The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Off the Rack: Summer is Going Strong at Forever 21


Off the Rack: Summer Fashions at Forever 21

Summer's not over yet and the push at Forever 21 stores and online is to encourage shoppers to have their "Best Summer Ever." Whether it's at the beach or a backyard pool party, a road trip across Route 66 or up the coast, Forever 21 has fashions that will help you getaway and create some lasting memories. I was certainly feeling the vibe on my last trip to the store near me, where I picked up some amazing distressed denim cut-offs (similar styles here) from the Life in Progress line (more generous sizing and mature styles geared to 20- and 30-somethings), plus two breezy bohemian blouses with pretty embroidery (here's one), and a summery gingham button down. I also couldn't resist picking up a sleepshirt with the phrase "Pardon my French." They have the cutest loungewear! I honestly can't get enough Forever 21 lately, whenever I need a specific look or piece, they always deliver. You have to do some (serious) digging but it's so worth it. If you're a Forever 21 fan, too, you can join the conversation on social media with hashtags #F21xMe and #SummerForever.

Accessory Steal of the Week: Crystal Collar Necklace


Crystal collar necklace

In this weekly column, I’m bringing you my favorite budget-friendly accessory that’s available online or in-stores. This week, we’re talking jewelry. Make sure to check out my blog SydneStyle.com for more affordable fashion inspiration!

A crystal collar necklace is a great statement piece to have in your wardrobe because a) it never goes out of style and b) you can use it to create endless looks. I’m loving Charming Charlie’s Close Call Collar necklace ($25). The burnished chain gives it a vintage feel that makes it seem much more expensive.

Accessory Steal of the Week: Straw Floppy Hat


Floppy straw hat for summer

In this weekly column, I’m bringing you my favorite budget-friendly accessory that’s available online or in-stores. This week, we’re talking hats. Make sure to check out my blog SydneStyle for more affordable fashion inspiration!

Whether you’re hitting the beach or the pool, a hat is a summer must-have. Not only does it protect your face from sun (goodbye wrinkles!) but it also makes a major fashion statement. For a boho vibe, I’m a huge fan of the floppy hat.

Accessory Steal of the Week: Box Clutch


Sydne Summer / Tasha Clutch

In this weekly column, I’m bringing you my favorite budget-friendly accessory that’s available online or in-stores. This week, we’re talking bags. Make sure to check out my blog SydneStyle.com for more affordable fashion inspiration!

With wedding season in full swing, it’s smart to have an accessory that will go with almost every dress. That’s where a metallic clutch comes in. A box clutch—which is a hard box-shaped bag—doubles as jewelry!

While I was prepping for a TV segment at Nordstrom, this Tasha clutch ($98) instantly caught my eye. All my looks had to feature pieces under $100 so I was hesitant to grab it. But it was right on point!

Accessory Steal of the Week: Black & White Sandals


Black and white heels

In this weekly column, I’m bringing you my favorite budget-friendly accessory that’s available online or in-stores. This week, we’re talking shoes. Make sure to check out my blog SydneStyle.com for more affordable fashion inspiration!

One of the biggest trends this season is black and white. The best part is it’s so easy to do—especially on a budget! When wearing the trend, you can keep it simple with solids or spice up your game with prints and textures. One great piece to get you started is a black and white shoe.