The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Luxe vs. Less: Tory Burch Patent Tote


Tory Burch knows how to make a big statement with accessories, but they typically come with a big price tag: The yummy Tory Burch 'T' Contrast Patent Tote on the left costs $325.00.

For a similar look - single-strap, oversized patent tote with a perforated design and snap closure - pick up Steve Madden's 'Bjenn' tote in pink instead. It still packs a punch but costs considerably less at just $38.

Luxe: Tory Burch 'T' Contrast Patent Tote at Nordstrom.com, $325.00
Less: Steve Madden Bjenn tote at SteveMadden.com, $38

Norma Kamali to Create Line for Wal-Mart

Ee gads! I'm speechless. Renowned American designer Norma Kamali is bringing her expertise to Wallyworld. I didn't see this coming, although come to think of it, she already has a collection for Spiegel and the lower-priced Norma Kamali for Everlast collection. But still, it's like, Diane von Furstenberg for Target or something. Eerie, right?

Either way, we like the sound of this collaboration, and yes, Wal-Mart will have effectively seduced this frugal fashionista to cross that murky consumer threshold and shop their depressing big-box once the collection hits the racks.

From WWD.com: In a deal via Cherokee Inc., Kamali will create an exclusive collection that will include women's wear, children's clothing, accessories, footwear and home items.

"Through the Wal-Mart stores and Web site I can reach more people and affect more lives than in any other venue." —Norma Kamali


Image source: WWD.com

Look for Less: Sam Edelman Flats

Buckle-toe flats

If you can afford the Sam Edelman chain-toe black flats pictured above, by all means, get them. They're smart, sexy and look great with everything. If, on the other hand, you're merely curious to test out this look—or you don't have the necessary funds—opt for the budget version instead. They're equally chic for a whole lot less cash.

Oh, but first you'll have to guess which is which...

Look for Less: BCBGirls Blue Pumps


Brights make a bold statement for Spring, especially in primary red, yellow, and blue. We think these ink-blue platform heels are the perfect way to inject some color into your wardrobe when you're feeling like black flats just won't do. So, can you guess which pair will cost you a cool $100, and which pair will merely set you back twenty bucks?

Luxe vs. Less: Phillip Lim Yellow Tank


Phillip Lim is clearly the reigning fashion muse to copycats these days, and, as illustrated by the two tops above, the imitators have absolutely no shame whatsoever. On the left, 3.1 Phillip Lim's yellow and black tank top with a petite bow, which retails for £240.00 at the UK shop Browns. On the right, Forever 21's rendition of the look for $22.80. Too close for comfort, if you ask me (although my biggest qualm with this shirt isn't that it's a blatant knockoff - it's that it's too juvenile. I love fashion that hints of youth and naivete, but this top isn't doing it for me). But what do you think? Do you like the look? Has Forever 21 crossed the line on this one, or not?

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