The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

What to Wear and Where to Shop in London

Recently I received a question from a reader seeking advice about what to wear and where to shop for a trip to London. Apparently, my readers are quite the world travelers! Fortunately, so are many of my friends: Today's guest blogger is none other than the Budget Babe's International Travel Advisor Fifi LaMode (an alias), who regular readers may recall has brought us tales of her countless travel adventures from Guatemala to Greece since this blog first launched. Read on for Fifi's expert advice, whether you're planning a trip or just want a little escapism for your weekend.


Written by Fifi LaMode
Since I haven't been in London in a dog's age, I asked an expert - my husband, who hails from across the pond. Here's his advice: Aside from the usual tourist stuff, which you can check out in any guide book, go to Trafalgar Square to get a feel for the trappings of the old Empire. A short walk away is the church of St. Martin's in the Fields where they have free concerts (check the days and times). Downstairs in the church there's a restaurant where you can have a cheap good meal and the floor is full of tombstones from days of yore. He says it's one of London's best kept secrets.

Ask BB: Multi-Buckle Belts on a Budget

I am seriously searching for a belt like this picture (right). It doesn't have to have as many strands as the picture but at least have 2 strands and doesn't have to be as thick at the back—it could be a thin belt all the way around. Any help would be great. —Y

That belt is hot, I can see why you'd want one! Double the fun of a single strap belt, the latest crop of hot belts have two or more buckles. I personally own this belt by Xhilaration from Target ($16.99), and I love it (see me wearing it here). Below, you'll find my picks for the best multi-buckle belts on a budget from around the web. Hope this helps!

New Store Spotlight: Akira Chicago




UPDATE: Use code BUDGETBABE for 15% off any full price merchandise

Akira is a Chicago fashion phenom, and it's one of the stores I miss most now that I'm living away from home (but I always visit when I'm in town). This trend-driven boutique features a mix of high and low-end clothing, accessories, shoes, handbags and jewelry. You can find designer shades and a cheap jersey top, a LaRok mini and a Free People tee, all under one roof (well, actually I think they have 6 locations now!). Their main North avenue store is a must-visit if you're ever in Chicago, but their online store is almost as impressive. It's still relatively new and they've got some work to do, but I think that if Akira plays their cards right, they could become the next Shopbop. Here are the spoils of my online hunt at Shop Akira Chicago (http://shop.akirachicago.com/):



BB Dakota Cupcake Dress, $64. The print. That shape! This is one hot floral frock.





Akira Leaf Print Dress, $69. If florals aren't your thing, the wispy leaf print on this dress may be calling your name.





Akira Print Skirt with Tulle, $32. Louis Vuitton and Just Cavalli made tribal chic hot for spring, and this skirt is a great way to work the trend your own way.





Akira Clutch, $34. Citrus hues are hot this season, too. Love this juicy orange color.





Classified Fenris-H Sandle, $29. Beaded and studded is the way to wear your sandals this summer.





Akira Denim Jumpsuit, $44. This denim jumpsuit has the ease and convenience of a dress: Just toss on one piece, and you're good to go.


Deal du Jour: Select Nine West Shoes $19.95 at 6pm.com





Nine West "Famia" Orig. $69.00 Now $19.95. Reminiscent of the ever-popular Kork-Ease sandals, these 8-hour wedges will work with everything you own.



The Deal: This Weekend! Nine West! Special Group only $19.95!


Why You Need It: Nine West is one of the best shoe brands for the fashion and budget conscious woman, hands down. They carry the latest trends as well as timeless styles to round out your shoe wardrobe. Pick up some cute summer wedges like the "Famia" (above) to wear with shorts, skirts, capris, dresses or for added height under a maxi dress.

New Store Spotlight: Francesca's Collections

If you've ever shopped in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood, then you probably already love Francesca's Collections for it's unique, treasure-trove approach to retail. The store is filled with charming jewelry, gifts, apparel and home accessories that seem handpicked from around the globe—all at affordable prices. I didn't even realize they had an online boutique (as well as multiple store locations nationwide!!) until reader Claudia tipped me off to this exciting fact. Definitely check this store out if you have one near you, and if not, browse their stellar online store. Here's a sampling of the great things you'll discover (click any image for more info):




Pearl Harbor Maxi, $44. A Hawaii-inspired floral makes a bold statement on this floor length maxi.





Santa Monica Pier Wrap, $34. Nautical stripes make this the perfect lightweight cover-up for summer outings.





Madame President Choker, $24. A classic oversized pearl necklace is so very Mrs. O!





Let It Be Dress, $44. I'm still loving these two-in-one colorblock dresses made popular by designer brands like Theory. Just add cute sandals and a purse and you're all set.





Stone Butterfly Brooch, $24. A vintage-look brooch can be worn so many ways. Love the turquoise color.





First Kiss Tote, $44. An intricate woven lattice exterior lends interest and texture to this white tote.