The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Off the Rack: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's March Highlights




On Friday, I scouted out the spring offerings from the LC Lauren Conrad collection at my local Kohl's, and once again, I found myself falling under LC's spell. With names like Coastal Bohemia, Shabby Chic and High Tea describing each set of looks, the LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's collection is unapologetically girly. Feminine details, florals and vintage-inspired styling create a casual ladylike look. The palette of nature-inspired shades like teal blues, sweet blushes, soft lemon yellows and earthy ivory felt effortless and easy-to-wear.

There were lots of lightweight cardigans, pretty blouses and skinny jeans that you could mix and match for everyday wear. Standouts for me included a crochet-trim blouse (sale $34.99), supersoft navy twill leggings (sale $24.99), and two of the most adorable dresses ever (sale $41.99 each). I just wanted to run through a field of tall grass with a red balloon or something, wearing those dresses. Like I said, I was under her spell. Then I snapped out of my reverie and left empty-handed. As much as I loved everything in the moment, I didn't particularly need anything. If I'm still pining for that dusty rose dress tomorrow, I'll go back for it.

Click through for more photos.

The Look for Less: Chan Luu Turquoise Wrap Bracelet

Chan Luu's turquoise and sterling silver bead bracelet is $210 at Net-a-porter.com.



During a trip to Kohl's this past Friday, I purchased this genuine turquoise wrap bracelet for just $20 (down from $60) - and I totally think it looks like Chan Luu. I couldn't find this item online but you'll find them in stores in the jewelry department. Make sure to get yours on sale, Kohl's has crazy markdowns so you never have to pay full price. Visit Kohls.com for store locations.




Off the Rack: Leather Wrap Bracelets, Stackable Rings at Target




An inexpensive way to update your spring look is with a few new pieces of jewelry, and Target has some amazing options under $20. Think layered wrap bracelets, a boho statement ring or a mod white watch. My heart skipped a beat when I saw the shiny assortment of new wrap bracelets at my local store, ranging in price from $14.99 to $18.99 each. Rather than being all-out edgy, the latest crop of bracelets are chic designer-inspired pieces that remind me of accessories by Burberry, Tory Burch and CC Skye. Other highlights included some delicate stackable rings and a charm necklace that looked a lot like Alex and Ani. If you're planning a trip to Target this weekend, stop by the jewelry section and let me know what you like.

Click through for more photos.

Shop Forever21.com Today to Help Japan


If you're feeling overwhelmed by the ongoing tragedy in Japan, there's something you can do to help right now:
Head on over to Forever21.com where 100% of every dollar you spend online today will go toward the earthquakes and tsunami relief efforts in Japan. Applies to purchases made on March 18th, 2011, between 12:01 a.m. and 11:59 p.m.

Or, text REDCROSS to 90999 to send $10 to relief efforts in Japan. Visit redcross.org for details.

Spring/Summer Fashion Trends with Kmart's Kathy Huynh


Yesterday I attended a lovely blogger brunch in New York City hosted by Kmart Fashion to preview the latest trends for spring/summer 2011. I finally got to meet the beautiful Kathy Huynh, VP of Women's Apparel Design for Kmart, who I had the pleasure of interviewing back in 2009 (click here to read). Above, you can check out the short video I shot to hear Kathy talk about the hottest trends at Kmart and to see some of her favorite pieces. She's a natural on camera and she's wearing a gorgeous Attention for Kmart dress (in stores soon!) Special thanks to Kmart for hosting such a fun event!