I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Rose Gold

I've found myself reaching for my few rose gold pieces often. I'm loving that they mix so well with silver or gold. The pretty pink color is so warm and summery and you know how I love metallics. I have found myself wanting a few more rose gold items to add to my collection.

Click on the items above for buying information.

I saw these fantastic Ray-Ban aviators on some fellow bloggers. Then I lucked out and found them on amazon. They were a great price and I love them. It's hard to tell but they have the most amazing rose gold mirror lenses (even though they are called Copper Flash). The rose gold Stella and Dot Renegade bracelet has been on my must list for a while. I'd love to get a rose gold monogram necklace. This Rebecca Minkoff cross body bag would be a fun addition to my summer wardrobe. Essie polish in Penny Talk is a fun metallic to add to your collection. Just be sure to use a ridge filling base coat because the metallic finish shows every ridge and flaw. I love the geometric shapes of these rings. This belt would look so pretty on a white dress. You know my obsession with oxfords. These by Cole Haan would be a perfect addition to my collection. The Manolos are a pipe dream but I love them. The flat sandals are a pretty and more realistic option.

Do you love rose gold as much as I do?

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Mirror Metallics

My love of silver and other metallics is no secret. I even painted a table silver. A pair of bedside tables are next. I'm especially in love with mirror metallics.  I love how they stand out, make a statement but still go with everything.  Metallics are neutral.  You would never think of whether or not you can wear a silver or gold necklace with a specific color top or dress.  It's the same with a metallic shoe or bag.  I wear my mirror silver oxfords constantly and I'm dying for a pair of flats or a cute low heel.

Click above for buying information.

You can even wear silver mirror nails. I love the version by Jamberry. I did a review of them in September. I love that they last a long time and don't dry out. You can get several manicures from one set of Jamberry nails.

More mirror metallic items are on my want list.  I'm loving the ankle strap low heels and the mirror clutch.

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Brocade & Embroidery

Another installment in the Fall 2012 Runway Trend series, today we are focusing on the brocade and embroidery trend.  I've heard this trend referred to as brocade, embroidery and baroque.  No matter what you call it, the trend focuses on detailed stitched patterns and luxurious fabric. My favorite is the brocade skirt.  It's beautiful and versatile.  Dress it up with a blouse and heels or down with a t-shirt and flats. You can also carry the trend into jewelry with a statement necklace or a beautiful ring or cuff.

A pretty brocade dress will be timeless.  With a simple change of shoes and accessories, you will be able to update it for years to come.  A single brocade or embroidered piece can be the stand out of your entire outfit.  I own the Alexandria necklace by Stella & Dot (upper right corner).  I wear it constantly to work with my dress clothes and on the weekend with a t-shirt and jeans.  Every time I put it on, someone asks me about it.  You can even make your brocade piece look rock n' roll, just add that other fall trend, leather.

How will you be wearing this trend?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Off to the Races

Today's Frugal Fashion Friday centers on the parties this weekend for the Virginia Gold Cup and the Kentucky Derby. It was one of the options for today's Friday's Fancies.  A huge part of these events are the hats and outfits worn by attendees.  Two weekends ago my cousin and I created her hat for the Gold Cup (she'll be attending this weekend).  It was a fun DIY project. I decided to create an outfit surrounding the hat we created.  I selected some frugal options for girls on a budget.

Clockwise from the top center

1) DIY Derby and Gold Cup Hat (DIY Details Here)

2) ASOS Bow Skinny Belt $10.91

3) ASOS Curve Skater Dress with Crochet Trim $63.63

4) Forever 21 Detailed Cutout Bracelet $5.80

5) ALDO Elnicki Flat Sandals $35.00

6) ASOS Skater Dress with Belt $45.45

 

 

I won't be attending any of the Gold Cup and Derby events myself this weekend. My Honey and I are going to be chaperones for a local Gay Straight Alliance prom this weekend, instead. I'm really excited to help out the kids and support such a fantastic cause.  So many kids can't attend their proms with the person they choose because of fear, bullying or school regulations.  If you know a kid who needs support and help, please be there for them. If you aren't sure how to help you can check out these great resources. 

GLSEN: Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network

Gay Straight Alliance Network

Parents, Families & Friends of Lesbians and Gays

SMYAL

The Trevor Project (in case you know a kid who is in jeopardy)

Whatever your plans, I hope you have a fantastic weekend. 

Happy Friday Real Girls!!!

 

I'm Obesessed Thank You Very Much - Neon Accessories

In the 80's neon was a huge trend. It was everywhere.  I even owned a pair of neon pink tights and some truly horrid neon blue mascara that I wore constantly. The neon trend is back again. I won't be reliving the mascara but we all made bad fashion choices in high school.  Come on, you know you did too. I do still love a pop of neon in accessories.  They are a fun way to wear the trend without looking like an 80's flashback or a fashion trend victim. Accessories are a simple way to introduce some color to your outfit and try out the trend without having to dive in too deep.  Neon next to black or white is a stand out.

Neon accessories by Real Girl Runway

You all know I don't believe in spending a ton on trendy pieces. They usually aren't something that will stand the test of time.  You'll be tired of them in a season or two. Finding those trendy pieces for less is key. The necklace is the most expensive in this lot but that's because I couldn't include the necklace I really love in this collage (stupid Internet programs). Below is a necklace made and sold by  Colorblock Shop on etsy.com. This is only one of some fantastic neon pieces listed. You have to check them out. Necklaces are made to order and this one sells for $36. It's such a fantastic piece and it's affordable.
  

Do you like the neon trend or are you going to skip this one?

Neon Accessories

Moment of Lust - B-Low the Belt Curb Chain Belt

I spotted this chain belt on Project Runway and fell in love. It's simple but tough. I could picture it with an LBD or dressing up a plain sweater or shirt.

B-Low the Belt Curb-Chain Belt $195

$195 is just way too much for a belt.  I can't do it. A DIY could be in order but I also did a little searching and found this one from Calvin Klein for only $19.99 on clearance.

Calvin Klein Gunmetal Chain Belt $19.99

Admittedly I like the thicker chains of the $195 Curb Chain belt best.  This DIY is calling my name.  I'm sure I could find some cool chains at the craft or the hardware store.

First Lady of Frugal

There are designers throwing themselves at the White House right and left, dying to get a chance to dress First Lady Michelle Obama. She definitely wears her share of designer duds but she also knows how to find great items that are affordable for the average woman.

GAP Dress as a Tunic $29.99

H & M Dress

Converse Sneakers

White House Black Market Dress

She could also make sure that she is never seen in the same item twice but that's not her style.  She knows what flatters her body and sticks with what she likes and what looks good. Remixing is a key foundation of her wardrobe.

Dress with a cardigan and without

Belt with two different cardigans - Dressed Up and Down

One sweater two outfits

One sweater two ways - Reversed

Another key to her style is simplicity with the addition of great accessories. She loves basic cardigans paired with an interesting belt. She knows that pins and jewelry can liven up any outfit.

For someone with any and all fashion at her disposal, it's refreshing that Mrs. Obama chooses to mix high and low together.  She's had negative comments on everything from her bare arms to wearing shorts on a family vacation to the Grand Canyon.  She takes it all in stride, knows what flatters her figure, and stays true to her own personal style. We could all take that lesson.

Animal Attraction - It's All Leopard

In looking for ways to spice up my wardrobe, you can never go wrong with a little animal print.  My hands down favorite is leopard.

I have the following on my list of leopard items to add to my wardrobe, in no particular order:

• shoes
• belt
• faux fur coat

There affordable options out there. They are easy to find with a little searching.  Here are my picks.

The Merona Marlis Sliver Wedge, $24.99 at Target.

The hair calf belt from Talbots, $44.00.

Leopard print, faux fur coat, $299.00 from Fabulous Furs.  This is great coat but the price is a little higher than I would like. I'm still hunting for the best coat.

Tighten Your Belt

We all need to tighten our belts this season, economically and fashionably. Thanks to the influence of designers and my favorite summer movie, "Sex and the City", belts are back in a big way. If you are like me, you still have belts in the back or your closet or in a drawer that you've saved from years past. If you don't, there are lots of economical choices available.

Using a belt (an inexpensive accessory), you can change the look of an outfit. You can give it polish, give it edge, and bring in some color. Choose thin, wide, studded, feminine, corseted, anything you like.

Costume designer Patricia Field used a single belt in three different looks during the movie. She used a studded belt she designed to spice up a floral dress and a sexy secretary look. She gave traditionally demure looks an edge. She also used the same belt over a coat to define SJP's waist and add some interest to an all black ensemble.

Sex and the City: The Movie

The belt Patricia used in the movie is available on her website for $120. It's a great belt but I set out to find some less expensive options. Hot Topic is selling a similar version for $19.00. If the silver studs are a little too punk for your style. Target has a more subtle option with black studs for $11.69.

If you are waist challenged and need to add some curves, a belt is a quick a simple solution. Diane von Furstenberg used belts throughout her Fall 2008 show. She used belts with jackets, in a layered look and belts with dresses to enhance a simple silhouette.

Diane von Furstenberg, Fall 2008

You can execute this look in a similar fashion by using a thin belt over a blazer and leaving it slightly open. It would work well for the office. Diane von Furstenberg showed another great day look using a dress and combining that with the glove trend.

Diane von Furstenberg, Fall 2008

Just go to the accessories section of your favorite store and select a couple of options. If you are planning to use them over a coat be sure to go up a few inches to allow for volume. Whatever you like or consider your personal style, the belt trend is a fun and inexpensive way to update your fall wardrobe.

photo credits: Sex and the City: the movie and nymag.com