Frugal Fashion Friday - Quick Fixes and Garment Care

My clothes and accessories span the entire spectrum of price and quality.  I believe in a bargain but many times I opt for quality at a good price, since I know it will outlast a similar item that is less expensive.  My parents raised me to take care of the things I own and to make them last.  I wouldn’t consider myself a seamstress but I can make repairs, sew on a button, and fix minor clothing issues.  These time and money saving fixes can extend the life of your garments and save you a trip to a tailor.

Good tools are key to making these repairs.  I’ve made a list of the items I can’t do without. I have a repair box that I keep to make sure I have what I need on hand in case I need to fix something.  A button or hook always falls off when you are getting dressed and need to leave the house.  You won’t have time to run out and buy what you need but a few minutes with a needle and thread will keep you from wearing a safety pin all night.

My go to kit includes:

Thread and needles - You can purchase a ready made sewing kit at Target or Wal-Mart (even a drug store) or you can select a few rolls of thread in generic colors, like white, cream, black, blue, and brown from your local sewing store.  Dual purpose thread will do.  You can purchase a small pack of assorted needles for a few dollars.

Buttons (organized) – When I purchase a garment with extra buttons (if they aren’t sewn in) I place it in a button box I created.  If I remember, I write a quick description on the packet so I can match them later.  Of course I also have a ton of buttons from clothes long gone that are just extras.

Hooks and Findings – You can purchase a small packet of assorted hooks and snaps at any sewing store.  These come in handy if you lose a hook or snap and need an extra. Most times these are hidden closures. Matching the style isn’t crucial.

Scissors (large and small) – I’ve found that owning small embroidery scissors as well as larger scissors is helpful.  It’s so much easier to snip a thread or a remove a button with small scissors.  You can get them into places the larger versions won’t go.  A large pair is great for creating a pair of cut offs or a DIY project.

Shoe Goo – Nothing makes me crazier than seeing a pair of shoes that is falling apart, especially a sole that is coming off.  It’s an easy fix, with some Shoe Goo.  I’m sure you could use any glue but Shoe Goo is great because it stays flexible and dries clear.  It was made for sneakers but I’ve used it on sandals and the rubber soles of flats.

I know that these fixes can be intimidating to some of you.  Luckily for me I had a mom who taught me how to do these repairs.  I’m here to tell you that minor repairs can be done by anyone, no matter your skill level.  Of course you can always take your items to a tailor or a shoe repair shop and in some cases that is the best option.  However, spending $10 to have buttons sewn on a garment isn't necessary if you know how to do these quick fixes. 

I found some great videos online that might help you if you need a little guidance. 

Fixing a button is quick, once you know the tricks. You can also completely change the look of a blouse or sweater by changing the buttons. It's an amazingly easy DIY.

How to Sew On A Button  by ThreadBanger

 

There have been many times that I've caught my heel in the hem of a pair of pants or a skirt.  This video shows you how to fix it easily.

How to Hand Hem (Skirt or Pants) by Expert Village

HAPPY FRIDAY REAL GIRLS!

Fix It or Forget It!!

Yesterday, while walking around during and after work I saw a total of four women with broken or missing heel taps on their stilettos. For those of you who don't know, a heel tap is that little piece of rubber at the end of your heel that protects the shoe from wear and tear. When it's missing there is usually a little piece of metal sticking out and it makes a distinct clicking sound when you walk.

After watching girl number four almost bite it in the marble lobby of my office building, I knew I had to speak up. For goodness sake girls, FIX YOUR SHOES! This practice is not only dangerous, it's unsightly and you are ruining your shoes because you are too lazy to get them repaired.

A broken heel tap usually looks like this:



It's a very simple and inexpensive repair at your local shoe shop. If you like your shoes, then please spend the time and money to repair them. If your shoes aren't worth spending approximately $20 for the repair, you can attempt to do the job yourself. FabSugar, one of my favorite blogs, posted a great do it yourself piece about this very topic a few months ago. Check out "Fix It: Broken Heels!"

Now ladies, if both of these choices, sound too expensive, time consuming, or difficult, then your shoes aren't that important to you. Get rid of them and go shopping for a new pair. But please, don't walk in front of me. I don't want to have to pick you up off of the floor.

Fashion and Style Quote of the Day (#10)

“You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. Too many women think that they are unimportant, but the real proof of an elegant woman is what is on her feet.”
—Christian Dior

 Oh shoes... I love them so.  My shoe obsession has been well documented here on RGR.  I purchase shoes in all price ranges but I firmly believe that shoes should be in good repair.  They need to look well cared for and not worn down.  Once they get to the worn point, they either need to be repaired or retired.  It's hard to let go of a favorite pair but if they don't look good it's time to let them go. Great shoes can be found in all price points. My biggest pet peeve is that some people think that basic rubber flip flops go with everything.  It takes just as much effort to slip on a flip flop as it does to slip on a pair of cute flats.  Don't get me wrong, I love flip flops at the beach in the summer time.  But there are some places that flip flops just aren't appropriate.  Like at the White House. 

There are too may great shoes and too many would love to have.  It was hard to narrow it down but here are a few of my favorites this season, from inexpensive to outrageous.

Kenneth Cole Reaction Pace First $69.99

Carlos by Carlos Santana Driskal Black Studded Bootie $99.95

Zara Pointed Court Shoe with Studs $49.90

J. Crew Viv Metallic Flats $188

Christian Louboutin Croisette Leopard Calf Fur Flat $795

Valentino Rockstud Strass Studded Slingback $1295

Frugal Fashion Friday - DIY: Cap Toe Flats

I just knew my obsession with cap toe shoes would lead to a DIY or maybe two. Sitting in my closet and on their last heel tap were a pair of gun metal flats. They were destined for the trash but I decided to try a little DIY love and give them a second life. Some spray paint would do the trick.

I started by collecting supplies.

SUPPLIES

Shoes
Pink Neon Spray Paint
Clear Glaze
Tape
Alcohol and cotton pads

I measured the toes of the shoes and taped them off. Then I taped off the soles in the front and the full shoe to avoid any paint spatter.

I cleaned the toe areas with alcohol. I used plain rubbing alcohol and allowed them to dry. This isn't mandatory but I think it helps the paint adhere better.

Then I sprayed multiple thin coats on the shoes until I achieved the color I wanted. I allowed the shoes to dry completely between each coat.

Then I gave each shoe a single coat of Krylon Clear Glaze. This protects the shoes and gives the toe a shiny finish.

I'm happy with the results. A Goodwill trip is on tap for this weekend. I'm sure there is another pair coming soon.

Happy Holiday Weekend
Real Girls!

 

My Saving Grace - Thrifting and Remixing

A few days ago, I let you in on my dirty little shoe secret.  I really love to shop. Well, that should be, "I REALLY REALLY LOVE TO SHOP!"  My sister says that the word sale for me is like a call to arms. I think it's the thrill of the hunt that I enjoy.  The joys of Internet shopping didn't help me either.  I can't tell you how many clothes and shoes I've bought because at the time, I thought they were cute or liked them but in hind sight I wondered what I was thinking or drinking.  A few years ago, due to a break-up I found myself paying a large mortgage all alone. I put myself on a strict budget. For a year I didn't very little shopping.  It was hard but necessary. It also helped me to take a long hard look at my wardrobe and spending.

I've always loved searching a thrift store and the challenge of finding new ways to wear my clothes.  It's fun.  I started thrift store shopping in my early 20's when I had very little money and that mostly went to concerts and bars. I loved searching for those gems at a thrift or resale store.  I'm always shocked at what other people decide to donate or sell. I'm sure the same has been said about me. There were a few years where I didn't do much thrift shopping. I missed it, so I'm back to thrifting on a regular basis.

One of my other loves is activism.  Working with women who are restarting their lives after domestic violence was a real eye opener. It also caused me to rethink my life. I'm truly fortunate. The women I met had to start their lives over from scratch. Many left with only the clothes on their backs or just a suitcase. Volunteering my time as well as donating clothing and accessories to these organizations was a great way to give back. At least in this instance my poor shopping judgement turned into something positive.

Faced with those realities, thrifting combined with remixing is now the core of my wardrobe.

One Skirt Three Ways

This skirt was a thrift store find.  It was one of the items I picked when I did 30 for 30.  It's a great neutral color that goes with black, gray or blue. It's a little swingy and it's wash a wear. In every outfit above I'm wearing more than one item that was a thrift store or swap find.

Left to Right:

Outfit #1;  Blazer (men's from Goodwill), Skirt (Goodwill)

Outfit #2:  Boots (Finder's Keepers resale shop), Skirt (Goodwill)

Outfit #3:  Sweater Jacket (Frugal Fashionista Clothing Swap), Skirt (Goodwill)

Thrifting and remixing have helped me to curb my spending and be less wasteful.  It's also helped me to develop a wardrobe of treasured finds. Here are a few more of my favorite thrift store finds. These are a perfect example that if you do a little hunting you can find some amazing pieces. It's not all bad holiday sweaters and polyester suits.

Clockwise from top left:  Coach Handbag - Goodwill NYC, Cole Haan Elly wedges - Goodwill Falls Church,
Start Bracelet - Salvation Army Manassas, Whiting and Davis Handbag - Goodwill NYC

Are you a thrifter or a remixer?  I'd love to hear your stories.  Email me at: realgirlrunway@live.com, leave a comment or send a tweet @realgirlrunway.

Hunting and Gathering

I'm a HUGE fan of the upscale discount store. Fortunately, I live close to Potomac Mills. It's a so called outlet mall. In most cases I truly doubt that many of the stores are true outlets. Outlet shopping has become such big business many brands are creating lines for their outlet stores that have their label but have a lower quality. The exception to this is the department store outlet. My three favorites are, Nordstrom Rack, Saks Off 5th and Neiman Marcus Last Call.

These stores supply shoppers with overstocks and last season merchandise at great prices. Nordstrom Rack has a fantastic shoe selection, just like their stores. My closet is a testament to this. Saks Off 5th has clothes in all sizes and a great purse selection. Neiman Marcus Last Call is on the higher end of the price range but if you are looking for high end, their prices can't be beat. On a recent trip, I found Manolo Blahniks, originally $500 - $750 for $200 - $325. They also have a great bag and sunglasses collection as well as many designer buys. Saks Off 5th and Neiman Marcus Last Call offer additional discounts and coupons if you sign up through their websites.

I'm touting these stores because I just had a fantastic trip to Nordstrom Rack. I had been coveting a pair of Michael Kors McGraw slingback wedges. They were listed for $129.00.



At the time they were a bit high for me so I decided to wait. Then I saw them on sale. I was thrilled but unfortunately, they didn't have my size. I went hunting and of course, I couldn't find them anywhere. Yesterday I decided to do a little retail therapy. I went to Nordtrom Rack. Searching through the racks and the shelves for a great deal is a zen like experience for me. I was just about to leave empty handed when, on the bottom shelf I spied the Michael Kors wedges! They were camel suede but I didn't care. I looked at the price and I was even more thrilled. They were $36 with an additional 35% off! I searched the rack a little more and found another pair in black and cream snake skin with a black patent platform! I left the store with two pairs of the coveted Michael Kors wedges, for less than 1/2 of the original price.

If you'd like to indulge in some great bargains, all three stores have searches on their sites. Check to see if there is a store near you. If there isn't, maybe you could plan a trip to the DC area and hit Potomac Mills on your next vacation.

Search for Nordstrom Rack, click here.

Search for Saks Off 5th, click here.

and

Neiman Marcus Last Call, click here.

Happy Shopping!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Thrifting Treasures

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



photo credit:  Atlantic-Pacific





photo credit: Stylish Distractions

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

Happy Thrifting Real Girls!

Inspiration - Celebrity Music Festival Style

Our first music festival of the spring/summer is in two weeks. We're going to the Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival and I can't wait. Having been to lots of festivals in my life, I always consider my outfit before I go.  It's partially the fashion girl in me but partially, the practical girl.  I want to look great all day but I also want to be comfortable.  I don't wear shorts except the occasional pair of long cut offs so I usually lean toward a dress.  I learned the hard way that sandals aren't the best choice for a festival. I usually go for boots or some kind of lace up shoe. Lots of celebs attend Coachella, a huge festival in the LA area. They get all of the celeb perks which means they don't have to worry about being huddled with the masses or using a port a potty.  But some of them actually wear outfits that don't scream VIP.

I used some of them as inspiration for my outfit plans.

Click above for buying information

NEW FEATURE! Moment of Lust

This is the beginning of a new quick feature that I'm titling, Moment of Lust. I'll profile an item I love. I will also profile a less expensive option.

My Moment of Lust today focuses on the bootie. I know, I know, I've already done a bootie post. I saw these booties today and fell in love. Maybe it's the cold weather that is spurring this obsession, maybe it's all of the fashionable women I've seen lately wearing them.

Cole Haan Stella Air Bootie



They are on sale on one of my favorite shoe sites, zappos.com for $355.46. The trim and the artistic heel inpired my lust and the Nike Air technology sealed the deal.

Sofft, also known for their comfy heels, makes a pair that is close to the Cole Haan booties. The Soft Gala Bootie has some artistic touches as well, including the contrasting trim and the subtle bow at the heel.



I would have preferred that the upper sit just below my ankle bone but at the sale price of $80.00 (40% off) at shoes.com, the price can't be beat.

Best of Blog World - Picks of the Week (June 15 - 21)

My friends, as you know my paying job has been taking much of my time lately. Work has been very busy. In addition, I haven't been feeling well.  Unfortunately that means I haven't been posting much or writing much in the last week. I thought I'd share some of my favorite posts, from some of my fave bloggers this week. I'm trying to get back in the saddle with some personal style posts and my own writing. Thanks for hanging in there.

• An amazing job at organizing a small closet from ...love Maegan. I plan to use Maegan's ideas in reorganizing my own closet. I have a nook in the side of my closet calling for shoe shelves.

• Instructions on creating my own DIY bleached jeans from I Spy DIY, like the ones I showed in this post. I can't wait to do my own. Hopefully work will cooperate soon.

• Hair tutorials shared by Sarah of Style IT.  Some great tips from Collette Malouf with step by step pictures. I love how she has taken the mystery out of a style that at first glance seems complicated. I'm fighting the urge to chop off my hair. These new style ideas will be a huge help.

• I love the layering, styling and the hat in the post Summer Magic by B. Jones Style.  I have a few summer hats and I enjoy seeing how other people style theirs. The structure of the hat vs. the flowing jacket are calling my name.

• This black and white look from Megan of The Frugalista Diaries is so chic! The mix of prints and stripes with the pop of color in the bag is fab. Did I mention that she just had a baby? The best of Mommy style and she looks INCREDIBLE! The post also inlcudes a funny story about husbands and clothes.

   

Pretty In Pink - Make your $$ count!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.  It is set aside as a month to bring awareness and to raise money for breast cancer charities and research organizations.  Most importantly, I believe, organizations emphasize the importance of early detection.  My Mom and a good friend are survivors thanks to early detection.  Getting regular exams are crucial.  Getting a mammogram is one of my least favorite things to do but they are so important, due to my family history.  Take care of yourself too. Get your mammogram in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Celebrating survivors and raising money are great goals for the month.  Because of this we are being inundated with pink products. I read an article the other day about scams that are praying on people's emotions.  Just because and item is pink or has a pink ribbon doesn't mean proceeds are going to support breast cancer research or charities.  If your intention is to make a donation via your purchase, check out the product, the labeling and the charity for validity. There are so many items out there that I thought I'd share a few of my favorites.

The Desert Rose Necklace from JewelMint was one of my October picks. 15% of every necklace purchase will be donated to Pink Party.  Boutique owner Elyse Walker created Pink Party after losing her mother to a long battle with ovarian cancer. Pink Party is an annual fundraiser for Cedars-Sinai Women's Caner Program (formerly Women's Cancer Research Institute ) which has raised $5.5 million in the past six years.

Ford created the Warriors in Pink initiative many years ago and every year they sell t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and accessories for men and women.  100% of the net proceeds from the sale of items goes to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. I love this scarf.  Go figure, you know I have a scarf additiction. This colorful beauty sells for $34 and $24.05 of that will go to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

QVC is conducting their annual FFANY shoe sale all month.  During the sale, they sell designer shoes for 1/2 the retail price.  Bargain shoes for a cure!  The proceeds will benefit a multitude of breast cancer charities and research foundations.  They will host a special event on October 15, 6 - 9 p.m. ET.

OPI has produced its Pink of Hearts shade before but this year it's in a Shatter version.  Each bottle of Pink Shatter: Pink of Hearts has a special pink-ribbon tag and pink cap wrap. OPI will also be making a donation of $25,000 to Komen for the Cure.

Sally Beauty is selling quite a few items in support and benefit of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.  They have pledge a minimum donation of $750,000.  My favorite is the China Glaze and Seche Vite Fast Dry Top Coat combo pack.  It's on sale for $8.99.  That's a bargain.  Seche Vite sells for $8.99 or more, regularly.  Essentially you are getting the bottle of China Glaze and the little charm, free.

I couldn't let this post go by without pointing out that Fiat is selling a pink ribbon car.  They'll be donating $1,000 for each car sold for a minimum of $50, 000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The Fiat 500 Pink Ribbon is a limited edition model sold through special order from Fiat, starting at $22,000.

You can also donate directly to these amazing charities. 75% or more of their budgets go to programs.

Breast Cancer Research Foundation

National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund

Breast Cancer Fund

Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Fall Shoe Wishes

Zara always seems to have the most incredible shoes and for some reason, I've never purchased a pair from their site or the store. I don't really have an explanation but hopefully I will remedy that this fall.  I'm loving lots of their fall styles. Each of the pairs have qualities that I love in shoes.



Click on the photos for buying information.

From the top left...

 

• Low Heeled Pointed Toe Ankle Boots - I love low heeled ankle boots. They look great with pants and skirts and this suede version is dressy enough for the office.

• Ankle Boot Sandal - A funky take on a sandal. These ankle boots have a cool rocker edge to them. The ankle straps and chunky heel are sturdy and the wide toe strap will hide my pinky toe that insists on sticking out when I wear strappy sandals.

• Red D'Orsay Flat - You know I'm loving D'Orsay flats this fall. Red ups the pretty quotient on this version.

• Nude Pointed Toe Ballerina Flats - Nude flats are so versatile. I prefer pointed toe flats to round toe flats because they lengthen your legs.  The ankle strap adds sophistication.

• Black Leather D'Orsay Kitten Heels - The cut of these D'Orsay pumps is unique. I also love kitten heels for those days when you don't really want to wear a sky high heel.

• Combination Ankle Boots - The cut out, the color blocking and the low heel of these ankle boots (yeah, you get it, I love ankle boots) create a not so typical boot. I'd wear these on the weekends, with jeans or a winter maxi skirt.

Do you have a wish list of fall shoes?

Booties Aren't For Babies

My latest obsession comes in the form of booties. Specifically peep-toe booties. They can be found in many styles, materials and colors. They are even showing up on runways, red carpets, and tv screens. These coveted shoes can also be found in many price points. The weather is getting colder and there are closed toe options available as well. You can even wear your peep toes into the colder months by wearing them with tights.

I love the look of the suede bootie with a black tight. It works well right now for cooler weather. You can mix it up and wear a lighter color bootie with the black tight or go with a long lean leg look and wear all black just like Nicole Ritchie.



If you wanted to mix the black tight with a lighter colored boot. You could try the Steve Madden Midory Ankle Boot in Khaki Suede.



My current lust are these Fendi Peep-Toe booties with a gladiator edge. They have a bit of a platform and are black suede. You can get them at Saks for the lust filled price of $770.00.



Of course there are less expensive alternatives to be found. Endless.com has quite a few great styles for less than $150.00. The Luichiny Sima Bootie looks like the Fendi and it can be yours for $125.95.



If you'd like a closed toe option, Bouique 9 and Franco Sarto have two great options.



Boutique 9 Santani Boot



Franco Sarto Enemy Boot

If your budget is really tight there is also my treasure trove of budget fashion, Target. The Mossimo line has a great peep-toe bootie available for $26.99 in three colors.





With a little hunting you can find great options in the season's hottest shoe, the peep-toe bootie.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Loafers

I've featured loafers in a two of my posts recently (Five Ways to Update and Just One Item). I love the high heeled versions but I also love the low ones too.  They are a classic shoe that will never go out of style. You can't go wrong with adding a pair to your wardrobe.  Luckily,  I already own a few pairs of loafers (high and low).  I'd love to add these Alexander Wang Anais heeled loafers to my collection.  The metallic finish is modern but the style and cut are classic.  At $650 they are way out of my price range.

I went in search of a few alternatives. I love the metallics but I know they aren't for everyone.  Loafers can be found in all colors, heel heights and price ranges.  These are my favorites.

Loafers for All by realgirlrunway featuring high heels

I don't currently own any metallic loafers.  They are on my hunting list but I'm looking for just the right pair at the right price. Are you going to be wearing loafers this fall?

Happy Shopping Real Girls!