The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Spot the Real: Proenza Schouler PS1

Proenza Schouler's iconic PS1 satchel gets updated in blue for spring, with a pricetag of $1,695 at Barney's New York. The look for less - perfect for those of us who don't splurge on bags and just want something stylish for toting our lives - is available for just $27.80. See how well you know your "It" bags by clicking either image below to spot the real from the steal!




Proenza Schouler at POPSUGAR Shopping


Spot the Real Proenza bag


Forever 21 at POPSUGAR Shopping



Ask BB: Taylor Swift's Sheer Panel Dress Look for Less


Taylor Swift's sheer panel insert dress by Elizabeth & James

I was wondering if you could use your skills to track down a similar dress/shoe combo (shown above). I am in LOVE with this outfit but it's a bit out of my price range! —Abby

At Tim McGraw‘s Superstar Summer Night, Taylor Swift wore a sheer panel dress by Elizabeth & James ($375)...



...and Jean-Michel Cazabat heels ($320):



Here are some under-$100 look-for-less options that might work for us babes on a budget:

1. Boohoo.com Lilly Mesh Exposed Top And Side Bodycon Dress, $40
This UK online fashion store has lots of affordable options - search by keywords like "mesh," "bodycon," "sheer panel" or "cut-out."
Boohoo.com sheer panel dress


2. Blaque Market "Reach For The Stars" Dress, $25.95 (down from $58)
Karmaloop's new women-only site Miss KL carries lots of little hot numbers similar to Taylor's like this dress with demure long sleeves plus racy cut-outs and mesh panels.


3. ASOS Midi Dress With Sheer Detail, $49.88
It's hard to beat ASOS' selection when it comes to cute, cheap and on-trend dresses. They have lots of sheer mesh panel bodycon dress options but this one is my favorite because it's seductive yet covered up at the same time - the perfect soft/hard mix!


4. BEBE Lace Inset 3/4 Sleeve Bodycon Dress, $69
This sultry dress by Bebe plays up the sheer paneling with feminine lace.


5. GUESS Ponte Mesh-Insert Dress, $89
If you can spend a little more, this dress by Guess offers better construction and might help hide minor figure flaws a bit better, too. It's unique yet versatile enough to wear mays ways depending on how you accessorize.


As for the heels, try Sole Society's "Stephanie" for $49.95 which has a similar cage cut-out feel and sexy high heel:

Sole Society Stephanie


Have a suggestion for Abby? Let her know in the comments!