The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Seeing Double: World Shopper Tote




You know something's hot when Forever 21 comes a knock knock knockin' on (or off?) your door. And apparently, reusable shopping totes are smoking: Forever 21 seems to have copied this World Shopper Bag (a bag that we featured back in July 2007) from Target. The price difference is negligible, so I'd say go with the original. But hey, as long as you're skipping the paper and plastic, I suppose any reusable bag is better than none.

>> Left: World Shoppers Bag at Target.com, $13.99
>> Right: World Shopper Tote at Forever21.com, $10.80


Poll: Are Jellies Hot or Not?


Seems like every designer is reworking the jelly sandal for Spring - Marc Jacobs, Givenchy, Fendi, and Michael Kors to name a few - and there are dozens of budget-friendly jellies to choose from as well. But we all know (especially us '80s babies) that plastic shoes often equal painful, sweaty feet. Nonetheless, something like this clear jelly thong sandal (above) with an adjustable ankle strap looks pretty cute and wearable for say, the beach or poolside - and for $7.80, we're willing to give juicy jellies one more try! But what about you…


Above: Pella Jelly Thong at Forever21.com (also available in charcoal), $7.80

Paint-Splash Prints on a Budget




Designers are referencing art movements such as abstract expressionism for Spring. What does it all mean? It's time to express your inner artist. Paint splatters never looked so chic.

[1] Go International Abstract Stripe Top at Target.com, $18.99
[2] Brushed Chiffon Tunic at Forever21.com, $19.80
[3] Ombre Print Dress at Topshop.com, £50.00
[4] Abstract Metallic Top at Forever21.com, $22.80
[5] Simply Vera Vera Wang Shirred-Neck Tee at Kohl's stores, now $24.99
[6] Contemporary chiffon tunic at Forever21.com, $27.80
[7] Simply Vera Vera Wang Embellished Top at Kohl's stores, now $34.99

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BBC Launches Online Ethical Fashion Magazine "Thread"

From the BBC Pressroom: "As ethical fashion promises to be the next big thing, the BBC has today launched Thread – a new online magazine for fashion conscious people who care about where their clothes come from.

"Thread will cut to the heart of what 'ethical fashion' means, covering a range of issues from the environmental footprint of clothing manufacture, to the impact of the fashion industry on human and animal rights and why the choices we make as clothes shoppers make a real difference.

"First and foremost Thread is dedicated to showcasing the latest in eco-fabulous style. The magazine shows you how to get the look you want in an eco-glam way through a unique mix of affordable fashion, exclusive celebrity videos and interviews, photo galleries and thought-provoking features.

"It will also offer ideas and information on how to give your wardrobe an ethical makeover through a mix of shopping for new or vintage clothes, to swapping clothes with friends and customising existing clothes. Thread is proof that there are ethical options to suit your style, your budget and your views."


I'm bookmarking the site, even though I suspect Thread will have things to tell me that I won't necessarily want to hear. But when you know better, you do better. So bring on the big issues, Thread! We're listening...

>> Visit Thread

Happy Earth Day! 5 Earth-Friendly Finds




As we celebrate Earth Day, I could give you pithy eco-friendly tips such as 1) switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs, 2) use a reusable shopping tote rather than paper or plastic, and 3) drink tap water instead of bottled. But we'll let the eco blogs handle that. Instead, we offer you 5 eco-conscious fashion and beauty finds to get you in the mood for greener living. Enjoy!

[1] Everyday is Earthday Tee at Forever21.com, $16.90 (If you're gonna wear a logo tee, why not make it green?)
[2] Tom's of Maine Natural Toothpaste at Drugstore.com, $4.89 (The yummiest toothpaste ever, which claims to be natural to boot)
[3] Labello Milk & Honey lip balm at SmallFlower.com, $8.95 (Visit Merz Apothecary, Small Flower's retail store, if you're ever in Chicago! It's an experience.)
[4] Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Soap at Amazon.com, $3.25 (My bf is addicted to this silky, refreshing bar soap)
[5] Handmade Felt Flower Brooch by Ei! Kumpel, € 8.50 EUR (Unique, handmade crafts that make great gifts, too)

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