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!

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

My Favorite Fall 2013 Trends - Punk

You know a trend is going to be hot when Chanel shows it on their runway. One of my favorite Fall 2013 trends is punk. Some are calling it grunge but in my opinion, when you add spikes, studs or saftey pins, it's punk. The key to a trend is making it work for you. Is a studded jacket out of your comfort zone? Try a studded clutch instead. A ripped safety pin t-shirt not you? Try ripped jeans. If the punk trend still isn't you, don't worry there are plenty of others to try.

Punk Chanel Style

There are lots of ways to wear the punk trend.  Shoes, jewelry, jackets, shirt, and even jeans. Here are just a few ways I would wear the punk trend.

Click on the photos for buying info.

One of my favorite things about this trend is the amazing DIY options.  Instead of buying a pair of distressed jeans, create your own from an old pair or buy a pair at the thrift store for distressing. This blog has a good tutorial. Turn an old t-shirt punk by adding a few cuts and some safety pins. For just a couple dollars you can have an on great t-shirt to wear with your favorite leather jacket. Want to add some studs or spikes?  You can buy them here or here and add some punk to a jacket, a collar or even a cell phone cover. Even create your own safety pin necklace. Looking undone or self-made is part of the toughness that is punk.

If you're lacking inspiration, check out these photos of 80's London street style and music icons Wendy O'Williams, Siouxsie Sioux and Sid Vicious, as well as fashion designer and icon Vivienne Westwood.

 

Even the Metropolitan Museum of Art celebrated punk's influence on fashion with an exhibit this summer titled Punk: Chaos to Couture.

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.

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - My Favorites

It has to be all the talk of NY Fashion Week and my fond memories of back to school shopping that has me in the mood for fall fashion.  It's certainly not the weather here in the DC area.  It's super humid and supposed to be in the mid to high 80's all week. There is no sign of fall in sight.  This weekend I took a little trip to my favorite outlet, Talbots, in search of bargains.  I found two items that were on my list, a white blazer (originally $224 for $24.99!) and some fun ankle pants (mine are plaid).  I also snagged a fantastic silver sequin top.  It wasn't on my list but at $24 I couldn't pass it up. My shopping trip and the pile of September issue fashion mags on my coffee table inspired this post.

There are tons of trends on tap, as usual.  These are some of my favorites. I'm already embracing the military, white and plaid trends.  A leather skirt is on my list and I spied a brocade skirt at Talbots that I should have purchased but didn't.  I may have to go back for it.  Bordeaux is an easy trend to embrace.  Graphic prints can be done in with a single piece like a top, dress or skirt instead of an entire outfit.  A bit of menswear is fun, try a jacket, hat or some oxfords. You don't have to go full on Victor Victoria to wear this tread well.

This week, I'll be sharing my tips on how to fit these fall trends to your own personal style. 

Fall Beauty Trends 2012 - Budget Options

The runway shows don't just start fashion trends, they also start beauty trends.  Designers use hair, makeup and nails to compliment their designs and create a complete look.  There are lots of trends to try this fall.  I selected a few of my favorites from the runway.

You don't have to spend a fortune to try a new beauty look.  There are products and tools available at your local drugstore or discount store. 

Texture and Volume
Many of the same tools and products that work for texture also work for volume and vice versa.  A root volumizer, dry shampoo, and a teasing brush topped with hair spray can create a style with texture or with retro volume. The techniques are also similar. With volume, you'll just need to smooth the outer surface layer.

Flushed Cheeks
Cheeks that are flushed have the look that you've been in the sun or out in the cold.  The color looks like it's coming from within.  Using a cream or gel blush or a stain will give you this look better than a powder.  These products will also last longer.

Deep Red Lips
Rich plums, burgundies and maroons are the colors of fall lips.  Prep is key when wearing dark lipstick.  Exfoliate your lips using a lip scrub or just your wash cloth.  Then add a light coat of lip balm.  These steps will help your lipstick to wear longer and will reduce feathering.  If you are wearing lip stain, exfoliate but skip the lip balm.

Winged Eyes
The beauty of a winged eye is that you can go subtle or bold.  You can get the same effect with liquid or gel eyeliner, depending on your personal preference.  This tutorial from The Beauty Department will help you with the basics. The drama is up to you.

Hair Accessories
Statement hair accessories are an easy way to dress up a simple hair style.  There are lots inexpensive options at discount and accessory stores.  Select something that fits your personal style. Sparkly or geometric, clips or headbands, the possibilities are endless.

Sophisticated Nail Art
This fall nail art is all about metallics, classic colors, reverse french manicures and half moons.  Nudes, navys, and chrome dominated the options on the runway.  The designs were sleek and simple. They'll fit in at the office as well as a night out. If you've shied away from nail art because it was too young and cutesy, these fall options may be right up your alley.

They key to any trend is to make it work for you.  It's also a fun chance to try something completely new.  Pick up some inexpensive products from your local drugstore and try a trend on for size.  I recommend CVS (if there is one in your area) because of their extremely liberal return policy. You can return any nonprescription item within 30 days, with your receipt (open or unopened).  I just tried out a new deep red lip stain.  After trying it out, I knew the color wasn't right for me. I returned it to CVS and got a full refund.  That's no risk shopping!

I'll be trying out lots of these trends over the next few months.  Will you be trying anything new?

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?