The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

WHITE by Vera Wang Spring 2013 Collection Images




With my sister's wedding less than two weeks away, I've got wedding style on my mind, which is why the WHITE by Vera Wang Spring 2013 collection images have my heart aflutter. For brides and bridesmaids on a budget (honestly, which bride isn't watching her costs?), I don't think it gets any better than WHITE. You get the designs that Vera Wang is so famous for without those couture prices. I actually wore a WHITE by Vera Wang gown, sash and veil which I purchased at David's Bridal for my own wedding in September of 2011 (you can peep a few photos here), and I could not have been happier.

But back to the Spring 2013 collection: This season, the WHITE by Vera Wang collection has a range of chic options from stylish tulle dresses with organza petal embellishments to sparkling bejeweled heels. With all bridesmaid dress styles and accessories under $200, and all gowns under $1,500, the collection is both fashionable and affordable. Look for these styles in-stores at David's Bridal and online at DavidsBridal.com.

Lunch Hour Shopping: Winter Steals From $15 at Gilt




What better way to cut through today's winter chill than with a few new fashion finds? Gilt has a couple great pieces on sale right now that will definitely warm things up, like cool cold-weather boots, Sam Edelman outerwear (didn't even realize they made outerwear!) and new baubles for your arm party. Shop now for the best selection at Gilt.com.

{BB's Picks: Sorel "Joan of Arctic" boots, $89 (down from $150); Sam Edelman stud shoulder trench, $129 (down from $340); Leslie Danz gold spike bracelet, $15 (down from $30)}


Huge Favor to Ask: Nominate The Budget Babe for the 2013 Weblog Awards!


The 13th Annual Weblog Awards are now accepting nominations for your favorite blogs, and it would be a huge honor if you would consider nominating The Budget Babe for "Best Fashion or Beauty Weblog"! While you're there, you can nominate your favs in other categories, too, from food to crafts and more. You guys know I don't ask for many favors (and I feel super awkward asking for this one), but it would really be a huge honor just to get nominated. After all, it's a new year and we gotta dream big! So if you enjoy reading The Budget Babe, please consider heading to 2013.bloggi.es and nominating us for "Best Fashion or Beauty Weblog." Your support means so much and I can't thank you enough for all the love and friendship you've shown me over the years.

Ask BB: Feeling Intimidated by Fashion




So my friend and I are taking a long girls weekend in NYC in February, and I'm SO intimidated by the "fashionista" status of that city! What should I wear so I don't feel like a fashion dud? More specifically, how do I look stylish going out (but also warm?!) —Mackenzie

I can totally relate because I feel the same way nearly every time I head into the city. Those city dwellers have it so good: The world of shopping at their fingertips, from luxury labels to the best thrift stores. And inspiration surrounds them, the architecture, the art, the PEOPLE! New Yorkers are schooled in style every day of their lives just by walking around and looking around with their eyes. And when they gather, whether at work or with friends, the learning process continues..."Where did you get that?" "Oh, look at what she's wearing!"

So how can we keep up? The good thing is that style is not uniform in New York so don't think you have to look a certain way (ahem, like Olivia Palermo). You can totally be yourself. But of course you want more concrete information than that.

What I've noticed about really stylish people, especially NYC bloggers, is that they rely on certain statement pieces - especially during the winter - to do the work for them. Think faux fur, eye-catching shoes and fabrics, and unique silhouettes. Just a single where-did-you-get-that-piece can pretty much carry you through any situation.

Let's look at some examples. Take this coat from Topshop (a store you will absolutely want to visit when you're in town!) - that bold fur collar and designer cut will do all the legwork for you, just have the confidence to wear it!