Fake The Fashion Must-Haves Of Spring With These Budget-Friendly Buys
Though it still may not feel like it, spring has sprung and it’s finally time to retire those chunky knits and all-weather boots and break out the warm-weather wear.
It seems like it’s been forever since we last went outside without a jacket (it has), and we’re more than ready to do a little shopping to honor the season’s arrival.
Instead of stocking up on summer staples like tanks and tees, nab a few on-trend statement pieces to keep you going. If you want to work within your budget, you have to make your budget work for you.
We already know you won't be able to say "no" to those rounded summer sunnies or gladiator sandals -- they're back! -- so here's a tip: don't. You don't have to splurge on every style you see.
No matter if you're rent-poor or just semi-poor (it's OK, we feel you), there's a style for every budget.
Rounded wayfarers
Oversized sunglasses enjoyed their time in the spotlight — but now it’s all about unique shapes and fun, funky colors.
Buy it (from left to right):
Monki "Blake" sunglasses, $11; Madewell "Indio" tortoiseshell sunglasses, $55; Quattrocentro "Twiggy" sunglasses, $114
Bucket bags
Made covetable by designer Mansur Gavriel last season, the bucket bag remains super on-trend. Stand out from the crowd with a brightly-hued version.
Buy it:
Candie’s Mini Bucket bag, $20; Steve Madden "BGemmaa" bucket bag, $88; Rebecca Minkoff "Mini Fiona" bucket bag, $225
Gladiator sandals
Check any fashion blogger’s feed and you’ll find them wearing these sexy, Grecian-inspired sandals. Pro tip: The strappier the shoe, the better the #gram.
Buy it:
Forever 21 faux suede gladiator, $28; Stuart Weitzman "Caesar" gladiator, $58; Zara leather gladiator, $159
Wide-leg jeans
Skinnies are the "it" jean no more. This season, designers were all about 70s-inspired flares. Get your inner flower child on with wide-legged pairs in high-waisted cuts.
Buy it:
American Eagle "Artist" jean, $45; Topshop Moto "Miller" flared jeans, $75; rag&bone/JEAN "Justine" high-rise bell, $245
Relaxed trenchcoats
Structure can be great, but in the springtime, you want your threads to be airy and breathable.
These jackets will keep you warm, without looking too overdone. Plus, you won't feel like you're roasting in the heat of the summer sun during a midday rain storm.
Buy it:
Apricot Trench Coat, $39; Textured, Belted Trench, $68; MANGO flowy trench, $150
Platform sandals
Getting high has never looked better.
Buy it:
"Into The Woods" floral chunky heels, $30; Steve Madden "Livvie" sandal, $100; Jeffrey Campbell "Foxy" platform, $118
