If you're the type to get overzealous about buzzy new-in fashion — like Spring's biggest fashion trends [1], for example — a shopping trip can easily set you back hundreds, even thousands of dollars. But it doesn't have to. Like a good wine, affordable fashion [2] is getting better and better over time as brands from Zara to Mango and H&M continue to deliver ultrachic takes on the season's biggest looks. This makes shopping for the latest trends easier than ever, whether you're planning to buy a few key pieces or go all in on every seasonal hit (both are very respectable choices).
For Spring 2020, trends range from fresh takes on utilitarian clothing [3] to nostalgic dresses and tops á la the '80s and '90s (think voluminous sleeves and smocked silhouettes). Plus, trends that appeal to edgy, minimalist [4], and maximalist tastes — with leather dressing [5] and polka dots [6] being two prime categories we're championing. The best part? All of these trends can easily be worked into your wardrobe and paired with closet staples like t-shirts [7], jeans, and blazers [8], proving to be ultraversatile for the season — which boils down to a lot of bang for your buck.
Without further ado, ahead, discover five major Spring trends you can shop for $50 or less, including tops [9], pants, dresses [10], and more.
Spring 2020 Trend: Puffy Sleeves
From dresses to tops, show-stopping sleeves were a major hit on designer runways for Spring 2020 with '80s and early '90s influences reigning supreme. When trying this trend out IRL, be sure to balance out the proportion of your sleeves with a slimmer fit on bottom, be it a body-skimming skirt or slim-fit jeans.
Mango Puffed Sleeves Cotton Blouse
Mango Puffed Sleeves Cotton Blouse [12] ($40)
In the Style Plus x Fashion Influx Button Detail Bell Sleeve Bodysuit
In the Style Plus x Fashion Influx Button Detail Bell Sleeve Bodysuit [13] ($48)
H&M Puff-Sleeved Top
H&M Puff-Sleeved Top [14] ($30)
Topshop Ditsy Babydoll Puff Sleeve Dress
Topshop Ditsy Babydoll Puff Sleeve Dress [15] ($45)
Socialite Puff Sleeve Smocked Top
Socialite Puff Sleeve Smocked Top [16] ($35)
Spring 2020 Trend: Leather
Leather came down designer runways in just about every form imaginable: dresses, skirts, and long shorts, plus top-to-toe styling via suits and coordinating shirt-and-trouser sets. When translating this trend to real life, simply go for a single leather piece and work it into your outfit lineup, including closet basics like tees, sweaters, blazers, and jeans. If you're a little more adventurous, try the head-to-toe look, but with minimal pieces with clean lines to ensure a sophisticated effect.
Zara Faux Leather Pants
Zara Faux Leather Pants [17] ($40)
Bershka Faux Leather Blouse With Puffed Sleeves
Bershka Faux Leather Blouse With Puffed Sleeves [18] ($36)
Know One Cares Faux Leather Jogger Pants
Know One Cares Faux Leather Jogger Pants [19] ($45)
Prologue Plus Size Mid-Rise Faux Leather A-Line Midi Skirt
Prologue Plus Size Mid-Rise Faux Leather A-Line Midi Skirt [20] ($30)
Pull&Bear Black Faux Leather Bermuda Shorts
Pull&Bear Black Faux Leather Bermuda Shorts [21] ($36)
Spring 2020 Trend: Smocking
Smocked detailing isn't exactly new, but the look is major for Spring 2020 and comes in the form of cute tops. Whether you're here for a date-night version or a style you can wear to work, this feminine trend comes in fun prints, cool colours, and neutral tones to appeal to every aesthetic.
CODEXMODE Embroidered Smocked Top
CODEXMODE Embroidered Smocked Top [22] ($45)
Storets Handan Square Neck Crop Top
Storets Handan Square Neck Crop Top [23] ($45)
Leith Plus Size Floral Smocked Top
Leith Plus Size Floral Smocked Top [24] ($45)
Express Textured Smocked Square Neck Cami
Express Textured Smocked Square Neck Cami [25] ($24, originally $40)
Kirious Smocked Satin Camisole
Kirious Smocked Satin Camisole [26] ($17, originally $29)
Spring 2020 Trend: Utility
Utilitarian clothing never seems to fade away, but each season designers give the look a fresh feel. For Spring 2020, the modern update is all about minimal and tailored pieces as well as styles that feature drawstrings and ruched detailing for a sportier twist in short, jumpsuit, and trouser form.
ASOS DESIGN Denim Belted Utility Shacket
ASOS DESIGN Denim Belted Utility Shacket [27] ($19, originally $56)
POPSUGAR Utility Paperbag Pants
POPSUGAR Utility Paperbag Pants [28] ($25, originally $50)
Ava & Viv Plus Size Short Sleeve V Neck Utility Jumpsuit
Ava & Viv Plus Size Short Sleeve V Neck Utility Jumpsuit [29] ($40)
Choosy Suki Crop Top
Choosy Suki Crop Top [30] ($25, originally $50)
Missguided Utility Shacket
Missguided Utility Shacket [31] ($40)
Spring 2020 Trend: Polka Dots
Polka dots are about as groundbreaking as florals for Spring, but that didn't stop designers from showing them en masse throughout fashion month. For Spring 2020, take your spots in a modern direction, whether it's with an oversized motif, a so-now silhouette like a puff-sleeve dress, or styled head-to-toe with trendy accessories.
Forever 21 Polka Dot Print Top
Forever 21 Polka Dot Print Top [32] ($19, originally $28)
Daisy Street Cigarette Pants
Daisy Street Cigarette Pants [33] ($40)
Old Navy Patterned Plus-Size Midi Skirt
Old Navy Patterned Plus-Size Midi Skirt [34] ($33)
Urban Outfitters Ryan Smocked Square Neck Top
Urban Outfitters Ryan Smocked Square Neck Top [35] ($44)
New Look Petite Poplin Belted Smock Dress
New Look Petite Poplin Belted Smock Dress [36] ($44)