The online clothing-shopping sphere has always been vast — but now, perhaps more than ever before, it can feel like the Wild West. There are TikTok trends that expire before you can even add those jelly flip-flops to your cart and a seemingly endless array of new brands that pop up on our feeds. That’s why since the beginning of The Strategist, we’ve always looked inside the closets of tasteful people — stylists, celebrities, people we stalk on Instagram — and tested lots of clothing ourselves. We’ve gone on dogged hunts in pursuit of everything from the best T-shirt to the best sandals and turned up pieces that transcend trends and add up to a wardrobe you can actually enjoy wearing. Here, in our Womenswear 100, we’ve gathered those items in one place.
In making this catalogue, we first went back to the basics, including figuring out which denim is backed by the most discerning denim enthusiasts and what underwear is invisible (but not uncomfortable). From there, we thought about pieces for just about any occasion — going into the office, going on vacation, or even going to a wedding. Then, to round out the list, we cherry-picked things that delighted us, like a colorful mohair-and-wool scarf to throw right over your shoulders and twinkling diamond hoops for less than $200.
Below, you’ll find budget-friendly picks, like a cashmere sweater under $100 and five-for-$10 tank tops, as well as some splurge-worthy pieces — a versatile modern blazer, go-with-everything pull-on pants, and a sturdy-yet-stylish work tote. So whether you’re looking to make your version of a capsule wardrobe or replace your worn-out Chelsea boots, we have something here for you.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.