The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

How to Wear Colored Denim: 6 Blogger Tips




If you've got the denim blues - ya know, you're sick and tired of wearing the same blue jeans over and over again - reach for your brightly colored jeans. Not only will they ward off that unwelcome bout of Seasonal Affective Disorder, they will also provide you with countless new outfit options. For inspiration, I turned to some of my favorite fashion bloggers. Here, six tips on how to wear colored denim right:

1. Juxtapose a proper plaid blazer with purple denim for a look that's unexpected and all kinds of wonderful (via ...love Maegan)

2. Mix muted camel (a cableknit sweater works especially well) with red denim and touches of leopard print for the perfect casual fall ensemble. (via Chic on the Cheap)

3. Leopard print jeans feel so right in winter combined with a sleek black top and capelet coat. (via Keiko Lynn)

4. Pair a vibrant jean with an equally bright shot of color on top. Red and fuchsia are a match made in colorblock heaven. (via Nany's Klozet)

5. Brights and neutrals look surprisingly sophisticated and totally eye-catching at the same time. (via Wendy's Lookbook)

6. Layer textured knits in muted tones for a cozy-chic colored denim look. Finish with a bright scarf in a coordinating hue. (via eat.sleep.wear)

Lunch Hour Shopping: Giambattista Valli for Macy's Impulse Clearance




I shouldn't be telling you this as I have yet to shop for myself, but the Giambattista Valli for Macy's Impulse collection is making its final curtain call and is now on clearance. Quantities and sizes are limited, so shop soon as I'm not sure how long these pieces will be around. Designer collabs seem to come and go so quickly these days, it's hard to keep track of what's in stores when. I've seen most pieces from the collection in person and the quality is fabulous for the price. I especially like the strapless maxi dress - it would look amazing topped with a tuxedo blazer for a fancy holiday party. Don't delay, shop what's left of the Giambattista Valli collection ASAP online or check the the clearance racks at your local Macy's store.

Shown above from left: Jersey Dress, $48.74 (down from $99); Animal Print Top, $22.99 (down from $49); Convertible Clutch, $44.99 (down from $69.00)

8 Under $30: Holiday Gifts at Francesca's Collections




The countdown to Christmas is underway, and if you're still looking for that perfect gift (raises hand), head to Francesca's Collections. Our friends at the affordable fashion boutique just launched a handy new mobile site and they've shared another exclusive coupon code for BB readers. Hooray! I had no idea Francesca's carried so many adorable gifts, like a Day of the Dead lunch bag or Kiss Me Coupon Book - unique, stylish, sometimes quirky and sure to put a smile on your friends' faces.

Keep reading for 8 great gift ideas under $30, and be sure to use code FORTUNE at checkout for 30% off a single regular priced item (online only, cannot be combined with other discounts. Expires 12/31/11).

Win Cool Stuff: $50 Marshalls/TJ Maxx Gift Card

UPDATE: And the winners are… #84 Stephani and #109 Julia! Congrats to our winners and thanks to everyone who participated.




Please note: This giveaway has ended and is now closed to further entries.

Yesterday I wrote a post about some of the amazing holiday gifts under $50 you can find at TJ Maxx and Marshalls, and today I'm giving away two $50 gift cards to spread the love. Each gift card is good at any TJ Maxx or Marshalls store, where you'll find amazing brand name gifts for everyone on your list, at up to 60% off department and mall store prices.

To enter:
Tell me about your latest TJ Maxx or Marshalls purchase in the comments section below (or another great bargain you've scored elsewhere if you don't shop at either store).

Do any/all of the following for one additional entry each (leave a comment for each please):


  • Follow @budgetbabe on Twitter and tweet this post using the Twitter button below.

  • "Like" this post using the Facebook button below.


Good luck!!

Entries must be posted by 12 noon December 13, 2012, to be eligible to win. Two lucky winners will each receive one (1) gift card valued at $50. The decision to host this giveaway was entirely my own and as mentioned yesterday, I received a $50 giftcard from TJ Maxx/Marshalls in conjunction with this post. Open to US and Canadian readers (hey if you're willing to cross the border to shop that's cool!)