The Best Affordable Fashion Items From H&M, Nordstrom, & Zara

It’s the beginning of a new year so I think it’s safe to assume we’re all looking to elevate our wardrobes for 2026. And while an unlimited shopping spree is tempting, most of us are working within a budget and need to be strategic with our purchases. If this sounds familiar, you’ve come to the right place. I set the price limit to $100 on H&M, Nordstrom, and Zara in search of chic, polished items and found a trove of options that would elevate any closet.

I focused on sophisticated details, classic silhouettes, and great tailoring, which help each item feel much more expensive than it is. My list includes luxe-looking pieces like scarf-accented tops, double-breasted coats, cashmere crewnecks, faux-fur shawls, and croc-embossed loafers. So, if you’re looking to level up your wardrobe in 2026, these 30 finds will help.