Summer Dreams

Like many east coast residents, I am so ready for winter to end and summer to begin. I'm a warm weather girl at heart and can't wait for cute summery shoes, evenings dining al fresco, and sunglasses. Maybe it's wishful shopping but my purchases lately have been all about warm weather.

clockwise from top left - 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 

All Dressed Up clutch - I love a big clutch. This one is 9"x13", which is perfect for me. It's a pouch, so it's easy to carry and I love the cheeky saying imprinted on both sides. It will be fun for day or evening.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick in Orchid - Fuchsia is always a go to color for me when it comes to lipstick. This new line from Revlon doesn't contain wax, it comes in lots of colors (Orchid is my fave) and I really like the creamy texture.

Silver Brow Bar sunglasses - Since the designer version was out of my price range, I snagged this look for less pair on Amazon. I also love the white and gold version.

Shay Lace Up Flats - I've been eying these flats for over a month now. I could decide if I should spend the money but I go to the site a few times a week to make sure they are still available. For some time they were only available in black and the gray version was just released. I had to snatch them up before they were gone.

Kaia Pendant Necklace - The Moroccan look of this necklace by Stella and Dot is perfect for summer. I picture it with a flowy, white top or a colorful sundress. The photo does not do it justice. The stones have a opalescent quality to them.

Metal graphic tee - I'm a sucker for a funny graphic tee. This one is so me. I'm a rocker girl to my core but I have a soft side. This tee will be a fun addition to my summer wardrobe or great under my tuxedo jacket for evening.

What items are on your spring/summer wish list?

Fashion and Friendship Friday (and a Giveaway)

Yesterday I had a big deadline for my full time job. I know I promised to work on finding a blogging, work and life balance and I'm not really doing that yet. The main paycheck won out over the last two weeks. I'm taking a three day weekend and I'm working on some fun things for next week. Behind the scenes I have been making some things happen. Today, my dear friend and blogger Alison, is giving away the beautiful Fortuna necklace (in either gold or silver, your choice)!! I read her blog, Wardrobe Oxygen, daily. Alison was one of the first bloggers I ever met in person.

Fortuna Necklace (three ways)

If you follow me on instagram, you saw this photo from the DC Goodwill gala. I'm wearing the Stella and Dot Pegasus necklace in this photo. We don't get to see each other as often as we'd like but when we do, it's always a great time. Alison is celebrating 10 years of Wardrobe Oxygen and I'm thrilled to celebrate her success and her wonderful blog.

Make sure you check out her blog and enter the giveaway!

Happy Friday Real Girls!

WINNER: Stella & Dot Rory Necklace

Thank you to everyone who entered the giveaway for the Stella and Dot Rory necklace. I hope you will all keep reading and stay tuned for more great style and giveaways. I've been neglecting RGR a bit over the last week because I've been focusing on work and some DIY projects.

CONGRATULATIONS!!

to

Trish C. F.!!

 

I will be emailing your soon about your necklace!



My Easter Duds and a Giveaway - Stella & Dot Rory Necklace!

Over the weekend, we made a quick trip to see my Mom. My visits with her are never long enough and this one was delayed because we had a sewer problem at our house. Plumbers earn every bit of their pay, it's a nasty job. There is still more fixing to do and more money to pay (UGH!) but we have a little peace of mind. It was nice to leave that stress behind and spend some time with Mom.

Jacket - Target, Top - Talbots Outlet, Skirt - Talbots Outlet, Shoes - Asos (no longer available but similar here and here), Aviators - Amazon, Rings - gifts, Bracelets - vintage (gifts) and Stella and Dot, Watch - Timex (gift), Lips - Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Lollipop

Rory Necklace (bottom) and Somervell Necklace from Stella & Dot

I also see this necklace styled with a coral top or jacket (like this kimono I just purchased) and some white jeans. I'm sure I'll be wearing it constantly. It's the perfect summer addition.


Would you like to win your very own Rory Necklace?! My good friend and Stella and Dot Stylist, Kristin Biggs has generously offered to give one of you lucky readers a Rory Necklace of your very own. Just enter below by leaving using the handy entry and leaving a blog comment about how you'd wear the Rory. You can also gain additional entries by liking RGR and Kristin on Facebook, following RGR on twitter and tweeting about the giveaway. The contest will end at midnight on May 5th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GOOD LUCK!!

In the Navy

Navy items were all over the fall runway shows and it's easy to see why. It's a flattering color for all skin tones, it's a neutral (just like black) and is a fun a versatile color. I did a little virtual shopping and selected some great navy items. Most of them are under $100. There are even accessory options in navy. Try replacing your favorite black item with one in navy. I'm betting you'll be sold.

Click on any item above for buying information.

 

Sweatshirts are a great seasonal trend. These two in navy, from Old Navy also add sequins and a graphics to the basic sweatshirt. Bold necklaces and earrings are great ways to incorporate the navy trend. By adding some pretty black lace, this basic blouse goes from blah to wow. A classic blazer with white trim can go from weekend to office. This great dress is more interesting in navy and the bottom ruffle is fun. Jacquard print takes this basic navy pants and ups the chic factor. Navy suede pumps are versatile and pretty with a scalloped edge. The pointed toe on these basic loafers makes them more flattering. A quilted vest with a fur collar can take you into winter. Gold buttons and trim are great accents for this classic navy coat. Teal trim is a modern accent on this pretty navy tote.

Do you have your eye on any chic navy items for fall?



Want more of Real Girl Runway? Follow me on twitter / instagram / facebook / pinterest / bloglovin'

Stella & Dot Giveaway and My Wishes

My love of Stella and Dot jewelry is no secret.  It's beautiful high quality jewelry and there are pieces that appeal to everyone. That's why I've joined up with my favorite Stella and Dot Stylist, Kristin Biggs to bring you an amazing giveaway.  Click here to enter to win a $50 Stella and Dot gift card!   NOTE: This giveaway is closed.

These two necklaces, the Kahlo (hematite) and the Pegasus are on my wish list. They are amazing and certainly stand outs. If only I could enter the giveaway.

Frugal Fashion Friday - GOLD Rush under $50

Normally gold isn't my first choice but this week I spied the sweater below and then did a little window shopping on the Stella & Dot website.  There are some amazing gold pieces in their new collection.  Since it's Friday, I thought I'd stick with our frugal theme and find some great gold items under $50.

Cross body bags are a weekend staple for me.  At under $15 this one from Target is perfect.  These statement earrings from Stella and Dot are amazing! They're gold but I love that it's almost an accent to the creamy stones and the rhinestones. Over the summer I scored a pair of sunglasses almost exactly like these from Urban Outfitters. They are a fun alternative to my standard black frames. The gold beads of this Stella and Dot necklace look like stones and I love that it compliments the Foundation bracelet (with tiny green stones) without looking too matchy matchy. This green and gold cocktail ring from Stella and Dot is equal parts vintage and cool.  All of the Stella and Dot pieces work well together.  The chunky heel and cap toe of these blue suede pumps make them look like a pair my Mom owned in the 60's.  The bright blue is fun.  I've been on the hunt for a new iPhone case.  These used combined or alone create five different looks.  The cut out gold cover is so sophisticated.

Searching for all of these fun items has given me a new appreciation for gold.  Do you love gold?

Happy Friday Real Girls!

DIY - Some of my favorites

I've spent the last few days getting things ready for our big wedding DIY weekend. I realized late last night that I didn't have a blog post for today.  Instead of not posting, I decided to give you all a post showing you some of my personal favorite DIY projects. 

Chain Detail Jacket - I love that just some craft store chain can elevate a jacket.  It was one of my early DIY projects and one of my favorites. I wear this jacket often.

Duck Tape Clutch - The reason I love this DIY is because you can use any color or style of duct tape you like.  You can make it your own.

Rock Lyric Tee - Inexpensive t-shirt, stick on letters, spray paint, and your favorite rock lyric are all you need to create this t-shirt. It's a fun and cool addition to your casual wardrobe.

Silver Oxfords - If you have a pair of old oxfords or can grab a pair at the thrift store, you can create these shoes in just a few hours. I used silver but you could use any color you like. Neon pink would be fantastic.

Minty Shades - Nail polish as paint? Yes! The mint green polish elevated these shades from boring to wow and this entire project was finished in about an hour.

Safety Pin Necklace - I love DIY because I can create a designer style necklace for $900 less than the original.  Maybe it's my life long love of punk rock looks but safety pins as jewelry are fantastic.

Metallic Skull - Home decor DIYs are the best.  I get bored easily and love changing up the accents in our home.  A $1 plastic Halloween skull becomes a cool home accent with a little spray paint.

I hope these favorites of mine inspire you to get creative.  I'd love to hear about any projects you create.

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?

Stella & Dot via Instagram

I've mentioned before that I'm partnering with Stella & Dot and stylist Kristin Biggs to bring you some fun new jewelry.  Kristin was kind enough to lend me some pieces to wear and photograph for upcoming posts and articles.  I thought I'd share with you some of the items I've been wearing and how I've been wearing them.

From the top left...

• Sidewinder Ring - I love this ring!! It's hands down one of my favorite Stella & Dot pieces. The rose gold is of the moment. It's also bold and a little dangerous but pretty at the same time.
• Bangles - The Lindsay, the Eleanor, the Carrie, and the Serpent.  I loved wearing these colors mixed. It was fun.
• Femme Fatale Necklace and the Nouvelle Ring - these were a gift from the lovely Kristin.  I've been wearing them constantly. I love the chunky chains of the Femme Fatale and the rugged cuts of the Nouvelle.  You can wear them with everything.
• Stacked Bracelets - (beginning at my wrist) The Tribute bracelet, the Renegade bracelet (in gold), the Nugget Wrap bracelet, the Renegade (in silver), the Carrie bangle (in white, set of three).  I love mixing metals and textures.  This is a great combination.
• Sparkle and Metal - The Luna Wrap bracelet and the Tribute bracelet are pretty worn together or separately.  Again, I love the mix of metals. Fun and not expected. 
• Sidewinder Earrings - A great compliment to the Sidewinder ring without being too matchy.  I like that they are studs but they aren't boring by any means.  They are definitely a statement. 

I love Stella & Dot for the quality and the variety of pieces.  There is something for everyone and every style.  If you're like me and love all sorts of different styles, you can experiment and try out new looks. 

I'm going to be hosting a Stella & Dot Trunk Show later this month.  If you live in the DC area and are interested in attending, please send me an email at realgirlrunway@live.com.  If you don't live in the DC area, you can still participate by clicking this link. Select the pieces you'd like to order and they'll be shipped to you directly.  I will be earning some jewelry via this trunk show and I'll be sharing the wealth with all of you via a give away coming soon.  I can't wait to share it with you!

What is your favorite Stella & Dot piece?

Weekend Rewind via Instagram - Fun All Around

Taking pictures is so much fun but I always forget to bring my camera or I'm lazy about downloading photos. Having a phone that takes great pictures saves me on a regular basis.  I love all of the photo apps on the iPhone.  Instagram is my favorite but I love the composite apps too, like PicFrame. I took some of my Instagram photos from our weekend fun and compiled them in PicFrame.

From the top left...

• Me and Laila hamming it up for the camera.
• Adam and his Gamma on the swings.
• Laila and Adam fishing at the pool.
• A possible wedding venue option - We might have cocktails and cigars out here.

Over the weekend my Honey and I had two special house guests.  Her grandkids stayed with us for the weekend so their parents could have some time alone. She was a young mom so she's a young grandma and we have great fun with them. Our neighborhood pool has a "Fish Out" every year before they open the pool.  They stock the pool with fish and you can come catch them. You pay an entry fee and get poles and bait. We went with our neighbors and had a great time. Then we took the kids to the park and to Dairy Queen for ice cream. I'm still hunting for a great wedding location that won't blow our entire budget.  I'm trying to narrow it down but it's not easy.

From the top left...

•  One of my fun Goodwill finds.
•  My new $14 shades, from Walgreens!
• A fun watermelon lip color for spring and coral nails.
• Layered tops and necklaces.

I always smile when I wear my star bracelet.  I snagged it for just a few dollars and I love it. My new shades were an impulse buy. I spied them while I was at Walgreens dropping off a prescription. They are made by Foster Grant. I love the colored mirrored lenses. I've been on the hunt for a watermelon colored lip stick.  I found this one, Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Sweet Tart.  It's smooth like a balm with buildable color. The polish is Spoiled by Wet n' Wild in Lox-y Lady.  It's only available at CVS and this week you can buy two bottes and get one free. At $1.99 each you can stock up! Last week I wore one of my favorite jackets and layered it with a spring colored shirt, worn open and a tank. Then I layered a ton of necklaces.  I really like the look. It was business with a twist.

If you don't have an iPhone and can't follow my Instagram pics on your phone, you can check them out on Instagrid. All of my photos are instantly posted there.

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Spiked Necklaces

A little while back I spied this pearl and spike necklace by Joomi Lim in Lucky magazine.  It is so cool, I couldn't stand it.  The contrast of the lady like pearls with the big spikes is fantastic!! At $178 it costs a bit more than my budget allows for a glass pearl necklace (even Swarovski).

Pure Expression Choker with Small Pearls and Short Spikes $178

I started hunting and found some amazing spike necklaces in all price ranges. There were so many styles including those with chains, pearls, crystals, in all metals and colors.

Martin & Ricci Gunmetal Plated Feist Necklace $105

Throw in some chains and pearls with the spikes and you have this necklace from Urban Outfitters.  I deconstructed combination of tough and pretty.

Pearl and Spike Choker from Urban Outfitters $19.99

 
I love the chainmaille and spike combination of this choker. It's Medieval looking and it's available on etsy for only $25!  There were lots of other amazing spike necklaces on etsy but this one is my hands down favorite. It's by Eternal Elf Creations.

Spike and Chainmaille Choker by Eternal Elf  Creations via etsy $25

The spike and crystal combination of this pendant is funky and cool. At only $12.80 it's a steal! It's from Forever 21's new Alex and Chloe collection.

Spiked Pendant Necklace from Forever 21 $12.80

I'm also thinking of just purchasing my own spike beads and doing a jewelry DIY.  Then I'll have a great necklace that will truly be one of a kind.

Birthday Rewind via Instagram

I took the day off yesterday (from work and the blog) to celebrate my birthday.  It was a wonderfully relaxing day with lots of fun and surprises.





From top left - Birthday flowers from my Mom, My Birthday outfit (sequin skirt and moto boots),
Tahitian pearl earrings (a gift from my Honey), Deep fried Deviled Eggs (Bday dinner appetizer),
Amazing chain necklace (a gift from my sister), Birthday pie (I love chocolate pie!)





Note: pics taken via Instagram app. Follow me - realgirlrunway

Frugal Fashion Friday - Thrifting Treasures

Recently I've found some great items at thrift stores.  I wish I could say that there was amazing strategy behind these finds. But to tell you the truth it boils down to two things.  Finding a good store and pure luck.  I shop at thrift stores all over but there are definitely stores that I consider my favorites. They have become my favorites because of their selection and organization.  I don't always hit the jackpot but it's rare that I leave empty handed. That being said, the real key is luck.  Even in my favorite stores, some days I find something fantastic and other days I may just find a scarf or top.  A scarf or a top isn't inconsequential but in my fashion girl head they pale in comparison to finding designer duds for a bargain at the thrift store. 

Lady luck of fashion has smiled on me many times. I've walked away with some amazing designer items, for a bargain.

• Four Coach bags (one was given as a gift)
• Cole Haan shoes
• vintage Pappagallo bag and covers
• Whiting and Davis silver mesh bag
• 2 pairs of Ferragamo shoes
• Diane von Furstenberg dress (given as a gift)

Here are my recent finds, including the two pairs of Ferragamos.  I found them both in one week!

Clockwise from Upper Left: Gold Necklace for a DIY, Cap toe nude Ferragamos,
Maroon and black, cap toe Ferragamos, Chinese Guardian Lions for a DIY

I'll be showing you the DIY projects next week.  I can't wait for you to see how this necklace has been transformed. It had lost its luster and the gold was worn and pitted in places.  When I saw it, I just knew it was begging for a spray paint DIY.  The bright green color of the Guardian Lions made my Honey love them and me hate them.  I saw the possiblities in a great coat of spray paint and transforming them into something brand new. Like this...

When I went to the thrift store where I found the nude Ferragamos, I was initially looking for jewelry.  After striking out in the jewelry department, I wandered down the shoe aisle and saw the nude cap toe pumps. I was excited because after seeing these photos, I decided I needed a pair of cap toe pumps. Lucky me, I found two pairs and they are Ferragamos!  I paid $9.98 for the nude pair and $13.99 for the red and black suede pair. That's usually more than I would pay for thrift store shoes but these are barely worn, well cared for, Italian leather shoes, that originally sold for around $500 a pair. I couldn't walk away.  Now I have two very different pairs of cap toe pumps that I purchased for about $24.  A bargain considering that's what shoes can go for at Target or Payless.



photo credit:  Atlantic-Pacific





photo credit: Stylish Distractions

 
I can't wait to style them up similar to these looks. I've always loved pairing my boucle jackets with jeans and this will amp up the lady like factor even further.  I hope you enjoy your weekend.

Happy Thrifting Real Girls!

Easy Weekend with Flair ala JewelMint

When I was younger I would haul ridiculously large suitcases with me for weekend getaways.  I'd take a ton of clothes and only wear a few items. Years of travelling, hauling my own suitcase and TSA restrictions have turned me into a traveller that can pack for a weekend in a small carry-on bag. That means easy to pack items, double duty clothes and accessories to spice up my looks.

You all know my love and obsession with JewelMint. I love their jewelry. Every month I have to decide how many of the new pieces I can afford.  When my friends at JewelMint offered me the chance to choose three of their amazing pieces to style for a weekend trip, I jumped at the chance. Inspired by the Egyptian influences in some of the July pieces, I picked a ring, earrings and a necklace.  The pieces I chose were the Scarab ring, Isis earrings, and the Farrah necklace.  One of my favorite pieces of jewelry is a vintage scarab bracelet given to me by my dad and the Scarab ring is a modern take on that bracelet.

When choosing the items to style, I wanted pieces that could be worn together or separately and I love the possibilities in the Farrah necklace.  I styled three looks using all three pieces. Since I received my new jewelry I've worn them toether but I've also worn these stand out pieces alone at various times. 

For a day time look I paired a simple white tee with a flowy skirt, scarf and sandals. The JewelMint pieces compliment the look and give a little bit of an Egyptian touch.

Tee - Old Navy, Skirt - Lane Bryant, Scarf - Goodwill, Sandals - Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohl's



Combining a halter style tankini, a sarong and the JewelMint pieces, I created a chic look for a pool party or the beach. I decided to wear the Farrah necklace as a bracelet to give the look a bit of a different flair.



Takini - Target, Sarong - Beach shop in Key West





Farrah Necklace as a bracelet, Scarab Ring - c/o JewelMint



  

Inspired by the caftans of Morocco I chose a comfortable maxi dress for an evening look. I added some strappy wedges and the JewelMint pieces but tied the Farrah necklace as a bit of a choker.

Farrah Necklace as a choker

I have a special offer for you my dear readers.  Do you love these JewelMint pieces or want to see more? Compliments of my friends at JewelMint, they are offering you 50% off of your first piece of JewelMint jewelry, for one week only! 

You'll take a quick style quiz and then you'll get personalized recommendations from JewelMint stylists. They have great new pieces each month. Every piece of jewelry is just $29.99 which includes beautiful packaging and free shipping.

Click on the link and when you check out, just enter the code below.

http://jmnt.co/q0Od8i

RealGirlRunway50

Code expires: 8/25/2011

Using easy to pack pieces and great jewelry, I created three outfits for a weekend trip.  The beauty is that some items can be changed up depending on your plans. How do you pack for a weekend getaway?

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.

DIY - Safety Pin Necklace

I was inspired to make my own version of the Tom Binns Safety Pin Necklace.  The original is no longer available but similar versions of his necklaces sell for over $900. The original looks like this...

Tom Binns Safety Pin Necklace

Instead of using rhinestone strands I decided to make the safety pins sparkle.

Supply List

1. large safety pins
2. jump rings
3. chain of different sizes and types of metal (if desired)
4. glitter glue
5. pliers

I started by coating the head of each pin with glitter glue. I coated one side, let it dry completely and coated the other side.

While the pins were drying I determined the length of my necklace. Then using pliers I created length of chain for my necklace. Some lengths of chain were shorter. Using small jump rings attached to each end of the safety pin, I joined two lengths of chain on several strands.  I used a safety pin as the necklace closure.

• safety pins - from my sewing kit
• glitter glue - $3 (plenty left for a future project)
• chain -  $10 (with left over chain) + some left from my DIY - Chain Detail Jacket
• jump rings - from my jewelry supplies (you can get them for a few dollars at the craft store)

FINAL COST  - $13
SAVINGS - $900+

DIY Inspiration

I find DIY inspration in all sorts of places. My latest are...

Knifty Knitter

I've tried several times to learn how to knit. I could never get the hang of it and mostly I think it was my lack of patience that kept me from mastering the art. I've been saved by the Knifty Knitter. My first project was a cowl, made using the large yellow loom, in one afternoon!

Tom Binns safety pin necklace

I'm creating my own version of this cool necklace. It's edgy and pretty all at once.

Pleated Maxi Skirts

The lady like style of a pleated skirt is timeless. If I purchase pleated fabric, this should be an easy DIY. Geneva of A Pair and a Spare, has a great post about making her own version. My mom is visiting soon and I'm sure this will be on our project list.

Lots of Love for LowLuv

I am newly obsessed with model Erin Wasson's LowLuv jewelry line (LowLuv X Erin Wasson). It's funky, industrial and unique. All of the things I love in jewelry. Erin has great personal, laid back, Cali girl style. It really shows in her designs.

Below are a few of my favorites.

Armor Knuckle Ring

Double Finger Ring

Cutout Necklace

Gear Bangle

Shopbop carries most of the line as well as some exclusive pieces. Prices range from $30 - $213.  There are lots of affordable items.