Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Menswear

Sorry for the lack of posting. I've been and am still a bit under the weather.

There are only two trends left in our Fall 2012 Runway Trends series.  Today it's one of my all time faves, Menswear.  I love borrowing from the boys.  It's fun to wear oxfords and an occasional tie.  As much as I love dresses and skirts, pants are always comfortable.  The trick is wearing the menswear trend in a feminine way.  You can embrace the trend without looking like you are trying to be a man.

When I am embracing menswear, I think it's best to start with the basics. You can never go wrong with a great fitting pair of pinstripe pants. A basic white button up shirt is a staple for menswear style as well. A tailored blazer can be worn with dress pants as well as with jeans or shorts. It's a polished piece that will pull your entire outfit together.

If you just want to add a touch of menswear, go for accessories. I own several pairs of oxfords and love them as an alternative to sneakers.  The new crop comes in tons of colors and styles, like this metallic pair with blue soles from Target.  If you love heels, you can grab a pair of heeled loafers or oxfords.  They work with skirts or pants.  A little over a year ago I was introduced to Ginger Root Designs.  They have a great little boutique in DC or you can check out their online shop.  These ladies create the most fantastic upcycled clothing and menswear style accessories for women.  I'm in love with their Lady Ties.  These fantastic accessories are created from old and damaged men's ties and sometimes vintage buttons.  Not into ties?  Throw on a newsboy cap or grab a cross body satchel.  This one, in oxblood, by The Leather Satchel Company has a top handle which gives it a briefcase feel.  Top it off with a large men's style wrist watch.  It lends that menswear feel without being overpowering.

With just a few additions, it's easy to sport the menswear trend.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Loafers

I've featured loafers in a two of my posts recently (Five Ways to Update and Just One Item). I love the high heeled versions but I also love the low ones too.  They are a classic shoe that will never go out of style. You can't go wrong with adding a pair to your wardrobe.  Luckily,  I already own a few pairs of loafers (high and low).  I'd love to add these Alexander Wang Anais heeled loafers to my collection.  The metallic finish is modern but the style and cut are classic.  At $650 they are way out of my price range.

I went in search of a few alternatives. I love the metallics but I know they aren't for everyone.  Loafers can be found in all colors, heel heights and price ranges.  These are my favorites.

Loafers for All by realgirlrunway featuring high heels

I don't currently own any metallic loafers.  They are on my hunting list but I'm looking for just the right pair at the right price. Are you going to be wearing loafers this fall?

Happy Shopping Real Girls!

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.