The Budget Babe

Going braless may be the norm on runways and the red carpet...but what about in real life?



Featured above: Georgette Halter Dress, $39.50, part of the new Neon Nights collection at Old Navy.

SPREAD YOUR WINGS Take a cue from Alexander McQueen (who took his cue from Mother Nature) and transform your Spring wardrobe with some unexpectedly stylish butterflies.

Clockwise from top left: Butterfly Print Dress at Topshop.com, £40.00; Metallic Butterfly Tunic at Forever21.com, $22.80; Gold Butterfly T-shirt at Forever21.com, $15.80; Embroidered Butterfly Satin Top at Forever21.com, $24.80; In Background: Butterfly Cotton Scarf at Forever21.com, $5.80; Butterflies Necklace at Topshop.com, Now £12.50.

Hills girl Heidi's look is all just a bit too much...the curls...the tan...the big watch and even bigger heart pendant - make it STOP! But then, what's this? Gold peep-toe heels? Me likey. And the plush pink hue of her dress? Hey, that's not so bad either. Even the lace trim is starting to grow on me. Maybe, just maybe, Miss Montag is on to something...

From top: Ameerah Babydoll Dress at Forever21.com, $27.80; Shirred V Neck Dress at Forever21.com, Now: $19.84; Aston Pump at Forever21.com, $22.80

American designer Rogan Gregory is next in line for Target's GO International. Gregory is a former Gap designer and 2008 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award winner with three of his own socially-conscious labels: his eponymous Rogan collection, ethical T-shirt label EDUN, and Loomstate, featuring all-organic tees and jeans.

What's unique about Rogan for Target is that all the cotton used is 100% certified organic. So while the styles themselves aren't exactly jaw-dropping, it's affordable, eco-friendly stuff we could easily wear every day. I'm dying to get my hands on an organic bamboo and hemp hoodie, and can't wait to see if the jeans will have that trademark fit which Gregory's pricey line is so well-known for. Plus, we're just happy that fast fashion is going green(ish).

The collection launches on Target.com/go and at most Target stores nationwide on May 18, 2008, and will be available through June 28. Scroll down for more pics...and tell us what you think in the comments.

I like to think I'm a free spirit at heart, but I can't say I've ever felt the urge to wear tie dye to make that point. Still, I'll try almost anything once (stress: almost), and these tie dye halters are starting to grow on me (number III is more dip dye than tie dye, but whatev). Forever 21's take (center) is my favorite for those rich emerald green hues - and because I don't want to invest too much in a trend that might be here today, gone tomorrow...

I. Young Fabulous & Broke Tie Dye Twist T-Bar Back Jersey Dress at ASOS.com, $392.58
II. Tie Dye Chiffon Halter at Forever21.com, $27.80
III. French Connection Pretty Grunge Dress at fcuk.com, $178.00

If you're fond of that elite-chic mid-winter vacation vibe that's the hallmark of resort wear, then Diane von Furstenberg's Love Knot Sandal is for you: Thin gold straps link to a statement-making love knot on a discreet wedge to create the perfect shoe to pair with those maxi dresses and caftans you might wear in the islands.

If, on the other hand, you'd simply like to bring a bit of the beach to your own backyard, then you'll love Aerosole's Soul Mate Thong. Comfortable styling, a chic metallic hue, and a wallet-friendly price makes this sandal your passport for summer fun wherever you are.

>> Left: DVF Love Knot Thong Sandal at Cusp.com, $265.00
>> Right: Aerosoles "Soul Mate" Thong at Macys.com, $69.00

Save as much as 40% off dresses, contemporary, sportswear, designer shoes and handbags during the Neiman Marcus First Call Sale. Click here to shop. >>