Kirkwood’s summer style on a budget

One of the few times in my life when anything goes, style-wise, is summer. Summer clothing might be made of lighter — and less — material, but the strain on my wallet remains the same for a tank top as for a wool sweater. So, to solve this predicament, I went to four Kirkwood Avenue hot spots to find summertime trends, each for less than $50.

URBAN OUTFITTERS
At Urban Outfitters, the Ruffle Tier Tank by Kimchi Blue is a great piece for a night out at the bar or even a bonfire. The crossback straps and boatneck make it versatile enough to be worn casually or dressed up, and it is made in floral prints and solids. At $38, this tank is sure to be a fresh summer staple.

CHA CHA
Cha Cha provides a multitude of airy, whimsical dresses to suit anyone’s preference.
Their 100 percent cotton white allover-eyelet lace strapless dress by designer Double Zero makes for a perfect hot-weather piece. A lot of casual white dresses showed up on runways this spring, especially in the collections of Max Azria and Cacharel.

This dress is full of feminine detail, with a ruched elastic cotton back panel to keep the top in place. For $45, it might seem a bit pricey, but its classic style will lend itself to many occasions.

PITAYA
The store features playful and eclectic pieces, and accessories are a huge part of its summer merchandise. At $12 per accessory — unless otherwise marked — the store has plenty affordable options to choose from.  

Crochet and leather waist-cinching belts, flowered headbands, and multi-stranded necklaces adorn the front half of the store. As seen in Hermes’ spring 2010 accessories, leather waist belts are a must for pairing with flowing tops and dresses. And the store’s long, chunky necklaces are reminiscent of Philippe Ferrandis’ mixed media jewelry for spring 2010.  

CACTUS FLOWER
Bohemian chic is the vibe for summer at Cactus Flower. Lightweight, vibrantly patterned viscose scarves by Shiraleah and Karma are $20 and $18, respectively.

Handmade and vintage apparel is coming into focus now, with designers such as Versace and Diane Von Furstenberg being inspired by 1960s and ’70s culture for their spring and summer accessory lines.

Cactus Flower is definitely the place to find affordable one-of-a-kind accessories this summer.