The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: New Year's Eve Party Looks for Cold Climes

Do you have any suggestions for NYE outfits for the girls in the frigid Midwest??? —Tweet from @M_Schraiber



I grew up in Chicago and now call Connecticut home, so I know cold! I'm all about layers, boots, cashmere and a few shiny things (sequins, bling, nail polish or makeup) to dress up a look. Here are 11 stylish ways to help you winterize your New Year's Eve party look so you can look hot without freezing.


{Shown above: Celebs stay stylish even when the temperatures drop.}


Ask BB: Chrissy Lampkin's Gold Leaf Earrings

I am writing to see if you know the name of Chrissy Lampkin's gold leaf earrings off the "Love & Hip Hop" show. They are so cute! Or even something similar? I hope you can help! —Melannie W.





Chrissy's bold yet delicate earrings seem to be made from natural leaves dipped in gold. I found a bunch of similar styles on etsy.com, including these gold oak leaf earrings for $21 (plus shipping).



You might also find this look for less on eBay.com.

If you know the exact designer, let us know in the comments!

Easy DIY: How to Make A Glitter Striped Tee

Here's how to make your own glitter striped t-shirt, just like the one I made for my Jane by Design blogger challenge (here).

Supplies:

  • T-shirt (long or short sleeve, any color!)

  • Fabric glue (I used Tulip brand "Fashion Glitter Bond"

  • Craft sponges (I used the white, angled kind)

  • Glitter (I used silver Tulip "Fashion Glitter" but I'm sure other glitter would work, too)

  • Masking tape (I used 1 3/4 inch wide tape)



Step one: Start with a clean, freshly laundered t-shirt. Slip some wax paper inside the shirt and smooth flat so that the front of the shirt doesn't get stuck to the back when you start gluing. (I actually used some plastic drawer liner because I didn't have any wax paper around).






Step 2: Using masking tape, start masking off the stripes. You can make as few or as many stripes as you'd like, thick or thick, uniform or varying widths. I just eye-balled it, no patience for measuring.




Step 3: Beginning with the top row or "stripe", squeeze some of your glue and spread it evenly using the little applicator sponge. Make sure you get good, even coverage, but don't put too much. You have to work kinda quickly so the glue doesn't seep into the t-shirt and/or dry before you sprinkle on the glitter.




Step 4: Generously sprinkle your glitter onto the glue. I worked one row at a time. Towards the end, I lifted the tee from the top and actually gently shook the excess glue downwards to cover the remaining gluey stripes.




Step 5: Allow your glue to dry at least 2 hours. Then, carefully peel off the tape to reveal your gorgeous, glittery stripes!




Tips: You may want to spray your t-shirt with sealer or hair spray to minimize glitter loss, then wash separately the first time.

Download the free Jo-Ann app on iTunes to get instant money-saving coupons (I got 40% off any single regular priced item). Just show your phone at the cash register. Also, Jo-Ann and Michael's will usually honor competitor's coupons.

Ask BB: White After Labor Day

Is it okay to wear a white cocktail dress after Labor day? —Amy

Signs point to yes! For some styling inspiration, here are three celebrities that I've spotted wearing white cocktail dresses post Labor Day:


  • Whitney Port's luxe satin blazer and embellished platforms give her cocktail dress a festive, holiday feel.
  • A black blazer and black pumps give Kristin Cavallari's white cocktail dress an instant fall makeover.
  • Leopard booties add edge to Ashley Tisdale's wintery white long-sleeve lace dress.

What do you think, would you wear a white dress after Labor Day or opt for something else?

Ask BB: Rachel Zoe Link Necklace Look for Less

I've been looking for a bold chain link necklace in silver or gold for a long time and I just can't seem to find one in my price range. Rachel Zoe sells a fabulous one on QVC (picture below) but can you help me find one under $50? —Ashley





The online accessories boutique Mimi's The Look for Less has a chunky chain link necklace that fits your budget at $48, and you can take your pick of gold or silver. Click here to view or purchase.



I found another beautiful option at Mango but it's a bit more, costing $59.90 (plus shipping). If you click the image below, you can see how this necklace looks on a model.