The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Aerosoles Fall 2010 Preview




Earlier this week, I had a chance to preview the Aerosoles Fall Winter 2010 collection at Spa Chakra in New York City, a tranquil setting befitting the soothing styles that are the hallmark of the Aerosoles brand. Easy on the eyes, easy on the feet! The fall collection aims to give Aerosoles customers more of what they love: Classic styles with a fashion-forward twist, like ankle boots with stud detailing, or their classic ballet flat done in menswear-inspired tweed. Many of the styles are available in genuine leather, and range in price from $79 to $150 which makes them an amazing value. Each style also features the hallmark diamond-pattern tread for comfort and traction, as well as a cushioned footbed. I own a couple pairs of Aerosoles, including leather riding boots and peep-toe mary jane heels, and they are some of the comfiest shoes I own—use a discerning eye and you will find some serious gems! Look for these fall styles to hit Aerosoles stores and aerosoles.com in August.

The Look for Less: DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Striped Layer T-shirt


A striped shirt is a wardrobe essential. Don't worry about the horizontal lines making you look wider, it's a myth! Well, except in photos. But in person, stripes looks flattering and chic. Pair this DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Striped Layer T-shirt ($89, net-a-porter.com) with skinnies and flats or wear with wide leg jeans and platform sandals for a casual spring look.

Alice + Olivia for Payless Spring 2010


Alice + Olivia for Payless Spring 2010

Yesterday I popped into Payless and saw the latest spring styles from their Alice + Olivia for Payless collection. Similar to seasons past, the stars of this designer collaboration are funky, fun and feature sky-high heels. There's a towering gladiator sandal available in either army green or black (probably my favorite of the bunch, although I'm not really sold on any of them), a Chanel-inspired clog, a satin bow-embellished slingback and a striped "Dr. Seuss" peep-toe that's sure to evoke feelings or either love or loathing. All styles are priced under $39.99, available in stores now. Keep reading for bigger pics, and check out additional styles at Payless.com.

Nine West Fall/Winter 2010 Interim Preview

Nine West Creative Director Fred Allard shows off two of his favorite styles from the Fall/Winter 2010 collection.

Last night I attended the Nine West Fall Winter 2010 preview party at The Palace Hotel in New York City, an opulent setting befitting the luxe-looking collection of shoes, handbags and jewelry curated by Creative Director Fred Allard. Fred and his team created an absolutely stunning display for all to admire (I felt like I was on the set of Gossip Girl or something), and I had the chance to ask him about the inspiration behind the looks: There was the "jewel box" collection that was all about ladylike opulence, rich details and ornamentation, played out in a sexy red and black color palette in fabrics like velvet, damask and lace.