Frugal Fashion Friday - Fall Trends On a Budget

If you're looking to add some fall trends to your closet, there are good bargains to be had. Today I've picked two of my favorites and found some great deals on those trends.

Click the photos above for buying information.

I love capes. They are versatile toppers that are more classic than trendy. I prefer one that is a light to medium weight fabric. Those styles work best when you want to layer. The only drawback I find is for ladies who prefer a handbag that goes over their shoulder. You'll have to carry a shoulder bag in your hand or place it under your cape. I personally find capes perfect for sporting a fun day clutch or a short handle satchel.

Of the finds above, my favorite is the cape jacket in the bottom right. It's technically called a cape blazer or cape jacket. It's by Vince Camuto and it can be found a Nordstrom (and it's on sale!). If you use ebates, today is a great day to buy this fantastic jacket. The cash back percentage is doubled today for Nordstrom! If you don't use ebates, why not? It's so easy, all you have to do is go to the ebates site before you shop online. Click on the link for your favorite store and then shop. In a few months, they will send you a check!  No catch. The retailers partner with ebates and provide rebates as an incentive to shop at their stores. There are thousands of stores. You can sign up here.

Click here for buying information.

Leopard is one of my favorites. It may sound a bit crazy but it's a neutral. The basic colors of leopard, tan, brown and black, work well with every color. It's versatile, fun and a statement piece. If you aren't sure you want to take the plunge and wear a jacket, or blouse, try a clutch or shoes. I'm betting once you try it out, you'll want more. I already own the slip on sneakers in the upper right hand corner. I also own a coat, a bag, some pumps and the almost new wedges I just scored at Goodwill.

Just a little searching and you can add some fall trends to your wardrobe for a bargain.

 

Happy Shopping Real Girls!

Inspiration - Fall Denim Styling

I've always been a jeans girl. I love denim and I'm loving that it's not just for casual wear anymore. I love dressing up denim and making it look sophisticated. I spent some time over the weekend, looking for lots of denim inspiration. I found some great options to style a the fall trends I told you about last week, this time with denim.

 

Cape and Denim

Denim and Fur (I prefer faux.)

I have to confess, I might love this red fur coat more than I love the whole look but isn't it fantastic?!

Denim and Leopard

Denim and a Wrap Coat



 

A few more for inspiration...

Denim, Booties, and a Skull

Denim and Tweed

Frugal Fashion Friday - Shopping My Closet for Fall 2014 Fashion Trends

There are trend lists everywhere lately. Frankly, I believe those lists must be taken with a grain of salt. Not every trend is great and not every trend works for every person. There are eight fall trends that I think could be good and stylish options for most women. They will work regardless of your shape, size or budget. In the next few posts, I'm going to talk about these trends and how you can wear them in real life. I'll start with some items that I already own. I will be saving some cash by revisiting items that I haven't worn in a little while. Some I wore just last season but others have been stashed in my closet.

 

CAPE

My Gray Wool Cape

My sweet and talented mom made this cape for me three years ago. I love it for its versatility and timeless look. Plus, my mom made it for me!

FUR (faux for me)

 



I love this vest! I debated between this black and silver style and solid black. I'm glad I chose this version. It's so unique. I can wear this vest when it starts to get chilly and into the cold months, by layering it with lighter pieces. It's fun and add some interest and sophistication to any outfit. I'm a huge fan of fur collars. This navy version is short enough to be worn with a sweater all day or as a scarf with my coats. My sister calls it my muppet collar. It always gets noticed.

 

OVERSIZED WRAP COAT

I love that this coat is loose and doesn't have buttons. It's my go to coat when I want to look polished but still feel warm and comfortable. The wool is warm but surprisingly it isn't itchy at all. J. Jill no longer makes this style but there are similar versions available. I will get lots of wear out of it for years to come.

LEOPARD

 



Ever since I received this coat as a birthday gift, it's been in heavy rotation. I love it with jeans and a sweater but also over a dress for work. I scored this bag a Loehman's last year. The size and shapre are perfect for me and I got it for a steal. My leopard pumps are my go to pair when I want to boost an outfit. They're classic but also a statement. If you aren't comfortable wearing a coat or jacket, go for accessories and start slow.

I can't wait to mix all of these items back into my regular fall outfits. They are all great pieces that will be welcome. Over the next week, I will be providing links to some affordable options for you as well as ways to style the trends.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

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.

Inspiration - Leopard Print Coat

Last year, I got my birthday wish and my mom gave me the leopard coat I'd been coveting. I love it so much and wear it often, during cold weather.

ASOS - my Leopard Coat (no longer available, similar here)

Leopard is sophisticated and statement making. It's easy to style with a dressy outfit like an LBD or a leather skirt. For me it's not as easy to style it when I'm going casual. It should be easy because a casual outfit can be a blank canvas. But on casual weekends I usually amp up my simple look with rhinestones or over the top shoes. My thinking has always been that I need to keep the rest of my outfit simple and let the coat be the star. I went in search of some inspiration in the form of other bloggers.





Click the photos above to go to their great blogs.



 

As you can see there are some very simple outfits but others begin simple and amp up the style with shoes and accessories. Now it's my turn. This is how I think I will style my coat this weekend. Casual but still a standout.

 

 ASOS leopard fur coat, / Old Navy chunky cable sweater / NYDJ jeans / ASOS black leather booties / Coach Willis handbag / Stella Dot Portia / Stella Dot silver Renegade / Stella Dot gold Renegade

Now my styling brain is on turbo and I can't wait to come up with tons of casual outfits for my leopard coat.

Fashion Inspired by Heart

We decided to take a very short honeymoon trip to the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame (we're taking a longer trip later this year). It's in keeping with our rock inspired wedding and it was an economical trip after spending much of our money on the wedding.  I know Cleveland isn't everyone's ideas of a  romantic honeymoon destination but {msL} and I have a great time no matter where we go. This week the female fronted rock band, Heart will be inducted into the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame.  I think it's about time. They are one of my favorite bands.  Not only did Ann and Nancy Wilson sing but they wrote the songs and played instruments too.  Trailblazers! In honor of these two talented and stylish ladies, I thought I'd show how their style is influential, event today.

Click above for info on the fashion.

The style of Ann and Nancy has evolved over the years.  They went from bohemian, to 70's tailored fashion, to 80's over the top and now they've settled into their own style.  I love their early influences, boots, pants with tuxedo stripes, chokers, fur, and lots of black eyeliner.

I'm looking forward to our visit to the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame. Check out Heart's biography here.

Frugal Fashion Friday - My Picks for Fall Coats and Jackets

Over the years I've built quite a collection of coats and jackets. One of the reasons I like fall and look forward to the change of seasons is great jackets and coats.  If it weren't for these fun toppers, I might consider moving to a warmer climate. When the weather starts to get cool, I begin to create my list of must have coats and jackets. Here are a few of my favorites, this year.

A leopard car coat has been on my list for several seasons.  I just haven't found quite the right coat, I wanted low fur pile, tan with black accents. This one from ASOS is perfect. I love motorcycle style jackets.  These two, one in tweed and one that's a mix of faux leather and knit are fresh takes on the traditional style.  A trench with faux leather accents is a fun twist on the classic.  Tweed added to a white denim jacket gives polish to an easy weekend jacket. A sequin bomber is glitzy and statement making, enough said.  The graduated profile of a traditional blazer will work well at work and with jeans. This Victorian style coat looks modern in a red floral print.

Do you love coats and jackets as much as I do? Make sure to check back next week.  I'll be announcing a fantastic giveaway of one of my favorite Stella & Dot jewelry pieces!

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!

Moment of Lust - Christian Louboutin Morphing Leopard-Print Bootie

There are so many things that make the Morphing Leopard-Print Bootie from Christian Louboutin perfect. Is it the interesting heel? Is it the leopard print? Is it the ankle boot style? For me it's all of the above. The only thing I don't love is the price.

I searched and searched and didn't find a bootie exactly like the Loubs but I found a few decent options for the thrifty girl.  This first version by Steve Madden is a tad western but still a cute option.

This version from Charlotte Russe has a much more stiletto like heel than the Loubs but it's a steal at $17.99. Perfect if you think this will be a passing fancy for you.

This bootie happens to be my personal favorite.  I know it's a peep toe and a wedge. Both of these facts keep it from coming close to being a substitute for the coveted Louboutins but I love it!  The wedge is perfect for me, the peep toe means I can wear it for many months. This one is on my list. I may have to use my DSW certs and cash in to get a great discount.

Frugal Fashion Friday - My Spring Short List

I know I told you all that I'd be guest blogging on the DC Goodwill Fashionista today, well there was a bit of a mix up and I'll be guest blogging there next week.  Each season I create a list, a short one of items I really want to purchase.  The items may be a trend piece or a hole in my wardrobe. I keep the list in my phone. I can refer to it when I'm shopping and it helps me stay on track and reduces my impulse buying.  Also, if I know what I want, it's easy to keep an eye out at thrift stores and for online sales.  If you don't know what you need then it's hard to wade past all those wants and "Oh Those are Cute!".  I also include items like bras, undies and other foundations on the list, even though they aren't exciting. Here is my short list for spring 2012.  I've already snagged the pants, during my vacation this past week.

1) Yellow Blazer - I love the bright pop of color for work or play.
2) Wedge Sandals - I have a tan pair of sandal like, wedge, shoes (seen here) that I wore often last summer. I'd like another pair in a different style.
3) Studded and spiked bracelets - They toughen up a sweet summer look, especially pastels.
4) Bright pants - I wear black pants and jeans often.  A pair of brightly colored pants will brighten my wardrobe.  I found a pair almost this color last weekend at Goodwill!
5) Leopard heels - I have a pair of low leopard wedges. I'd love to find a comfy pair of heels that I can use to switch things up from my usual black.

What's on your short list?

Happy Friday Real Girls!

When Life Gets in the Way

As much as I hate to admit it, this has been a bit of a lack luster this week here on RGR. We got home from vacation on Monday evening and my paying job has been non-stop ever since.  I've been getting home late from work and haven't managed to get to bed until late every night, trying to catch up on personal things.  I've also been working on a guest post I'll be doing tomorrow for the DC Goodwill Fashionista. These are pathetic blogger excuses, I know and I promise to make it up to you all next week.

Because of all of this craziness I was inspired to talk about getting dressed in the morning  Since I've been blogging and folks know I have a fashion blog, I feel a little more pressure to pull off great daily outfits. That being said, there are days when I'm just not feeling creative or fashionista like. I've gone to bed without a thought of my outfit for the next day.  I get up late or I'm in a hurry. To avoid the boring old office uniform of a black skirt and white blouse, I've devised a couple of quick dressing strategies.

Pick a Simple Base
I have a couple of dresses that are like a blank canvas. They are solid colors, gray, blue, raspberry, etc.  A great fitting dress can take you from day to night and you only have to grab that single item to get started. If you aren't feeling the dress, use a monochromatic, pants and top base.  The top and pants don't have to match exactly but the same color range helps.  And bonus, a monochromatic look is slimming on all figures.

Spice It Up With Accessories 
Adding accessories doesn't just mean jewelry.  With a basic dress, you can add an interesting or contrasting belt, standout shoes and a colorful bag.  You can also never go wrong with a statement necklace and an arm party of bracelets.


Choose a Great Topper
If it's still cool outside, you can pick a jacket or coat that will get you noticed. I'm a big fan of print coats in bright colors.  If your dress is a neutral, you could choose a bright colored trench.

Using these three simple ideas, it makes getting dressed a bit easier. When I'm in a rush or feeling uninspired, it keeps me from losing my mind.

Do you have quick dressing strategies of  your own?  I'd love to know what they are, please share.

Animal Attraction

One of the big trends for fall is animal print. I told you about python but I'm also seeing lots of other animal prints and fur.  It's one of my favorite ways to spice up an outfit.  You can take a basic palette and make it more interesting with animal print or fur.  I have lots of options when it comes to mixing it up with animal prints. I even found a new accessory, animal print nails.

Leopard Print Nails

Some of my other favorites ways to wear animal print...

Clockwise from Top Left: Leopard print scarf (in green and black), Vintage Lizard Bag,  
Fur Vest dressed down for a baseball game, Leopard print bag (scored at Loehmann's for only $25),
Snake Ring (always a conversation starter)

This post is part of the Bloggers Do It Better challenge over at Pretty Shiny Sparkly.  I love seeing the outfits that other bloggers wear. It's fun to see each person's own interpretation. 



Moment of Lust: Alexander Wang Diego Bucket Bag - Leopard

I love this bag for so many reasons.  The leopard is bold. The studded bottom is tough. The bucket style is casual. The dual handles make it versatile.

The price tag on the bag (if you can even get one) is $950!  That is way out of my price range. I went in search of alternatives.

The most similar bag I found was from a web site called Yes Style. This bag is $48!  I've never ordered from this site before so I can't attest to the service or quality. It is an international site. I will check out other shopper reviews before I place an order.

This bag is by Nine West. It isn't a bucket bag but even though it's listed as a satchel, the lines are a bit slouchy, like a bucket. It's not studded but it has the dual handles and it's leopard. It is available at Macys.com for $65.

For only $12.50, you can get this leopard print canvas cross body bag! It's available at Old Navy.

Animal Attraction - It's All Leopard

In looking for ways to spice up my wardrobe, you can never go wrong with a little animal print.  My hands down favorite is leopard.

I have the following on my list of leopard items to add to my wardrobe, in no particular order:

• shoes
• belt
• faux fur coat

There affordable options out there. They are easy to find with a little searching.  Here are my picks.

The Merona Marlis Sliver Wedge, $24.99 at Target.

The hair calf belt from Talbots, $44.00.

Leopard print, faux fur coat, $299.00 from Fabulous Furs.  This is great coat but the price is a little higher than I would like. I'm still hunting for the best coat.