Ever look at something and think,

Okay, I love this _____, but I honestly do not feel comfortable spending $250+ on it?

Maybe it is a super on-trend item, or an incredibly bold color that would not go with many things in your wardrobe. I used to be completely against inexpensive brands – many reasons why – including labor and copyright violations (look at that horrible accident at the sweat shop in Bangladesh which included JC Penney/Joe Fresh among their clients). But sometimes you need to save money, and cannot think about other things that are pretty much out of your power (as an ‘average Jane’). It is a horribly mixed bag, but I thought you all would enjoy seeing the pretty items I found exploring some new websites, as well as some old favorites that I read many of you shopping at from time to time. I do not know the origin of these brands, where the items are made, etc., but I am just trying to be more open to inexpensive brands to show how similar items can be found for less. I hope you enjoy my discoveries!

Starfish Stones Stud Earrings from C. Wonder, $48. I like the subtle blues here. The pink multi looks too harsh with the orange stone stuck in it.

Bold Links Bracelet from Jeweliq, $25. Sometimes I want a bold gold bracelet to tie in my gold earrings or necklaces. My engagement ring and wedding band set sometimes detract from any gold jewelry I wear, so I think a strong bracelet would help in complimenting the gold jewelry in an outfit. I think this is a slip-on, not hinged.

Orange bag, style no. 20769A, from Nila Anthony, $80. This bold orange purse is perfect for Florida Gator, Clemson, Virginia Tech, and University of Virginia fans alike. I really like the shape of this ‘leatherette’ purse. It has gold hardware and a zip top closure.

Fanton diamond quilted clutch crossbody purse from Big Buddha in white, $59. Another faux-leather bag that looks pretty decent – obviously Chanel-inspired – for those on a budget. The chain-link strap is removable. Lots of colors to choose from and since it is sold on HSN you can even do Flex Pay on it if you cannot pay for it all at once.

Danger Zone by Chinese Laundry, $89 on ShoeDazzle.com. Genuine leather with a metal toe cap. Sold in black and white. Similar to the Louis Vuitton Merry-go-round pump from their Spring 2012 runway.

Sarah Shirred Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress, $30 from BooHoo.com. Floor-length maxi dress is made from 100% cotton. BooHoo is a UK-based company I recently read about in People Style Watch. Fantastic shipping deal: free shipping on US orders of $25 or more. Looks like it ships internationally!

Gold Navy Rope Print bandeau top, $52, from SperryTopSider.com. I have noticed, as an adult, that some surf shops that carry brands like Sperry and Roxy do an additional markup from the retail price. Why not buy directly from the brand’s website? Might save $15 on a cute bathing suit top like this one this summer! This bandeau top also comes in ‘golf green’ with light pink lobsters!

Cristina Dress in poppy red by Club Monaco, $139. Super cute peplum dress from Club Monaco. On sale right now in both black and poppy red. Curved side seams and princess seams down the back. Nice poly-knit construction.

Peplum paneled dress with faux patent leather belt, $24.80 from Forever 21. Super bright orange poly-blend peplum dress. Forever 21 says there are darts at bust, but it almost looks like princess seams that stem off of the peplum at the waist. Apparently runs small.

Renegade Moto Jacket, $88 from Nasty Gal. Vegan leather moto jacket. Zipper details, side pockets, buckled waist, lots of details to make it look expensive. Runs true to size.

Which items are your favorite? Do you tend to buy on-trend items using faux materials or at discount stores to spend less money?