Last week we posted about the launch of Forever 21's new swimwear collection, and this week our Chicago-based budget-shopping correspondent (aka my sister) headed to the mall to check it out. She snapped a few photos with her cell phone, so the quality of the images isn't great, BUT she reports that the quality of the actual bathing suits is stellar! Lots of fun, feisty prints and amazing prices (most pieces are under $20), she reports.

In addition to the new swim suits, my sis also said she saw what appeared to be a limited-edition Bollywood Collection from Twelve by Twelve (Forever 21's luxe line). No doubt riding on the success of the Academy-award winning film Slumdog Millionaire, the new Bollywood fashion line features casual day dresses in sari-inspired fabrics, and a rich, jewel-tone color palette of brilliant blues, oranges, and reds. While my sister wasn't able to photograph the Bollywood clothing, she took a photo of the clothing tag as evidence (below).





Keep reading to see all the photos...

It's been a while since I've posted anything about Vera Wang's affordable collection for Kohl's, Simply Vera Vera Wang, and I think it's time to revisit the subject. First, I must say that I've defended this line's prices for far too long: It's too freakin' expensive! There, I said it. Sure, you can score great deals on this stuff when it's on sale (I almost bought a lovely LBD yesterday for $19 but figured I didn't really need it). And yes, combined with Kohl's' legendary coupons and Kohl's credit card discounts, those great deals can become great bargains. But I still experience sticker shock each time I look at those full price numbers, especially the $100 nylon handbags and $50 thin polyester blouses.

Having said that, I still love Vera and I think you'd be hard pressed to find another collection as creative and artsy anywhere else for much less. Simply Vera is also targeted towards a more mature female audience, and I think there's some great office wear and a nice range of sizes, something which can't be said for, say, Target's GO International collections.


On a positive note, I am often impressed by the tasteful Simply Vera Vera Wang shoe offerings. They're not perfect, but they provide a stylish, structured counterpoint to the more billowy, deconstructed looks that make up the clothing collection. Here are some photos I snapped during yesterday's trip—those navy patent wedges were calling my name! Also loved the pewter gladiator sandals, sadly, the straps were too loose and didn't provide enough stability when walking.

Are you a Simply Vera fan? What are your thoughts on the collection now that it's been around for a year and a half? (More photos after the jump...)

Today's sales at Gilt Groupe include Giambattista Valli, Azaara jewelry, and Gryson handbags. Sorry for the late notice, I was out shoveling snow (got a good 8 inches and it's still falling). Ladies should be sure to check out the McQueen men's sale too, I missed out on an awesome skull scarf (which is obviously unisex)! Argh. All sales start today, Monday 3/2 at 12 PM ET. Use this link to join the sales: http://www.gilt.com/invite/budgetbabe

And the winner is... #37 Justine, who writes "With diamonds as both my birthstone (April) and my zodiac stone (Aries) I have had a long lived love affair with them. It's the sparkle, the class, general joie de vive they inspire." Congratulations to our winner and special thanks to Ice.com for making this giveaway possible!

Please note: This contest has now closed.

Bling alert: We've teamed up with the fabulous folks from the jewelry store Ice.com to give one lucky Budget Babe reader the chance to win a stunning pair of 1/4 carat stud diamond earrings set in beautiful 14k white gold!

Diamond solitaire studs are the perfect accessory for every occasion, casual or sophisticated, and ICE.com is the perfect place to purchase rings, watches, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, diamonds and other special gifts with a savings of up to 70 percent off retail.

To enter, visit Ice.com, then tell us why you think diamonds are a girl's best friend in the comment section below. Good luck ladies!!

Be sure to use a valid email address and include info(at)thebudgetbabe.com in your address book so we can contact you if you're the winner. Comments must be posted by 12 midnight ET on Friday March 6 to be eligible to win. One reader will win a pair of 1/4 Carat Diamond 14K White Gold Stud Earrings (Estimated retail value: $300; ICE.com price: $150). Winner will be chosen at random, and will be announced on Saturday March 7.

Some assistance please: Earlier this week, I spotted this bright coral trench by ELLE for Kohl's online (see product pic above). I thought it looked good as featured in their spring lookbook, so today I decided to check it out in person—and it's actually really cute in person (I think).




The fabric has a nice sheen to it, the adorable collar frames the face nicely, and the pleat detailing along the cuffs and hem adds a subtle, chic touch. Overall, this trench fit me well and the color brought a smile to my face (despite the crummy lighting in the photo above).

The problem with this trench is that it's very lightweight, so it may not be warm enough for oftentimes chilly (and rainy) March weather. I'm also not loving the price, it's still over $50 on sale. What do you think, would you wear something like this? Should I get it or wait for something better to come along?