The Budget Babe

Summer seems to bring out both the best and the worst in us when it comes to fashion. On the one hand, we have flirty sundresses, strappy sandals and wide-brimmed hats. On the other hand, we have Daisy Dukes, unkempt feet in flip-flops and exposed bra straps (or worse). So don't get caught on the wrong side of the sartorial tracks—stay on the sunny side of summer style with the following suggestions...

• Flip-flops should not be worn to the office. Honestly, your co-workers don't want to see that. That's not to say you can't wear other sandal styles, just be conscious of the professional culture in your workplace when selecting a shoe.


• While we may offend some of our vertically-challenged fashionista friends with the following piece of advice, it must be said that platform flip-flops are one of summer fashion's biggest disasters. Sure, they elevate your toes from the nitty-gritty of city streets, but they look ridiculous. If you crave height, try a stylish wedge (or a stylish platform for that matter). But please, do not wear platform flip-flops. They're so Britney. We think that says it all.


• Which brings us to the pedicure: it is not necessary to get a pedicure in order to make your feet look presentable. In fact, announcing that you "reeeeally need a pedicure" is no excuse for unkempt feet. That's like saying, "my hair is filthy because I haven't been to the hairdresser in weeks" or "my teeth are rotting because I haven't been to a dentist in months." People, it's basic hygiene. When did we adopt the idea that you have to shell out $30 for someone else to make your feet look presentable? If you're between pedis, you still need to take the time to exfoliate and moisturize your feet, as well as trim your toenails. Nailpolish is optional.


• Another big fashion no-no is the ankle bracelet, or anklet. The only person who should be wearing an ankle bracelet this summer is Paris Hilton under house arrest. Skip the anklets, they're tacky and have yet to become chic.


• Finally, just because it's hot doesn't mean you can walk around half-nekked. Layers tank tops if necessary to cover bra straps, overexposed cleavage and midriffs. Skip the shorts shorts unless your thighs are the size of pipe cleaners. And be aware of see-through fabrics for skirts, dresses and anything white.

We budget babes may fly economy, but we know how to look first-class! Here are some tips to help you dress for style, comfort and convenience when you're traveling by air:

• Dress in layers. Start with a smooth, long cami or tank followed by a cardigan or zippered hoodie, and if necessary, top with a stylish trench, blazer or our personal favorite: the poofy vest. Peel off as temperatures rise and fall (because you know they will!).


• Opt for dark colors. If you spill your pudding cup on your lap, it won't show up as much.


• Wear smooth, cotton undergarments. Avoid bras with lace that can itch or underwires that can stab. Save the see-through mesh thong for another time, too.


• Do not wear sweats or tracksuits (the horror!). Your comfort shouldn't come at the cost of offending other passengers. Personally, we wear our favorite weekend jeans—the structure of denim seems to aid circulation to our legs better than shapeless sweats anyways.


• Wear comfy shoes that slip on and off with ease. Some good choices are fashion sneaks, loafers, ballet flats or even clogs. Avoid heels and sandals. And be sure to wear socks so your tootsies don't touch the nasty airport floor when you're going through security and have to remove your shoes.


• Skip wearing a belt or any jewelry that can jab you when you're trying to get some Zs.


• Carry a medium to large size handbag that doubles as your carry-on luggage. Make sure it closes securely so your personal items don't spill out and go rolling down the aisle.


• Bring a comfy pashmina or shawl. Toss one over your shoulders and you'll have a cozy blanket during your flight.


• Know the 3-1-1 rule when it comes to packing beauty supplies for your carry-on: 3 ounce bottle or less; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin.


• Bring a sleeping mask or oversized, dark-lensed shades. These are a godsend when you're trying to sleep. And don't worry about looking silly on the plane—worry about looking fresh and rested when you get off!

Sometimes women dress purely for themselves, sometimes they dress to impress other women, and sometimes they dress to impress their man. We scoured the net for a few fashion finds that we thought were cute, and then asked our boyfriend (who for the time being shall remain nameless) to weigh in. Mind you, our sweetie knows about as much about fashion as we know about cars—and that ain't sayin' much. Brace yourself as we go inside the male mind…


Exhibit A: Juniors' Mossimo® Red: Striped Tube Halter Dress - Coral/ Brown, $19.99 at Target.com

The Verdict: "Looks kind of like a beach towel."







Exhibit B: Wide Leg Linen Pant, $22.80 at Forever21.com

The Verdict: "Fine—they're pants."










Exhibit C: "Jayant" patent flat sandal, on sale for $65.00 at Ninewest.com

The Verdict: "They're sandals. They're regular."

It's like they read our minds: Forever21 is expanding business and adding a new affordable "luxury" line called Twelve by Twelve.

Naturally, this is a dream come true. First, because we're happy that they didn't decide to just raise prices on existing merchandise—you know, establish a loyal customer base, then raise prices once we're all hooked (the old bait 'n' switch). Second, because we were always willing to pay a tad more for Forever21 clothing if they could just come out with marginally better quality stuff. Hopefully, Twelve by Twelve will deliver!

Twelve by Twelve is priced about thirty-five percent higher than Forever 21’s usual ensemble, but each piece will cost less than $100.

“Forever 21 is fast fashion, it’s quick-turn, young and fun,” said Betsy Zanjani, vice president of merchandising for the project, “whereas Twelve by Twelve is a grouping of items designed to go together, to be worn together. It will be a little bit more sophisticated, much more luxury.”

Twelve by Twelve will launch its own Web site (twelvebytwelve.com) later this month, followed by 10 to 15 in-store boutiques at already existing Forever 21 stores. A stand-alone Twelve by Twelve shop is set to open by fall at the Beverly Center in Los Angeles.

UPDATE 9/26/07: Twelve By Twelve Now Available in Select Stores and Online!

Add some fun to your summer wardrobe with the perfect warm weather accessory: the tote. You won't be able to get away with one these bad boys in the winter, so take advantage of the flirty colors, unique textures and quirky prints that give summer totes their flair.


Show you have a sense of humor with this Jacobs by Marc Jacobs cotton canvas tote. The catch: it's only available in Marc Jacobs stores, but if you can get to one near you, you'll be rewarded by the $12 price tag.


Yummy orange and pink beach tote from Oldnavy.com let's you treat yourself for only $14.50.


We've had a soft spot for this richly colored Mexican blanket print ever since we took a trip to the Yucatan. Get the tote, on sale for $19.99, at Urbanoutfitters.com.


This vinyl tote is trendy and hip and we love the bright yellow. Keep contents simple and clean and you'll be chic carrying this full-exposure clear tote from Forever21.com, $26.80.


We're super impressed with the offerings from handbag designer Rafe for Target, and this Printed Straw Basket Bag is no exception. Scoop it up at Target.com for $39.99.