The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Mossimo Petrova Gladiators: Should I Get Them?




Dear readers, I need your help once again: Today, I'm lusting after this pair of Mossimo 'Petrova' Gladiator sandals, available at Target stores for $29.99 (sadly, this style is sold out online). I tried it on over the weekend and it fits really well and it's comfortable as far as 4.25" faux-stacked heels with 3/4 inch platforms go.




The shoe has gotten great reviews, plus it's just really hot. I think. The heel is really high, so these aren't the most practical of shoes, but I feel like my wardrobe is lacking "fierce" strappy heels, ya know? I always talk myself out of getting shoes like this because I can't get much wear out of them, but for $30 maybe this is the time to go for it. On the other hand, this trendy look is everywhere, and maybe I can find a better pair.

Ok, enough rambling...what do you think? Would you get these? Should I?

Beauty Review: Kiss Manicure Salon Kit

I was recently asked to review the Kiss Manicure Salon Kit of professional and portable nail tools, and this couldn't have come at a better time. For one, I have my nail-biting habit under control and I really needed the proper tools to maintain my nail shape and such.

This kit is great. It's cheap ($9.99), it's widely available at drugstores, and it will save you money on professional manicures. But if you're not willing to give up those manicures (and we all have our little indulgences), then you can actually tote this kit to the salon to keep germs at bay. Sanitary and a money-saver!

My only qualm was that the nail file grit was a little coarse for my liking. I prefer a very fine diamond dust grit for my sensitive nails. The clippers and scissors, however, are nice and sharp, which is critical. Nail clippers and scissors that aren't sharp are worthless, IMO. Also, believe it or not, I actually feel like my nails are stronger after using this kit a few times. Must be similar to trimming split ends, which helps strengthen strands of hair (I'm no beautician but this is what it seems to do.)

I don't have tons of experience in the way of manicure kits, but I've received some in the past as gifts that were totally useless, and this Kiss kit surpasses them all. The package says you can also ship back any tool for free sharpening (just pay shipping/handling). Good to know, even though I probably won't take advantage of this service (too lazy). All in all, I think the Kiss Mani Kit would make a great gift for any girlfriend or as an at home spa party gift.

Here's what's in it:

  • Nail Scissors

  • Nail Brush

  • Nail Clipper

  • Cuticle Nipper (I'm scared to use these on myself so I didn't try them, but the tool looks solid!)

  • Cuticle Pusher & Cleaner

  • 4-Way Buffer

  • Nail File

  • Manicure Sticks



The Kiss Manicure Kit is available at all major drug store chains and other mass retailers. To see the full collection, go to www.kissusa.com

Ask BB: Cute and Cheap Easter Dresses

I was wondering if you have any ideas where I can find an affordable and cute Easter dress. It would also be nice to find a dress than I can wear on a daily basis other than Easter. —Anne

Every girl loves a new Easter dress. Indulge your feminine side and stick to your budget with a cute, affordable dress that you can still wear after the last deviled egg is gone (mmmm...eggs). Here are 10 options to help you out (click any image to shop):




Old Navy at ShopStyle


1. Wear this versatile jersey dress from Old Navy with a camisole, cardigan, pretty belt and heels for Easter festivities, or with a denim jacket and white Converse sneaks for running errands. Also comes in dark blue or black at OldNavy.com, just $10!


Win Cool Stuff: BeautyTicket.com Giveaway

And the winner is... #15 Rayna! Congratulations to our winner and thanks to everyone who entered!


BeautyTicket.com giveaway

Please note: This contest is now closed. Please check back tomorrow for the winner.

Kick off your week with a chance to win beauty supplies from BeautyTicket.com, a fabulous site which brings you premium beauty brands at deep discounts! BeautyTicket.com is your VIP pass to beautiful deals. Find brands like Stila, Prescriptives, Smashbox and much more, all at drugstore prices!

But getting back to that giveaway: The prize is a makeup case by Italian luxury luggage brand Roncato surrounded by brand name beauty products* with a retail value of $100. Sweet!

To enter, post the brand(s) you would like to see at BeautyTicket.com in the comments.

Oh and one more thing: Shop now at BeautyTicket.com and save 10% off your entire order until May 1st with coupon code THEBUDGETBABE or click this link: http://beautyticket.com/index.aspx?dc=THEBUDGETBABE

Good luck!

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. Your information will NOT be shared or used for any other purpose besides contacting you if you're the winner. Comments must be posted by 12 noon ET on Saturday April 11 to be eligible to win. One lucky winner will be chosen at random, and will be announced on Monday April 13.

* Assortment may vary.