The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Look for Less: Prada's Optic Squares




Miuccia has cast her sartorial spell once again, and we are powerless to escape it: Interspersed among Prada's fantastic floral fantasies on the Spring 2008 runway were some rather dashing, eye-catching optic square prints (left). Not quite plaid, not quite checks, these geometric grid-like patterns gave skirts and dresses a mesmerizing, almost dizzying quality.

The price of Prada's wares, however, has a similar albeit headache-inducing effect, but fortunately we found an off-the-runway skirt from Ann Taylor (right) that boasts the optic-squares we crave. Toned down with a solid white blouse and green patent purse, we think it's the perfect ensemble for work. Add baubles, a clutch and fierce heels, and you'll have a figure-flattering on-trend look for night.

>> Square Jacquard Skirt at AnnTaylor.com $98 $49.99

Prada image source: Style.com

Spring Fashion Trends 2008: Goddess Gowns


We titled this trend "goddess gowns" for the sake of alliteration when, in fact, all sorts of one-shouldered draped dresses for day and night made their mark on the SS08 runways. The masterful dressmaker Monique Lhuillier delivered a celestial evening gown fit for a fete on Mount Olympus; Yigal Azrouël brought the look back down to earth with a breezy white asymmetrical frock; and Lanvin presented a modern-day toga for today's fashionista. Whether you've got a Spring gala to attend or are looking for something a little out-of-the ordinary for your next cocktail party, consider a one-shouldered dress - and invoke your inner goddess.

Kohl's Semi-Annual Shoe and Handbag Sale




The Deal: The Kohl's Semi-Annual Shoe and Handbag Sale is going on now through March 22, which makes this the perfect opportunity to pick up some hot brights for Spring. Color-rich accessories are the foolproof-way to add bold hues like fuchsia, green and yellow to your repertoire.

Our top picks:
[1] Simply Vera Vera Wang Incisive Ballet Flats, $59.99 $41.99
[2] apt. 9 Studded Tote, $48.00 $28.80
[3] daisy fuentes Ruched Flap Clutch, $34.00 $20.40
[4] MIA Macie Wedge Sandals, $44.99 $32.99

Spring Fashion as Art (Nouveau)


Many designers drew inspiration from Art Nouveau for their Spring 2008 collections, including Prada, Alexander McQueen, and T-Bags—with brilliant results. We'll take advantage of this opportunity to present a mini refresher course in art history:

From Wikipedia: Art Nouveau (French for 'new art') is an international style of art, architecture and design that peaked in popularity at the turn of the 20th century (1890―1905) and is characterized by highly-stylized, flowing, curvilinear designs often incorporating floral and other plant-inspired motifs.

Above left: The work of Alphonse Mucha (1860-1939), especially as a poster artist, came to symbolize the full flowering of the style and the era.

Above right: Forever 21 adopts Art Nouveau's intricate forms in this beautiful sleeveless woven tunic with a floral crochet top and a waist tie sash ($22.80).

Are you inspired or tired of all the art-world influences in fashion for Spring?

Spring Forward: Forever 21 Must-Haves




Step lightly into spring with these seven trends, all available at Forever21.com:
[1] Gladiator sandals (Benefit Metallic Sandal, $12.80)
[2] White handbags (Cassie Studio tote, $22.80)
[3] Lightweight jackets (Brilliant cotton jacket, $13.50. Available in 5 colors)
[4] Stripes (Brilliant stripe tee, $7.50. Available in 5 colors)
[5] Geometric Lines (Lucille Knit Dress, $22.80)
[6] Ruffle Details (Chiffon Ruffle Blouse, $22.80)
[7] Ombre (Sophie Ombre Scarf, $7.80. Available in 5 colors)