The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

The Look for Less: Free People Utility Shirt

Check out this Free People look for less.
Utility shirts are a wardrobe staple in my closet, right next to my chambrays and white button-downs. They're great for layering and never fail with your favorite jeans and a Chelsea boot. Free People has a solid option on sale now at Shopbop.com (try code 25LUXE to get an additional 25% off!) or try the look with Target's version - either way you can't go wrong.

The Look: Free People Button Down Blouse, $70.20 (down from $108)

For Less: Mossimo Button Down Shirt, $22.99

Off the Rack: New Knox Rose at Target

New Knox Rose at Target
It seems like the Knox Rose section at my local Target has expanded - does this mean it's been popular with shoppers since its debut back in the fall of 2015? I have to admit it's growing on me. The pieces are laid back and casual but feature unique details like cut-out shoulders, embroidery, lace, or fringe detailing. And the silhouettes are everyday glam...think off-the-shoulder, or oversized in a cool way.

Knox Rose reminds me of Free People, a super popular brand, and at a fraction of the price, I wouldn't be surprised if it's doing well. On the flip side, I've heard mixed reviews from readers...some say the quality isn't there, others say the perception is that it's priced higher than Mossimo and Merona, while others love the look but say the fit is off. I'm all about Mossimo lately and may have purchased this flannel shirt on clearance in 4 colors. Yup, I love it that much.

But I have my boho moments, too, and Knox Rose has some really cool pieces like this open-front cardigan, this knit top with lace sleeves, or this fringe pullover. Add your favorite distressed jeans, a pair of ankle boots, and you'll have people thinking you spent a small fortune on Free People in no time.

Any Knox Rose fans? What do you think of the quality and style?

Dollar Bin Diaries: Valentine's Day Finds at Target

Valentine's Day is back in the Target Dollar Spot.
Target is gearing up for Valentine's Day with its annual explosion of hearts and all things pretty-and-pink in the dollar spot. Whether you're planning a party or decorating your workspace, you'll find tons of adorable items to ooh and aah over.

I love the vintage inspired hobnail glassware that includes votive holders and drinking glasses, the tassel garlands, and the pretty heart shaped message boards.

I also love the trinket trays, polka-dot mugs, necklace stands, and rolling pins. Who am I kidding, I love just about everything and it took every ounce of willpower to resist filling up my cart!

Target makes it all stylish and affordable (just be mindful of the prices which range from $1 to $5 per item). What have you picked up this month at the dollar spot?

The Look for Less: Tularosa Faux Fur Jacket

Look for Less
If you caught yesterday's celebrity look for less, you'll recognize today's inspiration comes from Jamie Chung, author of What the Chung. It's easily one of my favorite fashion blogs, blending It-girl style with wearable pieces and a laid-back California approach that doesn't take itself too seriously.

And that's where I spotted this Tularosa multicolored faux fur jacket, a statement coat if ever there was one. I love how Jamie opted to pair the bold topper with an unassuming white blouse and skinny jeans.

Love the look? Take your pick of the real or the steal below...and visit What the Chung for complete outfit details and more styling tips!

The Look: Tularosa 'Pfeiffer' Faux Fur Jacket, $328 at revolveclothing.com OR $196.80 (down from $328) at shopbop.com

For Less: Multi Color Faux Fur Jacket, $39.99 at tjmaxx.com


Jamie Chung Photo Credit: What the Chung

Lovely Layers: Jamie Chung's Grey Sweater Dress and Camel Vest Look for Less

Recreate Jamie Chung's grey sweaterdress and camel vest look for less.
Jamie Chung was seen shopping at Melrose Place in Los Angeles wearing a grey turtleneck dress, cognac brown knee-high boots, and a camel vest.

The style pro finished her look with retro-inspired sunglasses and a bohemian tote featuring a geometric print and macrame detailing.

The main takeaways from this look (and there are many!) are the gorgeous mix of neutrals, the winter layering technique of adding a vest, and the precise proportions.

To tell you the truth, this look was a lot harder to recreate on a budget than I anticipated. While sleeveless blazers/jackets and longline duster vests (or whatever you want to call them!) have been super hot lately, they also seem to be sold out everywhere. Fortunately I stumbled upon one option at Amazon that I hope you'll like.

MORE: Chrissy Teigen's Sweater Dress and Over-the-Knee Boots Look for Less

Recreate Jamie Chung's grey sweaterdress and camel vest look for less.

Shop the Look for Less:


Long Sleeveless Jacket on Amazon, $13.80 // Caslon Sweater Dress, $47.50 (down from $79) // Ava and Viv Plus Size Sweater Dress, $29.99 // Dr. Scholl's 'Lydia' Boots, $136.90 (down from $197.95) // Global Girlfriend Crochet Bag, $48 (women made, fair trade) // Forever 21 Sunglasses, $7.90


Jamie Chung Photo Credit: Sam Sharma, PacificCoastNews