fashion
Affordable hidden gems do exist
By Stephanie Meraz
•
Published May 30, 2024
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If I’m being honest, I try to avoid looking at Aritzia’s new arrivals or stepping foot in any of the brand’s retail stores simply because I know I’ll end up spending way too much money. Sound familiar? That’s why I made it my mission to shop my favorite elevated minimalist store on a strict budget, because while there are plenty of big-ticket items worth the investment (like my Aritzia Producer blazer that I’ve had for five years), you should never sleep on the hidden gems that are more affordable. I went wild sifting through the dresses, tops, skirts, pants and workout clothes to find 18 Aritzia pieces under $150 that I just couldn’t gatekeep, from a versatile dress to plenty of elegant blouses for special occasions.
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1. Aritzia Babaton Worldly Dress
Aritzia
Mark my words: Drop-waist silhouettes are the next best thing, so don’t wait around to get in on the chic trend. This Babaton dress is regal, effortless and awaiting its debut in Positano, Paris, Mexico City or wherever you’re vacationing next. The crewneck midi dress follows a charming fit-and-flare silhouette and is made with the brand’s contour material at the bodice, known for its super-soft feel and smoothing effect, and 100 percent cotton poplin at the skirt. One Aritzia customer says, “I thought my torso would look very long due to the design; however, it doesn't look weird but [instead] looks very unique and stylish. I loved the dress so much!”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 1
Aritzia
We all know that saying less is more, and I reckon it also pertains to clothing, especially when temperatures rise. This strapless tube top will save you in times of heat. It’s “lux, slimming [and the] perfect strapless moment,” says Aritzia buyer Kelcey L. Others agree, with some noting that they were able to wear it without a strapless bra, thanks to the double-layer fabric. The contour fabric, which is made with a blend of nylon and elastane, is luxe, flattering and feels like a second skin, per the brand.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to 2XL
- Colors: 23
Aritzia
“This is the first thing I’ve ever ordered from this website and if every item they sell fits this well I’ll be a customer for life,” raves Jamie E., a first-time Aritzia customer. “I purchased the navy pinstriped version and it’s so cute and classy, perfect for an office setting and is just the right length to still be kinda sexy. I think I might have to buy every single color now.” From neutrals like white and black to limited-edition specials (hello, red), there are nearly enough color options to get you through a full week. I like that it has a sophisticated high neckline and no sleeves (because who wants to wear sleeves when it’s hot out?), and you can always throw on a pair of tights if you want to make it a little more conservative for the office. While it’s made with the brand’s soft and stretchy—yet still structured—(Re)essential fabric (a blend of recycled materials) a few buyers say that it has little stretch and can fit tight, so I’d suggest peaking at the size chart before buying.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 00 to 12
- Colors: 5
4. Aritzia Contour Flourish Top
Aritzia
Meet the versatile top that you’ll want to wear on repeat. “[It’s] so insanely flattering on me,” says one reviewer. “I was a little wary at first just because I thought it might fit me tight at the armpit, but it fits just right. The ‘sleeve’ details give it an overall elevated look and you can definitely dress this up or down,” she adds. The square-neck tank will look especially flattering if you have big boobs, and the fabric is double-lined and ruched at the sides, so it looks and feels great.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 8
5. Aritzia Golden MoveTech Stride Short
Aritzia
Where have these high-rise shorts been hiding? Lightweight and sweat wicking, these workout shorts are designed to move with you, and yes, there’s a built-in liner that’ll keep you secure and protected from any accidental flashes while you prep for that marathon. “I have slim thighs and usually shorts that float don’t flatter me, but these look great,” writes reviewer Jamie L., who sized up for a comfortable fit. Psst, there’s even a hidden drop pocket inside that can hold your keys, card, Chapstick or some energy gels for a mid-run pick-me-up.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 0 to 12
- Colors: 4
6. Wilfred Canary Satin Camisole
Wilfred
Ask any of my friends and family, and they’ll tell you how much I’ve always adored a good tie-top like this delicate camisole. It has a drapey shape that feels flirty and oh-so romantic. It may not be the most practical option, given you can’t wear a traditional bra underneath, but some sticky boobs or a lace bralette can go a long way. And you can always style it with some relaxed blue jeans (as pictured) if you want to dress it down.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 3
7. Wilfred Terrace Satin Dress
Wilfred
This satin dress may be on the pricier end of my $150 budget, but it’s too good not to include. The blue maxi dress is an understated looker and features a gorgeous V-neck to show off some statement necklaces. It makes a great summer wedding guest dress or anniversary frock. Best of all? It was cut on the bias, which means that the lightweight, glossy satin will effortlessly drape on your body like liquid without a seam or lump to spoil it.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 00 to 12
- Colors: 2
Babaton
My co-workers probably think I sound like a broken record at this point, but I l-o-v-e anything with a boatneck. Exhibit A: Babaton’s reputation top. It incorporates a timeless construction that I can see myself looking back on in 30 years and thinking, I had style. And I’m not the only one who thinks so. Aritizia customer Ashley F. says, “[It’s] super classy, gorgeous and well-fitting. Also, [it’s] not cropped, which most items are at Aritzia, but this sits nicely on the hips [and is] super comfortable and [made with] a good fabric.” Speaking of the fabric, I’m a sucker for anything knit, so this dense, structured material is everything.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 3XS to 2XL
- Colors: 2
Wilfred
If you liked the previous tie-top but want a little more coverage, then you’ll like this satin blouse I found. It has a soft and silky finish that gives it an elevated edge with flouncy ruffle trims at the collar and sleeves, so you’ll have a substantial amount of support for a sleeveless shirt compared to slinky spaghetti straps. I also appreciate the tiny pleats along the boob seams, which will give you more space to fill out the cups. Do note, though, that some buyers with big boobs say the top doesn’t fit well on larger chests.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to 2XL
- Colors: 16
10. Aritzia The Effortless Pant Linen
Aritzia
Aritzia’s Effortless pants are a best-seller for a reason, people. They’re the goes-with-everything type of trousers that boast a tailored-yet-relaxed silhouette and sharp pleating down the legs. They come in three lengths (short, regular and tall) and fabrics like crepette, satin, (Re)essential and this summer-approved linen. “The material is amazing (soft but structured), they’re not see-through at all and they are such a moment,” gushes reviewer Sara K. “I feel like if Sofia Richie shopped Aritzia, these would be her first pick!”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 8
Babaton
Who knew a blouse could be this sexy and chic? “[This is] my new favorite going out top! It’s perfect for dressing up and has a very elegant look to it,” says an Aritzia customer. I think that has a little something to do with the sweeping one-shoulder design and pleated material. “The fabric feels quite nice, it seems to be a higher quality polyester,” they add. While many of the brand’s blouses are cropped, this full-length, slim fit feels like a breath of fresh air.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 4
I must confess, I own this sweatshirt and wear it every single day. Seriously, it’s the first thing I throw on when I wake up and the last thing I wear right before bed. A classic crewneck, this oversize sweatshirt has dropped shoulders and a loose fit that’ll sit relaxed on your body. (I had to purchase the matching sweatpants, of course.) Not to mention, it’s made with Aritzia’s famed Cozy Fleece fabric, which has a midweight and plush feel that you won’t want to take off…trust me.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 4
13. Wilfred Crowd Satin Blouse
Wilfred
Remember that bias cut I previously talked about? Well, you can find it in this silky, luxe blouse. Think of it as your elevated tank top, designed with all the makings of your basic tank, like thick straps and a straight silhouette, just finished in a drapey satin fabric and cowl neck. “Absolutely a 5/5 blouse,” raves Crystal H. “Perfect for work with a blazer or semi-casual jeans day. Now I want to order the black blouse. Darn you, Aritzia!!” Oh, and did I mention that it’s fully lined?
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 3
14. Sunday Best Bubbly Poplin Skirt
Sunday Best
Another trend we’ll be seeing more of? Bubbly skirts like this Aritzia stunner. It’s regal, dramatic and classy, made with a cotton poplin that’s flouncy, breathable, lightweight and soft to the touch. Aritzia reviewer Cindy P. says, “I think this skirt will be a great summer alternative to a mini. The cotton is light, and the bubble of the poplin keeps it open around the legs (not falling against them), so it sort of feels like it's only touching you at the waist. Also, it seems like it's not going to really hold wrinkles.” I’m all for an elastic waistband that’ll stretch and give throughout the day.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 3
Babaton
Here’s a more elevated tube top that passes all my tests and let me tell you why. First, it’s chic as hell, featuring a fold-over design that adds some volume to your bust. It also has darts at the bodice that give it a soft structure that shapes your frame nicely. It’s also made with recycled materials that have, per the brand, been responsibly sourced and produced. Buyers say that the sizing can be off, veering too big on people with small boobs and vice versa, so I suggest referring to the size chart and your bust size for the best fit.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 00 to 12
- Colors: 9
16. Babaton Archive Poplin Shirt
Babaton
Button-down shirts are a staple in any capsule wardrobe, so it never hurts to add another to the rotation, especially when it’s as well-crafted as this Aritzia classic. With adjustable sleeve tabs and an airy cotton material, it features an oversize fit that’ll be essential come summer, and the dropped shoulders add to its cool factor. I’m not the only one gushing over it, either. Jackie G. says, “[I] love the pinstripes, the roomy but not too oversized fit and the poplin fabric. Really great shirt for summer—something about poplin makes it wearable in hot weather!”
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to XL
- Colors: 2
Wilfred
This vest means business…but only the fashionable, fun kind, of course. “I just bought this vest, and the quality is SO nice! The inside is lined with satin,” notes a reviewer, who ordered a size 0 and has a 26-inch waist, 32B cup size and usually wears an XS or S at Aritzia. The slim, buttoned vest features a V-neck that feels more relaxed compared to vests with higher necklines, and it’s made with 100 percent linen that’s lightweight, breathable and sourced from an Italian mill.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 00 to 12
- Colors: 3
18. Denim Forum The '80s Comfy Denim Shirt
Denim Forum
The Canadian tuxedo is having a moment, and not just among the French during Paris Fashion Week. Mais non. After assessing all the Coachella festival looks during my time in Indio last month, I couldn’t help but notice that denim of all sorts was everywhere, so this ‘80s-inspired long-sleeve is at the top of my wish list. It’s relaxed, lightweight and entirely classic with button-closure cuffs, a patch pocket and rounded hem. Not to mention, it’s made with a premium cotton denim that gets better over time.
Fast Facts
- Size Range: 2XS to 2XL
- Colors: 10
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Stephanie Meraz
Associate Fashion Commerce Editor
Stephanie is a natural savant in the fashion, beauty, and dating & relationships beats. She graduated with a bachelor of arts at the University of San Diego, where she majored...
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