The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Reader Request: Strapless LBD

A reader named Annie asked me to track down a budget-friendly version of this dress (shown at right), and as luck would have it, I just saw a similar style at Express for $59.50 (see below).

With so many colorful options for dresses at the moment, it's nice to remember that a little black dress is always flattering, always in style, and always a great value.

I love how the party-goer shown here accessorized her LBD with fringe-embellished black heels, a killer black bag and what appears to be an oversized watch or bangle. Oh, and let's not forget the perfectly coiffed hair and sunkissed tan! Very cute!




Express at ShopStyle



Got another option for Annie? Do tell!

Today Only: Hunter Original Boots Just $49.95 at 6pm.com!

The Deal: Monday 6/1 ONLY: Stylish Hunter Original Boot now only $49.95!


Why You Need It: I have been wearing my Hunter boots all spring and LOVE them! They are so chic and keep my feet comfy and dry. I can feel stylish even when I'm walking my dog or trekking around in the rain, and where I live, it rains a lot. Now's your chance to get your own pair (I'm considering buying a second) for the lowest prices anywhere online! Hurry, supplies are limited!! (Can you tell I'm excited?!)






Hunter Festival Tall Boots, Reg. $145.00 Now $49.95 (that's 66% off!)



White Hot Handbags on a Budget



CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE


One of my spring must-haves is a white handbag. I love the light and airy feel that white bags convey, plus they're an easy way to update your warm weather look—just swap one in for that heavy black or brown bag you've been lugging around all winter! You'll find they match any outfit and bring a new level of polish to your summer look.

If you're worried about keeping a white handbag looking clean and pristine, I assure you, it's easier than you'd think! Pick a white bag with non-white handles (the part of the bag you touch the most) that won't show dirt, like this Nine West Bag Habits Large Tote (marked down from $105 to $29.99!) that boasts stylish tan trim, or Aldo's "Limbiate" handbag ($45) with bright red handles and navy side panels. Or, choose a bag with interesting details that will distract the eye from any scuffs, like this uniquely charming Circle Beaded Hobo ($18.99 at CharlotteRusse.com) with textural white-on-white leather petals. And let's not forget, most budget-friendly handbags—like this gorgeous Big Buddha "Alana" Satchel ($92 at Dillard's)—are made from PVC which is a breeze to wipe clean. However, if you do want real leather, the absolute best white bag on a budget has to be Boden's Chic Leather Bag. This buttery soft bowler looks like a Louis Vuitton but only costs $198.

Finally, you can snag a white bag for $50 or less, so if you do end up dropping your white bag in some mud or squirting mustard on it at a summer bbq, it won't be the end of the world. See? No excuses.

Keep reading for more fabulous white handbags that won't break the bank...

The Look for Less: Juicy Couture Fringe Bag



Juicy Couture at ShopStyle


Long fringe wraps around this Juicy Couture "Fringe Babydoll" Hobo, making it a unique accessory albeit an expensive one for something that's most likely a passing trend. (It's $378 at Nordstrom.)



Forever 21 at ShopStyle


If you're just looking for something with a similar "boho" feel, scoop up Forever 21's "Andie" Velvet Tote. On sale now for $17.99, it's an affordable, guilt-free option that will give you your fringe fix for less.