Bedding is one of those things that's easy and affordable to switch out seasonally, and it's frequently on sale. In case you're looking for a new lightweight sheet set or a couple of colorful throw pillows, here's a good list of summer finds under $50.

• IKEA: Usually at the top of our go-to list for good deals, IKEA sells basic bedding in Scandinavian whites that are perfect for summer. You can find a full bedspread or coverlet there for less than $50.
  • Shown: Alina Bedspread and Cushion Cover, $50
• West Elm: Their organic cotton and basic bedding sets are reasonably priced, and you can get really good deals when the lines go on sale. Right now, there are a few cotton print sets on deep discount.
  • Shown: Cocoon Sheet Set, on sale — starting at $14
• Target: For low prices on bright patterned bedding, I like Target's DwellStudio line. A popular modern bedding collection, it's regularly updated with new colors and styles.
  • Shown: DwellStudio for Target Sevilla Shams, $25
• Ralph Lauren Home: I always think of Ralph Lauren as the king of summer bedding — he's got the beachy blue-and-white look down to a science. His stuff is on sale right now at RL Home and at Macy's.
  • Shown: Belle Harbor Gingham Pillowcases, on sale for $25
• Anthropologie: Right now, they have quite a few patterned cotton sheets and pillowcases on discount. Shop here for florals, graphic prints, and the occasional animal-themed throw pillow.
  • Shown: Thought Bubble Sheet Set, on sale for $15 - $40
• CB2: The hip younger sibling of Crate & Barrel always stocks bright pillows and throws that come in under the $50 mark. Check their sale section for markdowns on summer sheets as well.
  • Shown: Striped Woven Lobsta Throw, $40
• Crate and Barrel: Their new Marimekko shop-in-shop is becoming one of my first stops for bedding. Prices are reasonable for a designer brand, and they have frequent sales.
  • Shown: Marimekko Samovaari Surf Bedding, starting at $9.95 on sale
• Unison: This Chicago-based textile company usually has a few things in their sale section. Their style is strongly influenced by Scandinavian design — you'll find lots of simple but bright sheet sets and pillows.
  • Shown: Pinstripe Slate Sheets, on sale for $21
• Etsy: When you're looking for pillows in a certain pattern, check Etsy. Many sellers stock handmade pillows under $50 in prints by Amy Butler, Marimekko, Libery of London, and other designer fabrics.
  • Shown: Marimekko Bright Poppy 8 by 16 inch Pillow, $32

Photo: IKEA