The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's Fall 2011 Lookbook




Kohl's has shared its LC Lauren Conrad fall 2011 look book with us and once again, it does not disappoint. Let me get straight to the highlights (there are many!): Faux leather shorts in nutmeg which strike the perfect chord of fashion-forward but also feminine; a chiffon-pleated skirt that will look equally amazing with a white blouse and heels as it will with a sweater, tights and boots; a fit-and-flare cocktail dress that captures the "Mad Men" vibe that's so strong this fall; loafer platform pumps for that menswear-inspired shoe with major sex appeal; and a tiered colorblock dress, because summer's not over yet. Prices range from around $36 for a ruffle-tiered woven cami to $70 for an essential long boyfriend blazer, and you can shop many of these looks starting now and continuing through the fall (mouse over any image for detailed pricing and availability).

Do you love what you see?

Full Look: Missoni for Target Women's Apparel




The entire Missoni for Target look book dropped on Friday, so by now you've had a chance to peruse all the looks and dutifully note which items you'll be purchasing come September 13th. Here's a look at the women's apparel (mouse over any image for details and prices). I'll probably buy at least one fashion "souvenir" from the collection (the cardigan above would look cute with a white tee and jeans) but I plan on doing the most damage to my wallet with the home decor. I've seen it all in person at the press preview and it's unreal. My entire home is going to be Missonified this fall and I can not wait! Okay, now back to the clothes - which pieces are on your must-have list? I'm dying to hear what you think!

Off the Rack: August Highlights at Forever 21




Last week I popped into the Fifth Avenue Forever 21 store to assess the late summer/early fall offerings. While concise trends were hard to pinpoint, it's clear there's something for everyone, from preppy collegiate to California surfer, glam-rock, boho, gypset and everything in between. If the kaleidoscopic colors and quirky styling on the mannequins leaves you confused or overwhelmed, my advice: Hone in on individual pieces. Maybe you're dying to try a feminine bow-tie blouse or a cool, sleeveless trench. Check and check. Maybe you just need some colorful twill pants or a punch of leopard print. Done and done! Forever 21 is never boring and with a little patience, you can always find a piece or two to update your wardrobe on the cheap. Here, some highlights that caught my eye - see anything that's worth a trip to your nearest store?

Ask BB: Stylish Head Coverings

My sister is having surgery on her head in two weeks. I imagine she will have a small to medium area shaved on the top of her head. What fashionable ideas do you have to keep her shaved area covered while she's waiting for her hair to grow back? She has short hair and so it should not be a really long time. She likes scarves and hats but not turbans. —Concerned Sister

Your sister is lucky to have someone as wonderful and caring as you in her life. I think that finding a fun and stylish head covering together will help boost your sister's morale, and that quality sister time will have her feeling better in no time. Plus there are dozens of stylish options to choose from - head coverings from hats to head scarves make the ultimate fashion statement. Here's some inspiration to help give you some ideas:





1. Oversized headband: Shows like Gossip Girl have made headbands a must-have accessory, and there are plenty of fun options to choose from, many of which are oversized or feature unique bows, flowers, feathers and other embellishments that might camouflage a small section of the head. Check etsy.com for handmade options under $10.

2. Head scarf: One of Nicole Richie's signature accessories is the head scarf, which she's often been spotted wearing either as a wide headband or tied to cover her entire head. Look for affordable options at stores like Target or Forever 21, then google "how to tie a head scarf" for step-by-step instructions on how to achieve this simple yet uttering chic look.

3. Casual hats: I rely on my straw fedora to amend bad hair days, shield my face from the sun and add interest to simple outfits. You'll find plenty of adorable options at stores like Urban Outfitters and H&M for under $30.

4. Dressy hats: Rachel Bilson wore this hat to a Chanel party paired with a cute blazer and dress combo, proving that hats can work for day or night. A pretty brooch or ribbon can also dress up a hat if the occasion calls for it.

Here are some cheap-chic head coverings I found online, most are under $30. Thrift stores are another place to score inexpensive and unique head scarves.



Wishing your sister a speedy and stylish recovery! xoxBB

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