So much of personal style is about piecing together the right stuff and making it work with what you have. Most of us will never get the chance to see a Chanel runway up close, yet fashion lives within the 99%–we accept and reject trends, support brands and designers, and find ways to get the lux look for way less. So in honor of penny pinching fashionistas everywhere, Split Trends is on a mission to find ready to wear style in the unlikeliest (and most inexpensive) of places. Part One of our journey takes place in Walmart, where I sifted through the junior’s and women’s departments to find a few hidden gems. Read on to see three vintage-inspired Spring dress looks, and count down to our biggest steal. Photography by Henry Doll
First up is a Sleeveless Floral Dress in magenta and black with a tie-waist ribbon. The hemline has a wide sweep, creating a flared and slightly ruffled finish. I love the cinching cloth belt for a trim silhouette–you can play up the bow by tying it in front or back, or opt it out for one of your own. I can’t wait to wear this one with my vintage black patent leather belt and gaudy gold buckle. I finished off this look with a pair of black flats and a braided, beaded bracelet in black and silver. The flap-front clutch with grey patent croc finish has a thin strap tucked inside to convert to cross body, and can take you from day to evening. Quick Tip: This dress can be purchased online for the same amount as in store, and will come with a free matching shrug. George Women’s Belted Dress and Shrug Set, $19.88; George Croco Lighten Up Purse in Grey, $12.00, Black and Silver Seed Bead Criss Cross Cuff Bracelet, $5.48; Black Flats, $5.00 Total Look: $42.36
Since I just can’t resist those retro silhouettes, my second look features a chiffon polka dot dress in navy–classic, yet fun. The deep v neckline has a faux wrap look, followed by a wide, gathered waistband. The sleeveless straps each have strings to tie into a small bow, but this detail can be removed if you tuck them underneath. I wanted to keep this look subtle overall, so I went for a small, timeless cross body handbag in cream–a tone that will pick up the polka dots. It has a silver buckle finish on front and a long strap drop, so I show it here as a shoulder bag. Once again, those trusty black flats keep us moving along. To keep this outfit looking vintage, play up the nod to decades past with a pair of cat eye or wayfarer sunglasses. George Women’s Sleeveless Zipper Back Chiffon Dress, $19.88; Handbag, $11 Clearance; Black Flats, $5.00 Total Look: $35.88
We finish here with a look for the cool girl–Maxi Dresses are back this season (aren’t you excited?) and I love this subdued, chiffon, animal print. This kind of a style is perfect for kicking around in hot weather, going to the beach, or spending a day in the park, as you can see here. The juniors dress has a flirty ruffle along the neckline and a wide, elastic waistband, which really gives this flowing garment some structured form. The gold rimmed aviators agree with our 70s look, and the chunky silver ring is the perfect accent piece. Feel free to add super long layered necklaces, stacked bangles and/or an oversized satchel handbag. Juniors Chiffon Printed Maxi Dress, $14.88; Aviator Sunglasses, $5.00; Silver Fashion Ring, $5.00; Black Flats, $5.00 Total Look: $29.88
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