Plunge Backless Suit ($60.88 at ASOS)

On the avenue of dress shopping for an upcoming special event or occasion, you can go from something really fancy (but pricey) to something that's not as flashy (but rather affordable). However, if you shop properly (read: scour the racks) you can find many fabulous dresses that are under $50. Fortunately, you're reading an article from an expert bargain shopper--under $50? Found it! And I'll take one in every color!

Below are three dresses that look expensive, but aren't. And if you keep reading, I'll give tips on how to wear these dresses, so that you can avoid "cheapening" the look. Ready? Read on...

The Dress: West Coast Wardrobe Midas Touch Dress

The Cost: $44.00 at Boutique to You

What makes this dress look expensive?

The little flash of "precious metal" definitely makes this dress look more expensive than its worth. Plus the high low hem is so on trend right now.

Personal Styling Tips:

Pair with a dainty gold necklace that parallels the neckline, a metallic clutch, and dark red lip color, and you'll look like you're ready for the red carpet!

The Dress: Two Tone Silk Midi Dress

The Cost: $40.00 at Topshop (was $130!)

What makes this dress look expensive?

If the old price tag is any indication, this dress looks expensive because it's 100% silk. Fortunately for we bargain shoppers, this dress is now on sale. Snap it up before it's gone!

Personal Styling Tips:

I would have a little bit of fun with this dress since it's a pretty simple colorblock design. A python print clutch might look nice, or you could try a statement necklace to add a bit more character to the look. If you want to accentuate your waist, add a textured belt in a fun color like yellow or keep it simple with a black belt.

The Dress: Love 21 Cascade Flutter Dress

The Cost: $27.80 at Forever 21

What makes this dress look expensive?

The silhouette! This cascade detailing and the flutter sleeve make this dress look like it's designer. It will surely garner a "Where did you get that?" or two.

Personal Styling Tips: I would wear with strappy gold heels and a statement necklace that runs parallel to the neckline. A gold cuff and pretty nude polish would finish off the look perfectly!

This month on Beauty and the Budget, we're going green--emerald green. Emerald green was most beautifully displayed on the runways of Elie Saab and Carolina Herrera. You can punch up your wardrobe by adding a pop of emerald green, or go all out and buy a bold dress or top in this color. Thankfully this attention-grabbing color of the moment looks fantastic on most skin tones, and it's sure to win compliments!

This green bikini is playful and fun, and it's even a mix and match from two different stores! Get the Retro Bikini Top for $34.00 at Boden, and wear it with this Tied retro brief for $39.99 at J.Crew. If you aren't quite smitten with the color, dabble a little bit in these fun accessories, like the Pieces Filigran Stud Earrings ($12.73 at Asos) or the Pieces Dolly Apple Ring ($12.73 at Asos).

For a more bold approach, try the Women's Printed Bow-Tie Chiffon Tops for $24.00 at Old Navy. The print definitely adds an extra element of flair, and it would look fantastic paired under a navy or black blazer. If you have a wedding or another fancy event to attend, I recommend investing in this classic Tuck Neck Shift Dress ($95.00 at Topshop). It's such a winner!

How do you style emerald green? Let me know in the comments below!

Can you believe it's almost May?! I know I sound old when I say this, but I seriously have no idea where the time has gone! April was a fun month here on Beauty and the Budget! Did you miss something? Catch up with this month's top articles, and for those of you dedicated beauties who check back here every day--relive your favorite articles from this month! Here's the top five:

Ways to Wear Arm Candy--You all loved the three different ways to stack on your arm candy! Which was your favorite way?

How to wear Polka Dots--Learn how to style the pattern of the month, and get all of my favorite pieces under $45

Spring 2012 Trends: 25 Pieces under $25--Snap up these bargains before they disappear

Lush's S/S 2012 Lookbook--Their latest lookbook features two of my favorite fashion bloggers. Find out who they are!

Must-Have Spring Dresses--That you need and want! Which trends are a must and which trends aren't? Here's the run down of the three dress trends you need, and the three dress trends you'll want!

Beauties, meet Alice Eve. She's the latest "Look for Less" star!

I'll be honest, I had to Google Alice Eve before I wrote this post. I had no clue who she was! (She's the Irish nanny from Sex and the City 2, who knew?!) However that doesn't mean her celebrity style didn't stand out! This winning combintaion of mint green and bright green is absolutely stunning, which is why Alice Eve deserves a spot on the lastest Look for Less post right here on Beauty and the Budget.

The TFNC Sleeveless Cowl Back Wrap Skirt Dress ($63.63 at Asos) flatters almost every figure, and the silhouette is comparable to Alice Eve's Prada ensemble. Take this dress to the next level by pairing it with the Urban Expressions Kennedy ($46.40 at eBags) clutch, and as for that perfect pop of coral, try  L'Oreal Colour Riche Nail Color Versailles Romance ($5.99 at Walgreens). I'm not particuarly smitten with her shoes here, so I substituted them out with something more simple and affordable--the Sam & Libby Prowly pumps ($25.99 at 6pm.com).

Are you loving this color combination? Let me know in the comments!

Contrast Buckle Clutch ($32.23 at ASOS)

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!

Like you need another reason to love the wearability of scarves...

For those of you who are enjoying the last bit of cool weather, you probably won't mind adding another layer to your ensemble. As for those of us who are experiencing hot and humid temperatures, we need a little bit more of a push to wrap a scarf around our neck. Thankfully, scarves are no longer reserved for winter, and there are many lightweight and wearable options for hot summer days. Below you'll find some inspiring street style photos of fashionable scarves along with an affordable and similar option you can buy.

As always, shop the look below and click on images for more details!

More Aldo...

Cap toe ballet flats are perfectly chic for spring, and they won't leave you feeling regret after five o'clock! This classic shoe style has been updated for spring, but you can continue to wear them throughout the year with the right pieces.

For a casual take on this spring trend (and for something that's beach-vacation friendly), a rounded ballet flat is the perfect choice. However, if you need a more sophisticated look, pointed toes are your best option. Thankfully this style of shoe works well with most outfits, but it looks best with short summer dresses, flowy skirts or skinny leg trousers. In most cases, avoid pairing with wide leg pants unless they're short enough to make your flats clearly visible.

And of course, you don't have to spend a lot of money to get a great flat! Above are five fabulous styles for under $100

More Asos...