Classic Spring Wardrobe Additions From Ralph Lauren, $100 And Under

Since the recession became the most popular newsmaker around here, we’ve been hearing a lot of “Save on trends! Spend on classics!” which is true, to some extent, but we’re getting tired of saying it. Here’s today’s version: Save on classics. Well-made, Ralph Lauren classics. Ha! We win!

Ralph Lauren’s iconic skinny polo ($50, was $75) has that magical mesh weave that’s more forgiving than plain old jersey. And it comes in just about every color human eyes can differentiate.

These square sunglasses ($89) are big but not too big, and don’t scream “BRAND” on the side.

A pastel linen shirt ($60, was $85) can be worn crisp and tucked in at work, and casually undone for beachside cocktails (maybe both in the same day, when we move to Key West).