The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

The Look for Less: Dolce Vita 'Sarus' Lace Dress

This pinkish-coral lace confection from Dolce Vita is $121 at Shopbop.com. I've been lusting after it since spying it on Cupcakes & Cashmere (here).



Get a similar look for less with this LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's fit and flare dress ($45 down from $60)...



...or this Apt. 9 lace shift dress (belt it, maybe?) for $42 (down from $60). If you're paying with your Kohl's charge, use code LOVETOSHOP to get 20% off.



60 Second Beauty: Spa Sonic Skin Care System


Spa Sonic Review

The moment I received my Spa Sonic Skin Care System and posted a picture of the unopened box on Instagram, I knew I was in for a real treat - dozens of readers rushed to comment and share their thoughts on the "original" face polisher - the Clarisonic - unanimously singing its praises.

The Spa Sonic positions itself as the cheaper, budget alternative to the Clarisonic, so that's why I'm reviewing it. I have never tried the Clarisonic (I'm deprived) so I can't do an accurate comparison but you can find literally hundreds of reviews and comparisons online and on YouTube (I found this one to be particularly detailed and helpful).

Ok, so let's get started! I've been using my Spa Sonic for about two weeks now, so I can't speak to the longevity of the product or longterm results, but here are my initial impressions: First of all, it's supereasy to operate. You just pop in the batteries and snap on the brush that you want to use and you're ready to go. I love the modern, sleek look of this all-white device that fits comfortably in your hand, doesn't make much noise, and vibrates ever-so-gently.

The Spa Sonic comes with four attachments: A small brush for the face, a large brush for the body, pumice for rough areas, and a facial sponge for micro-dermabrasion and reduction of fine lines. One extra face brush is also included since this is the one you'll probably wear out the fastest.

I started out with the face brush and I was instantly WOWED. So this is what I've been missing out on!!?? If the Spa Sonic is the cheap-o face polisher, I can't even begin to imagine how amazing the Clarisonic must be, because the Spa Sonic is pretty awesome. The brush rotates in a full circle, gently exfoliating and massaging every pore, every skin cell with the utmost of ease. It feels soothing and unless my eyes deceive me, my skin looked better after just one use. It could be a placebo effect but who cares?! I felt so pampered, so rejuvenated. Who knew a little rotating brush could do so much?