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.

Moment of Lust - Vince Brigham Booties

In my mind, the Vince Brigham booties, are the perfect addition to my fall wardrobe. I am obsessed. My bank account however, is laughing at me. They are great shoes and I love them but let's face it, they're trendy. My philosophy is never to pay full price or the amount of a car payment on a trend item. I want that money to be well spent. If I'm spending that much, I must be able to wear it for years to come. Of course that doesn't ease my desire for a pair of black peep toe booties. I knew there were some great alternatives out there.

Vince Brigham Booties

Chinese Laundry Bizarre Booties

Breckelles BE37 Booties

The Chinese Laundry booties are a good alternative. They are leather and have a great heel. They also have an ankle strap, which is part of what I love about the Vince pair. At $350 less than my lust pair, they are a great option. The Breckelles are the bargain option. They aren't leather but they do have the full wrap look of the Vince pair. I'm definitely leaning toward the Chinese Laundry pair but I'm still looking.

Fall Trends from the Runway - Fall RTW 2014

New York Fashion Week started last Wednesday. As we roll into fall, the designers are showing spring fashions. The fashion industry must be a season ahead in order to produce and stock the items you'll be purchasing in the spring. The must have items this fall were actually showcased by the designers at the shows this past February. My favorite part of fall and winter are the amazing coats and jackets but this year I'm also loving the new cuts in pants.



Sleeveless Blazer - 3.1 Phillip Lim

Cape Jacket - Christian Siriano

Oversized Coat (love the Mohair) - Christian Siriano

Colored Fur (Faux Fur only for me) - DKNY

Flared Coat - Victoria Beckham

Oversized Blazer - Michael Kors

Chunky Sweaters and Wide Leg Pants - Michael Kors

Culottes - Tibi

Of course these items are styled for the runway. Most of us would wear them differently in our daily lives. The perfect example is the chunky sweater and wide leg pants at Michael Kors. I love both of them but I wouldn't wear them together. Oversized items on top and bottom would make me look frumpy, not chic. I'd balance each one by wearing it with a fitted item. The chunky sweater with some ankle pants and the wide leg pants with a fitted blouse.


All Runway Photos by NYMag.com

Inspiration - White Transition

We are still in the heat of summer but all of the stores are having summer sales to make way for fall merchandise. This started me thinking about items I'm wearing often, now and how I can wear them into the fall.  My white jeans and white blazer have become staples this summer. I don't subscribe to "the fashion rule" of no white after labor day. You know me, I'm a rule breaker. These ladies are great inspiration for wearing my jeans and blazer into the fall.

You could use these same cues to transition a white skirt or dress.

photo credits (from top to bottom): eat sleep denim, Lady Lazlo, eat sleep denim, Grasie Mercedes, The Versastyle

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.

Passport to Baltimore Fashion Event and Giveaway! - GIVEAWAY CLOSED

 

This giveaway is CLOSED.



This coming Sunday, September 8, the Junior League of Baltimore is hosting its first annual Passport to Baltimore shopping card event!

 

 

Sunday, September 8, 2013
12:00pm - 2:00pm
Green Spring Station Baltimore, Maryland

The event will showcase the latest fall fashions, there will be light refreshments, salon and spa mini treatments and discounts at participating boutiques throughout the day (in addition to November 1 through 10, 2013)!

All proceeds from the Passport to Baltimore fashion event plus the shopping card sales will help support the Junior League’s programs and community impact work.

 

The amazing ladies of the Junior League of Baltimore are offering a lucky DMV or Baltimore area reader, the chance to win a ticket to the festivities!  Just enter below. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


If you'd like to learn more or purchase tickets, just click here. Tickets to the fashion show are $50.00 and include a Passport to Baltimore shopping card! Shopping Card tickets are $35.
 

The prize for this post is sponsored by the Junior League of Baltimore, Inc.

 

 Junior League of Baltimore, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and community impact work, including fighting childhood obesity in Baltimore metropolitan area. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. To learn about the League or becoming a member, visit www.jlbalt.org

Frugal Fashion Friday - Transition Pieces

One of the best way to make you fashion dollar go further is to purchase pieces that can be worn in multiple seasons. Using some of your summer pieces in fall and some of your fall pieces in late summer can help you through that time that is both warm and cool.  I've pulled together a collection of pieces that I already own (or own similar items).  Using pieces like these with some basics can help to transition you to fall.



Click on the photos above for buying information.

 

This faux leather peplum top is one of new favorite pieces. I can wear it with these plum jeans on the weekend or with dress pants and a boucle jacket to the office. Add the silver oxfords or the cage booties, a great bag and a statement necklace to finish the outfit.

This embellished sweatshirt stands alone. Wear it with the plum jeans, cage booties, and cap on the weekends or throw it on with a simple solid skirt for the weekdays. It's lightweight enough to wear now in a chilly office or later when there is a chill in the air. This necklace from Stella and Dot can be worn five different ways. It won't over conflict with the embellishment on the sweatshirt.

Easy pieces like these can be worn multiple ways and in lots of weather. Making your dollar go further. 

Fall Shoe Wishes

Zara always seems to have the most incredible shoes and for some reason, I've never purchased a pair from their site or the store. I don't really have an explanation but hopefully I will remedy that this fall.  I'm loving lots of their fall styles. Each of the pairs have qualities that I love in shoes.



Click on the photos for buying information.

From the top left...

 

• Low Heeled Pointed Toe Ankle Boots - I love low heeled ankle boots. They look great with pants and skirts and this suede version is dressy enough for the office.

• Ankle Boot Sandal - A funky take on a sandal. These ankle boots have a cool rocker edge to them. The ankle straps and chunky heel are sturdy and the wide toe strap will hide my pinky toe that insists on sticking out when I wear strappy sandals.

• Red D'Orsay Flat - You know I'm loving D'Orsay flats this fall. Red ups the pretty quotient on this version.

• Nude Pointed Toe Ballerina Flats - Nude flats are so versatile. I prefer pointed toe flats to round toe flats because they lengthen your legs.  The ankle strap adds sophistication.

• Black Leather D'Orsay Kitten Heels - The cut of these D'Orsay pumps is unique. I also love kitten heels for those days when you don't really want to wear a sky high heel.

• Combination Ankle Boots - The cut out, the color blocking and the low heel of these ankle boots (yeah, you get it, I love ankle boots) create a not so typical boot. I'd wear these on the weekends, with jeans or a winter maxi skirt.

Do you have a wish list of fall shoes?

Stella & Dot Fall Trunk Show Preview and GIVEAWAY! - CLOSED

This Giveaway is CLOSED.



 

Thank you for reading. I conduct new giveaways regularly. Check back for details.

When I got my first look at the new pieces in the fall Stella and Dot collection, I think I squealed. There are so many amazing pieces. Many of them suit my personal style but there is truly something for everyone. There are pieces you could wear every day, pieces that can be worn multiples ways, sparkly pieces and statement pieces.  I couldn't show you everything, so I just picked some of my favorites.



Click the photos above to see details on these pieces and the rest of the collection.

 

When I saw the Kahlo necklace in hematite, I knew it had to be mine. It's an amazing statement necklace, mixed metals, sparkle, and heavy chain. I also love the Sutton Necklace. You can wear it five different ways! That's quintuple duty! Not only are there beautiful pieces of jewelry, there are bags and handbags. Don't even get me started on the bags and wallets. Take a look for yourself.

I love these pieces so much that I'm hosting an online Stella and Dot Trunk Show as well as a giveaway! Check out all of the new pieces and be sure to enter the giveaway for a

$50 Stella and Dot gift card!

You have more than seven chances to win, if you complete all of the entries. Earn more entries by tweeting daily or placing an order through the trunk show (not required for entry or to win).

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer - The opinions expressed here are my own. I was not paid for this post, however I will earn credits from purchases through the trunk show. The $50 gift card is provided at my own expense. A trunk show purchase is not required to enter or win the gift card. The gift card can only be used for Stella & Dot items purchased through Stylist Kristin Biggs.

Fall 2013 Fashion Week Highs and Lows

Don't worry, I still love you all and haven't dropped off the face of the earth.  I've been crazy busy for the last two weeks.  My paying job is sucking my time.  It's also a sad week for me. My Dad passed away 4 years ago tomorrow.  Fortunately, fashion can always make me smile.  During the NY Fashion Week shows, some looks have made me cheer and others made me shake my head.  Since I don't have time to put together a proper post, I thought I'd share a few of my faves from Fashion Week. There were some great new ideas (Victoria Beckham's tuxedo jacket/cape hybrid). There were trends I like (lots of layers and leather) and some things that make me go ugh (mini skirts and super baggy ensembles). Items like these will be hitting the stores this fall. Remember, NY Fashion week is about 6 months ahead of the stores.  Buyers attend and select what will be in stores come fall. Enjoy!

3.1 Phillip Lim - Fantastic Blue Suit

Derek Lam - Flowy Purple Dress

3.1 Phillip Lim - Leather Jacket

Derek Lam - Leather Skirt

Proenza Schouler - Black and White: Great Pants, Coat and Shoes

Victoria Beckham - Tuxedo Cape

Vera Wang - Sparkly Top and Great Color Combinations

Proenza Schouler - Feather Skirt, Fancy/Casual

alice + olivia - Quilted Leather Jacket and Tutu

BCBG Max Azria - Leather and Fabric Jacket

Badgley Mischka - Green Sequin Gown

photo credit: All photos from nymag.com

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!

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.

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?

My Perfect Fall Outfit

The chill in the air this week has made me think of fall clothes and layering.  This morning I put on one of my favorite maxi skirts, the pale green skirt that my Mom and I made together last February.  I combined it with a jacket that I've never worn it with before. I'll have pictures soon. The maxi jacket combo made me think of my favorite combination of a moto jacket and a girly maxi. I've been pining away for a pleated maxi since last fall. I just found one at asos and I'm thrilled.  Now I just have to save up my money.

My Perfect Fall Outfit by realgirlrunway

Each piece of this outfit is great on it's own and combined it's so easy to wear.  I love the pops of color with the black and the fun jewelry.

Moto Jacket
This jacket is from my favorite new store, Fashion to Figure.  They sell items in sizes 12 - 26.  This jacket has a classic style but a modern cropped cut. As a bonus it's lined in leopard print fabric! 

Suede Booties
These suede booties are classic and can be worn with pants or a skirt. I love pairing them with this girly skirt. They are easy to walk in for weekend errands and shopping.

Crop Top
Usually the words crop top make me shudder. This one is just the right length and will look loose and flowy with the skirt.  I love the maroon color, perfect for fall.  It's also from Fashion to Figure.

Pleated Maxi Skirt
This black, semi sheer pleated maxi is girly but so versatile. I can see it dressed down with this jacket and boots or dressed up with a sparkly top. I'm in love!

Portfolio Clutch
I love clutches but for every day use they are usually way to small for me. This one is really big and I love the mustard yellow color.

Necklaces
These unique necklaces are from JewelMint.  They are the Victorian Charmer Necklaces and the vintage vibe is so sweet. The layered look is great as well. I love the magnifying glass the most. 

You can make these your own by:

Register for a JewelMint Account

Use code: RGRJM50 (at checkout)

to get 50% off your first order!

Bracelet
I think I may have squealed when I saw this bracelet.  Believe it or not I've been looking for a claw bracelet since I saw one on another blogger months ago. The claw scary but cool and very fall, Halloween.

Stay tuned, I'll be making a great announcement soon about my friends a Fashion to Figure.

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?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Just One Item

Back in the spring I did a series titled "Spring Picks for the Budget Girl".  I picked my must have items for the spring and summer season.  The weather has started to cool a little and it has me thinking about transitioning my spring and summer items into fall. I don't have a big budget to buy tons of new items.  There are lots of great trends for fall including, fur, polka dots, lady like bags, maxis, high heeled loafers, and utility boots. 

Since I purchased these items back in the spring, mixing them now and adding just one new item per outfit is a great budget strategy.  I will get more wear out of clothes I already love and  adding a single new trend item will make me feel like I have a brand new outfit. 


The breton striped top, wide leg jeans (swapped out for a white skirt), and lady like bag from spring get an update just by switching out the shoes for a high-heeled loafer.

High Heeled Loafters by realgirlrunway featuring striped tops

A maxi skirt, with a sheer sweater, and neutral booties can transition into fall with a faux fur vest.

Faux Fur Vest by realgirlrunway featuring bullet earrings

A bright dress, biker jacket and bangles, can make a fall statement with some tights and a pair of utility boots.

Utility Boots by realgirlrunway featuring a bangle bracelet

I love these three fall trends. They are fun and can be worn with all types of outfits. They'll give me lots of wear all fall and bring something new to my wardrobe. These trends may not be your favorites but that's the beauty of fashion. Pick the things that you love. I'll be posting more of my fall picks soon.

How are you going to update your spring and summer wardrobe with only a few items?

NOTE: Some of the items in the sets above may be out of stock.  They were items I featured in my previous posts and I wanted to be consistent.  If you already have them in your closet, that's great. If you don't, try mixing in one new item with your favorite outfits.

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

Summer Dress Recycle

Fall is here and the shift in temps from cool in the morning to warm during the day, brings challenges. I also have yet to tackle the massive closet rotation of summer to winter. I'm forced to find options to use my summer duds as fall duds. My summer maxi dresses are getting the fall treatment with sweaters, jackets, and either boots or tights.

photo credit: redcarpet-fashionawards.com (top photo)