32 Zara, Madewell, and H&M Essentials I'm Buying to Look Expensive This Fall

The leaves are falling, the weather is getting cooler, and outfits are starting to implement some layering. This fall, I’ve made it a point to look as expensive as possible. I want to give opulence. As they say, “Look your best to feel your best.” That’s what I’m aiming for as the summer, sadly, comes to a close.

Don’t worry. I’m not going to splurge on a bunch of clothes just for the season; I’m shopping smart. However, that doesn’t mean the pieces I’m picking will look any less elegant. I’m shopping the trifecta of affordable yet elevated sites: Zara, Madewell, and H&M. These three retailers have a tried-and-true formula for many fashion people who are also frugal shoppers. This season, their new arrivals offer an array of luxe, glamorous, and high-quality fashion items that will elevate every outfit you have in mind for fall. From wide-leg jeans and pants to soft cashmere sweaters, these are the pieces you’ll need to implement into your wardrobe to look upscale this fall for a fraction of the price. Keep scrolling to find the pieces that will have you looking expensive all season long.

Shop Zara

ZARA

Suede Leather Jacket

Lightweight suede jackets are so in.

ZARA

ZW Collection Wide Leg Low Rise Jeans

I'm imagining these wide-leg jeans with absolutely everything.

ZARA

Faux Leather Bomber Jacket

This rich, chocolate-brown leather jacket will look stunning over any outfit.

ZARA

Z1975 Combined Denim Midi Skirt

Denim skirts are still my fall go-to.

On days when it's cold in the mornings and hot in the afternoon, this top will save you a trip back home to change.

ZARA

Plain Knit Polo Sweater

A knit polo this season is the perfect versatile top for fall.

ZARA

Zw Collection Water Repellent Short Trench Coat

This is simple and stylish for cold, rainy days.

ZARA

Open Back Tie Blazer

A blazer to throw on over a basic T-shirt and jeans is a classic look, and this one has a tie detail in the back for added pizzazz.

This top is so chic, simple, and versatile.

A classic, pointed-toe shoe will be a forever fall trend.

ZARA

Leather Kitten Heel Shoes

Kitten heels this season will still be trending.

ZARA

Faux Suede Hooded Bomber Jacket

This jacket is on my wish list for fall.

Shop Madewell

Madewell

The Plus Balloon Pants

I predict the balloon-fit silhouette will still prevail this fall.

Madewell

Court Sneakers in White Leather

A reliable pair of sneakers is a must, and these are perfect for fall.

Madewell

Oxford Oversized Button-Up Shirt

Trust me, you need a simple white button-down to layer with sweaters.

Madewell

Low-Slung Baggy Jeans

Low-rise jeans will always be my favorite.

Madewell

Garment-Dyed Shrunken Crewneck Tee

A crisp white tee is a must this season. This one falls on the body just right.

Madewell

Double-Breasted Trench Coat in Plaid

Plaid trench coats are taking over this fall.

Madewell

Waxed Zip-Front Jacket

A simple, chocolate-brown jacket will elevate your look instantly.

Madewell

Slouchy Straight Pants in Drapey Twill

Slouchy pants will be all I wear in the fall.

Madewell

The Mylie Shoulder Bag in Italian Suede

A suede bag this season is a must.

Madewell

The Bradley Lugsole Loafer in Leather

You need a pair of go-to loafers this fall.

Shop H&M

H&M

Fine-Knit Cashmere Sweater

What's simple, soft, and stylish? A cashmere sweater.

A gray pencil skirt this season is all you need.

This is such a sleek shoe for fall.

H&M

Oversized Mohair-Blend Sweater

This rich, green hue can be a great pop of color in your fall 'fits.

A simple ballet flat will still be everywhere this fall.

H&M

Rectangular Shoulder Bag

If you haven't gotten an east-west bag yet, don't worry. This one is affordable and expensive-looking.

Wear this to the office with dress pants or on a night out with jeans.

A simple long-sleeve top with dainty details is always welcome.

H&M

Fine-Knit Collared Sweater

I love a collared sweater these days, and this one just screams rich.

H&M

Alpaca-Blend Waistcoat

This knit-blend vest over a T-shirt paired with jeans is my dream look.

H&M

Rib-Knit Off-the-Shoulder Top

Off-the-shoulder knits are going to be everywhere this season.

When you're over jeans, throw on these pants to elevate your outfits.

Take your basic-white-T-shirt game to the next level.

H&M

Double-Breasted Jacket

This brown suede jacket will be my go-to for colder nights.

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H&M
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