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.

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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.

Labor Day Sale Purchases

Over the weekend I took advantage of some of the holiday sale shopping. I stopped by my favorite outlet store, Talbots and I snagged a few shirts from Old Navy.  I couldn't resist a couple of accessory purchases.

 

At the Talbots outlet, I bought this pair of dark red jeans and a pair of patterned ankle pants in shades of blue and pink.  The entire store was on sale for $19.99 or less. I purchased both pairs of pants for only $28!  A few light weight shirts that would transition to fall were on my list. I've been loving light weight sweaters in cool weather. This color block sweater will be great for work or weekends. I have quite a few striped shirts but this wide black and white striped shirt is a bit different and can be work with some of my skirts and printed pants. I had to throw in a fun shirt. Sequins and a fun saying. What's not to love? Old Navy had a 30% off sales this weekend.

This baseball cap is an inexpensive way to add a leather look to my fall outfits and the olive hue is so versatile. At only $12, I couldn't resist. I used my Stella and Dot credits to snag the Sutton necklace for less than $20.

Two pairs of pants, three shirts, a sweater, a cap and a necklace (that can be worn five ways) for a little more than $100. Successful sale shopping!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Styling Your Sale Buys

End of season sale purchases are only bargains if you can get some wear out of them in the current season and transition them to the next season. I believe that most wardrobe pieces should be multi-seasonal. All of the pieces I chose for the post last Friday can do multi-season duty. Here is how I would style some of those pieces.



Click on the items above for buying information.

 

By combining the shorts with a leather trim blouse, you give them edge. Add some heels, statement jewelry and a bright bag for a fun outfit for going out.

Click on the items above for buying information.

Your cropped pants get some polish with a buttoned denim shirt, a jacket and a lady like bag. Add a statement necklace, designer shades and some sneakers to top off the outfit for weekend errands.

Click on the items above for buying information.

 

A short sleeve cashmere sweater and a jacket add warmth to the summer skirt. A few accessories, including some versatile nude pumps make this outfit work for the office.

All of the jewelry and the fun coral bag styled with these outfits are by Stella and Dot.

Enter to win the $50 Stella and Dot gift card that I'm giving away!  Just click here to enter!

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?

All Dressed Up In Love

Hi Real Girls! Please pardon my lack of posting. I'm getting married this Saturday!  Things are just a bit busy.  On Tuesday, {msL} and I went to DC to get a legal marriage license.  It won't be legal here in Virginia, where we live but we wanted to have a legal license.  We got dressed up for our little civil ceremony.  Saturday will be the date we consider our real wedding day. We'll be having a ceremony and reception with our family and friends.  Tuesday was great.  I started to cry when saying my vows.  I hope I can hold it together on Saturday. 

Dress - Asos, Shoes - Talbots (no longer available), Belt - DIY, Necklace - gift, ring - vintage (my grandmother's), Bracelet - Stella and Dot c/o Kristin Biggs, Earrings - Stella & Dot c/o Kristin Biggs

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! 

Recent Purchases - Fashion, Fitness, and Organization

Lately, I've been really trying to keep my purchases to a minimum.  All of our extra money is going toward the wedding and saving for our upcoming Honeymoon.  I've limited my fashion purchases to items that have been on my must have list.  I'm also working on accomplishing some of my goals for organization and expanding my exercise routine. Then of course there is the wedding. I'm carefully curating my purchases to meet these goals and not to break my budget.

Two things that have been on my must have list for some time are a foil print sweater and low heel pumps.  I found this fantastic foil print sweater at Kohl's for only $34!  That's a far cry from the over $100 sweater I originally fell in love with.  I know it will be in heavy rotation until warm weather arrives.  I love heels but my Rheumatoid Arthritis makes it hard for me to wear high heels every day.  I've found myself gravitating toward all of my kitten heels (about 2" high).  They satisfy my urge for heels but are low enough for me to wear all day without pain in my feet and ankles. These adorable red bow pumps from Talbots were a steal at only $26.

I've set a few goals for myself this year.  An important one was decluttering our home and making it more organized.  I've been slowly cleaning out drawers and cabinets and organizing the remaining items with storage boxes and bins.  I've purchased some from Target and quiet a few from the dollar store.  Another big goal of mine was to take up some new forms of exercise.  I've never been a runner but decided to sign up for a 5K. It's not the first choice from someone with joint issues but I am never one to shy away from a challenge.  The Color Run is a fun way to do a 5K.  I'll be making a tutu to run in and running with some friends.  I needed some cold weather friendly running gear for training, like this jacket.  I grabbed it on the sale rack at Target.  I also needed a new pair of running shoes. These are ASICS, my favorite brand.  I'm using an iPhone app to get ready for the September run.  It's called C25K.  It's a free app. There are quite a few out there but this is the one I'm using. You start out with a combo of running and walking. The app synchs with your music and beeps when you change from walking to running and then back.  It's great.

There are also quite a few things on my wedding list.  Things like additional makeup items I need and items to wear.  I sprung for a really expensive bra a couple weeks ago. I've also been searching for a pair of fancy flats to wear, in case my heels become too much.  I found these gold sparkly flats and love them. Even better they are on sale at Talbots.com for only $20.99.  I've read great reviews of Urban Decay Primer Potion.  People swear by it as a way to make sure your eyeshadow doesn't fade.  Even long wearing eye shadow fades on my oily eyelids.  I really hope it lives up to the hype. I will keep you posted. 

Have you made any great purchases recently?

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?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - White

Remember the fashion rule, "No White After Labor Day"?  Well, completely disregard that old and outdated rule.  This fall, white is HOT.  It was all over the runway in the shows for fall 2012, in all sorts of combinations.  Black and white combined was a big trend. White blouses have always been a year round staple but white was seen in pants, coats, jackets and in entire outfits.

I snagged a new white blazer that I've been sporting regularly. A winter white coat is polished an beautiful.  This one from Land's End even give a nod to the military trend with it's pea coat style.  You can never go wrong with white jewelry, year round.  It goes with everything and these pearl and enamel pieces from Stella & Dot, are fun and classic pieces you'll be able to wear for years. Pearls are a great way to do white jewelry.  A white watch is already part of my wardrobe.  The one looks like a more expensive designer style but it's less than $20.  Lace works with this year's brocade trend.  A top or a dress with lace is a pretty addition to your fall outfits.  Just add a jacket or a cardigan and they can be worn well into winter. White pants in the fall?  Yes, pair them with a chunky sweater and some boots and you'll have a fantastic weekend outfit.  This top handle bag by Dooney & Bourke, with brown accents will work with all of your fall favorites.  I'm in love with these winter white, flat boots.  The neutral color will go great with pants or a wool skirt when the temps drop.

Are you going to wear white this fall or are you sticking to the old rule?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Friday's Fancies Summer Treat

This week has been so busy that I haven't had much free time.  This Frugal Fashion Friday post is going to be short.  I'm linking up again today, this time with {av} from Long Distance Loving.  I love her Friday's Fancies link ups.  They are fun ideas.  Today the challenge was to create an outfit inspired by a favorite treat.  I LOVE popsicles. I've loved them since I was a little kid and still love them. Early this week, I mentioned the recipe for the Cherry Lime popsicles that I found on Skinny Taste and pinned to Pinterest.  These yummy treats were my inspiration.

Click on the picture to view all of the details.

The combination of green skirt, sparkly top, brown platforms and the maroon flower scream summer and have all of the elements of this cool, fruity, treat.

Virtual Shopping - Talbots

There are two qualities I love in a store, quality merchandise at a reasonable price and items that come in all sizes (petite to plus).  There is nothing worse than finding a great item and then discovering that it doesn't come in your size.  I hate that!  Those two qualities are the main reasons I LOVE Talbots.  They have beautiful clothing at reasonable prices.  Sometimes, like this past weekend, you can find amazing bargains.  Like the skirt and top I got for 75% off.  I only paid $25 for both items!!

70's Influenced

I know that this outfit isn't really 70's style but for me, pairing olive and orange together always reminds me of the 70's.  Maybe it's because I really loved the home of our family friends, the McLeod's, that was very modern, mod and full of orange and olive colored furniture and appliances. The color combo always reminds me of that time.  I also decided that Polaroid style pictures would fit with today's 70's theme.

Today I'm sporting two of my favorite wardrobe pieces.  The olive army influenced jacket from Talbots that I snagged at the outlet.  The other is this fantastic orange skirt, a gift from Fashion to Figure.  Orange, as you know, is the color of the season. Unfortunately, the skirt is no longer available. I love that the clothes at Fashion to Figure are so on trend and modern.  They know that curvy girls want to accentuate our curves, not hide them and they always offer the latest in fashion forward clothes.  If you live in the DC area, Fashion to Figure is opening a brand new store on February 12 at the Mall at Prince Georges in Hyattsville, Maryland.  They just opened a new store in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and their grand opening party is this Saturday. If you don't live close to one of their brick and mortar locations you can always shop online.

Jacket - Talbots, Shirt - Kohl's, Skirt - c/o Fashion to Figure, Boots - Silhouettes, Bracelets - Craft Show and Gifts, Watch - Kohl's, Necklace - Gift, Nails - Revlon ColorStay Longwear in Sequin

I'm still trying out all of the lipsticks I purchased in my search for the perfect red lip.  I thought it would be good to test each one by wearing it for at least a day.  I think just trying it once doesn't really give me a fair picture.  This color is L'Oreal Color Riche in Target Red.  It's sold only at Target stores.  It's a semi sheer bluish red.  I really like the consistency and the semi sheer finish.  It's also not as matte as some of the other reds I've tried.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Favorite Bargain Sites

Shopping is one of my favorite past times but truth be told I haven't been doing much of it lately.  I have tightened my budget and am being extremely frugal with my purchases. I've started recycling and revamping some clothing and shoes that I had stored away.  When shopping was an option, I've been hitting the thrift stores.  My stellar luck lately with finding not one but two pairs of Ferragamo heels, helps to keep my eye on the prize.  The goal is to save for and pay for a great wedding without going into debt.  My Honey and I both agree that wedding debt is not an option.  If we can't pay for it with savings or through the generosity of loved ones, it won't happen. Hence the reason for tight budgeting.

Clockwise from Top: Dress from ASOS, Pradas from DSW, Jacket and shoes from Talbots,
Bracelets from JewelMint, Rainboots from Forever 21

My purchases are frugal and well thought out.  Frugal doesn't always mean the least expensive option but it does mean a quality option for a good price. Cyber Monday is coming up soon and I'm sure there will be lots of bargains available.  I thought I'd share with you, some of my favorite online shopping sites and the reasons I love them.

Trendy Items - Forever 21  
F21 has a great selection of clothing, shoes and accessories at amazingly affordable prices.  They even sell plus size clothing. Bargain prices are always mandatory for trendy items, ones that I will most likely only wear for a season or two, at least for me.  I just don't see the point in paying top dollar for an item I'll be tired of or that will look dated by this time next year.

European Style - ASOS
I've sung the praises of ASOS many times.  Their selection of fashion forward European style is fantastic.  I find great bargains and they have free shipping both ways (if you need to return).  Their selection of shoes, jewelry and plus size clothing is amazing. They only negative is that it can take a little longer for your items to arrive but they are coming from Europe, after all.  It's worth the wait.

Jewelry - JewelMint
The quality and amazing design of JewelMint jewelry has made me a loyal customer.  Each piece is $29.99 but many times, there are sets available where you get multiple pieces of jewelry for that price.  If you like them on facebook or follow them on twitter, you can also get discounts on single pieces and multiples. You've seen me wear JewelMint many times. They have something for everyone and a great price.

Classic Clothing - Talbots
If you are looking for beautifully tailored classic style, Talbots is a must.  They sell clothing is all sizes (petite to plus) and most of the items they sell are timeless.  I love their outlet stores but many of the items in the outlet stores are also being sold online. I've purchased amazing skirts and tops for less than $20!  For an item that I could wear for years, that is truly a bargain.

Plus Sizes - Fashion to Figure
There was a time that if you were in the plus size range, you could forget finding any dress that didn't look like a tent.  Times have changed, my friends, thanks to amazing stores like Fashion to Figure.  They sell fantastic clothing and there is nary a muumuu in sight! The clothing is stylish, fashion forward and affordable. It flatters women of all shapes and sizes (from 12 - 26).  I'll be doing a review of their clothing soon. I'm in love!

Shoes - DSW
Their selection and range of options is great.  They have great sales and you can use up to three coupon codes on one order!  Returns are a breeze because you can return an item via mail or to a store. Many of the items online can be found in their stores and vice versa.  I always check the sale pages before I go into the new items.  I've gotten some great bargains, including my find of the century, navy blue satin Pradas (pictured above).

These are just a few of my favorites.  Which online shopping sites do you love and why?

I set this post up in advance because I'm on a long weekend trip with my Mom and sister to The Biltmore Estate in North Carolina.  I'll be posting pictures all weekend on facebook and twitter.  Be sure to follow me.



Happy Friday Real Girls!