The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

nicole by Nicole Miller Spring 2012 Lookbook




Take a look at the nicole by Nicole Miller Spring 2012 lookbook, showing the designer's signature bold prints, pretty palette and breezy silhouettes for us to look forward to come warmer weather. Taking a relaxed yet urban approach to spring dressing, the brand pairs flowy asymmetric tops with slim black bottoms, and abstract print maxi dresses with retro platform wedges. I love the graphic striped maxi skirt and the slimming blue and black colorblock sheath dress. All the apparel, shoes and bags in these looks are part of the nicole by Nicole Miller line and will be available for purchase online at jcp.com and/or in stores from now through April. Which pieces are on your to-buy list?

Ask BB: How to Style Smoker Flats

I just purchased these great Mossimo "Vilda" turquoise smoker flats from Target (shown below). I fell in love with them when I saw them but now I'm having the hardest time trying to find something to wear with them. Help! —DM



These colorful flats are just begging to be styled in all sorts of creative ways. The smoker flat or slip-on loafer has this great, timeless silhouette that will add a little sophistication to even the simplest looks. I just bought a pair from Sole Society (The Capri in gray) and I can't wait for warmer weather so I can wear them.

Here are three outfits to help give you some styling ideas for your new shoes:

The Shops at Target Sneak Peek [PHOTOS]




This afternoon, I had the chance to attend a press preview for The Shops at Target, a new design program from Tar-jay. Through this ongoing program, Target will partner directly with the shop owners of specialty stores and boutiques to co-create affordable, limited-edition collections for its guests. The first flight of The Shops at Target, which debuts on May 6 at all Target stores and Target.com, features five exclusive collections across five different product categories: Sweet treats from The Candy Store, beauty products from Cos Bar, pet treats and accessories from Polka Dog Bakery, home decor from Privet House and chic apparel, shoes and jewelry from The Webster. The collections reflect each shop owner's unique perspective, offering Target's guests the opportunity to experience each shop's distinct aesthetic simply by visiting their local Target store or Target.com. With prices ranging from $1 for a nail file to $159.99 for an online-only pouf for the home, the five collections total nearly 400 exclusive products.

I had the chance to meet all the boutique owners and they seemed universally thrilled to be able to share their passion with a larger audience. I will definitely be spoiling my dog with chic treats from Boston-based Polka Dog Bakery, sprucing up my home with melamine plates from Connecticut-based Privet House, and treating myself to a manicure with the amazing nail polish colors from Cos Bar. My only concern will be the execution of this ambitious plan - will the mini boutiques at my local Tar-jay look half as glamorous as the displays I saw today? I hope so!

Click through to see a sampling of products from each boutique. Mouse over any image for details and pricing.

What do you think of this concept? Yay or not so sure?