A Little Spring Shopping - May 2015

I may or may not have used shopping for wedding clothes and my weight loss as an excuse to buy some new clothes (and shoes, and a bag, and nail wraps). After hibernating all winter, I want bright colors and fun.

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Jumpsuit - This beauty was my answer to a casual wedding. I wore it with some great silver jewelry from Stella & Dot and the silver sandals. I can also wear it with a white blazer and some pumps to work or with strappy sandals to another event.

Graphic Tees - My affection for fun, graphic tees is well known. These two are fun new additions and nods to two movies I love.

Tropical Print Moto Jacket - This jacket was an impulse buy, which I rarely do anymore. I'm sure it's going to get lots of use because I love it so much. The tropical print is a spring trend but it's a little different done in a moto jacket.

White Jeans - I had to replace the white jeans I donated, because they were too big. I scored a pair similar to these from the Talbots Outlet, for only $34.

Jamberry Nails - I hosted a little Jamberry party for my friends and had quite a few hostess credits. These are a few of the patterns I purchased with my credits. I have become a Jamberry devotee. They look great and last two weeks or more. You can't beat that!

Paris Market Tote - This bag is one of my favorites. I love that I can carry all of my items for work and it still looks chic. I also own it in black.  The black version is on sale for 50% off right now!

Silver Sandals - I needed a neutral pair of sandals that would work for an outdoor wedding but also stand up to wet grass and dirt. I've ruined several pairs of shoes because of poor yard conditions. These were perfect and a great find. I snagged these at Saks Off 5th for $30.

Office to Office Party Style

The Holiday season is almost upon us and no matter how you celebrate, everyone will be attending parties and impromptu gatherings. For me, lots of these events may be planned for the hours immediately after work and involve coworkers. There’s no time to go home and change and because my coworkers are involved, I want to look festive and professional. A great dress fits that bill. By changing up a few accessories and my shoes, I can go from office professional to holiday festive, in a flash.

Printed Mesh Dress

 

I love this dress from Roaman’s. The fitted top and flared skirt are flattering on all body types. The silhouette is especially flattering on my pear shaped frame. The colors of the dress are versatile and mean that it could work year round. You know I’m all about the multi-seasonal clothes. The pattern and piping give it some visual interest. For the office, I would add a blazer, some classic pumps, simple but pretty stud earrings, bracelets, a watch, and a colorful tote to carry my daytime essentials.

Dress/Blazer/Pumps/Bag/Watch/Bracelets/Earrings

 

I’m all about simple, after a long work day. I’d just swap my pumps for some metallic sandals and the blazer for a bolero sweater, (a wrap, or go without a topper,) add a sparkly necklace and a statement bracelet, and swap out my day tote for an evening bag. As you know the sparkly jewelry from Stella and Dot is a regular part of my wardrobe and I’m in love with this evening bag from Zara. You could carry it hands free with the shoulder strap (easier to juggle a cocktail) or tuck in the strap and carry it as a clutch. It would be easy to throw all of the items into a small tote bag and carry them with me. I could make this quick change in my office (or cubicle). To lend additional evening flare, I’d go for a more dramatic lip color, add an extra coat of mascara and I’d be set.

Dress/Bolero Sweater/Heeled Sandals/Bag/Watch/Bracelet/Earrings/Necklace

 

This same method could work on the weekend, with a casual day outfit. Just dress up your jeans and t-shirt with a fancy jacket, heels, and some statement jewelry. The Holidays are a busy time for everyone, simplifying your wardrobe changes will take a bit of the stress away.

 

Disclosure: The opinions expressed in this post are my own. This is a sponsored post.

 

Styling the Basics - Weekend Edition

I feel like it's been a long week already, which is very sad, since it's only Tuesday. I'm already longing for the weekend. I decided to appease my weekend desire and style some of the basic foundation pieces I told you about last week. As I told you these foundation pieces are like a blank canvas for accessories. Just by adding different touches you can change an entire look.

Click the items for buying information.

For me, weekends call for easy walking shoes and layers. I'm usually doing lots of things, activities for organizations, errands, and maybe lunch out with friends. I don't always have time to run home to change, so my outfit has to work for everything. This one works because it's comfortable and stylish but casual enough for the weekend. The bag is great for errands and the standout jacket gives it punch for lunch out with friends. I snagged this jacket, over the weekend at Target (with a left over Christmas gift card). I can't stop wearing it.

 

Just by changing up the shoes, bag and jewelry, this versatile black dress goes from rock show to a date night dinner. The leather jacket and booties give the dress a rocker vibe. The cross body bag works to keep my hands free at a show, where I may be standing the whole night. Swap out the booties for heels and the cross body bag for a clutch. Add some sparkly jewelry and I'm ready for a fancy dinner with {msL}.

Accessories can be the least expensive items in your wardrobe. Starting with basic pieces, you can use them to totally change your look.

Better Exercise with Dr. Scholl's® Active Series® Insoles

My apologies for the long silence. Lots of us in the DC area were impacted by the government shutdown. I work for a contractor to the government and was out of work for 17 days. I used the time to do projects around our house, work on me, and take a little break from technology and the blog. Part of working on me was more exercise. Luckily, right before the shutdown, I received Dr. Scholl's® Active Series® inserts to try (via Influenster). Since I battle Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), I jumped at the chance to try something that could possibly make exercise more enjoyable. Moving is an important part of therapy for RA, which is hard sometimes when you don't feel well. So, I try to find exercise that is good for me but also enjoyable.  I attend Zumba class, do yoga and walk regularly. I wasn't sure that these insoles would really help but decided to give them a try.

The handy guide marks on the underside of the insoles make them easy to cut and adjust to your size.  They come in two sizes for women (and men).  I wear a size nine and received the larger size (8 1/2 - 11).  I removed the insoles that came in my running shoes, cut the insoles to fit and slid them in.  They were a tight fit but I adjusted them and they fit perfectly.  At first I noticed that they made my shoes a bit tighter than the original insoles.  I just adjusted the tightness of my laces. First I tried them at my Zumba classes.  They were great.  In previous sessions I'd noticed some soreness on the bottoms of my feet (before the insoles).  That isn't an issue anymore! No soreness at all. They provided really good arch support as well. Once I tried them at Zumba, I had to give them a try on my regular walks.  I walk with my good friend Joey on Saturday mornings at Potomac Mills Mall.  They have a mall walking program but we just head over early on Saturday mornings for a little gab time and walking.  Joey has lost 150lbs. on Weight Watchers and his main form of exercise has been walking!

Joey and I, all smiles during our walk.

Asics



Jacket - C9 by Champion from Target (sold out but similar here), t-shirt, Yoga Pants - Old Navy (old style but similar here)

There was a little too much window shopping this time so we only got in 3.5 miles.  My new Dr. Scholl's® Active Series® insoles were the star.  They really helped me to enjoy my walk more, with fewer aches and pains. 

Note: My insoles were provided to me via a program through Influenster. The opinions expressed here are my own honest review of this product.

Labor Day Sale Purchases

Over the weekend I took advantage of some of the holiday sale shopping. I stopped by my favorite outlet store, Talbots and I snagged a few shirts from Old Navy.  I couldn't resist a couple of accessory purchases.

 

At the Talbots outlet, I bought this pair of dark red jeans and a pair of patterned ankle pants in shades of blue and pink.  The entire store was on sale for $19.99 or less. I purchased both pairs of pants for only $28!  A few light weight shirts that would transition to fall were on my list. I've been loving light weight sweaters in cool weather. This color block sweater will be great for work or weekends. I have quite a few striped shirts but this wide black and white striped shirt is a bit different and can be work with some of my skirts and printed pants. I had to throw in a fun shirt. Sequins and a fun saying. What's not to love? Old Navy had a 30% off sales this weekend.

This baseball cap is an inexpensive way to add a leather look to my fall outfits and the olive hue is so versatile. At only $12, I couldn't resist. I used my Stella and Dot credits to snag the Sutton necklace for less than $20.

Two pairs of pants, three shirts, a sweater, a cap and a necklace (that can be worn five ways) for a little more than $100. Successful sale shopping!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Transition Pieces

One of the best way to make you fashion dollar go further is to purchase pieces that can be worn in multiple seasons. Using some of your summer pieces in fall and some of your fall pieces in late summer can help you through that time that is both warm and cool.  I've pulled together a collection of pieces that I already own (or own similar items).  Using pieces like these with some basics can help to transition you to fall.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

 

This faux leather peplum top is one of new favorite pieces. I can wear it with these plum jeans on the weekend or with dress pants and a boucle jacket to the office. Add the silver oxfords or the cage booties, a great bag and a statement necklace to finish the outfit.

This embellished sweatshirt stands alone. Wear it with the plum jeans, cage booties, and cap on the weekends or throw it on with a simple solid skirt for the weekdays. It's lightweight enough to wear now in a chilly office or later when there is a chill in the air. This necklace from Stella and Dot can be worn five different ways. It won't over conflict with the embellishment on the sweatshirt.

Easy pieces like these can be worn multiple ways and in lots of weather. Making your dollar go further. 

3.1 Phillip Lim for Target

There has been tons of buzz about the upcoming 3.1 Phillip Lim capsule collection for Target. The collection launches September 15. nHis designs and accessories are sought after by fashion girls all over and his Pashli bag is an "IT bag" right now. I'm wondering if this collection will create the same frenzy that the Missoni collection did. That line even crashed Target's website. I think there are some cool pieces but it isn't the amazing collection that I'd hoped for. Of course none of the clothing will be available in plus sizes. That is standard for Target's designer collections, which always disappoints me. Here are a few of the items that I like. In addition to clothing there will also be shoes, bags and accessories. This collection even includes items for men.

You can view the entire look book here. What do you think? Are you waiting to buy some of the collection?

DIY - Black and Gold Sunnies (nail polish diy #2)

Last year I did a little DIY sunglasses post using nail polish.  It's one of my most popular posts to date. After lots of requests, here is nail polish sunnies DIY, number two.  I spied these sunglasses and knew they were just begging for a DIY. I found a pair of black, plastic sunglasses and grabbed my gold nail polish.

photo credit: eatsleepwear

SUPPLIES

Sunglasses $9.99

Gold nail polish $.50 Full bottle $3 (already owned)

Clear nail polish $.50 Full bottle $5 (on sale but already owned)

Nail polish remover

Cotton swab

_________________

TOTAL $10.99 (with tons of polish left over)

Kenneth Cole Sunglasses       $90

SAVED $79.01!!

I've searched high and low and can't find the inspiration sunglasses anywhere.  Kenneth Cole sunglasses average about $90 a pair.  With a little nail polish and about an hour of your time, you can create your own!

I started by taping off the frame with blue painter's tape.  You could use any type of tape that you have, as long as it's not super sticky. I think painter's tape is best because it doesn't leave any residue.  After taping off the frame, I wiped the area I wanted to paint with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover.  This helps the polish to adhere better. Then I started painting.

I applied three very thin coats, using Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear polish in Golden-I. It has a great metallic sheen without being glittery.  Once I was happy with the coverage of the gold polish and it was dry to the touch, I painted two coats of clear polish and removed the tape.

I'm very happy with the result. My DIY sunnies look very similar to the higher end pair and they will definitely be coming with me on my beach trip next week.



inside shot



full sun shot (lipstick - Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in Shocking Coral, Necklace - Target no longer available)

Frugal Fashion Friday - Summer Beach Style Under $20

Every year I look forward to our family beach trip. Over the years I've learned that less is more and items that do double duty are the best. I live in swimsuits, sandals and easy dresses.  Our days are spent on the beach and afternoons and evenings are spent hanging out with the family at the beach house. There is no need for fancy outfits. I enjoy the ease of a sundress and a few simple pieces of jewelry. In case you're headed to the beach this summer, here are a few of my favorite items.



Click the photos above for buying details.

 

A simple wide brimmed sun hat is mandatory for me at the beach.  I wear tons of sunscreen but I also wear a hat. Years ago I bought a wide brimmed straw hat like this one and it is my go to hat for the beach every year. Reading this article in W just confirmed that I'm on the right track when it comes to sun protection. In addition to my hat, I always wear sunglasses, they look great and protect my eyes. This pair looks a lot like a designer pair that costs $138. At $9.99 these are a great deal and they have 100% UVA/UVB protection.

This maxi dress from Old Navy can be worn to the beach or out in the afternoon. You can even change it up by added a belt or a scarf. Multiple wears and less stuff in your suitcase.  A cover up and an evening sundress all in one. Just from their name you know the Double Wear Floating Beaded Elastics from Goody do double duty.  They can be worn on your wrist as a bracelet and when you need to put your hair up, there they are. Pretty and functional. I own three pairs of simple sandals from Kohl's that I purchased almost 10 years ago. I wear them all summer and they've held up well.  They don't make the style I own any longer but these sandals from LC by Lauren Conrad come in ten different colors.  You can wear them to the beach and then out later.

Pretty earrings, like these from Stella and Dot, are a must have for me at the beach.  They are easy to throw on, no matter my hair style and they don't stick to my sweaty summer skin.  They can elevate a simple dress, like the maxi and make it look a bit fancy. Bonus, they are on sale for half price! Pretty toes are also a must for me at the beach.  I love a bright color like this coral.

I always attach a watch to my beach bag. I could sit in the sun all day but it's not good for me. Knowing the time, helps me be smart about my sun exposure. This watch is chic enough to wear out but if something happened to it at the beach, I wouldn't be upset. Speaking of beach bags, this tote from Target is fun and easy to haul to the beach with my sunscreen and magazines.  It's cotton and isn't lined, sand will be easy to shake out and you can wash it without worry. Hydration is important when you are in the sun.  This water bottle from UncommonGoods will save the planet from disposable bottles and infuse your water with flavor.

Can you believe that every item is less than $20!?  Just proving that great beach style doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Recent Purchases - Fashion, Fitness, and Organization

Lately, I've been really trying to keep my purchases to a minimum.  All of our extra money is going toward the wedding and saving for our upcoming Honeymoon.  I've limited my fashion purchases to items that have been on my must have list.  I'm also working on accomplishing some of my goals for organization and expanding my exercise routine. Then of course there is the wedding. I'm carefully curating my purchases to meet these goals and not to break my budget.

Two things that have been on my must have list for some time are a foil print sweater and low heel pumps.  I found this fantastic foil print sweater at Kohl's for only $34!  That's a far cry from the over $100 sweater I originally fell in love with.  I know it will be in heavy rotation until warm weather arrives.  I love heels but my Rheumatoid Arthritis makes it hard for me to wear high heels every day.  I've found myself gravitating toward all of my kitten heels (about 2" high).  They satisfy my urge for heels but are low enough for me to wear all day without pain in my feet and ankles. These adorable red bow pumps from Talbots were a steal at only $26.

I've set a few goals for myself this year.  An important one was decluttering our home and making it more organized.  I've been slowly cleaning out drawers and cabinets and organizing the remaining items with storage boxes and bins.  I've purchased some from Target and quiet a few from the dollar store.  Another big goal of mine was to take up some new forms of exercise.  I've never been a runner but decided to sign up for a 5K. It's not the first choice from someone with joint issues but I am never one to shy away from a challenge.  The Color Run is a fun way to do a 5K.  I'll be making a tutu to run in and running with some friends.  I needed some cold weather friendly running gear for training, like this jacket.  I grabbed it on the sale rack at Target.  I also needed a new pair of running shoes. These are ASICS, my favorite brand.  I'm using an iPhone app to get ready for the September run.  It's called C25K.  It's a free app. There are quite a few out there but this is the one I'm using. You start out with a combo of running and walking. The app synchs with your music and beeps when you change from walking to running and then back.  It's great.

There are also quite a few things on my wedding list.  Things like additional makeup items I need and items to wear.  I sprung for a really expensive bra a couple weeks ago. I've also been searching for a pair of fancy flats to wear, in case my heels become too much.  I found these gold sparkly flats and love them. Even better they are on sale at Talbots.com for only $20.99.  I've read great reviews of Urban Decay Primer Potion.  People swear by it as a way to make sure your eyeshadow doesn't fade.  Even long wearing eye shadow fades on my oily eyelids.  I really hope it lives up to the hype. I will keep you posted. 

Have you made any great purchases recently?

Frugal Fashion Friday - GOLD Rush under $50

Normally gold isn't my first choice but this week I spied the sweater below and then did a little window shopping on the Stella & Dot website.  There are some amazing gold pieces in their new collection.  Since it's Friday, I thought I'd stick with our frugal theme and find some great gold items under $50.

Cross body bags are a weekend staple for me.  At under $15 this one from Target is perfect.  These statement earrings from Stella and Dot are amazing! They're gold but I love that it's almost an accent to the creamy stones and the rhinestones. Over the summer I scored a pair of sunglasses almost exactly like these from Urban Outfitters. They are a fun alternative to my standard black frames. The gold beads of this Stella and Dot necklace look like stones and I love that it compliments the Foundation bracelet (with tiny green stones) without looking too matchy matchy. This green and gold cocktail ring from Stella and Dot is equal parts vintage and cool.  All of the Stella and Dot pieces work well together.  The chunky heel and cap toe of these blue suede pumps make them look like a pair my Mom owned in the 60's.  The bright blue is fun.  I've been on the hunt for a new iPhone case.  These used combined or alone create five different looks.  The cut out gold cover is so sophisticated.

Searching for all of these fun items has given me a new appreciation for gold.  Do you love gold?

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Menswear

Sorry for the lack of posting. I've been and am still a bit under the weather.

There are only two trends left in our Fall 2012 Runway Trends series.  Today it's one of my all time faves, Menswear.  I love borrowing from the boys.  It's fun to wear oxfords and an occasional tie.  As much as I love dresses and skirts, pants are always comfortable.  The trick is wearing the menswear trend in a feminine way.  You can embrace the trend without looking like you are trying to be a man.

When I am embracing menswear, I think it's best to start with the basics. You can never go wrong with a great fitting pair of pinstripe pants. A basic white button up shirt is a staple for menswear style as well. A tailored blazer can be worn with dress pants as well as with jeans or shorts. It's a polished piece that will pull your entire outfit together.

If you just want to add a touch of menswear, go for accessories. I own several pairs of oxfords and love them as an alternative to sneakers.  The new crop comes in tons of colors and styles, like this metallic pair with blue soles from Target.  If you love heels, you can grab a pair of heeled loafers or oxfords.  They work with skirts or pants.  A little over a year ago I was introduced to Ginger Root Designs.  They have a great little boutique in DC or you can check out their online shop.  These ladies create the most fantastic upcycled clothing and menswear style accessories for women.  I'm in love with their Lady Ties.  These fantastic accessories are created from old and damaged men's ties and sometimes vintage buttons.  Not into ties?  Throw on a newsboy cap or grab a cross body satchel.  This one, in oxblood, by The Leather Satchel Company has a top handle which gives it a briefcase feel.  Top it off with a large men's style wrist watch.  It lends that menswear feel without being overpowering.

With just a few additions, it's easy to sport the menswear trend.

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - White

Remember the fashion rule, "No White After Labor Day"?  Well, completely disregard that old and outdated rule.  This fall, white is HOT.  It was all over the runway in the shows for fall 2012, in all sorts of combinations.  Black and white combined was a big trend. White blouses have always been a year round staple but white was seen in pants, coats, jackets and in entire outfits.

I snagged a new white blazer that I've been sporting regularly. A winter white coat is polished an beautiful.  This one from Land's End even give a nod to the military trend with it's pea coat style.  You can never go wrong with white jewelry, year round.  It goes with everything and these pearl and enamel pieces from Stella & Dot, are fun and classic pieces you'll be able to wear for years. Pearls are a great way to do white jewelry.  A white watch is already part of my wardrobe.  The one looks like a more expensive designer style but it's less than $20.  Lace works with this year's brocade trend.  A top or a dress with lace is a pretty addition to your fall outfits.  Just add a jacket or a cardigan and they can be worn well into winter. White pants in the fall?  Yes, pair them with a chunky sweater and some boots and you'll have a fantastic weekend outfit.  This top handle bag by Dooney & Bourke, with brown accents will work with all of your fall favorites.  I'm in love with these winter white, flat boots.  The neutral color will go great with pants or a wool skirt when the temps drop.

Are you going to wear white this fall or are you sticking to the old rule?

Vacation Recap - Fun, Sun, DIY, and Beach Hair

As I type this, my brain is filled with all of the things that I have to do at work tomorrow.  We are reluctantly home from vacation.  It was a great week. I firmly believe that I pay for vacation before I leave and after I return.  My email box was packed with unread messages and I'm still catching up on work while attending every meeting that exists. Tonight I may need a vacation from my vacation. I'm planning an evening swim and and early bed time.  There may also be wine involved. I'm trying to get back to blogging as well. I've missed you all.  Since time is limited I thought I'd share some pictures from our vacation.

From top to bottom....

• My soon to be, sister in law Erin works for a sailing and boating company.  She got us the rental of two kayaks for the week. That's Erin sitting in the kayak (and my other sister in law Mary, she coordinates our yearly trip).   
• DIY ring made from copper wire.  I made a quick trip the local hardware store on our first rainy day and grabbed some wire, pliers and other crafty items.  DIY details coming soon.
• Sarah (my soon to be niece) standing in front of the wild horses.  I snagged this one from her facebook page (thanks Sarah!).
• One of my beach hair styles. This one made me feel like a kid. I don't think I've worn pigtails in years. Glasses are Foster Grant from Walgreens (similar). Hat is Eugenia Kim for Target from a few years ago (seen here). 
• Nightly, family volleyball game. The house we rent has a volleyball court on the attached lot. I didn't get any pictures but we also use the court for the BeerLympics. It's a crazy, drunken obstacle course that starts with holding a bat and turning in a circle ten times!
• All of our SUVs and Jeep lined up next to our towels and chairs. Our 4-wheel drive on the beach.  In this section of the Outer Banks it's legal to drive your vehicle on the beach. It was an wonderful day.
• It's not crowded at all.  I love these photos of my family in the distance walking on the beach and in the surf.  
• Me with beach hair, french braided and posing with Liz. Swimsuit from Target (no longer available).

The beach is still calling but I'll have to be satisfied with pool time. 

Frugal Fashion Friday - Outfit Crush for Friday's Fancies

My recent obsession with floral pants is well documented. I found and ordered floral pants from ASOS.  I got them for the bargain price of $35!  I was thrilled but my difficult to fit lower body doesn't always mean that my orders will work. I tried them on and YAAAY! they fit.  They were a little large in the waist, which always happens for me. If pants fits my hips and booty, then they are almost always too big in the waist. I just take them in a bit and they work well.  I know I'm not the only pants challenged girl out there.  We all have issues, shorter legs, longer torso, long legs, and on and on. We all know that pain. 

Today's challenge for Friday's Fancies was "Outfit Crush".  I decided to duplicate an outfit that I pinned to my "Style I Should Try" board on Pinterest, Blair Eadie of Atlantic-Pacific's chic floral pants outfit.  I couldn't wait to try it using my two new bargain purchases, floral pants from ASOS and striped top from Talbots Outlet.

photo credit: Atlantic-Pacific

I have to confess that I have a huge style crush on Blair Eadie.  Plus, she's a Virginia girl (like me) who now lives in Cali (I wish).  What's not to love?  She's taken the polished style of lady like Virginia society and mixed it with the laid back cool of California.This outfit incorporates those elements, statement bag, crisp white jacket, chic updo and designer sunnies combined with the print mixing of stripes and floral with those amazing blue booties. I had to try my hand at recreating this amazing outfit.

Jacket - Target (similar), Top - Talbots Outlet (similar), Pants - ASOS (no longer available more here), Bag - DSW, Shoes - Nine West via DSW, Sunglasses - Chanel, Bracelets - c/o Stella & Dot, ASOS and Vintage, Watch - Timex (gift), Earrings - Target, Rings - DIY and Engagement

I'm sure you are wondering how this could possibly be a bargain outfit.  This is the breakdown. I purchased the pants for $35 on sale.  The top at the Talbots Outlet for $16 and the shoes at DSW with coupons and rewards for $20.  I have owned the jacket and the bag for many years, so I'm recycling.  The gorgeous Stella & Dot bracelets were a gift from my amazing stylist, Kristin Biggs. I made the ring myself when I took a metal casting class several years ago.  The watch, bangles and my engagement ring were gifts.  The only item I paid full price for was the sunglasses.  I've owned them for eight years and I wear them often so they've paid for themselves many times over (great cost per wear).  They are timeless.

Check out the Renegade Cluster Bracelet, Revival Bracelet, and Toujours Bracelet c/o Stella & Dot

Who is your style crush or outfit crush?  I'd love to hear about your inspiration.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

DIY - Metallic Skull

Oh Pinterest, what did I ever do before you came along?  About two weeks ago I pinned a brass skull to my DIY Pinterest board.  I love skulls to wear, for decoration, in photos, and on and on.  I just love them.  When I spied the brass skull I just knew it would be my next DIY.  As luck would have it, I bought a bunch of plastic skulls from Target after Halloween last year. I wanted the skull to be silver instead of brass.  So I grabbed one plastic skull and the can of Krylon Chrome spray paint and went to work. 

Inspiration - HomeMint Brass Skull $349.99

At $349.99 I would not be buying this skull.  It looks amazing, but not for that price.  I knew I could get a similar look with my plastic skull and a little spray paint. Check out all the details after the jump.

One Jacket - Two Graduation Options

On Friday we are going to a graduation and I'm trying to decide what to wear.  I want to look chic but also be comfortable since there could be lots of walking and there will be lots of sitting. A few years ago, I bought a white blazer from Target. It was a great purchase and I love wearing it all summer.  I thought I'd pair that white blazer with two different outfits and get your opinion on which one I should wear.

Eddie Bauer Stretch Cotton Twill Blazer (Sizes 2-20)

A dress...

Click on the photo above to see where to buy.

I already own most of the pieces (or similar pieces) to this ensemble.  I love pairing the flowy dress and flower with tough jewelry.  The school's colors are blue and gold, so the dress will fit right in. Of course I had to add my favorite necklace from Stella & Dot, the Femme Fatale.

Floral pants...

Click on the photo above to see where to buy.

My floral pants from Asos arrived in the mail late yesterday.  I haven't had a chance to try them on but I'm hoping they will look great. I have a top that is similar to this one but I'm also considering a solid top.  I love the striped top with floral pants look. I showed you an example of this look in a past post, via Alison of Wardrobe Oxygen.  The chunky Nouvelle Ring from Stella & Dot is a great addition to the outfit.



Which outfit do you like best?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Rock the White

The best laid plans... Originally I had planned to do an outfit post.  I loved the outfit I wore yesterday. It was a bit of an 80's flashback but also current.  I mixed black and white with neon colors. I was wearing a sheer maxi with an underskirt.  My Honey {msL} took some photos and when I began to crop them, I realized that my Spanx were showing in every photo, all the way to the top of my thighs!  Obviously, I was too eager to take photos an didn't take the time to check my outfit in the mirror.  Oh Well.  Here is a cropped shot, minus the Spanx.

Jacket - One Stop Plus (no longer available, similar here), Tank - Target (no longer available, similar here), Skirt - Nordstrom (no longer available, similar here), Necklace - c/o Stella & Dot, Kristin Biggs, Bracelet - DIY via Goodwill, Shoes - DIY

My sweet pup Blue joined me during pictures.  He was also featured this week as a Fashion Dog on my friend Vyque's blog, Fasshonaburu.  Since my outfit featuring bargain buys, DIY and Stella & Dot didn't work out, I decided to join the lovely bloggers on Long Distance Loving for today's Friday's Fancies post, Rock the White. Check out how I add color to my white after the jump.

Frugal Fashison Friday - Date Night Edition

Last Friday's post for Friday's Fancies was so much fun that I decided to join again today.  The theme is Date Night and this one is perfect for today.  My Honey and I are having a date night tonight!  We attend the local Unitarian Universalist Congregation and tonight they are having a movie and sing along night to The Sound of Music! I know it sounds corny but I think it will be great.  The entry fee is food for the food pantry.  There will be a concession stand where we can buy snacks.  It's a very laid back place and dressing up or wearing super high heels isn't necessary so I picked an easy outfit that's worthy of date night but a little on the casual side.

Jacket - Newport News Boxy Tweed Jacket $69

Top - Old Navy Sleeveless Cowl Neck Top $14

Jeans - NYDJ Boyfriend Roll Up Cuff Jeans $88

Shoes - Nine West Punchy in Pewter $59.99

Bag -Target Xhilaration Neon Yellow/Green Clutch $19.99
Necklace and Bracelet - DIY Neon Yellow bead necklace and bracelet (from Goodwill)
Lipstick - Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor in Fuchsia Fever $7.49
Canned Goods for the Food Pantry - Find Your Local Food Pantry

I have a black tweed jacket that I added chain to.  It was a fun and easy DIY (details here).  Before I added the chain, I hardly ever wore the jacket. Now I wear it often. I love simple tees with interesting details, like this cowl neck. I have quite a few pairs of jeans. They are only two brands, Lane Bryant and Not Your Daughter's Jeans (NYDJ). I love NYDJ jeans because they fit my pear shaped body really well.  I never have to worry about them riding too low in the back. They have just enough stretch and they come in tons of styles.  They are more expensive than other brands but worth it because they retain their shape and color wash after wash. I just got these shoes at DSW. I wasn't able to find them on line in the pewter color but they are great shoes and I'd consider buying them in almost every color. I got them for less than $30 because of DSW certificates. Obviously I love this bag. I've featured it in two posts in a row. Guess that means I've made my decision about my clutch buy. The necklace and bracelets aren't in the collage above but you can see them here in my DIY post. They are a fun addition to the neon trend and were so easy and inexpensive to make. I've been wearing this lipstick constantly. The pink color is so much fun and a great spring alternative to red.

Did you know that one in six people in the United States go hungry every day?  With the economy in such a rough place, food banks need help more than ever. They are terribly depleted and need money and food.  They also need volunteers. Please consider helping out your local food back. 

I hope you all have a fun date night planned soon. A date night doesn't have to be a date with someone romantic, it can be a date night with your friends.  Have a great weekend.

HAPPY FRIDAY REAL GIRLS!

In the Clutch of Spring - Picks Under $50

I find myself wanting a new spring clutch but since we are saving for our wedding, my monthly budget for fashion purchases is $50 or less. My criteria for this new clutch aren't difficult. It has to be big enough for day, be a fun color or a neutral and most importantly it can't cost more than $50. I found some great options.

1) ASOS Hand Slot Through Clutch - $36.36

2) Target Xhilaration Yellow/Green Neon Patent Clutch - $19.99

3) Baghaus Urban Expressions Large Envelope Clutch in Light Gold - $35

4) Forever 21 Embellished Tribal Clutch - $27.80

I love all of these for different reasons.  They are definitely on trend.  I love the hand slot on the ASOS clutch and its turquoise shade is perfect for spring.  The Target clutch has extra room thanks to the fun double design. Neon is everywhere right now.  The Baghaus clutch could carry me from day to night and thanks to the metallic finish it would go with everything I own.  Tribal designs were all over the runway. This embellished clutch from Forever 21 does the trend without making you look like you are on safari. 

I love them all. Now I have to pick just one...