BuzzFeed and our publishing partners may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. Read More

23 Budget-Friendly Fashion Finds That Prove You Don’t Need A Ton Of Money To Be Stylish

This swirl necklace is the perfect “throw it on and look amazing” accessory.

Posted 2 minutes ago

Facebook

Pinterest

by Iman Sakrani BuzzFeed Contributor

I am a contributor and former resident writer at BuzzFeed Shopping, where I covered everything from fashion to kitchen products — but beauty and travel are my bread and butter (and shopping vices).

Unless otherwise specified, all sizes in this post are listed in women’s.

1. A crochet skull cap with shimmering sequins that'll add just the right amount of sparkle to any outfit. It's a fun way to elevate a basic look, hide greasy roots, and look cool with minimal effort.

Free People

Promising review: "I’m a sucker for some sparkle! I got the blue and the bronze (I’m a cancer patient and wear wigs, so that’s why my hair is different in the photos), they’re lovely and really fun! Just a cute way to add some character to your look! And I think the price is reasonable :)" —Amberdawn22

Get it from Free People for $30 (available in six colors).

2. An off-shoulder poncho to toss over a tank, tee, slip dress, or swimsuit whenever your outfit needs a little something extra. The open-knit design is perfect for adding dimension to your outfit.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Such a cute top! I used it as a cover-up for the beach, and wore it around the city with a tube top underneath. Love it so much!" —Eliza Muhler

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes 3XS–6XL and 33 colors).

3. A silky satin scarf that you'll find yourself styling a dozen different ways. You can wear it as a headscarf, tie it around a ponytail or bun, wrap it around your purse handle, or knot it around your neck for an effortless pop of color. It's one of those inexpensive accessories that can completely transform even the simplest outfit.

www.amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "These scarves are so pretty and elevate any outfit instantly. The material feels soft and silky, and I love that it can be styled in different ways — on a handbag, around the neck, in your hair, or even as a chic vacation accessory. Great quality for the price, and looks much more expensive than expected." —NL

Get it from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in 41 prints).

4. A pair of wide-leg lounge pants with a thick elastic waistband and a drawstring for oodles of comfort. They're made from a super soft, almost silky fabric that's lightweight and flowy enough to keep you comfortable all day.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Super well made, nice thick waistband, deep pockets, so so so soft, I don’t want to take them off! I probably could have gotten a smaller size, but they’re for lounging around the house, so it’s fine. Will probably buy more because they’re so good, and the color is stunnnnnning! So so happy." —heathered

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes S–5X and 25 colors).

5. Uniqlo's mini shoulder bag that's earned its cult-favorite status for good reason. It's lightweight, surprisingly roomy, and goes with practically everything, making it the kind of everyday bag you'll reach for again and again.

Uniqlo

Promising review: "I bought a second one in a different shade. This bag is perfect for flying. I use it to keep my travel documents within reach and my phone, hand sanitizer, and headphones secure during the flight. It's small and soft enough that it doesn't take up much space on my lap or beside me, so I don't need to stow it under the seat in front of me. But it's surprisingly spacious." —Helena

Get it from Uniqlo for $24.90 (available in 12 colors).

6. A set of lettuce-hem socks you can adjust based on length to add that touch of cutesy flair to your fits. They go great with basically any shoe that needs a sock and are especially fun to pair with ~edgier~ shoes for that cool, juxtaposed look. Get ready to have your ankles *stared* at. 

Amazon

Promising review:  "These are cute socks, and they feel soft. They come folded at the ankle, the lattice cut comes down to the ankle." —Elsa

Get a set of three from Amazon for $7.99+ (available in three colors and in three-packs). 

7. A pleated tennis skort just perfect for cute athleisure 'fits, with a tie at the waist so you don't have to keep pulling it up throughout the day *and* pockets built into the attached shorts. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Kid you not, I wear this skort everywhere! I can style it with everything. It’s comfortable, stretchy, and covers my butt! The thickness of the material is perfect! I want to purchase in several colors!" —Mahjong Lee

Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and in 12 colors).

8. A pair of ballet flats with padded memory foam insoles, so they're comfortable enough to wear all day, while the timeless silhouette pairs effortlessly with everything from casual to upscale fits.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These are seriously the best flats I've ever owned (and believe me, I've tried a lot of them). These were super comfortable the first day I wore them, and NO blisters! Great shoes for work or casual attire. I will be purchasing these in every color!" —Casey

Get them from Amazon for $18.30+ (available in sizes 5–15, including wide sizes, four styles, and in 28 colors). 

9. A square-neck bodysuit to tuck into all your cute flowy pants and skirts without any fabric bunching or lumping — reviewers swear by its comfort. You'll probably wear it so often, you'll end up buying more (and who can blame you)!  

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Best thing in my wardrobe. This is my go-to office top. It’s super soft and stretchy!" —Karen Rodriguez

"I AM OBSESSED WITH THIS BODYSUIT! This is the most comfortable bodysuit I have ever worn! I’ve now ordered it in white and tan because it is a perfect basic to have in your closet for any season! I paired it with jeans, but it would also look cute with slacks, shorts, or even a skirt! Super easy to dress up for work by throwing a blazer over it! Or even dressing it up for a night out on the town with some cute heels and jewelry! DEFINITELY RECOMMEND!!" —Melissa Edmunds

Get it from Amazon for $13.49+ (available in sizes XS–XXL and a variety of colors/styles). 

10. A ribbed button-up tank people will definitely think you got from Abercrombie & Fitch. It’s the kind of elevated basic that turns a quick errand into a mini fashion moment — so don’t be surprised if a stranger asks where you scored it while you’re sipping your coffee.

Amazon

Promising review: "So cute, love it! Functional buttons all the way down. Light ribbed fabric and the style is darling!" —Megan 

Get it from Amazon for$12.99+ (available in sizes S–XL and 16 colors). 

11. A pair of round circle sunglasses if your habit of *frequently* losing sunnies has you too scared to invest in a designer pair — these give you the high-end look without the splurge. They have a strong, flexible frame and polarized lenses to help protect your peepers from harsh rays.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "For the money, you can’t beat 'em! These look amazing on my face, like a $300 pair of sunglasses. I have tried several pairs, and this brand looks and feels comparable to a pair of Ray-Bans and Pradas. I have a smaller face, and to me, this pair fits the best, perfect for my nose and brow line. I couldn’t be happier, just wish there were 6 stars so everyone would know how amazing they are. If you are questioning whether or not they will look as good on you as they do in the photos, yes... Yes, they do." —Andrew

Get them from Amazon for $19.99 (available in six colors).

12. A longline sports bramade from a very soft, stretchy material that's pretty similar to the Lulu Align tank. It's quickly become a staple in a ton of reviewers' wardrobes, and many say they don't even wear a bra with this because of the supportive padding. It's so good, people are snagging it in different colors — and you’ll probably want to as well. 😉

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I LOVE this sports bra! I have one I have been wearing for about a year now… finally broke down and bought two more!! Very comfortable fabric; easy to get off/on; the shoulder straps work well for me (most sports bras cut into the soft shoulder area for me, causing pain); they wash well (I hang mine to dry)! Will be buying more colors!!!" —Janarie K. Ramelli

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+(available in sizes XS–3XL and 51 colors). 

13. A lightweight, flowy printed cover-up to elevate your beachwear, add flair to a simple tank and jeans, or serve as a stylish layer over a dress. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

This comes in one size, and reviewers ranging from size XS to 3XL say it's a comfortable fit.

Promising review: "I love a good cover-up that can make my travel wardrobe versatile. I took this on vacation and was able to wear it with cotton capri leggings, shorts, and even over the top of a black dress for a little extra coverage in a cold restaurant." —Janna

Get it from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in 50 colors/patterns).

14. A pair of cargo pants that would definitely show up as the dictionary definition of ~versatile~. These are soft, thick, and breathable, *and* they have an elastic waistband. And if I had a dollar for every pocket these pants have, I'd have $6 — that's enough to go purse-free!

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

They're also moisture-wicking, which will come in handy when you get caught in the rain or snow. And you can size up or down depending on the fit you're looking for!

Promising review: "The pants were really cute, and the color goes/matches with anything. The pants are also very comfortable, and the quality is amazing. The zipper also works really well. They're thick and really good for the winter." —GREATTT

Get them from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes XS–4XL and 33 colors). 

15. A long and flowy tank, because it has lace trim to add a touch of elegance to your casual look. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Considering that I have five or six of these shirts now and, by simply wearing them, have convinced other women to also buy their own, perhaps it’s time I write a review. Really, do I need to say more? I love these colors, and the lace trim, and the fabric is cottony and flowy. I have seriously stocked up on these for work." —LadyLuck

Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in sizes L–5X and 13 colors).

16. A pair of stunning tiered pearl statement earrings, so you don't even need to bother putting on anything more than jeans and a simple tee, since these will carry the look through the finish line. I mean, just LOOK at them!

www.amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "Loved these earrings! They didn’t weigh down my ears. Very elegant as well. I would purchase again." —Jasmine

Get them from Amazon for $7.98.

17. A scoop-neck top that's really giving Skims a run for its money. It's super soft with the perfect amount of thickness and stretchiness, making it the perfect versatile staple for your closet. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "This is the perfect basic tee. It is well-structured and great material. It’s buttery soft to the touch, but thick enough to feel high-quality. You can dress it up or down and replace all your old basic tees with this leveled-up version. I also got it in white, but now I think I need to get every color they have available! —CK

Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in sizes XXS–4XL and 34 colors).

18. A pair of running shorts so you can save money *not* splurging on name-brand versions. These are made from a soft, breathable fabric and have a thick, stretchy elastic waistband and zippered pockets big enough to hold your phone, cards, and keys. 

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "DO NOT WALK….RUN! Better than all my Lululemon shorts EASILY! These shorts look great while being so comfortable. I do CrossFit and I felt covered the whole time, but didn’t feel like I was being suffocated, the fabric is so breathable the zipper is a perfect size, I love everything about these shorts. I can not recommend them enough. I’ve told everyone who will listen, these are THE shorts everyone needs." —MadelineVanHoose

Get them from Amazon for $19.99+ (available in sizes XS–3XL and 29 colors).

19. A pair of Gloria Vanderbilt straight-leg jeans that are basically the Swiss Army knife of denim. You can dress them up, dress them down, and even sleep in them (they're that comfortable). Reviewers love how well-made they are, and who can blame them?

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising reviews: "Not too tight, no bulging, high-waisted, etc. These jeans are NOT tight, but do have some stretch. They lie flat on my tummy and leave room in the thighs. I am glad I ordered long, they hit just at the bottom of my feet. Bought two more in different colors!! Winning!! —Michael M.

"These are one of my favorite pairs of jeans! The fit, the color, the sizing, and the style are all perfect! The fabric has just enough give to make them fit perfectly and wear comfortably. I have purchased jeans for $125 or more for a pair that are hanging in my closet unworn, because they don't look as good. Not these, and they are the perfect weight to wear year-round. They come in so many different colors and size combinations, you are sure to find a pair that is right for you." —Pam Chaney

Get them from Amazon for $20.03+ (available in sizes 2–24 straight, 16–26 plus, three lengths, and many different washes).

20. A skinny belt, which easily complements dresses, skirts, or high-waisted pants. It's perfect for adding that touch of sophistication to any outfit, and the gold buckle detail makes your fits look expensive. A staple belt simply never goes out of style, and you will get a lot of wear out of this one.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "Elevates every work outfit! These are the cutest belts! I get the most wear out of the black, and it makes every pair of trousers look super chic and professional. The adjustable back is good for pants with different waists and is super comfy even after a big lunch! Also, I get compliments all the time, and some people even think it's designer, haha." —Amy S

Get them from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in waist sizes below 37-inches, below 43-inches, and below 52-inches, which means each category represents the maximum waist measurement for that size. Also available in various colors, and in packs of two or three).

21. A swirl pendant necklace for bringing instant “where did you get that?” energy to any outfit. The sleek metallic finish gives it a modern look, while the artistic design adds a fun twist.

Urban Outfitters

Promising review: "I’ve gotten so many compliments on this necklace. The quality is decent, I would say worth the price." —fartpizzaaa

Get it from Urban Outfitters for $25.

22. An off-the-shoulder top that definitely has model off-duty vibes. It's a step up from your average tank, but still goes with anything you'd normally wear with a tank, and you can mix it up by wearing it on or off the shoulder to switch up the neckline.

www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com

Promising review: "I love this top! I feel hot in it; it's made of quality material and layers easily. It's tight enough to hold everything in place when I dance. I loved this top and got so many compliments that I purchased it in pink and black! One of my go-to Amazon recommendations to friends." —expLauren

Get it from Amazon for $7.19+ (available in sizes XS–XL and 21 colors/prints).

23. Cozy joggers that are soft, stretchy, and have an elastic waistband so you can move freely while working out or recovering from a food coma. 

www.amazon.com

Promising review: "These pants are amazing. I have worn them in the airport for a full day of traveling and to work with a pair of heels and a jacket. I love the packets, I love the fit, and I get compliments on them all the time. If you are on the fence, get off of it and go place your order!" —ellen knecht

Get them from Amazon for $12.99+ (available in sizes S–3XL and 20+ colors and prints).

Still looking for the perfect wardrobe update for *y-o-u*? Try these:

* If Your Wardrobe Makes You Wanna Snooze, These 31 Pieces Will Wake You Up

* Clothing Items Perfect For Those “Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold” Days

* Things You Can Wear Multiple Ways On Vacation If You’re Tight On Suitcase Space

* Fashion Pieces Reviewers Say They Want In Every Color

* If You Wait All Year For Fall Fashion, You’ll Want These 31 Cute Pieces

Plus, finds from Aerie, Athleta, Banana Republic, Eloquii, Free People, Gap, J.Crew Factory, Loft, Madewell, Old Navy, Target, Torrid, and Walmart.

Why Trust BuzzFeed Shopping?

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.