The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Spot the Splurge: Ribbon Chain Bracelets

Spot the Splurge: Ribbon Chain Bracelets

At once edgy and sweet, these ribbon chain bracelets will add a touch of effortless style to any look. See if you can guess which of these pieces boasts the highest pricetag. I think it's worth the splurge since it's currently on sale and I love everything this jewelry designer creates—but all four are fab options in my book!

The Look for Less: Juicy Couture Military Hat



Juicy Couture at ShopStyle


In step with one of fall's top trends, this military style hat by Juicy Couture originally sold for $55 at Bloomingdales.com.



Aldo at ShopStyle


The Juicy hat shown at the top of the post is sold out, but you can still get the look with this hat from Aldo, available in either gray or black for just $15. Click the image to purchase.

Relief for Dry Winter Skin: What's Your Routine?





Neutrogena's Extra Gentle Cleanser leaves skin feeling soft and moist, rather than tight and dry.

A couple days ago I found myself watching AccentHealth Waiting Room TV at my doctor's office (just in for a routine check-up), and they did an interesting segment on finding relief for dry winter skin, so I took some notes to share with all of you. Might as well make the most out of a boring situation, right?

First, the common causes of dry skin:

  • Exposure to hot or cold dry air

  • Heating and/or air conditioning

  • Long, hot showers

  • Improper use of moisturizers






Jergens Natural Glow facial moisturizer glides on smooth and gradually gives skin a touch of non-streaky color, much like a light coat of foundation.

Simple tips for dry skin relief:

  • Apply moisturizer to damp skin, right after you shower.

  • Avoid antibacterial or deodorant soap

  • Drinking water, while vital for good health, does not relieve dry skin.

  • Use a mild cleanser applied gently with the pads of your fingers. Splash skin to rinse and pat dry. I use Neutrogena Extra Gentle Cleanser in the winter because it's non-comedogenic (like Cetaphil), fragrance free, and won't leave a filmy residue on your skin.

  • Use an oil-free moisturizer for your face. I've been using Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer and I love it. I bought it back in August for our summer vacay to Quebec and have been using it ever since. I use it in addition to the Kiss My Face Olive/Aloe Natural Moisturizer that I wrote about here.

  • Wear sunscreen daily. The Jergens moisturizer contains SPF protection, so I'm covered.



How do YOU cope with dry winter skin?

Ask BB: Thoughts on Pierced Ears and Style

First Lady Michelle Obama often incorporates classic pearl studs into her wardrobe for day, while opting for opulent statement earrings for evening.

I've been considering piercing my ears for a while, but I'm worried that I'll be allergic/get an infection/etc. I was just wondering if you had any thoughts on how much earrings contribute to an outfit or someone's style. For example, I notice that with many of my fashion idols, like say Alexa Chung or the Olsen twins, or models in photoshoots, they usually don't wear earrings. Is there a particular reason for this, or a general rule as to when/how one should wear earrings? —Connie

Wow, what a great question. I could easily write a book on this topic! Well, not really, but my point is that this is a very thought-provoking question. The simplest answer I can give is that one's approach to wearing certain types of jewelry, such as earrings, may historically have depended on many social and cultural factors, but today's woman can choose to do whatever she wants. No rules.

Off the Rack: Rodarte for Target


Rodarte for Target

This weekend I finally got to see the Rodarte for Target collection, which launched with much fanfare at the end of December.

Many of you felt underwhelmed by the collection and questioned the underwear-as-outerwear theme that ran throughout.

I nonetheless approached the collection with an open mind and a fashion martyr's devotion. Here's how it went:


Rodarte for Target

Highlights included an assortment of tulle skirts, a lace screened tee, and a kimono floral-print raincoat. Chic and affordable.




Pieces I had expected to love, like the crepe lace slip dress ($39.99), too closely resembled lingerie and suffered from major static cling. Pass.


Rodarte for Target

Other pieces which I had expected to hate were surprisingly fabulous in person, like this leopard print lace dress ($44.99). In fact, it's the one piece I splurged on. I will probably wear it with opaque tights and flat boots during Fashion Week (er, if I get invited).


Rodarte for Target

Model types like Erin Wasson could make this sequin leopard print dress ($44.99) work, but I could never go out in public in this.


Rodarte for Target

Good concept, poorly executed.

Overall, I think the Rodarte collection was geared more towards the Tavis of the fashion world. (See the pintsize blogger looking absolutely brilliant in her Rodarte for Target dress here.) But I'm happy with my purchase, too. Let's just hope I can sit down in it…