I recently went on a girls' trip with four of my high school friends and we had a blast. They are always so stylish, and for this trip (a casual mountain getaway), one of them brought several polo tees, which she wore with everything.

Can I tell you what a fabulous idea this was? She looked so polished, whether we were relaxing on the porch, going out to eat, or climbing to the top of a waterfall.

When I asked her about the polos, she told me her secret ...

She got all of the polos on sale at T.J. Maxx!

They've since become her "summer uniform," and it struck me that this is a perfect look for moms on the go. Why not replace some of your everyday tees with inexpensive polo shirts? It's an instant upgrade to any casual outfit, whether you pair them with jeans, khaki shorts or capris, or a swingy, mid-length skirt. The key is that her polos were fitted without being tight, and very flattering.

Here are some affordable polos I found online:

If you can wear petite sizes, this Lauren by Ralph Lauren Short Sleeved Polo Shirt (Lord & Taylor, $17.49) is about the best deal going right now. (The regular sizes are pretty much sold out.) These are available in navy, yellow, black, white, pink, and orange.

Target has this cap-sleeve polo shirt (Target, $8.99) in every color under the rainbow. I'm not sure of the fit or quality of the shirt, but it's a great price!

Another great deal can be found in this baby terry polo (Talbots, $8.49 on sale) but at this price, they're going fast!

Keep an eye out for polos at the end of summer sales -- nearly everyone carries them and they're a fabulous, year-round look.

Are you into the polo trend or is it not your style?

Images (top to bottom): Lord & Taylor; Lord & Taylor; Target; Talbots