The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

10 Affordable Ways to Update an LBD for Holiday Parties

If you're looking for ways to get dolled up for the holidays while sticking to your budget, here are 10 inexpensive ways to spice up that little black dress you already own, and make it fresh and fun for 2009.

1. Nothing says party time like a shimmering pair of glittery heels. Slip into these Glitter Pumps from Charlotte Russe and all eyes will be on your feet. ($24.99, charlotterusse.com)



2. Regardless of whether or not you love faux fur, donning this fur vest over a little black dress will make you the proverbial life of the party. Everyone will want to pet you! You know what I mean. ($38, threadandcommon.com)



3. Add a big, bold shiny statement necklace to a plain LBD and friends will flock to compliment you like magpies drawn to shiny things. Bling, bling! ($24, threadandcommon.com)



4. A festive sequin shrug adds just a hint of shine to a plain LBD. Get more mileage out of strapless styles with the added coverage afforded by a shrug, too. ($29.80, forever21.com)



5. A cropped jewel-neck cardigan in a soft winter-white will liven up last year's LBD while keeping you warm. (sale $49.50, express.com)



6. Give your favorite LBD a facelift with an eye-catching, figure flattering belt. This unique gold cheetah belt is definitely a showstopper. ($11, lulus.com)



7. Not for the faint of heart, the Deena & Ozzy Spotted Cocktail Hat promises to dazzle onlookers with it's unapologetic sartorial insouciance. Too much? Try an embellished headband instead. ($34, urbanoutfitters.com)



8. Dress up your gams with these lace tights by Betsey Johnson. Patterned tights are a sexy, simple recipe for instant holiday glam on a budget. ($20, nordstrom.com)



9. Show up to a party wearing these edgy fingerless gloves, and I guarantee you'll get noticed. The fact that you're wearing the same LBD to every fete won't matter whatsoever. ($39, bebe.com)



10. Transform everything from simple frocks to a t-shirt and jeans this holiday season with a standout sequin jacket, like this one from BB Dakota. Looking fabulous couldn't be easier. ($83, boutiquetoyou.com)

Sonia Rykiel pour H&M Collection

Sonia Rykiel pour H&M Collection

Last night, models and celebrities gathered in Paris to celebrate the launch of Sonia Rykiel pour H&M. The Grand Palais, one of the city’s most famous buildings, was transformed into a Parisian fantasy land for around 2,000 guests, who were given a preview of the Sonia Rykiel pour H&M lingerie collection, which debuts in around 1,500 H&M stores worldwide from December 5, as well as the knitwear collection for women and girls, which arrives in around 200 stores on February 20, 2010.

Rather than tease you with footage from the launch party, keep reading to see 21 looks from the collection that you purchase for yourself. I think I know what I'll be treating myself to this Christmas! While I wasn't impressed with the ad campaigns, seeing these individual pieces has me excited. There are some truly beautiful items, like the silk kimono and satin bustier, and the prices are just right. Will you be shopping this collection?

The Budget Babe on MyFoxDetroit Fox 2 News WJBK





On Cyber Monday, I was interviewed by MyFoxDetroit Fox 2 News WJBK via satellite from New York City to share advice on getting the best online deals for the holidays. Mind you, I had never been in front of a camera before that morning (when I actually ended up recording a whole slew of radio and TV interviews all in one shot—more on that later). To say I was nervous would be an understatement, but everyone I worked with was so professional and kind, it really put my mind at ease and allowed me to focus on my message and, dare I say, have fun. Thank you, Fox Detroit!