The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: Plus-Size Rompers on a Budget

Since "rompers" are a new item this season, I'd like some help finding one that's right for me. I am 5'4" and very much a curvy girl. I've been shopping around for a romper that I can dress up for night life and can't seem to fit into any of the size large or even extra-large. Help! I love the look and think I can make it work by finding the right one. — Kim, NYC

Rompers, jumpsuits—whatever you want to call them—are definitely hot this season, especially in your hometown (I spotted at least 5 on my last trip). Here are some options that will help you make the look your own:




This romper reads more like sleek dress shorts and a delicate blouse, but the one-piece styling gives it a high fashion edge. [Black Ruffle-Front Knit Sleeveless Romper, $48 at Torrid.com]





This dark denim romper can be dressed up or down. Think vintage ankle boots for day, strappy heels for night. [Torrid Smocked-Back Dark-Wash Romper, $58 at Torrid.com]




Ask BB: Messenger Bags on a Budget

I'm looking for a cute, functional and fun messenger that will fit my lifestyle. Any suggestions? —CW

Here's a great little messenger bag I found at Walmart.com for $25 that boasts a clean design and convenient adjustable strap. According to the product description, a portion of the proceeds from this 100% natural cotton bag supports efforts for a greener planet. Take your pick of three brilliant colors - lime green, tangerine or ivory.



Eastsport Cotton Drawstring Messenger Bag, $25 at Walmart.com (click image for details)



Ask BB: What to Pack for a Las Vegas Vacation

I'm wondering if you have any suggestions for outfits/essentials for my first trip out to Las Vegas. I am 25 years old and will be headed out there with my boyfriend and a group of our mutual friends this June. It will be our first time and we are staying at the Bellagio! —Jess, Brookfield, IL

Ok, first of all, I'm so jealous. I have never been to Vegas ::sniff sniff:: I feel so deprived! However I think my inner party girl can be of some assistance. Here's what I'd pack:

What Are the Best Budget-Friendly Hair Care Products for Curly Hair?



Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm straightens hair without harsh chemicals. ($26 for 3.3 oz at Sephora.com)

I have naturally wavy hair so it takes a bit of work for me to make it look good curly (and even more work to make it straight!). The gels and mousses I've been using from the drugstore are either too light and leave my curls frizzy and fluffy, or they're too hardcore and leave my curls crunchy and stiff-looking. Do you have any budget-friendly recommendations for a product that will leave my curls defined but still looking natural? Thanks! —BK

I'm a fan of all the Sunsilk products because they're cheap and work well (read our review here). If I want to splurge, I'll get Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm ($26 for 3.3 oz at Sephora.com), which was recommended to me by a shi-shi hair stylist years ago. A little goes a long way!

As for curls, I'm no expert as my hair is fine, slightly wavy and prone-to-frizz in the summer, but not curly. Funny, I always wanted curly hair. But I digress: L'Oreal has two new products that I've heard are good, Glossy Curls Mousse and Glossy Curls Spray Gel. Maybe you've seen the ads with Penelope Cruz?

Now I'll open the convo up to my amazingly knowledgeable readers: What hair care products would you recommend to boost BK's curls and tame the wave?

Reader Request: ToyWatch Look for Less



Toy Watch USA at ShopStyle


If there's such a thing as an "it" watch, then TOYWATCH watches are definitely It. These fun timepieces come in a wide range of colors and styles, and have been spotted on the wrists of everyone from Madonna to Oprah Winfrey (TOYWATCH even made her Favorite Things list in 2007). Fans of these Italian-made chronograph wristwatches can find them at Toywatchusa.com ranging in price from $175 to as much as $495.

Not ready to spend the big bucks on a neon plastic watch? Keep reading for 10 affordable TOYWATCH look-alikes that you can test drive before you splurge. (Click any image for details)