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.

Frugal Fashion Friday - GOLD Rush under $50

Normally gold isn't my first choice but this week I spied the sweater below and then did a little window shopping on the Stella & Dot website.  There are some amazing gold pieces in their new collection.  Since it's Friday, I thought I'd stick with our frugal theme and find some great gold items under $50.

Cross body bags are a weekend staple for me.  At under $15 this one from Target is perfect.  These statement earrings from Stella and Dot are amazing! They're gold but I love that it's almost an accent to the creamy stones and the rhinestones. Over the summer I scored a pair of sunglasses almost exactly like these from Urban Outfitters. They are a fun alternative to my standard black frames. The gold beads of this Stella and Dot necklace look like stones and I love that it compliments the Foundation bracelet (with tiny green stones) without looking too matchy matchy. This green and gold cocktail ring from Stella and Dot is equal parts vintage and cool.  All of the Stella and Dot pieces work well together.  The chunky heel and cap toe of these blue suede pumps make them look like a pair my Mom owned in the 60's.  The bright blue is fun.  I've been on the hunt for a new iPhone case.  These used combined or alone create five different looks.  The cut out gold cover is so sophisticated.

Searching for all of these fun items has given me a new appreciation for gold.  Do you love gold?

Happy Friday Real Girls!

DIY Inspiration - feathers, tulle and skulls OH MY!

I warned you it was a DIY week. I'm always collecting DIY inspiration. I pull images from magazines, save photos on my phone and pin ideas on Pinterest. Creativity is always running through my veins and my head. It's impossible to turn it off. Lately I've been inspired by all sorts of things.

 An easy and amazing way to update vintage clip earrings.  The soft fabric gives already dramatic earrings even more pop.

 Because we are using lots of peacock feathers in our wedding, I've been collecting ideas for boutonnieres and bouquets. Curling the feathers makes them even more striking, if that's possible.  I found this tutorial with tips on curling feathers.

A fun, easy and inexpensive sweatshirt idea.  I just need a cheap sweatshirt, stencil or a stamp and some paint.  You know I'm obsessed with skulls.

We're incorporating lots of music and rock n' roll touches into our wedding.  I've been collecting lyrics to incorporate into the wedding decor.

A tulle skirt has been on my list for ages.  I definitely need to make one immediately.  This post by Cotton and Curls even has a pattern! Now I have no excuses, except time.

As part of my new year, new exercise, I've started taking yoga classes.  This upcycled yoga mat carrier is genius.  I definitely have both of the things I need for this project!  I need to get rid of my old bras anyway.

Have you had any creative inspirations lately?

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?

Olympic Fever

Olympic fever has hit our house.  The TV is on Olympic broadcasts every second we are home.  I look forward to every Olympic year.  I swam competitively on the local swim team as a kid but nothing close to Olympic caliber.  I love cheering for the USA and getting into the spirit.  It's contagious. Of course I had to throw in the fashion aspect of the games.  Olympic gear is everywhere.  I picked a few of my favorites.

Click on the pictures above for buying details.

It was hard to choose favorites but I love a fun t-shirt and these fit the bill.  I can cheer on Team USA in style. This jacket is fantastic. It's crazy expensive so this is just a wish list item.  It's the same jacket the athletes are wearing on the medal stand. The collection wouldn't be complete without jewelry.  Olympic pins are highly sought after collectibles and I really like the bracelets available.  Too many fun options to choose from. Those gorgeous earrings were created by a ADAMS fine jewelry in Newton, MA, specifically for gymnast Aly Raisman.  The jeweler promised Aly that if the ladies brought home the team gold he would create earrings for each of the members of the team. He's keeping his promise.

If you're like me and would love to be in London but can't, check out an insider view of the Olympics on Hilary Phelps' website.  Yes that Phelps.  Hilary is Michael's proud and accomplished (in her own right) older sister. She is posting photos and cool details from the Olympics.You can also follow her on twitter at @HilaryPhelps.


My posts the last couple weeks have been thin.  Since getting back from vacation life has been crazy. Work has been busy and then my car died.  It's fixable if I wanted to put almost $2,000 into it, but I've owned my car for many years (it's a 2000 Toyota Celica). It has 225,000 miles on it and I've put quite a bit of money into it over the last year.  We reluctantly decided it was time for a new car. {msL} just finished paying off her car and we would have been car payment free.  It wasn't an easy choice. Deciding what we wanted was the first order of business.  I really wanted a sports car (like the one I was giving up) but that's not the what we needed. We needed a four door, four seater car, with room for our pups.  After lots of research and debating we chose a Kia Soul. Then came the negotiations.  UGH!  After lots of stress, we got a great car, for a good price and I'm thrilled. Can you believe that I'm 44 and I've never owned a brand new car? I've always bought used. With the down economy, dealers are offering great incentives, prices, and interest rates.  New it is. I'm a bit giddy about the car and am happy with my decision.  Car payments here I come.

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. 

Nothing About Dresses - Fashion Trends from the Golden Globes

Lots of people are talking about the fashion and dress trends from Sunday night's Golden Globes. The trends I noticed had nothing to do with dresses.  The items that really stuck out for me were the hair and jewelry trends of the night.

• Sleek hair
• Statement earrings (not necklaces)
• Headbands

Sleek Hair
Messy updos and curls have been all the rage for the last few awards seasons.  This year, sleek styles ruled. I saw everything from long and straight to ponys, chignons and faux hawks.

Statement Earrings
Statement earrings ruled the carpet this year.  There were a few ladies showing off beautiful necklaces but many eschewed a necklace for stunning earrings.

 

 

 

 

Headbands
I was a bit surprised to see quite a few ladies donning headbands.  In addition to the celebs there were several dates that I spotted who were also embracing the headband trend.

 

 

Birthday Rewind via Instagram

I took the day off yesterday (from work and the blog) to celebrate my birthday.  It was a wonderfully relaxing day with lots of fun and surprises.





From top left - Birthday flowers from my Mom, My Birthday outfit (sequin skirt and moto boots),
Tahitian pearl earrings (a gift from my Honey), Deep fried Deviled Eggs (Bday dinner appetizer),
Amazing chain necklace (a gift from my sister), Birthday pie (I love chocolate pie!)





Note: pics taken via Instagram app. Follow me - realgirlrunway

Easy Weekend with Flair ala JewelMint

When I was younger I would haul ridiculously large suitcases with me for weekend getaways.  I'd take a ton of clothes and only wear a few items. Years of travelling, hauling my own suitcase and TSA restrictions have turned me into a traveller that can pack for a weekend in a small carry-on bag. That means easy to pack items, double duty clothes and accessories to spice up my looks.

You all know my love and obsession with JewelMint. I love their jewelry. Every month I have to decide how many of the new pieces I can afford.  When my friends at JewelMint offered me the chance to choose three of their amazing pieces to style for a weekend trip, I jumped at the chance. Inspired by the Egyptian influences in some of the July pieces, I picked a ring, earrings and a necklace.  The pieces I chose were the Scarab ring, Isis earrings, and the Farrah necklace.  One of my favorite pieces of jewelry is a vintage scarab bracelet given to me by my dad and the Scarab ring is a modern take on that bracelet.

When choosing the items to style, I wanted pieces that could be worn together or separately and I love the possibilities in the Farrah necklace.  I styled three looks using all three pieces. Since I received my new jewelry I've worn them toether but I've also worn these stand out pieces alone at various times. 

For a day time look I paired a simple white tee with a flowy skirt, scarf and sandals. The JewelMint pieces compliment the look and give a little bit of an Egyptian touch.

Tee - Old Navy, Skirt - Lane Bryant, Scarf - Goodwill, Sandals - Simply Vera Vera Wang for Kohl's



Combining a halter style tankini, a sarong and the JewelMint pieces, I created a chic look for a pool party or the beach. I decided to wear the Farrah necklace as a bracelet to give the look a bit of a different flair.



Takini - Target, Sarong - Beach shop in Key West





Farrah Necklace as a bracelet, Scarab Ring - c/o JewelMint



  

Inspired by the caftans of Morocco I chose a comfortable maxi dress for an evening look. I added some strappy wedges and the JewelMint pieces but tied the Farrah necklace as a bit of a choker.

Farrah Necklace as a choker

I have a special offer for you my dear readers.  Do you love these JewelMint pieces or want to see more? Compliments of my friends at JewelMint, they are offering you 50% off of your first piece of JewelMint jewelry, for one week only! 

You'll take a quick style quiz and then you'll get personalized recommendations from JewelMint stylists. They have great new pieces each month. Every piece of jewelry is just $29.99 which includes beautiful packaging and free shipping.

Click on the link and when you check out, just enter the code below.

http://jmnt.co/q0Od8i

RealGirlRunway50

Code expires: 8/25/2011

Using easy to pack pieces and great jewelry, I created three outfits for a weekend trip.  The beauty is that some items can be changed up depending on your plans. How do you pack for a weekend getaway?

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!

Spring Picks for the Budget Girl (part 3)

Oh the joy of accessories. My heart beats fast, just walking past all of the jewelry, bags, belts, and scarves. My obsession with sunglasses is a bit crazy. Every girl needs great accessories to complete an outfit. You can change the whole tone of an outfit by changing the accessories. A simple little black dress (LBD) can go from day to night with just a simple switch.

All of these items can be found for budget prices.

TOP SPRING PICKS
1. a solid color flowy maxi skirt
2. wide leg jeans
3. anything 70's inspired
4. biker jacket (leather or faux leather, whatever fits your budget)
5. a sheer sweater (for layering)
6. Neutrals in pale tans or blushes (pants or skirt)
7. A Breton striped top
8. Bold color tops and bottoms (vary this depending on your life)
9. a pair of neutral booties that can be dressed up or down, heel height is a preference
10.White pants, skirt, or dress

EXTRAS
1. cat eye sunglasses
2. big bangle bracelets
3. anything rose gold
4. obi belts or wide sashes
5. colorful scarves
6. lady-like bags


To view the buying information for the options, click on the picture. It will take you to a site where you can click on each item and get the details.

There are lots of spots for stylish and budget friendly sunglasses. I recommend checking Target, Marshalls, TJ Maxx and other low priced retailers in addition to the net.

Thrift stores can be treasure troves for jewelry especially things like bangles. I found some great bangles at Goodwill recently for just a few dollars. Be sure to check your local thrift store.

Fine rose gold is crazy expensive and definitely not budget friendly. If you are searching the net or a site, be sure to check for "rose tone" as well as "rose gold".  The options below are in rose tone metal and rose gold over silver.

The next entry will contain the last of the list.