To be honest I haven’t thought of The Limited since high school, when I’d spend the entirety of my weekends strolling aimlessly at the local mall. I’m sure the brand has Manhattan outposts, but I couldn't tell you where a single one is located. Regardless, the mainstream retailer recently caught the eye of Coutorture, and I have to agree with the fashion blog’s estimation that The Limited is stepping up its game. And it’s good timing, seeing as with Topshop’s arrival stateside, and the recession’s beginning to take a toll on high street retailers, fast fashion appears poised to be put back in check a bit.

As for The Limited, from the looks of their spring look book, this season is all about equally affordable and wearable items that channel most of 2009’s dominant trends. Styles include: tribal jewelry, pencil and printed skirts paired with slim-fitting blazers, and statement necklaces or scarves (very Michelle Obama). There’s also a toned-down harem pant that looks more wearable than the M.C. Hammer-appropriate versions designers are putting out this season. The only real letdown is the names for the looks in question (“Traveling Diva,” “Sophisticated Sightseer,” and “Exotic Edge” included). But don’t mind the cheesy monikers. The real appeal here is relatively inexpensive garments that not every girl in SoHo is going to be sporting come summertime.