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?

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).

Frugal Fashion Friday - On My List (For Black Friday and Cyber Monday)

It's Black Friday and Cyber Monday is fast approaching. Today I'm hosting a fun Black Friday event with Noel Giger and Jamberry! There will be great deals all day, be sure to check it out. I love a bargain but I look for lasting good bargains. Nothing is a bargain if it doesn't last or it never leaves your closet.

Convertible Coat from Elloquii - Entire Site 50% off with code: BLITZ

Two coats in one! It's a great buy and I know I'd wear it often all winter.

Faux Leather Midi Skirt from SimplyBe - All Regularly Priced Items are 40% off!

I'm going to finally take the plunge and buy myself a leather (faux) midi skirt.

Jamberry Rose Gold Metallic is on my list!

 Jamberry nail wraps last a week to 10 days or more! One sheet can do two manicures and a pedicure or three manicures!  The sheets don't dry out like other wraps. You can use them and then store the rest for later use.

 

Midnight Celebration is perfect for NYE or my birthday!
 

There are great deals going on today through Monday! Check out the facebook page. If you don't do facebook, just go directly to the online party.

Silver Penny Loafers from Zara - Entire Site is 30% off, no code needed!

I wear my silver oxfords constantly. I know these would get tons of wear. They'd be a great purchase.

Before you hit the stores to score those great deals, make sure to set up an ebates account!  You'll be rebates to shop. No catch. I just got a check for $15 the other day. Check out this post, where I break it down for you.

Where are you shopping today? Or are you waiting for Cyber Monday?

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.

 

Frugal Fashion Friday - Sales with a side of Apologies

Hi Friends, I know it's been a long time and there has been lots of radio silence. Don't despair, I haven't abandoned you. I started a new job and I've been preoccupied with that work (a great new job) as well as some personal things. Fashion and you all have never been far from my thoughts. I'm going to try to improve my balancing act and begin posting more often again. I've been thinking over some additional summer purchases. Sadly, I don't have time for lots of fun pictures. I thought I'd share some great sale links with you (and one photo).

Nude Sandal - Asos

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale - great buys on high quality items

Zara - favorite store for fashion forward shoes, accessories and clothing (but no plus sizes:( )

Asos - one of my all time favorite European stores

Forever 21 - great for inexpensive trendy items

6pm - fantastic prices on designer jeans

 

These are just a few of my favorites. I will share more later. When you click the link, just look for the Sale link on their navigation bars. Even though we are in the middle of summer, retailers are already making room for their fall merchandise. If you want to find items that you can wear long term (and into fall), look for styles that are classic, like the nude sandals above.

Happy Friday Real Girls!





Styling the Basics - Weekend Edition

I feel like it's been a long week already, which is very sad, since it's only Tuesday. I'm already longing for the weekend. I decided to appease my weekend desire and style some of the basic foundation pieces I told you about last week. As I told you these foundation pieces are like a blank canvas for accessories. Just by adding different touches you can change an entire look.

Click the items for buying information.

For me, weekends call for easy walking shoes and layers. I'm usually doing lots of things, activities for organizations, errands, and maybe lunch out with friends. I don't always have time to run home to change, so my outfit has to work for everything. This one works because it's comfortable and stylish but casual enough for the weekend. The bag is great for errands and the standout jacket gives it punch for lunch out with friends. I snagged this jacket, over the weekend at Target (with a left over Christmas gift card). I can't stop wearing it.

 

Just by changing up the shoes, bag and jewelry, this versatile black dress goes from rock show to a date night dinner. The leather jacket and booties give the dress a rocker vibe. The cross body bag works to keep my hands free at a show, where I may be standing the whole night. Swap out the booties for heels and the cross body bag for a clutch. Add some sparkly jewelry and I'm ready for a fancy dinner with {msL}.

Accessories can be the least expensive items in your wardrobe. Starting with basic pieces, you can use them to totally change your look.

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?

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