The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Anna Sui's Gossip Girl–Inspired Target Collection


Anna Sui's Gossip Girl–Inspired Target Collection look book photos

The Cut leaked photos of Anna Sui's Target line waaay back on Friday (eons ago in the fashion world, but with MJ's death I was a tad preoccupied), so in case you missed it, here are 19 looks inspired by characters Blair, Vanessa, Jenny and Serena. Even if you already saw these beauties, let me know what you think in the comments—I'm dying to hear! As for me, I have one word: LOVE. With the exception of looks 10 and 11, I am enamored with all the possibility that this collection holds. Some people are criticizing the looks, saying they aren't true to the Gossip Girl characters, but frankly, I'm kinda glad they're merely referencing the teen drama and don't fall into the realm of costume. Besides, "inspired by" means just that. It's a springboard for ideas, not meant to be taken too literally. Diehard GG fans may disagree. Another plus for me is that Anna Sui's high-end design aesthetic really comes through, which is always something I look for with these mass collabs. Overall, this collection looks far more promising than the nonsense we got from Sui's Designer Collaboration predecessor, Alexander McQueen. Then again, I loved the McQ look book but didn't care for the end result. Fingers crossed for Sui.

The Anna Sui for Target line will be available in 250 select stores and Target.com September 13 through October 17.

Keep reading to see all the looks (in no particular order)...



Anna Sui's Gossip Girl–Inspired Target Collection look book photos

Off the Rack: Dana Buchman for Kohl's

Off the Rack: Dana Buchman for Kohl's
ZEBRA PRINT: The collar says classy, the signature animal print says sassy.

The new-ish Dana Buchman for Kohl's collection has been in stores for a few months, so I thought now would be a good time to weigh in on what we're seeing for summer. Overall, I'm impressed with the line because it offers solid options for budget shoppers, especially the mature fashionista. It has all the underpinnings of "designer" clothing, that is, classic and conservative cuts in a sophisticated color palette and artfully designed prints. It hints at global travels and smacks of resort-wear. (Think Tory Burch if you're not familiar with Buchman's design aesthetic.) In terms of sizing, I was surprised to see this line stop at 16. Prices could always be lower, but everything always goes on sale at Kohl's and nothing I saw topped $100. Even if the vibe isn't your thing, I'd say give it look next time you're at Kohl's and see if there's something like a tunic or pretty skirt that you can work into your own wardrobe.

Have you checked out this collection? What did you think?

(Click through the pages for lots more pics!)

Finding the Perfect Swimsuit for Your Style Personality

Whilst working on a post about the best bathing suits for every figure, I got sidetracked over at the newly launched shopping website Covet.com, which has a highly addictive "what's-your-style-personality" quiz dealio. (I'm a Sporty Minimalist with Sporty Glam and Sporty Modern influences. Freakish how well they know me!) Which got me thinking: Instead of finding a swimsuit that fits your figure, why not find one that fits your style persona, too? The answer: A round-up of 7 swimsuits that'll match your mood and flatter your tush.


Modern Glam: Norma Kamali's one-shoulder maillot has clean, contemporary lines, but make no mistake—that one shoulder strap screams seaside siren. A fabulous steal for just $20 at Walmart.com.