The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Save 75% Off at the Calvin Klein Online Store




Spend your Saturday night shopping the Calvin Klein clearance sale, where you can save up to 75% off dozens of fabulous, sophisticated styles. Pick up an on-trend sequin top, originally $148 now marked down to just $9.99. Or, indulge in a silk ombre top, originally $128 now just $14.99. There are also amazing winter coats like the luxe angora coat shown above, marked down from $298 to just $29.99. Doesn't get much better than this, for quality clothes you can wear right now. Thanks to reader Ruth for the tip!

>> Shop the sale at CalvinKlein.com

Ask BB: How to Keep Your Boots in Shape

I'm aware that there is such a thing as a "slouchy boot," well, mine aren't. I've worn them several times and now they are starting to slouch around the ankles, making them look very unattractive. How can I fix this? —Claudia

I'm afraid there's no way to restore your boots to their original state, however, there are some things you can do to prevent them from slouching even more. First, be careful when you'll pulling your boots on and off. If they lace or zip up, be sure to loosen them all the way before slipping them onto your feet so you do as little damage as possible.

Second, make sure you're storing your boots properly; either roll up some cardboard and place it in the shaft of each boot to maintain the shape (keep the packaging your boots came with), or buy some of these boot shapers from the Container Store ($9.99 for a set of 2).

The next time you're shopping for boots, look for a pair that fits fairly snug around the calf and around the ankles—there shouldn't be a wide gap in either place. Also, keep in mind that part of what gives leather boots their character and charm is the way they change over time; sometimes a little slouch can be a good thing!

Runway to Real Way: Balmain Spring 2009


Balmain inspired looks for spring 2009

You can tell who's hot in the fashion world by looking at who's getting knocked off, and these days, Balmain is smoking. Remember those fringe ankle boots that everyone wanted back in the fall? Like it or not, it looks like this spring will bring even more Balmain fever. From strappy crystal-studded heels and bandage wrap dresses, to big shouldered blazers and ripped lightwash jeans, Balmain delivered the high-fashion looks that we'll be seeing soon on the high street.

I don't know if I'll be able to incorporate any of these elements into my personal wardrobe, but you must admit, those heels are fabulous! If I was a model, I definitely would have wanted to get booked for Balmain's spring show. Every look he dropped on that runway was fierce. Inspired by his awesomeness, I pulled together a few budget-friendly pieces that have that rock-chic spirit. Think you'll be channeling Balmain this spring?

Clockwise from top: Fornarina Studded Jean Jacket, $29.99 at 1site1price.com; C7P Super Destructed Flare, Was $50 Now $34.99 at JCPenney.com; Metallic Mesh Belt, Was $48 Now $29 at ArmaniExchange.com; "Smeal" Embellished Heels, $125 at AldoShoes.com


Look for Less: L.A.M.B. Hunter Button Strap Bootie


Chloe Bakers Strap Booties

Bakers has done it again. This time, the affordable shoe retailer has knocked-off L.A.M.B.'s "Hunter" Button Strap Bootie with a shoe they call the "Chleo," which is available in either tan or black for $79.95. I honestly can not think of an outfit that could not be complemented by either pair of shoes, but with their antique, Edwardian feel, I think they'd look amazing with something ultra-feminine and vintage Thoughts?

Left: Chleo pumps, $79.95 at BakerShoes.com
Right: L.A.M.B. Women's Hunter Button Strap Bootie, $379.95 at Endless.com

Charlotte Ronson Sale Today at Gilt Groupe




The Charlotte Ronson sale begins today, Friday, January 30th at 12:00 PM EST at Gilt Groupe. Need an invite? Click here: http://www.gilt.com/invite/budgetbabe

From the Gilt Groupe blog:
"London-born and New York raised, designer Charlotte Ronson earned instant recognition and the attention of publications like Teen Vogue, WWD and the New York Times after launching her self-named collection in 2000..."