The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Off the Rack: Random Goodness at Target


Mini Target haul

My last trip to Target made me feel woefully unprepared for summer - racks were filled with swimsuits, skimpy dresses, and short shorts, while the shoe department was all about sandals, flip-flops and espadrilles. There's no point in me buying much of anything right now because I'm into my 37th week of pregnancy and even my shoes don't fit at this point, but that doesn't mean I can't look. The hi-lo frocks, ombre tees and palm-tree print shorts were calling my name. But what did I actually buy? The very last pair of Paka boots on clearance for $10.88, a set of ombre curtain panels for the nursery (and I used a 15% off Threshold drapery coupon via cartwheel.target.com), plus some paper lanterns from the dollar bins, also for the nursery. All in all, a good mini-haul.

What have you picked up at Target recently?

BB Exclusive: Get Your First Julep Maven Box FREE, Including My New Namesake Nail Polish!

Use code DIANNA to get your first Julep Maven subscription box free.

This past weekend, I shared a sneak peek at one of the new Julep nail polish colors called "Dianna," available in their June Maven Box - and now I'm happy to share an exclusive coupon code that let's you get your first box FREE!

Just enter promo code DIANNA at checkout to get your first box free (doesn't include shipping).*

Fun fact: This new mint green crème was named after me by the sweet team at Julep, so I'm really hoping you like the shade, give it a try and tell me what you think.

If you select the Boho Glam Maven box, you'll receive one bottle of "Dianna," as well as one bottle of "Lexie" - a dandelion yellow crème - plus the new Julep DD Creme. I'm a huge fan of Julep and look forward to getting my box each month. The colors are always great and they always include thoughtful little extras. Trust me, you'll love it.

For current Mavens, the window to buy the Boho Glam box closes May 24th, so don't wait to take advantage of this deal! Also please note that if you sign up for the subscription, you will be billed monthly (unless you choose to skip or cancel) so please just be aware of that.

If you miss out on the June Maven box, don't worry, "Dianna" will be available for purchase individually later next month - I'll keep you posted.

*(Just to note this code will be active until June 30th)

It's Back! J.Crew-Inspired Beaded Rose Necklaces On Sale Now at Groopdealz.com

Groopdealz rose necklace

Groopdealz.com is quickly becoming one of my favorite spots to score a stylish bargain. This daily deals e-tailer offers up a bunch of fun items each day ranging from apparel to home decor. And one of today's deals is something we've been stalking for months, a statement-making beaded rose necklace that looks nearly identical to a necklace sold by J.Crew for $128. The only difference (as far as we can tell) is the price! Groopdealz.com is selling this beauty for just $14.99.

Here's a look at the original J.Crew necklace as seen on the official J.Crew Tumblr:

J.Crew beaded rose necklace


Fans of the rose beaded necklace look include bloggers such as Love Lucy Girl, Found In My Closet, and Just Patience.

Bloggers love the J.Crew rose statement necklace look


Click the image below or head to Groopdealz.com to shop the look-a-like rosette necklace, available in 6 fab colors. These deals tend to run out and only last one day at a time, so don't delay if you love this look!

J.Crew beaded rose necklace knockoff / $14.99

Ask BB: Chic & Cheap Chevron Maxi Dresses for All Figures


Celebs rocking the maxi dress trend

I keep seeing all of these adorable chevron maxi dresses on Pinterest and in local boutiques. The problem is I'm 5'11" and I can never find cute maxis that are long enough for me. I have found them before at Old Navy but they are boring and plain colors. I don’t like the ankle look and want one that will touch the ground. Please help! —D.D.

It's funny you should ask this question because just yesterday a reader on Twitter asked me where to find maxi dresses for women on the shorter side! (My reply: You'll most likely have to hem your dress to fit your height.) So let's see if we can find some chevron maxi dress options for every height and figure.

{Shown above from left: Tall celebs Khloe Kardashian (5'10") and Alessandra Ambrosio (5'10") rock the maxi dress trend; Olivia Wilde toughens up a chevron maxi dress with a leather jacket and sneaks.}

Save on Celebrity Faves Like Tibi and Jack Rogers Today at RueLaLa.com

Deal du Jour

Three brands on sale today at RueLaLa.com caught my eye because they're all celebrity favorites, from Tibi (favored by Olivia Palermo), to Jack Rogers (famously worn by Jackie O.) to House of Harlow 1960 (designed and worn by Nicole Richie). Take your style cues from these trendsetting ladies, then shop the savings like a thrifty fashionista - happening now at RueLaLa.com.

My top picks:
1. Tibi Deep Coral Ponte Sleeveless Dress, $149.90 (down from $350)
2. House Of Harlow 1960 14K Plated & Silver Plated Necklace (featured in The Jewelry Box sale), $99.90 (down from $225)
3. Jack Rogers "Glitter Navajo" Leather Sandal, $79.90 (down from $138)