The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Off the Rack: Derek Lam for Kohl's


Derek Lam for Kohl's in real life

I finally got around to checking out the Derek Lam for Kohl's collection this week at two stores in my area, and both were still fully stocked with nearly all the styles in many sizes. That's a good thing, right? This is a really strong collection but figuring out how to wear the pieces will take a little effort on the part of shoppers - even though everything's pretty casual and relaxed, the prints and unique cuts make things challenging - or interesting, depending on your point of view. Since I'm majorly pregnant at the moment, I just gazed wistfully at the styles I wanted to fit into. Then, I spied this striped drop-waist dress that looked like it might just cover my bump, so I tried it on and - to my amazement - it fit! (I went up one size, too.) Not only that but it really felt quite nice, hugging in the right places and draping in others. And since it was on sale and I had a coupon, I bought it. I think Lam put a lot of thought into this line and it's worth a look. But no need to rush.

More off the rack photos after the jump - have you bought anything from this line yet?

Cheap, Cheaper, Cheapest: Criss Cross Sandals Under $30

It's time to start thinking about sandals (if you haven't already) because the moment the sun comes out, your toes will want some serious breathing room, too! Topping my list: Something cute and comfortable that I can slip on and off with ease and wear with everything from skirts to jeans and shorts. I've been seeing these criss-cross flat sandals everywhere and think they're the perfect pair for summer. Here are three options under $30:

Cheap: American Eagle Outfitters sandal, $29.95 (available in yellow, pink, turquoise, beige or brown)


Cheaper: Old Navy cross-strap sandal, $24.95 (available in orange, green, blue, brown/black, brown or white)


Cheapest: Mossimo for Target "Lavinia" sandal, $19.99 (available in other black, brown, red or blue)

60 Second Beauty: Sonia Kashuk Moisture Luxe Tinted Lip Balm

Sonia Kashuk Moisture Luxe Tinted Lip Balm in Hint of Coral Swatch and Review

I'm not someone who typically wears lip color on a daily basis - more of a lip balm or gloss kind of girl - but recently I've been stepping out of my comfort zone and punching things up with brighter colors for spring. The product that's convinced me color is key for a fresh spring beauty look? Sonia Kashuk's new Moisture Luxe Tinted Lip Balm in Hint of Coral. Recently I received a complimentary sample to review and here's what I thought: