There is nothing that can take your ensemble to the next level quite like a clutch. I've been carrying my aquamarine Urban Expressions Hollywood ($40.00) clutch from Twelve Oaks Accessory Garden every day for the past week, and it has been a faithful to adding that necessary pop of color to every outfit. Don't just reserve your clutches for the evening, either. An oversized clutch is perfect for day!

So, beauties, if you're jonesing for a new clutch but you don't quite have the extra cash to spare, here are five affordable clutches under $50.

I love my Urban Expressions Hollywood that I got from Twelve Oaks, but if you don't live near Hattiesburg you can get it for $40 at eBags. The bag comes in a variety of colors, but I suggest aquamarine (top, left) or red. If you're only considering one bag on the list, this is the one to get. It's a large, envelope style clutch that fits your wallet and cell phone comfortably with lots of room to spare for keys, lipstick, and a compact mirror!

For a basic black clutch, I recommend another winning bag from Urban Expressions, the Chelsea ($44.00 at eBags). It's a wardrobe mainstay and comes in several classic colors (like nutmeg and navy), plus I love the metal closure detailing.

If your mom always tells you that yellow isn't your color (ehem!), then you can always get away with adding it as an accessory! Although yellow clothing doesn't necessarily look great against my skin tone, a belt or a bag in this hue never hurts! I love this Big Buddha Mille Cross Body ($35.99 at Amazon.com). It would look fantastic paired with something teal or emerald green.

How cute is this little mangenta pink gem? Also available in green and yellow the Fiorelli Roka Small Leather Purse ($50.90 at Asos) is a little bit over $50, but worth every cent. This clutch makes a perfect work-to-night bag, especially if you have a hectic schedule and don't need a big bag slowing you down.

Last but not least, this red Ashley M Glossy Portfolio Clutch ($30.40 at eBags) adds that perfect bit of "ta-da" to your career wardrobe. For those of you serving the 9 to 5 daily grind in your corporate black blazer and pencil skirt, this bag gives you that fun pop of color.

Which bag is your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

You don't particularly need all of the latest trends, but you still might want them! When you're on a budget, it's all about narrowing down between the things that you want and the things you actually need. Sometimes the classics outweigh the trendy pieces, but if you have a little extra cash to spare indulge in a new spring trend or two. As for the perfect summer dresses, here are some affordable pieces to add to your shopping list!

This spring, you will need...

A shirt dress. If you didn't pick one up last summer, go ahead and invest in one this year. It's comfortable, and you can dress it up or down. Plus, it's perfect for work when paired with a blazer, or take it to the beach by adding gladiator sandals and a straw fedora! This Nautical Woven Shirt Dress ($19.99 at Charlotte Russe) is an updated classic due to its high-low cut, and it's at a fantastic price point!

A basic black dress. When do you not need a basic black dress? You probably already have one, but I am completely smitten with this Smoking dress ($59.99 at Mango). It's modern with sophisticated detailing and that menswear charm.

A maxi. Maxis are always on trend for spring, but if you want to make an investment, I suggest sticking to a basic maxi. This white Gathered Empire Maxi Dress ($92.00 at Topshop) is a contemporary staple.

This spring, you will want...

A sheer maxi. This dress is fantastic. It's quite an investment at $92 for a trendier piece, but I'm convinced that you can stretch out its wear due to the classic color and cut. If you need the perfect sheer maxi, try this Floral Mesh Back Maxi Dress ($92.00 at Topshop).

A watercolor-print dress. Of course floral prints reign for summer, but why not try something different? A watercolor print adds a bit more of an artsy edge, but it still has that summertime feel. I adore the You Art to Try It Dress ($54.99 at ModCloth).

A neon shirt dress. If you want to take your basic shirt dress to the next level, get it in a trendy color like neon. You can pair it with dark accessories in black or navy. This Sparkle & Fade Chiffon Shirtdress ($69.00 at Urban Outfitters) would look great paired with a black fedora and a stack of arm candy!

Contrast Buckle Clutch ($32.23 at ASOS)

Get ready for a sophisticated and eclectic summer with Lush Clothing! Lush's Spring/Summer 2012 Lookbook includes two of my favorite style bloggers, Julie from Sincerely Jules and Rachel from That's Chic.

If you're looking for something unique at a great pricepoint, shop Lush's latest collection at Tobi.com, Nordstrom, Lulu's, and Urban Outfitters.

Established in 2003 in Los Angeles, Lush has quickly become a favorite brand for young women. Lush's mission is to clothe women who want to look cute yet sexy, casual at times yet uncompromising in style. That's why they strive to create designs that are both pleasing to eye.

With their amazing price points and edgy, fashion forward styles they have created a brand that has taken the fashion world by storm.

Keep your eyes peeled for some of my favorite pieces below:

Yellow Neon Caged Bralet: $48

Hot Pink Skin Deep Trousers: $50

Purple Animal Print Throw over: $44

White Lace Cut Out Dress: $50

What's black and white and spotted all over? Beauty and the Budget's pattern of the month--polka dots! Prints are huge for spring, and this classic pattern has had a strong comeback. While the classic black and white polka dots will always remain a mainstay in my closet, I also love the newer color variations I've seen--specifically cobalt blue polka dots against teal.

For a sublte way to wear polka dots, accessories add the perfect amount of pop. The Polka Dot Ribbon Floppy Hat ($12.80 at Forever 21) would look fantastic paired with a red summer dress or with a pastel top and white trousers. If you want to add a pop of pattern and color to an otherwise dull outfit, you can't overlook this Polka dot silk scarf ($19.99 at Mango). With contrasting colors like coral and purple, it simply makes the perfect statement!

Polka dot bottoms provide a bold way to make a statement. Forever 21 offers the perfect dressy short with these High Rise Polka Dot Shorts ($15.80 at Forever 21), and a red blazer with a white button up would be the perfect compliment. For an even bolder statement, try polka-dot pants!

Naturally a bag is a great and versitle way to add this pattern to your ensemble. The polka dot Milian bag ($40.00 at Aldo) also has the perfect contrast of cognac brown trim and antiqued gold detailing. For those obsessed with Peter Pan collars, the Tinley Road Peter Pan Knit Top ($39.00 at Piperlime) will satisfy your cravings for the ultimate nod to Alexa Chung. And lastly, let's not forget about getting your feet into this trend, too. Several variations of the polka-dotted shoe have been created, but these LILLE Ballet Flats ($44.76 at Asos) have certainly caught my eye.

Which pieces are your favorite? Let me know in the comments!

Sometimes, cheap chic can fool you--it might actually look like an expensive purchase! When the price tag isn't visible, find out if you really have expensive taste! There is no right or wrong answer. Just click your favorite item to view the price. If you chose the most expensive of the two, then you've got expensive taste!

Forever 21 is a haven for anyone looking for a fashionable bargain, but shopping in the store can be completely overwhelming. Last week I was in the Charleston, SC store, and it was a complete mad house. I loved nearly everything I put my hands on (tried on the coral pants above, but I needed a size up and they didn't have it!), but I was so overwhelmed with the selections that I didn't buy much of anything.

Due to the massive selection at the store, I've rounded up six items that are absolutely essential to your spring 2012 wardrobe! I've been obsessed with this Wide Brim Wool Hat ($14.80) for the past month or so. It comes in a variety of shades, but the red and camel colors are my absolute favorite. Everyone needs a statement accessory, and this Rhinestone Pyramid Bracelet ($10.80) will add the perfect contemporary touch to any outfit. The bracelet will go with almost anything, but I think it would really stand out paired with something navy. I so wanted these Pleated High Rise Pants ($24.80), but it was the last pair and I needed a size up. They aren't the most figure flattering for girls like me with wide hips, but if worn with a tucked in blouse it can definitely work.

Peter pan collars are classic and so hot right now. Trend setters like Alexa Chung and Hailee Steinfeld have been known to sport this classic collar, but you can get the look for less with this Peter Pan Collar Shirt ($17.80). I actually own this top, and I wear it all the time! I am such a fan of flats and these Dotted Peep Toe Flats ($19.80) are no exception. They're perfect for summer and would look great with a pleated midi skirt. Lastly, I've been eyeing this emerald green Structured Crossbody ($19.80). I'd pair it with cobalt blue trousers and an oversized white button up.

Which items are your favorites? Did I leave something out that you absolutely love? Let me know in the comments below!

You know when I post a celebrity style for less article, it's going to be good. Due to my lack of enthusiasm about the majority of celebrity style, I only reserve the celebrity look for less posts with women who exude style consistently. Style setters such as Elizabeth Olsen and Kirsten Dunst have caught my eye in the past, and now it's Alexa Chung.

I. Love. Her. Style. She's effortlessly cool, seems like a chill kinda girl, and she's different. This look that Alexa Chung wore to the Annual British Designers Collective is uber chic, it's been featured on several fashion sites as one of the top looks of last week, and you can get it all for less right here on Beauty and the Budget!

You might already have a basic black jumper in your closet, but if not you can always try this Women's Button-Back 3/4-Sleeve Pullover ($22.00 at Old Navy). The Woven Floral Skirt ($14.80) from Forever 21 is pretty close to what Chung is wearing. Plus, since it's A-line, it flatters most body types. I'm definitely loving that she paired flats with her outfit, and these Kelsi Dagger Lakota ($62.99 at 6pm.com) are a chic and affordable option. Chung's minimal accessories are another reason why this look stands out. Throw on a simple cocktail ring, like this Swirling Bead Ring ($5.80 at Forever 21), to complete the look.

Next time you're jonesing for some new nail polish, why not grab a shade that says something? I love nail polish, and I love it even more when they have cute names attached. It's like a little hint of personality in a bottle, and it really says a lot about the inspiration for the color.

Pastels are back again for spring, and this time pretty little Easter-inspired hues are popular nail colors, too.

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