Every August, I like to give my closet a serious pick-me-up. After months of traveling and summer fun, it’s nice to take a pause and reevaluate what’s missing in my rotation, especially as my schedule slows ahead of a hunkered-down fall season.
Elevated basics are a foolproof starting point, and Target has them in spades—with price points that won’t break my budget. I sifted through hundreds of popular styles and new releases to curate a haul that’ll revive my wardrobe, including now-$13 jeans, comfy flats, and more versatile staples I’ll be wearing for months.
Keep scrolling through to shop my 10 top picks, all of which are priced under $40.
Elevated Basics Under $40 at Target
- Wild Fable Mid-Rise ’90s Relaxed Jeans, $13 (was $28)
- Universal Thread Button-Down Cardigan, $32
- A New Day Mid-Rise Regular Fit Textured Pull-On Pants, $30
- A New Day Ruched Asymmetrical Top, $25
- Universal Thread Medium Wash Denim Circle Maxi Skirt, $36
- Auden Cozy Ribbed Pullover, $25
- Wild Fable Flutter Cap Sleeve Maxi A-Line Dress, $35
- A New Day Claire Knit Washable Ballet Flats, $20
- Wild Fable Faux Leather Bomber Jacket, $24 (was $40)
- Universal Thread Collegiate Tote Bag, $20
Wild Fable Mid-Rise ’90s Relaxed Jeans
Target
Wild Fable’s Mid-Rise ‘90s Relaxed Jeans come with rave reviews from Target shoppers, so they’re worth snagging while they’re on sale for as little as $13. They have a straight-leg, roomy silhouette, which one petite reviewer likens to a “cross between a barrel and a dad jean.” Others agree they’re comfortable for all-day wear and have a universally flattering fit, with one person noting that they “feel like higher quality denim,” noting that the mid-rise waist hits at the perfect spot.
Universal Thread Button-Down Cardigan
Target
It’s not sweater weather yet, but a trusty cardigan is a must-have under the blasting AC. This new style is cute and cozy to keep on hand thanks to its long sleeves, button-down crew neckline, and 100 percent cotton knit. I’m eyeing the adorable green striped option, though you can also grab it in chic solid colors like cream, light blue, black, or warm brown.
A New Day Mid-Rise Regular Fit Textured Pull-On Pants
Target
Elevated-looking pants that secretly feel like pajamas are basically the backbone of my wardrobe, and this pair from A New Day is slated to be the newest addition to my collection. It features a comfy elastic waistband, straight legs, and a breezy, textural fabric that seamlessly hides wrinkles—perfect for travel days. A fan said they “feel and look expensive,” adding that they’re easy to dress up or down. Another agreed, raving that they’re “stretchy and comfortable” and a “great staple to your wardrobe.”
A New Day Ruched Asymmetrical Top
Target
Another new release I’m grabbing is this asymmetrical top that comes in three gorgeous color options. It’s designed with a stretchy jersey material that feels like a T-shirt while looking like a blouse, and its drapey ruching will look so flattering paired with weekend jeans or workday trousers. Plus, it’s an effortless top for dinners out or more elegant occasions, especially teamed with shiny jewelry and dainty kitten heels.
Keep scrolling through to shop more Target fashion pieces I’m shopping for under $40.
Universal Thread Medium Wash Denim Circle Maxi Skirt
Target
Auden Cozy Ribbed Pullover
Target
Wild Fable Flutter Cap Sleeve Maxi A-Line Dress
Target
A New Day Claire Knit Washable Ballet Flats
Target
Wild Fable Faux Leather Bomber Jacket
Target
Universal Thread Collegiate Tote Bag
Target
