The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Simply Vera Vera Wang Revisited: Gotta Love the Shoes

Simply Vera Vera Wang Gladiators

It's been a while since I've posted anything about Vera Wang's affordable collection for Kohl's, Simply Vera Vera Wang, and I think it's time to revisit the subject. First, I must say that I've defended this line's prices for far too long: It's too freakin' expensive! There, I said it. Sure, you can score great deals on this stuff when it's on sale (I almost bought a lovely LBD yesterday for $19 but figured I didn't really need it). And yes, combined with Kohl's' legendary coupons and Kohl's credit card discounts, those great deals can become great bargains. But I still experience sticker shock each time I look at those full price numbers, especially the $100 nylon handbags and $50 thin polyester blouses.

Having said that, I still love Vera and I think you'd be hard pressed to find another collection as creative and artsy anywhere else for much less. Simply Vera is also targeted towards a more mature female audience, and I think there's some great office wear and a nice range of sizes, something which can't be said for, say, Target's GO International collections.

Simply Vera Vera Wang

On a positive note, I am often impressed by the tasteful Simply Vera Vera Wang shoe offerings. They're not perfect, but they provide a stylish, structured counterpoint to the more billowy, deconstructed looks that make up the clothing collection. Here are some photos I snapped during yesterday's trip—those navy patent wedges were calling my name! Also loved the pewter gladiator sandals, sadly, the straps were too loose and didn't provide enough stability when walking.

Are you a Simply Vera fan? What are your thoughts on the collection now that it's been around for a year and a half? (More photos after the jump...)


Today at Gilt: Giambattista Valli, Azaara, Gryson, Alexander McQueen Men's




Today's sales at Gilt Groupe include Giambattista Valli, Azaara jewelry, and Gryson handbags. Sorry for the late notice, I was out shoveling snow (got a good 8 inches and it's still falling). Ladies should be sure to check out the McQueen men's sale too, I missed out on an awesome skull scarf (which is obviously unisex)! Argh. All sales start today, Monday 3/2 at 12 PM ET. Use this link to join the sales: http://www.gilt.com/invite/budgetbabe

Win Cool Stuff: Diamond Stud Earrings from Ice.com


And the winner is... #37 Justine, who writes "With diamonds as both my birthstone (April) and my zodiac stone (Aries) I have had a long lived love affair with them. It's the sparkle, the class, general joie de vive they inspire." Congratulations to our winner and special thanks to Ice.com for making this giveaway possible!

Please note: This contest has now closed.

Bling alert: We've teamed up with the fabulous folks from the jewelry store Ice.com to give one lucky Budget Babe reader the chance to win a stunning pair of 1/4 carat stud diamond earrings set in beautiful 14k white gold!

Diamond solitaire studs are the perfect accessory for every occasion, casual or sophisticated, and ICE.com is the perfect place to purchase rings, watches, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, diamonds and other special gifts with a savings of up to 70 percent off retail.

To enter, visit Ice.com, then tell us why you think diamonds are a girl's best friend in the comment section below. Good luck ladies!!

Be sure to use a valid email address and include info(at)thebudgetbabe.com in your address book so we can contact you if you're the winner. Comments must be posted by 12 midnight ET on Friday March 6 to be eligible to win. One reader will win a pair of 1/4 Carat Diamond 14K White Gold Stud Earrings (Estimated retail value: $300; ICE.com price: $150). Winner will be chosen at random, and will be announced on Saturday March 7.