The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

6 Under $60: Fair Isle Sweaters

6 Under $60: Fair Isle Sweaters

Another perennial winter fashion favorite of mine is the Fair Isle sweater, that Nordic-style knit which conjures up images of Aspen lodges and hot toddies sipped on bearskin rugs before crackling fires. Pair yours with leggings, edgy boots and simple silver jewelry (like Hilary Duff) to balance proportions and keep your look modern. Keep reading for 6 super affordable Fair Isle-inspired sweaters under $60. Which would you wear?

Fresh New Takes on Tweed for Fall

There's something about tweed—a thick woolen fabric which originated in Scotland (thank you Wikipedia)—that makes one think of wintertime.

This cozy fabric with a classic menswear appeal looks chic, not stuffy, when juxtaposed against anything really feminine (think Chanel's iconic tweed jacket worn with pearls).

Stylehive has a round up of some decidedly modern, on-trend tweed fashions and accessories that are calling my name. See their slideshow here, and check out my tweed fashion-finds below for further inspiration!

The Look for Less: Alice + Olivia Sequin Leggings



Alice + Olivia at ShopStyle


Looking for something unique to wear to all your holiday parties? Try these Alice + Olivia Sequin Leggings, $298 at shopbop.com. Paired with a simple top and sharp blazer, this modern combo will provide all the glitz and glam you need to stand out from the crowd.



Forever 21 at ShopStyle


Of course, this look can be had on a budget (and you won't have to worry about losing sequins as the night wears on). I saw these sequin leggings at my Forever 21 store not too long ago and thought they looked fabulous. Well, fab as far as sequin leggings go! Get yours for just $17.80 forever21.com.

Would you wear this look?

Riding Boots on a Budget: DSW Shoe Warehouse



Madden-Girl at ShopStyle


I know many of you are on the hunt for the perfect pair of black riding boots, and with good reason: This classic style of boot with equestrian roots looks good on most every modern gal. You can pair these babies with everything from skinny jeans to skirts and take your look from day to night—all while keeping your feet warm and pain-free! A quality leather pair will last for years with a little TLC (store them with rolled up magazines in the shaft to keep the shape, and polish once or twice a season to protect the leather and help it keep its color and shine.) But there are some equally great synthetic options, too, if you prefer. Shop for affordable riding boots at your nearest Nine West Outlet store (many styles are under $100, and that's where I scored mine last season) or DSW Shoe Warehouse—which launched an online store earlier this year that's been blowing me away with their great deals and selection. Browse some of the best budget-friendly riding boots available at DSW.com using the widget below. Your perfect pair might just be a click away!


Nothing to Wear Series: Foolproof Fall Outfit #4

At the start of the season, youlookfab.com posted 10 foolproof outfit formulas for girls on the go, and I've been recreating each style recipe using budget-friendly items to help you get these looks for yourself. With formulas #1, #2, and #3 behind us, it's on to #4. Oh, and there's a spin! Each look consists entirely of items from the ever-affordable Target.com.

Jeans + tunic sweater + leather or pleather jacket + ankle boots








As you can see, you can modify the formula by using longer shirts or blouses and swapping fashion sneaks or other comfy shoes for the ankle boots. The possibilities are endless. For more inspiration, check out Angie's ideas here.