The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

The Look for Less: Frye Amarillo Slingbacks



Anthropologie at ShopStyle


I am in love with these Frye peep-toe slingbacks made from rugged whip-stitched leather that have just the slightest hint of cowgirl. If the price drops down just a little bit more, I might have to get them, but they are currently on sale for $129.95 (down from $188.00) at Anthropologie.com. Just don't buy my size! Kidding.



Mossimo Peace Heeled Sandal, $29.99 at Target.com


I am also in love with these Mossimo Peace Heeled Sandals—in fact, I fell in love with these babies first at my local Tar-jay before discovering the Frye "originals" during a routine lust-session over at Anthropologie.com. If I know what's good for me, I'll pick up the Mossimos because they're just $29.99 and actually have real leather uppers. Oh and right now, Target's having a "buy two get one free" sale on select shoes, so check that out too.

The Look for Less: Current/Elliott The Perfect Shirt



Current&Elliot at ShopStyle


Everything about "The Perfect Shirt" by Current/Elliott—a button-down, long-sleeve chambray shirt in the softest sun-faded hue and breathable cotton—truly is perfect. Everything, that is, except the price. It's not exorbitant by any means but $188 is a lot of money to spend on one shirt. Let's look for some cheaper alternatives, shall we?



J.Crew at ShopStyle


For once, J. Crew offers a more affordable version of something! Their perfect chambray shirt is $98 and probably worth every penny (can't say for sure as I do not own one, but I can see this quickly becoming your favorite shirt for summer). Wear it just as you see it here, with colorful shorts and a delicate necklace. Love it!



BDG at ShopStyle


Urban Outfitters also has an affordable chambray shirt for $52, available in either a dark or light wash. Take a cue from this product shot and wear your chambray shirt as you might wear a cardigan—it's a great lightweight layer that will look great over camis, dresses, even rompers. Add a belt on top for even more stylish possibilities.



Gap at ShopStyle


This near-perfect chambray shirt costs just $49.50, and while it's actually for men, a fellow blogger and reader named Chelsea recently dropped me a note to say that she works for the Gap and has noticed many of the men's shirts actually fit her better and are generally priced lower than the women's clothing. The lesson: Borrow from the boys and save some cash!

Think you'll pick up a chambray shirt for summer?

The Look for Less: Hanky Panky Low-Rise Lace Thong



Hanky Panky at ShopStyle


Throngs of women swear by Hanky Panky's sexy and soft low-rise lace thongs, and loyal customers won't hesitate to drop $18 per pair. The unmentionables shown above are available in 16 colors at Saks Fifth Avenue. Deal: Free shipping on all orders • Enter code SAKSSHIP9 at checkout • Ends 6/8

Hanky Panky Lace Thong Knock Off

If you'd rather save some of your hard-earned cash for other necessities, try these Joe Boxer lace thongs, just $4.99 through 6/13 at Kmart.com. These sassy underthings come highly recommended by reader Nikki (read her entertaining testimonial here). Thanks, Nikki!

Would you splurge on the designer brand or save with Kmart?

The Look for Less: Juicy Couture Fringe Bag



Juicy Couture at ShopStyle


Long fringe wraps around this Juicy Couture "Fringe Babydoll" Hobo, making it a unique accessory albeit an expensive one for something that's most likely a passing trend. (It's $378 at Nordstrom.)



Forever 21 at ShopStyle


If you're just looking for something with a similar "boho" feel, scoop up Forever 21's "Andie" Velvet Tote. On sale now for $17.99, it's an affordable, guilt-free option that will give you your fringe fix for less.