Summer Trends: Steal vs. Splurge!

Trendsetter Kari Skaflen is the editor and founder Above the Fray an online magazine dedicated to inspiring fashion and emerging designers. She’s curated a selection of summer “must-haves” in 2 categories: The Splurge, because she knows, sometimes you just have to have the real deal and The Steal, for those other times when responsibility and reality come calling—a girl’s still gotta pay rent…

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White summer dress a la Carrie Bradshaw

STEAL: This casual white Vintage Whisper Mini Dress by Splendid is a mere $57.50

SPLURGE: This is the real deal: Halston Heritage- Deep V. Cocktail Dress. $325

**Black and White Print Maxi Dress **

STEAL: This adorable little number from White House Black Market does a graphic take on the floral trend. Lily Print Halter Maxi Dress in black and white $79.99

SPLURGE: The sexy black and white negative dress from Diesel is awash in delicate shades of gray . Diesel Negative Floral Print Maxi Silk Mix Dress. $253.64

**Quintessential Black Hobo Bag ******

STEAL: The perfect bag to get you through the summer in effortlessly chic style. Big Buddah Sadie bag in black. $72

SPLURGE: Go all out with the ultimate shaped hobo bag from maestro Martin Margiela. Martin Margiela, slouchy hobo in black. $1,475

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Cuffed Summer Shorts

STEAL: Sanctuary Cruz Shorts make a killer cuffed army-green short that’s perfect for summer. Sanctuary Cruz Short in Army. $70

SPLURGE: These slouchy and decadent shorts from Elizabeth and James combine comfort and sophistication. Summer Dhoti Shorts. $265

Strappy Bondage Heel

STEAL: The twisted straps on the  “Gwenyth” from Uli is creates the ruched bondage effect with ease. “Gwenyth” by Uli. $153

SPLURGE: Va-va voom these drop dead sexy sandals from Louboutin are sure to make any girl’s heart race. Christian Louboutin Tinazata Peep-Toe Platform Sandals. $1395