This past weekend I headed to T.J.Maxx to check out the spring trends. I had to do a little digging but eventually found some great items, which I've highlighted here. The trick to shopping at a place like T.J.Maxx, for me at least, is to use laser-like focus as you hunt for things you really need and/or love...and block out the rest. For spring, I'm loving all the pastels from handbags to simple knits...think blush pink and washed out chambray. Distressed denim and graphic tops are still big, while boho blouses, florals, and nautical inspired pieces always seem to come back for spring - no complaints here. I tried to focus on items under $40, so everything you see here is super affordable (with the exception of the nude lace-up heels and powder blue BCBG bag). I ended up buying a cargo jacket for $39.99 (shown above) with a giftcard courtesy of the brand. I may have three such jackets in my closet already but I can never get enough! Loving the cargo vests, too, so versatile and easy to wear. Browse on, and let me know what catches your eye!

This weekend I stopped by Old Navy to check out the new spring fashions. If you're new to this blog, WELCOME! 'Off the Rack' is a series I started back in 2007 to showcase noteworthy budget fashions as they look in real life. By all means, browse oldnavy.com to see and shop all these pieces...lots of sales going on, including a Leap Year sale today only (save 29% with code LEAPYEAR). The vibe according to Old Navy is 'Modern Riviera' - a part-preppy, part-nautical collection inspired by the charm of little beach towns. For spring we're seeing relaxed trousers, boho blouses, crops (skinny, cuffed or wide leg), rompers and matching sets. This is the first season in a long time where I'm seeing new silhouettes that stand a chance of gaining wider acceptance. I left with two pairs of cropped relaxed fit mid-rise jeans, something I haven't worn in ages. Will I regret it? We'll see, but for now I'm loving it. Bring it on, spring. What styles are you ready to embrace when warm weather hits?

Shown above: Jeans, Sweatshirt (on clearance in stores)

Today I've rounded up 20 of my favorite finds under $20 in one of my favorite spring colors: Blush. Dubbed 'rose quartz' for 2016, this subtle shade of pink has me so excited for warm weather. I plan on incorporating blush hues into my wardrobe in simple, inexpensive ways...swapping out a neutral knit here and there, adding a pink lip, or a blush pink sneaker that I can live in all day. Mix your blush fashions with other soft shades like gray and white plus your essential denim for the most current look (love this inspiration outfit from Hello Fashion). What spring fashion trends are you looking forward to wearing this season?

Target has rolled out tons of new spring items in Bullseye's Playground aka the dollar bins, and I dare you resist walking past this cuteness without loading your cart with pastel-top mason jars, floral string lights, polka dot straws, burlap table runners, chalkboard signs, faux topiary bunnies and signs that say "egg hunt" and "think spring." Because I, for one, am thinking spring. I can not wait until we can get back outside after a long winter spent indoors. The gardening items for kids (mini watering can, spade, hat and more) are especially adorable not to mention useful learning tools for tots. I barely slept last night because my littles have colds so I'll just let these photos do the talking. Yay. SPRING!

See anything you love here? What did you buy?

Target is rolling out a lot of adorable new additions for babies and big kids alike - just yesterday marked the official launch of Pillowfort, a new kids decor line that's modern and chic (see my earlier post here for pics). And during my last trip to the store I spotted an end-cap displaying a few pieces from Oh Joy! for Target's nursery collection. Created with blogger and designer, Joy Cho, the line includes crib sheets, changing pad covers, swaddle blankets, security blankets, diaper bags, picture frames and more. The vibe is modern, trendy and colorful and perfect for your Instagram feed. I've got all my baby gear essentials but wouldn't mind buying some accent pieces like the 'OK' vase set or Heart LED Night Light...I bet it's perfect for providing just enough light for late-night diaper changes and nursing sessions in the early days with a newborn when you're still not quite accustomed to "seeing" in the dark.

Keep reading for a few more in-store pics, and check out the complete collection online at target.com. See also my post on Oh Joy! for Target limited-edition artwork.