Scenes from the Beach 2014

I'm sad that our vacation is ending tomorrow. I love the beach and the sand and the fun. It's been a relaxing time and the forecast today is calling for rain. We'll spend our time doing a little shopping. There are lots of fun memories of our week.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Beach Packing - Must Have List

We leave for our annual beach trip on Saturday. Every year when I pack, I promise myself that I won't overpack. I pledge that I will take less and that I will wash clothes if needed. That pledge hasn't exactly worked out well in the past. We rent a house with a washer and dryer. There is no reason I need to bring tons of clothes. It's just more "stuff" to bring. But the fashionista in me is always afraid that I will get there and won't have what I want to wear. It is likely a fashion girl freakout instead of a real fear. We are at the beach in North Carolina, after all. Everyone is wearing casual clothes and relaxing. It's not a see and be seen kind of place. I am working hard to stick to the "no overpacking" mantra this year. I've created my must have list and the other items will be held to a minimum.

My Goodwill Trunk Show Caftan

Jersey Dress

San Diego Hat Company Sun Hat

Target Panama Hat (I bought mine last year.)

 

DIY Cut Off Shorts

Ray Ban Green Mirror Aviators (great prices on amazon.com)

Silver Birkenstocks

Gold Gladiator Sandals (bought on amazon.com)

Sarong (bought years ago)

 

Of course bathing suits are on my list but the items above are the additional ones that I can't live without. Some are new (the gladiators, aviators, and the caftan) but the rest are old standbys and items I wore often last year. Add a couple of t-shirts and tank tops and I will be set. By choosing silver and gold sandals, I can minimize the shoes I take. These metallic shades work with everything. I'd also never go to the beach without a big hat and sunscreen. Neutrogena is my favorite face lotion because of the high SPF and it doesn't make me break out. Hawaiin Tropic lotion is always my choice for my body, when I'm lounging. I love the smell. When I'm active, I use a spray that is water resistant like Coppertone Sport. Please be safe and don't forget your sunscreen. Just one burn can damage your skin for a lifetime. I'm battling brown spots that are the result of sun damage from my teens and twenties.

 

 



 

 

What are your beach must haves?

 



Lessons I've Learned from Over Packing circa 2013

I try hard not to over pack but I don't think I've ever travelled and used every item in my bag. I always pack too many, just in case items.  This past week was our annual beach trip. Try as I did to only pack the necessary, I still over packed.  My biggest mistake this year was packing at the last minute. I have had super busy weeks at work lately and didn't feel like packing when I got home. In summers past, I laid out my travel items. This year, I thought I would show you what I took with me and what I should have taken.

First the items I took with me. I didn't include my bras and undies. Also, these are similar to items I own but not all of them are exact. I've divided my clothing into beach and non beach items.

 

Items packed:
2 pairs of cropped pants (3 total, wore one pair to the beach)
6 tank tops
5 t-shirts
2 fancier tops (wore one to the beach)
2 pairs of cut off shorts
2 dresses (sundress and a cap sleeve jersey dress)
2 skirts
2 cover ups
2 bathing suits (4 pieces)
2 sarongs
work out pants
socks
bras
undies
2 pairs of sandals
2 pairs of flip flops
1 pair of running shoes
1 large brim sun hat
1 panama hat
3 pairs of earrings
3 bracelets
Kindle
various magazines
book
craft projects

I didn't need three pairs of pants. I didn't need all of the jewelry I took. We don't go out at night. We cook dinner at the house and hang out and play volleyball. I didn't need two dresses and two skirts. I wore my cut offs most of the time. I took a pair that was frayed and a pair I cut in a scallop pattern.

Above are the items that went to the beach with me on various days. I definitely didn't need two cover-ups or three pairs of sunglasses. I also wished that I had a one piece suit instead of two sets of separates. I packed it all in my large suitcase.  We have a washer and dryer at the house and I always throw a load of laundry in while we are there. It's easy to do laundry while you're drinking at night. It makes it less like work. If I had condensed I could have packed it all in my small carry on size suitcase.

I didn't wear these items at all:
sundress
1 skirt
3 tank tops
1 t-shirt
white cropped pants
2 pairs of earrings
1 bracelet
1 pair of flip flops, not pictured

I wish I had taken:
A thin sweater or sweatshirt
another pair of cute diy cutoffs (these have not been created yet)

While at the beach, my dress is incredibly casual. We don't go out at night, instead we enjoy time at the house. {msL} and I had one date afternoon lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant. But it's the beach and a casual dress or embellished sandals is about as fancy as folks get. It's North Carolina, not South Beach. I really believe I would have been better served to reduce my clothing to the items below.

 

Instead of all of the skirts and the extra sundress, I should have taken a maxi dress and a short sleeve dress. I should have also taken a pair of aviators. I took a pair last year and I missed them this year. I should have taken one statement necklace and one pair of earrings. That's all I need. I should have skipped the two cover ups and just taken one sarong. It was chilly a couple of nights and I wished that I had a pull over sweatshirt. I took a 3/4 sleeve casual jacket but it wasn't warm. I should have also added one cute top, but I'm still contemplating the style I should take.

Hopefully, I will learn my lesson next year and pack a little better. My super organized sister is going on a trip to Italy later this month, with only a carry-on. I'm in awe.

Beach Scenes 2013

This week is our annual family beach trip. I'm focusing on family and fun this week. Blogging has taken a backseat but I thought I would share some photos with you that I've snapped of our fun.

Our first evening here we took the kids down to the beach to play a but before bed.

A late night wicked storm rolled in and washed us out.

This morning the kids got to play in the huge puddles created by the storm.

I always bring craft projects for the week. It's my relaxation time. This week I created two new cell phone cases.

There will be other DIY projects coming this week.

This quartz skull pendant is my best vacation purchase so far. I can't wait to add it to my favorite silver chain and rock it with a concert t-shirt.

We all take turns cooking. Tonight is my nephew Tommy's turn. The best part is that I get to drink wine (or vodka) and watch someone else cook.

There will be more vacation fun soon. Have a great day and night Real Girls!

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!

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 - Heading to the Beach

Hi friends.  I owe you all a bit of an apology.  I haven't had any time this week to do a blog post. It's been crazy.  My paying job has been really busy.  Between work and getting ready to leave I haven't had a minute.

I pinned this picture (on Pinterest) a little while ago and when I got stressed, I'd look at it and think of vacation.  We are leaving tomorrow!!! We rent a beach house for the week with family.  To save money we are taking lots of food (and drinks) with us.  I've been couponing and hitting sales. {msL}and I are taking over $300 worth of food that cost us less than $100.  My friends and I have started a facebook group to share our coupon tips and favorite resources with friends.  I even give tips on finding deals on beauty products. Check it out when you have time. It's called The Crazy Coupon Bitches.

I know this post is lacking in fashion but I promise to share more fashion with you this week. Maybe even a post or two from the beach.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Easy Summer Beach Hair

I'm a bit of a hair chameleon.  Throughout my life, I've regularly grown out and then cut my hair.  I've never been afraid to try a new style. Usually when summer rolls around, I cut my hair shorter because I long for easy, stress free hair.  I've had to fight that urge this summer.  I really want a messy up do for our wedding next April.  I'm starting to hear that little voice that says, "Cut your hair Deb! It's easier to manage!"  If I cave to my inner voice and cut my hair really short, I won't have enough time to grow it out before next April. Hats are always my beach go to. When I leave the beach and venture out later in the day, I usually ditch my hat.  A cute hairstyle is definitely in order.

My Favorite Beach Hat

Because of this I've been contemplating easy beach hairstyles for our vacation next week.  On Saturday we leave for a week in the Outerbanks of North Carolina.  My goal this year is to go even more simple than in years past and to pack very light.  I'm going to leave the curling iron and blow dryer at home. I know, I'm even shocking myself!

A top french braid or front braid will keep my hair out of my face.  I don't wear my hat when I go in the water so these styles will look chic and keep my hair out of my face.

French Braid - source

Front Braid - via The Beauty Department

Pig tails or a side braid will work on the beach and after the beach.  If I let my hair dry while wearing braids, I'll have loose waves when I take them down.

Marilyn's Pigtails

Lauren's Side Braid - from The Beauty Department

Instead of fighting the texture I'll get from the ocean and wind, I'll use it to my advantage and go for a messy pony tail or a messy up do.  If I add a flower to my messy up do, it will look more polished for evening.

Use Beachy Texture - Create a Messy Pony

Use Beachy Texture and a Flower - Create a Messy Updo for Evening

I have really straight, non-curly hair.  Usually to get waves I need to use a curling iron or hot rollers.  Since I'm not bringing those with me, I could use my damp beach hair to create pretty waves.  I love the tutorial from Maegan of ...love Maegan on using a soft headband to create waves.  I've used butterfly clips many times to create waves.

Roll Damp Hair in a Headband for Loose Waves - from ...love Maegan

Create Waves Using Butterfly Clips - Instructions Here

How do you style your hair at the beach?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Beach Trip Style

Today's Friday's Fancies challenge is beach style.  I knew I could come up with great style on a budget for our upcoming beach trip to the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  It's an awesome family trip that I look forward to every year.  I try not to over pack but still have great style.  Today's outfit fits that bill in full retro style and for a bargain.

Beach Chic by realgirlrunway featuring a slimming swimwear

Retro Swimsuit, $33
Flat thong sandals, $36
Sequin tote bag, $21
Stella & Dot black pearl bangle, $22
Stella & Dot pave jewelry, $24
Chiffon Maxi Cover-Up, $25
Silver and White striped sun hat, $23
Rounded Cat Eye Sunglasses!, $5.99
L'Oreal Sublime Sun Advanced Sunscreen Hydra Lotion Spray SPF30 $11
La Roche Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid., $30
Spoiled Nail Color Shrimp On The Barbie, $1.49

I've had a retro style swimsuit on my list for a few summers.  This year, I might actually buy one.  A retro halter suit with runching is flattering to all body types. I never hit the beach without a great hat.  It's stylish, I don't have to think about my hair and it's a great way to keep wrinkles at bay by protecting my face from the sun. A few simple pieces of jewelry are it for me at the beach.  Stud earrings like these from Stella & Dot are pretty and won't get in the way when you are active.  The stretch bracelet is easy to slide off before you get in the water.  Fun retro shades are definitely on the bill.  I love sunglasses and own way too many pairs but these are only $5.99 from GirlPROPS.  You can afford to own more than one pair.  I always take a book, my towel, water and extra sunscreen to the beach, this sequin bag is perfect for a fun way to tote your stuff.  Cute sandals and pretty toe nails are always on the bill for my beach trips.  I love this pink and orange shimmery polish. The name cracks me up: Shrimp on the Barbie, Spoiled by Wet n' Wild.

You've read my tirades before about using sunscreen and protecting your skin. I look for bargains everywhere but I never skimp when it comes to sunscreen, especially for my face. I can replace a suit or pair of flip flops but once you get wrinkles or melanoma, you can't go back. I've taken the Sun Savvy pledge and wear sunscreen every day and even more at the beach. Most people don't apply sunscreen correctly or often enough.  This site has great tips. Don't worry you'll still get a great tan.  

Nothing on this list is over $40!  Great bargain style finds for any beach.

Do you have beach or pool plans?  It's supposed to be over 100 all weekend here in DC.  I think I'll be trying out my beach style this weekend.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Silver Summer Accents

Summer always brings out the gold accessories.  I know gold looks great with a tan but personally, I love silver.  I've always preferred it to gold and that doesn't change for me in the summer months.  In about a week and half we are leaving for our annual summer beach trip.  I've started thinking about the things I'm going to pack and how I want to be more simple than in years past. A few great accessories can carry me through the whole week. These silver beauties fit that bill perfectly.

1) Stella & Dot Valen Pendant Necklace, $39 - This necklace is the perfect mix of class and beach.  The coral like branches are pretty but not over powering for a beachy outfit.
2) Wayfarer Style Sunglasses with Metallic Finish, $5.99 - A fun alternative to the traditional black wayfarers and so affordable you can buy them in more than one color.
3) Stella & Dot Devi bangles, $44 - These are the perfect compliment to the necklace or you can wear them alone with shorts and a tank.
4) Nars The Multiple in Copacabana, $39 - Make up that does double duty is a must for me at the beach. I never wear foundation and like to only carry a few products with me. This can be used for eyes, lips and cheeks and it has a pretty sheen to it that brightens your skin.
5) Silver Sequin Canvas Tote Bag, $20 - A roomy but pretty beach bag is a must. The house we rent is about a block from the beach. I always cart my book, towel, sunscreen and water with me.  This bag is perfect.
6) REVLON Colorstay Nail Enamel in Sequin, $4.40 - I love this metallic silver polish. It's neutral and it's long wearing, which means it will survive the week on my toes, fingers or both.
7) Candie's Thong Sandals, $36 - A great silver sandal is my perfect beach footwear. You can wear it to the beach during the day or out to dinner at night. 

As I get closer to leaving for our beach trip, I'll tell you more about what I'll be taking with me.  What are your favorite beach accessories?

Poolside and Oceanfront - Bargain Style Picks

We are hosting a backyard grad pool party next weekend and of course I'm already thinking about my outfit.  As one of the hosts, I want to look stylish, a little dressy but be comfortable.  We'll be hosting lots of parties this summer and we have our summer beach trip in July.  I wanted my selections to last through the summer and beyond.  Of course, I go for quality as well as a good price.

Poolside and Oceanfront Style

1. Cover-up -  I usually choose a sarong but I'd love to grab a fun new maxi cover up. This one is colorful and pretty but not too heavy. 
2. Earrings - Big earrings are a fun way to wear jewelry to the beach or pool without it weighing you down. These coral inspired gold earrings from Stella & Dot fit with the beach vibe.
3. Sun hat - I love large brimmed hats for the beach and pool. They look great, hide your beach hair, and keep the sun off of your face.  I have a had from the San Diego hat company that I've owned for more than 10 years.  I'd love to get one in another color.
4. Bracelet - I don't wear tons of jewelry to the beach or pool but this stretch version from Stella & Dot will slide off easily before you jump in the water.
5. Swimsuit - I've never been a bikini girl so this retro suit is perfect for me.  It's sexy but covers in a great way.  It's available is sizes 2 - 26!
6. Beach bag - I don't need a bag when I run out to the backyard pool but it's a must for our vacation.  I LOVE our LL Bean canvas bags.  They are affordable, stylish and indestructible.
7. Flip flops - I confess that rubber flip flops are one of my least favorite type of footwear.  I do wear them when I am running around the pool or going to beach. I don't have to worry about sand or dirt and I can rinse them off easily. The beading on this pair give them a bit of flair.
8. Sunscreen - I'm a bit pushy with my family and friends about using sunscreen. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than sunburn. I also know people who have had skin cancer scares.  Also, I wear it without fail.  I love being outside and in order to protect myself and ensure that I preserve the great skin I was born with, sunscreen is mandatory. Neutrogena products are some of my favorite. Last summer I also fell in love with Supergoop wipes. They are towelettes coated in sunscreen. Genius!
9. Sunglasses - I'm a bit of a slut when it comes to sunglasses. I love them and own way too many. My designer pairs are my favorites but they don't go to the beach with me.  I take a pair that I can wear into the water and not care if they get scratched in the sand.  This pair from GirlPROPS is only $4.99!

What are you picks for staying stylish in the sun and by the water?

Florida Vacation Recap

I'm traveling home today and wanted to share some of my photos and vacation stories. It was a wonderful trip with my family and we got to spend time with my Uncle and Aunt and Florida cousins. Along with family time, we spent an afternoon at the beach, did a little shopping and ate some yummy food.

We took off on a beautiful sunny morning in DC. It was about 50 degrees when we left and 80 when we landed. I ordered one of my favorite south Florida treats at lunch, Conch Fritters. We spent an afternoon at the beach. I forgot to bring a beach bag, so my sarong did double duty. I tied the corners together creating a hobo bag. The weather was perfect. One of my Florida cousins sells Premier Jewelry and she did an impromptu show for us after dinner. I couldn't resist. I bought two necklaces and got a bracelet free. On our last full day (Sunday), it rained so we did a little shopping. We visited one of the local Goodwill stores and Loehmann's. I scored some bright pants and an ACDC tee at Goodwill and some classic, black Coach pumps at Loehmann's.

I'm happy to go home to our fuzzy kids (two pups and a kitty). I've missed them but I'd love to take a few more days of vacation. Oh well, back to regular life and my paying job. At least I have fun pictures, great memories New fashion goodies.