My Must List - Transition Pieces

This time of year my closet is always too full. Because of the unpredictable weather (it was almost 70 degrees and sunny on Saturday and 30 degrees and snowing on Monday), I'm not able to pull all of my winter clothes and still can't wear my spring duds. Transition pieces that can pull double duty are the best options right now. Those items that will work with my winter and summer clothes. Items that I can layer and are seasonless are required.



Click on the photos for buying information.

• This full graphic print skirt works with tights and a sweater now but will also work with strappy sandals and a light top later.
• Yes, they're white but the timeless, cat eye shape of these sunnies classic and seasonless.
• Jewelry isn't really a transition piece but I love this rose gold version of my favorite Stella & Dot Renegade bracelet. I know I will wear it constantly. 
• This print bomber can be layered with a light sweater now and worn with a t-shirt later.
• Leopard slip on sneakers! So cool and comfortable. They will be my weekend go to pair.
• Leather pants will work now and well into the spring, with a chunky sweater now and a flowy top in warmer weather.
• These almost Balenciaga boots are a major look for less. I can wear them now with socks and later with bare feet.

What's on your Must list?


Don't forget to enter the Skirt the Issue giveaway!  Just a few more days until it ends.

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Black Leather

The title of this post should have really been DUH!. If you've been a reader for a bit, you know that I love me some leather, especially black leather. I just think so many things look better in leather or faux leather (I own both). It's a borderline complete obsession. I even wore my black leather moto jacket leaving our wedding reception.



A quick snap taken by a friend.

Here are  just a few items that are on my list. Some have been on my list for some time (the leather midi skirt) and others are new (the slip-ons and the laser cut cuff). Some fanastic deals (hello $71 leather pants). All of the pieces can be mixed into my current wardrobe.



Click on the items above for buying information.



What's your obsession?

Inspiration - Leather Tops

On Friday I ordered this faux leather peplum top. I have been looking for a leather or faux leather top for some time. I'm working on losing weight and didn't want to spend a ton. I first saw a similar top on my blogger friend Grown and Curvy Woman. Hers came from Forever 21 but sadly it was sold out. I kept searching and last week I found a similar top on Forever 21 for only $19.80! It wasn't a hard decision because I had a gift card I could use. I'm glad I bought it because it's already sold out!

Forever 21 - sold out but similar here and here

I also went in search of a little styling inspiration. I found lots of it. This top won't be great on 90 degree days but luckily it's starting to cool down. I can't wait to wear it.

 

photo credits from top to bottom: asos fashion finder, Atlantic-Pacific, Fashion Caramel, style cab, Stylish by Nature, The Cab Look, Trend Mill

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Cut Out Boots

My crazy obsession with cut out boots has reached a breaking point. I definitely don't need another pair. They aren't in my budget and I can't buy them.  Unfortunately, that doesn't keep me from looking at and Pinning every pair I see. They are cool, funky, versatile and I love them, I can wear them year round. I snagged the pair in the upper right corner (ASOS ATTACK Leather Gladiator Ankle Boot) before they sold out.  Now I'm lusting after a tan or light colored pair. 



Click the photo above for buying information.

Jeffrey Campbell is the king of the cut out boot. They have so may great styles to choose from.  I could have filled an entire page with just JC boots.  In fact, the majority of the boots above are JC boots. Most of the options I found (that I like) are over $100, which is a bit on the pricey side. If you love this look and want a pair, consider purchasing a pair that will carry over season to season.  Select leather, with clean lines and minimal buckles. I'd recommend the ASOS boots but they are sold out.  The Jeffrey Campbell Melina Cut Outs or the Ecote Gordon Cut Out Boots from Urban Outfitters (the least expensive pair) are good choices for staying power.

What's your latest obsession?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Leather for Spring (or anytime)

Today is another installment in our spring fashion for curvy girls series.  I'm sure you're wondering why this is also a Frugal Fashion Friday post.  You all know I believe in remixing your clothes. I also believe in quality over fast fashion.  However, sometimes inexpensive fashion can also be quality.  Case in point are the two jackets in the outfit photos below. They are both faux leather.  I love leather but I found these jackets for bargain prices and I wear them both as much or more than my leather. The black cross zip, biker jacket is from Target. I scored it more than two years ago and I wear it constantly.  It's great with jeans and a t-shirt.  I also love it over a dress or a maxi skirt. The olive moto jacket has interesting detail and goes with everything.

I personally love jackets to lend polish or interest to an outfit.  Add a black, cross zip, biker jacket to a simple t-shirt and jeans and you're instantly transformed into a bad ass (well in my mind, anyway). Add a biker or moto jacket to a pretty skirt and it toughens it up and it gives it edge. These jackets are also transitional pieces. I wear mine spring, summer and fall. They're ageless and timeless pieces that anyone can wear, no matter their size.

Faux leather can look cheap. I've seen faux leather jackets that aren't fooling anyone.  They don't look like leather at all.  The key is the finish and detail.  Does the faux leather feel or look plastic? Make sure it gives the appearance of real leather. Check the hardware. Are the zippers good quality? Are the snaps or buttons set well? If you can answer yes to all of these questions, then you have a high quality, faux leather jacket.  I paid about $30 for each of these jackets. These jackets have been a great value. The price per wear is pennies and they are still going strong.

Obviously, I wear leather (or faux leather) regardless of trend.  Leather is a classic look that transcends time.  A quality leather or faux leather jacket is a great buy that you can wear for years.

Be sure to check out the other ladies and their blogs:

Curvy CEO

Girls of Plenty

Grown and Curvy Woman

Heart, Print and Style

Society of Curves

Springtime Wishes

Another busy week full of work and wedding.  I'm pulling together posts about our amazing wedding ring DIY and about a fun fashion event I attended on Sunday.  I'll have them up soon. In the meantime I thought I'd share a few of the items on my spring wish list.

The week before our wedding {msL} and I will be going to the courthouse in DC to get a legal marriage license and take our vows in front of the Justice of the Peace.  You see we live in Virginia where our marriage will not be legally recognized.  Luckily for us we live close to DC and Maryland where marriage equality is in place. Laws and minds have come so far but there is still a long way to go. Please support marriage equality in your state.  Hopefully one day soon our marriage will be recognized in every state. I want a pretty dress to wear to the courthouse and I love this polka dot dress from Coldwater Creek.

I've been waiting until after the wedding to make any changes to my hair.  This is killing me. I change my hair often and I'm sure I'll be doing something like adding an ombre look or cutting it shorter.

I wear my flats much more than my heels.  My flats are starting to look a bit old so I'm on the hunt for fun new flats I can wear all spring and summer. These mirror silver flats from ASOS are great. I love the pointed toe and the ankle strap.

A leather skirt has been on my list for some time.  Leather is hot this spring and I'm going to get myself a great skirt.  Pencil skirts just don't work on my curvy body. This full style is perfect.

Crystals, pearls and skulls, FANTASTIC!  One of my favorite things is to mix tough with pretty.  This statement necklace is a dream for me in that department.  I definitely need this one on my wish list.

My handbag collection is a bit nuts.  This spring I'm planning a closet clean out. I'll be purging the bags I never use and replacing a few of them with classics that I'll use often. This tan tote from Zara is the perfect replacement. It's large enough for work but sleek and polished.  The tan color will go with everything this spring.

What items are on your wish list?

Warm, Pretty and Tech Savvy

My iPhone is my favorite daily tool and has become a trusted blogging friend. I definitely can't live without it. The DC area has a rough winter coming and I'm sure I'll be doing lots of outdoor activities. Freezing while I'm snapping photos, texting or tweeting isn't an option. My regular glove don't work because I can't wear them and use the touch screen. Last year I snagged my first pair of tech gloves (aka touch screen gloves).  I got a fleece pair on sale at the end of the season from Target. They are a fun raspberry color. I like them but I'd love to have a leather or a cashmere pair. My hands get cold easily so gloves are must. There are pretty options available in lots of styles. Here are some of my favorites.

Echo Ruffle gloves / Nordstrom Cashmere gloves / Fownes Brothers ashmere Lined Leather gloves / Velvet gloves / Echo Leather Ruffle gloves / Wool Blend Cuffed gloves / Mossimo jeweled gloves / Echo Wave stitch gloves / Echo Bow gloves

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!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Fall Lust List

Today I'm taking a break from the fall trends to tell you what is on my list of wants.  Some of the items are trends and some are just things I love.  Not all of the items are frugal buys but I will tell you how I plan to get them for a bargain. Today I'm also linking up to Friday's Fancies on Long Distance Loving.

Click on the pictures above to see the details.

Navy Blazer - This classic item will take me everywhere.  I can dress it up or down and it will never go out of style.  I'll be hitting all of my favorite thrift stores and discount stores to hunt for a classic navy blazer.

Leather (Faux Leather) Skirt - A pleated leather skirt has been on my list for a couple of seasons.  Leather is a huge trend this fall.  Faux leather is affordable and if you choose a classic style like pleated or a pencil skirt you can keep it for years. I will be using a discount code to get a great deal on this skirt.

Colored Skinny Jeans - These Bordeaux colored skinny jeans are right on trend.  I scored these NYDJ at Nordstrom Rack for $60 earlier this week! The rich color is great for fall and a fun alternative to blue jeans.

Statement Necklace - I'm in love with the Pegasus Necklace from Stella & Dot.  The layered feathers are beautiful and an unexpected way to do a statement necklace.  I will be using some of my trunk show credits for this fantastic necklace.

Leopard Accented Bag -  Black and leopard combined with the school bag tote style of this bag is perfect for me.  I'll be able to stash all of my essentials and it will still look great.  Even better, this bag from Urban Outfitters is on sale right now!

Statement Cocktail Ring -  If you aren't in the mood to wear a ton of jewelry, a fantastic cocktail ring is the ticket.  There are so many things to love about the Stella & Dot Starstruck ring.  This one is definitely on my list of wants.  I'll be spending some of my trunk show credits on this ring.

Studded Ladylike Pumps - The studs on these ladylike pumps are unexpected. The shoes are very similar to the Valentino studded pumps but at only $100, I can actually afford them! 


Hope you have time to hit up some early fall sales this weekend.  I'm attending fashion even number three of the week, on Saturday.  I'll have recaps next week.  What is on your fall wish list? 

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Leather

As I'm writing this post, I just realized that all of the leather items I chose are black (well one is gray).  I love leather and faux leather but I have a special love for black leather.  I think it's the fact that I equate leather to toughness, rockers, and bikes (motorcycles not the kind you pedal).  Black leather is sexy, it's rich and it's bad ass.  Colored leather is fantastic, in fact I own several items that are colored leather and colored suede, not counting shoes.  You don't need a Harley to wear leather.  You can do it in a sophisticated way, with a pencil skirt or a peplum top.  If you don't want to do a full leather piece, go for leather trim on a coat or jacket.

Click on the collage above for buying details

If you aren't a fan or real leather, there are so many fantastic faux leather options.  Most of the items above are faux leather.  They look great and they are less expensive than real leather.  Even if you're more ladies that lunch than lady rocker, you can make leather work for you.  A leather (faux leather) skirt is on my list of must buys this season. What's on your list?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - My Favorites

It has to be all the talk of NY Fashion Week and my fond memories of back to school shopping that has me in the mood for fall fashion.  It's certainly not the weather here in the DC area.  It's super humid and supposed to be in the mid to high 80's all week. There is no sign of fall in sight.  This weekend I took a little trip to my favorite outlet, Talbots, in search of bargains.  I found two items that were on my list, a white blazer (originally $224 for $24.99!) and some fun ankle pants (mine are plaid).  I also snagged a fantastic silver sequin top.  It wasn't on my list but at $24 I couldn't pass it up. My shopping trip and the pile of September issue fashion mags on my coffee table inspired this post.

There are tons of trends on tap, as usual.  These are some of my favorites. I'm already embracing the military, white and plaid trends.  A leather skirt is on my list and I spied a brocade skirt at Talbots that I should have purchased but didn't.  I may have to go back for it.  Bordeaux is an easy trend to embrace.  Graphic prints can be done in with a single piece like a top, dress or skirt instead of an entire outfit.  A bit of menswear is fun, try a jacket, hat or some oxfords. You don't have to go full on Victor Victoria to wear this tread well.

This week, I'll be sharing my tips on how to fit these fall trends to your own personal style. 

Moment of Lust - Celine Luggage Tote

Women's Wear Daily declared the Celine Luggage Tote, the 'It' bag of NY Fashion Week.  I've been lusting after this bag for a long while now. It's one of those classic bags that will never go out of style. It comes in lots of colors.  If you can get one, usually via a waiting list, you'll pay $2,500 or more.  I spotted one on Overstock.com for just $2,669.  Of course it was sold out but it's not like I would have grabbed my credit card, even if it were available.

In addition to being seen on many women walking into the shows at Fashion Week, magazine editors, and socialites, it has been on the arms of lots of celebrity fashion darlings.

Nicole Richie

Reese Witherspoon

Kourtney Kardashian

Leighton Meester

Until recently, my search to find a similar bag of good quality hadn't come close.   This time I'm being really picky. I want a bag that is leather and will last. Even though I can't afford the $2,500+ price tag, I still want a bag that has the same qualities. Then I heard about the J. Crew Tillary Tote. At $328 the bag is still pricey but it's leather, a classic style and there is nary a logo or trendy accessory in sight.  The Tillary has all of the markers of a long term investment bag. It comes in blue and tan.  I love the blue but either would be a great color I'd used often. Maybe it would be worth saving all of my shopping money over the next few months to purchase it.  If you are lucky enough to order it now, it will be shipped in May.  So even this great classic bag has a bit of a wait list.

J. Crew Tillary Tote

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.
 

Inspiration - Street Style Leather Edition

I'm so happy that the weather has turned cooler and I can wear my leather (and faux leather) jackets.  They are so easy to wear with everything from jeans and a tee to a frilly dress. I love them styled in every way imagineable.  There are so many great style inspirations to be found.

I love this outfit because with the exception of the sheer skirt, I would wear this and I have (seen here). It's such a comfortable and easy look but also polished.


Models Off Duty

I just purchased a hat similar to this one. My came from Target for only $8.50!  I can't wait to style mine in a similar way.

Cats and Rocking Chairs

The mod pattern of this skirt and the cool jacket are a fantastic combo.  But what else could we expect from Marie Claire fashion editor, Zanna Roberts Rassi.

Zanna Roberts Rassi

Skinny pants, booties, moto jacket, cowl scarf, long gloves, and chain strap back, all in black.  This outfit is so chic there are hardly words.  I can't wait to try this out myself.

Come Over to the Dark Side We Have Candy

Sweet tulle ruffles and a tough leather jacket are opposites that work together.  I will have to try a similar look with one of my dressy skirts.



Vintage Lollipops


The added fun of the color of this dress lends even more to this similar ruffles and leather outfit.  So cute.

Keiko Lynn

Moment of Lust - Rag & Bone Moto Boots

My love for the rocker look of motorcycle boots is long.  I've wanted a pair for years and an internal battle rages on how much I'm willing to pay for a great pair of boots. When I saw this pair from Rag & Bone, I swooned.

Rag & Bone Moto Boot $595

They are the perfect height. The glossy black, leather finish is classic and the simple hardware just adds to the style.  I know I could wear them for years.  No matter how much I love them, at a cost of $595, I will not be buying these boots.

Second on the list are a much more affordable alternative, the Frye Engineer 8R boots.  These are also classics.  They are leather with a glossy black finish.  The buckles are statements but also simple.  This pair will set me back $208.  That price is closer to my range but still on the high side.

Frye Engineer 8R $208

For about $80 less I could buy these boots by Nine West.  The asymmetrical top and buckles give them a funky vibe.  They also have the classic shape and leather of a traditional moto boot. 

Nine West Spacecadet $124.99

When I drop below the $100 mark, I didn't find any options that were leather.  All of the boots I found under $100 are faux leather.  Many of them look great but I think I'd really like to have a pair with leather uppers. This pair from Target are a good representation of the boots I found under $100.  This pair is $34.99.  They have classic styling, a split side and adjustable buckles.  They pull on like a traditional moto boot.  Many of the less expensive pairs had zippers which took them out of the running immediately.  If I'm going to opt for non leather boots, why not pick the least expensive but best style.

Target Mossimo Supply Co. Kemaria Biker Boots $34.99

 

Which boots should I spend my hard earned money on?  I need your help.  Vote for your favorite. 

Which Boots Should I Buy?
	Rag and Bone $595
	Frye $208
	Nine West $125
	Target $35
pollcode.com free polls

Trends I'd Like to Try

There are so many trends that grace runways and fashion magazines. I pass on many of them because they are just not for me. There are some that I just can't get out of my head and really want to try. Here are a few that are inspiring me right now.

Full Leather Skirt

I love the idea of a full leather skirt. The midi version would look better on me than the mini version. 

Rachel Comey

Louis Vuitton

Feather Hair Extensions

Clip in, temporary feather hair extensions would be a fun way to liven up an outfit.

Bold Lips

All summer I've been wearing bright pink and coral lips. During the 90's I loved wine colored lips.  I'd love to find a new sophisticated shade of burgundy for fall.

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!