The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Lunch Hour Shopping: L.A.M.B. Handbags and Shoes on Gilt




Gwen Stefani is one celebrity with a fashion line that real fashionistas love to wear, and today on Gilt Groupe, you can get your hands on some genuine L.A.M.B. handbags and shoes at a big discount. Think perfect-for-spring neon messengers, classic black satchels with a touch of edge and platform ankle boots that make the outfit. The bags above, for example, are now just $129 (down from $248), which equals a steal any way you do the math.

Shop it online:
L.A.M.B. handbags and shoes on Gilt Groupe

Marni for H&M Photos Leaked




Fashionista is reporting that the first Marni for H&M ad campaign photo has been leaked on The Fashion Spot, building upon earlier excitement created by the campaign announcement video and photos.




Naturally I headed to TFS to see the ad and noticed another forum member had posted what appears to be a second ad campaign image. The first image gives us a glimpse at a blouse modeled by Imogen Poots for 69.95 euros and the second ad shows a polka-dot dress for 59.95 euros. Both items have me yearning to see more.

Marni for H&M hits stores on March 8th.

Images via The Fashion Spot

Sneak Peek: Helios & Luna Fall 2012


One of the pieces that caught my eye in the February issue of People StyleWatch was a vibrant orange leather skirt by a new-to-me brand called Helios & Luna by Patricia Clyne. So when I received this sneak peek of the designer's Fall 2012 presentation, I was instantly intrigued. Here's a quote from the designer about her inspiration for the collection which will be shown next week during New York Fashion Week:

"This season I went to an art gallery for my inspiration for the new Helios & Luna Collection for Fall 2012. I became obsessed by the paintings of British conceptual modern artist Martin Creed. His graphic bold strokes and colors reflect the spirit of the woman the collection is deigned for."

Off the Rack: January Highlights at Old Navy




Spring has sprung at Old Navy, with new knits in a bevy of bright colors, lightweight sundresses, sandals and yes, even shorts. I'm so not ready for this (and I won't be able to wear these pieces for another 3 months at least). But if you're planning a winter getaway or you live somewhere warm, you're in for a treat. I was getting a Diane von Furstenberg vibe with a lot of the new printed pieces, from tribal to artsy florals. A geometric print faux-wrap dress stood out. Also loving the brightly colored neon-neutral flats and mini crossbody bags, great for everyday. Colorblocking is another returning trend, which looked chic on leather-look tote bags. And if you aren't in the mood for spring clothes just yet, there's colored denim and chunky sweaters still in stock, even some winter coats left on clearance. What catches your eye?