The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

My Mini Old Navy Clearance Sale Haul


Since I just got over the flu and desperately wanted to get out of the house, I decided to swing by Old Navy today to check out the clearance sale they've been advertising. I'm not sure when it started but it runs through 1/30/13, online and in-stores (prices may vary, select styles only, while supplies last). I envisioned stumbling upon the very last fox sweater (the one I featured in this post), in my size, marked down to mere pennies...but in reality, I didn't find all that much.

Still, I didn't leave empty handed. I scooped up a bright orange peacoat (pretty sure it's the same one Olivia Palermo has in yellow) that was $14.99 (down from $54.94). I guess not many people were drawn to the orange but it was my favorite color of the bunch! I also scooped up a geometric print dress for just $7.49, something about the print and cut gave it a retro-Tory Burch-vibe that I really liked. Both pieces will inject a little fun and much-needed color into my mid-winter wardrobe.

Have you been to Old Navy lately? Which pieces did you set your eye on?



Prabal Gurung for Target Lookbook




The Prabal Gurung for Target lookbook is out, and while you've probably already seen this, I am dying to hear your thoughts! I'm feeling better for the first time in days and wanted to say thank you for all your kind get-well wishes. The flu sucks. So let's talk fashion! The Prabal Gurung for Target collection was inspired by a "tender love story, offering women’s apparel and accessories suitable for all occasions from the initial crush, to the first kiss, to everlasting love." Ranging in price from $19.99 to $199.99 for apparel and $12.99 to $39.99 for accessories and shoes, Prabal Gurung for Target will be available Feb. 10, 2013 at all Target stores and Target.com. It's been a while since I saw this collection in person at a Target press preview in New York City. Well, I loved it then, and I love it even more now. There are the bold, signature prints that Prabal fans adore but also sophisticated solids like that red dress with the ruffles - how hot would that look for Valentine's Day? The shoes are another highlight for me (those strappy sandals!), while the jewelry feels like an afterthought - could have skipped that.

You can also view the behind-the-scenes look book video on Target's ABullseyeView.

So, what do you think?? If you have specific questions about pricing, let me know and I'll do my best to answer.

The Look for Less: Madewell Polka Dot Blazer

Madewell's polka dot blazer is serious enough for a casual office while still playful enough to make a cheeky fashion statement. ($96.60, down from $138 at shopbop.com)



Get the look for less with Xhilaration's polka dot blazer instead, which is $24.99 at target.com. Wear it with a simple solid top and colored denim (or even printed pants if you dare).



Which would you wear?

H&M Spring 2013 Lookbook and More Exciting News from the Fashion Giant


H&M Spring 2013 Lookbook Images

Lots of exciting updates from H&M today: First, we have the Spring 2013 Lookbook images (you've already seen the video lookbook back in November). I like the pineapple tee. Designers like Balmain and Isabel Marant seem to be major sources of inspiration this season, from the color palette to the exaggerated jackets on shoulder, bohemian embellishments, use of prints and other cool-girl details.

Next, I got news back in December which I tweeted that H&M will be the first fashion company to launch a clothing collecting initiative worldwide. From February 2013, customers will be able to hand in used garments in H&M stores in all 48 markets. Sustainability is an important part of H&M's offering, says the company, and H&M strives to reduce the environmental impact of clothes throughout their lifecycle. How amazing is this?! Hopefully other stores like Forever 21 and Target will be next.

Meanwhile, the new fashion brand & Other Stories, H&M's new "luxury" brand, will launch its first collections during spring in seven cities and through an online store on stories.com in ten European countries. You can follow & Other Stories on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news, including (I hope) when they'll be opening in the United States.

Off the Rack: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's 'Bright Escape' Collection


While shopping the year-end sale at Kohl's last week, I couldn't help but notice a new installment of spring apparel from the LC Lauren Conrad collection. No really, you couldn't miss it - the colors were literally popping off the racks! And to be honest, it was almost an insult considering the freezing temperatures we've been having lately. But who could hold a grudge against those bright blues, cheerful yellows and vibrant mango hues? Floral denim begged to be paired with breezy blouses while a floral blazer and lightwashed denim moto jacket made my puffy coat feel oppressive. If you could use a little "bright escape," head to your local Kohl's or kohls.com to check out this fun little capsule. Prices ranged from $25-$47 on sale. See anything you like?