The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

5 Under $50: Francesca's Collections

You know how sometimes you forget about a store, then revisit, and realize you want everything? Well, that's how I feel about Francesca's Collections (www.francescascollections.com), one of my longtime favorites for super stylish apparel, shoes and accessories, priced mostly under $50! Keep reading for 5 of my favorite finds for fall.

P.S. My friends at Francesca's recently emailed me to say "hi" (that was the reminder I needed to revisit their awesome site) and they offered to share an exclusive discount with you guys! Use code BUDGETBABE to get 30% off a single regular priced item (online only) good through 8/31/11.

1. Going Places Dress, $48
This dress reminds me of Tucker for Target with its casual, vintage feel. Add a cool belt, tights and boots for the perfect fall look.




Ask BB: Kate Spade Westward Adventurer Satchel Look for Less

Recently, I have become absolutely infatuated with the Emily & Meritt for Kate Spade Westward Adventurer Satchel (shown below). Even for such a great bag, $795 is more than a little steep. Any ideas for a cheaper, similar version? I love the idea of a bag this size for weekend journeys away/train traveling. —Maria



That's certainly a drool-worthy bag, but you're right, the pricetag is out of reach for many of us. But don't fret, I found an amazing alternative! Whenever I'm looking for a classic, timeless leather bag with a vintage feel, I think of the Fossil Vintage Reissue collection - it's Fossil's best styles from the past, reinvented for today. This weekender bag, for instance, captures many of the attributes you like from the Kate Spade Westward, for about $570 less. And because it's Fossil, you won't sacrifice quality. Click the image below for details, it's also available in camel, red and a gorgeous two-tone style.



Off the Rack: 'Your Art Here' T-Shirts at H&M, Plus A Giveaway




For the second year, H&M hosted its Your Art Here contest to help five aspiring artists get their work noticed. Over 2,200 amazing artworks were submitted to the Your Art Here contest from all over the world, then a panel of star judges (which included blogger Bryan Boy) selected the winners with input from fans. The five winning works of art were printed on T-shirts and are now available for purchase in H&M stores all over the United States. I spotted the tees at the H&M 5th Avenue store in New York City - really creative and a great initiative for artists. Find out more about the winners at www.yourarthere.com.

Win Cool Stuff:
H&M sent over two tees (size M and L) - drop a comment below by 12 noon ET on 8/23/11 and I'll pick one reader at random to ship them to. Good luck!

UPDATE: The giveaway has now ended and is closed to further entries. The winner is #4 Piper Alexander! Congrats and thanks to everyone who commented!