If You Have Expensive Taste on a Budget, These Under-$150 Summer Picks Are Key

Most Wanted is a weekly series in which one editor, staffer, or influencer shares their top 30 must-haves or current wish-list items.

It’s currently 75° and sunny in NYC, and after an unpredictable winter and too many months of wearing coats, I’ve never been happier to see sweat stains. This city has always been my style inspiration, so after a few weeks of people-watching, I’ve concluded that my wardrobe is lacking some of summer’s finest trends and staples. Think maxi skirts, fun sandals, and statement dresses. The thrill of this pleasant weather has transported me from the busy New York streets to my air-conditioned bedroom for a much-needed internet deep-dive. But there’s a catch: I’m on a budget, so I’m in search of items that look way more expensive than they are. If you’re reading this right now, you’re probably on the same page. Luckily for you, I’ve opened several tabs, added tons of items to my cart, and sent multiple “I need this” text messages over the past few hours. Out of everything I saw on the internet, I can’t get these 40 pieces off my mind, and they’re all under $150. I don’t mean to brag, but there is quite the lineup below. Keep scrolling to find some of your new seasonal essentials.

Dare I say sheer perfection?

Grab these before they’re gone. This colorway is bound to sell out.

Minimal tan lines, maximum style. This bandeau bikini top offers incredible support for larger busts with soft, lightly padded cups, underwire, and side boning. Did I mention the removable straps? 

Summer wedding, anyone?

Denim maxi skirts aren’t going anywhere. Act accordingly.

If miniskirts are more your vibe.

A colorful twist on the metallic trend.

Slip into summer. (Sorry, I had to.) PS: It comes in seven colors, and I want them all.

And the award for most comfortable bikini goes to this wireless triangle top. The cups are soft, lightly padded, and quick drying. I’ll be sporting this black one for the foreseeable future.

A swimsuit cover-up, office top, and summer layer all in one under-$50 find.

In short, these heels are heavily on-trend and on my mind. 

You’ll regret passing up this summer staple. You’ve been warned.

My mouth fell open when I saw the price. This top looks way more expensive than it is.

When creating your summer capsule wardrobe, make sure these are at the top of your list.

Reversible and reserved for all of your everyday looks.

My TikTok algorithm got a hold of this dress, and now the only next step is to add it to my cart.

The Barbiecore trend lives on. 

The matching skirt, of course.

This shirtdress screams summer, and I’m all ears. 

I don’t have a European summer in the books, but this skirt makes me feel like I should.

If you’re looking for me, you can find me at the nearest beach sunbathing in this straw bucket hat. 

Buy this dress, and prepare to make a statement without saying a word. 

Don’t mind me—I’m just putting this pretty going-out top on your radar.

What can I say? This dress is cut out for you. (Pun intended.)

I believe in the power of basics.

My summer vibe is a light base, this cream berry blush, and a glossy lip.  

My fellow editors can’t stop raving about this product, and their glowy selfies don’t lie. 

I’m convinced that everyone needs this waistcoat, myself included.

Wear this ensemble with the Adidas Gazelles above for that cool, effortless vibe.

Your style can go through every change imaginable, and this shirt will still be a top pick.

The buckle detail is taking your ordinary sandal to new heights.

Add a little bit of color to the sea of white T-shirts in your closet. This is one highly rated and versatile.

When they say “everything spray,” they mean everything. Its functions include but are not limited to facial toner, underarm refresher, and post-shaving spray. 

My only summer goal is to achieve glowing, moisturized skin. It will be accomplished in three to five business days when this body oil arrives.

When this arrives on my doorstep, I’m styling it just like it’s pictured above and adding an oversize button-down. It’s available in four colors and in sizes XXS–4X, by the way. 

This contrasting waist band, though. 

Suddenly, I’ve forgotten about all of the other trousers in my wardrobe. 

Trading in your sweater-vests for crochet layers? Me, too.

Plumping, nourishing, and not sticky? Yep, this is everything I want in a lip gloss.

Consider this a chic addition to your 2023 vacation looks. 

Up next: I Made a Shopping List of 29 Summer Pieces Cool Fashion People Are Wearing