Summer Lovin'

It's been a whirlwind summer and I've been neglecting RGR (as you know). We've traveled a ton, I've worked at my full time job, I've had tons of fun and I have been working hard on my business. It has been one of the best summers I've had in a long time but at times it's also been tiring and a little stressful. I'm going to attempt to catch you up over the next couple weeks. If you follow me on Instagram, then you've seen photos of some of the adventures. One of my favorite events this summer was the wedding of my cousin Brittany. It was a day filled with love and family. Back in the spring I was struggling to find outfits to wear to the many weddings we had on the calendar. I managed to find a great dress at Lane Bryant. It was sold out online but I tracked it down in a local store. Definitely a great purchase. I also wore it to the Stella & Dot fashion show in Vegas.

 

Dress: Lela Rose for Lane Bryant (no longer available but I love this one.), Jewelry and Clutch: Stella & Dot, Sandals: Circus by Sam Edelman via Amazon

I love that {msL} and I managed to coordinate without trying.

My sweet Mom.

My Aunt, the beautiful Bride (my cousin Brittany), and I

The Happy Couple! Congrats Brittany and Jeremy!

What's Going On

There are lots of things that go on in my life that don't get posted to RGR. I am an avid Instagram and Twitter user but I know some of you don't utilize those platforms. I thought I would start a little (occasional) series. I'll be highlighting those things that don't make it to the blog and previewing some future content. Because my love of for 60's and 70's R and B runs deep, I thought I would call on Marvin for this one. Sadly Marvin is no longer with us.



May was really busy and June and July promise to be even busier. You know you're in for a crazy summer with the majority of your weekends in May, June and July are booked before the end of March. I'm trying to squeeze in some home repairs, Stella and Dot trunk shows, and relaxation into my schedule.

Falling in love with Korean skin care products, post soon.

I'm trying out some fun new products via Influenster, post soon.

Small changes to our bedroom. A close up of our new comforter.

The Stella & Dot Fall Preview collection launches today!  www.stelladot.com/debv to order

Old chairs to rehab...

A little spray paint and now they are like new and ready for summer!

Fun with friends (and {msL}) and some fantastic new music last weekend.

If you're on Instagram (@realgirlrunway) or Twitter (@realgirlrunway), I'd love for your to follow me. Be sure to say hi and I will return the favor.

Moto In the Tropics

I love a great biker jacket. I own quite a few in different fabrics. When I spied this one, while standing in line to check out at Kohl's, I knew I had to have it. Impulse buys are rarely something I indulge in these days. In the past, I spent lots of money on items that I didn't really love and rarely wore. Last spring I saw a biker jacket, in a fun print, on one of my favorite clothing store sites. It was amazing and I loved it but the price was close to $200. I just couldn't justify spending that much. When I saw this similar jacket in a fun tropical print, I flipped. It was a great substitute at a great price. I've already worn it to work a couple of times, with a skirt and pants. Casual but polished was what I needed to go to a few appointments one day last week. This jacket and the heels, amped up my basic outfit.

This jacket was a perfect excuse to try the jeans and heels look. I grabbed my favorite black kitten heels and threw together this combo. 

Jacket: Kohl's, Top: BB Dakota via Amazon, Jeans: NYDJ via Amazon, Shoes: Target (no longer available), Sunglasses: Ray-Ban via Amazon, Jewelry: Stella & Dot

A Little Spring Shopping - May 2015

I may or may not have used shopping for wedding clothes and my weight loss as an excuse to buy some new clothes (and shoes, and a bag, and nail wraps). After hibernating all winter, I want bright colors and fun.

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8

Jumpsuit - This beauty was my answer to a casual wedding. I wore it with some great silver jewelry from Stella & Dot and the silver sandals. I can also wear it with a white blazer and some pumps to work or with strappy sandals to another event.

Graphic Tees - My affection for fun, graphic tees is well known. These two are fun new additions and nods to two movies I love.

Tropical Print Moto Jacket - This jacket was an impulse buy, which I rarely do anymore. I'm sure it's going to get lots of use because I love it so much. The tropical print is a spring trend but it's a little different done in a moto jacket.

White Jeans - I had to replace the white jeans I donated, because they were too big. I scored a pair similar to these from the Talbots Outlet, for only $34.

Jamberry Nails - I hosted a little Jamberry party for my friends and had quite a few hostess credits. These are a few of the patterns I purchased with my credits. I have become a Jamberry devotee. They look great and last two weeks or more. You can't beat that!

Paris Market Tote - This bag is one of my favorites. I love that I can carry all of my items for work and it still looks chic. I also own it in black.  The black version is on sale for 50% off right now!

Silver Sandals - I needed a neutral pair of sandals that would work for an outdoor wedding but also stand up to wet grass and dirt. I've ruined several pairs of shoes because of poor yard conditions. These were perfect and a great find. I snagged these at Saks Off 5th for $30.

Summer Wedding Necessities

To be honest, the title of this post is a bit deceiving. Some of these items are more likely perceived necessities but a girl has to dream. We have four weddings on our calendar between May and July. I've lost weight over the last year and all of my dresses are too big. That's a beautiful thing but it's also challenging. Most of the weddings have some sort of outdoor element to them, which means stilettos and long gowns are out. Weather can change from warm to cool at night, so I will need some versatile options. In addition to the wedding, there will also be a few events surrounding some of the weddings. I'll be traveling to all of them. Three are out of state. I want outfits that pack well and will still look great. Challenge accepted. I went searching for some inspiration.

 photo credits: Fashion Vibe, Gal Meets Glam, A Little Dash of Darling


None of the weddings are formal but some are dressier than others. Some are extremely casual and frankly, those throw me a bit. I want to be dressed appropriately, per the couple's guidelines but I also want to look good. And I always err on the side of dressy. It never bothers me to be a little more dressed up than other guests. I prefer it over being overly casual. I found these three options.

Lane Bryant (sold out online, available in stores) / Asos / eShakti

Each of these dresses will look great dressed up with heels and statement jewelry or dressed down with flats or flat sandals and more simple jewelry. Versatility is always important to me. 

Jewelry by Stella & Dot / Shoes available via Saks Off 5th

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?

Telling My Story - KEEP Collective

One of the things I've enjoyed the most about blogging is meeting fantastic people that I most likely would have never met. Some of these great people I've only met via internet and phone, due to geography. Recently you've read about my friend Alison and about my friend Noel. Alison and I are lucky enough to live close by but Noel, who I met through blogging, lives in Texas. Through her, I met Candice (she also lives in Texas), who is a KEEP Collective Designer. When I was first met Candice, via facebook, I was not yet a Stella and Dot Stylist. In case you didn't know, KEEP Collective is a sister company to Stella and Dot. When I became a Stylist, Candice and I decided it would be fun to work together. She was kind enough to send me some KEEP Collective goodies and I sent her some Stella & Dot goodies.

Candice chose the Grace Chandelier earrings, which look stunning on her and the Gilded Arrow Bangle.  She looks beautiful wearing her earrings (top photo). We both styled our Gilded Arrow Bangle with our KEEP Collective bracelets. Candice is wearing the mesh bracelets and the Time Key. I'm wearing the Double leather bracelet in rose gold (and saddle, on the reverse) and the accent keys that tell my story.  If you follow me on facebook or Instagram, you've seen my love of personalized jewelry. It's special to have a piece of jewelry that is your own. KEEP Collective makes that possible.

I love KEEP Collective because it's so personal.  Each person can wear the same accent key and it means something different to each person.

 

So why did I choose these accent keys?

• Crescent Moon - for {msL}. Since early on in our relationship, we've always shared a love of the moon. Even today (9 years in), if one of us sees a great moon, we will show it to the other. I woke her up one night recently and got her to come out on the deck to see how bright and beautiful the moon was.
• Knot - for my Dad (and {msL}). My Dad loved all things nautical and his hobby was knot tying. Knots always remind me of him because he was such a strong bond for our family. During our wedding ceremony, {msL} and I tied a sailors knot in honor of our Dad's (her Dad was a sailor). When you pull on a sailor's knot it just gets tighter. The rope will break before the knot unties.
• Eiffel Tower - represents my love of travel and fashion. I was lucky enough to visit Paris several years ago and I can't wait to go back.
• Champagne Glass - I believe that life should be a celebration. We should never take our days for granted. Life is short and we should approach it with joy and gusto.

KEEP Collective has so many options for you to tell your own story, including letters, numbers, gem stones, sayings and many more accent keys. They have bracelets in leather and metal as well as necklaces. All of the leather bracelets are two colors (double sided). You can change your accent keys and your story at any time. The keys slide on and off of the bracelets and necklaces. Candice can help you to design something that is personal and uniquely your own.  I love my bracelet and I already have a growing wish list, including a time key and more accent keys.

Fashion and Friendship Friday (and a Giveaway)

Yesterday I had a big deadline for my full time job. I know I promised to work on finding a blogging, work and life balance and I'm not really doing that yet. The main paycheck won out over the last two weeks. I'm taking a three day weekend and I'm working on some fun things for next week. Behind the scenes I have been making some things happen. Today, my dear friend and blogger Alison, is giving away the beautiful Fortuna necklace (in either gold or silver, your choice)!! I read her blog, Wardrobe Oxygen, daily. Alison was one of the first bloggers I ever met in person.

Fortuna Necklace (three ways)

If you follow me on instagram, you saw this photo from the DC Goodwill gala. I'm wearing the Stella and Dot Pegasus necklace in this photo. We don't get to see each other as often as we'd like but when we do, it's always a great time. Alison is celebrating 10 years of Wardrobe Oxygen and I'm thrilled to celebrate her success and her wonderful blog.

Make sure you check out her blog and enter the giveaway!

Happy Friday Real Girls!

On My Radar - Winter Basics

I've been a bit preoccupied lately with family and getting my new business started. My apologies for being MIA. I'm working on finding a balance for all of my fashion loves. Please bear with me. Today, I thought I'd share some of my favorite winter basics. I own a few of these and others are on my "must buy" list.

Over the last year I've found that my style is definitely evolving. I used to go for lots of sequins and printed stand out tops. Now, most days I start with some basics for my foundation and add great jackets, jewelry, and accessories. I've noticed that on casual days I reach for my jeans (loving my burgundy NYDJ pair) and a t-shirt or thin sweater. For work, I'm going for solid or printed pants and a solid top (blouse, sweater, or top). Adding eye catching jewelry and a statement bag is a must for me. I adore heels but this winter oxfords and classic boots have been my go-to shoes. They are comfortable for my RA and they keep my feet warm. They definitely aren't as sexy as heels but I've decided that if flats are going to be my staples that I will own great flats.

• Black Wrap Coat - I already own a tan wrap coat but it's long. I keep wishing for a black version and I love the collar on this one from Tahari but sadly, it looks like it's out of stock in my size. I guess I will be on the hunt for another one.
• Layered Silver Necklace - I love silver and this necklace is a new favorite, by Stella and Dot. It also comes in a gold and quartz version. You can wear the chains separately or together! Three looks in one. 
• Custom Engravable Cuff Bracelet - This bracelet is a fun take on a traditional monogram. You can get up to 14 characters and lots of different configurations. It also comes in gold and it's by Stella and Dot. The phrase on it is part of one of my favorite movie lines (from Terminator 2) and a personal philosophy. "The future's not set. There's no fate but what we make for ourselves."  As much as I love great fashion, it's what we do in those clothes that really matters.
• Bright Bag - A bright colored bag can add just the right pop of color to a solid outfit. The cobalt blue version of the Paris Market Tote by Stella and Dot is on my wish list. The leather is buttery soft and the Stella and Dot bags are made by the same company that produces bags for Marc Jacobs. 
•  Black Ankle Boots - Originally I intended to get a pair of zip up ankle boots. They will replace a pair I've had for ages, that I've intended to replace for years. Unfortunately, I didn't purchase the ones I spied in the fall, fast enough and now they are gone. As luck would have it Zara is having their end of the season sale. I scored these beauties the other day, as well as a pair of black pointed toe loafers with gold detail.

 I'm composing outfits in my head, as I type this post. Hopefully, I will have some time soon to put up a few outfits post.

What are your go to winter basics?

Stella and Dot Necklace Winner!

I'm excited to give someone their choice of a beautiful custom engraved Stella and Dot necklace.  It's a fantastic piece to add to a jewelry wardrobe.

I used a random number generator to determine the winner. Each entrant was assigned a number. Then using Random.org, the number was generated. CONGRATS to the winner!

CONGRATULATIONS TLC (Tameka)!!

 

I will be in touch to get you your necklace. 



Stella & Dot Giveaway - Custom Engraved Necklace - CLOSED

One of my favorite pieces of jewelry is my monogram necklace. It was a gift from {msL} years ago. Now you can win your very own custom engraved necklace!! To celebrate my new Stella and Dot business I'm giving away your choice of a custom engraved round or bar pendant in your choice of gold or silver. There are so many ways to customize these necklaces that I couldn't possibly include them all. All you need to do to win is to leave a comment below telling me how you'd personalize your necklace. I have my eye on one with our wedding date.

The winner will chose the circle or bar style necklace, in silver or gold, and add their personal design. You can see all of the font and design options by clicking the Personalize link on the page for each piece. Enter your comment below and good luck!!!

The giveaway will end at 11:59pm on Wednesday, December 17th.

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS CLOSED

Stella & Dot (Your Choice) Giveaway (just leave a comment) - CLOSED

To celebrate the launch of my new Stella and Dot venture, instead of Frugal Fashion Friday, I'm hosting a giveaway! The custom engravable necklaces we have are a great addition to the Stella and Dot line. You can create beautiful pieces of engraved jewelry that is uniquely yours. Your custom options are limited only by the number of characters your can fit on the charm or necklace. To enter, all you need to do is leave a comment below!

Gold Engravable Circle Necklace

Silver Engravable Bar Necklace

Winning is easy, just enter a comment below telling me how you'd personalize your necklace. I'd love to have one with my wedding date!

The winner will chose the circle or bar style necklace, in silver or gold, and add their personal design. You can see all of the font options by clicking the Personalize link on the page for each piece.

The giveaway will end at 11:59pm on Wednesday, December 17th.
This Giveaway has CLOSED

 

Happy Friday Real Girls!!

Next week I will be sharing some great new items I've tried out (beauty and fashion).

An Exciting New Venture! (and Giveaway)

If you've been reading RGR for a while, you know my love for Stella & Dot jewelry. My love affair began in May of 2012, when I attended the NoVA Fashion Week Luxe Lifestyle Event. It was there that I met Kristin Biggs, Stella and Dot Stylist. That night I also gained a dear friend in Kristin. Over the years, we've had lots of fun with jewelry, lots of great conversation and tons of fun. Before Thanksgiving I approached Kristin about becoming a Stylist myself. I had done some research and decided it would be a great fit for me and a way to make some extra money but also set my own hours. Kristin spent hours answering all of my questions and was very encouraging but didn't pressure me at all. I spent the next two weeks thinking and doing more research. Last week I decided to take a leap and become a Stylist. Frankly, I was a bit scared but I think that's a good thing. I love this quote.

 

― Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, This Child Will Be Great: Memoir of a Remarkable Life by Africa's First Woman President

I have always needed challenges in my life. This venture is a huge challenge. It will take hard work, in addition to my full time job but I know I can make it my own. It's easy to be passionate about something you love.

 

The first piece I fell for back in May of 2012 was the Femme Fatale. This necklace was everything I loved. I could wear it at work (like in the photo below) or to a rock show with a t-shirt. It's shiny, chunky, pretty and attention grabbing. It's still one of my favorites. Stella and Dot retires their pieces eventually, which is a great for a collector but sad when someone spies a piece they love and it's no longer available. The great news is there are always great new pieces to fall for.

 

A few of my favorites...

Just a few of my current favorites are the Déjà Vu earrings, Renegade bracelets (I'm loving the rose gold version, not pictured below), and the Sutton necklace. The Déjà Vu earrings are three pairs in one, just flip them around and you can have a brand new pair. I say three because you cold wear the solid side in one ear and the pave side in the other ear.

It's amazing to me how so many women with different personal styles love the Renegade. From preppy girls, to rocker girls, it can work for anyone and everyone.

The Sutton necklace (it comes in five different colors, mixed metal, gold, silver, white, and green). I love the sutton because you can wear it five different ways, just on it's own. How great is that!?

I will have a giveaway later this week! STAY TUNED!

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).

Office to Office Party Style

The Holiday season is almost upon us and no matter how you celebrate, everyone will be attending parties and impromptu gatherings. For me, lots of these events may be planned for the hours immediately after work and involve coworkers. There’s no time to go home and change and because my coworkers are involved, I want to look festive and professional. A great dress fits that bill. By changing up a few accessories and my shoes, I can go from office professional to holiday festive, in a flash.

Printed Mesh Dress

 

I love this dress from Roaman’s. The fitted top and flared skirt are flattering on all body types. The silhouette is especially flattering on my pear shaped frame. The colors of the dress are versatile and mean that it could work year round. You know I’m all about the multi-seasonal clothes. The pattern and piping give it some visual interest. For the office, I would add a blazer, some classic pumps, simple but pretty stud earrings, bracelets, a watch, and a colorful tote to carry my daytime essentials.

Dress/Blazer/Pumps/Bag/Watch/Bracelets/Earrings

 

I’m all about simple, after a long work day. I’d just swap my pumps for some metallic sandals and the blazer for a bolero sweater, (a wrap, or go without a topper,) add a sparkly necklace and a statement bracelet, and swap out my day tote for an evening bag. As you know the sparkly jewelry from Stella and Dot is a regular part of my wardrobe and I’m in love with this evening bag from Zara. You could carry it hands free with the shoulder strap (easier to juggle a cocktail) or tuck in the strap and carry it as a clutch. It would be easy to throw all of the items into a small tote bag and carry them with me. I could make this quick change in my office (or cubicle). To lend additional evening flare, I’d go for a more dramatic lip color, add an extra coat of mascara and I’d be set.

Dress/Bolero Sweater/Heeled Sandals/Bag/Watch/Bracelet/Earrings/Necklace

 

This same method could work on the weekend, with a casual day outfit. Just dress up your jeans and t-shirt with a fancy jacket, heels, and some statement jewelry. The Holidays are a busy time for everyone, simplifying your wardrobe changes will take a bit of the stress away.

 

Disclosure: The opinions expressed in this post are my own. This is a sponsored post.

 

WINNER: Stella & Dot Rory Necklace

Thank you to everyone who entered the giveaway for the Stella and Dot Rory necklace. I hope you will all keep reading and stay tuned for more great style and giveaways. I've been neglecting RGR a bit over the last week because I've been focusing on work and some DIY projects.

CONGRATULATIONS!!

to

Trish C. F.!!

 

I will be emailing your soon about your necklace!



My Easter Duds and a Giveaway - Stella & Dot Rory Necklace!

Over the weekend, we made a quick trip to see my Mom. My visits with her are never long enough and this one was delayed because we had a sewer problem at our house. Plumbers earn every bit of their pay, it's a nasty job. There is still more fixing to do and more money to pay (UGH!) but we have a little peace of mind. It was nice to leave that stress behind and spend some time with Mom.

Jacket - Target, Top - Talbots Outlet, Skirt - Talbots Outlet, Shoes - Asos (no longer available but similar here and here), Aviators - Amazon, Rings - gifts, Bracelets - vintage (gifts) and Stella and Dot, Watch - Timex (gift), Lips - Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Lollipop

Rory Necklace (bottom) and Somervell Necklace from Stella & Dot

I also see this necklace styled with a coral top or jacket (like this kimono I just purchased) and some white jeans. I'm sure I'll be wearing it constantly. It's the perfect summer addition.


Would you like to win your very own Rory Necklace?! My good friend and Stella and Dot Stylist, Kristin Biggs has generously offered to give one of you lucky readers a Rory Necklace of your very own. Just enter below by leaving using the handy entry and leaving a blog comment about how you'd wear the Rory. You can also gain additional entries by liking RGR and Kristin on Facebook, following RGR on twitter and tweeting about the giveaway. The contest will end at midnight on May 5th.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GOOD LUCK!!