Judging by the number of requests I've gotten for cheap military jackets this season, I have a feeling these two new-ish numbers at Forever21.com won't last long. Wear your military jacket to work with a nice blouse and dark trouser jeans; on a hot date with a girly dress and ankle boots; or to run errands with boots, jeans and a tee. The possibilities are endless!

The Budget Babe's resident beauty expert Kiki Bella (an alias) gives us more must-have makeup options for Fall that won't break the bank. —BB



by Kiki Bella
Love high-end beauty brands but can't afford to keep up with high prices in today's economy? Head over to Target (our favorite place, like, ever) to pick up some awesome makeup from Sonia Kashuk. Pardon the long post, but there are so many note worthy products to mention it would be a shame to leave any out.

I am really, really picky when it comes to any kind of lipgloss. I have tried it all, and there is nothing grosser then a bad quality cheap-o lipgloss that some big chain is trying to pass off as designer (you know the kind, kinda stinky, really gluey and looks like you slathered on Vaseline and then dipped your lips in a garishly hued pot of glitter.) I shudder at the thought.

Sonia Kashuk for Target Ultra Shine Sheer Lip Gloss

These products are not even close to that. They are in fact at the other far end of the lipgloss spectrum. The Sonia Kashuk Ultra Shine Sheer Lip Glosses ($8.99) are soft and creamy, melty and gorgeous. They come in beautiful lady-like colors and in lovely packaging. They smell delish, and they are the perfect finish to a face sporting the latest fall colors on eyes. I tried Whisper and Flawless and they are both great colors that will compliment many skin tones and many different looks. (cont. below)

Balmain whips up a sequin mini skirt, and now these shiny bottoms are everywhere! If you have a budget like Beyonce, pick up the Balmain number shown here for $7,665 at Kirna Zabete.


If you simply have the same rock-star fashion sense as the aforementioned diva, try Free People's sequin stretch skirt instead for $58 (wait for a sale). I love how they've styled it with a simple white tank, long chain necklace and knee-high suede boots. In certain ultra-creative work environs, you could add a blazer and get away with this look for day.