The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Foley + Corinna Fall 2010 Handbag Collection Preview

Foley + Corinna Fall 2010 Handbag Collection Preview

Last week I was invited to preview the Foley + Corinna Fall 2010 Handbag Collection in New York City. I jumped on the opportunity to see what's in store for this luxe handbag brand because, despite the fact that Foley + Corinna is not "budget", I've been a huge fan of their signature Mid-City Tote for years and someday hope to own one of my own. Le sigh. As you'll see from my pics, the Fall 2010 collection takes a dark turn as classic silhouettes are reinterpreted to include details like slashed leather and edgy metal hardware like chains, buckles and studs. The color palette was predominantly black save for a few faux snakeskin prints in beige or silver metallic. If you love seeing their bags in bright colors like magenta, red or camel, snag one in stores like Bloomingdale's or shopbop.com now because these colors will be sparse come fall. Prices range from about $200 to $550. Keep reading to see the complete collection!

The Look for Less: Franco Sarto Perforated Leather Wedges




Franco Sarto at ShopStyle


Now on sale for $69.99, these Franco Sarto "Grape" perforated leather wedges are nearly sold out at lordandtaylor.com. A stylish yet comfy shoe that will go great with shorts or skirts this summer.


Get the look for less with these Merona Maribel Peep-Toe Wedge Shoes, available in tan, pale blue, lavender or black for $23.99 on sale at target.com. Check out this earlier post to see what the Maribel looks like in real life.

Modern Retro: SWATCH Launches Colour Codes Collection


Modern Retro: SWATCH Launches Colour Codes Collection

Swiss brand Swatch is getting in touch with their roots for their latest collection of 10 plastic watches, each in one solid color, called the Colour Codes Collection. I'll admit I have a soft spot for Swatch—after all, they're the original plastic watch brand, known for their funky designs, affordable prices and reliability, but I haven't owned one in ages. Back in the day I had a Swatch that commemorated the Summer Olympics and another that was hot orange and looked like a parking ticket. Random. Anyways, watches in the Colour Codes collection cost $50 and you can get details here.

Do you think Swatch watches are still cool, or making a comeback?

Ask BB: Where to Buy A Stylish White Dress for Graduation





from left: Chiffon Dress, $159; Shantung Dress, $135; Chiffon Halter, $135


I am graduating this spring from a nice private school, and we are asked to wear completely white (not ivory or off-white) dresses. I figured I would ask now since spring is here and there may be more white dresses than if I asked later near the summer. It should be a formal dress, not cotton or any other lightweight fabrics. I don't want to spend more than $100 on it too. I feel like I've looked everywhere but I was hoping you could have more luck than me. —Amanda

Try David's Bridal. Prices start at $99 for all-white graduation dresses and you can get free shipping until May 31 with code GOGRADS. Honestly, I spent days scouring the internet trying to find classy white dresses that were reasonably priced and David's Bridal was a surprise hit. They have a great selection of tasteful styles ranging from J. Crew-esque classics to frocks with more of a BCBG designer-inspired vibe. You'll look polished, chic and proud to be around friends and family alike on your big day. The future looks bright!

Ann Taylor Fall 2010 Collection Preview - Accessories


At the Ann Taylor Fall 2010 Collection preview event, opulent accessories could be found not only on the lovely models, but also artfully displayed upon stacks of old books, mirrored trays and even glass cake stands along the length of a long wooden table in the center of Ace Hotel lobbey. It was an inspiring way to showcase these feminine, luxe-looking pieces with an heirloom vibe that will no doubt be as popular for dressing up a little black dress as a sharply tailored suit.