by Sarah Gross, The Modern Mamanista
You might say I’ve always been a bargain hunter. So much so that my skills earned me the nickname “Sarah Shopper” from my family. My favorite pastime as a child was sitting with my dad and pulling the ads from his Sunday paper and circling all the things I wanted to buy when I grew up. Now that I’m grown up I still like to keep to a budget and there are some great, easy-breezy summer items that won’t break the bank. Here are five of my favorite summer must-haves that won’t break the bank! In fact, all five are $30 or less so there’s budget left over to pick up your favorite iced coffee or margarita!
1. MITILLY Sleeveless Button-Down Pocket Dress
This dress is a comfortable knit and feels fun for summer but not too short or too young at age 44! The easy cut and fit make it perfect to wear to a casual patio dinner with my family or to throw on to run errands around town!
2. CUPSHE Floral Print High-Waisted Two-Piece Swimsuit
Post kids, swimsuits are a struggle to find. I want one that gives enough lift and coverage for my mid-40s and after two kids. However, I also want it to feel fun for summer and show off those areas I work hard to tone and maintain at the gym and trying to eat healthily. This Cupshe High-Waisted Bikini has a halter top which keeps everything secure and the bottoms have a bit more coverage in the back so I can still be active with my family and not worry about what’s hanging out of my suit! Fits true to size; I’m 5’8”, 130 pounds, and typically a size 4/small. I’m wearing a small in the picture.
3. Amoretu Printed Geometric Tunic Shift Dress
I bought this printed geometric shift dress for vacation since sometimes evenings at the beach can be a bit cool. I love the fun print! Plus it’s easy to accessorize with simple jewelry, a pair of neutral wedges, and let the dress do the talking! I get so many compliments every time I wear this! This dress fits true to size, I’m wearing a small in the picture.
4. PRETTYGARDEN Plaid Sleeveless Ruffle Sundress with Pockets
There’s just something about gingham that feels like summer here in the south! Dresses are such an easy way to feel pulled together and stay cool in the summer. I love to pair this classic black and white gingham sundress with cognac sandals or add a fun pop of color with shoes and statement earrings. This dress fits true to size and I’m wearing a small.
5. CUPSHE V Neck Ruffled One-Piece Swimsuit
I love the ruffle detailing on this Cupshe one-piece swimsuit. Somehow the striped pattern and unexpected detailing keep this one-piece feeling young and playful while still providing a little more coverage on the beach. It comes in other striped color combinations but it also comes in solid colors and floral combinations which you can find HERE. Fits true to size and I’m wearing a small in the picture.
Your turn! What summer piece is your favorite?
Meet Sarah
This Modern Mamanista started as a young fashionista when my mom bought me a Fashion Plates drawing set and Superstar Barbie Fashion Face for my birthday in the ’80s. For work, I gravitate towards effortless chic and look for great jewelry and shoes to make my outfit. I’d like to think shoes, not diamonds, are really a girl’s best friend. For the weekends, I embrace my girl next door style with more casual-chic, comfortable pieces that take me from errands to kid activities and family dinners at our favorite restaurant or a concert at our neighborhood plaza. No lounge pants and slippers or mom jeans for this mom!
