Got six grand to spend on your vacation wardrobe? Me neither. Which is why I have to take the Wall Street Journal to task. Over the weekend, I read an article titled, “What to Wear Where” in the newspaper’s Off Duty section. It’s a full-page spread laying out what to pack when traveling to Africa, Switzerland (for a quick ski weekend, no less), the Caribbean, or Hawaii. To further the fun, the piece includes images of celebrities in said destinations, dressed exactly as we should dress should we go. Oh to live the life of a celebrity. If you’re spending a cool 6k on clothes, what the heck are you spending on the trip?

I know publications create these lists to give us mere mortals a glimpse of some far off, fantasy lifestyle that we most likely will never achieve (and perhaps to boost ad revenues). But would it kill them to toss a few affordable options into the mix?

Honestly, if I had six thousand dollars kicking around, I wouldn’t spend it on clothes and accessories (a $495 tote bag?). I’d spend it on airline tickets to Buenos Aries, Morocco or some other far flung destination. There, I’d splurge on local cuisine, a fantastic massage and a couple of killer adventures. And, yes, I might want to purchase a few new pieces to fill out my suitcase, but I doubt I’d drop $900 for a belt to wear with my swimsuit (seriously?).

I’m sure there are WSJ readers ordering the suggested $800 winter boots right now, but I’m also willing to bet there are readers like me, eager to see some realistic (read: bargain priced) alternatives. After all, aren’t we in a depression/recession/economic funk?

I’m going to spend some time this week pulling together alternatives. Until then, here are a few to get you started. And, on a side note, a $2,200 jumpsuit is ridiculous not only because of the price, but because it’s a jumpsuit. It was cheesy then; it’s cheesy now. Some things are simply meant to fade from memory…

The SMS List – What to Wear Without Breaking the Travel Budget

Athleta Swimsuits. I love the swimsuits from Athleta. They’re designed for action, so they fit well and stay put. Plus their super cute. Tops and bottoms are sold separately, so a good fit is pretty much guaranteed. Most pieces under $75. http://athleta.gap.com/browse/category.do?cid=46658

Still at Athleta, this dress is adorable and at just at $89, it feels like a steal. Roll it up, pack it and go. No wrinkles, no hassles, no $415 price tag.

You’re loving the retro, Hollywood feel of the WSJ piece, but not the bottom line, right? No worries. Boden has the perfect little tunic that will have you feeling every bit the1960s starlet. Simply tie a scarf around your head and add some Jackie O shades and you’re good to go. $88

Need some fun, kicky sneakers that will work with shorts and a skirt? Check out the affordable, colorful selection from Gola. I picked up a pair of the Quotas in orange when in Los Angeles this fall. They’re a fresh and flirty take on the usual rubber-soled shoe. $39 to $55