The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

BB Exclusive: Save 15 Percent at Mimi's The Look for Less




As the name suggests, Mimi's The Look for Less is an online boutique that offers designer jewelry looks for less, from J.Crew's bubble necklace to David Yurman's cable ring. The quality is nowhere near that of the originals, but the affordable prices mean you can add a little sparkle to your day without a big investment.

Mimi's sent me a few items to try out for myself, including some neon stud earrings and a faux-leather wrap bracelet. I wouldn't have selected these items for myself, but it was a thoughtful gesture, proving Mimi's has courteous customer service. Also, they've extended a coupon code to BB readers in case you're looking for a little bling yourself. The code is BUDGETBABE, and it will be good for 15% off your entire order thru August 3, 2012.

Here, my top picks:

1. Tangerine Double Drop Statement Necklace, $48
2. Orange and Gold Circle Earrings with Diamond Center, $18
3. Cable and Crystal Ring with Black Stone, $32
4. Coral and Gold Enamel Stretch Bracelet, $20
5. Mixed Metals Watch, $25

The Look for Less: Dolce Vita 'Babette' Heels

The Dolce Vita 'Babette' platform sandal makes a deco statement in three-tone suede and metallic piping. ($152.24, endless.com)



Get a similar look for less with these gorgeous LC Lauren Conrad platforms instead. ($49.99 down from $79.99, kohls.com). You can use code BLOGIT10 through August 23 to get 10% off your order and stack your savings with one other department specific code as well (check retailmenot.com).



Lunch Hour Shopping: Nordstrom Anniversary Sale




As a budget fashion blogger, I would be remiss if I did not remind you about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale which is going on now through August 6th. But the truth is, I just can't bring myself to think about fall fashion just yet. Who knows what kind of boots I'll want to slip on when the leaves start to fall? Or what color coat I'll want to wrap myself in when chilly winds begin to blow? Nonetheless, Nordstrom wants us to plan ahead, and they're offering the best prices of the season on dozens of new fall fashions to encourage us to shop now. The early bird gets the best deal, so don't be like me - head to Nordstrom.com now if you haven't already and get started on your chicest fall wardrobe to date.

{Shown above: My top picks would include... 1) BP Runway Boot, $89.90 (after sale $129.95); 2) bebe Mixed Media Trench Coat, $119.90 (after sale $198); 3) Vince Camuto Parker Satchel, $218 (after sale $328)}


Have you shopped the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale already? What did you buy?

TheBudgetBabe.com Gets A Makeover!




Ta-da! Notice anything different?! I finally gave my blog a much-needed makeover. Hopefully you'll find it cleaner, brighter and easier to use. Same great content, fresh new look! While we're on the subject, allow me to bring a few things to your attention.

First, I enlisted the help of Dandy Designs Boutique to design my glossy new banner. Couldn't. Be. Happier.

My Chicago Shopping Adventures in the Kia Rio


If you follow me on Twitter or Instagram, you may have noticed that I was in Chicago last week visiting family. I had an amazing trip, and part of what made my long weekend memorable was that I got hooked up with a 2012 Kia Rio 5-Door to use for the duration of my stay in Chicago. Cuz that's how The Budget Babe rolls LOL. My Kia was waiting for me at O'Hare airport and when the valet pulled it around, it was love at first sight. This car is absolutely adorable but not so cutesy that a dude couldn't drive it, too. You know what I mean! I loved the fun electronic blue color and sleek styling. Not bad, Kia, not bad!