The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Authentic Icon for Kohl's




Kohl's has launched an exclusive American Idol-inspired apparel collection called Authentic Icon (it was only a matter of time, right?). If you watch Idol, you probably saw the top ten contestants getting decked out in their Authentic Icon duds with the help of designer Tommy Hilfiger, who has been mentoring the budding superstars on achieving their signature looks. The collection for teen girls and guys includes things like graphic tees, tops, jackets, jeans and dresses with a rock 'n' roll edge. But it's not exactly allowance-money friendly: A graphic halter maxi dress is priced at $72.99 (down from $98). My advice: Get in on the Idol action for free by entering Kohl's sweepstakes to win one of four trips to see the show's finale, while 50 runners-up will each win a $100 Kohl's gift card.

Keep reading to see more images of Authentic Icon for Kohl's. Will you check it out?

Win Cool Stuff: $100 Mimi Boutique Jewelry Shopping Spree

UPDATE 5/4/12: And the winner is—#135 Kaylie! Congrats to our winner and thanks to everyone who participated!


Please note: This giveaway has ended and is closed to further entries.

You probably already know the name Mimi Boutique (perhaps from mentions on this blog) as a source for affordable handbags. But did you know they also carry a fab selection of costume jewelry, too? From celebrity-inspired pieces to the latest trends, Mimi Boutique has the perfect accessory to finish any look. And now one lucky Budget Babe reader will have the chance to scoop up $100 worth of Mimi Boutique bling!

The Look for Less: Current/Elliott The Perfect Shirt

Current/Elliott's "The Perfect Shirt" as seen on Charlize Theron really is the perfect denim shirt, except for the price: It's $198 at Singer22.com.



Gap has one of the best looking denim-blue shirts I've seen lately for $49.95. Check stores for more sizes as these are selling out fast online.



Bebe Bridal Collection Spring 2012 Lookbook Highlights


Bebe Bridal Collection

Bebe just launched its first bridal collection designed by Project Runway all-star Rami Kashou, and here are some of the lookbook highlights for your viewing pleasure.

Prices for the bridal dresses range from $950 to $2,500, while bridesmaid's dresses range from $150 to $300. The bridal collection additionally includes a capsule of shoes, jewelry, fascinators, veils and gifts.

The collection will be available at bebe.com/bridal and by appointment at the following bebe store locations: Oak Street, Chicago; Rodeo Drive, Los Angeles; Broadway/Soho, New York City; and Aventura Mall, South Florida.

It's exciting to see more brands offering bridal options, although I can't say the prices are necessarily lower than those you'd find at traditional bridal salons. The bridesmaid dresses, on the other hand, are reasonably priced and actually look like something you could wear more than once (love that feathered number!).

What do you think? Would you buy a bridal gown from a store like Bebe or go another route?