The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: Christian Louboutin PVC Illusion Pumps Look for Less


Christian Louboutin "Unbout" and "Pivichic" pumps

I have been seeing the Christian Louboutin PVC "Un Bout" pump (above left) and the "Pivichic" pumps and I just can't resist! But I live in flats and although pumps and stilettos are wonderful to look at, my feet belong to flats. Any idea where I could find some flats with a similar illusion-like, clear look to them? —JG

Celebrities like Kristen Stewart, Brooklyn Decker and Emma Stone all share your love of Christian Louboutin's modern take on the see-through Cinderella slipper, whether in neon and clear plastic, bright red or demure black.


But even Christian Louboutin recognizes some ladies will prefer to take on this trend with both feet firmly planted on the ground, so there's a flat option to fit the bill:



The "Corbeau Ayers" $625 pricetag is a bit prohibitive, so let's look at some look-for-less options.

First, for those who want the heel, here's an option at ShopChameleon.com for $34.99 (I prefer the tan):

Louboutin un boot neon plastic knockoff


Qupid makes a version of this shoe, too, in white, black or pink for $39.95 at DSW.com (they also make a cute flat!):



These BCBGeneration PVC "Cynthia" pumps are another good option - the quality is probably better for $89:



For flats, Forever 21 carries these clear plastic cap-toes in black or peach for $19.90:



...or these bold jelly flats in neon yellow or pink for $24.80:



JustFab.com has a plastic cap-toe flat, too, in yellow, peach or light blue for $29.95 called the "Trieste":

JustFab.com Trieste flats


Meanwhile UrbanOutfitters.com carries these Deena & Ozzy clear flats with a cool ankle-strap ($34):



Have a suggestion for JG? Let her know in the comments!

The (Exact) Look for Less: Baublebar Neon Alaqua Necklace

Baublebar's Neon Alaqua Necklace sells for $36 and is part of the just-launched Courtney Kerr Collection, an assortment of awesome baubles curated by the Dallas blogger.

Baublebar x Courtney Kerr collection necklace


It pains me to share this because I'm such a huge Baublebar fan but, well, it's what I do! GoJane.com carries this layered tribal necklace which looks identical to the necklace at Baublebar for just $24.70. This necklace also comes in a black/gold style and you can click either image for details.

GoJane.com tribal necklace


Lunch Hour Shopping: Donna Morgan Maternity at Gilt


Donna Morgan maternity at Gilt

If you're expecting, then you probably know how difficult it can be to find a flattering maternity dress that doesn't scream "I'm pregnant" or cost an exorbitant amount of money - money that you'd probably rather reserve for your impending bundle of joy. With this in mind, let me suggest you head over to Gilt.com now to check out the new Donna Morgan dress sale, which features fun, flattering summer options, mostly around $50. These are dresses you can wear to work or your baby shower, even a casual summer wedding, while staying comfortable and stylish. And if you miss this sale, keep checking back - Gilt.com is a surprising source of maternity wear that's actually really affordably priced - not always, but more often than not - so you're bound to find a gem or two if you check back.

{My top picks (from left): Tatiana Printed Dress, $54 (down from $128); Jasmine Crochet Tank Dress, $97 (down from $158); Striped Cowl Neck Dress, $50 (down from $118)}

The Look for Less: Michael Kors Black and Orange Ankle Strap Sandals

Gwyneth Paltrow recently caught my attention in a purple Victoria Beckham dress which she paired with black and orange Michael Kors ankle strap heels from the designer's Fall 2013 collection. I don't know the exact price of these shoes but one can assume they're pricey.

Get the look for less with these "Lookglobal" heels by Nine West, available in black/blue or tan/orange for $52.99 at 6pm.com or $89 at amazon.com. Click either image to shop.