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10 Spring Must Haves Under $40

Adaobi Ugoagu |
April 20, 2014 | 8:00 a.m. PDT

Staff Reporter

Adaobi Ugoagu
Adaobi Ugoagu
One of the most exciting things about spring is that you have the opportunity to completely revamp your wardrobe to suit the weather. What’s even better is that many online stores such as Boohoo and Asos assists you in the revamping process by offering great spring styles for affordable prices! So as the days get warmer, it’s time to cart away those heavy cardigans and chunky boots and trade them in for some sandals and kimonos. This season, make sure your wardrobe possesses these 10 must have pieces in your springtime ensemble while staying under a $40 limit.

1. The Floral Dress

This piece is an absolute must have as the days brighten up. Not only does this dress look elegant and carefree when put on, but it is extremely versatile in how you can wear it. You can easily turn this dress from a day to night look by switching your cardigan and sneakers for a blazer and heeled sandals. Even better, this dress stays completely in budget. Forever 21 offers the Sweet Floral Skater Dress for $12.80.

2. A Kimono

Kimonos are definitely a new trend that popped up this spring. Despite that, it has been catching on quickly with fashionistas. Perfect for the music festival season, the light material and intricate pattern serves to complete an outfit that needs a bit of an “umph” to make it stand out. While you can find some kimonos to be priced extremely high, Missguided has overcome that standard by offering their Poppi Floral Long Line Chiffon Kimono at the regular price of $35.98. Currently, it’s on sale for $21.58.

3. Print Trousers

Tired of color block clothing? Want to jazz up an overworn outfit? Printed trousers are the way to go. Whether it’s zebra print or polka dots, having a statement pair of pants immediately brightens up an outfit and catches approving eyes. Take for the example the Monica Chain Print Harem Trousers from Boohoo’s online shop. Easily style a plain blouse or crop top along with a pair of heels with these pants, and suddenly it looks like you’ve walked off the runway. The trousers run for $32.00.

4. Gladiator Sandals

Who knew that Gerard Butler’s sandals in the film 300 would become a fashion statement? Gladiator sandals were a fixed trend last summer and it has carried itself into this season's essentials! Wear them with a maxi skirt. Slap them on before you head out to the beach. They are both fashionable and functional. What’s more is that you can find them anywhere for great prices. JCPenny’s Arizona Gladiator Sandals can be purchased at the low price of $19.99. 

5. Shoulder Strap Satchel

While winter styles emphasize layering to complete an outfit, the spring emphasizes on accessories in order to balance out simple, plain, outfits. This means that what bag you’re carrying is important. The Everyday Structured Satchel from Forever 21 comes in red, white, and green. These colors mesh and complement any outfit, casual or formal, and doesn’t cause any strains on your wallet. 

SEE ALSO: Designers Recommend These Shades For Spring 2014

6. Wide Brimmed Hat

A wide brimmed hat is another staple accessory to own this spring. It not only gives off a relaxed beach feel, but it also protects your face from overexposure to the sun. This hat can easily be found from street vendors on the boardwalk of Venice Beach, the Fashion District in LA, or international online shops such as AliExpress that offer these hats at the starting price of $8.93 with free shipping!

7. Rompers

The romper needs to be on the forefront of your wardrobe this season. It is perfect for warmer weather because it requires minimal to no layering and you have a full outfit on in a matter of seconds. You can find anything from colorblock rompers to intricately patterned rompers that scream spring while staying under $40. Asos, which has free shipping to the USA, offers many styles of this piece. Try the Asos Playsuit in a beautiful orange to set the springtime standard. 

8. Sunglasses

More sun means more protection for your eyes. But don’t throw on any ol’ pair of shades! Find the perfect pair that not only suits your face but also makes a statement completing your spring look. This season, rounded and cat eye sunglasses that give a vintage flair are on the rise of eyewear styles. Urban Outfitters has a plethora of sunglasses that fit under the vintage category. The Lydia Petite Round Glasses can be found at most UO stores for $16.00.

9. Mascara

Heavy makeup is never a great option especially as the heat rises, but you still need something to highlight your features and complement your outfits. We would advise relying on mascara this season. There’s no need for heavy blushes or foundations if you can accentuate your eyes with the perfect mascara that volumizes and elongates the lashes. The L’Oreal Power Volume Mascara goes for 24 hours without smudging or smearing while you sweat or even have an emotional moment. You can find it at Target for $6.59 online. 

10. High Waisted Denim Shorts

Last on our list is a classic. Denim shorts can be the go-to piece when you feel like having a low key day while remaining stylish. Throw on a crop top and a kimono, and suddenly you’re looking Coachella ready. The range of prices for denim shorts go from dirt cheap to incredibly expensive depending on what you’re looking for. For the purposes of staying wallet friendly, we found a pair of Acid Wash High Waisted Denim cutoffs from Charlotte Russe at the inexpensive price of $26.99. 

Reach Staff Reporter Adaobi Ugoagu here and follow her on Twitter. 



 

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