The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Runway to Real Way: Balmain Spring 2009


Balmain inspired looks for spring 2009

You can tell who's hot in the fashion world by looking at who's getting knocked off, and these days, Balmain is smoking. Remember those fringe ankle boots that everyone wanted back in the fall? Like it or not, it looks like this spring will bring even more Balmain fever. From strappy crystal-studded heels and bandage wrap dresses, to big shouldered blazers and ripped lightwash jeans, Balmain delivered the high-fashion looks that we'll be seeing soon on the high street.

I don't know if I'll be able to incorporate any of these elements into my personal wardrobe, but you must admit, those heels are fabulous! If I was a model, I definitely would have wanted to get booked for Balmain's spring show. Every look he dropped on that runway was fierce. Inspired by his awesomeness, I pulled together a few budget-friendly pieces that have that rock-chic spirit. Think you'll be channeling Balmain this spring?

Clockwise from top: Fornarina Studded Jean Jacket, $29.99 at 1site1price.com; C7P Super Destructed Flare, Was $50 Now $34.99 at JCPenney.com; Metallic Mesh Belt, Was $48 Now $29 at ArmaniExchange.com; "Smeal" Embellished Heels, $125 at AldoShoes.com


Look for Less: L.A.M.B. Hunter Button Strap Bootie


Chloe Bakers Strap Booties

Bakers has done it again. This time, the affordable shoe retailer has knocked-off L.A.M.B.'s "Hunter" Button Strap Bootie with a shoe they call the "Chleo," which is available in either tan or black for $79.95. I honestly can not think of an outfit that could not be complemented by either pair of shoes, but with their antique, Edwardian feel, I think they'd look amazing with something ultra-feminine and vintage Thoughts?

Left: Chleo pumps, $79.95 at BakerShoes.com
Right: L.A.M.B. Women's Hunter Button Strap Bootie, $379.95 at Endless.com

FIRST LOOK: MCQ ALEXANDER MCQEEN FOR TARGET


Nylon has first look photos of the highly anticipated Alexander McQueen Collection for Target. Using Leila Moss, the lead singer to the Duke Spirit, as his creative inspiration, McQueen turned out skinny jeans, leggings, graphic tees, a jumpsuit, and some simple dresses in a desaturated black, white and gray color palette punctuated by pops of cobalt blue and hot pink.

"I wanted my Target collection to feature key aspects of the McQ Alexander McQueen aesthetic, classic craftsmanship with a rebellious, nostalgic flare,” McQueen told NYLON. "The collection is comprised of effortless, chic menswear inspired tailored pieces that women will feel confident wearing."

Looking past the androgynous styling of these models, I can see myself rocking many of these looks, especially the dresses (LOVE the one-shoulder number in the top row). I've also got my eye on that gray jacket worn with a blue abstract print dress, and the jumpsuit (oh yes, it will be mine.)

What do you think of this collection so far? (Lots more pics below)












Spot the Gucci Studded Heels

Gucci Studded Heels

Here's some fashion frivolity to get you through the day. It's a little game I like to call "Spot the Guccis" (I made that up myself.) The studs are tough but the game is simple: All you have to do is pick out the two pairs of genuine Gucci studded heels in the photo above. You'll be quizzed later! Answers after the jump.

Guess Which Booties Cost More

Is it just me, or are shoes gradually becoming more and more...aggressive? Designers seem to be adding ever more straps, spikes, studs, whips and chains (OK, maybe not whips—yet) to our footwear. Sign of the times, I guess, and for the most part, I say bring it on. Here are two pairs of peep-toe booties that have been bound with buckles. Both are edgy and fierce, but only one is what I'd consider to be affordable. Can you guess which is which?