There's nothing worse than dropping a big wad of cash on pricey makeup, only to discover the colors make you look jaundiced or the fragrance triggers an anaphylactic shock.

That's precisely why we think the idea of an affordable trial kit is so fantastic, like this one from Smashbox for $29. Voted "Best Cruelty Free Cosmetics Company" by PETA, Smashbox is a also beloved by celebs and a well-known leader in cutting edge cosmetics.

Another plus: Get FREE standard shipping when you order from Smashbox.com. Score!

The kit includes a 10-well Brow Tech & Cream Eye Liner Palette (0.05 oz.), Photo Finish Primer (0.3 oz.), Under Eye Brightener (0.13 oz.), Lip Enhancing Gloss Crystal (0.12 oz.) and Double Ended Brush (Shadow Liner #9 and Angled Brow #12) AND a tips and tricks DVD.

As the saying goes, "You can't beat a dead horse." But let's do it anyway, shall we?

Here are some of our most recent disappointing finds from SJP's Bitten line at Steve and Barry's (What can we say, we're gluttons for punishment)...


The Good: Doesn't bode well for a fashion line when the best you can offer is a solid-color tee (and no, not Adam + Eve superluxe tees). We finally caved and spent our gift card on the tee on the right (nice color for fall, good for layering).


The Bad: We were going for that nautical-chic look with the red & navy top on the left, but the fit was awful and the seams along the arm were stitched crookedly. The coat on the right looked promising from a distance, but when we got up-close and tried it on, we noticed that the "wool" was wrinkled in places. Looks cheap, and we question the warmth factor.


The Ugly: These two items do not belong in any woman's closet. The short-sleeved blouse on the left employs a blue/white check print appropriate for a picnic tablecloth, while the leotard on the right bunched up around our bottoms and was made from swimsuit fabric (and just try going to the ladies room in that thing).

So there you have it. Poor quality, poor style. They could be handing this stuff out for free and we'd still pass. But will we be back to see the fall collection?? You betcha!

Set your TiVos, kids, cuz Vera Wang will be showcasing her new affordable fashion line on tomorrow's Oprah Show. Watch the preview and check local listings for times!

(Oh, and come back later to talk about the show!)

Related links:
The Budget Babe reviews Simply Vera. >>

Question: Where will you be this Sunday, September 16th?

Answer: Checkin' out British designer Alice Temperley's new GO collection at Target, of course!


Swiss Dot Blouse in Blue, $34.99; Velvet Miniskirt in Black, $29.99; Hat in Black, $14.99; Belted Sweater Dress in Black/White, $49.99; Hat in Black, $14.99; Long-Stitch Sweater in Gray, $44.99; Voile Ruffle-Front Dress in Gray, $29.99; Striped Belt in Black/White, $14.99; Fingerless Gloves in Black, $14.99

What to expect (from Target's pressroom): "The Alice Temperley for Target collection encourages women to be playful with their wardrobe. Expertly incorporating ruffles, polka dots, bows and buttons onto sophisticated silhouettes, Temperley makes an understated feminine statement. The collection ranges in price from $14.99–$139.99, including fall must-haves such as printed dresses, knit tunics, cropped jackets, ruffled blouses, little black dresses and miniskirts."

"Stand-out pieces include a long flower-print V-neck dress, long velvet coat with voluminous sleeves, blue polka-dotted bow blouse and navy military jacket with gold buttons. Accessories include chic knit fingerless gloves and berets in solid black, pink and black, and white stripes. Wide stretch belts in solid black and black & white stripes add a finishing touch to a modern look."

What we say: Bring it on! The classic black and white color palette is super appealing for fall. Some of the pieces appear to lack that crucial wearability factor, but we still get giddy when we see high-fashion looks at affordable prices. (Easily amused? Us?! Naaah...)

Next up: Designer Erin Fetherston

And in the meantime...
Save 30% on Libertine >>
Last chance: Patrick Robinson Clearance >>

The key to making magical homecoming memories is to pick a dress that accentuates your best features and makes you feel beautiful. Focus on flaunting one asset at a time, such as your décolletage or your legs, but not both. Have fun with accessories but don't go overboard. Wear shoes that are cute yet comfy enough for dancing. And above all, don't forget to leave a little something up to the imagination.

Here's where to score a fab homecoming frock without breaking the bank:

Nordstrom has by far the most impressive collection of any department store we checked out for fun, flirty and tasteful homecoming frocks, many under $100. Check out their outlet, Nordstrom Rack, for great shoe finds.

T.J. Maxx and Marshall's carry designer names for less. Scouring the racks is for the adventurous fashionista who has a clear vision. The reward for the hunt: No one else will have your dress.

eDressMe.com has dresses for every occasion and every budget. Huge selection to choose from.

Bluefly.com has a great selection of designer dresses including BCBG, A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz and Nicole Miller at 40-70% off the regular price.

BetseyJohnson.com has a fantastic sale section. BJ's girly frocks are young, playful and perfectly over the top.

Target.com: Turn heads without dropping a lot of cash at our favorite big-box boutique, Tar-zhay. Head straight to the "party dress" section for many online exclusives. Best part: you'll have money left over to accessorize.

Back-in-Style.com: Vintage pieces are a perennial favorite for celebs looking to find something special and unique to wear on the red carpet. Get your retro-glam on by perusing Back-in-Style.com's high-quality inventory of vintage dresses and gowns.

JCPenney surprised us again with the cute sequinned frock shown above. Dazzling and very of-the-moment. On sale for $99.