The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

The Look for Less: Eduardo Garza Coral Pedestal Sculptures

Artist Eduardo Garza creates stunning decorative sculptures from coral and gold pedestals which sell for around $600 to $1,500 each. I first learned about his work from …love Maegan, who did an amazing DIY version of Garza's creations (here).





While browsing Kohls.com, I came across these ELLE Decor coral on pedestal sculptures ($29.99, down from $50), and was instantly reminded of love Maegan's tutorial! You could keep these black or spray paint gold, silver, whatever you want.



I always seem to find at least one or two chic items in the ELLE Decor line at Kohl's, it's a random source of budget-friendly accessories for the home. I've purchased two marble top end tables and a white ceramic owl statue thing from the line and love them all. Am I the only one or have you shopped ELLE Decor for Kohl's too?

Lunch Hour Shopping: French Connection, Happy Socks and More at Gilt




Starting at 12 noon ET on Gilt Groupe, you'll have the chance to shop marked-down dresses, tops and more by French Connection - many pieces are under $50. Pippa Middleton's a fan of this chic contemporary brand. Also on Gilt, find colorful socks for less from Happy Socks. This brand has come a long way in such a short period of time! I remember doing a giveaway with them when they were just starting out. Ah, the memories.

Shop it online:
French Connection and Happy Socks Sales at Gilt Groupe

Missoni for Target in Vogue




The August 2011 issue of Vogue magazine offers a delicious sneak peek at the upcoming Missoni for Target collaboration, which hits stores September 13th. I got the chance to scope out the 400+ piece collection at a press preview back in May and let me tell you, it is all that and a bag of chips.

I am dying to reveal more but in the meantime, feast your eyes on Margherita Missoni wearing a Target for Missoni skirt ($40) and sweater ($45), plus a couple items from the line decorating her new home including a rug ($30), bike ($400), trays ($20-$25) and ceramic canisters ($20). Notice how they blend in oh-so-seamlessly. Everything about this collection stays true to Missoni - except for the price. Huge thanks to a dear reader by the name of Phaedra for giving us all the heads up about the Vogue spread!

Click through for more images. Are you looking forward to this collab?

Ask BB: Wedding Guest Etiquette for Cocktail Attire

I am attending a wedding in September. They request "cocktail" attire. I am having a tough time 1) figuring out how "formal" cocktail attire is, and 2) finding something affordable. Her bridesmaids dresses are from The Limited. Any suggestions? —Wendy S.

Cocktail attire for a wedding typically means a chic dress and heels for ladies and tie-optional-suit for gents. A pretty blouse and skirt can work, too, but I find that wearing a dress is so much simpler. Look for something knee length or even slightly shorter. I'd start my search by hitting the sale racks at a store like J. Crew or your favorite department store. You could even try The Limited, they have an amazing selection of dresses under $100 (it goes without saying but just make sure you don't buy the exact same style/color as the bridesmaids!) One of my secret weapons is Talbots Outlet - yes, Talbots will surprise you with classic pieces you can personalize with your favorite jewelry and fun shoes. If you're comfortable shopping online, you'll find dozens more options everywhere from Target.com to ModCloth.com.

A picture is worth a thousand words, so here are some perfect cocktail dress options under $100.

1. With it's clean, graceful lines and rich gemstone hue, J. Crew's "Avedine" dress is quintessential cocktail chic. Pair it with slingback heels, a pretty necklace and a clutch for a pulled together ladylike look. ($69.99, down from $225)


Fashion for A Cause: Olsenboye Pennies from Heaven Coin Purse




JCPenney just launched Pennies from Heaven, an inspiring new philanthropic initiative to support afterschool programs. Olsenboye for JCPenney designers Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen are lending their support to the initiative by releasing a limited edition change purse available exclusively at jcp.com and select stores. Each purse sells for $9.99 and 100 percent of the sale proceeds will be donated to the Pennies from Heaven campaign. Visit jcpenneyafterschool.org for details.

Shop it online:
Olsenboye Limited Edition Pennies from Heaven Coin Purse