Graduation season is in full swing, and if you've been busy concentrating on those finals and haven't had time to buy a dress yet, don't despair. Here are 8 cute dresses under $50 that will have you graduating in style.




[1] Silky Floral Belted Dress, $22.80, Forever21.com
[2] Floral Belted Dress, $24.80, Forever21.com
[3] Colorblock dress, Was $64 Now $49, Newport-News.com
[4] Ruched Knit Dress, $22.80
[5] Satin Trim Knit Dress, $22.80, Forever21.com
[6] Sleeveless Dress with Crossover V-Neck, $44.00, AnnTaylorLoft.com
[7] Side-Ruched Sundress, Was $60 Sale $24.99, JCPenney.com
[8] ELLE Basket Weave Dress, Was $50.00 Sale $34.99 , Kohls.com

The Deal: Save an Extra 25% Off Clearance Items at macys.com! Offer Valid 28-May-2009 through 31-May-2009.

Why You Need It: If you're looking for a dress that actually extends past your mid-thigh and maybe even reaches your knees, Macy's is the place to go. I have been struggling to find special occasion dresses this season that aren't super short and have been pleased with what I'm seeing at Macy's. And of course, one never shops at Macy's unless there's a sale, so now's your chance, ladies!

DKNYC V-Neck Sleeveless Linen Dress, Orig. $139.00, Was $83.40, Now $62.55

The words "sophisticated" and "romper" are rarely uttered in the same breath, but I came across an outfit on Net-a-porter.com that got me thinking: Can a romper be more than child's play? The trouble is, even if the outfit on the left works, it costs a grand total of $537.50 (not including the purse). I managed to recreate the look with budget fashion finds from Forever 21 and Express, but I can't decide whether or not the cheap substitutes convey the same level of sophistication. Thoughts?

This Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent strapless romper is ideal for outdoor summer festival-fun. It's currently out of stock, but retailed for $240 at Shopbop.com.


Here's a more cost-effective but just as cute option: This button-front strapless romper gives you a similar look for just $29.00 at AkiraChicago.com. I'd wear it as a poolside cover-up with a floppy hat, big shades and flat sandals.

Exclusive Deal: Use code WELOVEBUDGETBABE for a 15% off discount at AkiraChicago.com!

Ever since Carrie Bradshaw elevated the name necklace from mall-kiosk kitsch to catwalk couture, I have wanted one of these silly things for myself. So when I was asked to review a sample necklace from MyNamenecklace.com, I jumped at the opportunity. I requested the aptly named "Carrie" style name necklace in sterling silver with a 16" long chain, and it's practically perfect. (How can a necklace with my name on it not be perfect?) The font is just right, there are no sharp edges, and the proportions are exactly as I had hoped.

If you're feeling nostalgic for the '90s, pick up your own personalized name necklace for $29.95 on sale (reg. $39.95) at MyNamenecklace.com.

Exclusive Deal Update: Get an 8% discount on all the items in the website with code BDG8