The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Aerosoles Shows Shoes So Cute You'll Forget They're Comfortable at the Fall 2013 Preview


Aerosoles Fall 2013 press preview

If you think comfort and style are mutually exclusive when it comes to shoes, think again! Budget Babe contributor Vanessa Williams Stevenson of Leather and Lollipops heads to the Aerosoles Fall 2013 preview, where she finds on-trend footwear options that won't kill your feet. —BB

by Vanessa Williams Stevenson
On Thursday Aerosoles hosted a preview of their Fall 2013 collection, which will be available in stores starting in July. As always, Aerosoles focuses on comfort, in all their styles. The new collection brings a more modern feel into their designs and there is clearly a greater focus on being on-trend and bringing current styles to buyers at a great price point. Shoes are priced from $59-$89 and boots and booties are priced from $89-$140.

The collection features a selection of flats, heels, wedges, booties and boots, and introduces AerGo by Aerosoles, a new technology utilizing EVA soles which are lightweight, flexible and super comfortable. My favorites were the studded wedges (above) and flannel riding boots. I can see myself slipping these items into my fall wardrobe without missing a beat. I appreciate knowing that my feet won't ache and that I can still look great. —VWS

WHITE by Vera Wang Fall 2013 Preview


WHITE by Vera Wang for David's Bridal Fall 2013 Collection Photos

Vera Wang holds a special place in my heart because I wore a gown (and veil and hairpiece and sash) from her WHITE for David's Bridal line for my own wedding. I can't say enough good things about this collection, and neither can Budget Babe contributor Vanessa Williams Stevenson of Leather and Lollipops, who headed to the designer's preview yesterday in NYC to bring us a first-look at the latest swoon-worthy styles. —BB

by Vanessa Williams Stevenson
Yesterday afternoon, Vera Wang presented the WHITE by Vera Wang Fall 2013 Collection, available exclusively at David's Bridal. The collection incorporated Vera Wang's classic aesthetic into affordable looks for brides and bridesmaids.

Bridal gowns in the collection are priced from $728 to $1,348. The collection features traditional white and ivory and introduces sterling, a silvery grey, and oyster, and pale beige tinted with grey. It includes satin and textured organza and there is a huge emphasis on detail in the design and an elegant sophistication throughout. Each piece was breathtaking. It's hard for me to decide on a favorite because each was so perfect and appropriate for any wedding. The crystal details, sashes and draping and layering of fabrics was done so beautifully.

The bridesmaid dresses are priced from $168 to $198. The collection introduces two new looks, a crinkle chiffon flutter sleeve dress and a satin and matte crepe peplum dress with a satin sash. I fell hopelessly in love with the peplum dress. Not only is it a fabulous dress for a bridesmaid, it's great to wear if you're attending a wedding or any other formal event.

I absolutely adore this collection. I think it's wonderful that Vera Wang has this collection for David's Bridal and is bringing her designs into a more affordable range for brides who want a Vera Wang without completely breaking the bank. Which of the gowns is your favorite? —VWS

Jockey Fall 2013 Preview


Jockey Fall 2013 Press Preview

All-American undie brand Jockey has been upping their fashion quotient with moves like a recent collab with celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe. At their Fall 2013 press preview, Jockey continues that trend with reimagined basics for every woman and every occasion. Budget Babe contributor Vanessa Williams Stevenson of Leather and Lollipops reports. —BB

by Vanessa Williams Stevenson
Yesterday afternoon Jockey hosted their Fall 2013 Seasonal Preview event at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City. The designers breathed new life into the collection by introducing a modern twist on the classics in a variety of colors, designs, materials and cuts. The presentation made it apparent that Jockey really thought about each piece and really wanted to give women with different body shapes great undergarment choices for all situations. The options are endless whether you're going to work, a formal event, working out or just relaxing at home.

Jockey really addressed practical everyday issues that we experience with undergarments and made it clear that they really wanted to give women the opportunity to pick and choose based on their specific needs. There is shape wear that has a much more subtle approach to pulling everything together, work out pants that come in different lengths so you can pick and choose based on your height, different cuts of underwear you can choose based on your shape and crisp stretchy tanks that are formal enough to wear under a suit jacket and casual enough to wear with jeans.

I was intrigued by all of the selections and I really appreciated the fact that Jockey is trying to get better and better and address issues brought to them by their customers. I loved the boyshorts and hipsters and the great colors and prints. Some of the collection is available for purchase now and the remainder of the items will be released throughout the coming months. I would definitely recommend checking out Jockey's offerings because there is truly something for everyone. —VWS

Banana Republic Fall 2013 Preview


Banana Republic Fall/Holiday 2013 Preview

The Budget Babe contributor Vanessa Williams Stevenson from Lollipops and Leather falls head over heels for subdued luxury at the Banana Republic Fall/Holiday 2013 press preview in NYC. —BB

by Vanessa Williams Stevenson
Yesterday evening Banana Republic rocked my world with their Fall/Holiday 2013 presentation at Cedar Lake in New York City. I literally stopped in my tracks and gasped when I first walked in because I was so amazed at everything I was seeing. The looks were luxe and sophisticated, but simple. The collection as a whole is really accessible, but it also has a real sense of purpose.

Banana Republic presented a refreshing and new take on their classic American style. It's so obvious to me that the designers behind this collection really thought about the details. It was contemporary, it was edgy, it was everything. I loved the leather and faux fur, the amazing shoes and booties and the fabulous handbags and statement jewelry. I really appreciated the way that everything was presented and styled because it gave me endless ideas on how I could wear things.

I absolutely cannot wait for this collection to be available for purchase. I have my eye on the black leather tee and the faux fur clutch. What's on your list?
—VWS

Kardashian Kollection for Sears Fall 2013 Preview


Kardashian Kollection Fall 2013

This past Thursday, I attended a press preview for Kardashian Kollection's Fall 2013 line sold exclusively at Sears. These are the pieces you'll see beginning in late summer, and they revolve around four themes: "Drama Queen" is inspired by 1940s shapes in a palette of dark rose, black and houndstooth prints. "Modern Military" takes traditional military colors like army green, then adds a dose of neon and blood orange for an updated twist. "Uptown Gypsy" is all about lace and leopard, with ruffles, dramatic shoulders and flared sleeves. And finally, "Black on Black" channels chic sophistication with simple, clean lines and a palette of celestial blue, black and white, plus tweed jersey and white tiger print.

The bottom line? These pieces truly reflect the personal styles of Khloe, Kim and Kourtney, the collection's celebrity designers. And whereas most celeb clothing lines demonstrate a huge disconnect between the star and the product (at least in my humble opinion), there's no denying these designing sisters are truly involved in the design process for their cheap-chic Sears brand. Chatting with the PR team confirmed this - I was told all the girls really put a lot of effort into the line, and it shows. My favorite pieces included the sheath dresses that are great for day to night and work for all body types. Also loving the new line of premium denim that will be coming out for fall and the luxe-looking handbags. Are you a Kardashian Kollection fan?