Virtual Shopping - French and Fashion Tees

I've been loving all of the fun graphic tees available lately. The shirts with French phrases or fashion nods have been the ones I am draw to. Somehow it's super easy to dress up a t-shirt when France or fashion is involved.

Click on the items above to view buying information.

Just add heels and a statement necklace and your fun t-shirt is ready to play dress up.



Click items above for buying information.

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.

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?

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!

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?

Virtual Shopping - Talbots

There are two qualities I love in a store, quality merchandise at a reasonable price and items that come in all sizes (petite to plus).  There is nothing worse than finding a great item and then discovering that it doesn't come in your size.  I hate that!  Those two qualities are the main reasons I LOVE Talbots.  They have beautiful clothing at reasonable prices.  Sometimes, like this past weekend, you can find amazing bargains.  Like the skirt and top I got for 75% off.  I only paid $25 for both items!!

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.

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.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Easy Holiday Party Staples

It's really hard for me to believe that next week is Thanksgiving.  The year seems to have flown by and the Holidays are upon us.  That means Holiday parties and events for work, family and friends. There is a party or event happening almost every weekend from Thanksgiving through New Years.  I love Holiday parties, getting together with friends and dressing up.  At lots of these occasions I will see the same faces.  It sounds a bit Hollywood but I don't want to show up in the same outfit twice. Even more important, I want to feel stylish, confident, and at ease. There are also those impromtu and last minute events where I'll need a quick outfit that will look great.

Over the years I've come up with some strategies for these events. I've bought some stand by items that have served me well and they are my go to party items. I feel polished and confident in them and they are easy to mix and match with great tops and accessories to create an easy to throw together party outfit.

My Go To Party Items

• Tuxedo Jacket - They are available in all sizes, styles and price points. You can wear it with a skirt or a pair of jeans and look polished.
• White Dress Shirt - Pair it with your tuxedo jacke or your satin skirt, ala Sharon Stone (see below).
• Great Tee - A simple, well fitting t shirt in a neutral color can dress down your maxi skirt or be a blank canvas for your tuxedo jacket and statement necklace.
• Stand Out Shoes - Choose a pair that fit your personal style, taste and comfort level. I have a pair of heels and a pair of flats, I choose based on my mood and need for comfort.
• Statement Necklaces - I have several but if you only want one, pick a version that suits your personality.  You can wear it to a party or to dress up your jeans and tee.
• Satin Maxi Skirt - I love my satin maxi skirt. I have worn it so many times to different events and it's my go to for evening weddings. If satin isn't your style, try chiffon, or silk.

I found all of the items listed above at a bargain.  By checking department store outlets like Saks Off 5th and Nordstrom Rack, I scored the satin skirt ($40) and tuxedo jacket (Gianfranco Ferre, $60) for a steal. I also own a men's tuxedo jacket that I bought at Goodwill for $6. My white dress shirt is a no iron shirt. It makes it easy to wash and care for. A t shirt with stretch in a fabric like Tencel or Modal will keep its shape and drape beautifully.  I used to select party shoes just for their looks but after suffering through many parties in pain, I've changed my way of thinking.  I now own a few pairs that look great but feel great as well. I even own a pair of party shoes that are flats. Statement Necklaces can be found in every price point.  Check out discount retailers like Target and Kohl's for amazing bargains.  A satin or dressy maxi skirt can be your go to for many fancy events and parties.  I've worn my to fundraising dinners as well as evening weddings.  It's a simple palette that can be dressed up or down. In searching the web I found them in every color (mine is black) at bridal retailers for less than $50!

I mix and match my tuxedo jacket with jeans, skinny pants, and skirts.  I've worn the skirt with a white dress shirt, t shirt, chiffon blouse and more.  Pairing them with a statement necklace, stand out shoes and a fun bag can take these basic staples to the next level.

Many celebs have mastered the art of amazing party outfits.  My favorites are those that mix the fancy with the simple. Here are a few of my favorites.

Sharon Stone in her GAP t shirt
at the 1996 Academy Awards

Sharon Stone wearing
her husband's white dress shirt and a Vera Wang skirt
at the 1998 Academy Awards 

Olivia Palermo wearing a tuxedo jacket, flats and cigarette pants

Basic go to pieces are the key for me when dressing for parties.  It takes the stress out of deciding what to wear or buying a new outfit every time.  New outfits are fun but my budget doesn't always allow for that extra purchase, especially during the holidays.

Tuxedo Jacket, $10 Sequin Skirt, Bargain Stand Out Shoes (Details Here)

T Shirt and Statement Necklace
(also wearing my satin maxi skirt, not pictured)

What's your go to party ensemble?

The New Preppy

I've read several articles recently and seen tons fashion spreads heralding the new preppy chic. In the 80's The Preppy Handbook was published. Madras, boat shoes and polo shirts were all the rage. I had my share of madras shorts and begged my mom for a Lacoste polo. The new preppy is about taking the classic preppy looks and making them your own.

This outfit came about organically. It's been crazy hot this week and this green dress from Old Navy (bought last summer) is cool and a great summer shade. Then I spied the short sleeve pink sweater on the shelf. I love the color but it immediately made me think of Muffy at the country club. Pink and green scream preppy to me. Hello Lilly Pulitzer. I decided to try it out with some other accessories. Mixing in the hot pink belt, statement necklace, menswear oxfords and big watch helped to freshen the look.

Dress - Old Navy, Sweater - Old Navy, Belt - Target, Necklace - The Limited (circa 1987), Shoes - Bass, Watch - Relic via Kohl's

Have you embraced the new preppy or do you hate it? I'd love to hear thoughts or see your looks.