Spring Trends Under $100 with Century 21

Oh, spring! Even though we are stuck in near-freezing temperatures in Chicago, I still daydream about spring trends and how I can make a runway look reality for less.

My love affair with off-price fashion began in New York when I first stepped foot into a Century 21 store. I recall gazing lovingly at everything I had seen in my most recent issue of Cosmopolitan magazine, within reach and within my meager budget. I recall not wanting to spend any time gazing at the Statue of Liberty or strolling through Central Park- I was obsessed with this store and wringing every drop of affordable fashion from it that I could.

Many items at Century 21 are over 50% off retail price, which for a bargain hunter like me creates a Pavlovian response with my credit card- I just NEED IT! Luckily after years of sifting through bargain basement-priced merchandise, I have learned to formulate a plan of attack when faced with heart palpitation-inducing deals.

I have identified four spring trends that I am willing to hop on the bandwagon with. Now, it is important to evaluate trends to make sure they fit with your personal style. For example, frayed hem crop flares are in- ugh. UGH! All I can see are highwaters. No thank you, because they chop the length of your legs and what will I do with them when they go out of style? Make jorts? Shudder. Here are items you can add to your closet without breaking the bank- everything is under $100!

Ruffles
This feminine trend can add a little volume and drama to an outfit, but you need to balance ruffles with something slim or tailored to offset the flounce.