Ever since I started as a shopping editor, my mother has outsourced all her shopping to me. This year, I expect it to be no different. Today, over breakfast, she excitedly asked me for a New Year’s closet refresh. Of course, I said yes. What was supposed to be just breakfast turned into a shopping spree, and we logged on to Nordstrom’s website and went to work.
In our scrolling, we stayed cost-conscious, with most of our final picks coming in under $100. The goal was a chic Nordstrom closet refresh on a budget. This winter, I’ve spotted a chic cardigan trend that features covered buttons. So naturally, I convinced my 56-year-old that it’s a must-have. And what looks fabulous with a cute cardigan? Cigarette jeans—the once-dated denim trend that is quickly regaining popularity within the fashion set.
Here are seven gorgeous, affordable Nordstrom finds perfect for upgrading your wardrobe in 2026. You’ll find standout sweaters, elevated basics (looking at you, V-neck shirts), and the best ballet flats.
Half-Zip Sweater

My Pick

MANGO
Rizin Rib Half Zip Sweater
Ever since the Chanel Métiers d’art 2026 in New York, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect half-zip sweater. This one will do.
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Faherty
Jackson Quarter-Zip Organic Cotton Blend Pullover

Brooklyn Industries
Half Zip Sweater
Black Ballet Flats

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
My Pick

Nordstrom
Maddox Ballet Flat
Shh—these under-$100 ballet flats look awfully close to designer flats.
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Sam Edelman
Alie Ballet Flat

SARTO by Franco Sarto
Dovie Flexa Flat

Madewell
The Greta Ballet Flat
Cigarette Jeans

My Pick

Levi’s
Wedgie Straight Leg Jeans
Cigarette jeans are the closest I can get to skinny jeans. The straight-leg silhouette looks best with elevated basics like a classic white T-shirt or roll-neck sweater.
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Madewell
The Longline Straight Leg Jeans

Madewell
The Longline Straight Jeans

Madewell
The Longline Straight Leg Jeans
Covered-Button Cardigan

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
My Pick

MANGO
Covered Button Crewneck Cardigan
A covered-button cardigan is one of those subtle trends that, once you notice, it’s all you can see. My mom and I both agree that this gray crewneck one from Mango makes the perfect addition to a transitional wardrobe.
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Madewell
Pointelle Knit Peplum Cotton Cardigan

525 America
Covered Button Cardigan

Madewell
Kensington Cardigan
Cropped Jacket

My Pick

MANGO
Wool Blend Crop Jacket
Another chic transitional piece for your winter-to-spring wardrobe? A cropped jacket, which is perfect to wear with a pair of wide-leg trousers or jeans. It looks especially cool paired with an oversize button-down.
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Favorite Daughter
The Annabel Crop Wool Blend Jacket

Madewell
Boxy Crop Suede Jacket

Vince Camuto
Cropped Water Resistant Jacket
V-Neck Shirt

(Image credit: Getty Images/Christian Vierig )
My Pick

Topshop
V-Neck Raglan Sleeve Long Sleeve Rib Knit Top
Just a few years ago, this neckline was considered dated, but now, it is an instant clue that you follow fashion. If you’re looking to level up your basics, V-necks are the way to go.
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Free People
Nina V-Neck Cotton T-Shirt

Nordstrom
Everyday V-Neck Pima Cotton Blend T-Shirt

Topshop
Double V-Neck Long Sleeve Stretch Cotton Rib Top
Midi Skirts

(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight)
My Pick

Wit & Wisdom
Smocked Waist Bubble Hem Midi Skirt
IMO, the midi skirt is a widely underrated winter piece. Wear with a pair of fleece-lined tights, knee-high boots, and a chic pullover, and you’re ready to brave the cold.
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Damson Madder
Ava Ruffle Trim Midi Skirt

Caslon
Stretch Cotton Poplin Midi Skirt

Seasalt Cornwall
Mevagissey Organic Cotton Midi Skirt
