The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Off the Rack: August Highlights at H&M




A recent trip to one of H&M's Manhattan locations got me super pumped for fall. There's a strong throwback vibe to the 1960's with bow tie blouses, camel, wide trousers, retro prints and feminine shapes as well as a funky mod sheaths, bowler hats and pleated midi-skirts. The faux fur was in full force as were early fall accessories like structured handbags, scarves and lace-up booties. I was loving the combinations of orange and pink, a big color trend for fall 2011, the continuation of stripes, blazers and wedge heels (those taupe wedge pumps are so Middleton-sisters). Take a close look at my photos, there's so much to take in! What are you most excited for?

Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohl's Fall 2011 Lookbook




The Simply Very Vera Wang for Kohl's fall 2011 look book is out, featuring 31 looks marked by graphic prints, rich textures and lots of layering. It's classic Simply Vera (we can say that now that the collection has been going strong since 2007): The tunics, the leggings (less than last season, thank goodness), the layers. And this season, we find these chic basics updated with modern elements of fur, chiffon, tulle and organza. In the past we've complained that the models do not mirror the customer but I guess the look book is styled for art's sake. Note that many of these looks are available in both petite and plus sizes. I didn't include detailed info on each item because there are so many pieces but leave a comment if you have any questions. Most items are available in September and range from $40 for a chiffon tank, $68 for a fur vest to $109 for sleek riding boots. I love the shoes - all of them!

Browse dozens more looks after the jump. How do you feel about this season's collection?

Off the Rack: Summer Clearance Shoes at Target




Earlier this week I dropped by Target hoping to find new shoes for fall, but instead, the shoe aisle was practically barren, with just a handful of summer clearance styles left. According to Twitter, some of you have found these styles for as low as $6.24 but at my store, clearance shoes were marked down to $12.48 at best. Frankly I was disappointed but at the same time, I wasn't smitten with anything in particular so I left empty-handed. Please tell me you fared better? Which summer clearance styles did you scoop up?

Jennifer Lopez for Kohl's Fall 2011 Lookbook




Kohl's just shared the entire Jennifer Lopez collection fall 2011 look book, featuring 26 ultra-femme ensembles inspired by Old Hollywood and models that were made to look a lot like J. Lo herself. The styling is questionable (hello, giant eagle statue) but, say it with me: If you look at the individual pieces, there's definite potential. I'm loving the wrap dresses and tweed puff-sleeve tunic. My favorite look seems dance-inspired, with an embellished pale pink tee tucked into a full black skirt. All in all, I'm excited to check it out in person in Kohl's stores nationwide and on www.kohls.com on September 7th.

Many more images after the jump - what do you think?