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?