Great Style on a Budget

I have a very successful aunt with a great sense of style, and she has a very interesting rule of thumb when it comes to shopping: Everything she buys is either very expensive or dirt cheap. I have a similar philosophy. For example, some of my current favorite pieces include a boldly colored skirt by Zac Posen and a safari-style khaki romper from Old Navy. So, on that note, I will prove that inexpensive doesn't need to look cheap.
My favorite tip: Remember that department store sales offer a great opportunity to land some deals, and the prices end up being comparable to a discount store item. The price gap between discount and department store is narrowing, in every category from cosmetics to clothes. At a department store sale, you get much better quality without having to pay for it. While researching shoes at Target for my recent newspaper column, I discovered faux leather pumps for $30. I would never spend that much on a pair of cheaply made shoes, when I can go to my favorite department store and get real leather pumps that are much more stylish and comfortable for the same price, on sale. So think outside the usual locations when bargain-hunting.
How do you know if you've landed a true bargain? The price doesn't matter - you'd want it no matter how much you had to pay. (Don't buy anything just because it's cheap. That's a true waste of money). And it looks like you spent a lot more than you did.

Here, a few great inexpensive finds that are currently in stores:

1. Shirtdresses and rompers (short jumpsuits) from Old Navy's Urban Safari collection: Cute, trendy and very affordable, especially now that they are on sale for $14.99. If they're sold out online, check your local store. That's how I found my romper for $12.99. LINK

2. Target's winning over fashionistas by offering limited-time lines from top designers, giving the budget-conscious a great opportunity to buy some high style for a song. Right now, all the pieces from hip design duo Jovovich-Hawk is on clearance, making it even more affordable. LINK

3. Kensie embellished dresses: This fresh, fun line offers adorable, but less expensive takes on the now-iconic retro dresses by Karta. And, at about one-third of the price, this is a fun trend you can afford to indulge in. LINK

4. a.n.a. separates from JCPenney: This line features modern, casual chic at down to earth prices. Love this top, which looks much more expensive than it is.LINK

5. These classic gorgeous evening shoes from Macy's are by Oscar de la Renta, and the huge sale makes them very affordable! LINK