Here at R29 HQ, mixing it up between way high and way low—and everywhere in between—is pretty much our daily bread. But, you know, we love a cheap yet deceptively chic outfit like nobody's business. Being the scourers of gold that we are, we decided to enlist a little editor challenge to see what we could whip up for just $50. Connie took on K-Mart, while obsessive thrifter Christene hit her favorite Salvation Army. The stakes were high—would we? Could we? We're talking head-to-toe here. But alas, we managed to assemble four impressive outfits that convinced us once again that you don't need deep pockets to have mad style. Dollar Store, Forever21, Goodwill...bring it on! And of course let us know what you think of our handiwork...would you give any of these looks a spin?
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Connie—Outfit #1: "Thinking outside the box is key—don't forget to rummage through sections other than Womens' and Juniors'. I found this very, very large girls' Easter dress with a print that felt way high-end. So what if the skirt started flaring out right underneath my armpits? I just tied a chambray shirt around my natural waist, and—voila!—an instant poof skirt."
Connie—Outfit #2: "The shirt was scored in the Little Boys' section (the fit may be a tad funny, but everything looks better tucked in). The denim vest and silky shorts are cheap thrills for sure, but are going to be staples for me this summer. I can't lie—the belt and little socks are from my own closet, but considering the fact that I bought them both for a total of $2 at a deli in Chinatown last year, I consider this a victory."
Christene—Outfit #3: "I won't lie: I saw this brocade dress on the rack and I thought, 'Is it so bad it's good? Or just bad?' Trying it on changed my mind, and topped with a classic navy suit jacket (which diffuses the grandma party vibe), I think this look could be great for a spring dinner or even an afternoon wedding."