The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Jason Wu for Target: Full Lookbook




The complete Jason Wu for Target lookbook is out! As you know, Target is partnering with Jason Wu, celebrated New York-based designer, to introduce an affordable, limited-edition collection of women's apparel, handbags and scarves. Jason Wu for Target features a mix of modern, sophisticated pieces in bold hues and feminine prints. The designer collection is inspired by the vision of an American girl in Paris, bringing Wu's signature aesthetic and attention to detail to budget babes everywhere.

Ranging in price from $19.99 to $59.99 for apparel and $19.99 to $49.99 for handbags and scarves, Jason Wu for Target will be available Feb. 5 through March 6, 2012 at most Target stores and on Target.com.

Here's the apparel, I'll post the accessories in a separate post shortly to prevent browser overload. Mouse over any image for details and pricing.

UPDATE: Jason Wu for Target Handbags and Scarves

Macy's Spring 2012 RTW Lookbook


Here's something to add a little levity to your Monday: The Macy's Spring 2012 read-to-wear lookbook, featuring a sampling of some of the signature looks from affordable brands like INC International Concepts, Alfani, Bar III, Tommy Hilfiger, Style & Co., Rachel Rachel Roy, Charter Club and Ellen Tracy. Key trends to crave include asymmetric draped dresses, colored super slim pants, cool casual jackets, femme sweaters, flirty blouses, full fluid pants, full skirts, garden party dresses, graphic dresses, graphic t-shirts, prep toppers, statement shirts and tunics. There's literally something for everyone, and plenty of last season's trends are coming back which means updating your closet will be easy on the wallet. Not to mention each piece shown in this lookbook is under $200 (drop me a comment if you have a question about a particular piece). I think Rachel Roy's looks are my favorite and among the most directional, like the printed shorts and feminine tank top shown above. Her other look is the mixed floral print top and skirt, I think 2012 will be all about mixed prints especially for daring fashion bloggers. What do you think? Which pieces are catching your eye?

H&M Spring 2012 Lookbook




Last month H&M invited me to preview the spring '12 collection, a gorgeous mix of clean lines, soft shapes and delicious hues that I know you are going to love. Here's the lookbook, I'll post my off-the-rack photos soon. I'm going to start searching for some of these trends right now during end-of-the-year sales so I can be ahead of the curve come spring (which seems light years away on this 34 degree day).


  • For spring, the silhouette is a mix of tailored and fluid. A palette of white and neutrals are worn with fruit-color accents like yellow, orange, or apple green along with softer shades like apricot and blue.

  • For fabrics, think cotton and jersey, silk, leather, organza and linen. Details range from formal tailored details that emphasize the androgynous look contrasted with soft gathering, wrap cuts and pleats to maximize volume while holding the shape.


  • Key pieces to covet include a white suit, jersey tank, sleeveless leather jacket, shirtdress, draped kimono jacket, short quilted jacket, draped vest, wrap dress and wide-leg pants.


  • Key accessories to enhance your look include loafers or wooden-sole platforms, multiple bangles, leather necklaces, clutch bags and white sunglasses.


  • My top picks include the vivid orange pants, mod wedge sandals and leather moto vest.


Which elements stand out for you?