The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

First Look: Matthew Williamson for Impulse Only at Macy's




As mentioned in my weekly link round-up two weeks ago, Matthew Williamson will be the next featured designer for Impulse at Macy's, following in the footsteps of Kinder Aggugini. The Matthew Williamson capsule collection will illustrate a "bohemian mood full of color and print that is irresistible to the eye." Staying true to Matthew's signature style, the line fuses sophisticated separates and collectible '70s-inspired dresses priced on average from $50 to $120, with specialty pieces selling up to $300. Key items will include bold, graphic animal-inspired prints and embellished day and party dresses, bohemian blouses, printed scarves and flirty day-to-evening rompers, all with Matthew's iconic styling. With a delicate balance of both modern and retro design, this collection and corresponding advertising campaign featuring model Dree Hemingway embodies Matthew's attitude toward fashion and life. I loved the Matthew Williamson collection for H&M but felt quality was lacking so I can't wait to see what he does for Macy's. The preliminary sketches and photos are exciting and show real potential.

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Kmart Fashion Spring/Summer 2011 Blogger Brunch




Last week I attended a Spring/Summer 2011 fashion preview in New York City hosted by Kmart Fashion, where bloggers were invited to check out the latest trends and chat with designers. I interviewed Kathy Huynh, VP of Women's Apparel Design for Kmart, (click here to watch), got the scoop on the design process from Tori Gibbs and Mary Mendez, and talked social media with Kmart Fashion blogger Donna Kim and Kmart Fashion's Social Media Manager Sarah Reynolds (above). When the people behind a brand are excited about their work and eager to share with customers, it makes such a positive impact, and that's exactly how I felt about the Kmart crew.

Now, on to the fashion: Everything was casual and easy to wear, with subtle boho '70s details and soft fabrications. Think short shorts, jumpsuits, open-back tees, colorful day dresses, floral prints and understated military influences. Priced mostly under $20, Kmart Fashion's got all the makings of a carefree summer wardrobe that can take you from picnics in the park to the beach and beyond. I can't wait to check out my nearest store. It's a 30 minute drive, so I don't get there very often, but I'm hoping to visit soon. Have you been to Kmart recently? Do you like the direction they're headed?

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Shown above: The gorgeous girl behind @KmartFashion, Sarah Reynolds, wearing a Kmart jumpsuit.

Off the Rack: LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's March Highlights




On Friday, I scouted out the spring offerings from the LC Lauren Conrad collection at my local Kohl's, and once again, I found myself falling under LC's spell. With names like Coastal Bohemia, Shabby Chic and High Tea describing each set of looks, the LC Lauren Conrad for Kohl's collection is unapologetically girly. Feminine details, florals and vintage-inspired styling create a casual ladylike look. The palette of nature-inspired shades like teal blues, sweet blushes, soft lemon yellows and earthy ivory felt effortless and easy-to-wear.

There were lots of lightweight cardigans, pretty blouses and skinny jeans that you could mix and match for everyday wear. Standouts for me included a crochet-trim blouse (sale $34.99), supersoft navy twill leggings (sale $24.99), and two of the most adorable dresses ever (sale $41.99 each). I just wanted to run through a field of tall grass with a red balloon or something, wearing those dresses. Like I said, I was under her spell. Then I snapped out of my reverie and left empty-handed. As much as I loved everything in the moment, I didn't particularly need anything. If I'm still pining for that dusty rose dress tomorrow, I'll go back for it.

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The Look for Less: Chan Luu Turquoise Wrap Bracelet

Chan Luu's turquoise and sterling silver bead bracelet is $210 at Net-a-porter.com.



During a trip to Kohl's this past Friday, I purchased this genuine turquoise wrap bracelet for just $20 (down from $60) - and I totally think it looks like Chan Luu. I couldn't find this item online but you'll find them in stores in the jewelry department. Make sure to get yours on sale, Kohl's has crazy markdowns so you never have to pay full price. Visit Kohls.com for store locations.




Off the Rack: Leather Wrap Bracelets, Stackable Rings at Target




An inexpensive way to update your spring look is with a few new pieces of jewelry, and Target has some amazing options under $20. Think layered wrap bracelets, a boho statement ring or a mod white watch. My heart skipped a beat when I saw the shiny assortment of new wrap bracelets at my local store, ranging in price from $14.99 to $18.99 each. Rather than being all-out edgy, the latest crop of bracelets are chic designer-inspired pieces that remind me of accessories by Burberry, Tory Burch and CC Skye. Other highlights included some delicate stackable rings and a charm necklace that looked a lot like Alex and Ani. If you're planning a trip to Target this weekend, stop by the jewelry section and let me know what you like.

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