The Budget Babe

As promised, here are some additional photos from the Rachel Rachel Roy launch celebration + fall collection preview that I attended Wednesday night. Check out the line at Macy's in August!

Continue reading "More Pics: Rachel Rachel Roy ... »

Last night I attended the Rachel Rachel Roy launch celebration in NYC where I was invited to preview the Fall '09 Collection which will be arriving at Macy's stores nationwide in August. I must admit, when I first saw the lookbook pics online, I wasn't super impressed as there's nothing "new" about anything in this collection. But after seeing the goods in person I can say with certainty—this collection is hot! The quality is there, the attention to detail is readily apparent and overall, the collection looks pricey and high-end.

While the design aesthetic is decidedly urban and edgy (lots of studs, exposed zippers, graffiti prints and black), what Rachel Roy has managed to do is transcend stereotypes and create a cohesive collection that will appeal to a wide range of women from diverse backgrounds. I won't say "all" women (who really wants that?), but certainly any confident, ambitious woman who loves fashion yet wants wearable styles that will fit her lifestyle. I feel like I'm throwing cliches out left and right but it's true!

The shoes and handbags are especially attractive (they're actually being supplied by Nine West, another Jones Apparel Group brand which is the company spearheading the whole Rachel Rachel Roy collection), as was the jewelry. Lots of "tough" pieces that aren't really my personal style, but I can see lots of girls clamoring for this stuff. Best part: The line will retail from $59 to $299 for sportswear, $79 to $199 for footwear, $40 to $195 for jewelry and $69 to $109 for handbags. Very reasonable, and we all know Macy's has good sales and treats regular customers, especially Macy's card holders, very well in terms of coupons & promotions.

Keep reading for more photos, and check back later for more pics (I was a little trigger happy, hehe)...

Continue reading "Rachel Rachel Roy Launch ... »

Since "rompers" are a new item this season, I'd like some help finding one that's right for me. I am 5'4" and very much a curvy girl. I've been shopping around for a romper that I can dress up for night life and can't seem to fit into any of the size large or even extra-large. Help! I love the look and think I can make it work by finding the right one. — Kim, NYC

Rompers, jumpsuits—whatever you want to call them—are definitely hot this season, especially in your hometown (I spotted at least 5 on my last trip). Here are some options that will help you make the look your own:

This romper reads more like sleek dress shorts and a delicate blouse, but the one-piece styling gives it a high fashion edge. [Black Ruffle-Front Knit Sleeveless Romper, $48 at Torrid.com]

This dark denim romper can be dressed up or down. Think vintage ankle boots for day, strappy heels for night. [Torrid Smocked-Back Dark-Wash Romper, $58 at Torrid.com]

Continue reading "Ask BB: Plus-Size Rompers on ... »

More Dolce Vita...

The tear-drop detail and adjustable slingback strap on these Dolce Vita Olive Patent Leather T-Straps make this sandal a chic flip-flop alternative. Available in Coral, White Patent, Gold Patent, Pewter Patent, Lime Patent, they're now $49.99 at Lord & Taylor.


And since I'm all about options... Target is carrying a very similar style this season, the Merona Eleora Flat Sandals, which sell for $17.99 and come in 9 different colors: Green patent (shown here), pink, blue, gold, white, pewter, black, brown and tortoise.


Lulu's has a similar look for less, too: It's the Go Max Icon-01 Black Key Hole Thong Sandal, $22, available in black, ivory or silver.

Any takers?

If you're into the whole preppy-college-student vibe embodied by Sperrys shoes, then you'll probably want the real deal. These Sperry Top-Sider "Bahama" Boat Shoes go for $60 at Macys.com and come in a wide variety of bougie color combos such as Pink Madras, Nantucket Red Sailboats and Chino/Oyster.


If you merely want to play the part of a prepster for a season, then check out these beauties from Forever 21. Their Mariner Boat Shoes, available in either tan/pink or tan/purple, will suit all your nautical needs for the affordable price of $18.80. Super!