The Budget Babe

I am a 26 year-old SAHM to two little girls (3 & 8 months). My wardrobe consists of yoga pants and ill-fitting t-shirts. I am in a fashion rut! I want to be stylish, but practical, and I'm certainly on a budget. I'm not really sure what my "style" is. I prefer flats versus heels and I'm loving the riding boot trend. Also, I'm not super skinny so I feel like a lot of the trends aren't geared towards my body type (i.e., the skinny jean) even though I love the look of skinny jeans! I would love to have a stylish yet age appropriate look while also being practical. Is this possible?? —Brittany W.

The short answer: Yes, it's possible! The long answer: Finding your personal style is a life-long, ever-evolving process, so go easy on yourself and take baby steps.

Here's how I'd start: What you need is a uniform - just ONE head to toe look that makes you feel stylish and confident. A look you can toss on in a hurry and wear anywhere (okay, almost anywhere). Once you nail that look, you can start mixing things up a bit.

Need inspiration? Rip out pages of looks you like from your favorite magazines, or use Pinterest to create a personal style board. This is probably one of the best ways to figure out what you really like.

Regarding budget: You don't need to spend a lot to look good. But it helps to have a good eye - if you're shopping at Forever 21, for example, look for your more classic, timeless pieces in neutrals or black. Black always looks good, modern and usually more expensive. I'm not saying don't wear color, but it's easier to mix and match when you have a solid foundation of classic neutrals.

Ok, now for some ideas!

Uniform #1: Cardigan, cotton top, dark denim, tall flat boots
This foolproof outfit is perfect for moms on the go. Every piece is comfy and stretchy yet totally stylish. Just don't forget a couple accessories to add personality. Maybe stud earrings that your baby daughter can't tug on, and a sparkly belt to keep your cardigan in place when you're doing dishes or lugging laundry baskets around. And by the way, curvy girls can totally wear skinny jeans.

Cardigans
Boots

Continue reading "Ask BB: Help This Mom Out of ... »

Sergio Rossi's opulent "Uptown" blue velvet pumps are $650 at saksfifthavenue.com.

Sergio Rossi Uptown Velvet Platform Pumps

Get a similar look for a lot less with LC Lauren Conrad platform pumps instead, just $41.99 (down from $59.99) at kohls.com.

Lc lauren conrad platform high heels - women

JCPenney is teaming up with Nigerian-born, London-based designer Duro Olowu. The exclusive collection, Duro Olowu for jcp, features apparel and accessories for women, as well as home goods, including dinnerware, stationery and décor items. Ranging in price from $10 to $100, Duro Olowu for jcp will be available this spring from March through May 2013 at most jcpenney stores and jcp.com.

Known for his vivid prints, Olowu combines the bold patterns and colors from his heritage with timeless silhouettes in his affordable collection for JCP. First Lady Michelle Obama is one of Olowu's most prominent fans, so you may have seen her wearing his pieces in the past. I can't say I was familiar with Olowu prior to this collab so I guess that's good exposure for him! Looking forward to checking it out in person.

Peep a few more pics after the jump.

Continue reading "Duro Olowu for JCPenney" »

Forget heels: Eva Longoria goes California-casual in a tan tunic sweater, skinny jeans and matching shearling boots.

Get the look for less:

2. Uniqlo Skinny Jeans, $39.90
3. Danielle Nicole "Carmen" Handbag, $128

This amazing look for less comes to us from alert reader @MichelleNhin! Charlotte Olympia's "Kitty" embroidered velvet flats are $595 at NetAPorter.com.

Charlotte Olympia Kitty embroidered velvet flats

Celebrity fans include Alexa Chung, Taylor Swift and Katy Perry.



Get the look for less from BooHoo.com with their Paris Black Suedette Cat Face Ballet Shoes for £18.00 / $28.86 (plus £6.99 shipping to the USA). Me-ow!