A fashion designer picks 8 easy pieces to transform your wardrobe this Memorial Day

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Leggings, sandal, black dress, red sunglasses, luggage — Outfit yourself for summer this Memorial Day, then relax: You’re ready for anything. (Photo: Amazon)

Yes, the sun is shining, but the sales are also popping, especially at Amazon’s massive Memorial Day clothing sale. As a fashion designer in New York City, I know not to miss that opportunity. I can save you some time, though, with amazing affordable picks that will solve your fashion dilemmas all year long. Skeptical? You can get the full ensemble above, including the adorable luggage to tote it in, for about $250.

If you have Amazon Prime, you’ll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $25 or more.)

The items below can be mixed and matched to give you plenty of outfit choices and make you look chic as can be without even trying. Whether you’re home or on vacation, the trick is to go monochromatic. Allow me to demonstrate…

Table of Contents

1. A black maxi dress

The first thing to buy is a new black maxi dress. I have two for you to try depending on your body type. Both are great, so just consider your figure. Or buy both since they are on sale for $25 and $26! A black maxi can take you from the beach or a picnic to a concert, dinner or BBQ. It’s hard to go wrong.

If you’re pear-shaped, try this jersey shirtwaist from 12CRAZY.

A model wearing a black A-line maxi dress. — The ideal maxi dress for pear-shaped women. (Photo: Amazon)

$29 with coupon ~~$30~~ at Amazon

If you’re apple-shaped, try this Yahoo reader favorite from Grecerelle, which features pockets, a sexy split up the leg and a flattering detail on the back.

A back view of a model in a black maxi dress from Grecerelle. — The ideal maxi dress for apple-shaped women. (Photo: Amazon)

$26 ~~$33~~ at Amazon

2. The perfect accessory — a new belt (or two)

Your new maxi can look completely different when you dress it up with a few key accessories. While you’re at the pool or the picnic, wear the maxi as is. But, if you want to level it up a notch I recommend trying a contrasting belt in either white or a rich cherry red.

The Chic Diary braided tassel belt is a terrific option to wear with either dress above. Pull it close to the body and create a little blouson, or sling it lower on the Grecerelle and have more of a chic boho look.

White Skinny Woven Tassel Belt — Leather tassels for a look that’s casual but chic. (Photo: Amazon)

$14 at Amazon

The Alaix belt has a late 1980s feel that I dig. It’s structured and playful while also dramatic against your new black maxi.

Red leather belt with a tie-knot closure. — Channel the 80’s with this vibrant red belt. (Photo: Amazon)

$16 ~~$19~~ at Amazon

The Grace Karin stretch cinch belt is a good option if you’re going for a more classic French look. And it’ll be darling with a matching shoe which brings me to my next pick…

White faux-snakeskin belt. — A little faux snakeskin goes a long way. (Photo: Amazon)

$14 at Amazon

3. A sexy shoe

Red strappy sandals on a model. — A red hot shoe for summer. (Photo: Amazon)

These strappy wedges from Dream Pairs, which give you a little lift while still providing comfort, are available in both white and red to coordinate with your lovely new belt. Plus, they’ll do double duty with your new drapey tshirts, which are next on the list.

$38 at Amazon

4. Versatile flowy tops

Both of these tops offer pretty details and a loose fit. Wear them as is over your new black leggings (see below) or belt them up to pair with a summer skirt already in your closet. I would buy the tank and tee in both black and white and wear the black tank one day with the red belt and red shoes out to dinner, and then the white tee the next day, with the same leggings and a pair of white ballet flats.

This wildly popular tee from Wiholl features a petal split sleeve.

Model wearing white tshirt and jeans. — Almost 10,000 fans give this tee a perfect rating. (Photo: Amazon)

$21 at Amazon

This tank by Xieerduo boasts pretty lace trim.

Model wearing black top with lace details. — Lace trim goes from day to night. (Photo: Amazon)

$21 at Amazon

5. A casual flat

A pair of white shoes with ankle straps. — An ankle strap adds a bespoke detail to these flats. (Photo: Amazon)

If you don’t already own white ballet flats I highly recommend this chic pair. You are going to love how they elevate your everyday look. These feature an ankle strap that adds a nice detail.

$35 ~~$51~~ at Amazon

6. A pair of classic leggings

Model wearing black tummy-control leggings. — Tummy-control leggings go with everything. (Photo: Amazon)

Grab a three-pack of these buttery soft high-waisted leggings for just $21. That’s only 7 bucks a pair for this fan-favorite set. If it’s a hot weekend, you’ll have a couple of spares. The high waist is both chic and holds your tummy in nicely. Buy the black for sure.

$21 at Amazon

7. Sunglasses are a must

Red Jackie O style sunglasses. — Glam it up, Jackie O style. (Photo: Amazon)

For a little extra oomph, try red sunglasses — that old Hollywood look is so irresistible. EFE classic oversized polarized sunglasses are $14 with the on-page coupon, which is less than I paid for my turkey sandwich in New York City yesterday! No, I am not kidding. I enjoyed my turkey sandwich for about 15 minutes in between meetings, but you can wear these for years to come at the same price.

$14 with coupon ~~$17~~ at Amazon

8. The striking bag to tote it all

Leopard print suitcase. — Nothing says style like a leopard print. (Photo: Amazon)

You’re going to toss all these items into the most adorable sale find ever, the leopard suitcase from Rockland. For $61 it is the steal of a lifetime — saving you 62%! And when you get to your destination you can close your eyes, reach into your suitcase and pull out any two of your new purchases — I guarantee you can wear them together.

Happy Memorial Day!

$61 ~~$160~~ at Amazon