Summer Dreams

Like many east coast residents, I am so ready for winter to end and summer to begin. I'm a warm weather girl at heart and can't wait for cute summery shoes, evenings dining al fresco, and sunglasses. Maybe it's wishful shopping but my purchases lately have been all about warm weather.

clockwise from top left - 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 

All Dressed Up clutch - I love a big clutch. This one is 9"x13", which is perfect for me. It's a pouch, so it's easy to carry and I love the cheeky saying imprinted on both sides. It will be fun for day or evening.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick in Orchid - Fuchsia is always a go to color for me when it comes to lipstick. This new line from Revlon doesn't contain wax, it comes in lots of colors (Orchid is my fave) and I really like the creamy texture.

Silver Brow Bar sunglasses - Since the designer version was out of my price range, I snagged this look for less pair on Amazon. I also love the white and gold version.

Shay Lace Up Flats - I've been eying these flats for over a month now. I could decide if I should spend the money but I go to the site a few times a week to make sure they are still available. For some time they were only available in black and the gray version was just released. I had to snatch them up before they were gone.

Kaia Pendant Necklace - The Moroccan look of this necklace by Stella and Dot is perfect for summer. I picture it with a flowy, white top or a colorful sundress. The photo does not do it justice. The stones have a opalescent quality to them.

Metal graphic tee - I'm a sucker for a funny graphic tee. This one is so me. I'm a rocker girl to my core but I have a soft side. This tee will be a fun addition to my summer wardrobe or great under my tuxedo jacket for evening.

What items are on your spring/summer wish list?

What I Want - Fall 2014

For the last few seasons I've created a board on Pinterest and saved my must have items for the seasons. These are the items I really want and are on the top of my list. They will be the first items to get my fashion budget.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

Matte Wine Lipstick - I'm loving matte lips right now and as you know I'm a huge fan of the Maybelline Color Sensational line. They just came out with some of the colors in a matte finish and I love the wine shade, Divine Wine.

Tweed Moto Jacket - Moto jackets are so versatile. I have traditional leather options. This tweed version adds a polished twist to the tough moto silhouette.

Fun Graphic Tees - Graphic t-shirts with cool sayings and phrases are on my must have list. When I spied this t-shirt, I had to have it. A shirt that says, I EAT GLITTER FOR BREAKFAST is so me.

Pointed Toe Loafers - Heels are great but I constantly find myself gravitating toward my flats and low heel options. The pointed toes bring more sophistication to these loafers.

Leopard Clutch - Leopard is a fall trend but I've had an oversize statement clutch on my must list for several seasons and haven't found one that's perfect. This one from etsy is fantastic.

Faux Leather Midi - I've been hunting for a midi length leather or faux leather skirt for a while now. Short skater skirts are easy to find but those don't work for me. This length is perfect. It's on the top of my list.

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.

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.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Holographic Trend

Maybe it's the 80's child in me but ever since I spied a pair of holographic sandals, I knew I'd add them to my spring/summer wardrobe. For a one season trend like this one, there is no reason to spend a fortune. I found these cute items for a steal, including a great pair of wedge sandals.

Click the picture above for buying information.

Do you like the holographic trend?

DIY - Some of my favorites

I've spent the last few days getting things ready for our big wedding DIY weekend. I realized late last night that I didn't have a blog post for today.  Instead of not posting, I decided to give you all a post showing you some of my personal favorite DIY projects. 

Chain Detail Jacket - I love that just some craft store chain can elevate a jacket.  It was one of my early DIY projects and one of my favorites. I wear this jacket often.

Duck Tape Clutch - The reason I love this DIY is because you can use any color or style of duct tape you like.  You can make it your own.

Rock Lyric Tee - Inexpensive t-shirt, stick on letters, spray paint, and your favorite rock lyric are all you need to create this t-shirt. It's a fun and cool addition to your casual wardrobe.

Silver Oxfords - If you have a pair of old oxfords or can grab a pair at the thrift store, you can create these shoes in just a few hours. I used silver but you could use any color you like. Neon pink would be fantastic.

Minty Shades - Nail polish as paint? Yes! The mint green polish elevated these shades from boring to wow and this entire project was finished in about an hour.

Safety Pin Necklace - I love DIY because I can create a designer style necklace for $900 less than the original.  Maybe it's my life long love of punk rock looks but safety pins as jewelry are fantastic.

Metallic Skull - Home decor DIYs are the best.  I get bored easily and love changing up the accents in our home.  A $1 plastic Halloween skull becomes a cool home accent with a little spray paint.

I hope these favorites of mine inspire you to get creative.  I'd love to hear about any projects you create.

Moment of Lust - Alexander McQueen Union Jack Skull Clutch

My skull obsession continues.  I love this clutch from Alexander McQueen.  It's both quintessential McQueen and British. The colors are great and the skull adds something special. The McQueen version costs $1545!  Definitely not doable.  We could take a big chunk out of our wedding catering budget with that money. So of course I went in search of a less expensive alternative.

I found the solution by doing a bit of searching.  One of the retailers on Amazon.com is selling a clutch that is almost identical for only $50!  That's a savings of $1495.  Well not really a savings seeing that I would either find a budget friendly alternative or I'd go without.

I'm thrilled!

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Skulls

The punk, rock n' roll vibe has always been something I've loved.  Lately, I'm more obsessed with skulls than ever.  I can't help it. They are fun and creepy all at the same time. You can incorporate them in unexpected ways without looking like you are going to a Misfits show.  I wear my skull ring and bracelet to work with my pencils skirts and blazers.  I know that wouldn't work in every office but honestly, most people don't notice and I love wearing them.

There are lots of budget options but I had to throw in some Alexander McQueen shoes and my favorite Wendy Brandes ring.  Click on the pictures above to get all of the details. I'm in love with the Butler & Wilson clutch.  They have an amazing collection of crystal skull pieces.  There was no way to include them all. The DIY skull cut out t-shirt is on my to do list.  Such an easy way to wear a skull.  I'm sure people will do lots of double takes.

What's your latest obsession?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Bordeaux

The beauty of the bordeaux trend is that it looks great on all skin types.  It's a flattering color. There are so many items to be found in this rich, deep red.  You can take your pick. Select a little with a scarf, shoes, or a top or go all out with a dress, or skirt.  Try a hint of bordeaux with deep red lips or nails. It's simple to make this trend work for you.  I'll be embracing the bordeaux trend every weekend during football season.  My favorite team, the Washington Redskins, is all about the burgundy and gold.  If you still own a vintage Etienne Aigner bag or shoes, now is the time to pull them out.

Express Ruffle top / Asos Peplum top / Ann Taylor skinny pants / ASOS lace skirt / Chinese Laundry platform heels / Elie Tahari smoking slippers / ASOS cross body bag / ASOS studded clutch purse / Vigotti ballet flats / Asos Textured Knit Snood / Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain, Crush / L'Oreal Polish Haute Couture Red

I selected a few items that are perfect for fall.  They are an affordable way to embrace the trend without blowing your budget.  You can select an item or two and still have money left to try out the other fall trends, I'll be featuring this week.  Go girly with a lace skirt or stay menswear comfy with smoking slippers.  A simple top is an easy way to wear bordeaux.  Just throw it on with your favorite jeans. Work or weekend, everyone looks great in bordeaux.

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!

Frugal Fashion Friday - Pattern Mixing

A couple weeks ago I scored a fantastic deal at the Talbots Outlet.  I found a pair of paisley ankle pants that fit me perfectly.  I LOVE them and have been finding tons of ways to wear them. Earlier this week I spied a cute gingham shirt at Old Navy.  I immediately thought of pairing with my blue and purple paisley pants. As luck would have it today's Friday's Fancies challenge was to create an outfit using gingham.  It's kismet!

I've created a fun outfit for less than $300. The shoes are the priciest item, almost half the cost of the entire outfit. They can be found at Neiman Marcus Last Call (lastcall.com). If you sign up for their email alerts, you'll get notifications about sales. Last month there was a flash sale and I scored them for $55!

The pattern mixing gives the outfit a bold feel.  The clutch is an extra pop of color and it has a chain handle to make it more versatile.  This ensemble is my ideal weekend outfit.  Stylish, comfortable and easy to wear. The jewelry is simple but stands out and the oxfords and wayfarers are classic.  A gingham shirt is on my list now.  That means some weekend shopping is in order.

One Jacket - Two Graduation Options

On Friday we are going to a graduation and I'm trying to decide what to wear.  I want to look chic but also be comfortable since there could be lots of walking and there will be lots of sitting. A few years ago, I bought a white blazer from Target. It was a great purchase and I love wearing it all summer.  I thought I'd pair that white blazer with two different outfits and get your opinion on which one I should wear.

Eddie Bauer Stretch Cotton Twill Blazer (Sizes 2-20)

A dress...

Click on the photo above to see where to buy.

I already own most of the pieces (or similar pieces) to this ensemble.  I love pairing the flowy dress and flower with tough jewelry.  The school's colors are blue and gold, so the dress will fit right in. Of course I had to add my favorite necklace from Stella & Dot, the Femme Fatale.

Floral pants...

Click on the photo above to see where to buy.

My floral pants from Asos arrived in the mail late yesterday.  I haven't had a chance to try them on but I'm hoping they will look great. I have a top that is similar to this one but I'm also considering a solid top.  I love the striped top with floral pants look. I showed you an example of this look in a past post, via Alison of Wardrobe Oxygen.  The chunky Nouvelle Ring from Stella & Dot is a great addition to the outfit.



Which outfit do you like best?

Virtual Shopping - Talbots

There are two qualities I love in a store, quality merchandise at a reasonable price and items that come in all sizes (petite to plus).  There is nothing worse than finding a great item and then discovering that it doesn't come in your size.  I hate that!  Those two qualities are the main reasons I LOVE Talbots.  They have beautiful clothing at reasonable prices.  Sometimes, like this past weekend, you can find amazing bargains.  Like the skirt and top I got for 75% off.  I only paid $25 for both items!!

DIY - Neon Clutch

As you know a fun day clutch has been the object of my desire for some time now.  All of the neon color combos have been calling to me.  The other day, as I was crawling home in traffic, I got a DIY brainstorm.  I love it when that happens!  It struck me that I already had the makings of a great neon clutch.  I just needed a few additional supplies.

Supplies
Two rolls of neon Duck Tape (I chose Neon Pink and Blaze Orange)  $3.49 each  (with tons left over)
                                                                                                          $2.00 used less than 1/3 of each roll
Zipper envelope (Up from Target)                                                       $3.24
Gold chain                                                                                          $2.24
Jewelry Findings (gold lobster clasp, jump rings)                                  $2.24  (more left for other projects)
                                                                                                           $  .50  used one clasp, 5 jump rings
                                                                                                           $7.98
                                                                                                       

I measured the envelope and then cut pieces of tape to cover each side.  I trimmed them on the edges and folded them into the seams.

Once the first side was covered, I took the piece at the bottom of the clutch and folded it over to the other side of the clutch.

I continued on side two but also added a handle on the second side.  I created the handle by cutting three pieces of tape of equal length. I folded each piece in thirds creating a smooth, sticky free strip.  Then I braided them together.  I placed the ends under the tape on the clutch base.  Then secured them with an extra piece of tape on the top.

I also decided to add a chain handle to create a hands free option for this fun clutch.  I attached a chain to the inside of the clutch. I also created a hook on the outside at the seam. I cut a tiny slit on the seam and secured the chain by feeding it through and taping it down.

The chain can be dropped inside the clutch when not in use and pulled out and attached when I need a shoulder strap.

The clutch turned out better than I'd hoped.  I love the side handle that I decided to add.  The addition makes it easy to carry. I wore it to the NOVA Fashion Week Luxe Lifestyle event.  A few ladies asked if I'd make them one. The beauty is, this DIY is so easy, anyone can do it.

Fashion and Style Quote of the Day (#8)

"I think there is beauty in everything. What ‘normal’ people would perceive as ugly, I can usually see something of beauty in it." — Alexander McQueen

 

 

The world lost an amazing talent and visionary when Alexander McQueen took his own life on February 11, 2010.  His thinking that you can see beauty in things that many find ugly or strange is a great lesson.  I think beauty can be found in all sorts of places. I have long been in love with his Gothic style and use of skulls in his designs. I've been trying to recreate his knuckle clutch and I'm still working on it.
 

The coolest cuff links ever!

Feathers and more feathers, WOW!

The details in this ruffle dress are amazing.

You might recognize the peacock dress above from Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1. Fleur Delacour wore it as her wedding dress when she married William Weasley.  I personally love this dress.  I think it would be an amazing wedding dress and I may have to take some cues from it when making my own.

Lest you think that McQueen only designs gowns and red carpet attire, here is a dress a Real Girl could wear to an event.  A Real Girl with a huge fashion budget, I might add.

 

The house of McQueen also created Kate Middleton's dress for the royal wedding. Sarah Burton from the house of McQueen and protege of Alexander was the designer. 

 

 

Do you love McQueen? 

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... 

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.

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

Virtual Shopping - ASOS Weekend Outfit

One of my favorite past times is virtual shopping.  I look over my favorite sites and create outfits and my virtual orders. Sometimes I have the money to spend but most times I don't.  Earlier this week I was doing a little virtual shopping on one of my favorite sites, ASOS.  The site has items in all sizes and since they are based in the UK the items are fashion forward. When shopping I came across this great comfy sweater and built an outfit around it.

Sweater, $25
ASOS reversible pants, $29
ASOS metallic shoes, $27
ASOS clutch handbag, $31
ASOS skull earrings, $9.85
Asos Oversized Plaited Cord Wristband With Pleated Metal Fastening, $14

The skinny burgundy pants balance out the chunky sweater.  The loafers are flat and my pick for a weekend of errands but you could throw on a pair of heels for dinner out. The chord bracelet and skull earrings funk up the basic sweater and pants.  The clutch gives it all an extra pop of color. This looks like the perfect weekend outfit to me.

If I did decide to buy this outfit, I could score everything for $116!  Even on a budget that's pretty great.