29 Expensive-Looking H&M Basics Under $50

last updated 14 September 2022

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All hail H&M. Honestly, as a fashion editor, I look at a lot of new-in products every day across high-street and luxury fashion. And after all these years, the affordable hero still manages to pull it out of the bag with some of my favorite wardrobe pieces each season. The H&M design team just seems to know exactly what I want to wear—which right now is elevated capsule pieces that make me look like I have a much bigger budget than I actually do. And the latest new-in drop serves exactly that purpose.

It’s full of simple, minimalist wardrobe basics with a stylish twist. Think draped jersey dresses, ribbed tops with modern sweetheart necklines, and expensive-looking suits with just the right amount of slouch that could easily pass as designer, all in a crisp palette of creams, greys, and monochrome shades. Not to mention, all the best pieces come in under $50.

Of course, if you’re looking for wardrobe staples like these with more longevity and premium fabrics, and you’re in a position to invest more, it’s always worth doing so. But as we head into this strange trans-seasonal time, if you’re looking for affordable pieces to upgrade your workwear wardrobe or refresh your date-night outfits, I recommend scrolling down to see this edit for a guaranteed confidence boost. My one piece of advice? Don’t hang around on the pieces you fall for. We all know how fast a cult H&M piece can sell out.

Shop Expensive-Looking H&M Basics

H&M

Fitted Jersey Dress

Note the subtle ruching on this dress.

H&M

Shacket

Creme-hued pieces always look luxe.

H&M

Fitted Top

Could have sworn this was Khaite.

H&M

High-Waist Dress Pants

Trousers are a perennial favorite.

H&M

Collared Rib-Knit Dress

So chic.

H&M

Oversized Single-Breasted Jacket

A simple black blazer never fails to look posh.

H&M

Rib-Knit Tank Top

Ribbed knit tanks will always be a luxe basic in my mind.

H&M

Wide-Leg Pants

Another great trouser!

H&M

Heeled Sandals

Never underestimate how luxe a pair of slingback heels can look.

H&M

Oversized Shirt Dress

The perfect addition to your work wardrobe.

H&M

Double-Breasted Jacket

Peak fall energy.

H&M

Long-Sleeved Jersey Top

You'll wear this with everything.

H&M

Wide-Leg Pants

Can you tell we love trousers?

H&M

Pointed Flats

Ballet flats will be big this fall, so this pair is the perfect purchase.

H&M

Oversized Rib-Knit Sweater

So cozy.

H&M

Oversized Oxford Shirt

A crisp oxford shirt will always be a must-have in our books.

H&M

Boxy T-Shirt

Ideal for layering.

H&M

Narrow Belt

Belts can make any outfit look more expensive.

H&M

Tailored Jersey Pants

Pinstripe pants? Don't mind if we do.

H&M

Chelsea Boots

Chelsea boots are always a great buy.

H&M

Rib-Knit Bodycon Dress

The ribbed detail on this dress screams "rich."

H&M

Oversized Single-Breasted Jacket

Love, love, love.

H&M

V-Neck Blouse

Nothing beats a satin blouse.

H&M

Pleated Skirt

It's giving Miu Miu, but for less money.

H&M

Oversized Sweater

Now all you need is a cozy cottage to go with this jumper.

H&M

Vintage Straight High Jeans

A great pair of jeans will have you feeling like a million bucks.

H&M

Rib-Knit Sweater

Benton stripes will always be chic.

H&M

Wide-Cut Satin Pants

Just imagine how comfy these trousers will be on you.

H&M

Quilted Shoulder Bag

Designer bags move to the left.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK.

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Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily landed at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she has styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.