The Budget Babe

BFFs Cameron Diaz and Drew Barrymore have both been spotted carrying the Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Tote in black quilted patent leather with a wickedly stylish crocodile pattern. No doubt each star probably has her own, but it got me thinking...what if you and a trusted gal-pal were to go halfsies on a bag you both desired? You split the cost, and split the time each of you gets to bag-sit. Trouble may arise if you both need the bag on the same evening, or if you go absolutely everywhere together, but those are details that could be worked out. Anyways, I'd never suggest you co-own the original YSL bag, which costs a whopping $1,395.00, meaning you'd each pay $697.50 if my math is correct. Instead, get a similar-looking faux-leather croc tote from Accessory Bug (above center). At $51.99, you can each afford to get your own.

>> Black Tribute Faux Patent Croc Leather Tote at Accessorybug.com, $51.99. For a limited time, use coupon code skool08 for an additional 10% off any purchase. Offer ends October 31st.

Cowl-Neck Dress, $34.50; Silk Ruffle Top, $29.50; Denim Pencil Skirt, $32.50; Color-Block Top, $26.50, "Diva" Wide-Leg Denim Trousers, $32.50

Old Navy Women's Plus is no longer carried in stores, a move that alienated a lot of their customers. Instead, it's now offered exclusively online and features the latest fashions designed specifically for sizes 16-30. The good news is that the online store provides an expanded selection of fashion apparel that help stylish gals go from work to weekend and day to night – all at great, Old Navy prices. A classic, feminine vibe prevails throughout the new Fall Collection, which includes comfortable, sophisticated wide-leg trousers, chic tops with interesting details, and jewel-box colors that range from inky blues and purples to green and bold citron. Shop the entire line at: www.oldnavy.com/plus


Ruched-Neck Dress $36.50; Flutter-Sleeve Top $29.50, Lace Jersey-Knit Cami, $12.50, "Flirt" Flared Jeans, $32.50; Pleated-Shoulder Top, $29.50, "Diva" Denim Trousers, $36.50.


3/4-Sleeve Silk Top, $32.50, "Diva" Clean-Front Jeans, $36.50; Burnout-Stripe Cardigan, $22.50, Waffle-Knit Tank, $16.50, "Flirt" Wide-Leg Denim Trousers, $36.50; Ruffle-Collar Top, $22.50, Pleated Skirt, $36.50