I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Cut Out Boots

My crazy obsession with cut out boots has reached a breaking point. I definitely don't need another pair. They aren't in my budget and I can't buy them.  Unfortunately, that doesn't keep me from looking at and Pinning every pair I see. They are cool, funky, versatile and I love them, I can wear them year round. I snagged the pair in the upper right corner (ASOS ATTACK Leather Gladiator Ankle Boot) before they sold out.  Now I'm lusting after a tan or light colored pair. 



Click the photo above for buying information.

Jeffrey Campbell is the king of the cut out boot. They have so may great styles to choose from.  I could have filled an entire page with just JC boots.  In fact, the majority of the boots above are JC boots. Most of the options I found (that I like) are over $100, which is a bit on the pricey side. If you love this look and want a pair, consider purchasing a pair that will carry over season to season.  Select leather, with clean lines and minimal buckles. I'd recommend the ASOS boots but they are sold out.  The Jeffrey Campbell Melina Cut Outs or the Ecote Gordon Cut Out Boots from Urban Outfitters (the least expensive pair) are good choices for staying power.

What's your latest obsession?

Frugal Fashion Friday - GOLD Rush under $50

Normally gold isn't my first choice but this week I spied the sweater below and then did a little window shopping on the Stella & Dot website.  There are some amazing gold pieces in their new collection.  Since it's Friday, I thought I'd stick with our frugal theme and find some great gold items under $50.

Cross body bags are a weekend staple for me.  At under $15 this one from Target is perfect.  These statement earrings from Stella and Dot are amazing! They're gold but I love that it's almost an accent to the creamy stones and the rhinestones. Over the summer I scored a pair of sunglasses almost exactly like these from Urban Outfitters. They are a fun alternative to my standard black frames. The gold beads of this Stella and Dot necklace look like stones and I love that it compliments the Foundation bracelet (with tiny green stones) without looking too matchy matchy. This green and gold cocktail ring from Stella and Dot is equal parts vintage and cool.  All of the Stella and Dot pieces work well together.  The chunky heel and cap toe of these blue suede pumps make them look like a pair my Mom owned in the 60's.  The bright blue is fun.  I've been on the hunt for a new iPhone case.  These used combined or alone create five different looks.  The cut out gold cover is so sophisticated.

Searching for all of these fun items has given me a new appreciation for gold.  Do you love gold?

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Menswear

Sorry for the lack of posting. I've been and am still a bit under the weather.

There are only two trends left in our Fall 2012 Runway Trends series.  Today it's one of my all time faves, Menswear.  I love borrowing from the boys.  It's fun to wear oxfords and an occasional tie.  As much as I love dresses and skirts, pants are always comfortable.  The trick is wearing the menswear trend in a feminine way.  You can embrace the trend without looking like you are trying to be a man.

When I am embracing menswear, I think it's best to start with the basics. You can never go wrong with a great fitting pair of pinstripe pants. A basic white button up shirt is a staple for menswear style as well. A tailored blazer can be worn with dress pants as well as with jeans or shorts. It's a polished piece that will pull your entire outfit together.

If you just want to add a touch of menswear, go for accessories. I own several pairs of oxfords and love them as an alternative to sneakers.  The new crop comes in tons of colors and styles, like this metallic pair with blue soles from Target.  If you love heels, you can grab a pair of heeled loafers or oxfords.  They work with skirts or pants.  A little over a year ago I was introduced to Ginger Root Designs.  They have a great little boutique in DC or you can check out their online shop.  These ladies create the most fantastic upcycled clothing and menswear style accessories for women.  I'm in love with their Lady Ties.  These fantastic accessories are created from old and damaged men's ties and sometimes vintage buttons.  Not into ties?  Throw on a newsboy cap or grab a cross body satchel.  This one, in oxblood, by The Leather Satchel Company has a top handle which gives it a briefcase feel.  Top it off with a large men's style wrist watch.  It lends that menswear feel without being overpowering.

With just a few additions, it's easy to sport the menswear trend.