Above: Looks from the Retro Swim shop at UrbanOutfitters.com

Today I want to gush about Milly's Spring 2008 collection, not because it's cheap, but because it's a treasure trove of fun, fabulous fashions that we can mine for inspiration and styling ideas. And that's one of the keys to shopping on a budget: You need to be observant and take notes from the pros, even if you can't afford those exact pieces.



First, some background info: In my mind, I sort of lump together relative newcomers to the fashion scene such as Milly, Tory Burch, Tibi and Trina Turk as followers of the great Lilly Pulitzer - they all represent a modern preppy aesthetic with simple silhouettes, easy-to-wear knits and prints that pop. Add a touch of Palm Beach, a splash of socialite and a pinch of boho, and the result is a line that smacks of the good life. Worn by the good girl. Who has impeccable taste. But isn't stuck up.




So back to Milly: We love how she's used black and white, and there's lots of it, but it never gets boring. This color combo is a match made in heaven, and perfect for spring and summer. Add one colorful element to mix it up or make your outfit really pop. Couldn't be easier.




Here's what else we love about the collection: Lots of white, chevron stripes, eyelet, straw totes, summer scarves, thong sandal heels, patent leather belts, turbans, floppy hats, retro shades, embellished collars, breezy frocks, high-waisted skirts, accent colors such as yellow, garden snake green, coral pink and sky blue. Phew!

Check out the rest of the collection here. Are you inspired at all by Milly?

We are seriously impressed with Old Navy's selection of fashionable, affordable summer sandals. They've got styles that will take you from a day at the beach to a weekend BBQ to a dressy dinner date at a fraction of the cost of designer sandals - and ya know what? They look just as good. Seriously, no one will know the difference...except you. So save your cash for that summer vacation, and scope out these great buys...


Wear these gold gladiators with white jeans, cute dresses and just about any other summer outfit. Dress them up or down, wear them day or night (you'll hear me say that a lot because I am all about versatility in fashion). Absolutely perfect, especially the price! $19.50



I love the simple, clean design of these adorable cotton canvas ankle strap sandals. They'd look smashing with smart shorts or short skirts. $19.50



From ON's real leather collection, these smooth suede sandals with brushed metal studs are chic and cool and ultra comfortable. Not everyone's got the right tootsies for t-straps (I know I don't), but if you do, this style can be very flattering. $19.50



These modern metallic sandals have just the right amount of shine. Very laid-back glam (the best kind!) $19.50



Can you believe these patent t-strap sandals are just $11.99? Available in mariner blue, garden snake green or cayman pink, the trouble will be picking just one pair.



Nautical-themed rope strap sandals are the perfect companion for seaside, lakeside and poolside lounging. $19.50

Her delicate creations have been worn by stars like Jennifer Aniston, Kirsten Dunst, Kate Hudson, Demi Moore, and Courteney Cox. Jewelry designer Jennifer Meyer, who just happens to be married to actor Tobey Maguire, has made a name for herself with her trademark necklaces, earrings, rings and bracelets that evoke nature and might just bring their owner good luck. Her wishbone pendant (above left) certainly looks lucky, but for $700, how much good fortune can it possibly bring if you have to spend a small fortune to buy it? Until you win the lottery, get the look for a whole lot less with the charm on the right from Forever 21 that's just $5.80. I'm feeling luckier already.

>> Wishbone necklace at Forever 21, $5.80