I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Rose Gold

I've found myself reaching for my few rose gold pieces often. I'm loving that they mix so well with silver or gold. The pretty pink color is so warm and summery and you know how I love metallics. I have found myself wanting a few more rose gold items to add to my collection.

Click on the items above for buying information.

I saw these fantastic Ray-Ban aviators on some fellow bloggers. Then I lucked out and found them on amazon. They were a great price and I love them. It's hard to tell but they have the most amazing rose gold mirror lenses (even though they are called Copper Flash). The rose gold Stella and Dot Renegade bracelet has been on my must list for a while. I'd love to get a rose gold monogram necklace. This Rebecca Minkoff cross body bag would be a fun addition to my summer wardrobe. Essie polish in Penny Talk is a fun metallic to add to your collection. Just be sure to use a ridge filling base coat because the metallic finish shows every ridge and flaw. I love the geometric shapes of these rings. This belt would look so pretty on a white dress. You know my obsession with oxfords. These by Cole Haan would be a perfect addition to my collection. The Manolos are a pipe dream but I love them. The flat sandals are a pretty and more realistic option.

Do you love rose gold as much as I do?

Loving Now - Black Accents

I've always loved black more than brown. Rich browns are beautiful but I guess it's the rocker chick in me that loves black. It's tough, classy, a neutral, and all round awesome. My purchases and go to items lately are no exception. 

click on the photos above for more information

This veiled beanie was a holiday DIY project for me. It was super easy and I love the results. There is a post coming soon. I snagged this scarf last spring at Target. It's not available online any longer but I've seen it in stores. It looks similar to an Alexander McQueen scarf that costs hundreds more and I love it. These 3.1 Phillip Lim sunglasses are my new faves. They were a super sale buy from Neiman Marcus Last Call ($60, originally $225). They will have to be my substitute for the Pashli. This Stella & Dot bracelet is one of my new favorites. It's in heavy rotation. I'm lusting after these Zara boots. They're fantastic but I'm not sure that they are in my budget. I'm still debating. My mom gave me this ASOS jacket for my birthday. I love it and only put it away when I need a super heavy coat. It reminds me of the jacket that Poppy Montgomery's character wears on Unforgetable. A nude eye with black liner is my go to makeup. This Revlon ColorStay pen draws a precise line and lasts all day.

Stella & Dot Renegade Cluster Bracelet WINNERS!

The winners of the Renegade Cluster Bracelets have been chosen!  Thanks to everyone who entered, commented, Liked us on facebook, tweeted and retweeted.  We had over 200 entries! If you weren't a winner, don't worry, I have more giveaways coming up to celebrate the Holidays and some RGR milestones.

CONGRATULATIONS

Laura S. and diana!

I will be contacting you via email soon.

  

Stella & Dot Renegade Cluster Bracelet Giveaway! - CLOSED

THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED.

I'm sure you've all seen me wearing my all time favorite Stella and Dot bracelet, the Renegade Cluster bracelet. It's the perfect combination of tough and pretty.  I LOVE this bracelet and I wear it constantly. Several months ago I had the good fortune of meeting Stella and Dot Stylist Kristin Biggs at a NoVA Fashion Week event.  Until that point I had only seen Stella and Dot jewelry online.  Kristin introduced me to this fantastic line of beautiful jewelry.  Many months later Kristin is not only my Stella and Dot Stylist, she's also my good friend. Blogging has brought so many fantastic people into my life. Kristin has generously offered to give two Real Girl Runway readers the choice of a silver or gold Renegade Cluster bracelet!

Stack it or wear it alone, this bracelet is so versatile and it's fun.  I promise it will become one of your favorites too. Enter today and tell your friends.  The giveaway will end on November 19. 


a Rafflecopter giveaway

HAPPY FRIDAY REAL GIRLS!

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Skulls

The punk, rock n' roll vibe has always been something I've loved.  Lately, I'm more obsessed with skulls than ever.  I can't help it. They are fun and creepy all at the same time. You can incorporate them in unexpected ways without looking like you are going to a Misfits show.  I wear my skull ring and bracelet to work with my pencils skirts and blazers.  I know that wouldn't work in every office but honestly, most people don't notice and I love wearing them.

There are lots of budget options but I had to throw in some Alexander McQueen shoes and my favorite Wendy Brandes ring.  Click on the pictures above to get all of the details. I'm in love with the Butler & Wilson clutch.  They have an amazing collection of crystal skull pieces.  There was no way to include them all. The DIY skull cut out t-shirt is on my to do list.  Such an easy way to wear a skull.  I'm sure people will do lots of double takes.

What's your latest obsession?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Brocade & Embroidery

Another installment in the Fall 2012 Runway Trend series, today we are focusing on the brocade and embroidery trend.  I've heard this trend referred to as brocade, embroidery and baroque.  No matter what you call it, the trend focuses on detailed stitched patterns and luxurious fabric. My favorite is the brocade skirt.  It's beautiful and versatile.  Dress it up with a blouse and heels or down with a t-shirt and flats. You can also carry the trend into jewelry with a statement necklace or a beautiful ring or cuff.

A pretty brocade dress will be timeless.  With a simple change of shoes and accessories, you will be able to update it for years to come.  A single brocade or embroidered piece can be the stand out of your entire outfit.  I own the Alexandria necklace by Stella & Dot (upper right corner).  I wear it constantly to work with my dress clothes and on the weekend with a t-shirt and jeans.  Every time I put it on, someone asks me about it.  You can even make your brocade piece look rock n' roll, just add that other fall trend, leather.

How will you be wearing this trend?

Inspiration - Silver Accents

My love for all things silver is pretty obvious.  I've done many posts with silver jewelry.  I always gravitate toward silver over gold. I just love the way it sparkles.  Here are just a few of my silver loves and inspirations.

Thrifted Watch Band Turned Bracelet

DIY Upcycled Tray, Spray Painted Silver

My Stella & Dot Alexandria Necklace

DIY Silver Skull

ASOS Paris Metallic Pointed Heels only $20.44!

Coolest DIY Silver Leaf lampshade from Design Sponge

DIY Silver Leaf Chest from Little Green Notebook

ASOS Spike Stretch Bracelet

My thrifted tray and after Halloween sale, skull became great home accents.  A thrifted watch band has become one of my favorite bracelets. I'm in love with my Stella & Dot Alexandria necklace (c/o). It's in regular rotation and I get compliments every time I wear it. A pair of silver pumps are on my list and these are on sale for only $20.44 at ASOS!  I love simple DIY projects and this black and silver shade just that. Some silver leaf will transform a blah black shade. There is a brown buffet sitting in our dining that I bought via work list serve many years ago.  I've been debating about what to do with it and couldn't decide. Then I spied this silver leaf DIY on Pinterest and I knew I'd found the solution. DIY here I come! I can't resist a spiked bracelet. The gunmetal version is one of my favorites and I definitely need to snatch up the silver one too.

What's your favorite accent color?

Olympic Fever

Olympic fever has hit our house.  The TV is on Olympic broadcasts every second we are home.  I look forward to every Olympic year.  I swam competitively on the local swim team as a kid but nothing close to Olympic caliber.  I love cheering for the USA and getting into the spirit.  It's contagious. Of course I had to throw in the fashion aspect of the games.  Olympic gear is everywhere.  I picked a few of my favorites.

Click on the pictures above for buying details.

It was hard to choose favorites but I love a fun t-shirt and these fit the bill.  I can cheer on Team USA in style. This jacket is fantastic. It's crazy expensive so this is just a wish list item.  It's the same jacket the athletes are wearing on the medal stand. The collection wouldn't be complete without jewelry.  Olympic pins are highly sought after collectibles and I really like the bracelets available.  Too many fun options to choose from. Those gorgeous earrings were created by a ADAMS fine jewelry in Newton, MA, specifically for gymnast Aly Raisman.  The jeweler promised Aly that if the ladies brought home the team gold he would create earrings for each of the members of the team. He's keeping his promise.

If you're like me and would love to be in London but can't, check out an insider view of the Olympics on Hilary Phelps' website.  Yes that Phelps.  Hilary is Michael's proud and accomplished (in her own right) older sister. She is posting photos and cool details from the Olympics.You can also follow her on twitter at @HilaryPhelps.


My posts the last couple weeks have been thin.  Since getting back from vacation life has been crazy. Work has been busy and then my car died.  It's fixable if I wanted to put almost $2,000 into it, but I've owned my car for many years (it's a 2000 Toyota Celica). It has 225,000 miles on it and I've put quite a bit of money into it over the last year.  We reluctantly decided it was time for a new car. {msL} just finished paying off her car and we would have been car payment free.  It wasn't an easy choice. Deciding what we wanted was the first order of business.  I really wanted a sports car (like the one I was giving up) but that's not the what we needed. We needed a four door, four seater car, with room for our pups.  After lots of research and debating we chose a Kia Soul. Then came the negotiations.  UGH!  After lots of stress, we got a great car, for a good price and I'm thrilled. Can you believe that I'm 44 and I've never owned a brand new car? I've always bought used. With the down economy, dealers are offering great incentives, prices, and interest rates.  New it is. I'm a bit giddy about the car and am happy with my decision.  Car payments here I come.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Off to the Races

Today's Frugal Fashion Friday centers on the parties this weekend for the Virginia Gold Cup and the Kentucky Derby. It was one of the options for today's Friday's Fancies.  A huge part of these events are the hats and outfits worn by attendees.  Two weekends ago my cousin and I created her hat for the Gold Cup (she'll be attending this weekend).  It was a fun DIY project. I decided to create an outfit surrounding the hat we created.  I selected some frugal options for girls on a budget.

Clockwise from the top center

1) DIY Derby and Gold Cup Hat (DIY Details Here)

2) ASOS Bow Skinny Belt $10.91

3) ASOS Curve Skater Dress with Crochet Trim $63.63

4) Forever 21 Detailed Cutout Bracelet $5.80

5) ALDO Elnicki Flat Sandals $35.00

6) ASOS Skater Dress with Belt $45.45

 

 

I won't be attending any of the Gold Cup and Derby events myself this weekend. My Honey and I are going to be chaperones for a local Gay Straight Alliance prom this weekend, instead. I'm really excited to help out the kids and support such a fantastic cause.  So many kids can't attend their proms with the person they choose because of fear, bullying or school regulations.  If you know a kid who needs support and help, please be there for them. If you aren't sure how to help you can check out these great resources. 

GLSEN: Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network

Gay Straight Alliance Network

Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays

SMYAL

The Trevor Project (in case you know a kid who is in jeopardy)

Whatever your plans, I hope you have a fantastic weekend. 

Happy Friday Real Girls!!!

 

I'm Obesessed Thank You Very Much - Neon Accessories

In the 80's neon was a huge trend. It was everywhere.  I even owned a pair of neon pink tights and some truly horrid neon blue mascara that I wore constantly. The neon trend is back again. I won't be reliving the mascara but we all made bad fashion choices in high school.  Come on, you know you did too. I do still love a pop of neon in accessories.  They are a fun way to wear the trend without looking like an 80's flashback or a fashion trend victim. Accessories are a simple way to introduce some color to your outfit and try out the trend without having to dive in too deep.  Neon next to black or white is a stand out.

Neon accessories by Real Girl Runway

You all know I don't believe in spending a ton on trendy pieces. They usually aren't something that will stand the test of time.  You'll be tired of them in a season or two. Finding those trendy pieces for less is key. The necklace is the most expensive in this lot but that's because I couldn't include the necklace I really love in this collage (stupid Internet programs). Below is a necklace made and sold by  Colorblock Shop on etsy.com. This is only one of some fantastic neon pieces listed. You have to check them out. Necklaces are made to order and this one sells for $36. It's such a fantastic piece and it's affordable.
  

Do you like the neon trend or are you going to skip this one?

Neon Accessories

Virtual Shopping - ASOS Weekend Outfit

One of my favorite past times is virtual shopping.  I look over my favorite sites and create outfits and my virtual orders. Sometimes I have the money to spend but most times I don't.  Earlier this week I was doing a little virtual shopping on one of my favorite sites, ASOS.  The site has items in all sizes and since they are based in the UK the items are fashion forward. When shopping I came across this great comfy sweater and built an outfit around it.

Sweater, $25
ASOS reversible pants, $29
ASOS metallic shoes, $27
ASOS clutch handbag, $31
ASOS skull earrings, $9.85
Asos Oversized Plaited Cord Wristband With Pleated Metal Fastening, $14

The skinny burgundy pants balance out the chunky sweater.  The loafers are flat and my pick for a weekend of errands but you could throw on a pair of heels for dinner out. The chord bracelet and skull earrings funk up the basic sweater and pants.  The clutch gives it all an extra pop of color. This looks like the perfect weekend outfit to me.

If I did decide to buy this outfit, I could score everything for $116!  Even on a budget that's pretty great. 

Shop Now, Wear Forever - Via a Nordstrom Sale

It seems strange to think of spring now but retailers are beginning to get their new merchandise, which means markdowns.  You can cash in on their need to clear their racks and score a great deal.  Some of the items on sale can be worn now and into the spring. If you choose wisely, you can find some classic pieces and some trendy items for a bargain. I've had my eye on a great pleated chiffon skirt on Nordstrom.com and since it's half price I decided to order it right away.  My online shopping excursion got me thinking about the great sale items that you all could buy now, on sale, and wear forever. Nordstrom has free shipping and returns and the quality of their items is top notch. You know me, always looking for quality at a great price.

Solid V-Neck Cashmere Sweater
One of my favorite Christmas gifts was a crew neck cashmere sweater in fuchsia. I've been wearing it constantly.  Cashmere is timeless, it transcends seasons and can be dressed up or down. A v-neck is flattering on all body types. It will never go out of style. $50 is a bargain for a cashmere sweater!

Women's V-Neck Cashmere Sweater $49.90 and Plus Size V-Neck Cashmere Sweater $54.90

Pleated Chiffon Maxi Skirt
When I first spied this sheer cobalt blue chiffon maxi months ago, I was smitten.  As you know, my clothing budget is tight and $54 wasn't in the cards.  On top of that, I couldn't decide between the blue and the black. I know that some of you ladies don't feel maxis flatter you.  This semi sheer version could be your chance to change that way of thinking.  The under skirt is knee length but the sheer overlay won't make a petite woman appear shorter and it's sexy.  The micro pleats at the top of the skirt flatter a woman with curves. It could be dressed up with heels and dressed down with boots or flats. You could wear it now with a sweater or jacket and into the spring with a tee or a tank. When I realized it was now 50% off, I had to take the plunge. 

Women's Pleated Chiffon Maxi Skirt $33.90 and Plus Size Pleated Chiffon Maxi Skirt $26.90

Low Heeled Booties
I love my heels but it seems that my lower heel shoes get the most wear.  I also love wedges because of their stability. A 3 inch wedge doesn't feel as high to me as a 3 inch stiletto. This winter I've been gravitating toward my booties.  They're versatile and also stylish. They look fab with a pair of slacks or jeans and also great with a skirt or dress. Nordstrom is known for their shoe selection.  These are both available in two colors.  The Clarks booties come in sizes 4 - 12!  They are a bit on the pricey side for sale shoes but they are leather and their understated, classic style means you will be able to wear them for many years.

SamEdelman Wilma Bootie $86.90 and Clarks Water Row Bootie $86.90

Interesting Cuff Bracelet
A metal cuff in an interesting design can be worn with all types of outfits.  It can dress up a tee and set off an LBD. The rose gold of this one is on trend but timeless (it also comes in silver). I love the curves and the diamond dust finish. For only $24.90, it's a great buy.

Diamond Dust Cuff $24.90

Leather Tote
Studs, buckles, sequins and embellishments are fun but there is something to be said for simplicity.  A leather tote in taupe or black can be worn with everything in your wardrobe.  It can go with you on your weekend errands, carry your laptop to work, and serve as your carry-on for a flight. This tote has classic lines and leather can last you a lifetime.  It's a bargain for only $48.90. It's available in taupe and black.

Halogen Everyday Tote $48.90

All of these items are available from Nordstrom.com and you'll even get free shipping. You can also shop Nordstrom Rack online via the same site. I've already ordered the Pleated Chiffon Maxi in cobalt blue and black.  I couldn't pass them up at $26.90 each.  Two skirts for the price one cost originally. With a little searching you can find some great deals on items that you can wear for years to come. I may have to recheck my budget and do a little more shopping.
 

Frugal Fashion Friday - Jewelry Fun

I own lots of jewelry and I definitely play favorites. The reason I love jewelry and accessories because they are an inexpensive way to change up an outfit. I am loving bracelet stacking lately. You can throw on items that aren't usually in your regular rotation. Lots of arm candy is fun.

You can mix metals. Yesterday I mixed silver and gold. I wore a watch band that I use as a bracelet (from Goodwill), a leather and chain cuff from Target, and a DIY bracelet made from satin cord and hexnuts.

You can mix styles. Girly and sparkly with tough. Today I mixed a DIY Swarovski crystal bracelet, a Honora pearl bracelet and a studded cuff from Saks off 5th. I wore this combo with jeans, a tee, and a lady like jacket.

It's all in the mix and your mood that day. Do you like to layer your jewelry?

Hurricane Inspired Bracelet

On Friday, we took a trip to the local hardware store to get hurricane supplies.  We have the big "home improvement" stores but I'm partial to the locally owned hardware store. It reminds me of my childhood and trips with my dad. Also, it's always easy to find someone to help you and they always have the greatest items that you don't find at the big stores. We went in to get extra rope and bungee chords to tie down items in the yard and on the deck. I grew up in a coastal area and even though I live a little farther inland now, I still believe in preparation. 

We went to the aisle that contained the rope. As we were picking out the practical options, I couldn't help but notice a big spool of purple, blue and yellow braided rope. All I could think of where the cool bracelets created by Proenza Schouler and Marc Jacobs.

We got the hurricane supplies we came to pick up and I just had to have the purple rope too. When I turned around to leave the aisle, I saw a huge section of clasps and hooks. There were so many of them in all sizes and types. I had to grab a few of those.

Supplies

• multi-colored rope
• hooks or clasps
• wire

Using the supplies that I had and the inspiration of the more expensive bracelets, I spent time during the hurricane working on a few bracelets. I measured out the rope to make a double wrap bracelet. I cut the rope and sealed the ends by heating them with a lighter.  Folding one end over, I wrapped it with wire making an open loop.  The clasp I chose had a closed loop on one end.  I fed the other end of rope through the clasp and folded it over. Then using the wire I wrapped the end.

The designer version bracelets cost $20 and $150.  The supplies I purchased cost $15.  I already had the wire and I still have enough rope to make many more bracelets and another clasp. Even if I only made two bracelets, they only cost $7.50 each. A huge savings for a fun and trendy bracelet.

Thrifty Vintage Weekends

Over the last couple of weekends I've done some thrift and vintage shopping. On our Memorial Day weekend trip, we hit up a great thrift store in Winchester, VA and an incredible antique shop called GNC Antiques & Collectibles.  Last weekend, on a whim, we visted my favorite Goodwill store in Alexandria, VA and spent the gift certificate that I won in the DC Goodwill Fashionista DIY contest.  I always find something great at that store.

I found so many amazing pieces at GNC Antiques. I had to narrow down my choices based on my budget. I could have gone nuts and bought jewelry, acessories and even furniture. I fell in love with this vintage ostritch fan from the 40's but the price was a bit more than I wanted to pay.


Vintage Ostritch Fan

 Here's the loot I snagged on my shopping trips!

I really love vintage bags but many times they are too small to make them practical for my daily life.  I like big bags and to be honest, tiny bags only work with my curvy girl frame, for a night out.  Otherwise, they can look like I'm carrying a little girl's bag. This one is big.  It fits all of my daily needs and still has that ladies that lunch look.

Vintage jewelry is so much fun. You know that you won't see your jewelry on anyone else. When I'm hunting for costume pieces, I always reach for those that are unique and even a bit quirky. These earrings and pin fit that bill. The earrings are big but they have a clip back.  I love the sparkle. The pin is like nothing I've ever seen. It's funky and the cascading beads make it a statement piece.

Recently the preppy look has returned with a vengeance. For me, preppy always included my Pappagallo (Bermuda) bag. When I was younger, I didn't exactly care for my bags like I should have. My original Pappagallo bit the dust long ago. I found this one at the thrift store in Winchester for only $5 and it included 3 additional covers. In case you aren't familiar with this type of bag, the covers can be attached and removed via the buttons to change up your bag. One of the covers is a rust colored suede. Such a steal! My Honey bought the bag, covers and a great scarf for me.


Barely there sandals are a staple of my summer wardrobe. I love the braided straps of this pair. I'll style these with a sundress or some slim summer pants. I'm even thinking of creating DIY options to change up the look. I'll get back to you.




My scarf collection is ridiculously large but I can't help myself. Silk scarves are truly the best buy at thrift stores, but I've told you that before. They can totally change your outfit and give a basic dress a whole new look. I scored all of the scarves below for $3 or less. The striped one is actually a long belt sash.

Looking beyond an item's original intention is something I do often when thrifting.  I found this watch band. It's stainless steel and I plan to wear it as a funky bracelet instead of a watch band. The buckle on top will look great stacked with some of my other bracelets. It's different and unexpected. I got it for only $1!

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.

American Red Cross

Text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation

(It will be charged to your phone bill.)

Save the Children

World Vision

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.

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.

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.

The next entry will contain the last of the list.

Get Your Punk On!

I'm inspired by 80's punk styles. My inspirations...

Being a child of the 80's, I've worn all of these trends once before. I just can't help myself, I still love them. It's possible to wear trends a second time, if you reinterpret them for today.

Forever 21 $5.80

Stack bracelets just like the original Material Girl.  Instead of pairing them with a bustier, try jazzing up a t-shirt and jeans or your work clothes.



Worthington at JC Penney $32.99

Forget Dynasty. Pick a strong shoulder jacket that you can pair with a pencil skirt or jeans. Belt it for a more modern look.

Punk.com $18

Pair a studded belt with a tunic or offset the femininity of a floral dress with a little toughness.

Wilsons Leather Cycle Jacket $90

Leather jackets (or faux leather) are becoming a wardrobe classic.  You can wear it with basic pants or toughen up a pretty dress. You can even use it as a layering piece.

Mary Kay Black eye liner $10

What's punk without some black eye liner? Instead of piling it on like Joan Jett, use it as the base of your smokey eye.  Smudge it for effect. This Mary Kay version is waterproof and smudge proof, which is important for long wear.

With a little thought you can take the fun elements of punk and make them work for you.  A studded bracelet or a belt can give contrast to girly pieces. Try an inexpensive accessory before you take the plunge and purchase a leather jacket with lots of zippers. If you've made your own DIY chain jacket that I posted a couple weeks ago, it will fit right in!