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This week's highlights: A fab haircut doesn't require a second mortgage or months on a waiting list: These stylists are pros at budget cutting.

Alter boys: Alongside NoLIta's fashion boutiques, a satellite industry thrives: the local guys who can make those hip-huggers really hug.

Straw votes: Surf, salt, and sunblock won't wreck these grown-up sand pails -- and at these prices, you won't have to dig too deep.

Little nonblack dresses: Though you may wear these sunny summer slips every day, they're anything but basic. And they're the best way to show off a tan.

Makeup lessons: Fendi may be beyond your reach, but you needn't be left holding the bag. These under-$60 pouches perform in the clutch.

Water, water everywhere: Swimming and sunning aren't just for summer sharers. Avoid the crowds at our favorite day-rate dunks, where R&R meets H₂O.

Table for $200: Stefan Beckman sets Calvin Klein's table (in the ads, anyway). We asked him to do ours, for the summer, on a budget. You provide the iced tea.

Aqua culture: Turquoise is everywhere, from runway to desktop. So don't chase those blues away! A user-friendly guide.

Sole searching: Colorful rubber thongs scream chic, affordable summer style. Whether you go for splashy prints or appliqués, we know you'll flip for these.

String theory: Why pay a fortune for three triangles of nylon? In these colorful suits, you'll surely make a splash.