Petite
Nov 21, 2021

I'm 5'2" and Need New Fall Clothes—These Are the Under-$50 Items I'm Eyeing

by Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour

Given that, in its current state, my closet has done the very least to inspire me to be my best dressed self this season, I’ve been feeling like it needs a bit of an overhaul lately. Yet, somehow, I’ve nearly blown through my loosely self-imposed shopping budget for both fall and winter, and we're not even a quarter of the way through the colder half of the year yet. On top of that, I’m 5’2”, which never makes things easier in the fashion department. So what’s an editor to do?

Spoiler alert: She shops but very discerningly and, of course, frugally. Sure, it would be nice to browse all your favorite sites and simply purchase whatever you please, but sometimes it’s more enjoyable to limit your spending and still come out on top. To help in that department, I turned to some of my favorite affordable brands and retailers, such as H&M, Zara, and Nordstrom, all of which were rife with options coming in under my $50 budget. Ahead, see everything that caught my eye, including bags, shoes, jeans, tops, and more.

H&M Double-Breasted Jacket

Double-Breasted Jacket

A beige blazer is just as versatile as a black one but so much more impactful in your wardrobe.

Who What Wear x Target Ruffle Long Sleeve Top

Who What Wear x Target

Ruffle Long Sleeve Top

So technically, I already own this, but it's so good I just needed you to know about it.

Urban Renewal Recycled Solid Pleated Mini Skirt

Recycled Solid Pleated Mini Skirt

I'm very into pleated skirts at the moment.

Mango Textured Faux-Shearling Bag

Textured Faux-Shearling Bag

Any outfit can benefit from a touch of texture.

Open Edit V-Neck Crop Pullover

V-Neck Crop Pullover

The cropped, boxy fit is perfect.

BP Everyday Wide Leg Jeans

Everyday Wide Leg Jeans

Everyday seems like an appropriate name for these.

Emi Jay Big Effing Clip in Virgo

Big Effing Clip in Virgo

Is it not the perfect clip for fall?

Zara Seamed Mini Skirt

Seamed Mini Skirt

I saw a friend wearing this skirt at a party and almost didn't believe her when she told me the price.

BP Rib Crop Crewneck Sweater

Rib Crop Crewneck Sweater

It's basic, but no fall wardrobe is complete without a good black sweater.

Patagonia M's L/S P-6 Logo Responsibili-Tee

Better than the basics I usually wear with jeans.

BP Wide Leg Track Pants

Wide Leg Track Pants

Swap your jeans out for these silky pants on your next night out.

H&M Pointed-Toe Mules

Pointed-Toe Mules

The cool and comfortable choice.

Open Edit Oversize Poplin Button-Up Shirt

Oversize Poplin Button-Up Shirt

The black button-down is a fall-and-winter must.

Afrm Gavin Ribbed Top

Gavin Ribbed Top

This will always be my favorite neckline.

Urban Outfitters Tallulah Notch Sweater Skirt

Urban Outfitters

Tallulah Notch Sweater Skirt

Who knew I needed a checked sweater skirt so badly?

H&M Bucket Hat

You'll be happy you have this once winter weather rolls around.

Zara Corduroy Overshirt

Corduroy Overshirt

My favorite fall color and fabric come together in the perfect layer.

Afrm Cynthia Corset Crop Tank

Cynthia Corset Crop Tank

Swap your simple tank in for this seamed situation.

Mango Pin Leather Clog

Pin Leather Clog

How to look luxe in flats.

Zara Oversized Knitwear Vest

Oversized Knitwear Vest

The oversize fit is just so good and makes any outfit instantly feel forward.

Mango Knitted Top With Geometric Print

Knitted Top With Geometric Print

The fabric alone is a statement.

Bp. Faux Leather Flare Leggings

Faux Leather Flare Leggings

Next time I'm about to put on a pair of basic leggings, somebody please stop me and remind me these exist.

H&M Rib-Knit Bolero Sweater

Rib-Knit Bolero Sweater

The smallest layers make the biggest impact.

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