Alexis's Budget Style Blog

What's a boy to do when he's trapped in a sewing room for 16 hours a day, with no real (or fake) UV rays in sight? If you watched "Project Runway" last night, then you joined me in watching the tanning-obsessed designer Blayne lament his fading glow (and by glow, I mean bright orange tint). While Blayne is actually beginning to resemble a member of the human - as opposed to carrot - species, I do wonder why he doesn't stop off at a Duane Reade and pick up a self-tanner to extend his color.

To keep your summer tan (real or fake), check out these drugstore self-tanners - all promise to deliver sun-kissed color without UV damage and (listen up, Blayne!) without the orange afterglow.

If you are shopping around for a new handbag, be sure to put Target on your list of stops. Find not only Gryson bags still available, but now Monica Botkier handbags, as well - also for a fraction of the designer price! Choose from cute wristlets, metallic hobos (like the one pictured here) and faux snakeskin satchels - all priced under $50 (and available only through September 14).

For more cheap (but fab) bags, check out the rest of my favorite summer handbag steals before they disappear.

(Image credit: Botkier for Target Gold Hobo Bag, Target)

Is there anything more exciting than tearing into a just-hit-the-stores beauty product for the first time? Undoubtedly, but that small detail isn't going to put a damper on the thrill I get from trying a new product. The next tube, stick, vial or bottle you open, after all, just may contain the beauty miracle you have been waiting for.

Unfortunately, for most of us, we tend to come across a lot more beauty mishaps than miracles. The casualties of our beauty trials litter bathroom cabinets and drawers, sad reminders of dashed hopes and dreams. Don't let bad products ruin your fun (or bank account). With forgiving return policies, CVS, Rite Aid and Ulta let you try products without fear of commitment.

Check out my latest beauty disappointment, L'Oreal's Voluminous Naturale Mascara, and let us know which products you've recently tried by posting a comment below.

Mineral makeup may be all the rage, but it's not for everyone. The powder formulas have been known to cling to dry skin patches and settle into (and accentuate) fine lines, no matter how carefully we follow the swirl, tap and buff guidelines. Luckily, you can try mineral makeup without a major financial commitment with this roundup of affordable, drugstore mineral makeup brands. Once I manage to stop spilling the powder all over the place, I'll really start saving some money.

It is one thing to splurge on a fabulous pair of boots or cashmere sweater when you know you will be able to wear it for years. It is quite another matter to spend big bucks on back-to-school clothes for the kids (who not only have a tendency to get bigger each year, but seem adverse to hangars, folding and proper laundering). The tricky part is finding clothes that kids will actually want to wear (hand-me-down scars don't fade easily) at prices you can afford. These bargain-hunting shopping tips can help.

From online shopping to outlet malls and DIY tips, learn how to spare your wallet and send the kids off to school in style this fall.

While I’m not close to abandoning my flip-flops and cute summer dresses (it’s not even August yet!), the stores are already clearing the racks for fall fashions. And from what I am seeing, we have a lot to look forward to: chunky necklaces, full skirts, jewel tones and a return to the waistline. No matter what the trends, however, there are certain basic wardrobe pieces that never go out of style. While you’re hitting the summer sale racks, get started building your fall wardrobe by keeping an eye out for these key style pieces.

I left for vacation a few weeks ago with sassy red hair. Since I also departed without any of my sun-protecting products, I returned from holiday with hair color that most closely resembles a copper penny. My beauty woes should serve as a reminder that fun in the sun can take a toll on your appearance. Be prepared with this roundup of essential summer beauty products - from heat-resistant lipgloss to hydrating facial sprays and (you guessed it) sun protection for your hair, they will help you look your summer best.

Despite a haunting memory of a sailor dress that got me more than my fair share of mocking in high school, I have great affection for nautical styles. Sure, the look goes best with gin and tonics on swanky yachts, but I'm not letting my landlubber status stop me from sporting my navy and white this summer. Check out these fun (and budget friendly) nautical styles, and feel like you've set sail on the high seas.

I am a sucker for any product that promises a "dewy" look, which is why I love tinted moisturizers. In the summer months particularly, tinted moisturizer and a little powder keep my skin soft and even-toned, eliminating the need for heavier liquid or powder foundations. Today's offerings come in a wide array of formulas - from oil-free to wrinkle reducing - so there is a tinted moisturizer for every skin type and need. In spite of the improvements made, shopping for tinted moisturizer can still be tricky, especially at a drugstore where you cannot try the shades out. To help, I've rounded up some top-rated tinted moisturizer picks - at every price point - so you can find your dewy, summer look in a snap.

Summer is barely underway, a fact I'm using to justify the purchase of a few more new pairs of fab summer shoes. Sure, this may sound like an extravagance given the high gas prices, but new shoes will mean more walking on my part, and fewer miles on my car. It's a win-win for my feet and my wallet, especially when you take into consideration the serious summer sales going on right now. Check out my favorite online shoe stores (I practically stole these cute Bandolino shoes from DSW), and do your part to reduce harmful gas emissions. Saving the planet has never looked better!

(Image credit: Alexis Webster, licensed to About.com)