Metropolitan Mama

My “rule” for buying new clothes is that I generally stick to a $20 or under price tag for each piece of clothing. I make exceptions, however, for jeans, bras, coats, and the occasional piece that I just *know* I’ll wear everywhere.

Because I am a deal-seeking kind of girl, I appreciate boutiques like DownEast Basics.

The cool thing about DownEast Basics is that the most expensive item that the brand carries is $44.99. Most of the tops, bottoms, dresses, and skirts actually run in the $15-$30 range. And, if you are a bargainista like me, you’ll appreciate the sale page with discounts up to 70% off (If you’re pregnant, be sure to check out the maternity tanks and tees on-sale for $5.00).

DownEast Basics recently sent me two items from their fall line to review – the Closer Look Cardigan ($24.99) and the Out and About Skirt ($33.99):

downeast basics closer look cardigan out and about skirt Are you down with DownEast Basics?

Here’s a close-up of the skirt:

downeast basics out and about skirt orange Are you down with DownEast Basics?

And me in the sweater (Thanks to my cosmetologist sister Kathryn for doing my make-up for all these shots. She just started her first job at a salon and clearly has a knack for it.):

me october 20091 Are you down with DownEast Basics?

The Closer Look Cardigan is soft, easy to wear in hot or cool weather, and has that slouchy look that is all the rage this season. The sweater extends beyond the hips and has two mini front pockets.

The Out and About Skirt, on the other hand, is excellent for petite types like me because the A-line is flattering and the length is just right. The corduroy is lightweight, yet perfect for fall – and the tiers are just plain fun. And I already told you I’m all about the orange this fall. As such, I’m loving the pumpkin-inspired hue of this skirt.

YOUR TURN: How much money do you generally spend on new clothing pieces?

WIN IT! One winner will receive the Closer Look Cardigan ($24.99) and Out and About Skirt ($33.99) by DownEast Basics. To enter, leave any topic-related comment on this post prior to Sunday, November 8th at 11:59 p.m. (Don’t forget to follow the rules…all generic comments like “Enter me!,” “Love it,” and “Cool stuff!” will be disqualified.).