The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Under $50: Black & White Tribal Prints




The tribal trend has been a huge hit this summer thanks in large part to Louis Vuitton, and while I've been loving it on other people (like this dress on Budget Chic), I haven't really figured out how to incorporate these bold, colorful prints into my own wardrobe. But lately I've noticed an emerging trend in graphic black and white tribal prints that are calling my name. The neutral color-combo is something I can wrap my head around and easily make my own by pairing an ikat-print pencil skirt with a bright yellow tank or tee, to name just one option. If you're feeling the tribal trend, here's a round-up of some pieces that won't break the bank.

Browse these and other tribal prints below...

Here Today, Gone Tomorrow: Forever 21 Boyfriend Blazer



Forever 21 at ShopStyle


Forever 21 has finally stocked a new boyfriend blazer ($27.80), a layering piece which has become an absolute wardrobe essential. This trend is sure to carry through the fall because bf blazers are utterly practical and super stylish, adding structure to girly dresses or dressing up a basic top and jeans. This blazer won't last long (size small is already sold out) so if you're looking for a boyfriend blazer on the cheap, scoop it up before it's gone by clicking on the image above.

Ask BB: Genuine Leather Bomber Under $200

Real leather bomber jacket on the cheapDo you know where I can find a nice biker/bomber leather jacket without breaking the bank? I don't like the feel of faux leather and my dermatologist recommends I wear breathable materials. —Silvia

Fall may be weeks away, but I've already received two requests for affordable, real-leather bomber jackets, so when I saw this ASOS leather bomber jacket featured in a WhoWhatWear.com newsletter, I knew I had to share. If black isn't your color, get this jacket in tan for $92 or khaki for just $74. I love the curved seams and clean lines. Anyways, it's tough to find a real leather jacket under $200 that looks up-to-date yet timeless, so when you do find that rare gem, snag it fast.

Shop it: ASOS Premium Curved Seam Leather Bomber, $156.32, asos.com

Neon Under $50 (Should I Even Go There?)




I've managed to resist the neon glare that's been going on in the fashion world for months now, but a few factors are beginning to wear me down: 1) Cupcakes & Cashmere makes neon nail polish look irresistible, 2) Target has an entire collection of neon rubber bracelets and plastic earrings that are a blast from my past and oddly tempting (couldn't find them online, but look for them in stores), and finally, 3) Real Style Real People's theory of fashion desensitization, which states the longer you're exposed to a fashion trend—no matter how heinous—the more likely you are to succumb to wearing it!

Slap me back into reality…or tell me you aren't starting to like a little touch of neon, too?

Ask BB: Cami-Bra Basics

I would like to wear a camisole but not a bra and camisole. A camisole with a bra attached would be good, but where do I buy one? What do you suggest I do? —Meena

Sounds like you're ready to test-drive a cami-bra, a modern marvel that fuses brassiere with camisole. Some of these so-called cami-bras have built-in shelf bras, which may or may not provide the support and coverage you need. Other cami-bras feature lightly padded, molded cups and/or underwire which provide full support and render a separate bra unnecessary.

Look for cami-bras in the lingerie department of your favorite store—Macy's, Kohls, Target, etc. Other great stores to check out include Nordstrom—their bra-fit-experts can help you find a supportive camisole, and the service is complimentary. If you have a larger bust, Panache makes a popular cami-bra in sizes up to a G cup (available at BareNecessities.com). Banana Repubic makes some of the best camis that you can layer for work; Victoria's Secret offers one of the widest selections of cami-bras from basic white and black to pretty bra-tops with ruffle-details.

I've had luck with the cami-bras from Gap, Express and Target. Experiment until you find one that works for you—the reward will be a lighter, more comfortable way to layer, especially during the hot summer months.

Are you a fan of the cami-bra or do you prefer to layer a regular camisole over a bra?