I Shop for a Living—44 Nordstrom, Zara, and J.Crew Items That Are Actually Worth Your Money
As Who What Wear’s associate shopping director, it’s my job (and pleasure) to point you in the direction of all the chicest, of-the-moment pieces that are worthy of your wardrobe and wallet. Right about now, as we head into August, I’m looking at pieces that will add a fresh injection of energy to my looks and see me through the rest of the season and into early fall seamlessly.
Below, I’m sharing some of my favorite pieces that have grabbed my attention from Nordstrom, Zara, and J.Crew this week. From of-the-moment lace shorts to cool capris and statement long necklaces, these picks below will have you looking on-trend this season—and beyond.
Nordstrom
Princess Polly
Serenitia Relaxed Straight Leg Jeans
The perfect denim silhouette.
Princess Polly
Top of Mind Polka Dot Mesh Maxi Dress
Polka-dot is the It print of summer 2025.
Steve Madden
Pipa Ballet Flat
I own these in dark brown suede and can’t wait to get them in black. They’re so chic and comfortable.
Reformation
Isla Satin Camisole
Style with straight-leg jeans and kitten heels for your next evening out.
EDIKTED
Sarafina Capri Pants
Capri pants are perfect for summer-to-fall dressing.
Steve Madden
Cary Heeled Sandal
Madewell
The Mylie Suede Shoulder Bag
Guaranteed you’ll be wearing this all fall.
Style with its matching skirt below or a pair of jeans.
MANGO
Stripe Cotton Blend Cardigan
Scoop this up while it’s on sale.
Éliou
Ollie Multipendant Cord Necklace
The fashion set can’t get enough of fish necklaces right now.
LIONESS
Twilight Stripe Low Rise Nylon Shorts
Polo Ralph Lauren
Denim Barn Jacket
BP.
Eyelet Trim Cotton Shorts
Lace-trimmed shorts are having a major moment. Style with an oversize tee throughout summer and a cozy sweater as we head into early fall.
ASTR the Label
Saige Mixed Button Short Sleeve Linen Blend Jacket
I’ll be wearing this to the office next week.
Zara
ZARA
Printed Polka Dot Midi Dress
This blue polka-dot dress is at the top of my Zara cart!
ZARA
Split Leather Flat Toe Loop Sandals
These could pass for designer.
ZARA
Zw Collection Lace Camisole Top
I recently tried this on, and it’s even more gorgeous in person.
ZARA
Satin Effect Lace Skirt Zw Collection
Guaranteed you’ll be wearing this black lace skirt all the way up to the holiday season.
ZARA
Slub Striped Cotton T-Shirt
Give your Breton tee a welcome update.
ZARA
Embroidered Beaded Strappy Top
ZARA
Metallic Thread Knit Polo Top
Love adding a little sparkle to my everyday look.
ZARA
Leather Cord Stone Necklace
The most popular jewelry trend of the season? Long pendant necklaces.
ZARA
Zw Collection Halter Polka Dot Dress
Timeless yet trend-forward.
ZARA
Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
Ooo, love the sporty detailing on this white tee.
ZARA
Tulle Jumpsuit With Embroidery and Beads
Ready for compliments in this Chloé-inspired jumpsuit?
ZARA
Zw Collection Button-Up Jacket
Once the temps start to cool, this is the first jacket I’ll be wearing.
J.Crew
Rouje X J.crew
Swoon Slip Dress in Polka Dot
jcrew
Essential Wide-Leg Pant in Textured Satin
This color feels so fresh.
jcrew
Scallop-Trim Cardigan Top
A chic cardi is exactly what you need from summer to fall.
jcrew
Crewneck T-Shirt in Stripe
A striped knit top you’ll be reaching for on repeat.
jcrew
Quinn Handwoven Ballet Flats in Metallic Leather
Wear with jeans and dresses alike.
jcrew
New Soleil Pant in Linen
Definitely needing J.Crew’s New Soleil Linen Pants in navy.
jcrew
Étienne Oversized Shirt in Lightweight Oxford
You won’t regret this purchase.
jcrew
Cap-Sleeve Lace-Trim Top in Cotton Voile
The prettiest blouse for lazy summer days.
jcrew
Eyelet Short in Linen-Cotton Blend
I’m surprised these haven’t sold out yet.
jcrew
Relaxed Stipe T-Shirt
jcrew
Essential Cutaway Vest Top in Textured Satin
Perfect for a back-to-work look.
jcrew
Rouje X J.crew Poème Skirt
jcrew
Berkeley Small Shoulder Bag in Suede
