The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

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

FIRST LOOK: MCQ ALEXANDER MCQEEN FOR TARGET


Nylon has first look photos of the highly anticipated Alexander McQueen Collection for Target. Using Leila Moss, the lead singer to the Duke Spirit, as his creative inspiration, McQueen turned out skinny jeans, leggings, graphic tees, a jumpsuit, and some simple dresses in a desaturated black, white and gray color palette punctuated by pops of cobalt blue and hot pink.

"I wanted my Target collection to feature key aspects of the McQ Alexander McQueen aesthetic, classic craftsmanship with a rebellious, nostalgic flare,” McQueen told NYLON. "The collection is comprised of effortless, chic menswear inspired tailored pieces that women will feel confident wearing."

Looking past the androgynous styling of these models, I can see myself rocking many of these looks, especially the dresses (LOVE the one-shoulder number in the top row). I've also got my eye on that gray jacket worn with a blue abstract print dress, and the jumpsuit (oh yes, it will be mine.)

What do you think of this collection so far? (Lots more pics below)












Ask BB: The Skinny on Twelve by Twelve


Cute, cheap dresses from Twelve by Twelve are perfectly sweet for Valentine's Day. (From left: Belted Dress, $39; Feather Trim Dress, $46; Tiered Sweater Dress, $32)

[A]lthough you are always mentioning Forever 21, I'm wondering what you have heard about Twelve by Twelve. Their stuff is super cute and affordable, I'm hoping you could perhaps give me a more in depth review. Thanks! —Claudia

Twelve by Twelve is the "luxe" line from Forever 21, and I think it is an excellent value. This contemporary collection features an ever-changing array of tops, dresses, sweaters, bottoms and more, that follow the latest fashion trends. If feathers, lace and leggings are hot on the runways, Twelve by Twelve will have budget-friendly versions of those trends in a flash.

F21's Shibuya Mon Amour Line is Now Available Online


Shibuya Mon Amour for Forever 21

Forever 21's new Shibuya Mon Amour line is now available online, and consists of cotton tees and tanks featuring artsy line drawings of animals. The description on the site says, "Inspired by the cool kids of Tokyo and Paris, Shibuya Mon Amour is girly, street, punk and fashion. Live it, love it, Shibuya Mon Amour." Gotta love those copywriters! At any rate, the tees are adorable and edgy, but I don't see what the big deal is. Maybe there is no big deal? Anywho I like the long lengths on these, just hope the fabric's thicker/better quality to warrant the prices, which range from $13.80 to $17.80. Thanks to reader Alison for the tip!