Frugal Fashion Friday - Fall 2012 Trends Under $150

It's no good to look at the Fall 2012 Runway Trends if you can't make them work in your real life or your real budget. I picked one item from each of the categories that I think would be a great purchase. Almost all of the items are under $100!

White - A winter white pea coat is a classic staple that you will be able to wear for years to come.  It will work with different styles and outfits.

Plaid - The bleached style of this plaid shirt makes it more current.  I love the colors and the ombre look with the bleach. You can wear the trend without any hint of lumber jack.

Graphic Prints - The painterly print of this dress makes it fun. The style and cut of the dress makes it work for all body types.  I can see it with a motorcycle jacket and flats for a casual day or with heels and a blazer for work.

Military - An anorak military style jacket will take you everywhere.  I love it with jeans and a tee or with a flirty dress (like the graphic print dress).

Brocade & Embroidery - There are lots of brocade options this season but I love the idea of a brocade party dress.  These resemble items that were shown at Ralph Lauren and are much more expensive.

Menswear - A classic pinstripe pant can be worn lots of ways. The cut of these pants is ultra flattering and the navy is less expected that black.

Bordeaux - A classic pump is a great addition.  The bordeaux (oxblood or wine) color makes it on trend.  They would look great with almost every item I've selected.  If heels aren't your thing, go for a ballet or pointed toe flat.

Leather - A leather pencil skirt takes the rock n' roll of leather and makes it work for everyone.  If you add a blazer and a blouse, you could wear it to the office.  Throw on a concert t-shirt and some high heel booties and you'll be ready to go out.

There are so many affordable options available.  Look at the trend and figure out ways to make it suit you. If you want to try out the trend, look for an inexpensive piece and try it out.  You could also hit up your local thrift store or clothing swap.   You can make a trend fit your personal style.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Inspiration - The Hunger Games

This weekend marks the opening of the highly anticipated movie, The Hunger Games.  If you haven't read the books, I highly recommend all three. They are quick, easy reads and they're riveting. I couldn't put them down. What I love most about these books is that the female heroine, Katniss Everdeen is strong, tough and driven by her love of family, friendship and loyalty instead of (as many recent heroines) by a boy.  There is love in the story background but it is secondary. She's a great literary role model for young girls.  She's determined, loving, and honorable.

Many times I don't hold out much hope when a beloved book comes to the big screen. This time, I'm excited.  I am looking forward to seeing how the books have been translated for movie audiences. In honor of the movie, I thought I'd pull together some items inspired by Katniss' wardrobe.  All of these items could hold out through many seasons and trends. 

An anorak jacket is on trend this season. The leather gives it an edge and it's an item that could be worn for many years.  Braids are the hairstyle of choice for Katniss.  You can create your own version using clear elastics and bobby pins that match your own hair color.  Katniss is the "Girl On Fire" in a red dress during her introduction at the Capitol.  This red dress could take you to a great party.  A versatile backpack can store your laptop or your carry on items for the airplane. Cargo pants are perfect for a hike in the woods or around town on errands.  A zip pull over is the perfect work out top.  Black patent ballet flats are truly a classic piece of footwear.  I don't know what I ever did without a pair of lug sole boots.  They look cute with a skirt and I love them over jeans.  Three neutral shades from the China Glaze Hunger Games collection. Panem may be the future but the style can translate to today.

Will you be seeing The Hunger Games?