The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: What to Wear to a Beach Themed Party




I've been invited to a "Boat & Beach" themed college party where girls are supposed to wear bikinis. I'm not too confident or comfortable prancing around in a barely there outfit. What is something that is both stylish and a little sexy that I could wear?

Take inspiration from Jessica Stroup's sailor-shorts-and-halter-top look which she recently wore to an LA party. It's an adorable outfit with a nautical vibe that shows some skin but not too much. Here are some affordable pieces to help you put it all together:

What to Wear: New York City in May

I am headed to New York City for a 4 day, girls-only trip near the end of May. I was hoping you could help put together some practical, yet stylish, outfits for touring the city as well as something to go out for dinner in. I am on a low budget and in dire need of fashion advice! I love the effortlessly stylish looks you've put together in the past. If you could help, that'd be amazing! Thanks!!!! —J

Springtime in New York City is beautiful. May temps go into the 70s, a little cooler in the evenings, but it's always a good idea to dress in layers since weather is predictably unpredictable. Wear comfortable shoes so you can do lots of walking and pack light so you can do lots of shopping! Bring things you can wear more than once and accessories that do double duty (like the adorable metallic cross-body bag I found, you'll see it below!)

Here are three outfit ideas featuring items under $100 (most are much less) to help you enjoy your NYC vacation in style & comfort:

Ask BB: What to Wear for College Graduation

On May 8th I will be graduating from college! However, I don't know exactly what to wear… I don't wish to wear white, because my black graduation robes are quite boring! I'm hoping to wear a springy dress, I just don't know what sort of outfit would be appropriate! —Brooke

I think a college graduation calls for a fun yet somewhat formal dress or skirt and blouse combo, and dressy heels or wedges. It's not a fashion show and it's not a prom, so you don't want to wear something too flashy or revealing. It's a family event too and you'll probably go out to eat with family and friends afterward so think about what will make you feel comfortable yet stylish.

Ask BB: What to Wear to the Coachella Music Festival

Celebrity style at the Coachella Music Festival.


I'm going to Coachella Music Festival for the first time and I was just wondering what I should wear, what kind of bag I should bring and most importantly what kind of shoes since I will be on my feet all day. They say it gets really hot during the day and really cool at night. And from what I hear Coachella is very trendy hipster so I want to look good but not spend alot and please keep in mind that I'm on a college student budget aka a starving student. jk only when the food doesn't look good. Thanks For Your Help, Desiree

The Coachella Music Festival in Indio, California, attracts a style-conscious crowd of free-spirited music lovers and celebrities alike. Whether you want to blend in or stand out, consider lightweight breathable natural fibers, comfortable shoes and lots of sunscreen. I've never been but I read it gets cold at night (as you mentioned) so bring a cardigan or denim jacket to cover up when the sun goes down. In terms of sticking to your budget, you can find tons of indie-hipster options for cheap at stores like Target, Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters.

Here are three outfit formulas I put together to help you get inspired!