Thrifty Thursday

As in other states, the temperatures have really been climbing lately in southern California. For the last couple months the typical summer weather that we southern Californians are used to (read: HEAT and SUN) was nonexistent and looked like it might never make an appearance. Well, it finally has. Now that the temperatures are rising I find myself obsessively browsing for sun dresses, bikinis, and sandals online. Below are a few of my favorite sandal finds - all under $50!

How fun are these Steve Madden Erinn sandals?! I envision them with a simple black or white sundress and piles of gold jewelry. Priced at only $39.99 (on sale on Piperlime) they're a steal!

Not only are these Mia Hayat sandals ($29.99-$39) a great bargain for a summer shoe, but they can so easily transition into any fall weekend wardrobe. With a suede exterior and slightly more coverage than your average sandal, these will look fabulous as the temperatures drop paired with some skinny jeans and basic t's.

Along with a great pair of jeans and that little black dress, every closet should also be home to a simple pair of nude sandals (seriously, they'll go with everything during the summer months). These Michael Antonio Dava sandals are a great buy at only $29.99 and are interesting enough that you won't be bored buying such a necessary basic.

Which ones are your favorite?

Pretty Ugly

Do you ever find yourself attracted to an item of clothing/accessory/pair of shoes that you know deep down is really truly ugly? And yet, for some reason you're drawn to this item and feel compelled to purchase it even though you know it's ugly and, if you were to see said item on someone else, you would most likely judge her? Enter the Jeffrey Campbell Cayman sandals pictured to the right. Although I can't articulate exactly what it is, there's something about them that I like. These sandals really are great in theory - gladiator sandals are fabulous and leopard print is great for spicing up an otherwise neutral outfit. However, I also know that they're pretty darn hideous and if I were to spot them on anyone else, I wouldn't look twice. Thankfully, my rational side has taken control and I'm not purchasing these. But I have to say - looking at these sandals and contemplating adding them to my shoe collection them made me wonder, what other "pretty-ugly" items do I have hidden in my closet?