The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: Tall Platform Stiletto Boots on a Budget




I am looking for a pair of black knee high leather boots that are firm leather and won't slouch around the ankle or crease around the leg when I walk. The celebrity styles I'm going for are Mary Kate and Ashely Olsen. ... [I] would be able to purchase a pair of boots for under 150 dollars. Is there any way that you could help me find a firm leather boot for that price? I would like something under 4 inches in height if possible. —Christina

Ashley's boots are most likely Christian Louboutin, and retail anywhere from $1,200-$1,500 (exact price unknown). I found a similar looking pair in genuine leather by Jessica Simpson for $198 online - you might be able to find a similar style for less at DSW, TJ Maxx or Marshall's. This was the closest match I could find, it's the right height, no slouch, slight platform, almost toe and stiletto heel. Since this is such a sexy shoe, pair it with something cool and covered on top as Ashley has done. Click the image to shop.



Jessica Simpson at ShopStyle



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Mossimo for Target Fall 2011 Lookbook


Although many of us are still upset with Tar-jay for the Missoni snafu (see Missonipocalyse: Target's Epic Fail), let's try to put those feelings aside for a moment and take a gander at the Mossimo Fall 2011 lookbook. On my last trip into the store I noticed that some shoppers were actually confusing the two brands ("There's still plenty of Mossimo left!" "No, that's Mossimo, we're looking for Missoni.") But I digress. The fall 2011 Mossimo for Target collection features rich tones, such as dark berry, olives and deep blues, which are accented with soft florals and classic stripes. Draped necklines, peasant tops and flare pants make their way back into wardrobes this fall. Click through to see all the looks, which I'm inclined to say are more wearable than a lot of the Missoni pieces anyways. Mouse over any image for details on pricing and availability.

Beauty Review: Foot Petals Shoe Inserts


Back in 2007, my sister Chantal discovered Foot Petals shoe inserts and loved them so much, she wrote a review for my then fledgling blog (here). She was really impressed with the product design, functionality and price, so why is it that I had never tried these out myself until just this past week? Beats me! Keep reading for my review (hint: I should have listened to my little sis looong ago!)

Badgley Mischka Spring 2012 Nail Looks with Deborah Lippmann


One of my most exciting stops this Fashion Week was backstage at Badgley Mischka, where the Deborah Lippmann team was hard at work creating the glamorous nail looks for the Spring 2012 runway show. I spoke with Jude Severin, president of Deborah Lippmann (and Deborah's hubby!), about the inspiration for the collection and the polish itself.

Missonipocalypse: Target's Epic Fail




If you follow my tweets, you may have noticed that I was in New York yesterday for Fashion Week and therefore unable to make it to a Target store for the Missoni launch. I had to catch a 6:30 am train to make it to my 9:00 am backstage appointment at Badgley Mischka. Sorry, but I wasn't about to skip an opportunity that I've worked so hard to get just to shop at Target, Missoni or not.

UPDATE: "Missoni for Target: Redemption Island"