The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

ZARA Spring 2012 Lookbook




In addition to the Spring 2012 Catalog, Zara also produces a Lookbook which highlights key fashion trends for the season. Zara takes its cues straight from the runways: Pastel separates reference 3.1 Phillip Lim while futuristic florals feel plucked from Prabal Gurung. The big difference here is price, as most of Zara's amazing appararel, handbags and shoes are priced under $100 (and they have great sales). If there's one takeaway for me it's that bead embellished collar, seems like an easy DIY that would make a big impact. Let me know what you think of the lookbook in the comments!

5 Under $50: Peplum


Peplum is all fine and good when it's on the runways at Vera Wang, Giorgio Armani and Jason Wu (models don't mind added volume on the hips and thighs) but can it work in real life? I have yet to try but my adventurous side is contemplating these pretty peplum pieces under $50. Are you wearing peplum this spring?

The Look for Less: J.Crew Polka-Dot Pencil Skirt

J.Crew's polka-dot pencil skirt is $189.99 (down from $250) but is sold out in most sizes. Another amazing option is their Big-Shot Dot circle skirt for $128.



Get the look for less with this polka-dot skirt by Alfani for $59 at Macy's.



Or, try out River Island's polka-dot skirt, which is $35.81 at ASOS.com.



Take a cue from J.Crew's store window displays (here) and pair your polka-dot skirt with a denim shirt and red crossbody bag for a classy springtime look.


Alberta Ferretti for Macy's Impulse Lookbook and Launch Party




Earlier this week, Macy's hosted a launch party to celebrate their exclusive collaboration with Italian designer Alberta Ferretti. I wasn't able to make it into the city for the event, but Macy's shared these images with me. Doesn't it look dreamy?! Models in the garden-party chic attire were surrounded by spring blossoms and caged birds, conjuring the breezy, laid-back landscapes of Ferretti's home. I'm especially drawn to the bold hued dresses and abstract floral prints. The macramé and lace detailing also looks alluring for summer. Priced on average from $49 – $119, the Alberta Ferretti for Impulse collection will be available in approximately 185 Macy's stores and on macys.com beginning April 17.

Which pieces do you love?

Cheap, Cheaper, Cheapest: Metallic Flip-Flops

As seen on Lauren Conrad, TKEES Highlighters thong sandals retail for $48 at shopbop.com. A cute flip-flop you can wear all summer long.




Save a few bucks and get a similar look with these gold leather flip-flops from Gap, available in ten amazing colors for $24.95.




Want the look for even less? Try Mossimo for Target's mirrored flats for just $12.99.




Which would you choose?