We’re all really feeling the economic squeeze in every area of our lives these days, and that includes in the apparel industry. As prices go up, the fabric quality goes down. Sometimes brands struggle to design within these price confines, and it shows. I’ve been looking for some cute but budget-friendly springy items to refresh my closet as the weather gets nicer. Unfortunately and much to my frustration, I’ve been coming up short! Everywhere I look I see cute dresses made of cotton poplin, and I cannot express my disdain for the fabric enough — it looks cheap, it feels crunchy, and it wrinkles immediately after you put it on. To see the price tags that accompany these items makes the purchase that much harder to justify. 

I really appreciate a brand that can design well under conditions like this, and I have to say I was blown away by the selection at Loft. On a recent trip to the mall, I popped into Loft on a whim, after exhausting my usual stores and full of frustration towards ill-fitting slip dresses (who brought these back?) and cheap fabrics that didn’t warrant their expensive price tags. 

Honestly, walking into Loft was such a breath of fresh air. Light summer knits, textured fabrics that look more expensive than they are, and cute silhouettes with universally flattering fits — I was sold. And the best part? Everything was on sale! (Most items are currently 40% off) I walked out with a few items in my shopping bag, but there’s a few other things I left behind that are calling my name…

I’m sharing a few of my favorite items here — some I bought and a few I’m going back for! I find that the Loft typically runs pretty true to size, I wear a size Small/4-6 in most items. 

My favorite piece is a smocked bodice dress (yes, it has pockets!), modeled after a certain popular ‘snoozing’ dress. Having tried both, I have to say the fabric selection and fit is much better at Loft! I’ll be wearing this dress on repeat all summer. 

Another great find at Loft is their sheer, lightweight cardigans. I usually stock up on these every few years as they’re great to throw on with strappy tops or dresses to make them a little more office appropriate (or when there’s a chill in the air). This year they have one in, you guessed it, my favorite shade of blue, so I’ll be getting one! I’m also purchasing in white, since that goes with everything. 

I love these seersucker shorts with the paperbag waist and bow tie. Not too short, not too long, and they’ll go with my tank top uniform I find myself wearing during the hottest days of Southern summers. 

I also love this romper, which I saw a similar version of at a much higher price point somewhere else. 

This blouse reminds me of a bestseller Madewell used to carry, and I like the lightweight, textured fabric they’re offering it in — perfect for warmer weather.

Although not as springy-looking as the rest, these crepe pull on dress pants are solid gold. They’re really lightweight so they’ll be perfect for those hot summer days at the office. The fit is fantastic, and they have a pintuck detail down the front, as well as functional pockets. A steal for the price, and an easy work wardrobe staple.

This light pink windbreaker reminds me of sherbet, and would look so cute with some of the athletic clothes featured in this post for a weekend walk at the park.

You know I am a harsh critic when it comes to fabric, design, and construction, and I really think these pieces are a great value for the price, without sacrificing style. They’re easy and cute and will be just what I need to spruce up my everyday clothing for the new season. 

In fact, everything I bought I can envision either out on a boat (I think in another life I live on the east coast and I’m a boat person!), at a picnic, out to brunch, or just looking cute on a date! I’m so excited to incorporate all these new pieces into my wardrobe. 

If you order something from the sale, please share in the comments below! I’d love to see what you’re buying. 

Disclosure: If you buy something through my links, I may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. I only share things on here with you that I truly love. As always, thank you for your support!