• Shopping
Jan 20, 2012 7:00 AM EST
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Cheap Challenge! 3 Editors' Outfits Under $50
Though we all go through the hardships of saving up for that big splurge, the real test of a savvy shopper is how she navigates the cheapie stores and sale racks. Our editors love the thrill of the hunt, especially when that means a complete outfit for a bargain. Our challenge: Find a head-to-toe look at one shop for under $50. That means we could only pick from what was available in-store at the moment, had to figure out a seasonally-appropriate outfit (that means layering!) for chump change, and somehow figure in a pair of shoes as well. Needless to say, it was hard, but we don't call ourselves shopping experts for nothing. If you enjoyed Cheap Challenge Part I and Part II, you'll definitely enjoy our third edition. Click through to see how Connie, Annie, and Shawna fared at Charlotte Russe, H&M, and Rainbow — and tell us, did they succeed?

Connie_CharlotteRusse

Connie, Global EditorCharlotte Russe

"Charlotte Russe was my go-to in high school, but I can't say that I've been a frequent shopper since then. Though there were plenty of 'going out' looks available, my personal day-to-day wardrobe staples (read: high-waisted A-line skirts, sweaters, trousers, and boots) were slim. Pressed for time, I did find one outfit that I'm really into, including a sheer, printed button-up with a charming collar, a cable-knit sweater, and a bandage skirt that I could see myself wearing quite a bit this summer. I have to say, if you're into super-tall shoes, the options at Charlotte Russe can't be beat for their price and variety. They had an amazing deal going on for $15 heels, and an in-store promotion (that seemed to be a regular thing) that offered a free $10 for every $40 spent. Cha-ching! Given more time, I would have totally tackled the printed denim section. There were some leopard-print skinnies that had my name written all over them."