Frugal Fashion Friday - Fall Trends On a Budget

If you're looking to add some fall trends to your closet, there are good bargains to be had. Today I've picked two of my favorites and found some great deals on those trends.

Click the photos above for buying information.

I love capes. They are versatile toppers that are more classic than trendy. I prefer one that is a light to medium weight fabric. Those styles work best when you want to layer. The only drawback I find is for ladies who prefer a handbag that goes over their shoulder. You'll have to carry a shoulder bag in your hand or place it under your cape. I personally find capes perfect for sporting a fun day clutch or a short handle satchel.

Of the finds above, my favorite is the cape jacket in the bottom right. It's technically called a cape blazer or cape jacket. It's by Vince Camuto and it can be found a Nordstrom (and it's on sale!). If you use ebates, today is a great day to buy this fantastic jacket. The cash back percentage is doubled today for Nordstrom! If you don't use ebates, why not? It's so easy, all you have to do is go to the ebates site before you shop online. Click on the link for your favorite store and then shop. In a few months, they will send you a check!  No catch. The retailers partner with ebates and provide rebates as an incentive to shop at their stores. There are thousands of stores. You can sign up here.

Click here for buying information.

Leopard is one of my favorites. It may sound a bit crazy but it's a neutral. The basic colors of leopard, tan, brown and black, work well with every color. It's versatile, fun and a statement piece. If you aren't sure you want to take the plunge and wear a jacket, or blouse, try a clutch or shoes. I'm betting once you try it out, you'll want more. I already own the slip on sneakers in the upper right hand corner. I also own a coat, a bag, some pumps and the almost new wedges I just scored at Goodwill.

Just a little searching and you can add some fall trends to your wardrobe for a bargain.

 

Happy Shopping Real Girls!

Inspiration - Fall Denim Styling

I've always been a jeans girl. I love denim and I'm loving that it's not just for casual wear anymore. I love dressing up denim and making it look sophisticated. I spent some time over the weekend, looking for lots of denim inspiration. I found some great options to style a the fall trends I told you about last week, this time with denim.

 

Cape and Denim

Denim and Fur (I prefer faux.)

I have to confess, I might love this red fur coat more than I love the whole look but isn't it fantastic?!

Denim and Leopard

Denim and a Wrap Coat



 

A few more for inspiration...

Denim, Booties, and a Skull

Denim and Tweed

Frugal Fashion Friday - Shopping My Closet for Fall 2014 Fashion Trends

There are trend lists everywhere lately. Frankly, I believe those lists must be taken with a grain of salt. Not every trend is great and not every trend works for every person. There are eight fall trends that I think could be good and stylish options for most women. They will work regardless of your shape, size or budget. In the next few posts, I'm going to talk about these trends and how you can wear them in real life. I'll start with some items that I already own. I will be saving some cash by revisiting items that I haven't worn in a little while. Some I wore just last season but others have been stashed in my closet.

 

CAPE

My Gray Wool Cape

My sweet and talented mom made this cape for me three years ago. I love it for its versatility and timeless look. Plus, my mom made it for me!

FUR (faux for me)

 



I love this vest! I debated between this black and silver style and solid black. I'm glad I chose this version. It's so unique. I can wear this vest when it starts to get chilly and into the cold months, by layering it with lighter pieces. It's fun and add some interest and sophistication to any outfit. I'm a huge fan of fur collars. This navy version is short enough to be worn with a sweater all day or as a scarf with my coats. My sister calls it my muppet collar. It always gets noticed.

 

OVERSIZED WRAP COAT

I love that this coat is loose and doesn't have buttons. It's my go to coat when I want to look polished but still feel warm and comfortable. The wool is warm but surprisingly it isn't itchy at all. J. Jill no longer makes this style but there are similar versions available. I will get lots of wear out of it for years to come.

LEOPARD

 



Ever since I received this coat as a birthday gift, it's been in heavy rotation. I love it with jeans and a sweater but also over a dress for work. I scored this bag a Loehman's last year. The size and shapre are perfect for me and I got it for a steal. My leopard pumps are my go to pair when I want to boost an outfit. They're classic but also a statement. If you aren't comfortable wearing a coat or jacket, go for accessories and start slow.

I can't wait to mix all of these items back into my regular fall outfits. They are all great pieces that will be welcome. Over the next week, I will be providing links to some affordable options for you as well as ways to style the trends.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Most Versatile Outerwear

The DC area is facing it's first cold snap this weekend.  Temps are going down to the 30's and we may even get snow flurries.  My Mom just brought me a beautiful gray wool cape that she's been working for me.  I'm so excited to wear it this weekend. This cape was a gift to me, last Christmas.  I picked out the pattern and the fabric and she created a beautiful cape that I will be wearing for years. I started thinking about how versatile capes can be.  To me they are the perfect piece of outwear.  Those tops and sweaters with dolman sleeves don't fit well under a fitted coat.  Blouses with ruffled fronts can be crushed by outerwear.  You can throw on a cape with anything and everything.  It's a great topper for weekend errands or an evening bonfire.  You can wear it with a party dress without worries about wrinkles and creases.  It's the perfect layering piece.

Cape - made for me by my Mom, Shirt - thrifted, Jeans - Lane Bryant,
Shoes - Ferragamo (thrifted), Faux Fur Collar - Lori Goldstein QVC, Rings - JewelMint

If you aren't a fan of the loose silhouette versions. No worries, there are also some great options with belts that can be tied loosely to accentuate your waist. Either way it's a forgiving silhouette that's also stylish.  And dare I say, it's also comfortable.

I've seen some beautiful capes that are very pricey. There are amazing options, under $100.  I've even spied a few on my thrift store trips. Try camel, gray or black for a classic look. Bright red will be a standout. Plaid or stripes can lend versatility. Keep your neck warm with a layered scarf or faux fur collar. The fabric options are endless, wool, fleece, crepe, and knit are all making appearances.  There are options for every style and body type.

Caped Crusader by realgirlrunway featuring a cape jacket

Will you be adding a cape to your fall/winter wardrobe?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Five Ways to Update

I haven't been so happy to see a Friday in a long time. It's been a hectic week and I need some rest. I couldn't let you all down and fail to post today.  I have this little gem and I'll be posting the winners of the JewelMint contest a little later.

I would love to buy all of the latest items and cool trends each season but that's never possible.  My budget isn't that large. That's why I hold onto so many clothes and accessories. I have a terrible time getting rid of anything because as soon as I do, I want to wear it again. Even though I'm limited and recycling is great, I love to buy a few new items.  I thought I'd pick some of my favorite trends for fall. I'm sure you all don't have unlimited budgets either. With these five items you can give your fall outfits an update without breaking the bank.

 

Capes

Look at any magazine and capes are everywhere this fall.  I love them because they are easy to wear, very forgiving and totally versatile.  You can find them in every color, fabric and style.  The belted version looks best on me because it defines my waist.  I also love the loose flowy version for weekends as a great jacket alternative. Luckily for me, my amazingly talented Mom hand made a cape for me as a Christmas gift.  I can't wait to wear it and show it to all of you.

 

Loafers

Heeled or low, loafers are a preppy staple.  There are so many different styles.  If you pick a pair with color or in a metallic, it will stand out and give a modern take. Loafers with heels and platforms are everywhere.  I picked a couple of flat loafers because I love them and think there are fun even without the heel.

 

Lady Like Bags

Bags with lady like style were also a spring trend. If you got one, then you are a step ahead.  I found a couple of vintage bags at thrift and resale shops for a steal.  Select a version that fits your life.  Lady like bags come in all shapes and sizes. I like ones with top handles and a detachable strap.  For me, it takes the structured bag and makes it easier to use on a daily basis.

Python

Bags, belts and shoes in python print can update your look with something fresh but also timeless.  Adding an accessory with this animal print can be a standout without being over the top. Python is exotic but it also mixes well with your darker fall color options. You can wear it with black or brown. There are even options in dyed, bright colored python if you are looking for bold.

 

Mixed Metals

Mixing metals like mixing black and brown used to be taboo.  Now it's an attention getting fun way to change up your accessories.  There are fun options in every type of jewelry.  You don't even have to buy something new.  Mix the gold, silver, rose gold, or gunmetal items you already own.  Stack some bracelets. Pile on several necklaces. Wear more than one ring. It's another way to be a little bold in a small way, without going too far out on a limb.

 

These accessories can give you a fun and budget friendly update.  Which items are you going to try?

Fall Trends 2011

I know it seems so early to be thinking of fall trends. We just started shopping for cute sandals. Fashion waits for no girl, even Real Girls.  On Tuesday night I attended the Fashion Group International's presentation of fall trends for 2011.  It was great to see and discuss things that are coming up for fall. I reported on the event for GalTime.  To read the full post, click here.

My personal trend favorites for fall are:

• Capes
• Pleats
• Colored Fur (the faux kind)
• Structured Bags

Fall Trend Picks 2011 RGR by Real Girl Runway