The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

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)












DVF's Obama 08 Love Tote Bag


Diane Von Furstenberg's Obama 08 Love Tote Bag may just be the perfect Valentine for a socially conscious, fashionably savvy young lady. At $75, it's not exactly cheap, but you could rationalize this purchase by saying that you're getting 3 gifts in one: something designer (DVF), something eco (it's reusable) and something patriotic (the tote reads "Obama 08, hope, change.") A great value, after all!

Shop it: Diane Von Furstenberg's Obama 08 Love Tote Bag, $75 at the official Barack Obama Online Store (store.barackobama.com)

How to Wear Colored Tights




Colored tights have been popular for a few seasons now, and I think it's safe to say this trend is here to stay. For Fall 2008, designers like Anna Sui, Just Cavalli and Chloe mixed patterned tights with dresses and heels, a perfectly chic—and inexpensive—way to add warmth when temperatures drop. As spring approaches (eek, I said the "S" word!), you can continue to pair those boldly colored tights with skirts, frocks and sandals. I'll admit this isn't the easiest look to pull off, so let's look for some inspiration off the runway...




Representing the west coast, Cupcakes and Cashmere (left) rocks her bright red tights as only a California girl could—with a relaxed shirtdress, gray suede boots and Foley + Corinna handbag, all in neutral shades to temper the eye-catching hue on her legs.

New York City's retrogurl aka nitro:licious (middle) shows off her floral Forever 21 tights by pairing them with a black dress and towering black booties. With it's reserved exuberance, this look can go from day to night.

Former Spice Girl Geri Halliwell (not a blogger but oh well) does a nice job pairing purple tights with a monochromatic black outfit. This is probably the approach I would take since it's a cute, cheap way to update an LBD.




Where to shop for colored tights:


  • MyTights.com: Features every pattern and color imaginable, from plaid checks to Pucci swirls.


  • Lovecolour-Lovetights.com: Lets you shop by color, type and pattern so you can find exactly what you're looking for.


  • FreePeople.com: A carefully edited selection of colored, patterned and textured tights that will inspire and awe.


  • Anthropologie.com: These essential opaque tights, available in 7 colors, cost just $12.50.


  • Forever21.com: It's hard to beat F21's wide selection (floral, stripes, solids) and low prices (all tights are under $10).


  • Target: You can always count on Tar-zhay for inexpensive accessories (like tights) that will help you update your wardrobe for less.


What do you think of colored tights?

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.