AVON Butler Bag WINNER!

Congratulations to the winner of the AVON Butler bag!!

CONGRATULATIONS Tekisha!!

I will be in touch about getting your bag sent out to you. Thanks again to my dear friend Kevin Seiger-Cottoms, AVON Representative, for providing this fantastic bag for me to giveaway!

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Oversized Clutches

I own quite a few smaller clutches, small vintage bags, and I have a collection of Whiting and Davis evening bags. However, when I am going out for a night to show or dinner, most times I reach for my larger clutches. The bag has to be big enough to hold my iPhone, my glasses, money, lipstick, and a few other items. My larger cell phone and the need for glasses has pushed me to need a larger evening bag. Because of this, I've become obsessed with finding interesting oversized clutches.

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

A great bag can be a perfect compliment to your outfit. The selections above give me some dress up and down options for my outfits. I especially love the berry clutch at the top, from Asos. The color is just what I've been looking for in an oversized clutch.

In the Navy

Navy items were all over the fall runway shows and it's easy to see why. It's a flattering color for all skin tones, it's a neutral (just like black) and is a fun a versatile color. I did a little virtual shopping and selected some great navy items. Most of them are under $100. There are even accessory options in navy. Try replacing your favorite black item with one in navy. I'm betting you'll be sold.

Click on any item above for buying information.

 

Sweatshirts are a great seasonal trend. These two in navy, from Old Navy also add sequins and a graphics to the basic sweatshirt. Bold necklaces and earrings are great ways to incorporate the navy trend. By adding some pretty black lace, this basic blouse goes from blah to wow. A classic blazer with white trim can go from weekend to office. This great dress is more interesting in navy and the bottom ruffle is fun. Jacquard print takes this basic navy pants and ups the chic factor. Navy suede pumps are versatile and pretty with a scalloped edge. The pointed toe on these basic loafers makes them more flattering. A quilted vest with a fur collar can take you into winter. Gold buttons and trim are great accents for this classic navy coat. Teal trim is a modern accent on this pretty navy tote.

Do you have your eye on any chic navy items for fall?



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Easy Update with Fall 2013 Accessory Trends

I don't believe in spending tons on trends and I love a good accessory. Great accessories can take wardrobe basics and turn them into an amazing outfit. By spending a small amount, you use this season's accessory trends to elevate your outfits.

 

I've selected just a few of my favorite trends. I love these items to fill that void because they rock the trend and are unique at the same time.

This spike necklace from Asos includes rhinestones for a pretty and tough punk look. Contrast trim and gold hardward turn this basic top handle bag into something special. The zippers on these elbow length leather gloves add a cool twist. The wide frame and rounded shape of these oversize cat eye sunglasses take them from traditional to modern. The color and versatility of these statement earrings made me fall for them. You can wear them as chandelier earrings or as studs by removing the dangle. Two in one, SCORE!  Oxfords are one on my favorite shoe styles. The oxblood color makes these perfect for fall. I own a couple of faux fur scarves. They can make a simple coat look more expensive but they are an inexpensive addition to your wardrobe. Go for a solid color like black or brown or a versatile print like this snow leopard.

All of these items are under $70 and are chic enough that you'll be able to wear them for years to come.

3.1 Phillip Lim for Target

There has been tons of buzz about the upcoming 3.1 Phillip Lim capsule collection for Target. The collection launches September 15. nHis designs and accessories are sought after by fashion girls all over and his Pashli bag is an "IT bag" right now. I'm wondering if this collection will create the same frenzy that the Missoni collection did. That line even crashed Target's website. I think there are some cool pieces but it isn't the amazing collection that I'd hoped for. Of course none of the clothing will be available in plus sizes. That is standard for Target's designer collections, which always disappoints me. Here are a few of the items that I like. In addition to clothing there will also be shoes, bags and accessories. This collection even includes items for men.

You can view the entire look book here. What do you think? Are you waiting to buy some of the collection?

Lust List for Spring

Oh, if money were no object and I didn't have a budget to stick to, I'd buy all of the things I want. Unfortunately, I need to stick to a budget and I sometimes make hard decisions about my fashion and beauty purchases.  Today, I've compiled my lust list for spring. I'd love to have all of the items on this list.  Some are affordable, some aren't.  I may also be able to find some frugal alternatives.

First on my list are the ATTACK Leather Gladiator boots from ASOS.  I'm definitely ordering those.  They are amazing and the perfect bad girl option for spring. I'm in love with the military style vest from Boy. by Band of Outsiders. Of course they don't make it in my size, so I'll have to hunt for an alternative. The studded bag from Aldo is fantastic. The pinkish color turns the tough studs into a spring bag. I've had my eye on the Prada Baroque sunglasses for some time. I know there are similar versions available for much less but hey a girl can dream. Obsessed is a mild word for how I feel about fuchsia lipstick. I even wore it on my wedding day.  I've heard some friends rave about NARS Funny Face.  It's on my must have list. In the spring, as the weather warms, I have to switch from my heavy cream moisturizer to something lighter. Serums are my moisturizer of choice for spring and summer. I've read good things about Boots No. 7's version. It's affordable and available at Target.  Sold!  Every girl needs a little bling.  I used to have four holes in my ear but I let the upper two close. I just have my lobe and my cartilage piercings left. This ear pin is fantastic. It will slide into my lobe piercing but give the look of multiple piercings without any bulk or weight. It's sparkly, pretty, and cool. I may need to rework my spring fashion budget or get a second job.

What's on your spring lust list?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Fall Lust List

Today I'm taking a break from the fall trends to tell you what is on my list of wants.  Some of the items are trends and some are just things I love.  Not all of the items are frugal buys but I will tell you how I plan to get them for a bargain. Today I'm also linking up to Friday's Fancies on Long Distance Loving.

Click on the pictures above to see the details.

Navy Blazer - This classic item will take me everywhere.  I can dress it up or down and it will never go out of style.  I'll be hitting all of my favorite thrift stores and discount stores to hunt for a classic navy blazer.

Leather (Faux Leather) Skirt - A pleated leather skirt has been on my list for a couple of seasons.  Leather is a huge trend this fall.  Faux leather is affordable and if you choose a classic style like pleated or a pencil skirt you can keep it for years. I will be using a discount code to get a great deal on this skirt.

Colored Skinny Jeans - These Bordeaux colored skinny jeans are right on trend.  I scored these NYDJ at Nordstrom Rack for $60 earlier this week! The rich color is great for fall and a fun alternative to blue jeans.

Statement Necklace - I'm in love with the Pegasus Necklace from Stella & Dot.  The layered feathers are beautiful and an unexpected way to do a statement necklace.  I will be using some of my trunk show credits for this fantastic necklace.

Leopard Accented Bag -  Black and leopard combined with the school bag tote style of this bag is perfect for me.  I'll be able to stash all of my essentials and it will still look great.  Even better, this bag from Urban Outfitters is on sale right now!

Statement Cocktail Ring -  If you aren't in the mood to wear a ton of jewelry, a fantastic cocktail ring is the ticket.  There are so many things to love about the Stella & Dot Starstruck ring.  This one is definitely on my list of wants.  I'll be spending some of my trunk show credits on this ring.

Studded Ladylike Pumps - The studs on these ladylike pumps are unexpected. The shoes are very similar to the Valentino studded pumps but at only $100, I can actually afford them! 


Hope you have time to hit up some early fall sales this weekend.  I'm attending fashion even number three of the week, on Saturday.  I'll have recaps next week.  What is on your fall wish list? 

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Work Day to Date Night the Easy Way

Long commutes and a long work day, usually mean that if I have plans after work, I won't have time to go home and change. I like to create outfits that are work appropriate but also easy to transition to an evening out. I've managed to score us tickets to a movie screening of the upcoming release, Hit & Run with Kristen Bell and Bradley Cooper. It will be a fun date night and I want to look great. So too my closet I went. Most of the time all you need to transition from day to night is an evening bag, some amped up make-up and a little shift in your outfit.

I'm fortunate to work in a relaxed office where many styles of dress are accepted. I love my trouser jeans because the dark wash gives them a dress pants look. In many offices, jeans aren't acceptable on any day but Friday. If jeans don't fit at your office, you could go for a pair of trousers or ankle pants. I like the idea of pairing them with a sequin tank. I'll cover it with a draped, cropped, blazer for the office and take it off after work. I grabbed some of my favorite jewelry that works day or night and my new favorite leopard heels. A studded top handle bag is perfect for day but I'll switch to a smaller clutch for evening. The studs will toughen up the pretty sequin tank. I'll change my lipstick from a subtle nude for day to a deep fuchsia for night and I'll add a bit more dark eyeliner for a smokey look. Those simple changes will take me from office to evening. So easy!

In the Clutch of Spring - Picks Under $50

I find myself wanting a new spring clutch but since we are saving for our wedding, my monthly budget for fashion purchases is $50 or less. My criteria for this new clutch aren't difficult. It has to be big enough for day, be a fun color or a neutral and most importantly it can't cost more than $50. I found some great options.

1) ASOS Hand Slot Through Clutch - $36.36

2) Target Xhilaration Yellow/Green Neon Patent Clutch - $19.99

3) Baghaus Urban Expressions Large Envelope Clutch in Light Gold - $35

4) Forever 21 Embellished Tribal Clutch - $27.80

I love all of these for different reasons.  They are definitely on trend.  I love the hand slot on the ASOS clutch and its turquoise shade is perfect for spring.  The Target clutch has extra room thanks to the fun double design. Neon is everywhere right now.  The Baghaus clutch could carry me from day to night and thanks to the metallic finish it would go with everything I own.  Tribal designs were all over the runway. This embellished clutch from Forever 21 does the trend without making you look like you are on safari. 

I love them all. Now I have to pick just one... 

What's In My Bag - Daytime Edition

I have an illness, it's called bag overcrowding. I carry big bags and have a terrible time keeping the stuff inside to a minimum. So I'm constantly cleaning out my bag. There are some items I can't live without. Whether it's a real or perceived need, if I don't have them in my bag, I feel like I'll need them. These are always in my day bag. I pair down a bit for evening or if I'm carrying a day clutch or smaller weekend bag.

My favorite newer bag. Calvin Klein hobo style. A gift from my sister.

• Reading Glasses - I haven't worn glasses most of my life. Until I started spending so much time on my computer and reached a certain age. It seems like I woke up one day and suddenly I couldn't see anymore. My Honey has the same problem. 
• Sunglasses - I have a bit of a sunglasses obsession. The shades I'm sporting change regularly. If I'm not careful, I'll end up with more than one pair in my bag.  
• Gum - It squelches my hunger pangs and banishes coffee breath.  
• Coach Wristlet - I'm almost never without this trusty friend. It holds my cash, license, ATM card, credit card, and the membership cards I use most often. I grab it when I don't want to carry my whole bag. 
• Reusable Bag (with CVS tag) - I try to use this bag as often as possible. It helps me to be more green and if I use it at CVS it will earn me an ECB for every 4 uses. 
• Headphones - They prevent me from being obnoxious to those around me who don't love my music as much as I do.  
• Levenger Shirt Pocket Briefcase and my business cards - I love my iPhone but sometimes I need to jot a quick note or give someone information. This little tool is perfect. I even have cards with my name printed at the top. I also carry two different business cards so it's nice to have a place to store them. 
• Mary Kay Compact - This little beauty holds lip gloss, blush, bronzer and mini brushes.  I customize it with my favorite colors and can change it on a whim. The colors are held in by magnets. It's great for an evening bag too. 
• Beauty Case (with way too many lip colors) - I'm a confessed lip color junkie. I even change my color mid day sometimes. This bag holds lots of lip color, my favorite concealer, oil blotting papers, a Tide pen for my messiness, and of course tampons.
• Wallet - This wallet holds the other credit cards I have (only 2), the bazillion membership cards to every store in the known universe, insurance cards, a couple of checks, and important receipts. This wallet was a gift to myself when I went to Paris. It was a big splurge at the time (2004) but I love it. 
• I also carry my iPhone every day.  It's not in the picture because it's usually in my pocket and not in my bag.

What's in your bag?

Trends - Spring Pastels

The warm weather we are having in DC this week is making me yearn for lots of fun new spring ensembles. Nothing says spring to me more than the pastel trend that is everywhere right now. Maybe it's the memory of getting a new dress for Easter or the fun candies that always filled our house this time of year. This weekend I'll have to go through my spring and summer clothes to pull out a few on my fun pastel items.  Pastels are an easy trend to wear no matter your coloring or body type.  The colors are popping up in clothes and accessories.  You can incorporate a little or a lot of spring pastel color into your outfits.  Try mixing and matching colors or pair one items with a pastel print.  Don't want to go all out? Try a neutral all over and add accessories. Here are a few items I'm loving right now.

I'm going to sport a few of these items with the new mint shades that I created!

How are you going to wear the pastel trend?

When Life Gets in the Way

As much as I hate to admit it, this has been a bit of a lack luster this week here on RGR. We got home from vacation on Monday evening and my paying job has been non-stop ever since.  I've been getting home late from work and haven't managed to get to bed until late every night, trying to catch up on personal things.  I've also been working on a guest post I'll be doing tomorrow for the DC Goodwill Fashionista. These are pathetic blogger excuses, I know and I promise to make it up to you all next week.

Because of all of this craziness I was inspired to talk about getting dressed in the morning  Since I've been blogging and folks know I have a fashion blog, I feel a little more pressure to pull off great daily outfits. That being said, there are days when I'm just not feeling creative or fashionista like. I've gone to bed without a thought of my outfit for the next day.  I get up late or I'm in a hurry. To avoid the boring old office uniform of a black skirt and white blouse, I've devised a couple of quick dressing strategies.

Pick a Simple Base
I have a couple of dresses that are like a blank canvas. They are solid colors, gray, blue, raspberry, etc.  A great fitting dress can take you from day to night and you only have to grab that single item to get started. If you aren't feeling the dress, use a monochromatic, pants and top base.  The top and pants don't have to match exactly but the same color range helps.  And bonus, a monochromatic look is slimming on all figures.

Spice It Up With Accessories 
Adding accessories doesn't just mean jewelry.  With a basic dress, you can add an interesting or contrasting belt, standout shoes and a colorful bag.  You can also never go wrong with a statement necklace and an arm party of bracelets.


Choose a Great Topper
If it's still cool outside, you can pick a jacket or coat that will get you noticed. I'm a big fan of print coats in bright colors.  If your dress is a neutral, you could choose a bright colored trench.

Using these three simple ideas, it makes getting dressed a bit easier. When I'm in a rush or feeling uninspired, it keeps me from losing my mind.

Do you have quick dressing strategies of  your own?  I'd love to know what they are, please share.

Moment of Lust - Celine Luggage Tote

Women's Wear Daily declared the Celine Luggage Tote, the 'It' bag of NY Fashion Week.  I've been lusting after this bag for a long while now. It's one of those classic bags that will never go out of style. It comes in lots of colors.  If you can get one, usually via a waiting list, you'll pay $2,500 or more.  I spotted one on Overstock.com for just $2,669.  Of course it was sold out but it's not like I would have grabbed my credit card, even if it were available.

In addition to being seen on many women walking into the shows at Fashion Week, magazine editors, and socialites, it has been on the arms of lots of celebrity fashion darlings.

Nicole Richie

Reese Witherspoon

Kourtney Kardashian

Leighton Meester

Until recently, my search to find a similar bag of good quality hadn't come close.   This time I'm being really picky. I want a bag that is leather and will last. Even though I can't afford the $2,500+ price tag, I still want a bag that has the same qualities. Then I heard about the J. Crew Tillary Tote. At $328 the bag is still pricey but it's leather, a classic style and there is nary a logo or trendy accessory in sight.  The Tillary has all of the markers of a long term investment bag. It comes in blue and tan.  I love the blue but either would be a great color I'd used often. Maybe it would be worth saving all of my shopping money over the next few months to purchase it.  If you are lucky enough to order it now, it will be shipped in May.  So even this great classic bag has a bit of a wait list.

J. Crew Tillary Tote

Wear the Trend - Orange You Lovely!

A month or so ago, Pantone issued their Spring 2012 fashion trend colors. The top color is Pantone color 17-1463, Tangerine Tango.  I love me some orange, whether it's peach, tangerine, salmon, or coral. Any color that has those orangey hues works for me.  I know you all don't feel that way but I'm here to tell you that anyone can rock orange. Even if you don't want to wear a top, pants or skirt in orange, you can incorporate it into your wardrobe.

Essie polish in Too Too Hot (no longer available)

Beach outfit, including orangey tank

There are so many easy way to incorporate orange into your wardrobe. If you aren't ready for a full outfit, you can try accessories like a bag or shoes. Try just one piece like a simple tee, even a cardigan.

Orange You Lovely by realgirlrunway featuring collezio watches

You can even go for orange lips, if you have the skin tone or orange nails.

Mary Kay Lip Color - Nourishine Lip Gloss in Mango Tango and Creme Lipstick in Sunny Citrus

Essie polish in Meet Me at Sunset

No matter what you chose, have fun with it!! You can wear the trend. Just make it work for you.

Can't Wait - Jason Wu for Target

Timeless and modern are the two words I'd use to describe Jason Wu.  His much anticipated collection for Target will be launching February 5th.  After the craziness that surrounded the Missoni collection, I'm hoping that this launch will be a bit less eventful.  In case you don't know Jason Wu or at least think you don't know him, let me remind you.  He has created some amazing pieces that have been worn by the First Lady, Michelle Obama, including her Inaugural Gown.

I got a little sneak peak today of his collection for Target and had to share it with all of you.  Jason has said that his goal was to create new pieces and not to copy pieces in his current collection. I like that idea.  You'll get a piece that is quintessentially Jason Wu but it will be new and fresh. The dresses are adorable but unfortunately, the won't be available in plus sizes.  Yaaay accessories! I can't wait to see what else will be included in the collection.

Target Beauty Samples (and they were FREE!)

Back in August I battled a busy website to request the Target Beauty Bag. The Target Beauty Bag is a small cosmetic bag filled with soles and coupons. Target offered this goodie bag free (while supplies lasted). I got my box in the mail today.

 

 

Since the box was so small I didn't hold much hope for the contents. I was wrong. There were some good items inside.

 

 

The samples were packaged inside this cute little bag.

 

I got hair care samples from John Frieda, Garnier Fructis and Tresemme Naturals. There were skin care samples from Ponds, Burt's Bees, and L'Oreal. Plus a coupon book containing over $20 worth of coupons. There were coupons for make-up (Revlon, Cover Girl, Maybelline), nail products from Sally Hansen, as well as hair care and skin care from the companies who provided samples and many more. Most coupons were worth $1 or more!

Best of all the samples, bag and coupons were sent to me free! I'm sure Target will offer these bags again. I will keep you posted.

Animal Attraction

One of the big trends for fall is animal print. I told you about python but I'm also seeing lots of other animal prints and fur.  It's one of my favorite ways to spice up an outfit.  You can take a basic palette and make it more interesting with animal print or fur.  I have lots of options when it comes to mixing it up with animal prints. I even found a new accessory, animal print nails.

Leopard Print Nails

Some of my other favorites ways to wear animal print...

Clockwise from Top Left: Leopard print scarf (in green and black), Vintage Lizard Bag,  
Fur Vest dressed down for a baseball game, Leopard print bag (scored at Loehmann's for only $25),
Snake Ring (always a conversation starter)

This post is part of the Bloggers Do It Better challenge over at Pretty Shiny Sparkly.  I love seeing the outfits that other bloggers wear. It's fun to see each person's own interpretation. 



Thrifty Vintage Weekends

Over the last couple of weekends I've done some thrift and vintage shopping. On our Memorial Day weekend trip, we hit up a great thrift store in Winchester, VA and an incredible antique shop called GNC Antiques & Collectibles.  Last weekend, on a whim, we visted my favorite Goodwill store in Alexandria, VA and spent the gift certificate that I won in the DC Goodwill Fashionista DIY contest.  I always find something great at that store.

I found so many amazing pieces at GNC Antiques. I had to narrow down my choices based on my budget. I could have gone nuts and bought jewelry, acessories and even furniture. I fell in love with this vintage ostritch fan from the 40's but the price was a bit more than I wanted to pay.


Vintage Ostritch Fan

 Here's the loot I snagged on my shopping trips!

I really love vintage bags but many times they are too small to make them practical for my daily life.  I like big bags and to be honest, tiny bags only work with my curvy girl frame, for a night out.  Otherwise, they can look like I'm carrying a little girl's bag. This one is big.  It fits all of my daily needs and still has that ladies that lunch look.

Vintage jewelry is so much fun. You know that you won't see your jewelry on anyone else. When I'm hunting for costume pieces, I always reach for those that are unique and even a bit quirky. These earrings and pin fit that bill. The earrings are big but they have a clip back.  I love the sparkle. The pin is like nothing I've ever seen. It's funky and the cascading beads make it a statement piece.

Recently the preppy look has returned with a vengeance. For me, preppy always included my Pappagallo (Bermuda) bag. When I was younger, I didn't exactly care for my bags like I should have. My original Pappagallo bit the dust long ago. I found this one at the thrift store in Winchester for only $5 and it included 3 additional covers. In case you aren't familiar with this type of bag, the covers can be attached and removed via the buttons to change up your bag. One of the covers is a rust colored suede. Such a steal! My Honey bought the bag, covers and a great scarf for me.


Barely there sandals are a staple of my summer wardrobe. I love the braided straps of this pair. I'll style these with a sundress or some slim summer pants. I'm even thinking of creating DIY options to change up the look. I'll get back to you.




My scarf collection is ridiculously large but I can't help myself. Silk scarves are truly the best buy at thrift stores, but I've told you that before. They can totally change your outfit and give a basic dress a whole new look. I scored all of the scarves below for $3 or less. The striped one is actually a long belt sash.

Looking beyond an item's original intention is something I do often when thrifting.  I found this watch band. It's stainless steel and I plan to wear it as a funky bracelet instead of a watch band. The buckle on top will look great stacked with some of my other bracelets. It's different and unexpected. I got it for only $1!