The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Name That Knock-Off: Zipper Booties


Any self-respecting shoe addict will instantly recognize the designer who got knocked off in today's installment of "Name that Knock-Off." Actually, anyone with an internet connection will probably know who was responsible for the original design. It's proven to be quite popular with it's edgy zipper detail, glossy patent finish, and trendy shoe-boot hybrid styling. Forever 21 had a version of this shoe months ago, and now it's Charlotte Russe's turn to play copycat. So who got knocked-off this time? Keep reading for the answer.

Norma Kamali for Walmart Review




Last week, I did the unthinkable and placed an order with Walmart.com. Shopping at Walmart is a sticky subject, considering many consumers see them as an evil empire. I find it almost unbearable to shop there in person, but I was determined to review the new Normal Kamali collection, so after two failed attempts to find it at stores near me, I bit the bullet and bought a couple items from their website.

Jillian Dempsey for Avon Essential Beauty Palette

The Budget Beauty Babe reviews a beauty palette that takes the guesswork out of finding makeup that matches. —BB


by The Budget Beauty Babe
This week I was asked to test out the new Jillian Dempsey for Avon Essential Beauty Palette in Warm (see photos), and it is such a treat! This compact, easy-to-tote palette features makeup that has been perfectly matched to compliment one another. The Warm palette (which is what I tested), includes Ultra Color Rich Lipstick in Delicate Rose and Peony Pink, Jillian Dempsey Professional Cream Eyeshadow in Stone and Burnished Bronze and Be Blushed in Powder Pink. All the makeup comes presented in a lovely Moroccan inspired palette, which adds to the appeal.

ASOS Update and Reader Feedback

UPDATE: Asos Now Charging $6 Shipping to the U.S.

Recently, I wrote a comprehensive post about my first (and only) shopping experience with ASOS.com, the UK's "online fashion store." In my report, I mentioned that the high cost of shipping (I was charged $40 for 3 items) would probably prevent me from shopping with ASOS in the future.

Well, it just so happens that my story grabbed the attention of some folks over at ASOS headquarters. In fact, one of their managers emailed me to let me know a couple things: First, he said that my order was improperly billed as an "express" shipment when in fact, it should have been much less considering how long my items took to arrive (about 9 days). Secondly, they offered to refund my shipping charge, and stated that they've corrected this procedural error on their end. I must say, it feels pretty good to think they noticed and care enough to try to remedy a problem and please a customer. Props to ASOS customer service!

The ASOS peeps also asked for my opinion on how they could improve their delivery service to the United States, and here's where I'd love to have your feedback. What would YOU like to see from ASOS shipping? Is it speed (e.g. $40 for 2 day delivery) OR lower cost (e.g. $5 for within 8 days)?

My answer is simple: Give me my items within a week for $5! That would rock. In fact, that would definitely encourage me to give them another chance. What about you ladies? Would you be more willing to shop at ASOS if they offered lower shipping fees? I would love to hear your feedback--and the people from ASOS are listening, too!