The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

BB's Spring 2012 Shopping Checklist


At the start of a new season, I try to take stock of what's in my closet and then make a list of the pieces I'd like to add. It's not foolproof, but it's probably one of the best techniques I've found to help me stick to my budget and not get side-tracked when I head to the mall. Here's a checklist of 10 spring items on my list, what's on yours?

1. Something floral: Nothing says spring like a floral print. This season you've got plenty of options, from retro to futuristic, bold to understated. (AEO Floral Corset Dress $24.99)

2. Pocket blouse: White will go with anything, from cut-off shorts to high-low skirts. Stock up on long sleeve, 3/4 length and sleeveless styles. (H&M Blouse, $24.95. Visit hm.com for store locations)

3. Chambray shirt: If you don't already own one, make sure you get a fitted chambray or denim shirt. These look equally at home with colored jeans and smoker flats or sequin skirts and platforms. (Old Navy Chambray Shirt $29.94)

4. Smoking flats: Slip these on for comfort and style that can take you from the office to the weekend. (Qupid Leopard Flats $29.95)

5. A structured satchel: Small to medium size bags with shape are perfect for grounding your spring looks. Go for a bold pop of color like kelly green or red to really grab attention. (Christian Siriano for Payless "Liam" Crossbody Bag $19.95)

6. Colored skinny or straight leg jeans: Try of-the-moment mint or neon pink to make a statement. Pair with simple gray or white to tone down the color or solid brights for a colorblock effect. (Mossimo Supply Co. Colored Denim $22.99)

7. A bright blazer: From cobalt blue to hot pink, rainbow-hued blazers are the perfect layering piece to wear now with pants and later with skirts and shorts. (H&M Blazer, $49.95. Visit hm.com for store locations)

8. Something striped: With ballet flats and a blazer, nothing gives you instant polish like a striped top. (Old Navy Striped Dolman Sleeve Shirts $16.99)

9. A pop of neon: Consider a thin neon belt or statement necklace for an unexpected touch of color. (Bar III for Macy's Necklace $38)

10. A bright nail: Anything from orange to fuchsia feels "right now" and matches everything. (FACE Stockholm Nail Polish $10)
Comments
These are great picks - I already have several of them, but am still searching for a floral pencil skirt and a maxi dress! :-)
#1 Penny Pincher Fashion (Homepage) on 2012-03-30 16:23 (Reply)
I love those Target jeans! Hopefully they'll still have my size, I just got paid :-)
#2 Nichole (Homepage) on 2012-03-30 17:34 (Reply)
I am obsessed with your entire selection. seriously, can we share closets? :-) that AE dress is such a steal, and loving that necklace, too. Great, great picks Dianna!
#3 alyson (Homepage) on 2012-03-30 19:43 (Reply)
The satchel bag is totally awesome.
#4 Style on 2012-03-31 08:00 (Reply)
One of the reasons I love your blog is because we share similar tastes. :-)

I have already purchased 8 of these 10 pieces for spring (the same and lookalikes). It is very reassuring to see someone else validate my choices.
#5 sarahsosa on 2012-03-31 12:07 (Reply)
Loving the necklace! Check out some cheap but amazing floral pants on my blog!
*http://streetlight-fancies.blogspot.ca/2012/03/thank-you-h.html
#6 Brooke (Homepage) on 2012-04-01 11:46 (Reply)
I need a bag like this one in the picture! Love it.
#7 Dora (Homepage) on 2012-04-01 14:31 (Reply)
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