The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Off the Rack: Forever 21 Spring Highlights

Great fashion finds at Forever 21 this spring
Forever 21 is looking back to two decades for fashion inspo for spring 2016: The 70s and the 90s. From the former, I spotted all the usual bohemian suspects, like peasant tops, faux suede jackets, mini skirts and wide leg jumpsuits. From the latter, it was all sweatshirts, distressed denim and oversized silhouttes on things like plaid shirts and boxy crop tops. But both trends had a modern twist - the 90s throwbacks were updated to please Kendall Jenner fans and those with #squadgoal aspirations. And the retro fashions had a modern romance - or edge - that made them feel wearable today. If you're over 21 (hypothetically speaking), I'd focus on the denim (no really it's great), outerwear (be discerning, but this denim jacket and this faux suede jacket look more expensive than they really are), and accessories (like these strappy gray sandals), plus basics (I love their tees and longline camis). Keep reading to check out the 45+ photos I snapped (with two babes in tow, no less, aren't you impressed?! LOL) to see how things look in-store...like what you see?

Off the Rack: Old Navy Spring Highlights Continued

Old Navy spring fashions
Earlier this week I shared tons of snaps from Old Navy (here) and now I'm sharing even more. There are so many great pieces to check out, I couldn't fit them all in one post lest I break your browser #oknotreally. Let's talk about this linen-blend midi dress, gingham matching set, and gingham shirt dress for starters - feminine, flirty and fun for spring. Then there are these gray D'Orsay flats, these pink canvas sneakers and these ankle strap sandals to finish your look. And don't forget the denim, from skinny to boyfriend to overalls. I think Old Navy has done a great job with prints this season (love the peplum top shown above, has a chic Anthropologie vibe), and presenting a mix of trendy items (like this jumpsuit) with classic staples (such as this striped top). I bought two pairs of cropped relaxed fit jeans which I'm already having trouble styling but they should be easy to wear with sandals once the weather warms up. I'll pass on the wide leg crops. How about you?

Right now save up to 40% on all pants and jeans plus select dresses. Use code ENJOY to get 30% off adult styles online at oldnavy.com.

Off the Rack: Spring Trendspotting at T.J.Maxx

Spring trends at TJMaxx
This past weekend I headed to T.J.Maxx to check out the spring trends. I had to do a little digging but eventually found some great items, which I've highlighted here. The trick to shopping at a place like T.J.Maxx, for me at least, is to use laser-like focus as you hunt for things you really need and/or love...and block out the rest. For spring, I'm loving all the pastels from handbags to simple knits...think blush pink and washed out chambray. Distressed denim and graphic tops are still big, while boho blouses, florals, and nautical inspired pieces always seem to come back for spring - no complaints here. I tried to focus on items under $40, so everything you see here is super affordable (with the exception of the nude lace-up heels and powder blue BCBG bag). I ended up buying a cargo jacket for $39.99 (shown above) with a giftcard courtesy of the brand. I may have three such jackets in my closet already but I can never get enough! Loving the cargo vests, too, so versatile and easy to wear. Browse on, and let me know what catches your eye!