I Shop for a Living: These Are the 9 Affordable Brands I Always Buy at Nordstrom

I’m not exaggerating when I say I spend an absurd amount of time perusing the pages of Nordstrom. I have my job to blame, of course. As a fashion market editor, every day, I keep my eyes peeled for the most desirable, cool, and of-the-moment pieces worthy of your wallet. Since I write about the retailer so often today I wanted to share my Nordstrom expertise with you and point you in the direction of some of the coolest, more affordable brands that the retailer has to offer. These are brands that I always come back to and include in my stories regularly because they feel cool, contemporary, and best of all, they won’t break the bank.

From brands that lean into elevated basics to labels that are trend-driven, take a peek below at the affordable brands I always buy at Nordstrom and shop my favorite shopping picks from each label.

I always make a beeline to 4th & Reckless when I’m looking for elevated basics that look super expensive. I like its tops, in particular, which could almost pass for designer.

This looks so expensive.

This is giving me Jacquemus vibes.

The perfect dress for an evening out.

Minis are having a major moment.

I’ll be getting this for my upcoming summer vacation.

Effortlessly elegant.

A favorite among our fashion editors, Nordstrom-made brand Open Edit carries trend-forward basics and accessories with most pieces coming in at $50 or under.

Pair with high-waisted jeans.

These could pass for designer.

Just add a belt, tank top, and flatform sandals.

Guaranteed you’ll reach for this on repeat.

A staple in your year-round wardrobe.

Get the Prada look without the price tag.

A trusty staple.

When it comes to of-the-moment trendy pieces at an affordable price point, Topshop is a must. I’ve always been a fan of its dresses and pants. The selection of handbags are always on-trend too.

The fashion crowd are loving relaxed trousers right now.

The back is super cute too.

Give your raffia tote a fresh upgrade.

Topshop do floral dresses really well.

Chic!

We can’t believe this is under $70.

An oversize button will be your go-to this season.

A modern silhouette.

Gorgeous with a capital G.

Finding affordable jewelry that looks expensive can be a challenge but Petit Moments do it really well. Its modern pearl pieces, in particular, always catch my eye.

Craftsy pearl jewelry is a summer must.

Everyday hoops you’ll reach for again and again.

Wear alone or layer with other necklaces.

Elevate your ensembles.

A chain necklace always looks chic.

It goes without saying that Madewell always wins when it comes to effortless casual cool-girl staples. Its denim, tanks, and staple tees make up a lot of my own personal wardrobe.

The perfect casual fit.

A no-brainer.

I literally own so many Madewell tees—they do them so well.

Hello, new summer shorts.

A fashion-insider favorite.

Give your stripe tee a welcome update.

A great straight-leg silhouette.

Trendy and affordable, River Island carries fun statement pieces that will keep you looking current.

Plissé always looks expensive.

Time to try this season’s biggest color trend.

So sophisticated.

An Insta-worthy swimsuit.

Another one going in my suitcase for my vacay.

Luxe-looking.

Another Nordstrom brand, BP, is my go-to when I’m looking for super affordable basics, accessories, and statement pieces.

Wow, I can’t believe these are $35.

BP has a great selection of tanks.

Look pretty in pointelle.

A hat that will make your outfit.

Such a sleek bodysuit.

Geometric shades are trending.

It’s all about tube tops this summer.

For free-spirited and relaxed styles, Free People’s edit at Nordstrom is a must.

Love the pretty lace detailing.

Get in on the cutout trend.

A floral frock to love.

The back is sleek too.

A charming print.

I was so excited when I saw & Other Stories added to Nordstrom’s lineup of brands. The effortlessly chic brand is a favorite among our editors and carries a reasonably affordable mix of chic and versatile pieces.

& Other Stories have great jeans.

Lean into the preppy trend.

How lovely is this hue?

Fun!

Just add black strappy sandals.

Dolce Vita has a really nice range of trend-forward yet versatile shoes that hover around the $100-and-under price point. I always get compliments when I wear the brand’s shoes.

These are already on their way to me.

How comfy do these look?

Sandals made for dancing.

Amp up your basics with this eye-catching color.

These also come in black.

Up next, I just created six spectacular summer outfits from Nordstrom for under $300.