The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

The Look for Less: London Times Colorblock Dress



London Times at ShopStyle


This London Times cap-sleeve colorblock dress would look smart at the office with a blazer and sexy in the evening worn alone. You could also dress it up for attending a wedding or wear it to a graduation, as the guest or the grad! Though it's not exactly a splurge, this two-in-one dress costs $80 at Dillards.com.



Forever 21 at ShopStyle


Here's another version of this colorblocking style featuring the same bold blue hue on top and slimming black on the bottom, except this one's strapless. Save on the look at Forever21.com for a mere $24.80.

Ask BB: Military Band Jackets on a Budget

I've been searching for a military-style blazer. Rihanna and Beyonce are fond of this style and I absolutely love the look. Any help on finding styles that are not too thick and can be worn during the summer would be greatly appreciated—on a budget of course! [Here's] an idea of what I mean. —Debola

From the Sergeant Pepper jackets seen on the Balmain runway, to the band-inspired vest from 3.1 Phillip Lim, sharply tailored jackets, blazers and vest with an updated military feel are a popular trend for Spring/Summer 2009. I love the decorative button detailing that make many of these pieces stand out, as well as the structured, regimented look that the military jacket can bring to any outfit.

If you can get past the cheesy product shot, this jacket from Newport-News provides one of the best ways to rock this look on a budget. For more great affordable options, browse my hand-picked selections in the widget below.