The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: How to Wear White Pants

I just bought these white pants from The Limited. [Do you have] any outfit ideas for work and play to go with these pants? —D

White pants are a summer wardrobe essential. They're surprisingly easy to keep clean and they will not make you look bottom heavy so long as you choose the right cut and fit. Be sure to wear flesh-tone undergarments (not white) so nothing shows through, and enough of a heel so the hems don't get dirty (or have them hemmed to the proper length if you'll be wearing them with flats). Unless you work in a very casual work environment, I probably would not wear white pants to the office—maybe on a casual Friday if you feel comfortable. But that's just me!

Now that we got that out of the way...white pants can be styled so many ways! Here are three affordable outfit ideas I put together which incorporate some current trends. Think about how you might put your own stamp on each look.



Ask BB: Affordable Floral Wedges

I have been looking for some cute floral wedges for spring. Any ideas where I could find a cute, affordable pair? —Nora

You can't help but smile when you see flowers on your feet. Here are 10 affordable floral wedges that will add color and sheer joy to your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Click any image for details.




Ann Taylor Loft at ShopStyle


BB's Top Pick: Lara Flower Detail Wedge, $69 at Ann Taylor Loft. Deal: 20% Off All Purchases of $75 or More • Enter Code 104004175 at Checkout • Ends 5/2


Reader Request: Matt Bernson Barracuda Sandal for Less



Matt Bernson at ShopStyle


Today's "look for less" was requested by a reader who says she loves these Matt Bernson Barracuda sandals, but isn't loving the price—they're $175 at Piperlime.com. Celebs like Sarah Jessica Parker, Miley Cyrus and Leighton Meester are all fans of Matt Bernson, too, a brand that distinguishes itself by blending luxurious details with comfortable styling. Each pair is hand cut leather and "soulfully made in Brazil," says their website (find out more about Matt Bernson shoes at mattbernson.com), which explains the higher prices.

For those on a budget, here are some alternatives that won't break the bank. (Click any image for details.)

Ask BB: How to Wear a Floral Headband

I love the flowery headpieces that are currently just about everywhere in stores. I purchased a few and now have no idea what to wear with them. What are the best types of pieces of clothing to wear when donning one of these types of bold hair accessories? —A

Floral headbands are among some of the most popular hair accessories out there, and you can pick up affordable versions everywhere from Forever 21 to Etsy.com. I think the sky's the limit as far as how you choose to wear one, but here are some visuals I put together to help you incorporate these fun, feminine pieces into your wardrobe:

Ask BB: What to Wear to a Baby Shower

I am attending my first baby shower for a college roommate. The shower is a lunch at a local restaurant in NJ. With the fluctuating weather and changing of seasons I am stumped as what to wear. Can you suggest any great outfits for this?

I'm going to kill two birds with one stone, so to speak, and say wear a cute dress and shop Kmart! Yes, Kmart of all places is actually stepping up their game with some—dare I say—fashionable clothing, shoes and accessories.

I never would have suggested Kmart if it weren't for other fashion bloggers like Cheap Chica and Fab Finds Under $50, as well as one of my readers, Dina. Seems like everyone is clamoring about Kmart's new look, so I finally checked it out for myself online (granted, I haven't seen these in person) and I was pleasantly surprised by what I found.

Here are three baby shower outfits you can put together with items from Kmart.com for just $130. Total. For ALL three outfits!



Dig this set? Click for details on all items shown.


Oh, and to address the changing temps, simply wear a camisole under your dress, top with a cardigan, and add opaque tights depending on the weather on the day of the shower. A classic beige trench will give you added protection from the elements if it's extra chilly or rainy.

Deal Alert: Kmart also has a deal going on right now where you can save $10 off any $50 women's clothing purchase. Enter code KSPRINGFASHION4 at checkout, or click here to download your in-store coupon.