My Friend Has $100 to Spend on Spring Clothes—I’m Suggesting These Items

In style and on budget.

The same thing happens each year without fail: Spring rolls around, and suddenly, I need a brand-new wardrobe. I emerge from all the layers and sweaters of winter ready for a complete closet refresh, and I’m happily greeted by the latest spring trends.  Don’t get me wrong. Reuniting with warm-weather clothes and shopping your own closet is great (there’s nothing like an “Ah, I forgot I had this!” moment), but spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your closet. This spring is bursting with must-try styles, from miniskirts and cutouts to hot pants and trousers.  Seeing as my wallet is not as welcoming to the new season, I’ve become an expert at refreshing my closet without depleting my bank account. So when my friend told me she has $100 to spend on spring clothes, I rounded up the styles I’ve been eyeing this season. I gave her a bunch of options at different price points so she can get a few pieces and stay within her budget or invest in just one for around $100. Ahead, you’ll find the pieces I’m suggesting for her wardrobe wake-up.

This corset bodysuit with a swooping neckline instantly polishes any look. 

This faded-wash, straight-legged pair of 501s is the go-to denim for warmer weather, and the cropped cut gives your cute spring shoes the spotlight they deserve. 

Now’s the time to try an oversize shirtdress, and this light-blue pinstriped version is effortlessly cool. 

Channel your inner flower child with these groovy statement pants for some floral fun. 

You will never regret buying a great button-down shirt.

This vivid red V-neck with cutouts is the top you need to pop off this spring.  

Wear this piece as a shirt, a bandana, or a scarf, or tie it to your bag for a funky pop of color. 

You don’t expect this cute puffed-sleeved mini dress to have an uneven waistline, but that offbeat detail is everything. 

A fresh pair of sneakers with a pop of color does wonders for your wardrobe. 

Look out for loose, colored jeans this spring.

A chic pair of sunglasses elevates any look, and these oval tortoiseshell frames are a classic addition to your closet. 

Your classic button-down gets some edge with a flattering crop and surprise cutout in the back.

Pair these loose-fit cargos with a cropped shirt and sneakers or strappy sandals. Your dad’s cargo pants could never. 

Simple basic from the front, cutout-wrap-detail party from the back.

These two-strap sandals are a must for spring. 

Lean into the 2000s with this trifecta in white denim: ruched, dip waist, and flared.  

Go for an all-black aviator frame for ultimate cool-girl vibes. 

Brighten up your closet with a satin miniskirt in a vibrant color. 

You’ll feel easy and breezy in this lightweight plissé smock dress and eye-catching pattern. 

Colorful mini bags are back for spring, and this croc-embossed chained version spices up any outfit. 

Show off your newly pedicured toes in a pair of comfy slides. 

If you were wearing leather pants this winter, try the shorter, more breathable version for spring. 

Step up your denim game with a purple pair.  

These pink, flared knit pants are the hot pants you’ve been searching for. 

Combine two of the biggest trends of the season, and you can do no wrong. 

This black-wash denim dress with retro detailing is a perfect day-to-night option. 

These satin trousers feature drawstrings around the waist for an ultra-flattering detail that you can adjust for the perfect fit. 

You can’t go wrong with a backless white cami that one reviewer called “the best top ever.” 

Do yourself a favor and add these platform sandals to your cart ASAP. They are the finishing touch for any spring ‘fit.  For more spring styles, check out 8 trends the NYC fashion set will be wearing come spring.