For a fun and flirty take on the LBD, Juicy Couture serves up a spaghetti strap dress with a skirt full of fluttering ruffles. It can be yours for $498 at Ssense.


If you love the look of the Juicy dress but don't have that kind of cash laying around, Lulu's has you covered: This Legacy One Shoulder Dress in Black by Ark & Co. features a one-shoulder strap (which I think gives it a more distinct look), cascading ruffle skirt and costs just $62.

One of my favorite, incredibly addictive fashion blogs called The Look 4 Less recently featured this blouse by Aqua (a relatively affordable clothing label carried by Bloomingdales) as a great budget-alternative to Alice + Olivia's "Bianca" ruffle blouse ($253). This fab Aqua blouse is on sale now for $57.80.


J's great find reminded me of another lovely blouse that I had seen at Target. This Xhilaration Cascade Blouse in Hardware Grey is another option to help you get this look on a budget, and it only costs $12.98 at Target.com. Pair it with white jeans and heels for a chic going-out look. DEAL ALERT: $5 Off Purchases of $50 or More at TARGET.com • Enter Code TC6543RT at Checkout • Ends 6/13

I recently visited a Marshalls Shoe Megashop location that was stocked with designer brands at amazing prices, including Michael Kors, Steve Madden, Etienne Aigner, Havaianas and Just Cavalli. Here are some photos I took of the goods to give you a sense of what you might find at a Marshalls near you. (I didn't buy any shoes on this trip, but I did a lot of damage in the CUBE—more on that to come!)

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

And the winner is… #44 Stephanie who wrote, "Even though I'm 26, I've been using SPF moisturizer since I was a kid, it really helps preventing age spots (I have natural freckles, even though I'm asian), in addition, when I'm older, I know that I'll be thankful that my mom instilled this habit at such a young age. While I know the sun can be bad, a nice glow every once in awhile (whether it's a quick walk at the beach or from a bottle), helps me feel younger and refreshed. But the 3 keys would have to be: SPF moisturizer, water, and a sleep!"

Congrats to our winner and thanks to everyone who participated! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go put on some sunscreen and drink a big glass of water.




Please note: This contest is now closed to further entries.

We've teamed up with Perricone MD, a leading producer of anti-aging skin care products, to offer one lucky winner a sample of their Advanced Face Firming Activator, which retails at $120! This hi-tech fountain of youth corrects imperfections for smooth, youthful, radiant skin with Alpha Lipoic Acid and DMAE. To enter, tell us what you do to stay looking and feeling young in the comments section below.

This contest is open to US residents only. Be sure to use a valid email address and include info(at)thebudgetbabe.com in your address book so we can contact you if you're the winner. Email addresses will not be shared and will only be used to notify you if you're the winner for this giveaway. Comments must be posted by 12 noon ET on Tuesday June 16 to be eligible to win. One lucky winner will be chosen at random, and will be announced on Wednesday June 17.