Thursday, March 31, 2011

Confidence - What I've Learned from Feminists and Strong Women

You can be wearing the latest in designer duds, if you have no confidence you are done. Wearing just jeans and a t-shirt, confidence can take you almost anywhere. There is one single thing that feminists, strong women, and successful women have in common and that's confidence. Wearing clothes that fit and make you feel good can help but confidence comes from within. Part of that is being happy with who you are, inner self as well as your outer self.

Think about that today as you get dressed.  Don't leave home without your confidence. It's your best accessory.




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Wednesday, March 30, 2011

DC is a Fashion Town - 2011 Disctrict Sample Sale

Last night I had the opportunity to cover the 10th District Sample Sale for GalTime.com, Deacon Does DC and my little ol' blog too.  My fellow blogger friend McLean Robbins of Deacon Does DC usually covers the event. She had to be out of town on business and I took the fashion bullet for her, which is made out of faux fur and satin by the way.

Check out the coverage on Deacon Does DC and GalTime. Below is a slideshow of event photos.





I'm sure you all want to know if I got any bargains. Unfortunately, I'm not exactly in the smaller size range of many of the boutiques. I however, was undaunted by that fact and went in search of awesome shoes and accessories.  I got an amazing pair of shoes by Coclico from Simply Soles for 80% off!  Yes, that's right 80% off! I also got some killer jewelry from Mona Assemi and a beautiful illustration from Yanique. You can see her illustrations in the slide show above.

Here is a little net sneak peak of my awesome shoes. I'll be wearing them in an upcoming post.


Now rush on over to Deacon Does DC and read my coverage of the District Sample Sale!


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District Sample Sale - Coming Soon...

I attended the 10th District Sample Sale last night and covered the event for GalTime, Deacon Does DC as well as RGR.  I'm excited to tell you all about this fun event.  Here are a couple of  photos. I have so much for you. Later today, my fashion mavens...





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Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Outlet Shopping - The Choices



This weekend my sister and I did a little outlet shopping at the Talbots Outlet in Virginia. I love this outlet because the items they sell are the same ones that have been online and in their stores.  I started thinking about the differences in outlet shopping. Did you know that outlet shopping has become such big business that some companies create lesser quality, lower priced items specifically for their outlet stores? It's a switch that they don't tell you about. One of the ways you can tell is by the tags. If the tags say outlet on them, the items were made specifically for the outlet and will not be sold in higher end stores.  In this case, you'll also notice that some things have been skimped on. Items may not be stitched the same way, lined, or have as much hardware.  The corners or seams may not be reinforced as well.  These are things that will make your items last longer. If that's not a concern for you, go for it.  The item is still a great deal if you love it and will wear it often.

I live close to an outlet center.  I am very picky about the stores that I frequent.  I find the real bargains can be found in the department store outlets like Nordstrom Rack, Saks Off 5th, and Neiman Marcus Last Call.  These stores have high end, designer merchandise at bargain prices.




I've sung the praises of Nordstrom Rack in previous posts you've also seen me wearing lots of items I purchased at the store. There is a bit of looking and hunting that has to be done at these stores. There are very few pretty displays and lots of sorting. If you're willing to do the work, bargains can be found.

My favorite story is about a designer trench coat that I fell in love with at Nordstrom. At full price it was over $400. Way out of my budget at the time. I walked away and decided to start saving. I told myself if I could save the money then I'd go back. I saved and went back but it was gone. I started searching, even asked a clerk to do a store search for me but no luck. One day I was wondering around Saks Off 5th and saw some jackets hanging on a rack. I wandered over to look and I almost fainted. The coveted trench was there, in my size and it was a little over $100!  On top of that, I had a coupon to get an additional 15% off. I couldn't believe it.  I saved over $300!

I've been able to buy some high quality clothing that I'll wear for years because of these department store outlets. I've heard that Nordstrom Rack is having a huge end of the season sale. If you live near a location and have time and money, it's a great place to score some deals.


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Moment to Moment That's Me

"I'm actually no, I'm not a planner. I wouldn't say I was a planner. I would say I'm a kinda fly by the seat of my pants gal. You know moment to moment, yeah that's me, that's...yeah"
- Vivian in Pretty Woman 

That quotation really sums up my day to day fashion philosophy.  It's also why I'm a chronic over packer when I travel. I never know what mood will strike me. When I have a special event, I sometimes plan ahead. But on a daily basis, I open up my closet and see what grabs me. 30 for 30 really brought that home for me. I think that's why it was so difficult. I dress based on how I'm feeling, the weather or I start with one specific piece that I'm dying to wear that day.  Sometimes it makes my Honey crazy when we are getting ready to go out. It is also one of the reasons I don't have trouble being a remixer. I see endless possibilities.

Here are a few on my favorite "fly by the seat of my pants" outfits.




Are you an outfit planner? 


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Monday, March 28, 2011

Let the Accessories Speak

I love wearing outfits with flair but there are times when simple is best. Letting the accessories speak for you can be key. That's what I did with this ensemble. I was really feeling the asian influence of my Mint Blossom Bracelet from JewelMint. I longed for a mandarin collar jacket or shirt that would work with it at the office but I don't own either. I threw on the shoes which are a bit chinoiserie.

Jacket - Lane Bryant icon, Shirt - Target, Pants - Lane Bryant,
Shoes - Beverly Feldman via Saks Off 5th, Bracelet - JewelMint, Ring - JewelMint














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Saturday, March 26, 2011

A Pop of Color

When a friend saw this outfit she told me that I was single handedly brining back the 80's.  It made me laugh. I really love the pop of color that these tights bring.  I grew up in the 80's (crap I'm old) and I didn't own a pair of tights this color. I did however, own a pair a fuschia tights that I wore with a multi-colored striped dress. I had big hair too. There is a fashion saying that if you wore a trend once, that you can't wear it again. I don't think that's true. If you can adjust the trend to a more grown up and sophisticated you, then you can wear your favorite trend and not look like a flashback. What do you think my Runway friends? Fashion forward or flashback?

This outfit started with the skirt and everything else fell into place. I got this skirt at the swap in February. It was a last minute find and I was thrilled. The outfit needed a little color and If I owned a dark yellow or mustard yellow top I'd be wearing that. So I just went for the blue tights.


Jacket - Belk, Top - Coldwater Creek, Belt - Talbots Outlet, Skirt - Swap,
Boots - Silhouettes, Tights - We Love Colors, Necklace - Self made, Bracelet - JewelMint, Ring - JewelMint





JewelMInt - Coda Cuff and Metal Mosaic Ring


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Friday, March 25, 2011

JewelMint - Jewelry Shopping

Over the past couple months you've seen me wearing JewelMint jewelry in my outfit posts. I'm a huge fan of the unique pieces and the great price. JewelMint is the brainchild of actress Kate Bosworth and stylist Cher Coulter. It is a monthly jewelry service.  Each month you are sent an email with items selected for you based on your personal style profile.  Each piece is just $29.99 with free shipping and free exchanges!

When you first go to the site you'll get started by completing your personal style profile. Just answer a few questions.



Once you complete the style quiz, you'll enter your personal information and you'll get your first listing of suggested items.  My suggestions were perfect for me. Each month you'll get an email with new suggestions.  You can either choose an item, ask to see additional items, or choose to skip the month.  If you skip the month, your credit card will not be charged. You can cancel your subscription at any time.

The pieces are unique and the quality is excellent.  There are pieces to fit every style or whim.  All of the pieces are designed by Kate and Cher. The site includes some of information on their inspirations and they also have a blog called the JewelMint Style Diary with tips and behind the scenes details.

My first purchase was the Potion Pendant Necklace (seen here). It arrived in just a few days. The packaging was beautiful and is something you never see with jewelry at this price point. I also own four other pieces.  When your piece arrives, it is packed in a padded envelope. The item I received this time arrived in this beautiful box.


Each piece comes with a card containing information and a note from Kate and Cher.


My ring was also nestled inside a black velvet bag.



Liberty Ring
The team at JewelMint asked me if I'd like to partner with them to review jewelry and tell you all about JewelMint. Being a fan already, I jumped at the chance. They sent me this beautiful ring. 

The Liberty Ring is unique in its design. It's a mix of silver and gold. I love the boldness of the wide band. The chain tassels are unexpected in a ring and really make it stand out. I can't wait to wear it!

I can't say enough good things about JewelMint. You all know, I firmly believe that you shouldn't have to sacrifice great style for reasonable price or vice versa. I also don't think you should have to sacrifice good customer service. You get it all with JewelMint. Their jewelry is unique, the quality is high, the price is great and every month it's like having a personal shopper.  They also include styling tips on the site with each piece of jewelry.  

Give JewelMint a try. I am sure you'll love it.







Disclosure: JewelMint is a partner of Real Girl Runway.  I received the ring featured in this post as a gift from JewelMint for the purpose of reviewing their jewelry and company. This is review is my honest opinion.


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Thursday, March 24, 2011

Tangled Up In Blue

Can you believe that this whole outfit cost less than $50?  No?  I'll give you the break down. It's the beauty of swapping, thrifting and sales.


sweater jacket - FREE (Frugal Fashionista Swap)
sequin tank - $7 (Target sale rack)
skirt - $5 (Goodwill)
shoes - $20 (Kohl's, sale and Kohl's dollars)
bracelets - gift and $12 (Kohl's)
rings - gifts
watch - 5 year anniversary gift from my company
Total Outfit Cost - $42

I love this outfit even more because it is so easy to wear. It made me feel chic and confident but was really comfortable at the same time.













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Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Laughing Wednesday

My sister sent me this cartoon because when she saw it she thought of me. I have to admit, it's quite possible that I had a similar conversation with my Mom when I was growing up.



I don't know about you but I feel like this almost every time I get a great pair of shoes.  They elevate your mood, make you feel special, and even if they aren't heels, make you walk taller. It's amazing how two little items can boost your confidence that way. Even if your weight fluctuates, shoes always fit. I'm sure that's why I'm always struggling to find more closet space for my shoes.




NOTE: Baby Blues is written and drawn by Rick Kirkman and Jerry Scott.  This strip was originally publised on Monday, November 2, 2009. 


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Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Moment of Lust: Hermes Kelly Bag

There is really no substitute for a classic handbag.  You can carry it for a lifetime.  Hermes is the pinnacle of luxury and classic style. The Kelly bag is large enough to fit your daily essentials but also lady like enough to carry any time. Grace Kelly made this bag famous because she used it to hide her pregnant belly from the press and public. Believe it or not there was a time when it was thought to be in poor taste to show off your pregnancy.  The bag was originally called the Petite Sac Haut a Courroies (Haut a Courroies means "high belt").  When the princess began carrying the bag regularly and it appeared in the press, the name was changed to the Kelly.





Hermes doesn't have prices for classic and wait list bags like the Kelly and the Birkin on their website. In a search, I found used bags for a little over $5,000 and new bags ranging from $7,500 to over $14,000, depending on the type of leather used to make the bag.

I personally love this similar bag by Aldo (style: CYPHERT), for only $45!  It comes in five colors, rust, bone, beige, red and black. They also sell a smaller style (TELLIS) for $40.


Photo credits: Life Magazine and Time Magazine


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Monday, March 21, 2011

Looking High and Low

When I found this dress on ASOS I knew I had to order it right away.  I was even more convinced when I realized it was on sale for $35. The top has an angled zipper and the bottom is higher in the front and lower in the back. From a distance I think the pattern looks like camouflage but it's actually a floral pattern.


Dress - ASOS (no longer available), Sweater - swap, Belt - Lane Bryant, Boots - Silhouettes,
Necklace - JewelMint, Bracelet - JewelMint





The design of this necklace looks bohemian and a bit mystical. I really like the mix of colors. The chain is adjustable.  It can be worn long or shorter. The cuff has a stacked look. As you know I love stacking bracelets so wearing a single bracelet that gives me a similar look is ideal.
Potion Pendant Necklace - JewelMInt (no longer available), Crux Cuff - JewelMint




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Friday, March 18, 2011

Help the People of Japan with Fashion

The devastation in Japan is heartbreaking.  Through it all the people there are maintaining order and their composure.  They are truly amazing. I've already made a donation but when I saw this wonderful offer from JewelMint, I had to share it with you. 

Until March 22nd, JewelMint will donate $10 from the purchase of every Mint Blossom Bracelet to the American Red Cross Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Relief Program.  You'll get a beautiful and fun Spring bracelet and make a contribution to a great cause.


JewelMint Mint Blossom Bracelet
 If you'd like to donate in another way, please do. Here are a few links and some information to help you out.


Text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation
(It will be charged to your phone bill.)






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I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Balmain (Studded and Punk)

I lived through the original punk revolution of the 80's.  I definitely wasn't a punk but I've always loved the fashion and the rebelliousness of the culture.  When I happened upon a fashion spread on Balmain in this month's W magazine, I was in awe. The magazine keeps calling me back to look at the clothes. Maybe it's because they are by no means practical for my daily life. I can't imagine walking into a government building dressed in that jacket or t-shirt. Especially the agency that I work with. It's the complete opposite of the punk ideal.

A few of my favorites from the collection...

Studded Leather Jacket with Strass - $12, 565



I would definitely need supermodel legs to wear this skirt.


Leather Studded Skirt with Paint



Destroyed T-Shirt with Pins




The beauty of dreaming and obsessing is that you can dream up a big bank account. 


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Thursday, March 17, 2011

The Unsung Hero


It's long been my belief that the scarf is the unsung hero of the accessory world. You all know I love items that can be worn multiple ways. Well my friends, I'm here to tell you that a scarf is the pinnacle of multi-duty items. When I say scarf I'm referring to the silk or satin type, not the knitted, winter type. Although I dearly love my warm winter scarves and cozy Pashminas, they definitely don't have the year round versatility of a beautiful silk or satin scarf.


Givenchy Scarf - thrifted $3


Scarves are easily one of the biggest bangs for your buck when thrifting. Most people don't give the scarf rack or bin a second glance. I'm sure for many people it calls to mind stuffy ladies at country clubs and grandmas wearing bad polyester dresses. The most I've ever paid for a scarf at a thrift store is $4. On discount days I've paid less than a dollar. When picking out scarves at a thrift store I look for several things:
  • What material is used in this scarf?
  • Are there any stains?
  • How can i wear it?
Material
Many times tags and labels have been removed from scarves by the time they arrive in the thrift store. Educate yourself a bit by checking out silk scarves and blouses at another store. You'll be able to spot the real silk scarves in no time. Satin scarves are usually made out of polyester but they can be just as pretty and versatile.

Stains
Beware of stains.  Many times they are set in and you won't be able to remove them.  It's best to either dry clean or hand wash silk. You can't use harsh detergents to remove stains. If you love the scarf and can either hide the stain or are willing to take the chance on cleaning it, go for it.

Wear
I have scarves in all shapes and sizes. I tend to wear the long rectangular scarves and the large square scarves most often. I've passed on some small square or kerchief type scarves that I found for a bargain because I wouldn't wear them very often. It's not a bargain if you won't wear it. When I look at a scarf I see endless possibilities. There are so many ways to tie them.


The beauty of a Hermes scarf is out of my price range. I hope to one day find a Hermes scarf in a thrift bin. I know it's delusional but a girl can dream. Leave it to this illustrious fashion house to publish the best ideas for scarf tying ever!  You can purchase the cards or you can download them FREE here.  Free is always better.





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Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Spring Picks for the Budget Girl - The Mix

The beauty of the Spring Picks list is that you can mix and match these items to create outfits for all occasions. The March cover of Elle showed Katy Perry wearing some of the items on the list. If this outfit is too much of a mix of colors for you, try just one brightly colored piece.


Bold Colors, Obi Belt



Take a few classic pieces but give them a modern twist by adding a funky bangle and neutral booties.

A Little Jackie O
White skirt, Breton Striped Top, Bangle, Cat Eye Sunglasses,
Lady Like Bag, Neutral Booties 



Keep your outfit from looking dated or like a costume by mixing eras. Your bohemian 70's inspired peasant top becomes edgy by adding some big metal bangles and wedge booties.
Edgy Boho
70's Inspired Top, Wide Leg Jeans, Biker Jacket, Bangles, Neutral Booties




Neutrals like a shirt dress, pants or skirt can take you anywhere. Your shirt dress can be summer office appropriate but dressed down for a backyard BBQ by adding flat sandals and tying the scarf at your waist.


Warm Weather Work
Neutral shirt dress, Bright Scarf, Rose Gold Watch, Lady Like Bag, Bangles, Neutral Booties



A sheer sweater can take a short sleeve or sleeveless dress (or top) from day to evening. By adding an obi belt or sash, it can look intentional instead of like you are just cold.


Spring Evening
Bright dress, Sheer Sweater, Rose Gold Earrings and Bracelet, Neutral Booties



By adding a biker jacket to this flowy maxi, it went from "sweet and girly" to a "tough and rocker".  The contrast lends a sense of modern cool to a sophisticated skirt.
Biker Jacket, Maxi Skirt, Neutral Tee, Scarf, Lady Like Bag



With just ten basic pieces and some inexpensive accessories, you can have a spring and summer of mix and match outfits. One of the things 30 for 30 reinforced for me was to be more adventurous. Try new combinations and test your style limits.


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Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Spring Picks for the Budget Girl (part 4)

We are at the end of our list. These are the last three items. Keep in mind that I've pulled some suggestions for you but there are so many place to find these items. Discount stores, thrift stores and even street vendors have awesome finds.

TOP SPRING PICKS
1. a solid color flowy maxi skirt
2. wide leg jeans
3. anything 70's inspired
4. biker jacket (leather or faux leather, whatever fits your budget)
5. a sheer sweater (for layering)
6. neutrals in pale tans or blushes (pants or skirt)
7. a Breton striped top
8. bold color tops and bottoms (vary this depending on your life)
9. a pair of neutral booties that can be dressed up or down, heel height is a preference
10. white pants, skirt, or dress

EXTRAS
1. cat eye sunglasses
2. big bangle bracelets

3. anything rose gold
4. obi belts or wide sashes
5. colorful scarves

6. lady like bags


To view the buying information for the options, click on the picture. It will take you to a site where you can click on each item and get the details.

I found some great obi belts on sites like Etsy.  I love those sites because you can get a one of a kind items at a bargain price. A while back, I did a post about Etsy and the wonderful items that can be found on the site.


Obi Belts and Sashes

A scarf is a chic and easy way to jazz up an outfit. I think some of the best scarves can be found at thrift stores for amazing prices. 
Colorful Scarves



It's fun to throw a lady like bag on with a rougher outfit. It adds polish and sophistication.
Lady Like Bag

The next installment will feature a few mix and match tips. Stay tuned my friends.


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Monday, March 14, 2011

Spring Picks for the Budget Girl (part 3)

Oh the joy of accessories. My heart beats fast, just walking past all of the jewelry, bags, belts, and scarves. My obsession with sunglasses is a bit crazy. Every girl needs great accessories to complete an outfit. You can change the whole tone of an outfit by changing the accessories. A simple little black dress (LBD) can go from day to night with just a simple switch.

All of these items can be found for budget prices.

TOP SPRING PICKS
1. a solid color flowy maxi skirt
2. wide leg jeans
3. anything 70's inspired
4. biker jacket (leather or faux leather, whatever fits your budget)
5. a sheer sweater (for layering)
6. Neutrals in pale tans or blushes (pants or skirt)
7. A Breton striped top
8. Bold color tops and bottoms (vary this depending on your life)
9. a pair of neutral booties that can be dressed up or down, heel height is a preference
10.White pants, skirt, or dress

EXTRAS
1. cat eye sunglasses
2. big bangle bracelets

3. anything rose gold
4. obi belts or wide sashes
5. colorful scarves

6. lady-like bags


To view the buying information for the options, click on the picture. It will take you to a site where you can click on each item and get the details.

There are lots of spots for stylish and budget friendly sunglasses. I recommend checking Target, Marshalls, TJ Maxx and other low priced retailers in addition to the net.
Cat Eye Sunglasses

Thrift stores can be treasure troves for jewelry especially things like bangles. I found some great bangles at Goodwill recently for just a few dollars. Be sure to check your local thrift store.
Big Bangle Bracelets

Fine rose gold is crazy expensive and definitely not budget friendly. If you are searching the net or a site, be sure to check for "rose tone" as well as "rose gold".  The options below are in rose tone metal and rose gold over silver.

Rose Gold


The next entry will contain the last of the list.


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