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

It's all about oversize striped tees and tops right now.

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