Botkier handbags for Target hit stores today (run, there's still time to check them out!). OK, so we haven't seen them in person yet but the offerings online look pretty amazing. There will always be the haters who say they're not real leather, the craftsmanship isn't there, yadda yadda, but let's keep things in perspective, shall we? These purses are extraordinarily affordable. They were designed, at least in part, by a real designer with talent. They look expensive, and they cost a fraction of the price of the authentic designer originals which honestly, who really buys that stuff anyways? 1% of the population? Who cares? All a girl wants is a cute purse to hold her cell, lip gloss and wallet. We're not asking for the Sistine Chapel. Finally, before I descend my soapbox, let me remind you that Botkier for Target purses are just as good as their competition, namely, Steven Madden or Guess purses which cost 2 or 3 times more for purses that are no better in quality, taste or style. In fact, they probably all come from the same factory in Asia. What I'm trying to say is these purses are stylish and cheap, so check them out and tell me what you think.

Featured above: Botkier for Target Metallic Wristlets, $19.99 each

I always underestimate the fashion potential of shorts, but these highwaisted dress shorts (left) from Sienna Miller's Twenty8Twelve line have me envisioning countless possibilities of chicness. But despite their high-style factor, I am reluctant to pay a lot of money for shorts. After all, they're only like, half a pair of pants if that, and therefore hardly worth $185.00 (or even the sale price of $92.50). Instead, I'm considering the pair on the right from Forever 21 for $15.80. Honestly, could you tell the difference if you paired them with a tight white tank, pricey clutch and fabulous heels? Didn't think so.

Left: Twenty8Twelve Bartus High Waisted Short at Shopbop.com, Was $185 Now $92.50
Right: High Waisted Dress Short at Forever21.com, $15.80

Many of you liked what you saw when we posted our first look at the Richard Chai for Target collection, so let's see what you think of the rest of the preview pics. I could wear everything in row 5 (love the naughty secretary vibe), can't wait to snag that gorgeous trench, and I will probably pick up at least one LBD - black usually translates well to budget fashion, making any article of clothing look pricier and classier. I also think the predominantly purple and blue color palette will be a welcome relief at the end of summer and should carry us well into the fall. What do you think?













Image source

I've been looking for something similar to Lauren Conrad's Katherine Wrap (above left, $155) or the DKNY Cozy ($195), but since these two are very pricey, of course I'm wondering if there is something similar for a portion of the price?

You've got great taste! Both of those wraps are the perfect cover-up (especially for freezing, air-conditioned offices!), very on-trend, versatile and comfortable. I think you'll get a lot of wear out of one, but of course, you want to get a deal if possible. Here are a couple options to consider:

• 
  Black Stretch Wrap Cardigan by Wish Collection at eDressMe.com (above right), $60.00
  


• 
  Banana Republic Wrap Cardigan, $59 (gray or black)
  


• 
  Lucky Brand Jeans Long Layering Cardigan, $58:
  


• 
  Merino wool cozy wrap at Bodenusa.com, $74
  


• 
  Cotton/cashmere wrap at Bodenusa.com, $63
  


• 
  ASOS chunky wrap sweater, $47.59
  


• 
  Lightweight cardigan wrap sweater at VictoriasSecret.com, $39
  

To register, use this ACTIVE WORKING link:

http://www.gilt.com/invite/budgetbabe


I recently made my first purchase from Gilt Groupe, an online sample sale website that launched back in November, and I have to say that I am seriously impressed with the quality of their merchandise and high level of service. First off, a little background: The site, which is invitation-only, holds 24-hour sales a few times per week with designer merchandise often selling out within the first hour. Gilt has featured big, big names like Just Cavalli, Vivienne Tam, Allegra Hicks, Gustto and Jill Stuart, to name a few. The selection is always impressive, as are the prices - considering the original price - but that doesn't mean we're crazy enough to buy this stuff. A Rachel Roy dress that's marked from $600 down to $300 is still three hundred dollars, people. We usually spend about $30 for a dress. Oh yes. Not more.