The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: Wedding Guest Style on a Budget

I have multiple weddings to go to this spring, summer, and fall. Can you help me find a dress that I can accessorize easily to change it from season to season and wear to the weddings without feeling like I'm wearing the same dress every weekend? —Kelly

Thankfully People StyleWatch recently did a feature on this exact subject so I used it as inspiration for this post (it's in the May 2010 issue, p.82). Basically, they recommend taking a strapless metallic dress in a solid color that's flattering on most body types and can be easily dressed up or down for various occasions. Since we're approaching the summer wedding season, here are 3 ways to wear one party dress for a garden, city or beach wedding. Come fall or winter, just add a coat, shrug or black tights to the same dress and you're ready to go! Well worth the investment if you find the perfect fit. Keep reading to see all 3 options and click on any item for shopping details!

OPTION 1: GARDEN WEDDING
Grass-friendly wedges and a colorful statement necklace give this dress a garden-wedding makeover.



OPTION 2: CITY
Black accessories and a big cocktail ring lend city sophistication to the dress.



OPTION 3: BEACH
Embellished flats and chandelier earrings are glam but still laid-back.

Ask BB: What to Wear on a First Date


After getting out of a 3+ year abusive relationship a few months ago—and after lots of therapy—I am finally ready to get back on the horse and try dating again. However, I realized I need some cute outfit ideas from YOU! What do you wear on a first date? For example, drinks and dinner, [or] out to a movie/park? —S

First of all, I'm honored you would ask for my help. It sounds like you've been through a lot and you're ready to move on, and I sincerely applaud you for your courage and strength. When it comes to first date outfits, my advice would be to wear what makes you feel comfortable, beautiful and confident. Everyone wants to make a good impression on a first date, but it's important to just stay true to yourself. Keep it classy and don't forget to wear your best accessory: A smile!

OK, now that I got the motivational speech out of the way, here are three outfit ideas to help you get started—click on any image for details!

3 Ways to Wear: Cargo Capri Pants


Cargo pants always make a comeback in the summer for their comfort, rugged good looks and wardrobe versatility. This season's preferred silhouette is a bit slimmer, with fewer bulky pockets, in fabrics and colors that can be more easily dressed up or down (think easy-care cotton poplin and cool gray-greens.)

Take a moment to think of some ways you might style the pair of cargo capris shown here ($24.80 at forever21.com). White tee and gladiators? Black tank and heels? Great ideas! OK, now keep reading to see 3 more ways to wear these babies, all outfit ideas featuring affordable items under $60.

Ask BB: How to Wear Spring's Nautical Trend




I love the "nautical" look but am having a hard time putting outfits together. Any suggestions? —Sara

Shopbop.com's amazing spring lookbook will give you some inspiration for getting the nautical trend right this season. The key ingredients? Sailor stripes, colors like red, navy, white and gold, plus maritime motifs such as rope, anchors, stars and chains.

Of course, Shopbop can be a pricey place to shop, but the idea is to get inspired then find affordable ways to make their looks your own. Keep reading to see 3 outfits I put together that reference the Shopbop lookbook without copying it piece for piece (although that's always a good option, too!):