5 Summer Fashion Trends You Can Rock on a Tight Budget

Summer is so close you can almost smell it. Whatever your budget, this is the time of year when we’re all craving a wardrobe update.

Being stylish doesn’t need to be pricey, though. We talked to Dianna Barros, Founder of The Budget Babe (a great resource for fashionistas on a budget), about this summer’s hottest fashion trends and how you can rock them without going broke.

White Lace

It is all about the lace this summer, especially eyelet. There’s nothing that looks fresher when the temperatures rise.

“I’m loving the Peter Som for Kohl’s collection – there’s a really cute eyelet lace dress in white or coral,” Barros told us.

Slip-on Sneakers

Not so sure about sneakers in the heat? Think again. This is truly the sneaker of the summer so get yourself a pair.

“Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohl’s also has the “must have” budget friendly slip on sneaker of the season” Barros said.

Pastels

We’re all for bold colors in the summer, but there is nothing as nice as a beautiful pastel. The Spring 2014 runways were full of gorgeous looks in shades of sugared almonds.

Pair a beautiful pastel pleated skirt with a simple black sweater or ivory silk blouse for a feminine yet sleek ensemble.

Barros recommends the online shop No Rest For Bridget, which “has lots of pastel pieces under $50 including mint jeans.”

She also recommended ZARA, Forever 21 and H&M for picking up cute but budget-friendly pastel pieces.

A-Line skirts

Always a classic and especially great for the office in the summer. And even better, you can get them for a good price at so many places.

Look at these cute ones from New York & Company. If you are feeling a little daring (but not for the office), try pairing the skirt with a crop top.

The Shirt Dress

This is such an easy look to attain, and it’s incredibly comfy and cool when it gets sweltering out.As Lucky Magazine Editor in Chief, Eva Chen told Good Morning America, “The shirt dress is tomboyish and sexy at the same time. It’s clean, chic, universally flattering and versatile. Keep it classic for work. Belted at the waist and worn with heels.”

You can find some affordable – and super cute – ones from Forever 21 and Sanctuary.