The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Gap CFDA Design Editions Khakis Collection In Stores Today


Gap CFDA Design Editions Khakis Collection

Today marks the launch of the Gap CFDA Design Editions khakis collection designed exclusively for Gap by finalists of the 2008 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund—Alexander Wang, Vena Cava and Albertus Swanepoel. The launch coincides with last night's CFDA awards, aka the Oscars of fashion, where Wang won the 2008 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund award while Lisa Mayock and Sophie Buhai (the ladies behind Vena Cava) along with Swanepoel were runners up. The collection, which ranges in price from $39.50 for a khaki fedora to $88 for a printed khaki dress, is available at www.gap.com and select Gap stores nationwide.

My two cents: I love the detailing on the Vena Cava dresses and could use that khaki moto jacket. But Alexander Wang's pleated, high-waist, tapered khaki trousers aren't exactly something my wardrobe needs at the moment. Nor am I clamoring to get my hands on one of five khaki hats. What do YOU think?

See the whole collection after the jump...

What to Wear: Summer Cruise

Earlier, I posted this exhaustive list about how and what to pack for a summer cruise. Now, here are three outfit "formulas," if you will, that show how you can take the same fashionable accessories and just mix-and-match different clothing basics to create casual yet cute looks. Click any image for product details. Which outfit would you wear?


[1] Pack jersey sundresses, lightweight cardigans and stylish yet versatile accessories to create looks that work on- and off-shore for day or night.


[2] Swap out your jersey dress for cool shorts and a drapey tank for another casual look. Add heels and layered chain necklaces for a going-out look.


[3] Pair a boho top from Ruche with cargo pants for yet another casual and cute combo. Rich colors add warmth while the black accessories keep it polished.

What to Pack for a Summer Cruise

Some of my former colleagues will be taking the trip of a lifetime this summer, namely, a 15-day Mediterranean cruise, and they've asked me for some suggestions as to what to pack. Um, how about me? Will I fit in your suitcase? But I digress. Here's a guide to help you pack for a summer vacation or summer cruise so you'll be sailing and sightseeing in style.

The plan:
1) First, pull out all your favorite pieces of clothing, shoes and jewelry that you've been wearing right now (under 10 items). Give yourself 60 seconds to conduct this little exercise, no more. If you love wearing these items at home, you'll love wearing them overseas. Avoid the temptation of digging through the back of your closet and unearthing outdated pieces you haven't worn in months. Launder your fave pieces so they're ready to go.

2) Now it's time to map out some actual outfits and fill in the gaps with versatile pieces that can work double-duty. You can either map out outfits by occasion, or go day by day. I prefer to map out outfits by occasion (ie., day of sightseeing, dinner and dancing) and be very hands-on by laying them out on the bed and moving pieces around to see how everything will work.

3) Edit, edit, edit. You want to make trekking through the airport as painless as possible, so try not to overpack. Ditch the boyfriend jeans and denim capris and pack one pair of perfect, dark-wash boot cuts. Besides, you'll want some free space in your suitcase for souvenirs. Pack a nylon tote or other lightweight bag for additional souvenir space.

Dror for Target Home Collection


Dror for Target Home Collection

Target is known for more than just stylish clothes, of course, and their latest designer collaboration for the home is with Dror Benshetrit. This exclusive limited-edition collection called Dror for Target includes bedding, decorative accessories and stationery. These smart designs are perfect for anyone looking to maximize space as many of the items collapse, fold away or serve multiple functions. I have my eye on the bookcases, which can be stacked and grouped for different storage options (a place for handbags and shoes, perhaps). The bedding and other textile designs look generic but who knows, they might impress in person. Check out the Dror for Target collection in stores this month (June 2009), with select items also available on Target.com.

[1] Purple butterfly comforter and sham set reversible to solid Twin/XL Twin $49.99, Full/Queen $59.99 sheet set purple dots on cream Twin/XL Twin $19.99/24.99, Full/Queen $29.99/39.99
[2] Bookcases (stacked) $89.99 each set
[3] Bookcase $89.99 each set
[4] Assorted decorative pillows $19.99 each
[5] Tilt task lamp $19.99
[6] Wall clock $24.99