My last trip to Target made me feel woefully unprepared for summer - racks were filled with swimsuits, skimpy dresses, and short shorts, while the shoe department was all about sandals, flip-flops and espadrilles. There's no point in me buying much of anything right now because I'm into my 37th week of pregnancy and even my shoes don't fit at this point, but that doesn't mean I can't look. The hi-lo frocks, ombre tees and palm-tree print shorts were calling my name. But what did I actually buy? The very last pair of Paka boots on clearance for $10.88, a set of ombre curtain panels for the nursery (and I used a 15% off Threshold drapery coupon via cartwheel.target.com), plus some paper lanterns from the dollar bins, also for the nursery. All in all, a good mini-haul.

What have you picked up at Target recently?

Back in November, I announced Sam & Libby were teaming up with Target for a shoe collection and yesterday the brand's first installment of cheap-chic sandals, flats and wedges hit shelves.

The summer-ready shoes feature unique textures like faux snakeskin and cork, as well as tribal prints, leopard and pops of neon that punctuate the mostly tan, black and white collection. Prices range from $22.99 to $34.99. I tried on the smoking flats and both fit true to size. I was tempted to try some of the gladiator sandals but didn't want to deal with those tiny buckles and my big belly (which makes reaching my feet with both hands a tad challenging).

Overall it's a strong launch with lots of fun options but I do question the quality - I don't see these shoes lasting more than a season with regular wear. For the price, you might be better off scouring sale sites like Hautelook or discount sites like 6pm.com where you can often find good quality footwear for $30-$40. But Target always wins for convenience!

Browse more styles online at Target.com.


Have you seen the Sam & Libby line yet? What did you think?

Rich layers and luxe accessories give us plenty to look forward to come fall as spotted by Budget Babe contributor Vanessa Williams Stevenson at the MANGO Fall 2013 press preview held in NYC last week. —BB

by Vanessa Williams Stevenson
Wednesday afternoon, Mango hosted a presentation of their Autumn/Winter 2013 collection, which will be available in stores and online in late August. The collection features a range of fabulous accessories and jewelry, a variety of fantastic knits and tons of separates. There are many detailed pieces in the collection, from sequined skirts to beaded dresses and leopard printed sweaters. There are faux leather jackets and blazers, printed pants and great boots.

Many of the pieces can be layered and worn together which makes for a perfect transition from summer to fall. The accessories play a big role in the collection. There are great belts, scarves and sunglasses and so much jewelry to choose from.

I'm extremely excited about this collection. I love the direction Mango is going in for the Fall and can't wait to pick up several of these pieces! —VWS

See half the images from the preview after the jump, then head to our Facebook page to see the rest!

While running errands in a neighboring town, I stopped by the "fancy" Walmart to check out their spring fashions. I was pleasantly surprised to find a wide assortment of colorful spring/summer must-haves like bright maxi dresses, striped tees and colored denim (and somewhat jealous, too, because my Walmart never gets this stuff!). A lot of these pieces have serious potential - I could just imagine Penny Chic styling some hottie L.A. blogger in the ikat maxi dress, topping it with a denim vest, tossing on a fedora, some flat sandals and stacked bangles and bam, she'd look like a million bucks! Use your imagination as you peruse the photos I snapped - could you see yourself on vacation in one of the short jersey dresses topped with a denim jacket and print scarf? Heading to a BBQ in some coral jeans and a breezy white blouse? With everything priced under $20, it's hard not to.