The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Off the Rack: T.J. Maxx March Highlights Under $30


T.J. Maxx fashions under $30

Earlier this week I paid a visit to T.J. Maxx to scope out the spring trends for you guys (not for myself, sadly, because it's still polar-vortexing in Connecticut). I saw lots of things to look forward to, from colorful print dresses (daisies are everywhere) to ankle strap flats and shiny statement necklaces. There were also lots of wear now and later pieces like embellished sweatshirts and boots with cut-outs. Kate Spade Saturday appeared to be new on the scene - I spotted some delicate jewelry and a striped canvas tote bag by the designer brand. So what did I buy? A Lamaze book for $0.70, some Munchkin outlet covers, Method hand soap, a gold chevron stripe notebook, a Green Toys submarine and lentil chips. Nothing too exciting but at least I saved a few dollars on things I needed anyways.

Keep reading for more photos of fashion finds I loved under $30 (except for the designer handbags towards the bottom, those are just to tease you).

Off the Rack: Early March Highlights at Target




I'm not sure if the selection of clothes and shoes at Target is really, really good right now, or whether I just have the best shopping buddy in the whole wide world (which I do), but I had a lot of fun at Target this week. Too much fun. For spring, trends like 60s mod and Minimalism translate into plenty of wearable day to night looks with dresses and separates that flatter everyone. My eye was drawn to all the polka dots (on a cute blouse and lightweight anorak), the stripes (like a J.Crew-eque top) and a leopard print shirtdress. And don't even get me started on the shoes! Cap-toe and bow-embellished flats, yes and yes. My shopping buddy was more impressed by the plastic clothes hangers, but I digress. Scroll down for some more in-store highlights. P.S. Peter Pilotto is on clearance in case you wanted to pick up a few more things.

The Look for Less: Dolce Vita 'Elka' Sandal

Dolce Vita's "Elka" ankle-strap chunky heel sandal originally retailed for $169. It's available in black, cognac or yellow in limited sizes for $70 at AMAZON.COM.

Dolce Vita Elka


Get the look for less from Charlotte Russe with their perforated ankle strap sandal, just $32.50 in black, white or my personal favorite, blush pink, online only at CHARLOTTERUSSE.COM. Right now they're offering a buy 1, get one for $15 sale, too!


The Look for Less: Isabel Marant 'Carol' Sandal

Parisian designer Isabel Marant's coveted "Carol" stud sandals were $1,035 at NET-A-PORTER.COM (but are currently sold out).

Isabel Marant Carol sandal dupe copy knockoff


Fashion blogger fans include Song of Style, Sea of Shoes and The Blonde Saland, to name a few (images from here, here and here).


Fashion bloggers love Isabel Marant Carol sandals


Get the look for less with these lookalike sandals from Charlotte Russe, just $35.50 at CHARLOTTERUSSE.COM.