I attended the Reem Acra Fall 2012 runway show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, my first time seeing this designer whom I've long admired for her incredible bridal wear. But there wasn't even so much as a hint of white in this collection, which was inspired by feminine power of a different sort. The show started with a lot of leather, mixed with underpinnings of lace and chiffon. Each bold look was so intricate that it was hard to absorb (the models walk by so fast), but the effect was impressive. My favorite looks were thigh-high cocktail dresses and glitzy red-carpet gowns - it's hard not to be wowed by these types of pieces on the runway, even if they have no chance of ever fitting into my own closet and lifestyle. Just pure fashion fireworks.

Earlier this month, Target hosted a health and wellness event in New York City to get the word out on their commitment to healthy living. My writer KC, who attended the event on behalf of The Budget Babe, gives us the scoop. —TBB

by KC
Target's Health Haven Resort & Well-being Club event was an oasis of calm, serenity and goodness. Taking a very holistic approach to well-being, Target highlighted a full range of their products meant to take care of you from the inside out.

First up, celebrity yogi and fitness expert (and total sweetheart) Kristin McGee demonstrated some amazing yoga poses in the C9 by Champion activewear line exclusively at Target. Time to start practicing yoga...how long before I can do this pose?

In addition to being comfortable to move in with great support, Kristin mentioned how she'll sometimes throw on a pair of boots and a scarf over her workout gear, and voila, instant cute outfit! I'm sure we've all done this, right ladies?

Here's another show I didn't get to cover in person, but the team at Deborah Lippmann filled me in (and hopefully I can go backstage next season - Rodarte is definitely one of my "dream tickets" for Fashion Week.) For Fall 2012, the Mulleavy sisters envisioned an earthy, almost dusty nail to complement their collection which took its inspiration from Australia. Bronze and golden shimmer was used in the makeup looks, so nail pro Deborah Lippmann came up with the perfect combination for the nails using two coats of No More Drama, a sultry golden caramel (fun fact: it was created with Mary J. Blige), topped with her Flat Top matte-maker top coat. I love how a matte top coat can completely change the look and feel of any given polish, and I'd definitely give this mani a go. Whether you're weathering a dust storm in the Outback or just getting through the work day, I think it's a chic nail look to mix things up. Would you wear it?

Shop it online:

Here's the Marni for H&M lookbook in all its glory, including menswear - some of the unisex looks are worth borrowing from the boys. This collection with Italian label Marni includes apparel and accessories like shoes, jewelry and handbags. Most pieces are priced around the $80 mark, while small accessories average just $19.95 (such as sequin collars) and nothing's over $149. I can see myself wearing the printed pants, leather panel sweatershirt, and just about all of the accessories (although I'd probably buy the flower necklace and end up just looking at it hanging from my dresser mirror while not actually wearing it). According to people who attended the launch party in Los Angeles which took place Friday night, the quality is great and everything looks like the real deal. Marni for H&M will be available in select stores on March 8, 2012.

MOUSE OVER any image for details and pricing. What will you attempt to buy?

One of my favorite shows each season is Brazilian designer Carlos Miele. He has a strong point of view, loves colors and loves dressing women. Sometimes shows begin to blend together because you see a lot of similar silhouettes and colors, but not so with Carlos Miele. You can't mistake his bold patterns, sexy evening gowns and unique details.

For fall 2012, the designer took inspiration from the culture of Southern Brazil, and in particular, the traditional gaúchas, which loosely translates to cowgirls. This inspiration was clear from the very first look - sand crepe pants, taupe wool poncho and an authentic black gaúcha hat. Other traditional elements were interwoven throughout, like geometric embroidery, cool leather sashes and the classic bolero.

The eveningwear references weren't quite so literal - the patterns and colors were vivid and, to me, reflected the confidence and free-spirited nature of the gaúcha. You could picture many of these looks at the Grammys. Set to the thumping sound of Latin beats, it was an energizing show all around and one of Miele's best. What do you think?