Spring Picks - Neutral (But FUN!) Flats

I have a confession to make. I don't think flats are sexy at all.  My sister and I were discussing this the other day.  Flats are cute, they are fun, they are interesting but not sexy. Even the peep toe ones aren't sexy.  Even though I feel this is true, on most work days I gravitate toward my flats.  Unless the heels are super comfy I leave them in the closet. I don't like commuter shoes but sometimes will wear a pretty pair of flats and carry my heels.  I don't like to do that because I feel like, if I choose heels, I want to wear them all day with my outfit.

I've noticed that my stash of flats is becoming worn and frankly kinda stinky. I wear my flats without socks, hose or footies. Because of this, the curse of stinky feet that I inherited from my mom, can render some shoes unwearable. I've tried insoles and they only work temporarily.  I'm also really hard on shoes. I wear the toes down, scuff them, and nick them. If the shoes are of high quality, I will have them repaired. If not, they are either donated or trashed. Spending $20 to repair a pair of $15 shoes isn't usually worth it. The neutral shoes are the ones I wear the most.  My bright colored flats are fun but I don't mix them in as often.  Almost all of my neutral flats (black, nude, and metallic) need to be replaced but I don't want them to be boring. I went searching for flats that had a price tag of $100 or less. 

Click on the picture to get purchasing details on the flats above.

1) These silver flats have a cool zipper detail that sets them apart from your average metallic flat.
2) I like the t-strap on these nude flats. It adds a girly vibe.
3) The mixed metals of these metallic flats give them an interesting twist that I love.
4) I love the classic and girly bow on these flats. It gives them a Ladies That Lunch look.
5) I feel like the horse buckle on these black flats ensure I'll fit in at the country club. I might need to buy a polo shirt too.
6) Many might not consider glitter a neutral. Silver can be a neutral.  I think the glitter mixed with the silver studs is both tough and cute. 
7) These flats have so many great details.  I love the d'orsay cut, the nude and black mix and the ankle strap.   
 

I think numbers four and seven are my favorites.  It's funny because I started hunting for silver and gold flats and the ones that I ended up loving aren't even metallic. 

Which flats do you like the best?

Moment of Lust - Marc Jacobs Stam

Every season magazines declare a list of "IT" bags for the season.  Sometimes they are cool, sometimes not.  I love trends and always go for the less expensive versions when I'm buying a trendy bag.  I found a great studded bag last fall for $25, that I use often. Spending big money on trends is never my strategy. They come and go so fast that it's not worth the cost.  When I have the money to spend more, I gravitate toward the timeless bags. You know, the ones that 20 years from now, you'll still be able to carry and look great.

Big logo bags are also not my thing. The timeless bags have branding on them but it's never screaming and loud. I've made my love known for the Chanel Flap Bag (2.55).  It's a beautiful bag although there is a double C logo is small at the buckle. I've heard it said that the smaller the double C logo is on a Chanel bag, the more expensive it will be.  Since I don't shop at Chanel on a regular basis, I haven't tested that theory.  Many people swoon for the Louis Vuitton logo speedy.  I prefer the LV speedy in Epi Leather.  The tiny little LV is subtle but the bag's style is classic. The Marc Jacobs Stam bag fits this category perfectly. The quilting is beautiful. The shape and handles are functional. The lady like silhouette is perfect with any outfit.

Model Jessica Stam carrying her namesake bag

The Stam retails for about $1,350.  I love its beauty but at that price it won't be in the cards for me, unless My Honey wins the lottery for us. I don't count on the lotto because I have never had that kind of luck.  So I went searching for a less expensive version.  I found this bag on Handbag Heaven. They sell great handbags that are similar to designer styles but they aren't replica bags.  They don't have the logos or branding of the real bags but the shapes and styling are similar. The bag comes in several colors. I like the pewter because it's different but can also be used as a neutral. The Handbag Heaven version costs $54.95.  That's $1,295.05 less than the designer version.  It's a perfect swap for me.

What do you think?

Friday's Fancies - DC Fundraising Chic

I did a little contributing post on GalTime.com today.  There is a weekly post titled Friday's Fancices.  It is the brain child of fellow blogger, {av} of {long distance loving}. The idea is to create a Friday outfit with a limitless budget. It's exciting to pick items just because you love you them and not think about the cost.

Well you know I couldn't just leave it at that. I love a challenge. I recreated the outfit, RGR style.  I got the same look for just a few dollars more than the cost of the blouse in the original outfit! I even threw in some neutrals from the Spring Picks list.

Here is my Frugal Edition.

Friday's Fancies Frugal Edition Political Fundraiser by Real Girl Runway featuring a sequin skirt

Now click over to GalTime.com and check out the original outfit with Balmain, Alexander McQueen, diamonds, and Christian Louboutin.

Spring Picks for the Budget Girl (part 2)

The second part of our Spring Picks list includes some truly timeless pieces.  Neutrals, white, a Breton striped top. Bold colors that scream Spring and Summer. Neutral booties to give you the illusion of super model, long, legs.


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.

Neutrals can be worn forever, if you pick smartly tailored and basic pieces, like a pencil skirt or a wide leg trouser.  A light blush can be a neutral because it can be worn with some many other colors.

Coco Chanel made the Breton striped top popular more than 60 years ago, talk about timeless.  You can find Breton tops in many colors but I prefer the traditional navy and white.

A colorful item can be mixed with basics to brighten any outfit. They make me feel like Spring.

Many times darker booties can make your legs look shorter. A neutral bootie can actually lengthen your legs and make them appear longer, if you have lighter skin. If your skin is darker go for a brown or cocoa colored bootie. There are options in many heel heights. Pick one that fits your lifestyle and preference.

A beautiful white dress in a simple silhouette is a girl's best friend. It can be worn to a party, a summer dinner or in the evening with a bright cardigan. Despite popular belief, white can be flattering on every body type. Fit is key. make sure the item it's too clingy and that you wear the right undergarments. Nothing will ruin a great outfit more than visible panty lines. Embarassing.

Next up, the extras. You know how I love accessories. Stay tuned...