The Budget Fashionista

What: Abaete Runway Show, The Salon at Bryant Park, New York Fashion Week Spring 09

The Lowdown: Abaete brought some sun back into our hurricane-soaked lives, parading bright yellows and periwinkle blues down the catwalk.  There’s definitely a breezy element to this collection that makes it oh so fun, with playful touches like sheer colorful stockings and geometric piecework.  The cuts are body-conscious, with near-sheath dresses, corset-like tops, and tight boning taking center stage.  But every look was accented by a softer element, whether it be muted color or a flouncy full skirt.  This one is all about balance – let your bad girl out, and your good girl will keep her in line.

Budget Solution: The best part about Abaete is that we can all easily score a pair of their shoes at the local Payless – this marks the 11th season of this designer-budget partnership.  Aside from the shoes, we’re feeling the sexy-sweet vibe.  It reminds us to show ourselves off without giving it all away (although we could do without the knee length leggings - we called those biker shorts in the 80s, and some things went out of style for a reason).  How to stock up for next summer?  Pick up a muted Victoria’s Secret corset at the next semi-annual sale, pair it with a loose yellow skirt, and of course, Abaete’s sky-high Payless heels.

image courtesy of Coutorture.com