I’m Building a Rich-Looking Winter Wardrobe With These Under-$170 Nordstrom Finds
I’ve mastered wealthy dressing, without maxing out my credit card.
A quick glimpse at my cold-weather wardrobe will reveal that I have expensive taste. My quiet luxury-coded closet is defined by sumptuous fabrics, sharp tailoring, and sleek silhouettes. However, what you might not realize is that the majority of my cherished fashion finds are actually quite affordable. I’ve learned to shop for rich-looking pieces that don’t cost a fortune, and this season, Nordstrom’s Early Black Friday sale is helping me to do just that.
From now until Wednesday, November 19, the retailer is offering up to 60 percent off a range of stealth-wealth styles. While perusing Nordstrom’s site, I came across a leather trench coat stitched to perfection, a crisp button-down ideal for layering, and a polished tote bag cut from suede. And the best part of all is that every single item I found falls under $170—so I won’t have to break the bank to look put-together this winter.
Ahead, I’m giving you a sneak peek into my Nordstrom shopping cart. I’ve spent hours researching the best deals so that you don’t have to. Keep scrolling for the ultimate guide to looking like you’ve jumped a tax bracket.
Aside from chocolate brown, cherry red is the most expensive-looking color trend of the season. Give the elegant hue a try with this cozy V-neck sweater.
Marie Claire’s fashion features editor, Emma Childs, recently reported on the rise of military jackets. Sam Edelman’s wool-blend coat gives the utilitarian-inspired trend an elevated treatment with a double-breasted design and charming gold buttons.
There’s something about a satin slip dress that is inherently luxurious. This Open Edit version boasts an asymmetrical hemline for an unexpected twist.
Sam Edelman’s Sylvia boots are equipped with a sturdy block heel that ensures comfort. Invest in these knee-high stompers, and you’ll want to wear them on repeat.
I just found my new favorite work dress. Designed with a sculpted shape and a high neckline, this ladylike number from ASTR the Label is oh-so sophisticated.
Fashion’s obsession with suede bags isn’t poised to end anytime soon. Consider the look for yourself with Mango’s cocoa brown tote.
For dressy occasions, swap your laid-back jeans for a pair of upscale tailored trousers.
Embrace your inner mob wife with a faux fur coat that has “Carmela Soprano” written all over it.
Holiday dressing doesn’t have to be complicated. Go ahead and make things easier by pulling on French Connection’s Emilia dress.
This might seem like a plain old black maxi skirt, but look closely and you’ll notice that it’s decorated with chic pleats.
While I’m a self-proclaimed minimalist, I’ll make an exception for a pair of leopard-print shoes. For this reason, Sam Edelman’s Saige ankle boots rank high on my wish list.
If you haven’t yet heard, ‘80s fashion is making a major comeback. Lean into the retro look with this boxy blazer, anchored in prominent shoulder pads.
My closet is filled to the brim with oversized cardigans, so I’m switching things up with this slim option from Lands' End.
Ask me about my new obsession, and I’ll tell you all about T-strap loafers. For the chilly months ahead, I’ll be styling these buckled flats with warm socks.
Button-down shirts are perfect layering essentials. Whether you pair them alongside sweater vests or cardigans, the styling options are truly endless.
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Lauren K. Tappan is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers trend forecasting and shopping stories, highlighting runway-inspired styles and a blend of emerging and established brands. Prior to joining Marie Claire, she worked as a freelance editor for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE, specializing in e-commerce content and curating seasonal trend reports. Earlier in her career, she worked at Town & Country, developing a strong portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.
Lauren holds a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in journalism from the University of Pennsylvania. While at Penn, she served as editor-in-chief of The Walk, the university's fashion magazine, and completed internships at Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.