Catherine Brock

Catherine Brock is a financial analyst-turned-writer who loves fashion, food, and horses. And her husband and two kids. And money, which pays for all the above. She began wearing clothes at a young age, so those fashion credentials run deep. She's skilled at layering, avoiding navy-and-blue outfit combos, and shopping for bargains. Mostly, Brock is very opinionated about being stylish without overspending. Those opinions have earned her placements on the BBC News, USA Today, MSN Money, Fox2 St. Louis, ABC7 Chicago, CBS2 Los Angeles, WGN Chicago, WCPO Cincinnati…read more.

Jumpsuits for Women Over 50: How to Look Stylish

Sure, jumpsuits for women may conjure up images of dodgy 80s pop stars, but the… Read More »Jumpsuits for Women Over 50: How to Look Stylish

How to Buy Melissa McCarthy Seven7 Clothes

Sadly, the Melissa McCarthy Seven7 collection is no longer in production. You can find McCarthy… Read More »How to Buy Melissa McCarthy Seven7 Clothes

How to Wear a Leather Skirt in Summer

Leather is not generally the material most women envision when thinking about summer appeal. After all, animal… Read More »How to Wear a Leather Skirt in Summer

Family Dollar Fashion: New Line for Women

Have you heard about Family Dollar’s new line of women’s fashion? Yep, Family Dollar —… Read More »Family Dollar Fashion: New Line for Women

Product Review: RoC SMOOTH PERFEXION (Sponsored)

Ladies, I am a RoC Ambassador, which means I am compensated to try RoC products… Read More »Product Review: RoC SMOOTH PERFEXION (Sponsored)

Fashion Boutiques On-the-Go: How to Shop a Fashion Truck

The fashion truck brings personalized service and unique garments to an event near you. Here are 5 ways to maximize your mobile boutique shopping experience.

Spa Experience at Home: Luxury Shower Head from Aroma Sense

Readers, Aroma Sense sent us a luxury shower head for free and asked us to… Read More »Spa Experience at Home: Luxury Shower Head from Aroma Sense

Women Over 40: Real Beauty Guide (Sponsored)

Readers, I am a RoC Skincare Ambassador. This means RoC provides me with free product… Read More »Women Over 40: Real Beauty Guide (Sponsored)

Women Over 40: Best Places to Shop for Clothes

There’s a story behind this post. It was originally written back in 2015 by a… Read More »Women Over 40: Best Places to Shop for Clothes

Budget Accessory Spotlight: Freshwater Pearls

Readers: PearlsOnly sent us this pendant free of charge. We do not guarantee product reviews,… Read More »Budget Accessory Spotlight: Freshwater Pearls

Looking for the Fashion Forum?

Ladies, the Budget Fashionista Fashion Forum has been put to rest. We do still love… Read More »Looking for the Fashion Forum?

How to Find Fall Fashion Trends

Fall is the time when shoppers tend to turn their thoughts from summer easy casual… Read More »How to Find Fall Fashion Trends

Jennifer Aniston Style Deconstructed

With her American classic style, it’s no wonder that Jennifer Aniston is America’s sweetheart. No… Read More »Jennifer Aniston Style Deconstructed

How to Wear a Plus Size Bikini

One of this season’s hottest trends is the plus size bikini. While there’s been much… Read More »How to Wear a Plus Size Bikini

Fresh vegetables inside reusable grocery bag.

Cute Reusable Grocery Bags for Shopping in Style

Cute reusable grocery bags. They’re a must-have in cities that have outlawed free plastic bags,… Read More »Cute Reusable Grocery Bags for Shopping in Style

Five Fashion Rules You Should Break

Do you know what we have to say about not wearing white pants after Labor… Read More »Five Fashion Rules You Should Break

Fashionable Footwear: The Best Shoes for Bunion Sufferers

Bunions are the worst. See our favorite picks re: shoes for bunions — 6 pairs of stylish footwear that won’t have you cringing in pain.

Fashion Advice: Sample Sales vs. Warehouse Sales

Dear Budget Fashionista, I am just starting to frequent sample sales, however the merchandise at… Read More »Fashion Advice: Sample Sales vs. Warehouse Sales

The History of Budget Fashion: Forever 21

The History of Budget Fashion is a series of articles that explores the evolution of… Read More »The History of Budget Fashion: Forever 21

6 Ways to Recycle a Bridesmaid Dress

You’re wondering how to recycle a bridesmaid dress because you have too many silk taffeta… Read More »6 Ways to Recycle a Bridesmaid Dress

Why I Love Sally’s Boutique: My Ode to Salvation Army

This repost originally appeared on the site in November, 2004 Smitten . . . Along… Read More »Why I Love Sally’s Boutique: My Ode to Salvation Army

When Liz Clairborne Ruled the World: History of Budget Fashion

Back in the day (like 1988) Liz Claiborne was “dabomb.com”. The brand, founded in 1976,… Read More »When Liz Clairborne Ruled the World: History of Budget Fashion

Forever21’s Magic Mirrors: Sorry You Really Don’t Look Hot in That Sequined Mini Skirt

A Very Sad Fact: Forever21 (and other stores) trick you into thinking you look hotter… Read More »Forever21’s Magic Mirrors: Sorry You Really Don’t Look Hot in That Sequined Mini Skirt

Updated! Six Great Swimsuits for Older Women

Of the many things forced upon women as we get older, is this belief that… Read More »Updated! Six Great Swimsuits for Older Women

The Best Swimsuit Brands on a Budget

What’s more terrifying than trying on swimsuits surrounded by mirrors in fluorescent lights? Paying a… Read More »The Best Swimsuit Brands on a Budget

Fashion Advice: What to Wear to a New York Wedding

Dear Budget Fashionista, I need help! I live in south Florida and I will be… Read More »Fashion Advice: What to Wear to a New York Wedding

Petite woman wearing maxi dress on beach.

The Maxi Dress for Petite Ladies: 5 Simple Rules

Maxi dress for petite ladies? Short ladies have certain fashion challenges, and one of those… Read More »The Maxi Dress for Petite Ladies: 5 Simple Rules

best color for your skin tone: dark skinned models wearing colorful dresses

The Best Color for Your Skin Tone: Quick Guide

While summer is all about color (from pastel pinks to neon green), it can be… Read More »The Best Color for Your Skin Tone: Quick Guide

Woman wearing distressed plus size jeans

Our Picks for the Best Plus-Size Jeans

Many types of garments don’t provide enough plus-size options. But we can’t really say the… Read More »Our Picks for the Best Plus-Size Jeans

Updated! Best Bras: Post Baby Support

It’s a fact of life: after a baby, your body changes. Some parts will be… Read More »Updated! Best Bras: Post Baby Support

Fashionable plus size woman wearing sunglasses and hat outside.

10 Ride or Die Plus Size Fashion Tips

The nature of my plus size fashion tips have evolved over the years. There was… Read More »10 Ride or Die Plus Size Fashion Tips

What To Wear To A Winter Wedding

Figuring out what to wear to a winter wedding can be tricky. It’s too cold… Read More »What To Wear To A Winter Wedding

Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Which is Better?

Costco or Sam’s Club? Often, the choice between the two warehouses comes down to location.… Read More »Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Which is Better?

H&M Times Square Store Opens, Stars Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga may have set her eyes on performing in space, but for this week… Read More »H&M Times Square Store Opens, Stars Lady Gaga

It’s Here! The Target Holiday Lookbook 2013

You better not pout, we’re telling you why: Target Holiday Lookbook 2013 is here, and… Read More »It’s Here! The Target Holiday Lookbook 2013

The Best Women’s Suit Styles on a Budget

While navigating office-appropriate attire can be confusing, there’s one sure-thing: a suit always looks professional… Read More »The Best Women’s Suit Styles on a Budget

Looking for Cheap Jeans? Check out Our Picks

As soon as the word “premium” started to pop up in the denim category, prices… Read More »Looking for Cheap Jeans? Check out Our Picks

elunes-moscato-date-night-in-on-budget-2

5 Fall Date Night-In Ideas on a Budget

It’s that time of year when local coffee shops start rolling out their pumpkin chai… Read More »5 Fall Date Night-In Ideas on a Budget

What To Wear To A Fall Wedding

We know that choosing what to wear to a fall wedding can be a frustrating… Read More »What To Wear To A Fall Wedding

Updated! 6 Popular Eye Creams Under $15

When I turned 18, one of the best beauty secrets I ever received was that… Read More »Updated! 6 Popular Eye Creams Under $15

How to Remove Scuff Marks from Patent Leather Shoes

Dear Budget Fashionista, How does one remove scuff marks from patent leather shoes? I have… Read More »How to Remove Scuff Marks from Patent Leather Shoes

Two women smell body mist fragrances with their eyes closed.

Perfect Scents: 11 Fall Body Mists to Try This Year

Much as I like summer, I looove fall. See, I like to wear body mists. The… Read More »Perfect Scents: 11 Fall Body Mists to Try This Year

H&M Online Shop Finally Opens in the US

The long wait is over– Hennes & Mauritz, a.k.a. H&M has finally opened the doors… Read More »H&M Online Shop Finally Opens in the US

Woman shopping online at wide shoes stores.

Wide Shoe Stores: 9 Best Places to Shop Wide Shoes

A reader asks: I love shoes! But I need direction on wide shoe stores. I… Read More »Wide Shoe Stores: 9 Best Places to Shop Wide Shoes

Are Flip Flops Dangerous? Here’s What an NY Podiatrist Has to Say

What: The Huffington Post published an infograph last weekend detailing the many horrifying ways that… Read More »Are Flip Flops Dangerous? Here’s What an NY Podiatrist Has to Say

How to Shop TJ Maxx

For some shoppers, off-price stores like TJ Maxx are a mecca of bargains, with hidden… Read More »How to Shop TJ Maxx

$4 Undies and More at the Forever 21 Semi-Annual Lingerie and Beauty Sale

Did you know that women nowadays own up to thirty-four pieces of underwear–or as much… Read More »$4 Undies and More at the Forever 21 Semi-Annual Lingerie and Beauty Sale

Where to Find Plus Size Tights

Dear Budget Fashionista: Hi! I’ve just started getting into “fashion” hose and tights in order… Read More »Where to Find Plus Size Tights

Can I Wear Black to a Wedding?

Dear Budget Fashionista, I have a wedding to attend in late June and I found… Read More »Can I Wear Black to a Wedding?

Woman applies moisturizer following best quick beauty tips.

Top 5 Cheap Beauty Products $10 or Less

Busy budget babes: Want to save money and time on your self-care rituals? Over the… Read More »Top 5 Cheap Beauty Products $10 or Less

Stylish woman outside standing in front of airplane.

The 20 Best Budget Fashion Tips of All Time

Everyone, it seems, has an opinion about the dos and don’ts of style. Depending on… Read More »The 20 Best Budget Fashion Tips of All Time

Best Swimsuits for Those With Large Breasts

Yes, we love lying out at the beach and playing in the pool, but even… Read More »Best Swimsuits for Those With Large Breasts

3 Places to Find Cheap Plus Size Wedding Dresses

Q: I am a plus-size bride in dire searching for beautiful cheap plus size wedding dresses.… Read More »3 Places to Find Cheap Plus Size Wedding Dresses

Beauty Icon: Lena Horne

Lena Horne (1917-2010) was a stylish lady, accomplished singer, dancer, actress, civil rights activist and… Read More »Beauty Icon: Lena Horne

Beauty Icon: Billie Holiday

The name Billie Holiday is known by people of every age everywhere and even if… Read More »Beauty Icon: Billie Holiday

Woman measures natural waist with cloth tape.

How to Find Your Natural Waist

Most people think their natural waist is the mid-point of their torso, which isn’t true. If… Read More »How to Find Your Natural Waist

Beauty Icon: Halle Berry

Halle Berry has been a beauty icon for decades, representing African American beauty in modeling… Read More »Beauty Icon: Halle Berry

Style Icon: Dorothy Dandridge

When we think of Black Hollywood of old, Dorothy Dandridge stands out as one of… Read More »Style Icon: Dorothy Dandridge

How to Wear Eyeshadow

Eyeshadow can be a love or hate thing. You’ve either got the skill to brush… Read More »How to Wear Eyeshadow

Summer at The Hamptons? The Banana Republic Milly Collection Makes That Doable (To Some Extent)

We at TBF have a dream. We dream of world peace, the continued growth of… Read More »Summer at The Hamptons? The Banana Republic Milly Collection Makes That Doable (To Some Extent)

White House Black Market Michelle Obama Inaugural Dress 2013

White House | Black Market Reveals Its Inauguration-Inspired Fashion Collection for Non-First Ladies of the Land

“What will Michelle Obama wear?” Some folks complain it’s a sign of times when people… Read More »White House | Black Market Reveals Its Inauguration-Inspired Fashion Collection for Non-First Ladies of the Land

H&M Wants Your Used Garments… In Exchange for Store Vouchers!

Now here’s a brand that deserves its own Good Guy Greg meme. Swedish fashion company… Read More »H&M Wants Your Used Garments… In Exchange for Store Vouchers!

Easy, Quick, All-Natural DIY Facial Recipes

Keeping your complexion moisturized and radiant when the weather is rainy, cold and windy is… Read More »Easy, Quick, All-Natural DIY Facial Recipes

How to Put Together an A+ Teacher Clothes on a Budget

For every teacher, putting together a professional yet stylish teacher’s wardrobe is a big challenge–even more… Read More »How to Put Together an A+ Teacher Clothes on a Budget

A Midsummer Shoenista’s Dream: Sam & Libby for Target in May 2013

Winter has barely set in, and yet we’re already headlining summer season fashion prospects. While… Read More »A Midsummer Shoenista’s Dream: Sam & Libby for Target in May 2013

It’s All in the Family: H&M Unveils “Fashion Family” Capsule Collection

It’s one thing to convince your family to wear “matchy-matchy” outfits in front of the… Read More »It’s All in the Family: H&M Unveils “Fashion Family” Capsule Collection

Color Me Polished: How to Wear Multi-Colored Manicures this Fall

Rich burgundy, steel gray and hunter green are just some of the beautiful tones you… Read More »Color Me Polished: How to Wear Multi-Colored Manicures this Fall

Midwestern Charm: 10 Great Midwest Style Blogs

There’s great fashion on the East and West Coasts, but what about those of us… Read More »Midwestern Charm: 10 Great Midwest Style Blogs

Tips for Finding Great Cashmere Sweaters

The key to finding a great cashmere piece is to understand what makes a good… Read More »Tips for Finding Great Cashmere Sweaters

Woman tries on wedding gown chosen by David's Bridal wedding consultant.

8 Things a David’s Bridal Wedding Consultant Wants You to Know

We’ve all seen an episode or two of Bridezillas. And if you haven’t, grab yourself… Read More »8 Things a David’s Bridal Wedding Consultant Wants You to Know

Two shoppers wearing masks inspect clothes in thrift store.

How to Clean Thrift Store Clothing

There’s nothing I like more than a shopping spree at my local Goodwill or Salvation… Read More »How to Clean Thrift Store Clothing

Hat Trends Every Girl Should Try

Hats are like earrings. They’re made to compliment your look. This season we’ve seen more… Read More »Hat Trends Every Girl Should Try

A Complete Summer Makeover: 3-in-1 Makeup Sticks that are Perfect for Warm Weather Wear

It’s summertime, which means you want your makeup routine to be as easygoing as possible.… Read More »A Complete Summer Makeover: 3-in-1 Makeup Sticks that are Perfect for Warm Weather Wear

The Chicago Shopping Guide

Chicago is one of my FAVORITE shopping cities (read about my shopping adventures in the… Read More »The Chicago Shopping Guide

Way Back When: ‘90s Talk Show Hosts

For those of us who can remember when Oprah first gained massive popularity in the… Read More »Way Back When: ‘90s Talk Show Hosts

Close up of woman with braids pulled into half-up, half-down style.

Creative Box Braid Styles: The Perfect Summer Braids

If you’re thinking about getting box braids for the summer or have already braided your… Read More »Creative Box Braid Styles: The Perfect Summer Braids

Essential Style Tips for the Apple-Shaped Fashionista

Dear Budget Fashionista, I just love this site! I have checked it daily for years… Read More »Essential Style Tips for the Apple-Shaped Fashionista

Best Mineral Makeup for Women of Color

Mineral makeup has become one of the biggest revolutions in the cosmetics industry; the powdery… Read More »Best Mineral Makeup for Women of Color

How to Wax Your Legs

It’s summer and that means it’s time to defuzz. Heading to local salon to get… Read More »How to Wax Your Legs

Here Comes the Bride, All Dressed in… Uggs?!

What: UggAustralia offers a “cozier” alternative to heels: The UGG I Do Wedding Shoe Colection,… Read More »Here Comes the Bride, All Dressed in… Uggs?!

Close up of pedicure treament to represent pedicure safety tips.

The 7 Essential Pedicure Safety Tips

It’s that time of year to talk about pedicure safety. Our feet are emerging from… Read More »The 7 Essential Pedicure Safety Tips

How-To: Shopping at Target

Ah, you say — you already know about shopping at Target. In fact, you’ve spent so… Read More »How-To: Shopping at Target

The Outnet: Site Review

is the high-fashion-focused Net-a-Porter’s outlet site—which pleases us because, while we love perusing Net-a-Porter’s designer… Read More »The Outnet: Site Review

Teens: Want to Start Wearing Makeup? Read This First

Dear Budget Fashionista, I’m 14 and I don’t normally wear makeup, but I want to… Read More »Teens: Want to Start Wearing Makeup? Read This First

Vera Wang Jewelry Still Killin' it at Kohl's

You’ve been dropping carefully orchestrated, subtle hints to your man for months (5 months, 22… Read More »Vera Wang Jewelry Still Killin' it at Kohl's

How to Style a Fascinator Hat (& Where to Get One)

Deep down, every one of us kind of wants to be Kate Middleton. But not… Read More »How to Style a Fascinator Hat (& Where to Get One)

Mother and daughter laugh while taking a selfie.

Mom Makeover in 4 Steps

Being a mom is one of the hardest jobs in the world. Even Oprah agrees,… Read More »Mom Makeover in 4 Steps

Spring Fashion Boot Camp: How To Mix Prints

When I was a wee lad growing up in the heartland of fashion, Milwaukee, I… Read More »Spring Fashion Boot Camp: How To Mix Prints

Dreaming of an Elegant St. John Knits Dress in Your Closet? Here’s Where to Find it on the Cheap

When it comes to luxury knits, St. John is the reigning global king. The classic… Read More »Dreaming of an Elegant St. John Knits Dress in Your Closet? Here’s Where to Find it on the Cheap

13 Must-Know Strategies for Shopping at Dillard’s

Next to Macy’s, Dillard’s is the go-to department store for mid-priced brands. The budget-friendly store… Read More »13 Must-Know Strategies for Shopping at Dillard’s

Recycle, Reuse, Renew: 11 Ways To Repurpose Old Clothing

So, there’s been a pile of clothes in the back of your closet for months… Read More »Recycle, Reuse, Renew: 11 Ways To Repurpose Old Clothing

The Webster at Target: Little Shops Make It to the Big League

As much as we like huge shopping malls, we can’t help but miss the excitement… Read More »The Webster at Target: Little Shops Make It to the Big League

Should I Buy a Fake Handbag? Hmm. No

Raise your hand if you dream of owning a designer handbag? Chanel, Fendi, Gucci, Prada… Read More »Should I Buy a Fake Handbag? Hmm. No

9 Inflation-Busting & Gorgeous Wedding Dresses under $150

Yes, you read that headline right. Whether you’re hosting a platinum wedding with everyone you’ve ever met in attendance or you’re swapping vows on a remote island, we have found a gorgeous dress for your special day at a price you won’t believe. Take a look at these five cheap wedding dresses under $100 .
We think you’ll like what you see below, but if you don’t, you can find other great dresses for the same fantastic price. Each of our chosen retailers has multiple gowns for less than $100, so you’re sure to find a dress you love that also fits your wedding budget.