The $4000 Budget

Dana's $4000 Budget

Three InStyle staffers give us the lowdown on what they're craving for spring. The catch? Each one has a limited amount to spend ($400, $2,000, $4,000). Over the next four months, you'll see just how they strategize to round out their wardrobes.

My Spring Inspirations

I'm going modern with solids, as opposed to the fussy look of prints. I'm a new mom, so in the morning I want simple, flattering items.

From top to bottom:
One of my favorite shows was 3.1 Phillip Lim. The pastel combos on his runway felt so new-such a pretty trend.

I have loved Audrey Tautou ever since I saw her in Amélie 11 years ago. Her style is classic French: minimal yet ultrafeminine.

The Spanish island of Formentera, in the Mediterranean, is like Ibiza but more relaxed.

-Dana Avidan-Cohn, Market Editor

Jason Wu for Target

You can wear this shirtdress buttoned up or open, layered over a slip.

Polyester crêpe dress, Jason Wu for Target, $40;

target.com

H&M

I hate delicate sandals and feeling like my feet have no support. I like to pair feminine clothing with chunky platforms.

Suede, leather, and cotton sandals, H&M, $60;

HM.COM for stores

Forever 21

A sleeveless trench is surprisingly versatile. You can create many looks depending on your underpinnings. I'd try a long-sleeve striped T or a lace blouse with this.

Polyester-cotton trenchcoat, Forever21, $25;

forever21.com for stores.

Ann Taylor

Neon jewelry is one of my spring musts.

Glass and metal necklace, Ann Taylor, $78;

anntaylor.com for stores.

Gap

All-white frames don't look great with my olive complexion. This pair hasa golden hue that warms up my skin's undertones.

Plastic sunglasses, Gap, $25;

gap.com.

Rachel Roy

This print looks luxe and sophisticated, and the price is amazing. Also, the lightweight canvas has the feel of a weekend bag, but the structuredshape is perfect for the office.

Canvas shoulder bag, Rachel Roy, $79;

rachelyroy.com.

American Eagle Outfitters

I add little bracelets to my wrists throughout the summer. The more texturesyou mix?sparkle, beaded, woven?the better it looks.

Faux-leather and metal bracelets, American Eagle Outfitters, $10/set;

ae.com.

Victoria's Secret Catalogue

Buy this lightweight sweater one size larger so that it's slouchy.

Cotton sweater, Victoria's Secret Catalogue, $50;

victoriassecret.com.

Joe Fresh

This bikini's retro style is what caught my eye.

Nylon-spandex bikini, Joe Fresh, $16/$14; 212-764-1730