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?

Inspiration - White Transition

We are still in the heat of summer but all of the stores are having summer sales to make way for fall merchandise. This started me thinking about items I'm wearing often, now and how I can wear them into the fall.  My white jeans and white blazer have become staples this summer. I don't subscribe to "the fashion rule" of no white after labor day. You know me, I'm a rule breaker. These ladies are great inspiration for wearing my jeans and blazer into the fall.

You could use these same cues to transition a white skirt or dress.

photo credits (from top to bottom): eat sleep denim, Lady Lazlo, eat sleep denim, Grasie Mercedes, The Versastyle

Summer to the Max

Maxi dresses are one of my favorite summer, go to, outfits. They are just so easy to wear and a no brainer when it comes to styling. I think they are one of the most versatile items in your closet. By just changing your shoes and your accessories, one dress can be worn multiple ways, dressed up or down. I love all types of maxis.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

 

I was lucky enough to snag this caftan at the Goodwill spring trunk show. I'd been searching for a fun summer maxi. I had a flowy option in mind but at $6, it was an amazing buy. I'll be adding my new crystal green mirror Ray-Bans, these easy gold gladiators and a matte pink lip. All of  these items are all recent purchases and were great deals.



Click the photos above for buying informaiton.

 

A flowy, halter maxi is definitely on my summer must list. This one reminds me of the DC cherry blossoms. I'd pair it with my black Birkenstocks, sheer pink lipstick, and pink mirror aviators. I could also change out the Birks for heels and add some sparkly jewelry for evening.



Click the photos above for buying information.

 

If you're headed to a summer evening party, you could switch out your little black dress for a little black maxi. Silver flat shoes will be dressy but let you stand and chat. A sheer red lip says sophisticated in a easy summer way. Matching mirror shades will greet the sunset in style.

There are so many great maxi options, in every style imaginable. They work at the beach or at a cocktail party. I love them most because the look pulled together, with minimal effort.

Will you be wearing a maxi dress this summer?

My Must List - Summer 2014

As my style has evolved and I've become more selective, my seasonal must lists become smaller. I'm more discerning about the pieces that I add to my wardrobe. If I'm going to spend the money, I want them to be quality pieces that will last. I save the super cheap purchases for trendy items. Now that doesn't mean that I pay full price for my long term purchases. I still look for the best price and the best value for my money.

photo credits: Pink Peonies, Getty Images, Ms Treinta

The images above scream summer to me. Sun, beach, warm weather, sandals, white, and bright colors are all the best of summer fashion. They inspired me to make a few updates and acquire a few new summer items.

Click the photos above to view buying information.

I've been obsessed with mirror sunglasses since I wrote this post two summers ago. I purchased a couple of bargain pairs last summer and then Ray Ban released some new mirror versions. These green aviators are fantastic. I might just have to take the plunge. You can't get more classic than Ray Ban aviators. A big tote has been my constant companion lately. It can hold everything. I love this Rebecca Minkoff MAB tote in hot pink. A great summer update to a classic shape. I've been loving lace up sandals but I knew a 4 inch high pair wouldn't get much wear. I tend to gravitate more toward my 2.5 inch heels and below. Lucky for me, over the weekend I scored a pair by Nine West at Nordstrom Rack. I posted a photo on Instagram. I'm in love! A super flowy maxi dress in a bright color is high on my summer must list. I love this trapeze style that can be worn loose or belted. I'm in desparate need of a new swimsuit. We live by the pool and at the beach all summer. My suits have seen better days and I've had a retro one piece style in mind. I love this one in white.

What is on your summer MUST list?

Insta Monday - Spring Is In The Air

I am without a doubt, a warm weather girl. It's thrilling to see the sun shining, wear open toe shoes and drive with the sun roof open. This weekend was a busy one and I spent more time with family and friends than doing blog posts for the week. I love Instagram but sometimes you want to say more than is possible in the short post. I thought I'd elaborate on a few of my recent photos.



From Top Left (clockwise)

• Blooming Cherry Trees - The area is full of blooming cherry trees (similar to the ones surrounding this National Mall). They signal the start of spring and their pretty pink blossoms always make me happy.

• DIY Distressed Jeans - I created my first pair of distressed jeans (like these expensive ones) recently and I love how they turned out. I am hunting for a few thrift stores pairs to add to my distressed jeans arsenal. I'm planning a DIY post soon.

• Coffee Table Decorations - The tray has been repainted again (you've seen it here in silver). I'm loving it in gold. The candy dish is Depression glass that belonged to my Aunt Em. She used it to hold homemade jam. The pretty roses are from my friends' garden.

• Baseball Game - We received a last minute invite from my sister to attend Friday night's Nationals game. We had a blast, the team won, and we got our faces up on the jumbotron!

• New Polish - This pretty neutral polish (Zoya Rue) was in the People VIP Beauty box I received last week from People Magazine and Klout. It's a fantastic color. I also got a free three month subscription to People Magazine. If you'd like your own subscription, click this link for a great deal.

• New Sunnies from Nectar - I received some new sunnies complements of Nectar sunglasses. I love them. Besides being stylish and mirrored (hot trend that I love) they are super comfortable and affordable. I will be doing a review post soon. In the meantime, if you'd like to check out the sunnies and get a 10% discount on your order, click this link and use the code: lovenectar

To see all of my Instagram photos, be sure to follow me on Instagram and Twitter. My handle on both is @realgirlrunway. Thank you so much for supporting the businesses that believe in and support Real Girl Runway. Show them some love by considering purchases from their businesses.

Stella & Dot Summer Preview

You are all well aware of my love of and for Stella & Dot. Some great new items have arrived just in time for warm weather! I thought I'd share a few of my favorites with you but you can check out the entire collection here.

Rory Necklace

 

Aviva Chandelier Earrings

 

 

Coral Cay Necklace

 

 

Sahara Pendant Necklace

 

Cady Wrap Bracelet

 

 

 



Capri Wrap in Moroccan Tile

You know I love sarongs. This great sarong is on my summer wish list and it will definitely be in my beach bag!

Diamond Raffia Tote

Check out all of the great new arrivals yourself. Stay tuned, I will be styling one of my favorite pieces soon and there will be a giveaway too!

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Go Get Yourself Some Cheap Sunglasses

The DC area got another round of snow yesterday. It's March and we are only two days away from the first day of spring, people!  This is nuts!  Despite this cold and crazy weather, I can't stop thinking of warm weather and summer. I love sunglasses year round and have my fair share of designer pairs but when I'm at the beach, out on a friend's boat or doing any activity that might endanger my precious designer shades, I always go for cheap sunglasses. Here are a few fun pairs to check out for your summer fun. All of them cost less than $20!



Click on the photos for buying information.

I'm especially loving white sunglasses this year. I'd also love to snag a pink pair. I've selected styles to suit all sorts of face shapes. If you are unsure about ordering online, you can use a try-on app like this one from glasses.com and try on a pair with a similar shape. You can also buy your glasses from a place with a liberal return policy or free return shipping (like asos.com ).

Bring on the sun!

The title of this post is from the lyrics of the ZZ Top song, Cheap Sunglasses.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Transition Pieces

One of the best way to make you fashion dollar go further is to purchase pieces that can be worn in multiple seasons. Using some of your summer pieces in fall and some of your fall pieces in late summer can help you through that time that is both warm and cool.  I've pulled together a collection of pieces that I already own (or own similar items).  Using pieces like these with some basics can help to transition you to fall.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

 

This faux leather peplum top is one of new favorite pieces. I can wear it with these plum jeans on the weekend or with dress pants and a boucle jacket to the office. Add the silver oxfords or the cage booties, a great bag and a statement necklace to finish the outfit.

This embellished sweatshirt stands alone. Wear it with the plum jeans, cage booties, and cap on the weekends or throw it on with a simple solid skirt for the weekdays. It's lightweight enough to wear now in a chilly office or later when there is a chill in the air. This necklace from Stella and Dot can be worn five different ways. It won't over conflict with the embellishment on the sweatshirt.

Easy pieces like these can be worn multiple ways and in lots of weather. Making your dollar go further. 

Frugal Fashion Friday - Summer Beach Style Under $20

Every year I look forward to our family beach trip. Over the years I've learned that less is more and items that do double duty are the best. I live in swimsuits, sandals and easy dresses.  Our days are spent on the beach and afternoons and evenings are spent hanging out with the family at the beach house. There is no need for fancy outfits. I enjoy the ease of a sundress and a few simple pieces of jewelry. In case you're headed to the beach this summer, here are a few of my favorite items.



Click the photos above for buying details.

 

A simple wide brimmed sun hat is mandatory for me at the beach.  I wear tons of sunscreen but I also wear a hat. Years ago I bought a wide brimmed straw hat like this one and it is my go to hat for the beach every year. Reading this article in W just confirmed that I'm on the right track when it comes to sun protection. In addition to my hat, I always wear sunglasses, they look great and protect my eyes. This pair looks a lot like a designer pair that costs $138. At $9.99 these are a great deal and they have 100% UVA/UVB protection.

This maxi dress from Old Navy can be worn to the beach or out in the afternoon. You can even change it up by added a belt or a scarf. Multiple wears and less stuff in your suitcase.  A cover up and an evening sundress all in one. Just from their name you know the Double Wear Floating Beaded Elastics from Goody do double duty.  They can be worn on your wrist as a bracelet and when you need to put your hair up, there they are. Pretty and functional. I own three pairs of simple sandals from Kohl's that I purchased almost 10 years ago. I wear them all summer and they've held up well.  They don't make the style I own any longer but these sandals from LC by Lauren Conrad come in ten different colors.  You can wear them to the beach and then out later.

Pretty earrings, like these from Stella and Dot, are a must have for me at the beach.  They are easy to throw on, no matter my hair style and they don't stick to my sweaty summer skin.  They can elevate a simple dress, like the maxi and make it look a bit fancy. Bonus, they are on sale for half price! Pretty toes are also a must for me at the beach.  I love a bright color like this coral.

I always attach a watch to my beach bag. I could sit in the sun all day but it's not good for me. Knowing the time, helps me be smart about my sun exposure. This watch is chic enough to wear out but if something happened to it at the beach, I wouldn't be upset. Speaking of beach bags, this tote from Target is fun and easy to haul to the beach with my sunscreen and magazines.  It's cotton and isn't lined, sand will be easy to shake out and you can wash it without worry. Hydration is important when you are in the sun.  This water bottle from UncommonGoods will save the planet from disposable bottles and infuse your water with flavor.

Can you believe that every item is less than $20!?  Just proving that great beach style doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Summer Beauty

During the warm summer months I switch up my makeup.  In the winter my skin needs more moisture.  In the summer, my former teenage skin kicks in and if my makeup is too heavy, I feel greasy. I also gravitate toward less eye makeup, unless I'm going out at night.  Liquid, winged eyeliner doesn't fly at the beach.

Click the photos above for information.

BB cream is my new buddy. I've tried several and this version by Maybelline is my favorite, so far. It's light, gives good coverage and strikes the right balance of moisture and non-greasy. I always wear eyeliner and Revlon's ColorStay pencil, stays put even in the heat. I'm a new fan of Revlon Lash Potion mascara. I received it to try out and it's great. When I'm swimming or at the beach, I use Maybelline Lash Stiletto Waterproof in brownish/black. It gives my lashes color without looking too made up. Revlon's Photo Ready cream blush in Flushed works great on my summer skin. It's a pretty pink (there are two other colors) that lasts.  No matter the time of year, I'm never without my Cle de Peau concealer.  It covers my dark circles and any other issues, it's also water resistant.  During warmer months, I ditch my colored polish in favor of nude and I use bright colors on my toes. I love colorful polish with my sandals.

We have a pool and we spend time at the beach, so I'm outside constantly. I always wear hats but I also add a much higher SPF sunscreen to my routine. Last but not least, I always start with a high level SPF.  Neutrogena is my all time favorite.  The Ultra Sheer Liquid in SPF 70 is light, gives great protection and my dermatologist swears by the brand.

Do you switch up your makeup routine during the summer?

Inspiration - Summer Maxi Skirt Style

I love and wear my maxi skirts year round.  For me, it's so easy to layer them with shirts and sweaters and my favorite look, with a leather jacket, for winter.  Summer should be a no brainer but many times I stumble on how I want to wear them. I did some searching and found lots of great style.  I love how these ladies have styled their maxi skirts for the warmer months.

They are great inspiration for my summer options. I especially love the outfits in the upper middle, upper right, and center right.  A gauzy tank or shirt may be on my wish list soon and I'll definitely be adding my panama hat to my maxi outfits. There is a fine line between fashionable and sloppy, when styling a maxi.  Proportion is key.  If your maxi has volume, you need to pair it with a top that fits you well. If you opt for baggy, you can end up looking like a bag lady.  Opt for a close fitting t-shirt or a well tailored button up shirt. A thin belt adds polish and definition, without adding bulk.

How do you wear your maxi skirt?

Poolside and Oceanfront - Bargain Style Picks

We are hosting a backyard grad pool party next weekend and of course I'm already thinking about my outfit.  As one of the hosts, I want to look stylish, a little dressy but be comfortable.  We'll be hosting lots of parties this summer and we have our summer beach trip in July.  I wanted my selections to last through the summer and beyond.  Of course, I go for quality as well as a good price.

Poolside and Oceanfront Style

1. Cover-up -  I usually choose a sarong but I'd love to grab a fun new maxi cover up. This one is colorful and pretty but not too heavy. 
2. Earrings - Big earrings are a fun way to wear jewelry to the beach or pool without it weighing you down. These coral inspired gold earrings from Stella & Dot fit with the beach vibe.
3. Sun hat - I love large brimmed hats for the beach and pool. They look great, hide your beach hair, and keep the sun off of your face.  I have a had from the San Diego hat company that I've owned for more than 10 years.  I'd love to get one in another color.
4. Bracelet - I don't wear tons of jewelry to the beach or pool but this stretch version from Stella & Dot will slide off easily before you jump in the water.
5. Swimsuit - I've never been a bikini girl so this retro suit is perfect for me.  It's sexy but covers in a great way.  It's available is sizes 2 - 26!
6. Beach bag - I don't need a bag when I run out to the backyard pool but it's a must for our vacation.  I LOVE our LL Bean canvas bags.  They are affordable, stylish and indestructible.
7. Flip flops - I confess that rubber flip flops are one of my least favorite type of footwear.  I do wear them when I am running around the pool or going to beach. I don't have to worry about sand or dirt and I can rinse them off easily. The beading on this pair give them a bit of flair.
8. Sunscreen - I'm a bit pushy with my family and friends about using sunscreen. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than sunburn. I also know people who have had skin cancer scares.  Also, I wear it without fail.  I love being outside and in order to protect myself and ensure that I preserve the great skin I was born with, sunscreen is mandatory. Neutrogena products are some of my favorite. Last summer I also fell in love with Supergoop wipes. They are towelettes coated in sunscreen. Genius!
9. Sunglasses - I'm a bit of a slut when it comes to sunglasses. I love them and own way too many. My designer pairs are my favorites but they don't go to the beach with me.  I take a pair that I can wear into the water and not care if they get scratched in the sand.  This pair from GirlPROPS is only $4.99!

What are you picks for staying stylish in the sun and by the water?

Sandals for Everyone - aka FU Mother Nature

Last week I was running around sporting my cute new silver Nine West wedge sandals. On Monday morning I woke up to a freezing house and the weather report saying that the DC area would have highs around 46 degrees for the day.  Folks living in western Maryland and West Virginia could look forward to snow!  It's April Mother Nature! Are you giving us the finger? Are you laughing at us mere mortals who are packing away our winter coats? The weather was absolutely beautiful on Saturday.  Sunday we got rain and then Monday, BRRR! In honor of my love of warm weather and my wish that it will be warm again soon I've picked some of my favorite low priced sandals of the spring and summer. Wishful internet shopping all around!

1) Kelly & Katie Sydney Sandal: DSW - $34.95

2) Exclusive Flat Sandal Gold: Target - $16.99

3) Mossimo Supply Company Whilhemina Flat Sandal: Target - $19.99

4) Mossimo Flat Gladiator T-Strap Sandal: Target - $19.99

5) Rosette Sandals: Forever 21 - $14.80

6) Serpent Sandal: Alloy - $14.90

7) Mrkt Holly Suede Sandal: DSW - $69.95

8) Xhiliration Teresa Espadrille Wedge Sandals: Target - $24.00

 9) Mootsie Tootsie Tinsy Platform Wedge Sandals: Kohl's - $34.99

During the summer I live in flat sandals.  I have to admit, I'm not a flip flop girl.  Flip flops are great at the beach but I don't wear them unless I'm around the pool or the ocean.  I prefer sandals with straps.Just because I love the flats doesn't mean I forgo the drama.  Extras like fun colors, tassels, rosettes, metallics, animal prints, and embellishments give me the fun without a heel. 

I hadn't planned to include any heels in this post.  My heart always gravitates toward the beautiful high heels but when I go to my closet, I come away with the flats.  That's why I love wedges and small platforms.  They feel higher but with more stability.  I can't do the 2 inch plus platforms.  My weak ankles take those as an invitation to kiss the ground.  I roll my ankle every time. But I thought I'd show you girls who love the flats, what I use as a compromise.  

I also hadn't planned to feature any shoes over $50 but I just had to include the Mrkt Holly Suede Sandal.  I bought this very sandal last summer in nude.  I love it!  The foot bed is soft, the platform and heel are forgiving which make them easy to walk in and stay in all day. This season DSW has them in cobalt and fuchsia. 

Are you buying new sandals this spring?  What is on your list?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Friday's Fancies Edition Budget Picnic

My blogger friend {av} of long distance loving, hosts a great link up each Friday.  It's called Friday's Fancies and each week there  is a theme.  Quite some time ago I did a Friday's Fancies post for Gal Time. It was so much fun, I decided that I would like to start doing it on a semi-regular basis.  This week the theme is Primped for a Picnic.  All I needed to do was to select a fun outfit to wear to a picnic.  Of course I had to do it Real Girl style and find great style for less.  I decided to select designer items and then find their duplicates for less. I've assembled the budget version. Just click the links below to see the designer inspirations. Since maxi dresses are a favorite spring and summer staple for me, I started with a great version.  A convertible maxi dress!

The Budget Versions

Dress
Designer - Butter by Nadia Jersey Wrap Gown (Cherry) $315
Budget - Target Mossimo Multi Style Convertible Maxi Dress (Florida Coral) $35
How can you go wrong with a maxi dress that can be wrapped and twisted to create 10 or more different looks? It's like getting 10 dresses in one! The Target version comes in eight colors.  I love Florida Coral and Bookoo Leaf.

Sandals
Designer - Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal Studded Toe Ring Thong (Turquoise) $650
Budget - Carlos by Carlos Santana Florida Flat Sandal (Parrot Blue) $49
Crystal studded flat sandals in a fun blue color.  They work with pants, shorts and dresses.  I love all of my flat sandals and live in them all summer.

Earrings
Designer - Ippolita Sterling Silver Cascade Earrings $495
Budget -   Paula's Oversized Silver Disc Charm Chandelier Earrings $28.95
Bright silver chandelier earrings are a little boho and always fun.  They go with everything from t-shirts to a beautiful dress. 

Ring
Designer - John Hardy Dragon Head Ring $795
Budget -  Giant Dragon Head Pewter Ring $13.57
I'm a huge fan of statement rings.  They are always conversation starters and they will never over power your outfit. 

Watch
Designer - Michael Kors Runway Two Tone Chronograph Watch $250
Budget - Vernier Two Tone Chrono Bracelet Watch $29.99
This watch is classic styling with the modern twist of mixed metals and the oversized look.  It's a watch that will be on your arm for years to come.

Sunglasses
Designer - Prada Arm Detail Sunglasses $290
Budget -  GirlPROPS Curlycue Big Lense Sunglasses  $17.99
I fell in love with these unique sunnies a while ago.  But the curly side and the "it" factor kept me from spending the big bucks. Lucky for me there is a great duplicate available.

Champagne
Designer - Dom Perignon $181.99
Budget -Nicolas Feuillatte Brut $22.99
Quite a few years ago a sommelier recommended this champagne to me.  He said it was one of his favorites and he liked it even better than Dom Perignon.  I was shocked but gave it a try.  Up until that point champagne wasn't my favorite but that was because I'd only had sparkling wine. I fell in love and now it's a staple at my house and parties. True champagne is from the Champagne region of France.  It's leaps better than any sparkling wine.


TOTALS
Designer    $2934.99
Budget         $197.49
Savings      $2737.50

An entire outfit for just a little more than the cost of the champagne alone!!!  Now that's budget shopping.

Happy Friday Real Girls!!!

Frugal Fashion Friday (Make that Monday) - One Summer Dress Two Ways

I didn't get a chance to Post Frugal Fashion Friday this past Friday. So here it is on Monday.

All summer I've been wearing lots of dresses and skirts. The crazy heat has forced my outfits into simple and cool silhouettes. I also love easy dresses that you can dress up or down depending on the occasion.  This dress from Asos is easy but colorful for summer and a similar style is available in sizes 2-14 (as well as petite).

The yellow skirt gives great color and I jazzed it up even more with some colorful accessories. Best of all both of these looks cost less than $115!

Asos dress, $29
LLBean Tote handbag, $19
Sandals $41.40
Necklace, $11
Curved Metal Cuff, $3.80

TOTAL: $104.20



Just change up the accessories and shoes for work or a night out.

ASOS a line dress, $29
Stiletto high heels, $25
ASOS oversized clutch, $31
Forever21 bangle bracelet, $3.80
Forever21 sunglasses, $2.80
Simply Vera Vera Wang Silver Tone Bead Cluster Necklace, $21

TOTAL: $112.60

Relaxing In Our Retreat

Since I spent the weekend here...

here...

and here...

and they are all in my backyard, I put little effort into my outfits or styling. I wore no make up and pulled my hair back.

I lived all weekend in a swim suit and sarong.

I thought instead of outfit photos I'd share a few shots of our backyard oasis. My Honey and I have worked hard to make it feel like a vacation at home. I love to travel. But doing things like decorating our outside living/dining room, repainting old patio tables (little table in the third picture) to look new and creating a comfy space for friends and family makes our backyard feel like a vacation every day. No, it's not just the pool that makes me feel like that, although it helps.

The cost of having a pool has severely limited our travel budget. We have to save all year to be able to run the pool during the summer. Knowing that it's a daily retreat lessens the pain of budgeting and fewer trips. The decorating we've done has been on a budget. It's amazing what a can of spray paint can do and what great deals you can find at the end of the season. We've found bright outdoor candles and torches, fun pillows and soft cushions for old plastic chaise lounges, all on sale. Space is nice but you can do the same in a small space. I used to have similar backyard retreat at my little town house, minus the pool. Cozy DIY touches can transform a space. I highly recommend creating your own little oasis.

Even Thrifty in the Heat

One of the reasons that I love thrifting is that you can buy an item with one intention, you get it home and find all sorts of possibilities. I bought this vest last September on my trip to NYC. It's a men's wool, suit vest.  I thought I'd wear it during the winter to jazz up my plain sweaters and long sleeve tees.  The weather the summer has been extra hot.  I've been looking for ways to spruce up my tanks and light outfits.

Three count them, three thrifted items in this outfit!

Vest - thrifted via Goodwill, Pants - thrifted via Goodwill, Tank - Target,
Shoes - Kohl's, Hat - Eugenia Kim for Target, Bracelets - thrifted via Finders Keepers, F21 and Gift
Watch Pendant - Gift

I'm showing this outfit again as part of a blogger challenge on Everybody Everywear.  This month, bloggers are showcasing their thrifted outfits. I'm also going to make a big announcement tomorrow about thrifting and budgeting.



The Most Terrifying Part of Summer

I LOVE the beach and the pool and the sun. I LOVE LOVE LOVE them. I enjoy the change of seasons along with winter coats and layering but warm weather and summer have always been my first love.  I know without a doubt that I could live at the beach somewhere and just occasionally visit the cold weather. That being said, I truly dread planning my swimsuit/beach wardrobe. 

Each summer we spend a wonderful week at the beach.  Our trip is coming up soon. We also have a pool in our backyard. The backyard wardrobe isn't so scary because it's just me, my Honey and close friends or family.  The beach is another story.  Even at my thinnest, I've never been comfortable in a bathing suit. I've learned to purchase more flattering suits but there is still no hiding larger thighs, hips or cellulite. I also hate the idea of being strapped into a bathing suit that feels like corset or that holds in me in so tight that I can't move. So I usually avoid the "shape" suits, but that's just me. I know there are many women that can't live without them.

As you know the majority of my weight is on the lower half of my body.  This presents a challenge. No matter what I wear, it won't hide my least favorite body part, my legs. In an effort to feel more confident and comfortable in my beach attire, I've come up with a few strategies.  They are:

1) RETRO - Embrace retro style swimsuits that sit lower on the leg or can be adjusted without looking frumpy.

2) SEPARATES - Select separates, so that I can purchase different size tops and bottoms for the best fit.

3) SARONGS - Gather an amazing collection of  sarongs that I use for color and coverups.

4) DETAILS - Select suits with interesting details around the top to draw the eye up.

5) A BREAK - Remember that even when I was 20 I didn't have the same body as some of the beautiful women in my family and to give myself a break.


Here are some of my picks for the beach and pool this summer, for those of us that aren't buying bikinis.

RETRO
This retro style suit from Wal-Mart is fantastic! The only draw back might be that it's listed as a shape type suit. I'd have to try it on to be sure it didn't feel corset like. Best of all you can get it in sizes Small to 3x, in red, aqua, and black and it's only $32.

Maybe it's the cut or it could be the styling but I find this suit so gorgeously retro that even the higher pricetag didn't deter me from sharing it with you.  I love the plunge at the top, combined with the gathers and the low sides. At $118, it's a priced a bit higher than I would like. The suit is only in plus sizes (but I've seen similar styles in all sizes) and it's by Kiyonna from Sonsi.

SEPARATES
Most times, one piece swim dresses remind me of the bad polyester suits that older ladies wore in the 70's. I know the designs are much better now but I can't get that image out of my head. However, the tankini swim skirt combo can avoid that dowdy look. I own one swim skirt that is a retro style. It has draw strings on the side so that I can adjust it low for a skirt look or higher for swimming. My skirt came from Land's End last season. Unfortunately, they don't carry that style any longer.

This tankini top from Lands' End is pretty, comes in many colors and is available in sizes 2 - 26W.  It's priced $34.50 and $41.50.  Shell beach solid ruffle tankini top 34.50 and 41.50 2-26W

The shirred mini from Lands' End ($31 - $38) has some runching at the tummy to hide anything you don't want seen and it would be a fun compliment to the ruffle top.

I like boy shorts and these from One Stop Plus (Torrid) are even a bit girlie and retro. The cinching strings on the side can shorten them or lengthen them depending on the look you want.  At $34.50, they are an affordable option.

SARONGS

Bright, multi-colored sarongs can be worn with more than one suit. I prefer sarongs made out of rayon instead of polyester but that's just a personal preference. I find them softer and absorbent.  The sheer poly sarongs don't usually have those advantages. I really like the colors of this hand painted hibiscus sarong. I have a similar sarong that I've owned for 5 plus years.  I've taken care of it and it still looks brand new. The one is from 1 World Sarongs for $24.99.   1 World Sarongs also carries plus size sarongs.

This sarong is so light and pretty.  The white background accents the purple floras.  It's from amazon.com for only $15.95.

If florals aren't your thing, maybe a cool tie dye design would do the trick.  I found this one on amazon.com and it's from Curious Designs for just $11.95!

I've found some of my favorite sarongs on the sale racks of beach shops.  Toward the middle and end of the season you can find some great deals. If you need tying or styling tips, here is a link to How To Tie a Sarong on the 1 World Sarongs website. Here is another with pictures.

DETAILS

The mesh panel at the top of this suit is chic. The silhouette is simple. It's from Wal-Mart and at only $15 you can't beat it! 

I'm a huge fan of Lands' End swimsuits.  The prices are reasonable. This suit is $41.50 - $48.50. The quality is high and many of their styles come in sizes from 2 - 24W (as well as petite cuts). This ruffle one piece is sweet and colorful.  The ruffle at the top draws the eye up. 

A BREAK
There's nothing I can buy to make giving myself a break easier. A few years ago I saw an interview with Mariel Hemingway. Something she said really stuck with me. She said that she realized that she'd been saying lots of mean things to herself her whole life. If someone else said the means things to her that she says to herself, she wouldn't be friends with that person. She realized that it shouldn't be ok for her to say those things to herself. Her words are true. I would never let someone else talk to me that way. It has helped me to think about the mean things I think and say to myself. I try harder now to be kinder to myself.  I hope her words help you too.

Good luck to all of you who hate swim suit shopping as much as I do.  I hope that you have a wonderful summer in spite of those feelings and that we all learn to love ourselves a little more.

Warm Weather Menswear

This outfit was inspired by my sister.  On Friday night we went to the Nationals game and she was wearing a tank sweater under a men's vest. It looked so chic that I had to try it for myself. I thought I'd add the fedora and watch pendant to enhance the menswear look.

Tank - Target, Vest - Goodwill, Cropped Pants - Goodwill, Sandals - Simply Vera Wang Kohl's,
Sunglasses - DKNY via Nordstrom Rack, Fedora - Eugenia Kim for Target, Earrings - gift,
Watch Pendant - gift, Bracelets - Finder's Keepers, F21, gift 

I hope you all had a great July 4th holiday weekend!