Walmart has FINALLY added some new items to their perpetually out-of-stock Norma Kamali collection, and I want it all! Ok, not really but there are some amazing-looking pieces. See that all-in-one jersey top (above center)? It can be worn 6 different ways! And if you've been to American Apparel, Urban, or Free People recently, then you know that convertible pieces are hot commodities these days. And that amazing canvas bag? Available in either black/tan or white/tan, this versatile bag would be great for school, work or play (a budget alternative to the Longchamp Le Pliage, perhaps?).

Assuming the quality of these latest Norma Kamali additions is comparable to what was released in the fall (and I see no reason why it wouldn't be), budget fashion shoppers are in for a real treat. Click the thumbnail images below to shop for any of the items featured.

I recently lost a substantial amount of weight (35 lbs) and went from a size 12 to a 6. So you can imagine, my old clothes are tad too big. … I need to buy new pants for the office. I literally have one pair of black pants that actually look normal on me, and I just want to be able to get the same (or very similar) style, cut and price for all colors (like grays, blacks, pin-stripes etc.) so I can be sure of how they will fit all at once. Places like TJ’s and Marshall’s are hit and miss with these kinds of things and I REFUSE to pay $60 for a pair of black or gray slacks at places like Express, Limited or NY&Co. I worked very hard for this weight loss, so I want to be able to wear a size that is true to my body, instead of forcing my old clothes to fit by awkward alterations and belts, but I never realized how expensive it could actually be! Help!! —Swimming in Old Office Slacks.

First off, congratulations on your weight loss: You set a goal, and you reached it! This accomplishment is certainly worth celebrating, but I understand how expensive it can be to build a new wardrobe basically from scratch. Fortunately, I think there are many places where you can shop for affordable, office-appropriate pants.

American Living Green Pleated Dress, on sale in stores for about $62 (not available online when this post was written).

I know a few ladies who are looking for affordable graduation dresses to wear this spring, and I think I may have struck gold! The other day while conducting research (as I like to call it) at JCPenney, I tried on a bunch of spring dresses from the American Living line (that's their Ralph Lauren red-white-and-blue Americana themed collection), and I think they looked, in a word, CLASSY. The American Living collection as a whole doesn't reflect my personal style, but even I like to get pulled-together for special occasions, and these ladylike frocks were a breath of fresh air.

American Living Tiered Mock-Wrap Dress, From $82.50 To $84.00

Here, I'm modeling three of the more brightly hued dresses. The feminine, conservative-chic cuts were very flattering, each dress was fully-lined and allowed for normal bra-wear. I'm wearing a black bra underneath the white dress (below) and it did not show through, which says something about the quality.

Another pro: Long hemlines. Finally a practical skirt that drops at the knee. (I say practical because I have nothing against short skirts and showing leg, but sometimes you need more length—at a formal graduation ceremony, for example!) Yet another great thing about these dresses is that they're available in Misses size 4-16; additionally, many of the dresses are also available in Plus size 14W-24W. Sweet.

American Living Floral Eyelet Dress, Original $100.00; Now $75.00.

Ok, so let's talk price: All American Living dresses were on sale at my local JCPenney, averaging around $60. However, I was looking at the new spring arrivals. There were great finds under $50 on the clearance racks. Overall, I didn't see any dresses over $100. You may want to check it out in stores, then consider ordering online. Stalk the sales, and use a coupon.

If bright colors aren't your thing, the American Living collection also had a large selection of classic black options. Worn with a cropped cardigan, pearls and strappy heels or cute wedges, I think any of these dresses will help you accept your diploma in style.

View the entire American Living collection here.

Inspired by Chloé's Spring 2009 runway, I set out to find some relaxed fit shorts in either silk or satin, and discovered the best ones on a budget can currently be found at Express. I can easily see these seductive bottoms transitioning from day to night, but I don't think they're appropriate office attire. Paired with heels and a tuxedo jacket, I think these shorts would be best worn as a cocktail dress alternative. So would I wear them? Absolutely. How about you? (P.S. Most of the shorts shown above are available in different colors, so check them out using the widget below to see all your options.)

The big day has finally arrived when fashionistas nationwide can shop the Alexander McQueen for Target collection online and at select stores (sadly, not carried at a store near me). I'm just dying to get my hands on the asymmetrical dress (above) but I am reluctant to spend $69.99 without trying it on. Are you guys going gagga? Let me know what you buy!

See the entire Alexander McQueen Collection at Target.com.