These Forever Pieces Only Look Expensive – 25 Timeless Picks Under $130

After writing The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald spent the better part of a decade writing articles for Esquire magazine. In one of his most famous essays, Breakinghe wrote, “The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposing ideas in the mind at the same time, and still retain the ability to function. One should, for example, be able to see that things are hopeless and yet be determined to make them different.”

This is an idea that’s been on my mind for the past few months, especially when it comes to my own consumption. In a world of fast fashion and quantity over quality, it can be incredibly difficult, even hopeless, to find thoughtfully made, sustainable clothing without spending a fortune. But I’ve always disagreed with the idea that price and quality are inextricably linked. Sustainable fashion doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg, you know? (I mean, the best t-shirts I’ve ever worn are made from all-natural fabrics, and they’re only $6 at Target!)

So today, I’m sharing 25 timeless pieces—all under $130—that can stand up to the wear and tear of everyday life. (As I’ve learned, it’s a lot easier to solve the consumer problem when you don’t need (to consume! If corporations won’t solve the problem, we can solve it ourselves. Thanks for the idea, Mr. Fitzgerald.) ANYWAY. Are you ready to look like a million bucks without spending a million bucks?

Knitted wrap coat, $104.30

Every time I wear a wool coat on a plane, I get compliments on how professional I am. The reality? I have dark circles under my eyes, I’m exhausted, and I’m wearing a socially acceptable cover-up in public. This version comes in black and beige, has a removable belt, and is available in sizes XXS to 3XL. You’ll look like a million bucks while still feeling like you’re in bed.

Square Oxford, $88

Say goodbye to spread boobs. The boxy fit of this button-down shirt is casual and chic, with plenty of room for all your assets. Wear it with trousers for the office, or pair it with simple chinos and sneakers for a model-ready look off-duty.

Khaki Wide Leg Ankle Pants, $39

In all honesty: Gap is quickly replacing Madewell as my go-to destination for high-quality pieces made with thoughtful materials. Case in point: These $39 pants are made from regenerated cotton, are incredibly flattering on all body types (check out the size 14 on the site—she’s fabulous!), and—to reiterate—are only THIRTY-NINE DOLLARS.

Braided Leather Belt, $19.50

Belts can often be extremely expensive, but these 100% leather braided beauties won’t break the bank. (P.S. These are just the tip of the iceberg of budget belts. There’s also an extra 20% off orders over $100 right now, if you want to stock up on a few different silhouettes.)

Washable Silk High Neck Midi Dress, $129.90

IT’S ELEGANCE. So pretty, so regal. (Navy and black are pictured above, but the wine red hue is also a head-turner.) I don’t know many dresses that can take you from wedding to work, but this one does the trick! Pull out an electric dress on Saturday night, throw it in the washing machine on Sunday afternoon, and pair it with an oversized crewneck sweater for an office-ready outfit on Monday morning.

Teddie Cotton Sweater, $29.50

If you’re missing the old-school J. Crew sweaters of the early 2000s, you’re in for a treat: HERE THEY ARE! This lightweight crewneck sweater boasts near-perfect reviews, a 100% cotton construction, and a silhouette that’s easy to dress up or down. (Did I mention it comes in 10 different colors and is available in sizes XXS to 3X?)

Berkeley Fanny Pack, $117.60

The look and quality of the iconic Clare V Grande Fanny at just a third of the price? You can, thanks to this 100% leather belt bag from our friends at ABLE. (Added bonus: this one is actually an inch wider, giving you even more storage space for your daily essentials!)

Tailored linen-blend pants, $90

These lightweight linen pants can take you from work to the weekend. They’re stylish, casual, and perfect for wearing during the warmer months. They’re true pajama pants that you can wear outside. You’ll be the most stylish person in the grocery store, guaranteed. (They’re also available in sizes 23-37!)

All-Day Heeled Mule, $99

You can’t travel faster than the speed of light. An object at rest stays at rest. And every time Emily posts a picture of herself wearing those Nisolo mules, our DMs are flooded with questions about them—it’s just some laws of the universe. I’ve had my All Day mules since 2019 and they’ve only gotten better with age, conforming to my feet and developing the prettiest patina. $99 is a steal for a shoe THIS well-made. (They also live up to their name—you can truly wear them all day.)

Linen Fit and Flare Midi Dress, $79.90

Sometimes a simple dress is all you need! I love the square neckline, adjustable straps, pockets, 100% linen construction, and cinched waist. You’ll be wearing this dress over and over again in the warmer months for years to come, guaranteed. (PS: the white version is lined!)

Patch Pocket Shorts, $23.99

Okay, I’ll take it back: Madewell is still going strong. I love the clean lines and cut of these shorts, and the patch pockets make them look way more polished than their $23.99 price tag. (Pro tip: If you love the cut and fit of Anthropologie’s Colette bottoms, you’ll also love Madewell’s Emmett pieces.)

Heritage Barn Jacket, $59.99

A weather-resistant 100% waxed cotton twill body. A cheerful olive hue. A timeless corduroy collar. Nothing says “I have my shit in order, but I’m not very demanding about it!” like a well-fitting barn coat. (Eagle-eyed readers may recall that I reviewed and recommended this coat last year in a Link Up post, albeit at a much higher price point – it is SO worth it.)

Set of two open hair clips, $18

Sometimes it’s the smallest details that make the biggest impression. Swap out your bobby pin (or hair tie, for my fine-haired friends) for a modern, graphic clip: it’ll look polished and intentional, even for those who don’t have a lot of time to dedicate to their hair every morning.

Colette long pants, $130

The internet’s favorite pants are now available in a size large, and DID NOBODY TELL ME? They also have a slightly flared bottom, which makes your legs look extra long. I’ve long struggled to find wide-leg work pants that don’t pinch your hips and thighs, but these tick all the boxes and more. (They come in sizes 23-34, and in big, petite, and tall, to boot!)

Shaker Stitch Cardigan, $21.99

Sleek, simple, and refined. Throw a classic cardigan over your shoulders to protect yourself from the restaurant chill now; indulge in a cool, studied, and professorial look. (Added bonus: you can pay for that restaurant meal with the money you saved!)

Handwoven Italian leather bag, $129.90

In October 2023, I treated myself to this $485 Clare V handbag to celebrate my 32nd birthday. Do I love it? Yes! But would I rather have a handbag with the exact same dimensions, almost identical construction, and $355 more in my bank account right now? SURELY.

Fit and Flare Dress, $30

REVIEWS! How stunning do these regular women look in this dress? It’s the perfect dress to wear anytime: add a cardigan for church, throw on some sneakers for the farmers market, pair it with sandals and statement earrings for vacation.

Barrel Utility Pants, $98

Em bought these subtle straight-leg pants last month, and I mistook them for a MUCH more expensive brand. They’re more comfortable than jeans, and the cotton twill looks polished and chic. (You can watch Em’s video review here to see the pants in motion!)

Flat ballerinas, $98

Spoiler alert: Mary Jane flats are hot. (Cute! But still hot.) For that reason, DO NOT spend $250 on a pair of Loeffler Randall flats. Don’t spend $180 on Alohas! These pretty flats are just as well-made—100% leather lining and upper—with charming proportions for a fraction of the price. (A year from now, you’ll be glad you kept $152 in your pocket. I promise.) And if you’re more of a mule person, Gretchen owns and loves this tried-and-true heelless version!

Dropped Waist Midi Dress, $120

If you told me this dress cost $600, I would TOTALLY believe you. The drop waist! The silhouette! The back!!! (The strap is removable, by the way.) It’s so classic and refined without feeling forced or contrived – WRECKS.

Knitted vest, $130

Are you speaking on a panel as an authority in your field? Do you run your own business? Do you simply have good taste? Are you one of the lucky few who can In fact Do you wake up like this? That’s what people will think when you walk into the house wearing a smart cardigan, like this one. (And it’s 100% cotton from Boden, so you know it’s going to last!)

Ivory Polka Dot Button-Down Shirt, $98

Want to make a lasting impression? Swap out your white tee for this simple, lightweight top made entirely of organic cotton. (The subtle Swiss polka dot print really gives it that little something extra, don’t you think?)

Organic Cotton Open Mesh T-Shirt, $98

Cool office? Late night beach bonfire? Icy movie theater? No problem. The lightweight weave of this casual sweater is both luxurious and functional. Pair it with bold sunglasses or a pair of chunky earrings for a cool, laid-back look this summer.

New Balance sneakers, $89.99

New Balance is here to stay. And while you could If you prefer a classic grey pair, I much prefer this indigo suede version! Pair them with your outfits like you would a denim jacket or jeans: they’ll add a fresh, unexpected pop of color and texture to any look. You can’t go wrong with adding this shade to any outfit: it’s a true style hack.

Scalloped Edge Shift Dress, $75.49

Over a decade ago, I bought a scalloped hem shift dress from J. Crew that I wore NON-STOP (job interviews, brunches, taco trucks, weddings…I couldn’t get over it!). But life changed, and my go-to dress no longer fit. So imagine my surprise and joy when I found it again, reimagined in 100% linen with the prettiest button-back detailing. I love the sunny yellow shade, but I know I’ll be wearing the tan version for years to come. ADDED TO CART!

Any other favorites? Affordable brands worth checking out? Timeless pieces on sale you’d like to share with the class? Here’s how to build a long-term wardrobe without breaking the budget. See you tomorrow for an awesome edition of Link Up, followed by the PREMIER River House Reveal on Monday! Have a great weekend. xx