I Study the Runways, and These Under-$150 Finds Stand Out to Me

Ready for some fresh fashion buys? This year is off to a strong start, and the new-arrivals sections are really popping off right now. How do I know this? Over the past few weeks, I’ve done a ton of trend research for the year ahead, poring over the fall/winter 2023 collections, studying what buzzy designers like Khaite, Tory Burch, and Ferragamo are putting on their runways, and scanning my social media feeds to find out what people are talking about. In other words, I have a pretty good idea of what’s to come in fashion this year, and I plan on shopping accordingly.

Based on my findings, I’ve come to the conclusion that the under-$150 items you’re about to see below—from the shoulder-bag shape that will be the blueprint for every other trendy bag to the classic color that magically elevates anything to the fresh wardrobe basics that everyone will wear—are as some of the coolest affordable finds of the moment and will be important throughout the year. I’m particularly excited about each of these items, and I know you will be too.

Proenza Schouler fall/winter 2023 runway

With metallics reaching a fever pitch, the high-shine trousers Proenza Schouler showed at NYFW last month immediately caught my attention. Luckily, this wallet-friendly Gap find is helping satisfy my desire for a pair.

With Prada sending heeled Mary Janes down its runways in back-to-back seasons, I’m convinced the style is one to watch.

Bold cuffs and bangles adorned some of the standout spring runway looks. Shop this J.Crew style (which also comes in silver) if you’re smart.

If the fall runways have anything to do with it, column skirts are officially here to stay.

Tory Burch fall/winter 2023 runway

I haven’t thought about owning fishnets in years, but when they featured prominently in Tory Burch’s fall lineup, I found myself searching for a pair.

The fashion world is pressuring me to put my moto jacket on hold for a cool racing style like this—and I’m caving.

Imperfections like purposeful wrinkles and raw edges were details that featured prominently across the recent collections. 

There’s just something so fresh about crescent-shaped bags.

Prada fall/winter 2023 runway

You heard it here first: Full skirts are back.

I like the look of Miu Miu’s hardware-heavy moto boots, but these are definitely a more wearable option.

If you take anything away from the recent runways, it should be to get yourself a leather belt.

The combination of ballet pink and satin here is so pretty.

The Row spring/summer 2023 runway

Hit ’90s mode in this easy tube dress.

You may see a basic trench coat, but I see a duster hemline that instantly elevates anything.

Designers lately are all about showcasing the collarbone, and I think the results are just stunning.

Controversial news: Bubble hems are back. They’re adjacent to the balletcore trend, so I style them with spring’s sweet details like bows and ballet flats.

Ferragamo fall/winter 2023 runway

If the popularity of Bottega Veneta’s Drop Earrings is any indication (which it is), then the large dome studs that Ferragamo just showed are bound to be the next jewelry It piece. This rather cheap Etsy find pretty much nails the look.

Another expensive-looking pair I’m personally backing.

Semi-sheer knits have been flooding the recent runways, from Tory Burch to Miu Miu. This $60 Zara pick is an easy way to get in on things.

A tissue-thin turtleneck in this vibrant shade of red is just what your winter-to-spring wardrobe needs.

David Koma fall/winter 2023 runway

With so many cool looks involving ties and button-downs, I’m inspired to tab over to the men’s section to try out the styling idea for myself.

Sculptural silver jewelry is rapidly overtaking gold on the runways and now in my own jewelry box.

Look out, boxy blazers—your replacement has just arrived.

Try these with kitten heels and the above blazer for a very 2023 feel.

Finally, a wearable way to dive into the sheer trend.

Up next, get your download on every trend to know from London Fashion Week.