The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Look for Less: Miss Me Sequined Hoodie


I go back and forth with these sequined hoodies—seems like they're everywhere these days—but with the holidays coming up, I'm beginning to think they're a great way to dress up without all the fuss. And since we found a budget-version of Miss Me's sequined hoodie, you can indulge without all the guilt. In terms of styling, you could play up the urban vibe and wear yours with kicks, or go dressier with dark jeans and heels. Luxe, laid-back and best of all, cheap! Find out where to cop yours after the jump.

H&M Taps Matthew Williamson for Next Collab


British designer Matthew Williamson has been named as the latest fashion talent to join forces with H&M. Williamson, who burst onto the London fashion scene in 1997, will launch his first women's wear collection for spring in H&M stores worldwide next April. A-list fans of Williamson's exuberant, boho-chic aesthetic include Sienna Miller, Keira Knightley, Kate Hudson and Gwyneth Paltrow. The question is, will he win our hearts too? I'm not that familiar with his work but I expect we'll see a lot of bright colors and beading. Thoughts?

Look for Less: Theory Colorblock Dress




I keep noticing these amazing colorblock dresses by Theory, and I guess I'm not the only one: Forever 21 has a colorblock dress (above right) that looks a lot like Theory's "Whitika" dress (above left). Depending on the strength of your budget (or your willpower), either dress would make a great addition to your wardrobe. Create a simple yet sexy look for that holiday office party by pairing your colorblock frock with black tights, heels—like these spectator booties from Charlotte Russe ($26.99)—and a chic cover-up—like this knit shrug from Forever 21 ($17.80). Add your favorite accessories and you'll be the best-dressed girl in the room. What do you think?

Luxe on left: Theory "Whitika" Dress, Was $295 Now $88.50
Less on right: Forever 21 Colorblock Dress, $22.80

First Look: Hayden-Harnett for Target




Target has tapped Brooklyn-based accessories brand Hayden-Harnett to do an exclusive line for spring 2009—and we have pictures! This might just be my favorite accessories collab to date. Styles, which include modern-vintage clutches, smart-chic totes and a boldly patterned umbrella, range in price from $19.99 to $44.99. I've got my eye on the "Double Flap Bags" and the "Hobo," which is pleasantly reminiscent of Foley + Corinna's mid-city tote (my favorite bag ever). Can't wait to check these out in person on December 28, when the Hayden-Harnett for Target collection will hit Target stores and Target.com. See the complete collection after the jump.

[Above: Flight Tote in Multicolor $49.99]


Look for Less: Juicy Couture Coat




I know, I know. In yesterday's post, I said Juicy Couture was becoming less and less "cool," and here I am today featuring a Juicy Couture velvet trim coat. A girl can change her mind, can't she? I was browsing the outerwear options over at Shopbop.com and discovered Juicy has some really cute coats. I think that the Juicy garb that's emblazoned with the Juicy logo, or anything that has the word "J-U-I-C-Y" stamped on it in big letters has become passé (and was never in good taste to begin with.) But, I gotta say, they continue to offer plenty of logo-free clothing that is super cute and quite tempting. Just wish it was cheaper...so here we found a Forever 21 coat (above right) that has the same spirit as the ladylike Juicy coat (above left) without the hefty price tag. What do you think?

Luxe on left: Juicy Couture velvet trim coat at Shopbop.com, $478

Less on right: Miranda wool coat at Forever21.com, $54.80