Whether you’re a Plain Jane or Jane Fonda, mixing pieces from different seasons will give you a resort look for a reasonable price.

Is there anything more depressing than passing a travel agency that boasts luxury cruises and flights abroad in its window display, while you, laundry bag in tow, know deep down that the closest thing you’ll get to a vacation this summer is a trip to Tasty D-Lite in Murray Hill?  Let investment bankers have their yachts - a resort ready wardrobe can be yours without spending a dime.  How, you ask?  By working with what’s in your closet, and mixing in a dash of creativity, you can cruise through the summer without leaving Manhattan.  (Unless, of course, you meet one of those darling investment bankers who offers you a ride on his charming yacht.  In that case, dears, feel free to take the wheel.)

Aviator sunglasses
Whether you prefer to rock Ray Ban or a $5 street vendor special, aviator sunglasses are smart and chic no matter what the season is.  By blocking out UV rays, you not only protect your vision, you can help prevent premature aging around the delicate eye area.  The added bonus, of course, is the ability to stare at Seventh Avenue fashion faux pas without batting an eye - or getting caught.

Wedge sandals
A pair of classic canvas wedges stays en vogue year after year.  If you’re without, consider investing in a pair:  they look fresh with skinny jeans and pencil skirts, and add a fun twist to the little black dress and high waisted shorts. 

A knit jersey dress
Let’s pose the hypothetical that you are, in fact, whisked off to someplace fabulous, where drinks are served with little pink straws and Ralph Lauren towels abound your private cabana.  You can kiss ironing goodbye.  A lightweight, knit jersey dress works well now with gladiator flats, canvas wedges (see above) or nude patent pumps; it looks great come fall with knee high riding boots or suede flats - no steaming or creasing required.  Besides, wouldn’t you rather spend your time hobnobbing with other  budget-conscious socialites?

Natural fabrics - think cotton, silk and some wools - tend to fill in the resort wear blanks best.  Layer pieces, tie on a scarf or two and add accessories where needed to charge at full steam ahead.  Just don’t forget your passport.

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