The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Carlos Miele Spring Summer 2011 Runway Show


Earlier I posted video that I shot of the Carlos Miele Spring Summer 2011 runway show, now here are some still photos and the show notes, which give some insight into the Brazilian native's inspiration, namely, butterflies and Pink Floyd. What they have in common is no boundaries, a concept that translates into upbeat, energetic fashion. Highlights included a butterfly print silk charmeuse short dress with nude heels and stunning jewelry by Ivanka Trump (bling, bling!); wearable pieces like off-white crepe cargo pants with a white t-shirt and embroidered vest; aspirational gowns like a royal blue silk chiffon dress with chain applique.

I'd like to see Miele push the envelope even more; his choice of live music sung by Brazilian pop-singer Bibel Giberto was a step in the right direction even if the entire show didn't quite coalesce. The black evening gowns at the end seemed anticlimactic although they were still stunning (they reminded me of the cover art from my Dark Side of the Moon album, another Pink Flloyd reference?) . The vivid reds, blues and lime greens are what I will hold onto.

See if you can spot reality TV star Olivia Palermo sitting front row in one of my photos, after the jump! It's like Where's Waldo.

Monique Lhuillier Spring Summer 2011 Runway Show


On September 13, I attended the Monique Lhuillier Spring Summer 2011 runway show at Lincoln Center during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Inspired by a dream she had of a modern-day Garden of Eden, Lhuillier created a sartorial garden of cocktail dresses and gorgeous floor-length gowns rendered in a feminine palette of soft blues, greens, pinks, and whites which were punctuated by breathtaking apple red pieces. Subtle reptile print chiffons and floral brocades continued the garden theme as did gold paillettes and embroidery that looked like shimmering dew. Naturally I loved the ball gowns which were chic, romantic and fanciful, perfect for the red carpet (not that I have any red carpets to dress up for, but it's fun to dream). Celebrities in attendance included Alexis Bledel, Emma Roberts and Olivia Palermo. The crowd collaboratively swooned and clapped in approval when the show ended.

Click through for more photos.

Tracy Reese Spring Summer 2011 Runway Show


Last time I attended Fashion Week to see the Fall 2010 collections I was turned away at the doors of Tracy Reese (I had an invite but the venue reached capacity before all guests could be allowed inside), so this time around, I was not going to miss it! And thankfully, I got in and took my place at the back in the standing area. Didn't have the best view but I was grateful to be there, just the same. I love Tracy Reese because her clothes are whimsical, youthful, colorful and wearable, and if you find her stuff on sale or sites like Gilt.com, the prices are not entirely out of reach.

The show notes read: "Clean, classic, mellow, groovy! For Spring 2011, Tracy Reese is inspired by the dream of glamorous travel and immersing one's self in a new and exotic location." Reese referenced the '70s with updated retro looks from tie neck blouses, poncho and Bermuda shorts, to high-waist trousers, earthy hues, mixed prints, and round-frame glasses every cool girl is going to want to wear. I loved most of the dresses but favorite looks included an army blue henley and cuffed shorts with layered chain necklaces and a floral shirtdress. Shoes were from Highline United for Tracy Reese, manicures by Sally Hansen and hair by Jeanie Syfu for TRESemme.

Click through to see more pics from the show.

Spot the Real: Joie "Refugee" Lace-Up Military Boots

Boots with a utilitarian or military-feel are huge for fall, and Joie's "Refugee" Lace-Up Military Boots are a perfect example. Can you spot them below? They'll set you back $535 while the look-a-like pair will cost you a mere $200 (I'm joking, they're both crazy expensive but if they're the only shoes you buy all season, you'll still have money left over for rent.) Take a guess, the click either image to find out which is which.



Joie at ShopStyle





Steve Madden at ShopStyle