The Lanvin Oxford Ankle Bootie is a gorgeous shoe for fall featuring gray flannel, black patent leather and lace-up closure. It sells for $1,195 at Bergdorf Goodman.


While the quality of these "Newbury" lace-up Oxford pumps by Alloy probably pales in comparison to the Lanvins, they're a great way to get in on this trend for less. Wear these sophisticated, menswear-inspired heels for day or night with wide leg pants or with opaque tights and a beautiful dress. The price: Just $29.90.

The Budget Babe's resident product-tester-extraordinaire Kiki Bella (an alias) reviews some seriously smart skincare solutions. —BB



by Kiki Bella
Recently I was asked to review some products by a line known as Smart Girls Who Surf. Smart Girls Who Surf makes products that relate primarily to protection from the damaging rays of the sun, in addition to some soaps and other cute accessories. I am a smart girl but I don't surf, so how could these products apply to me? Well, for starters this company gets top marks right off the bat for being into protecting our planet, its waters and its people by making products that aren't full of icky chemicals. Some are even organic (major points there). The truth of the matter is that these products are awesome for any smart girl who finds herself doing anything in the sun. The products are fantastic, and I really am hooked on them.

In order to properly test these products out myself I took the Smart Girls Who Surf Grab-N-Go Kit ($24.99) on vacation with me diamond prospecting (yes, you read correctly—I spent one week in the middle of Arkansas in a 115 degree volcanic crater digging for diamonds—its hard work, and my boyfriend almost left me a few times, but I loved every second of it!). (continued below)