Now that Labor Day has passed and the chilly rain showers have moved in, I’m feeling nostalgic about summer. This summer has been a whirlwind of travel, patio drinks, fun events and long strolls through the city. And, nothing makes me happier than having a fun summer wardrobe to enjoy it all in. Even better? If that wardrobe doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. As a nod to some of my recent fabulously frugal finds, here are a few of my favorite purchases from summer 2011! Note: All were purchased for under $45!
Banana Republic Dress, $30
During a recent wander through the Copley Place Mall, I stumbled upon this incredibly discounted Banana Republic dress. Proving that stylish bargains can be found outside of the outlets, this dress adores being cinched in with a brown or beige leather belt, while adorned with pearls and nude heels.
Ann Taylor Outlet Top, $20
A little stripe goes a long way with this preppy v-neck t-shirt. Purchased at the Wrentham Outlets, I’ve tucked this t-shirt into a navy skirt, worn it with skinny jeans and red wedge heels, all while adding some interesting jewelry to keep the look fresh.
Banana Republic Factory Outlet Dress, $40
How cute is this dress for $40!? Far too cute for that price to be believable! Scooped up during my Independence Day weekend in Conway, NH, this factory outlet find loves nude heels, gold hoops and bangles by night, but can hang during the daytime with strappy flats and an oversized chestnut leather handbag.
Nine West Outlet Nude Sandals, $35
Size matters when it comes to my shoes. I’ve never been able to manage super high heels, so an inch is magnifique. Plus, if you invest in a classic pair of heels that are – gasp – comfortable, you’ll live in them. These chic heels were scooped up at the Wrentham Outlets.
Red Wedges from Nine West Outlet, $35
What started as a fun buy one, get one at 50% off impulse buy at Nine West, turned out to be quite useful. Higher than the average heels I normally wear, the wedge makes these shoes surprisingly comfortable. They also work wonderfully with the many navy dresses and aforementioned blue and white t-shirt that I own.
Assorted Ann Taylor Loft Outlet and Talbots Outlet Cardigans, $10-$15 each
Oh, colorful cardigans! Without you, I’d be *f r o z e n* everyday at work. At $10-$15 a pop, stocking up on versatile cardigans are one of my best professional wardrobe tips. Fashionable, yet functional….and did I mention, affordable? These cardigans were purchased at both Wrentham Outlets and Settlers’ Green in Conway, NH.
Ann Taylor Loft Necklace, $34 and J.Crew Factory Outlet Cuff Bracelet, $15
Speaking of accessories, there’s nothing like finding a pretty new bauble to breathe new life into your everyday wardrobe. I didn’t hesitate recently when I saw the classic gold chain at Ann Taylor Loft, nor did I believe my eyes when I saw the fab J.Crew cuff at the Wrentham Outlets. Now, I find myself wearing them both more often than I’d care to admit!
Urban Outfitters Watch, $34
Last, but certainly not least, is my absolute favorite new accessory from Urban Outfitters. After one glance at the dual watch faces at the Urban Outfitters in the Natick Collection, I fell….hard. And, every time I wear black with gold jewelry (which is a lot), you’ll see this unique watch on my wrist. The best part? This fabulously frugal find is still available online on the Urban Outfitters website.
What was your favorite new wardrobe find for summer 2011?