The line between what's hot and what's a hot mess can often be hazy what with all the tempting trends out there. I've made one too many fashion blunders because of this, and so I've decided to do a new installment here on The Babe that allows you, the reader, to help me make that distinction: Fierce or tranny?

Let's start with these super sexy Jimmy Choo "Elipse" cracked-gold leather sandals (at left). My vote: Undeniably fierce. The price ($695), not so much, which led me to search for a budget-friendly version (at right): The "Diem" platform sandal from Bakers. It's got the cracked gold leather look, the tall stiletto heel and the slight platform - but does the "Diem" hold the same allure as the Jimmy Choos...or does it scream dancer at The Baton?

Give it to me straight, ladies: Are these shoes fierce or tranny? (Please note that I use the word lovingly. But it's not the look I'm going for.)

American tattoo artist Ed Hardy's vintage tattoo graphics were the most sought after body art of his time. Now Hardy, who was the first Western tattoo artist to incorporate Japanese tattoo aesthetic and technique into his work, has lent his name (and vintage tattoo designs) to everything from apparel to watches, hats, shoes, bags and more. While there's no denying Hardy's talent as an artist, his duds carry some pretty steep pricetags. You can find authentic Ed Hardy licensed products at places like Nordstrom Rack for cheap. Or, get the look with one of the many tattoo-inspired tees available at fashion chains like Wet Seal. Are you an Ed Hardy fan?

Left: Ed Hardy EH Mum Dip-Dye Tee at RevolveClothing.com, $88.00
Right: Flying Rose Tattoo Tee at WetSeal.com, $17.50

The future of budget fashion seems to include a slew of exclusive, invite-only designer sample sale websites - and that bunch of cutting-edge shopping destinations includes Ideeli.

Ideeli, which Cnet.com described as "Woot.com meets The Devil Wears Prada," is a members-only shopping community for trendsetting women which offers authentic luxury items at preferential prices to their members – plus giveaways every week.

The catch: You must join to access these exclusive offers.

The good news: Budget Babe readers got the hook up! Just click here to join.

Or, you can go to www.ideeli.com and type in the special invitation code: budbabe1

The code will expire September 1, so check it out soon!

Above: An example of an upcoming giveaway at Ideeli.com for a Chloe Riva Double-Zip handbag.

I feel like there are dozens of fab designers from Spring 2008 that I haven't even begun to talk about, so I'm going to have to cram a bunch of them in before Fall fashion takes over. Let's begin with Lanvin, who had perhaps one of the most influential and successful shows - need I explain why? Writer Sarah Mower does a superb job of deconstructing Alber Elbaz's uplifting collection, so I highly recommend you read her review at Style.com. What I will add is that Elbaz is, no doubt, in part responsible for all the ruffles and tiers (paired with fierce statement shoes, of course) that we're seeing in fast fashion chains everywhere. Expect continued buzz about Lanvin come Fall, and in the meantime, channel the great designer with these cheap & chic looks from Wet Seal:




[1] Smocked Ruffle Trim Dress at WetSeal.com, $21.50
[2] Ruffle Trim Halter Dress Was $26.50 Now $15.00
[3] Ruffle One Shoulder Dress at WetSeal.com, $21.50

For those of you still stuck on Herve Leger's bandage dress, here are two more affordable options from Eliza J (left) and Forever 21. Work it, ladies.

Left: Eliza J Tiered cocktail dress at Nordstrom.com, $138
Right: Satin tiered halter dress at Forever21.com, $24.80