We Did a Test-Drive of Under-$50 Buys, and the Results Are In

There's never a better time for a refreshing wardrobe haul than December. I, for one, am stockpiling on the items that I feel like I can't enter the new year without. While every store to my liking is hosting holiday hurrahs and happy gatherings to celebrate the end of the year, I'm piling up my cart and checking it twice to make sure I have everything I need for January which is the month that I plan to spend on getting my life together and fine-tuning my budget. That being said, affordability is key right now with all of the holiday gifts that I have on my list. 

I asked a few of my co-workers what their budget-friendly finds have been as of late and since quite a few of them mentioned the Who What Wear x Target collection, I decided we were overdue for a little recap of our favorite editors picks and so I got to work on stalking their IGs for the stoppable looks they've recently worn that included our brand. 

This final drop of the year was made for the holiday season. Featuring universally flattering jewel tones, shearling jackets, and holiday-ready matching sets, our incredibly talented designers definitely saved the best for last. I'm excited to present to you the items that our editors have been gushing over that I might need to stock up on myself, all under $50, of course. Keep scrolling to read all about it.

Jasmine Fox-Suliaman, Audience Engagement Editor

Photo:

@fashionwithjazz

"My work-from-home uniform is comprised of dresses I can throw on that are polished and cozy. So when I spotted this Who What Wear Collection x Target number, I had to get my hands on it. First off, you will not find a more cozy sweater dress—it's the perfect fit and its ribbed fabric feels like a hug without being too tight. I also am obsessed with the eggplant hue, it's like the perfect pop of color for winter. I find myself reaching towards this dress when I need to throw on something quick but don't want to feel disheveled. It's a peak WFH dress."

Kat Collings, Editor in Chief

Photo:

@katcollings

"This cozy jacket is the definition of darling. I love the faux-leather piping, the tortoise buttons, and the puff sleeves. I wore mine with a floral turtleneck dress, but it would go just as easily with jeans and a tee."

Every detail from the exquisite buttons to that pretty lining draws me in.

Allyson Payer, Senior Editor

Photo:

@allypayer

"I can't even describe in words how soft this fleece pullover is. It's truly cloud-like. The polka-dot print is fun without being too precious and it looks perfect with high-waisted jeans. I'll be shocked if this doesn't sell out."

Caitie Schlisserman, Beauty Director, Branded Content

Photo:

@c__bellamy

"I'm not sure how I ever wore jeans as often as I did, because now that I work from home, the thought of having to wear them makes me cringe. But just because I'm not commuting to an office doesn't mean I don't want to get dressed. (In fact, I'm way more productive when I'm wearing something cute!) I just want pieces that are as comfortable as sweatpants, just more elevated. Lucky for me, this little number checks both those boxes. Aside from being super comfy (the fabric is silky smooth), the color is everything: It's rich, elegant, and very on-trend for the season."  

Sarah Yang, Managing Editor

Photo:

@sarahayang

"The pattern on this sweater makes it a little bit more fun and unique, but it's not too busy. And the slightly puffy sleeves are a nice statement-making detail. Plus, it's so warm and cozy. I wore this to an outdoor event with a light jacket and I wasn't freezing at all. I paired it here with a suede skirt, but I'd also wear it with jeans for a more relaxed look."

I was so happy when I realized this came in multiple prints.

Anna LaPlaca, Editor

Photo:

@anna__laplaca

"I can already see myself wearing this cardigan on repeat throughout the winter. I love how the thick cable knit stitch and slightly voluminous sleeves give it a bit of a vintage look. I styled mine as buttoned up with jeans and my favorite Ugg mules here, but it would also be easy to wear it open as a layering piece."

Shop more editor-approved pieces:

If you know me, you know how I feel about wide-leg pants.

Using this sweater as an excuse to book a trip to Aspen.

I've had so much fun styling these pants ever since they entered my closet.

You can't commit without adding the matching pants.