DIY - Blah to Bad Ass Blazer

I've had this idea in my head for some time to add elbow patches to a thrift store blazer. Specifically, skull elbow patches. I spotted a few sweaters last winter with skulls at the elbows. I went searching for a blazer with skull elbow patches and couldn't find one. This DIY has taken so long because I couldn't find skull patches that I thought were perfect. Then I found these beauties. I'm not a fan of the cutesy skull. I want a realistic looking, bad ass skull. The patch was perfect and of course I ordered two. Then I set out to find the blazer. It had to be either black or gray, in a heavy fabric. I wanted wool but I would have accepted other options. The thrift store gods smiled down on me. I found it, a classic gray wool blazer, by a brand I love! I scored it at the Goodwill Store close to me. Here is the blazer, before.

The gold buttons just wouldn't work with the gray, silver black color scheme. I pictured a blazer looked sedate school girl from the front and girl who skips school from the back. I looked online and briefly considered skull buttons but I didn't want it to look like a costume. Only a crest button in silver would work for what I had in mind. I found several at my local sewing store but ending up splurging on the most expensive option. They were perfect. Since I'd only spent $5 on my blazer and $12 on my patches,  I could afford a little button splurge. Plus I found two coupons and ended up cutting my button cost down by about 40%! Yay for coupons!

I started by removing all of the buttons and finding thread that would work. I chose dark gray thread that I already own. You just need thread that is close to the color of the blazer. The patches were iron on. I also made sure I had thread for stitching on the patches. Elbow patches get wear and tear and must bend a bit. I thought the adhesive might not stay tight. After attaching all of the buttons, I ironed on the elbow patches. I decided after my first wear to stitch around the edges. The patches had already started to lift a bit after only one day. A few stitches helped me feel confident that they would wear well, long term.

It turned out even better than I had hoped it would. It's exactly what I pictured. Business in the front and Bad Ass in the back!

My 2014 Birthday Wishes

It's Cyber Monday and lots of my fellow bloggers have published great lists of deals for Cyber Monday. Instead of repeating their wonderful efforts, just go to the list on the CapFABB site and click around. On Sunday I will be celebrating my birthday. I'm looking forward to some fun over the weekend and I'm taking a personal day next Monday, to play with {msL}. This year there were really only two things on my list, a vintage Chanel brooch and to hit a weight loss goal I've been striving for. The brooch is a big (expensive) wish and the weight loss goal is all on me. I've been working on that weight loss gift to myself. And I selected some reasonably priced gifts, in lieu of Chanel.

Stella and Dot Rose Gold Renegade Bracelet - I wear my silver Renegade bracelet constantly and have been eyeing this rose gold version for ages.

Pink Faux Fur Scarf (Asos) - This winter is supposed to be super cold. If I have to bundle up, I might as well do it in style.

Skull Clutch - The imprinted skulls, leather and oversize profile of this clutch are perfect.

Vintage Chanel Brooch - There are a few that I love but this quilted version is classic.

Stella and Dot Casablanca Pendant - This beauty can be worn four different ways. I love a versatile piece and I'm dying to layer it with my Stella and Dot Pegasus necklace.

posted to Instagram by Blythe (COO of Stella and Dot)

Zara Bulcher with Fringes - My brogues and oxford are regular rotation. I love these with the pointed toe and fringe.

I'm all about the accessories this year. They always fit, no matter your size and they are the best topping for an outfit.

If you're looking for some great accessories, try out Jamberry. My Black Friday fun is continuing through today. If you buy three sheets, you get one free (that's eight manis and four pedis)!

Also check out the great deals on Stella and Dot. There is lots of beautiful jewelry on sale and if you spend $50 you can get a fantastic clutch for only $9.95 (regularly $49).

Halloween Fun 2014

One of my favorite holidays has now come and gone. Our annual Halloween party was a blast. We finally decided on our costumes (thank goodness) and I love how they turned out. Our friends had a fun, which is really all I care about. There was great food, good drinks and all around craziness. I was so busy having fun that I didn't get photos of all of our guests. I think next year I'm going to set up a little photo booth to make sure I get shots of everyone. Now on to the fun.

I created this skull cake for my friend Kris' birthday, which happened to fall on the day of the party.

A spooky cocktail was in order. I found this vampire blood cocktail idea on Pinterest and modified it to my taste a bit. The original idea and recipe came from The Self Proclaimed Foodie. It turned out great and everyone loved it.

I attempted to create another Pinterest find, mini caramel apples. As you can see in the photo, they were a huge fail. When I first created them they looked great. After about an hour, they looked like this. The juice from the apples caused the caramel to slide off and created this watery, mushy mess. These ended up in the trash.

We ended up dressing as the Mad Hatter and Alice (a punk rock version). I think {msL's} costume and make-up turned out great! I decided on a rocker version of Alice, complete with a paint splatered dress, ripped hi-low tutu, floral Doc Martens, and tattoos. I already owned the dress and until last week it was destined for the trash. It has some stains and I hadn't been able to remove them. Instead I took Sharpies in shades of blue and created a paint splatter effect.

The Mad Hatter and our friend Kevin, the Prince.

Gaby and Mia look great as the women of Sons of Anarchy. No biker chick costume would be complete without attitude!

Kris (the birthday girl) and Lauren (her girlfriend), look amazing as Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. Kris did that make-up herself (including Lauren's scarred cheek). Kris is a scary and impressive Bid Bad and Lauren is a beautiful Red. Incredible!

It was such a great time. I'm a bit sad that I didn't get more photos. There were so many good costumes. I also missed getting a photo of our newest outdoor decoration, a posable skeleton (like this one). I hope you all had as much fun at your Halloween gatherings as I did.

Don't forget to come out and see me next Saturday at the Shopaholics Suite in Silver Spring, Maryland (DETAILS and TICKETS HERE). It's going to be a fab afternoon of fashion and bargains. I hope you'll be there.

photo credits: @peacfulsafira, @_gabillionairee, @daisybee45

Inspiration - Fall Denim Styling

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

 

Cape and Denim

Denim and Fur (I prefer faux.)

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

Denim and Leopard

Denim and a Wrap Coat



 

A few more for inspiration...

Denim, Booties, and a Skull

Denim and Tweed

Wishful Shopping - Casual Spring Chic

The weather is getting warmer. This week the DC area is supposed to hit 90. A little hotter than I'd like for spring but I'm still happy for warm weather. Spring has made me start packing away my winter duds and thinking about fun summer purchases. I did a little wishful shopping over the weekend and picked out a few items that I'd love to own.

Click on the photos above for buying information.

 

I've been in love with these copper flash Ray-Ban aviators since I first saw them. I love Ray-Bans and especially love the classic styles like the aviators. These are a fun new twist but still classic. This top totally my style, flowy, deep color and an embroidered skull. I own a pair of straight leg white jeans but I've been dying for a skinny pair. The rose gold Renegade bracelet has been on my wish list for some time. I'd pair it with the Tribute bracelet that I have already. My black and leopard slip-ons have both been getting tons of wear. This silver pair would be a great addition. A pink suede bag would round out this look and still be versatile. A fun but casual outfit for spring.

One Dress Three Ways - ModCloth Rainy Day Rendezvous Dress

There are a few absolutes in my fashion world. I love companies that sell the same item in many sizes (XS - 3X). I love good quality for a good price and I love pieces that can be worn many ways. This dress from ModCloth, fits that bill. It comes in sizes, XS - 4X! Bonus that the shape will be flattering on all body types. At $114.99, a dress that you can wear many ways and many seasons has a great price per wear. Did I mention that it's machine washable!? Yay for no dry cleaning! I'd wear this dress on the weekends, for a date night and to work. It could go anywhere. Just change up your extras and accessories and your set.

Changing up the mood of this dress is all about what you add to it. It's such a pretty beginning and would be beautiful on it's own. Unfortunately, right now we are in the throws of winter and I'm thinking cold weather and knew I had to layer. Later this spring and summer, I picture this dress with some strappy sandals.

 

For the weekend I'd make the dress more casual by adding a great leather jacket, some flat loafers and a cross body bad that would be great for errands and shopping. Then I'd add a watch and funky skull bracelet, just to couteract the feminine flowers and some fun earrings.

For date night or a night out with friends, you could add a pretty lace jacket, a fancy clutch, statement making jewelry and pretty blue heels. Play up the feminine qualities of the dress. I'm loving that this clutch mimics the flowers on the dress.

For work you can make this pretty dress professional by adding a cardigan. I decided to layer it under the dress instead of over. A versatile bag will let you go from work day to happy hour. These navy wedges are pretty but comfortable and classic jewelry adds a sophisticated but professional touch.

ModCloth has so many fantastic dresses, in lots of styles and sizes, including plus sizes. There is something for everyone.




NOTE: The opinions expressed here are my own. I've been a huge ModCloth fan for a long time. This post is part of ModCloth's Uniquely You campaign. I was not provided compensation for this post but it is part of a contest.

Inspiration - Halloween Decorating and Party Ideas

For years now, {msL} and I have thought about hosting a Halloween party. It never seemed to work out, due to schedules or other obligations. This year we have worked things out early and we'll be hosting a small evening. I've already started thinking about my costume but I want to have some great decorations. A spooky, Gothic, Victorian vibe will be the aesthetic.

 

While shopping at Target the other day, I found bleeding skull candles. They will be the perfect compliment to candelabras and candle holders. I'm planning to repaint some of the candle holders I've used in my holiday decor from years past. I have black glitter skulls that I used in decor last year and cake stands from our wedding that can be used for decor and to display food. I love the idea of using cleavers and large knives to accent and cut food. I could create some vintage looking labels for bottles. I'll also be checking local thrift stores for bird cages.

I think with some planning, I will be able to reuse or upcycle many items for the decor. I'll use candles and simple items like apples for impact.

Do you decorate for Halloween?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Making the Most of Seasonal Sales

The stores are full of sales right now. They are clearing out their spring and summer items to make room for fall and winter. It's the perfect time to grab items that you can wear now but also transition to fall. Two of my favorite stores for sales and items are Talbots and Nordstrom.  They both carry clothing in all size ranges and items that appeal to all styles and ages. I could have filled pages and pages with items I'd love to own but here are just a few of my favorites.

 

I've been in love with these House of Harlow 1961 Chelsea sunglasses for ages. It's rare to find them on sale. Nordstrom just posted this color for $91. This flowy blouse is light enough for a summer evening but edgy with the added faux leather collar and cuffs. Wear it now with some shorts or later with pants. I had to throw in this awesome skull wrap bracelet. I love them, no matter the season. I rarely wear shorts, except for cut offs at the beach. I would consider wearing these longer Bermuda shorts and they'd even look cute when the weather begins to cool, with a blazer. Converse are seasonless and this edgier version with studs is great. I've been looking for a neutral tote. This Michael Kors design is sophisticated and versatile. Full skirts are flattering on all body types. I would wear this one with a graphic tee now and with a pretty sweater later. These printed pants will transition well from summer to fall. Just change up the topper and your shoes. You can also dress them up or down. There are so many ways to transition items from summer to fall. With just a change in the pieces you pair the item with, you can take it from warm weather to cool weather.

If you order, make sure to save even more by using a site like ebates.com. Ebates will pay you a cash % for each of your purchases. Just go to ebates before you shop, create an account and a select that retailer.  Also, search for free shipping or discount codes for your shopping by goggling the store name and discount code or free shipping.

Have you been eyeing any fun items during all of the sales?

Beach Scenes 2013

This week is our annual family beach trip. I'm focusing on family and fun this week. Blogging has taken a backseat but I thought I would share some photos with you that I've snapped of our fun.

Our first evening here we took the kids down to the beach to play a but before bed.

A late night wicked storm rolled in and washed us out.

This morning the kids got to play in the huge puddles created by the storm.

I always bring craft projects for the week. It's my relaxation time. This week I created two new cell phone cases.

There will be other DIY projects coming this week.

This quartz skull pendant is my best vacation purchase so far. I can't wait to add it to my favorite silver chain and rock it with a concert t-shirt.

We all take turns cooking. Tonight is my nephew Tommy's turn. The best part is that I get to drink wine (or vodka) and watch someone else cook.

There will be more vacation fun soon. Have a great day and night Real Girls!

Insta Monday

The last few weeks have been a blur and I have to admit, it won't be slowing down anytime soon. I'm going to push myself to make time for blogging this week. Between work, other obligations and wedding planning I'm a bit overwhelmed. I've been trying to tweet and post on Facebook and Instagram.  I haven't be great at those either but we are just a little than a month away from the wedding.  Life and blogging will be back on track soon. Well, in about 6 weeks.  It may get worse before it gets better. Since my phone has been my constant companion, I have managed to take pictures lately.

My favorite new piece of jewelry. 

 For Christmas, my Mom gave me a monogram ring. I've been wanted one like this for years and this style is very hard to find.  Signet styles abound but this cut out version is elusive.  I'm just noticing in this blown up version, how dry my winter hands look.  I need exfoliation desperately. 

Love my new floral pants that match my red suede pumps from Talbots!

 Another item I've been searching for is a great pair of floral pants. In fact, these pants to be exact.  I thought I would never find them but this is the very reason I'm in love with true outlet stores.  I first spied these on friend and fellow blogger Allison of Wardrobe Oxygen (here and here). As you can see she bought her pants last spring.  I was sure I'd never find them, since they were sold out online, in my size.  Well, floral pants are still going strong and I found them at the Talbots outlet last weekend!

First try at a bouquet for our Women of Honor.

 You knew I'd throw in some kind of wedding thing.  All of the last minute things really are dominating my thoughts lately.  I spied a Christmas ball wedding bouquet on Facebook a while back and loved the idea.  This was my first try. I will be making some changes but I like the look enough to know we are going with this type of design.

A fun new 3D gift from Klout and Geico.

 When you are blogging you get all sorts of fun gifts.  This one came in the mail a couple weeks ago. It was a gift through Klout from Geico (of all places).  I love this cool, 3D stand up of my twitter handle and blog name.  It's going in my office in a place of honor.

Screaming Skull necklace from JewelMint.

 In order to reduce my monthly spending, I've cancelled all of my "subscriptions".  I won't be getting monthly goodies from JewelMint any longer.  This cool skull necklace (Screaming Skull Necklace) was my final purchase.  It's a fun addition to my jewelry and it's the right size to wear on any occasion.  Not too big, not too small.
 

After wedding makeover project - thrifted bedside tables.

I've been hunting for new bedside tables for months now.  I say new but I've been checking the furniture section of every thrift store I've walked into, over the last six months.  Our current bedside tables are from IKEA.  I love IKEA but I've had them forever (about 12 years).  They've seen better days and we needed a change.  Thrift stores can yield high quality furniture just begging for a makeover.  This weekend, while looking for more glasses for our wedding table decor, {msL} and I found these bedside tables.  The tops are scratched and the drawers were dusty inside, like they'd been stored for a long time.  At closer inspection I realized they were solid wood, no press board, with dovetailed drawers (a sign of good quality).  They weren't cheap, at $25 each, but they were a bargain for solid wood bedside tables that had everything we wanted (drawers and a book shelf).  I found them at Goodwill in Alexandria, my favorite local Goodwill. The store was even running a deal. If you spent $50 or more, they'd give you a coupon good for 50% your purchase over the next week.  Score!  I haven't decided how to make them over yet, but I definitely won't get to them until after April 13.

 I hope your shopping, fashion and thrifting is going well.  Happy Monday! 

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.

Moment of Lust - Alexander McQueen Union Jack Skull Clutch

My skull obsession continues.  I love this clutch from Alexander McQueen.  It's both quintessential McQueen and British. The colors are great and the skull adds something special. The McQueen version costs $1545!  Definitely not doable.  We could take a big chunk out of our wedding catering budget with that money. So of course I went in search of a less expensive alternative.

I found the solution by doing a bit of searching.  One of the retailers on Amazon.com is selling a clutch that is almost identical for only $50!  That's a savings of $1495.  Well not really a savings seeing that I would either find a budget friendly alternative or I'd go without.

I'm thrilled!

Instagram Monday with lots of DIY

I'm finally feeling better and over the weekend I did a few projects.  I did more sleeping and resting than anything so my plan to write a few blog posts didn't happen.  I thought I'd share a few of my photos from the past week or so.  I took these via Instagram.  It's easy to tell that I love the Instagram app.  If you're on Instagram, make sure to follow me (@realgirlrunway).  If you're not on Instagram, you can check out my latest pictures on Followgram or on the widget that's on the left side of my blog.

 

 

From top to bottom...

• Pretty DIY decorations from my cousin's recent outdoor wedding. It was a beautiful ceremony and a wonderful time with my family.

• My sweet puppy Anita. She is a very active dog, so when she stops for a moment and looks so zen, I have to capture it.

• A beautiful lace options for my wedding dress.  It's crazy that fabric is so expensive. This lace costs $129 per yard!

• My DIY version of the popular Creme de la Creme sweatshirt.  My version only cost about $10 instead of $160. This DIY will contribute to my latest inspiration and obsession.

• Glitter skull DIY for our Halloween table decor. Made using plastic skulls from an after Halloween sale (last year) and left over glitter spray from this DIY.

• Chandelier for our wedding decor. I wanted a black chandelier to hang over the dance floor.  Thousands for a black crystal chandelier wasn't practical or in the budget.  I'm making my own using a brass chandelier I bough via craig's list.  This is step one, painting.  Bling will come next.

Hope you are all having a great Monday.  I'll get back to regular posting this week.

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Skulls

The punk, rock n' roll vibe has always been something I've loved.  Lately, I'm more obsessed with skulls than ever.  I can't help it. They are fun and creepy all at the same time. You can incorporate them in unexpected ways without looking like you are going to a Misfits show.  I wear my skull ring and bracelet to work with my pencils skirts and blazers.  I know that wouldn't work in every office but honestly, most people don't notice and I love wearing them.

There are lots of budget options but I had to throw in some Alexander McQueen shoes and my favorite Wendy Brandes ring.  Click on the pictures above to get all of the details. I'm in love with the Butler & Wilson clutch.  They have an amazing collection of crystal skull pieces.  There was no way to include them all. The DIY skull cut out t-shirt is on my to do list.  Such an easy way to wear a skull.  I'm sure people will do lots of double takes.

What's your latest obsession?

Inspiration - Silver Accents

My love for all things silver is pretty obvious.  I've done many posts with silver jewelry.  I always gravitate toward silver over gold. I just love the way it sparkles.  Here are just a few of my silver loves and inspirations.

Thrifted Watch Band Turned Bracelet

DIY Upcycled Tray, Spray Painted Silver

My Stella & Dot Alexandria Necklace

DIY Silver Skull

ASOS Paris Metallic Pointed Heels only $20.44!

Coolest DIY Silver Leaf lampshade from Design Sponge

DIY Silver Leaf Chest from Little Green Notebook

ASOS Spike Stretch Bracelet

My thrifted tray and after Halloween sale, skull became great home accents.  A thrifted watch band has become one of my favorite bracelets. I'm in love with my Stella & Dot Alexandria necklace (c/o). It's in regular rotation and I get compliments every time I wear it. A pair of silver pumps are on my list and these are on sale for only $20.44 at ASOS!  I love simple DIY projects and this black and silver shade just that. Some silver leaf will transform a blah black shade. There is a brown buffet sitting in our dining that I bought via work list serve many years ago.  I've been debating about what to do with it and couldn't decide. Then I spied this silver leaf DIY on Pinterest and I knew I'd found the solution. DIY here I come! I can't resist a spiked bracelet. The gunmetal version is one of my favorites and I definitely need to snatch up the silver one too.

What's your favorite accent color?