The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

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.

Ann Taylor Fall 2010 Collection Preview Event

Ann Taylor Fall 2010 Collection Preview Event

Last Thursday I was invited to preview the Ann Taylor Fall 2010 Collection at an event held in the lobby of the Ace Hotel in New York City, a location which proved to be the perfect backdrop for the clothes which mixed "European sophistication with timeless American style." The palette of mostly dark, neutral solids was punctuated with the occasional chic leopard print, brushstroke print or crisp white blouse. Everything had a luxe, ladylike feel, revealed in elegant satin, chunky knits, dramatic collared coats, tailored blazers, pencil skirts and fitted sheaths.

Jodi Arnold for The Limited Spring 2010 Lookbook




MINT Jodi Arnold designer Jodi Arnold has teamed up with The Limited for an exclusive, affordable fashion collaboration that "celebrates the positive impact women make in our society." Jodi's signature embellishments and unique prints mark this collection which includes dresses, embellished tees, jackets, blazers, jeans, jewelry and handbags. Prices range from about $49.50 for an ethnic print tank to $118 for a sequin explosion one-shoulder dress. Not bad for The Limited's first designer collab! Everything looks classic yet effortless with a little extra "something" to keep things interesting. Keep reading to browse the entire Jodi Arnold for The Limited lookbook, which you can also shop online now at www.thelimited.com. Which pieces would you buy?

Zac Posen for Target in People StyleWatch Mag


Zac Posen for Target in People StyleWatch Mag

The April 2010 issue of People StyleWatch magazine brings us highlights from the Zac Posen for Target collection, available in Target stores and online April 25th. "Celebs like Rihanna, Anne Hathaway and Rachel Bilson love Posen's feminine, impeccably tailored designs," the caption reads. "This new collection highlights his flair for bold details with a retro feel—for less ($16.99 - $199.99)!" I was feeling lukewarm about this collection at first but the excitement is building. The dresses look perfect for warm summer evenings. Are you excited? Keep reading to see close-up shots of all the items.