The Budget Babe

Brian Atwood today announced that he will collaborate with Jones Apparel Group to create B Brian Atwood, a new footwear and accessory line that will be the contemporary counterpart to Brian Atwood's high-end, luxury shoe business.

B Brian Atwood will be sold in better department stores and specialty retailers beginning in fall 2011, followed by the launches of B Brian Atwood handbags and jewelry slated for 2012. Footwear under the B Brian Atwood brand will retail for $200 to $400 for core items and up to $600 for boots.

I was excited when I first heard the news—Atwood is a celebrity fave and his stunning creations are seen all over the red carpet—but the price range is still out of reach. For me, at least. Oh well!

Despite it's $695 pricetag, Loeffler Randall's 'Matilde' boot sells out every season. I have a feeling the look for less will sell out, too, since it offers the same style and comfort for $550 less. See if you can spot the real vs. the steal, then click on either image to check your guess!

I went to Target today in hopes of finding some Temple St. Clair jewelry—which they didn't have—but I did find some cool Chan Luu inspired bead bracelets (actually there are many designers making these stackable, leather wrap bead bracelets but Chan Luu is probably the most well-known of the bunch at the moment, having recently collaborated with Banana Republic on a limited-edition line). I found an assortment of colors and styles, each for $7.99. My favorite was a dark purple silk-look chord with gold-tone beads. Best part is that the closure features an easy-to-adjust slip knot so you can customize the fit to suit your wrist. Brilliant! Browse Chan Luu bracelets below for reference.

Here's a reader request: Recreate this sumptuous look from the Michael Kors Fall 2010 runway—for less. Key pieces? A deep v-neck sweater in gray, button-front camel pencil skirt, snakeskin belt, slouchy suede boots and fur clutch. So sexy yet sophisticated!

Click through to see the budget breakdown.



1. CROSSOVER V-NECK SWEATER, $44.90, express.com



2. CITY CLASSIC CAMEL PENCIL SKIRT, $59.50, loftonline.com



3. SNAKESKIN BELT, $50, shopbop.com



4. BROWN SUEDE 'ASHLEY' TALL BOOT, $44.90, alloy.com



5. 'PEEKABOO' FUR BAG, $59, ninewest.com

Michelle Obama wore Banana Republic's 'Dreamer' dip-dye cami in chrome blue along with cropped black pants and Maison Martin Margiela sandals while playing mini-golf with her family.



Her Banana Republic top is on sale now for $69.99 in stores. You can click the image below to purchase this top in barley white online at BananaRepublic.com. Love the look, simple yet chic!

More Banana Republic...