Shop This: Tina's June "Top 12 Save Or Splurge" Guide
Tina, here,
Happy June!
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The retail world is full of surprises. Amazing deals and steals. Sometimes too good to be true, meaning you may get what you pay for and are disappointed. I am always on the hunt for the best deals, and that means sometimes you have to pay for quality and value, and sometimes you find a super good deal. We often get asked to provide more high-end products in the Vault, and so even though you've heard about my favorite white tee and best summer sandals, this month, you are getting access to my favorite "save or splurge" finds. I'll let you know what I've saved on and what I've splurged on, and you can decide what makes sense for you. To stay true to our philosophy, keep in mind our mantras, "Fill your closet with the modern classics that have a long shelf-life, then season it lightly with the trends," and don't forget this one, too, "don't overpay for a trend."
Related: 6 Classic Wardrobe Investments Every Woman Should Make
Here's my Top 12 Save or Splurge Summer Guide.
Statement Blouse
Every closet should contain 2 -3 times more tops than bottoms. So I'm willing to have some fun with seasonal tops. This summer, you're seeing this blue and white stripe ruffle top EVERYwhere. Off the shoulder or not, I believe it is a trend that may look tired next summer. So my vote is to SAVE, which means even if you buy the more expensive one, it's still under $100. Wear it with the white jeans below.
Frayed Hem Jeans
Another wardrobe staple is white jeans. If you still aren't convinced you can wear white jeans, take a moment and read this: How To Look Good In Jeans. I've told you about my new favorite white trouser jeans, and so many of you have found them to be as fabulous as I have! But what about the trendy frayed hem and cropped jeans? I think these may have more staying power, but I'm still not convinced you need to spend that much. So even my splurge option is under $100. Btw, Ann Taylor's denim has been improving over the past few seasons. And I discovered Articles Of Society last summer and was very impressed with the quality.
Chinos
I just get tired of jeans all the time, don't you? Last summer chinos were my newfound love. And I'm still wearing them this summer. I own 3 pairs of the Gap ones. Watch for them to go on sale and I bet you can get them even cheaper. The Tory Burch ones represent best what she stands for, good ole American classic staples that are a bit on the fun side. I feel like so many of her clothes are vacation-y and hard to pull off on a regular Tuesday making the camp drive. But every now and then I love a classic, like these patio pants in a chino, that she reinterprets with a kitschy print.
T-Shirt Dress
Like pj's that can be worn outside. You don't have to get white, but we know I'm addicted to white clothes (these come in different colors). I have a ruched one like the Tommy Bahamas and I feel it gives me a bit more coverage. But I do love the cut outs on the Calvin Klein one. They would both be great. Never let them touch a dryer or they will get shorter, and we can't have that.
White Tee
I am obsessed with white t-shirts. I own like 6 of the Target Mossimo ones. But I confess, I love the Rag & Bone t-shirts. They are cut on the bias, so they are extra flattering. They are all cotton, too, which is kind of a luxury now in clothing, but it also means you have to baby them in the washing machine and they cannot touch a dryer. The sleeves are really nice, too. They are angled (so are the Mossimo ones) and the vee is a bit narrower, which is a bit more elegant. I splurged on the Rag & Bone tee. Not saying you should, but if you're looking for a high-end white t-shirt, this is it. (It's also not see-through).
Lightweight Jacket
How often do you find a suede jacket with a tie at the waist? Hardly ever. This splurge is lamb suede and on sale. The best time to buy investment pieces for fall and winter is off-season, so I wanted to show you a reeeallllly good one that was priced well for what it is. It can double as a top on its own, or as a jacket. But hey, that faux suede blush jacket is darling, and makes a wonderful little summer cover.
Cork Wedges
I have a thing for cork wedges. They sing of summer to me. I had my first pair in kindergarten. And I'm still wearing them, so I'd say that's a pretty good endorsement for a classic. Cork is a natural shock absorber, and makes a good footbed. Jimmy Choo owns the high-end market for fashion cork wedges. They do look very pretty on your feet, I'm not gonna lie. I don't own them, but maybe one day. Warning on the Sam Edelman's - if you have a thin foot (not a narrow foot, but thin), you will flop around in this shoe.
Jelly Flip Flops
They never really went away, but they certainly are making a comeback. If you must wear flip flops, I like leather ones
Sparkly Sandals
The only reason I added this category is because I came across these GORGEOUS Manolos and about died. I just think they are the prettiest shoes ever (and they are selling fast). That heel! The fronds! And I love a side strap. Anyway, I won't be buying it, but we get a lot of requests for more high-end products in the Vault, so here ya go. It would be my choice for the prettiest, nude, dressy shoe ever.
Tortoise Sunglasses
I bought a pair of Prada sunglasses, my first ever expensive sunglasses I paid more than $19.99 for, back in 2009 and I still have them and wear them. I guess I was just really determined to take care of them since I paid about $200 for them. If you are inclined to take care of your sunglasses, I do believe in having really good ones. You tend to get what you pay for. And you get the UV protection you know you need. However, I am a fan of the cheap sunglasses you see at the gift shop or TJMaxx. Just sayin. And tortoise? Looks classy on everyone. Won't ever go out of style.
Sunless Tanner
The number one thing you can do to keep younger-looking skin is to stay out of the sun. And if you are in it, to wear SERIOUS sunscreen. I am a splurger here. The Omorovicza products are soooo pricey, but I am telling you they work. Like they are crazy good. I like this set because you get the Glam Glow (which is THE best sunless tanner out there - I have tried dozens), and the SPF30 UVA/ UVB protection for your face. It won't break you out. The Glam Glow won't dry your skin, stain your sheets or make you smell. I just can't say enough about these products. As for the Banana Boat, I have also seen the results and been very impressed. It does not have sunscreen in it like Jergens Natural Glow does, but the color it produces is pretty impressive.
Dry Shampoo
I just buy what Deidre tells me to when it comes to my hair, and she says Oribe (pronounced or-bay) is the best. When I use if on day 3 or 4 of my blowout, people ask me what scent I'm wearing because it smells so good. And it gives my fine hair some ooomph. It's not drying either. So I'm a believer. But Batiste has a cult following so I felt you should know about it. And the bottle is so pretty!
I hope you can fill your summer wardrobe and vanity with these wonderful finds and a few serious investments. As I find more great deals, you know you'll be the first to hear about them!
Happy Summer,
Tina
