I Spend Most of the Year in NYC—Here Are 33 Affordable Fashion Finds I Have My Eye on This Season

Kaye Bassey is a Who What Wear editor in residence known for her near-decade-long career as a fashion and beauty content creator, influencer, and writer. She recently launch her Substack newsletter, covering trends, outfit ideas, shopping recommendations, and other insider tips.

With it still being the early days of a new year, it’s only natural to embrace that “out with the old, in with the new” mindset. I love how this time of year inspires us to turn a new leaf—building better habits and finally tackling the things we’ve been putting off. There’s something refreshing about a clean slate and the newness of the first few months of the year.

For me, that reset always includes a closet revamp. I believe in maintaining a healthy churn within my wardrobe. Keeping pieces in steady rotation and letting go of the ones that no longer serve me. If you haven’t worn something more than a handful of times or never instinctively reach for it, chances are it’s ready to find a new home in someone else’s closet.

As winter comes to an end, with weather ranging from cold to now warmer. I find myself daydreaming, planning, and curating the pieces I’m craving for the year ahead. Winter was intentionally slower on the shopping front, as it should be. Instead, I focused on decluttering, gathering my thoughts, setting goals, and mapping out how to execute them.

Now that I’ve started the year feeling consistent and intentional, I’m excited to continue building the wardrobe of my dreams—keeping spending mindful while investing in pieces that are versatile, timeless, and effortlessly chic. Here are a few finds under $150 to help fill the gaps and refresh your looks as we step into the new season.

Accessories

Personally, I’ve always been drawn to accessories. They are the ideal finishing touches that make an outfit feel intentional. A playful piece woven into your hair, a stack of rings, a bracelet that catches the light just right… I’m especially partial to a standout accessory.

Lately, I’ve been gravitating toward exaggerated, bold jewelry and hair pieces that can stand on their own. I love defining, expressive accents that instantly elevate even the simplest look. There’s something powerful about a piece that does all the talking.

And when it comes to a little spur-of-the-moment shopping, I love finding treasures without the splurge. Below are a few pieces I’ve been eyeing: some timeless and classic, some with an antique, vintage-inspired charm, and others that are unapologetically statement-making for the moment.

Loungewear and Sleepwear Sets

There’s something so polished and put-together about coordinated loungewear or sleepwear, even if no one else sees it. It’s a simple addition to my wardrobe, but it elevates my days in the most subtle way. I often find myself reaching for pieces from Victoria’s Secret, Intimissimi, and Eberjey. They are all brands that do remarkably soft, comfortable lounge and sleep sets so well. And I’ll never say no to a delicate silk chemise with a matching robe.

Dresses

You can never have too many beautiful frocks that transition effortlessly from day to night. Style them with layered jewelry and simple sandals as we move toward spring, or add knits and tailored outerwear when the temperatures dip. The versatility is what makes them indispensable.

When choosing dresses, I like to keep a strong foundation of neutrals that can be dressed up or down and styled in countless ways. A well-cut silhouette in a timeless shade becomes a blank canvas – ready for bold accessories one day and a pared-back, minimal mood the next. It’s that flexibility that makes a wardrobe feel not only elevated, but endlessly wearable.

Tops

It’s officially knit season, and nothing feels more effortless than a charming sweater styled with a skirt, tailored trousers, or even mini shorts. There’s something undeniably feminine and soft about the contrast, with cozy texture paired with a polished silhouette.

When it comes to cardigans, I’m much more open to experimenting with prints, unexpected colors, and rich textures. A statement knit is an easy way to breathe new life into your wardrobe and add a touch of playful energy to your everyday looks.

Bottoms

Here are a few bottoms that pair seamlessly with the staples you already own. As a tall girl, length in my pants and denim is everything for me. Finding pants and skirts that hit just right makes all the difference in how polished a look feels.

Corduroy is easily one of my favorite textures for trousers. It’s soft, endlessly wearable, and somehow gets better with every wash. Of course, everyone needs that classic pair of denim, the kind you can rely on without a second thought.

As the days stretch a little longer and the air turns warmer, I love reaching for silk bottoms styled with cozy knits or lightweight cardigans on top. That balance of fluid and structured, soft and substantial, feels effortlessly chic.

Bags

I’ll admit it, I have a bit of a handbag obsession. My collection is ever growing, and somehow I’m always tempted to add just one more. There’s something about a great bag that instantly transforms a look, adding depth, personality, and that interesting final touch.

Right now, I’m drawn to a mix of trending silhouettes and timeless shapes that feel like jewelry for your outfit. They don’t just carry your essentials, they act as an extension of your personal style.

Shoes

When it comes to shoes, I tend to gravitate toward the classics, styles that are tried and true and easy to rely on season after season. A great loafer is a year-round staple for me, effortlessly polished and endlessly versatile.

In the lingering colder moments and as we transition into spring, I lean on boots that ground a look while still feeling refined. And when it’s time for heels, I enjoy having a pair that makes a statement, something bold enough to spark conversation and elevate even the simplest outfit. Here are some that are easy additions to your wardrobe.