Does budget fashion breed innovation among designers? While this issue is hotly debated, I'm inclined to think it most certainly does. It would seem only logical that designers at the top have to push their materials, techniques and styles to new horizons in order to keep ahead of the imitators and knock-offs close at their heels.

Here is perhaps one such example of designer innovation, spurred at least in part by the need to stand out from a "sea of imitation," and create a unique and desirable product that can call a high pricetag:


From CNN.com:
"High-tech fabrics, such as those with anti-microbial or rubberized properties, are increasingly finding their way onto the runways. Burberry is selling a trench coat made from rubberized materials originally developed for scuba diving. Two hundred dollar T-shirts by a company called Established 1887 are embedded with silver chips that have antimicrobial properties to repel stains and odors. As an added benefit, these fabrics are harder to knock off and so help designers differentiate their clothes from a sea of imitation."

Image source: PostSecret

Dear Readers: When someone asks you, "Where'd you get that [dress, purse, lipstick, etc.]?" - What do you say? Do you tell them the truth or do you make up a wee white lie...? Share your secret in the comments.

These hot pink denim jeans from Forever 21 have got me singing...

"Some say it's mystic
It's electric
Boogie woogie, woogie
You can't resist it
It's electric
Boogie woogie, woogie
You can't do without it
It's electric
Boogie woogie, woogie
Jiggle-a-mesa-cara she's a pumpin' like a matic
She's movin' like electric
She sure got the boogie..."

>> Hot Pink Kaira Skinny Jean, $29.80

Related Links:
>> Spring 2008's neon & neutral trend

Nothing says "Be my Valentine" quite like sexy lingerie. Then again, nothing says "turn off" quite like a steep price tag. Lucky for us, red-hot lingerie doesn't have to cost a bundle. And why should it? We make the case for cheap thrills:

• Sexy is a state of mind, not a dollar sign.


• Gents don't care one way or the other (but if they want to buy us fine lingerie as a gift, that's perfectly acceptable - and encouraged.)


• Rough play in the boudoir warrants worry-free prices at the checkout counter.


• Passion is stifled by overpriced, overly precious underthings.


• All your favorite budget fashion retailers carry chic intimate apparel at dirt-cheap prices. Try H&M, Forever 21, Rampage, Marshall's, T.J. Maxx and Target.

Budget lingerie from Forever 21: [1] Satin Lace Slip in hot pink, $10.80 [2] Bella Babydoll Slip in rose, $15.80 [3] Jessica Slip in black, $12.80 [4] Satin Lace Slip in purple, $10.80

Attention XM Radio listeners: Tune in today to Channel 156 to hear Oprah's best bud Gayle King interview Bravo's style mentor, Tim Gunn! The Project Runway star shows a personal side that's warm, endearing and utterly Tim. Paired with Gayle's upbeat, honest attitude, it's an hour of good, clean fun - and fashion! Don't forget the fashion!

>> Get the program schedule here.

>> Don't subscribe to satellite radio? Listen to a clip of the show here.

Image source: Oprah.com