On the Fashion Week runways, models strutted designer looks including bright patterns, Victorian-era frocks, and bold vintage styles. Don't be disheartened if a dream outfit doesn't fit your budget. Here are 10 cheap ways to wear the top trends of spring for less than $25.
Minimalists and lovers of neutral colors may shy away from this trend, but designers such as Dolce Gabbana and Balenciaga went with vibrant mash-ups of retro styles during Fashion Week. If the fierce, unique combinations are appealing, unearth vintage clothing from thrift stores and scour vintage shops on Etsy. Pair the items with modern pieces; for example, high-waisted jeans with a sexy crop top and heels. Avoid overdoing an outfit with tips on mixing prints and colors from BuzzFeed.
On several eccentric, fashion-forward frocks, designers placed big bows front and center, especially on the chest and neck. If the look seems enticing, consider classic chiffon tops that feature bows at the neckline or back, such as an Allegra K blouse (starting at $12 on Amazon). Or grab a favorite spring scarf and style it as a bow, following a tutorial from Yet Another Beauty Site.
Whether on bandeau bikinis or silky blouses, ruffles add volume and flair. Several designers showed dresses with Spanish- and Latin-inspired ruffles, including flamenco skirts and asymmetrical hemlines. Classic blouses with subtle ruffle detailing and ruffle dresses can be found at retailers such as Marshall's, Forever 21, and Kmart. A beige high-neck blouse with ruffles on the front is $18 from Choies.
Floral prints have graced the aisles of almost all the fast-fashion retailers for the past few seasons, and they're still going strong. Anyone can easily add flower power to a wardrobe with visits to HM and Forever 21, where there are racks of floral rompers and dresses, and even flowery high-top sneakers. If floral clothing seems overly loud, consider accessories such as flower rings, subtle headbands, and statement cuffs for pops of spring color.
Several designers featured flowing dresses and gowns with criss-cross "X" detailing on the chest and neck. Off-the-shoulder and cold-shoulder styles accentuate collarbones and necks. Pair an off-the-shoulder top with a halter top for that "X factor" look or pick up a scoop top for $17 at Target for work or play.
The billowing sleeves, lace detailing, and high collars of Victorian frocks graced the runway this season, an invitation to take your style back to the 1800s with classic pieces. A long skirt can be paired with a lacy top and pearls, or try mixing neutral-toned ruffles with a floral item. To add Victorian flair to your closet, try a trumpet-sleeve gauze top ($23 at Forever 21) or a long-sleeve blouse from Target ($23).
Light, flowing chiffon shirts and dresses appeared on the runway decorated with romantic pastel colors, whispery feathers, and sheer fabric. Chiffon dresses (a popular option for bridal parties) and pastels such as mint and lavender are always spring favorites for fast-fashion brands. Pick up a few inexpensive chiffon pieces on Amazon and pair with flowing skirts or light, pastel tights for a dreamy look.
Satin slips, lacy chemises, and bodysuits may seem inappropriate for office wear, but lingerie pieces are trendy options for a night out. Celine, Burberry, and Alexander Wang featured silky slip dresses. Experiment with this trend by wearing a silky chemise under a peek-a-boo poncho or blazer, or showing off a favorite bralette under a semi-sheer blouse. Bodysuits can be worn with skinny jeans or pencil skirts. Feeling adventurous? Try a slip dress under a knee-length sweater or casual jacket.
On an outfit such as a pinstripe suit, stripes convey bold style and attitude, and designers such as Salvatore Ferragamo, Prada, and Giorgio Armani showed off an array of striped looks. Solid stripes ran down long, flowing chiffon dresses, while other designers mixed stripes with florals and vibrant color blocks. To get the striped attitude, look for pieces that will complement most outfits. Try a casual black-and-white-striped jacket ($25 on Amazon) or pick up an oversize striped scarf for extra spring oomph.
Fringe isn't just for cowgirls in suede jackets. Designers at Fashion Week featured dresses, coats, and handbags with fun fringe bottoms that added extra movement and a flirty feel. Decide how far to go with this style by picking up a trial accessory such as a chunky cowl scarf ($4) or asymmetrical poncho ($11.50) from Charlotte Russe. If it works, go big with a fringe midi dress from GoJane ($22) and pair with ankle boots or heels.