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?

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)

AEO Criss-Cross Sandal

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

Women's Cross-Strap Sandals

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

Women's Mossimo Supply Co. Lavinia Sandal

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:

This bright orange eyelet sundress by Madewell is $104.50 (down from $150).

Eyelet sundress

Get the look for less with this Old Navy eyelet dress instead, just $34.95 - and it comes in 7 gorgeous colors! Saw these today in store and they look great. Thinking about buying the maternity version online.

Women's Mixed-Eyelet Dresses

All-American undie brand Jockey has been upping their fashion quotient with moves like a recent collab with celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe. At their Fall 2013 press preview, Jockey continues that trend with reimagined basics for every woman and every occasion. Budget Babe contributor Vanessa Williams Stevenson of Leather and Lollipops reports. —BB

by Vanessa Williams Stevenson
Yesterday afternoon Jockey hosted their Fall 2013 Seasonal Preview event at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City. The designers breathed new life into the collection by introducing a modern twist on the classics in a variety of colors, designs, materials and cuts. The presentation made it apparent that Jockey really thought about each piece and really wanted to give women with different body shapes great undergarment choices for all situations. The options are endless whether you're going to work, a formal event, working out or just relaxing at home.

Jockey really addressed practical everyday issues that we experience with undergarments and made it clear that they really wanted to give women the opportunity to pick and choose based on their specific needs. There is shape wear that has a much more subtle approach to pulling everything together, work out pants that come in different lengths so you can pick and choose based on your height, different cuts of underwear you can choose based on your shape and crisp stretchy tanks that are formal enough to wear under a suit jacket and casual enough to wear with jeans.

I was intrigued by all of the selections and I really appreciated the fact that Jockey is trying to get better and better and address issues brought to them by their customers. I loved the boyshorts and hipsters and the great colors and prints. Some of the collection is available for purchase now and the remainder of the items will be released throughout the coming months. I would definitely recommend checking out Jockey's offerings because there is truly something for everyone. —VWS