I've gotten a couple requests from moms with small children for specific outfit ideas that will keep them looking put together without spending a lot. The challenge? Find clothes that are easy to move around in, easy to keep clean, easy to mix-and-match, appropriate for hot, humid summer weather, figure-flattering and of course, budget-friendly! The solution? 5 outfit ideas that feature a largely neutral color palette, trendy treats from fast-fashion chains, and comfortable shoes that can go the distance. These outfit ideas are meant to inspire, so look for similar items at your favorite stores and be sure to stamp them with your personal touch. And even if you're not a mom, these looks should work for any busy, budget-conscious gal. Which looks would you wear?

Summer Style: Mom on the Go Look #1 by The Budget Babe featuring Forever21

Last spring's Alexander McQueen collection included this resplendent chiffon dress featuring a rainbow-colored feather print...


...which is the first thing I thought of when I saw this Feather Print Chiffon Maxi Dress, currently for sale at Forever21.com for $27.80. It's not a copy by any means, but the colors and sweeping floor length skirt conjure up a similar mood. It's also part of the new Love 21 line (misses sizing and more modest cuts), which I have yet to see in person. Unfortunately none of the stores I've been to so far have it in stock so I guess I'll have to order online. Has anyone else tried Love 21 yet?

I finally checked out what was left of the Matthew Williamson for H&M collection at the store on Fifth Avenue at 42nd St in NYC, and in all fairness, there wasn't very much to review. But I think I got an adequate taste of the collection's summery, world-traveler, exotic get-a-way vibe, as well as a sense of the quality (on par with the rest of H&M's "nicer" things) and the prices (steep). The only thing I really wanted was a wildly colored bag but I couldn't fathom spending $95 odd dollars on a canvas duffle from H&M, Matthew Williamson or not. Did anyone scoop up some goodies from this collection? What did you think of it?

MORE PHOTOS AFTER THE JUMP

Pucci-esque chiffon kaftan. Love the print. No place to wear it.

detail of the kaftan

Ok, I'll admit I felt kinda glamorous when I tried it on...

Last night, I attended a blogger event at the Times Square Ann Taylor LOFT location in New York City where I was invited to meet the creative team behind the company and ask them any question my heart desired about the company and their products. Everyone I met was extremely friendly and gracious, but more than that, I could feel their excitement and enthusiasm for the brand—when employees believe in the company, the customer can, too!

Here are some of the take-aways I got from the event that I thought you ladies would find useful—if you have any questions, hit me up in the comments and I'll do my best to answer them (or get the answers from the folks over at LOFT—they're more than eager to help!).

What You Should Know About Ann Taylor LOFT

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?


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!


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.


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?