The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Retail Bootcamp: Shop Like A Stylist


Some of you may recall me tweeting about a top secret video project a couple months ago, and now I'm excited to finally be able to share what I've been working on! It's called Retail Bootcamp, and it's my new shopping show on the just-launched Style Coalition TV channel on YouTube.

In the first episode, Retail Bootcamp takes you inside a well-known department store to find out what it really takes to shop like a stylist.

In this ongoing series, I'll be visiting various retailers - from big department stores to local boutiques and sample sales - to share my tips and tricks on how to shop savvy and find fashionable bargains.

Check out more great original shows by my fellow Style Coalition bloggers and subscribe at StyleCoalition.tv.

Comments? Suggestions? Let me know in the comments (please be kind, I'm new at this!)

Rebecca Minkoff Spring 2013

Rebecca Minkoff Spring 2013 Review

For her Spring 2013 collection, Rebecca Minkoff channeled 60s and 70s American photographer Slim Aarons, known for his glamorous shots of socialites, jet-setters and celebrities lounging poolside. What I saw was a cool, down-to-earth girl who's feminine yet prefers the relaxed feel of tomboy-inspired pieces. A mix of saturated and faded hues played out on things like a tropical print track jacket, embroidered bell bottoms and sunset-print moto jacket. My favorites pieces were more predictable but no less lust-worthy, like a fitted pink plaid blazer (which I believe already sold out on Shopbop.com) and a tweed shorts suit. I know it was a spring collection but I can't help but wonder if motherhood has softened Minkoff just a touch. Either way, I'm loving it.

Tracy Reese Spring 2013




It's been an exciting time for Tracy Reese who recently had one of her designs put in the spotlight by Michelle Obama at the Democratic National Convention. And Tracy's Spring 2013 runway show was filled with more ebullient pieces that our fashionable First Lady would no doubt like to wear. Inspired by David Hockney's landscapes, the collection played with organic and technical elements in a palette of foliage greens, cool blues, warm ochre, tangerine and crimson. The sporty jackets over feminine separates felt so effortless and fresh. Lush beading - especially on some wide leg pants - felt just wild enough to grab your attention but soft enough to be totally wearable. On my spring wish list thanks to Tracy are cool shifts, wide collar blazers and fringe-embellished sandals.

The Look for Less: Valentino 'Rockstud' T-Strap Heels

The 'Rockstud' by Valentino in black with pewter studs is $995 at forwardforward.com. I spotted the 'Rockstud' on quite a few pairs of stylish feet during New York Fashion Week.



Looking to get the look for less? Try these Lola Cruz heels instead, available in gray or rust for $125.



Fab Find: Jennifer Lopez for Kohl's Leatherette Motorcycle Jacket




Back in May when I attended the Kohl's fall fashion press preview, one piece in particular really stood out on the racks. I made a mental note of the Jennifer Lopez faux-leather motorcycle jacket, and now I plan to make it mine! This jacket looks amazing for the price. The flyaway collar and faux-shearling lining gives it a luxe Rick Owens vibe (here). Wear it with jeans and a sweater or over a maxi dress with boots. The possibilities are endless. It's available in black or oxblood red, totally on trend for fall, and both versions are on sale for less than $70.

Update: Save an extra 20% with code FALLINLEAF when you shop online at kohls.com. (Ends 9/19)