My Fall Shopping Budget Is $250 & Here’s Exactly What I’m Buying

As a fashion editor, I essentially shop for a living. Consequently, I’ve wasted far too much cash on fleeting trends and splurging on must-have pieces that I got bored of after just a few months. So, in an effort to give my bank account a break and be more conscious about how I’m spending my money, I’ve limited my fall shopping budget to just $250.

As someone who tries her hardest to avoid buying fast-fashion pieces, which are usually cheap, chic and very of-the-moment—but are often made using unethical or unsustainable practices—I knew this was going to be a challenge. But I also had parameters: I wanted at least one new handbag (an easy way to update an old favorite ensemble) and one dress I could wear to work with either flats or boots. As for the rest of my budget? It seemed to best to stock up on statement items that would continue to bring me joy as winter's chill is imminent.

And, without further ado, here are the eight pieces that made the cut this fall.

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Tie-Dye T-Shirt

Yes, tie-dye can transition from summer into fall (and maybe even winter). Especially when it comes in dark and stormy colors, like navy, purple or dark green.

Cotton Emporium ($22)

Pearl-Embellished Headband

I’ve finally cracked and joined the pearl headband bandwagon. And, to be honest, I wish I’d joined sooner. Adding a statement headpiece is such an easy way to dress up even the most casual T-shirt and jeans, and I fully plan to stock up on a few more of these hair accessories come winter.

MHDGG ($9)

Snake Print Dress

I’m totally into the whole animal print craze, especially the prints that aren’t leopard. This red, orange and brown snakeskin dress is taking up a fairly large chunk of my budget, but the fact that this pattern could also pass for an argyle makes me confident that I’ll continue to wear it, even after we move on from the jungle-inspired trend.

Warehouse ($83)

Croc-Effect Bag

Charles & Keith is one of my absolute favorite places to shop for relatively inexpensive shoes and bags that look like a million bucks. Seriously, how chic does this triangular cross-body look? Now all that’s left is to decide which color I like best…

Charles & Keith ($49)

Bucket Hat

These ’80s throwbacks are really having a moment and they happen to provide a fun alternative to the felt fedoras we usually see in autumn and beanies in winter. Plus, $16 feels like a totally doable amount for something I may not be so enamored with come spring 2020.

ASOS ($16)

Zebra Sweater

Another animal print stunner (can you tell which current trend is my favorite?). I plan to rock this cozy safari-inspired knit with everything from a black slip skirt to distressed jeans and even sleek dress pants.

H&M ($30)

Rhinestone Earrings

My newest habit? Wearing super-glitzy and glam earrings for day. OK, I guess I can also wear these beauties for special occasions (hello, fall wedding season).

Forever 21 ($10)

Floral Prairie Blouse

The loose sleeves and smocked corset-like fit of this moody floral top are a bit sexier than the billowing prairie dresses we saw everywhere this summer. That means it will be much easier to slip under jackets and coats when the temps dip below 60 degrees.

Good Luck Gem ($35)

Although I can't wait to start incorporating these eight stunners into my outfit rotations, sticking to a budget proved to be more challenging than I expected. Case in point, I technically went $4 over. Guess I'll just have to skip tomorrow's coffee run...

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