The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

What Are Your Top 10 Beauty Products?

Real Style Real People recently did a fun post about the top 10 best-selling beauty products according to Glamour magazine, and then asked her readers to share theirs. It got me thinking about my own list, which is constantly evolving—I like to try new things and mix it up! I've also been trending towards organic, all-natural products for things like shampoo, body wash, and lotion (working my way up to makeup on that front).

Here's my current Top 10 List, share yours in the comments:

1. Nature's Gate Tea Tree Calming Shampoo and Conditioner: Hydrating, all-natural formulas have even made my hairdresser take note. This is my favorite fragrance from the Nature's Path line, the other ones smell a tad too hippie. I get this in the "natural/organic" aisle of my local grocery store.

2. L'Occitane en Provence Honey & Lemon Foaming Jelly: I received a bottle of this as a gift, and while it has a really pungent odor, I love the color, consistency and even the fragrance. Makes me feel French.

3. Kiss My Face Olive/Aloe Natural Moisturizer (fragrance-free variety): Yes, I switched from Clinique a couple weeks ago and my skin has never looked better. (There was nothing wrong with my Clinique lotion, I was just bored and ready for a change.) I usually apply two light coats of Kiss My Face's rich formula, which takes a few seconds to be absorbed, but is in no way greasy or heavy. Love the fact that it's virtually fragrance free, and comes in a big bottle with a convenient pump dispenser.

4. Alba Sea Algae Enzyme Facial Scrub: With a fresh scent reminiscent of a high-end spa, this fine-grit facial scrub is gentle enough for every day use. You can really work this onto your skin to remove dead skin without drying it out, which is what I love about this stuff. I buy mine at Target on sale, and it's also available at Whole Foods (I think).

5. Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Custom Bronzer, Blush & Eye Shadow in Waikiki Strip/Peachy Glow Bronzer: I have a feeling this isn't the healthiest product for my skin (which tends to get red if I rub my face after applying--oops!) but it gives my pale complexion a seriously gorgeous glow. When I use this one up, I'm going to try the Physicians Formula organic bronzer next.

Dress by Number: Shenae Grimes in Harem Pants


No matter what you think about harem pants, you've got to admit: Shenae Grimes looks really cute in them! Here, she's paired the controversial, voluminous pants with a Lauren Moshi tank (those hand-drawn designer T-shirts all the celebs wear), a black leather convertible tote and nude patent pumps. Steal her Arabian-Nights-meets-safari-chic look with affordable finds from Urban Outfitters, Forever 21, Newport-News and more. (Find all my picks plus the "real deal" items using the widget below.)

[1] Leather-Look Tote, Newport-News, $39
[2] Elephant Tank, Forever 21, $11.80
[3] Natural History Necklace, Urban Outfitters, $38
[4] Silence & Noise Harem Pants, Urban Outfitters, $38
[5] Bracelet, Target.com, $8.99
[6] Madden Girl Nude Patent Pumps, Zappos.com, $49.90


Felix Rey for Target: Love It or Leave It?


Felix Ray for Target Handbag Collection

The Felix Rey for Target handbag collection hit stores March 29, bringing a "colorful, beach-inspired vibe" from handbag designers Lily Band and Sulaika Zarrouk. The collection consists of straw, canvas or nylon totes, clutches and beach bags featuring sea life motifs such as fish, coral and shells, which range in price from $19.99 to $49.99. I think this collection is too cute for words, and I'll probably pick up the large fish tote. It's big and roomy and well-made, perfect for toting summer essentials to the beach. The Felix Rey for Target collection will be available at select Target stores nationwide and on Target.com through June 14, 2009. Did this line meet your expectations?

(MORE PICS AFTER THE JUMP)


The Look for Less: Jimmy Choo Snake Wedge Sandal



Jimmy Choo at ShopStyle


Now that the Louboutin frenzy over at Gilt has subsided, let's turn our attention to another coveted designer shoe brand, Jimmy Choo. These Jimmy Choo 'Connor Elaphe' Snake Wedge Sandals would be the perfect neutral shoe for summer, if they didn't cost $695 at Net-a-Porter...



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...ahh, much better! The Mossimo 'Paz' Faux-Snake Wedge is a fabulous, inexpensive alternative that costs just $29.99 at Target.com. I saw these in person and they look splendid, plus they were on sale at my local store for $21.99.



Wet Seal at ShopStyle


...and here's another option, which features a higher, chunkier wedge. Very hot. Pick up this Snake Print Wedge at Wet Seal for just $24.50.

The Look for Less: Christian Louboutin Ankle Boots



Christian Louboutin at ShopStyle


Your heart is no doubt racing in anticipation of today's Christian Louboutin sale at Gilt.com, which starts at 12 noon EST (I know mine is!!). What girl doesn't openly or secretly yearn for a pair of those red-soled shoes—like the Armadillo Pleated Leather Booties above? (Sold out at Bergdorf Goodman, but they were originally $1,155.)



Wet Seal at ShopStyle


...Not to be a kill-joy, but maybe a girl who doesn't want to go into debt over shoes! In honor of the occasion, you could pick up these red-sole Christian Louboutin look-alikes instead. Aptly named the 'Bandage Bootie,' these knockoffs cost just $29.50 at Wet Seal.

Oh heck. Just shop the sale—but get there on time! I have a feeling these babies will sell out in minutes. Use the link below to join:

http://www.gilt.com/invite/budgetbabe