Inspiration - Jeans and Heels

I've been in love with the look of jeans and heels for some time now. The beauty of this look is that you can so easily change it up and make it your own. Dress it up or dress it down. The coolest part is that when you throw on some heels (high or kitten) and add a great accessory or two it elevates your jeans and gives them new life.

 

 

photo credits: WhoWhatWear.com, Lovely-Pepa.com

Jeans, heels and a dressy jacket is one of my all time favorite looks. Those distressed jeans that you used to throw on with your ratty sneaks are now more sophisticated with some great heels and a jacket. Bonus, they are still just as comfy.

photo credit: afterDRK.com, devonrachel.com


A biker or a baseball jacket also make great additions to this simple look.

photo credits: walkinwonderland.com, thecourtneykerr.com, trini-g.com, thecourtneykerr.com


Sometimes simple is best. A graphic sweatshirt, a baseball shirt, a simple white button down, or even a Texas tuxedo all seem a little more special with the addition of a pair of heels.



You don't have to don sky high heels. Pick the height you like best and go for it. I gravitate more toward lower heels these days but any heel will do. I tend to prefer a simple, pointed toe pump but just Google "jeans and heels" and you'll find lots of additional inspiration.

DIY - Birthday Holiday Graphic Shirt

My love of graphic t-shirts is well known. I've even done a graphic t-shirt DIY once before (here). With the Holidays and my Birthday coming up, I knew I wanted to do something fun and festive. For me, nothing screams celebration more than champagne.

source: wsj.net

Then last weekend, I spotted this clutch at the Kate Spade outlet in Potomac Mills Mall. It was a sign. Perfect for a t-shirt.

 

I had a t-shirt just waiting for a DIY. I grabbed some stencils, paint, brushes, a Sharpie, a ruler, and some tape.

 

 

SUPPLIES

Rose Gold Paint - I used Martha Stewart Metallic (Copper)

Stencils - I used 2" letters

Sharpie - Copper

Angled paint brushes - I used a medium size (about 1/4" and a tiny 1/16")

Ruler

Tape

T-shirt

 

I started by measuring the shirt and marking the center and then each line with tape. Measuring is my least favorite part of this DIY. I took the lazy way out and used the tape width as a spacer. Once I was sure the first line was straight and centered, I used it as my guide for the other two. 

 

Then I placed the letters for the first word. Since I only had one of each letter (like the P and the Z), I had to move them as I marked off the letter outline. I left the openings where I would need to connect the blank spaces in the stencil and filled those in after I removed the stencil.

 

After I marked off all of the letters, I places a dollop of paint on a paper plate and began painting.

 

 

Because the paint I chose wasn't specifically made for fabric, I needed to apply it extra heavy. I couldn't find fabric paint in rose gold so I am rolling the dice and using glass paint. The bottle says that the paint needs to dry for 72 hours in order to be dishwasher safe. I hope this will also hold true for clothes washer safe. Keep your fingers crossed.

 

 

I repeated this process until I had filled in all of letters. My shirt is just waiting for this weekend. I think it's going to be part of my Birthday Brunch outfit.

 

 

What I Want - Fall 2014

For the last few seasons I've created a board on Pinterest and saved my must have items for the seasons. These are the items I really want and are on the top of my list. They will be the first items to get my fashion budget.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

Matte Wine Lipstick - I'm loving matte lips right now and as you know I'm a huge fan of the Maybelline Color Sensational line. They just came out with some of the colors in a matte finish and I love the wine shade, Divine Wine.

Tweed Moto Jacket - Moto jackets are so versatile. I have traditional leather options. This tweed version adds a polished twist to the tough moto silhouette.

Fun Graphic Tees - Graphic t-shirts with cool sayings and phrases are on my must have list. When I spied this t-shirt, I had to have it. A shirt that says, I EAT GLITTER FOR BREAKFAST is so me.

Pointed Toe Loafers - Heels are great but I constantly find myself gravitating toward my flats and low heel options. The pointed toes bring more sophistication to these loafers.

Leopard Clutch - Leopard is a fall trend but I've had an oversize statement clutch on my must list for several seasons and haven't found one that's perfect. This one from etsy is fantastic.

Faux Leather Midi - I've been hunting for a midi length leather or faux leather skirt for a while now. Short skater skirts are easy to find but those don't work for me. This length is perfect. It's on the top of my list.

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.

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.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Graphic Tees

It wasn't intentional but I guess there is a running theme this week.  It may have been my visit to the Rock n' Roll Hall of Fame but I can't get enough of graphic tees paired with all sorts of bottoms.  Of course you can wear them with your favorite jeans or shorts but I'm loving them with unexpected choices like pretty skirts or tuxedo jackets and printed pants. Lately I've been searching for lots of different graphic tees.  My jaw hit the floor when I was searching and I saw a tee for over $1500!  I don't care if it's a Lanvin t-shirt. $1500?! That's nuts.  There were lots that were in the $300 range.  How can anyone justify paying $300 and up for a t-shirt?  I couldn't even pay over $50 for a t-shirt.  That just doesn't work for my budget. There are so many fun options that are $35 and under.  Even $35 is pushing it for me because I know there are fun options that are under $20. For a t-shirt that you'll wear occasionally, $35 is my max.  Check out all of these fun tees!

Click the photos above for details.

If you're feeling creative, you can even make your own graphic tee with just three simple items. Your DIY shirt will be uniquely yours. Click here to follow my tutorial. 

Happy Friday Real Girls!

 

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Graphic Prints

Well my friends, this is the last installment of the Fall 2012 Runway Trends series.  Today we are taking a look at graphic prints. There are so many ways to wear prints, there is something for everyone.  There are supposed fashion rules about not wearing prints on body parts you don't like.  Well, you know I'm a rule breaker.  I'm definitely not a fan of my thighs and rear but my current favorite pair of pants, are these paisley print pants from Talbots Outlet.  I got them for a steal and I love them! Thanks to my friend Jennifer of Comme Coco for the photo!

Me at a CapFABB event, picture by Jennifer Jean-Pierre of Comme Coco

Outfit details:  vest - thrifted via Goodwill, shirt - Target (no longer available), pants - Talbots Outlet (no longer available), shoes - Neiman Marcus Last Call (available here on ebay), bag - vintage Coach (90's), necklace - c/o Stella & Dot (Alexandria necklace available here) 

I'm loving this trend. It's fun to add that cool print to your outfit.  Even if you don't want to wear pants or a skirt, try a top, bag or shoes.  There are lots of cute and colorful options out there.  Try something new. Be bold!

Click on the photo above for details.

I'm especially in love with this amazing trench coat.  A fantastic way to wear print, via the collar and hem.  The clutch would be a fun addition to your weekend wardrobe and a great choice if you just want to add a pop. If  you aren't sure what to try, pick one piece that you love and keep the rest of your outfit neutral.  That way you can ease into the trend and try it out.  If you are ready to mix patterns, give it a try, like I did above.  Try a stripe and a pattern or a small print with a large print.  If you aren't sure about the combo, try it on and take a photo. It's easier to be objective that way. 

I hope you've enjoyed this series.  More fun things to come this fall. I've been in a crazy DIY mode lately and I have lots of projects coming up soon.

What do you think?  Will you try to out graphic prints?

Inspiration - T-Shirts and Fancy Skirts

Lately, I've been loving the combo of a t-shirt and a fancy skirt.  I'm especially loving graphic tees with a fashion related or French saying.  Many of the blog popular shirts are crazy expensive.  Try $225 for one t-shirt!  I know, INSANE.  I created a board on Pinterest titled "Style I Should Try".  I pin photos there of outfits I love and want to emulate.  My love of this fancy casual outfit has made me want to expand my skirt and t-shirt wardrobe.  I've been looking for some great skirts and I just made a run to Old Navy for some new tees. These ladies are my inspiration.

Check out the links to these ladies by clicking the photo above. 

All of the ladies above have such great style. Their basic idea was the same, a t-shirt and a fancy skirt but they all have an amazingly different take on the concept.  Everything from the fantastic, over the top, feather skirt and cool graphic tee of Blair from Atlantic - Pacific to the sweet, flowy maxi and simple gray tee of Allie from Wardrobe Oxygen.  I love that each of them took the same basic idea and gave it her own twist. A couple weeks ago I went to a beauty event at Nordstrom and wore one of my favorite sparkly skirts and my vintage AC/DC t-shirt. I got lots of compliments and it was a chic but comfy outfit for a busy day. My sequin skirt is begging for the same treatment.

Old Navy is the best place for basics, like t-shirts.  They're inexpensive and the perfect canvas for a graphic t-shirt DIY.  My DIY is in the works.  I can't wait to show you the final results.

Over the weekend I visited one of my favorite stores for bargains, Talbots Outlet.  The entire store was $17.99 or less!  I got an amazing black and bronze, brocade skirt for only $17.99. I can't wait to pair it with my DIY t-shirt. 

What do you think of  pairing a fancy skirt and t-shirt?
 

Frugal Fashion Friday - Fall 2012 Trends Under $150

It's no good to look at the Fall 2012 Runway Trends if you can't make them work in your real life or your real budget. I picked one item from each of the categories that I think would be a great purchase. Almost all of the items are under $100!

White - A winter white pea coat is a classic staple that you will be able to wear for years to come.  It will work with different styles and outfits.

Plaid - The bleached style of this plaid shirt makes it more current.  I love the colors and the ombre look with the bleach. You can wear the trend without any hint of lumber jack.

Graphic Prints - The painterly print of this dress makes it fun. The style and cut of the dress makes it work for all body types.  I can see it with a motorcycle jacket and flats for a casual day or with heels and a blazer for work.

Military - An anorak military style jacket will take you everywhere.  I love it with jeans and a tee or with a flirty dress (like the graphic print dress).

Brocade & Embroidery - There are lots of brocade options this season but I love the idea of a brocade party dress.  These resemble items that were shown at Ralph Lauren and are much more expensive.

Menswear - A classic pinstripe pant can be worn lots of ways. The cut of these pants is ultra flattering and the navy is less expected that black.

Bordeaux - A classic pump is a great addition.  The bordeaux (oxblood or wine) color makes it on trend.  They would look great with almost every item I've selected.  If heels aren't your thing, go for a ballet or pointed toe flat.

Leather - A leather pencil skirt takes the rock n' roll of leather and makes it work for everyone.  If you add a blazer and a blouse, you could wear it to the office.  Throw on a concert t-shirt and some high heel booties and you'll be ready to go out.

There are so many affordable options available.  Look at the trend and figure out ways to make it suit you. If you want to try out the trend, look for an inexpensive piece and try it out.  You could also hit up your local thrift store or clothing swap.   You can make a trend fit your personal style.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

DIY - Rock Graphic Tee

There are lots of great rock tees available but I'm always looking for the ones that speak to me personally. What if you could take your favorite lyric and turn it into a one of a kind shirt?  All you need are just four simple supplies and a song lyric you love.

Just a few simple supplies were needed.

SUPPLIES
t-shirt.                      $7
spray paint               $4 already owned (from my neon jewelry DIY)
stick on letters          $3 already owned       .
newspaper               ______________
                                $7 (not counting the items I already owned)            

I chose a few lines from a song I love and one I could turn into a great design. The line is from "Crash Into Me" by Dave Matthews Band. "Sweet like candy to my soul. Sweet you rock and Sweet you roll.". Because sweet comes before each line I could create a design with that single word.

I stretched the shirt over the newspaper. Then applied the stick on letters. I didn't worry about them being straight and even. Imperfection would add to the cool rock vibe. 

Then I sprayed the paint across the letters in a swash. I wanted it to look accidental.

I let the paint dry completely. Then I removed the letters. The best part of this DIY is that it is completely customizable. Choose any song lyric, t-shirt, color of spray paint, and letter style to make it your own.

Evening Wear For Day - The Versatile Tuxedo Jacket

Even though Sex and the City aired it's final episode years ago, the fashion of the series still resonates with me. The stylists, including Patricia Field gave us so many great looks to desire and emulate.  Carrie's quirky fashion at times was a head scratcher but other times I wanted everything she was wearing.  One of the looks that I loved then and still love today is a Mickey Mouse t-shirt, white tuxedo jacket and black pants.  It was such a cool casual look and seemed so chic but also effortless.

Ever since I have been searching for a white tuxedo jacket.  I prefer the style with black lapels as opposed to all white but either would be great. I have a black tuxedo jacket (seen here) that I love and wear often.  I've had friends and readers tell me that they can't justify purchasing a tuxedo jacket because they don't have the social life where they would wear one.  When I tell them that they can wear it during the day too, with a casual outfit, they are surprised.  Just take a look at these celebrities and how they wear their tuxedo jackets during the day.

. 
Michelle Williams wears hers with a Breton striped top and blue skinny jeans.  Anne Hathaway wears a graphic tee and wide legged pants.  Jeans and a mandarin color blouse are Kate Bosworth's choices.  All of them took this polished evening jacket and dressed it down with their own version of casual.  The jacket makes their daytime basics look more polished.

I just found a great white tuxedo jacket at SimplyBe.  My February fashion budget is going to this great piece.  At $98 it's more than I'd like to spend but judging from the wear I get out of my black tuxedo jacket, I know this one will be worth the money over time.

Tuxedo Jacket by realgirlrunway featuring low pants

Lauren Conrad tuxedo jacket, $49
Charlotte Russe shiny jacket, $40
Tux jacket, $28
Victoria's Secret low pants, $70
"Bespoke" Bespoke Editors Pick Tuxedo Jacket at Simply Be, $98

If white isn't your style, try a bright color.  This hot pink version might be just the ticket. You could also go for classic black. Dress it down for day and you'll have a versatile piece in your wardrobe. It can also be a go to item for holiday parties or a night out.

tuxedo jacket

Swap Sunday - My Haul

On Sunday I attended the Frugal Fashionista Clothing Swap. The exciting part of a swap is that you never know what you might find. I went to the swap hoping for a skirt. I found one I really liked but it was cut way too short for my taste and my legs. Instead I found some other fantastic pieces. I scored two sweaters, two tops and a dress! 

Orange Eyelet Sweater - Lane Bryant

Fuchsia Cropped Cardigan - Torrid

Graphic Tee - PePe

Multi Striped Shell - Mossimo for Target

Khaki Shirt Dress (new with tags) - Speed Contronl NY

I didn't find a skirt but the shirt dress has a full skirt and I'll be able to wear it spring through fall. The shape is perfect for me. I'll get lots of wear out of the sweaters and tops. I can even wear the two sweaters with the two tops. It was a great afternoon of free shopping. I got rid of some unwanted items and got some fun new items (well new to me).