Budget Babe contributor Vanessa Williams Stevenson discovers a collection of effortless, on-trend clothes for the girl-on-the-go at the Fall 2013 preview hosted by Wallis, Topshop's stylish sister brand. —BB

by Vanessa Williams Stevenson
Yesterday evening Wallis, the UK based high-street brand, hosted a presentation of their Autumn/Winter 2013 collection at the Bryant Park Hotel in New York City. I had the opportunity to discuss the collection with senior head designer Sital Mehta, who made it clear that he had a real vision for this collection. His team focused on making the collection accessible, fit for current fashion, but not a slave to the trends. Effortless and appropriate for women of all ages and sizes and most importantly, beautiful. The tailoring and construction of the pieces is wonderful. The fits are so flattering and the prints and design are so appealing.

I absolutely love this collection. The pieces lend themselves to a get-up-and-go lifestyle. I appreciate how simple it makes getting dressed; there isn't too much fuss and you're guaranteed to look great and feel comfortable no matter which of the pieces you wear. The outerwear was a standout to me. My favorites were the printed black and gray coat and the black parka with faux fur collar. This collection makes it easy to stand out, in a good way, and to feel confident in what you'r wearing. You can incorporate any of these items into your wardrobe and dress the pieces up or down. The accessories in the collection were great too. I loved all of the shoes and jewelry.

The affordable collection with be available online starting in late August. Which of these pieces are on your list for the fall? —VWS

If you're into design, you'll recognize the Marais stool instantly - it's regarded as the epitome of French cafe style and was designed by metalworker Xavier Pauchard in 1934. The wood-top version is $135 at Industry West and makes a great investment piece. I love how the Marais can soften the look of a modern space or lend a little industrial edge to balance out a more feminine decor theme.



Can't spring for the real deal? Check out this similar style stool from the Threshold line, $49.99 at Target.com. Click either image for details.



Get inspired to decorate with your Marais-style stool!

I wasn't sold on summer's new eyewear trend - mirrored sunglasses - until I saw a few of my favorite fashion bloggers working the look at Coachella (via Instagram, naturally). These reflective sunnies add a dash of fun and an aire of mystery at the same time. All while adding major attitude (and a little sun protection, too). Here, five pairs under $50 to help you test the trend (then invest in a pricier pair if you love it - I'm all for quality eyewear).

I'm graduating from a university and I wanted to know if you could give suggestions on graduation dresses? —Banke

When considering what to wear to your college graduation, keep in mind the following:

• Where will the ceremony take place?
  


• Will I be wearing a gown?
  


• What's the weather going to be like?
  


• What events will I be attending immediately after the ceremony?

Once you know the answers to these questions, you can pick the best dress for the day. Generally this will will mean something just above the knee in a breathable fabric, possibly with pockets for your cell phone (give other essentials to family members to hold on to so you don't have to fuss with a purse).

You'll probably be taking lots of photos after the ceremony and possibly heading to a luncheon or other event, so dress nicely and you won't have to worry about doing a quick-change. There might not be time.

Another thing to consider is your shoes as this might be the only part of your outfit that actually shows if you're wearing a gown. If the ceremony or seating will be on a lawn or grassy area, consider a low wedge or cute flats. A bit of a heel always looks best with those awful graduation gowns! Make sure your shoes are comfy enough to walk in - you don't want to tumble while accepting your diploma.

Here are some outfit ideas featuring dresses under $100:

Outfit idea 1: Chic sophistication



Dress, Bracelet, Shoes, Nail Polish

Outfit idea 2: Fresh and fun



Dress, Wedges, Necklace

Outfit idea 3: Playfully polished



Dress, Necklace, Shoes

Got advice for Banke? Let her know in the comments!

Target announced it is collaborating with NYC-darling Phillip Lim on an exclusive collection for women and men debuting September 15. I can hear the squeals of glee already!

3.1 Phillip Lim for Target will feature a range of apparel and accessories, including shoes, bags and travel accessories, priced from $19.99 to $299.99 for apparel and $19.99 to $59.99 for accessories.

The collection will be "rooted in a classic fall palette of neutral tones and prints." Expect to see stand-out bags, dresses and a trench coat for women, and shoes and a leather moto jacket for men. Travel accessories, such as a duffle and multipurpose pouches, round out this collection for on-to-go gals and guys.





To follow the buzz on Twitter, use hashtag #PhillipLimForTarget. 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target will be available Sept. 15 at most Target stores and Target.com.

Who's skipping lunch to save up for this?