The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Bloggers Rocking Budget Finds: Chic Choolee, Hitha On The Go and More

Bloggers rocking budget finds

Merry day after Christmas! Hope everyone is enjoying their holiday. There are tons of amazing sales going on now but if you're not sure what to shop for, I thought I'd introduce you to five style bloggers showcasing their fabulous winter style and rocking budget-friendly finds! All items are on sale - and if you don't love these particular pieces, you'll still want to browse the stores linked to below for other major winter sale steals. From a pretty pastel pink coat available at Old Navy to must-have pearl stud earrings (inspired by Dior, no less), here are five picks to love right now:

3 Ways to Wear: New Year's Eve Mini Skirt


3 ways to style a mini skirt for a night out!

New Year's Eve is almost here, and whether you're staying in or going out for a night on the town, this is one holiday worth dressing up for! It's time to break out those sequins, leather and statement making accessories so that your style can shine as bright as your wishes for 2015. While cocktail dresses are always a good idea, another piece you probably own and can style up for the evening is a festive mini skirt (I got inspired by this sequin number from H&M which you may have seen on my Instagram feed!) Need ideas on how to style it? Let's look back at three celebrity looks for inspiration!

1. Kate Hudson: Leather and faux leather skirts were everywhere this season, so if you picked up one, styling it is as easy as pairing it with a demure black blouse (love Kate's long-sleeve wrap) and finishing the look with your brightest, sassiest colorful pumps.

2. Estelle: You couldn't resist that sequin mini skirt glittering on the racks, now go ahead and wear it! You don't have to get too fussy - a simple black top is best to let your sequin mini shine. Add black opaque tights for colder climes.

3. Brooklyn Decker: If you're staying in or doing something a little more low key, consider a metallic mini with your favorite chambray button down. Not only is this look comfortable but it's totally on-trend too. I could see this look working with tights and flat boots, too!

Tip: "Pin" this image to see it enlarged!

The Look for Less: Valentino 'Rockstud' T-Strap Pump


Valentino Rockstud Heels Look for Less

Ladies, I've found your New Year's Eve party shoes! The Valentino 'Rockstud' t-strap pump was undeniably one of the most popular shoes of 2014, spotted on style bloggers and fashion editors across the globe more times than I can count. But at $995 a pop, these aren't shoes that fit into most people's budget (at least not responsibly!) Luckily, Lulu's posted a photo of these Wild Diva heels on Instagram and I, like most of their followers, thought we were looking at the real deal - but no, they're just $34 lookalikes! Cheers to that.

Splurge: Valentino 'Rockstud' T-Strap Heels, $995 in 3 colors at Nordstrom
Steal: Wild Diva 'Lounge Adora 55 Dark Red Studded T-Strap Pointed Heels, $34 in 4 colors at Lulus.com

Off the Rack: 20 Things I Wanted to Buy at Target Today But Resisted


More Issues than Vogue sweatshirt at Target

I'm only slightly exaggerating when I titled this post "20 things I wanted to buy at Target today but resisted" - I mean, who can't use another cozy sweater or long cardigan to pair with skinny jeans or leggings this winter? And that faux fur vest - so glam. I passed it up, knowing my toddler's sticky fingers would find their way deep into the fibers. And those denim overalls - I've been wanting to try the overall trend for months now! But I know better. Can't pull it off. I could, however, pull off a wintery Fair Isle knit by Merona. Yes, that's certainly more my style. Sadly, I only shopped the fashions with my eyes today and instead left with a huge haul from the dollar aisle - I'm in panic mode, wrapping presents and finishing up little DIY goodies for everyone on my list. It's exhausting, but at least it wasn't expensive. What have you bought (or resisted buying) at Target recently?

Forever 21 Debuts Limited-Edition Collection with Artist & Designer Ron Bass


Ron Bass x Forever 21

Forever 21 is teaming up once again with New York-based artist and designer Ron Bass for an exclusive collection of limited-edition women’s and men’s apparel. The collection includes tank tops, t-shirts, hooded jackets and pants featuring emblazoned paint splatters, scribbles and sayings that are signature Ron Bass designs.