The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Deal du Jour at Hautelook: Joe's Jeans Starting at $69




There's a crazy sale on Joe's jeans and apparel going on right now at Hautelook. One of my friends has raved about her Joe's jeans for years so I finally bit the bullet and ordered a pair for $79 (down from $178). We shall see if they are as amazing as she's claimed they are! There are also some cute jackets, dresses, tanks and tees, but I think the jeans are the best value. Compare prices with the ShopStyle widget below before you make a purchase to make sure you're getting the best deal.

Click here to get your invite to Hautelook.com now.

Foley + Corinna Fall 2010 Handbag Collection Preview

Foley + Corinna Fall 2010 Handbag Collection Preview

Last week I was invited to preview the Foley + Corinna Fall 2010 Handbag Collection in New York City. I jumped on the opportunity to see what's in store for this luxe handbag brand because, despite the fact that Foley + Corinna is not "budget", I've been a huge fan of their signature Mid-City Tote for years and someday hope to own one of my own. Le sigh. As you'll see from my pics, the Fall 2010 collection takes a dark turn as classic silhouettes are reinterpreted to include details like slashed leather and edgy metal hardware like chains, buckles and studs. The color palette was predominantly black save for a few faux snakeskin prints in beige or silver metallic. If you love seeing their bags in bright colors like magenta, red or camel, snag one in stores like Bloomingdale's or shopbop.com now because these colors will be sparse come fall. Prices range from about $200 to $550. Keep reading to see the complete collection!

The Look for Less: Franco Sarto Perforated Leather Wedges




Franco Sarto at ShopStyle


Now on sale for $69.99, these Franco Sarto "Grape" perforated leather wedges are nearly sold out at lordandtaylor.com. A stylish yet comfy shoe that will go great with shorts or skirts this summer.


Get the look for less with these Merona Maribel Peep-Toe Wedge Shoes, available in tan, pale blue, lavender or black for $23.99 on sale at target.com. Check out this earlier post to see what the Maribel looks like in real life.

Modern Retro: SWATCH Launches Colour Codes Collection


Modern Retro: SWATCH Launches Colour Codes Collection

Swiss brand Swatch is getting in touch with their roots for their latest collection of 10 plastic watches, each in one solid color, called the Colour Codes Collection. I'll admit I have a soft spot for Swatch—after all, they're the original plastic watch brand, known for their funky designs, affordable prices and reliability, but I haven't owned one in ages. Back in the day I had a Swatch that commemorated the Summer Olympics and another that was hot orange and looked like a parking ticket. Random. Anyways, watches in the Colour Codes collection cost $50 and you can get details here.

Do you think Swatch watches are still cool, or making a comeback?

Best Bets at Rue La La This Week: Hunter Boots, Bare Escentuals, A.B.S.




This week, Rue La La is serving up mineral makeup from Bare Escentuals (going on now), Hunter Boots and fashions by A.B.S. Why are these my top picks? First, Bare Escentuals is everyone's favorite mineral makeup. It's the original brand known to help clear up problem skin and give a flawless finish.

Second, Hunter Boots are an all-season must-have to keep you stylish and dry in yucky weather. Many of you have emailed me to ask where/when you can score these covetable boots for less, so don't say I didn't warn you! This sale starts at 11am ET on April 1 so mark your calendars!!

UPDATE: The Hunter sale date is up in the air. I'll keep you posted as to when it's really going to happen.


Finally, I know many of you are shopping for prom dresses or special occasion dresses to wear to graduations, weddings and all that good stuff. If you are, don't miss the sale from A.B.S., a brand known for great party dresses. Sale starts at 11am on April 2.

New to the whole online limited-time, invite-only designer sale thing? Here are some tips for shopping smart:


  • The deals are for real, but that doesn't mean you should go crazy and buy things you don't love or need (or can't afford). Think about the things you really can't live without (premium denim, classic leather handbag, a fab trench) and make those a priority.

  • Plan ahead by trying these items on in stores so you know your size and your pricepoints. Then, keep track of when sales are happening via email updates (some let you add events to Google Calendar).

  • On the day of a sale you've been stalking happens, have your browser open and ready the second the sale starts. Scan the items quickly and see if your must-have is included in the sale. If it is, don't hesitate to buy. Items sell out fast.

  • If you DO NOT see your must-have, close your browser and carry on with your day. There will always be another sale, so don't waste time and money on mediocre purchases.


Need a working invitation to RueLaLa.com? Click here to get your invite.