Brit designer Paul Smith's shades on sale

For all the promise and inspiration the new President brought with him upon his election, Obama's presence in DC has yet to significantly impact the flailing economy (national unemployment recently hit a 26-year high, for example). It's enough to make a broke-down fashionista cut up his Paul Smith Sweaters and make his very own "Coat of Many Colors" to keep him warm on a chilly summer night at, say, the Hollywood Bowl.

Okay, obviously things could be worse... and despair not, fellow style fiends, because for those seeking high style for less there is even more hope. Discount fashion site Billion Dollar Babes is bringing high fashion to the masses at affordable prices--and doing so without the quiet desperation that comes with shopping other sites hawking out-of-season wares.

The site is currently featuring a sale on Sir Paul Smith's fashionable eyeglasses, just in time to kick off the summer. The always-hip Brit designer --knighted by the Queen in 2000 for his contribution to British design-- paired with Oliver Peoples to roll out the Paul Smith Spectacles eyewear collection that is as quirky-cool as his garments. The sale on these shades is at nearly 40-50% off, and definitely worthy of perusal. While most styles are for women, there are some men's and unisex frames to be found. Especially noteworthy is the array of classic-with-a-twist aviators Smith offers. If the economy continues its slump, you can be sure aviators will still be cool next summer!

Founded in Hollywood in 2001, Billion Dollar Babes pioneered the multi-designer sample sale with its “real world” shopping events in major cities worldwide. What started as an “insiders” event at LA's House of Blues has, over the years, grown into a fashion phenomenon complete with flowing cocktails, beauty bars and swag bags. These events, favorites of even A-listers in search of a great bargain, have been regularly held in Los Angeles, New York, Dallas, Chicago, London and Dublin with participating designers ranging from international design houses Dolce & Gabbana, Valentino and Chloe, to American contemporaries like Diane von Furstenberg, and LA-local faves Catherine Malandrino and James Perse. Get on their mailing list today-- it's free (the best price of all, just ask any celebrity)!