Frugal Fashion Friday - Transition Pieces

My favorite wardrobe pieces are those that can be worn during multiple seasons. I have a floral skirt that you've seen a few different ways. I wear it in the spring and summer with light tops and sandals and in the fall with tights and sweaters. As the stores and online retailers clear out their summer merchandise you can take advantage of the discounts and snag items to wear now and into the fall. Here are just a few picks.



Printed Shift Dress - ASOS

 

A floral dress can be a versatile piece in summer and in fall, throw on a jacket (like the one below) and some pumps and you're ready for work. Dress it down by adding sneakers and a denim jacket.

 



Speckle Moto Jacket - Piperlime

 

I love tweed jackets! In a mid-weight, they are seasonless. It's also a timeless piece. I wear my tweed jackets with dresses and skirts, as well as with jeans and t-shirt.

 



DOCKLAND Sneakers in Gold - Asos

Slip on sneakers are an on trend item right now. In a color like this gold metallic, you can wear them now with shorts or a cute floral dress. You can also wear them into the fall and winter with warm socks, jeans and a sweater.

 

 

NYDJ Marilyn Straight Leg Jeans - Amazon

 

The old fashion rule of no white after Labor Day no longer applies. A cute tank and sandals can help you close out the summer in these jeans. Add a tweed jacket and swap out your sandals for some sneakers or ankle boots and you're ready for fall.



 

Linen Midi Skirt - ASOS

The length of a midi skirt makes it the perfect fall transition piece. It works in the summer with a tank or short sleeve top and you can wear it on cooler days with a sweater or a cute jacket.

 Do you have favorite transition pieces?

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Cape Jackets, Kimonos, and Full Printed Skirts

Since I've been a bit slow in posting lately, I thought I'd give you a triple whammy today! Three of my latest obsessions. One of my biggest spring obsessions is the cape jacket. My favorites are more blazer material than outerwear material but that makes them perfect for spring and summer. They are a fun twist on a traditional jacket. Another spring topper that I can't get enough of is the kimono (a modified version of the traditional). I'm more rocker than boho but I love that you can take these pretty jackets, add them to jeans and throw on a tee and great shoes and you're instantly chic. I can't get enough of full printed skirts. I love the ones with big full gathers or pleats in fun prints (not your traditional florals).

Victoria Beckham Blazer Style Cape

When I first spied this tuxedo style cape jacket from Victoria Beckham, I was in love. It's different and so chic. As usual, size and price restrictions ensured that it would never be mine.  Over $3,000, nope! I went in search of a less expensive version. I found some great options but nothing in my size. My poor mom has now been begged and tasked with helping me to make one.



Click on the pictures for buying information.

 

My next obsession is the kimono. This modern version is a bit of a departure from the traditional kimono. It comes in fun prints, florals, embroidery or with fringe. I picture mine with cut offs or white jeans for summer. I'd add a simple tee or a tank and some cute sandals. The two kimonos in the top left and bottom right corners are definitely on my list.



Click on the pictures for buying information.

 

Last but certainly not least is the full, printed skirt. I fell hard for this skirt from tibi. The graphic print and the full, midi style, had me smitten. Once again size (only up to a 12) and price (over $600) prevented me from ever purchasing this beauty.

tibi Splash Skirt

While searching for full printed skirts I found the amazing (black, white, and gray) skirt on the right, from ModCloth!  It's very similar to the tibi skirt, it's affordable at only $69 and it comes in my size! In fact it comes in sizes small to 3x!



Click on the pictures for buying information.

 

I know the gray skirt in the center doesn't look like it's printed.  The print is pressed into the fabric, you just have to click on the link and look at the skirt up close. It's fantastic!

Well there you have it, some of my spring obsessions. A cape jacket is on the DIY list, the kimonos and skirt will be on order soon.

What are your spring obsessions?

WINNER - Skirt the Issue Giveaway!

Thank you to everyone who read the review and entered the giveaway. The winner of the Skirt the Issue skirt of your choice is:

 

CONGRATULATIONS

Michael S.!!


(I will be in touch via email.)



If you didn't win, Skirt the Issue and their fabulous creator Karen is offering a discount to all RGR readers.  Just click here and go to Skirt the Issue, select a great style (or two) and enter the discount  code:

SKIRTLOVE

for 10% off of your order until June 1st.

My Must List - Transition Pieces

This time of year my closet is always too full. Because of the unpredictable weather (it was almost 70 degrees and sunny on Saturday and 30 degrees and snowing on Monday), I'm not able to pull all of my winter clothes and still can't wear my spring duds. Transition pieces that can pull double duty are the best options right now. Those items that will work with my winter and summer clothes. Items that I can layer and are seasonless are required.



Click on the photos for buying information.

• This full graphic print skirt works with tights and a sweater now but will also work with strappy sandals and a light top later.
• Yes, they're white but the timeless, cat eye shape of these sunnies classic and seasonless.
• Jewelry isn't really a transition piece but I love this rose gold version of my favorite Stella & Dot Renegade bracelet. I know I will wear it constantly. 
• This print bomber can be layered with a light sweater now and worn with a t-shirt later.
• Leopard slip on sneakers! So cool and comfortable. They will be my weekend go to pair.
• Leather pants will work now and well into the spring, with a chunky sweater now and a flowy top in warmer weather.
• These almost Balenciaga boots are a major look for less. I can wear them now with socks and later with bare feet.

What's on your Must list?


Don't forget to enter the Skirt the Issue giveaway!  Just a few more days until it ends.

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Midi Skirts

All of my life I've wanted to be a girl who felt comfortable throwing on a pair of shorts or a mid-thigh skirt. Heck, I'd love to even feel comfy in a skirt that is just above my knee. I'm not one of those girls.  My legs are definitely my least favorite feature and my ample hips and much smaller waist are more suited to full skirts instead of pencil skirts. That's why I'm so obsessed with midi skirts. Their longer length and fuller silhouette are made for me. They are flattering to my figure and I feel great when I wear a skirt that hits just at or below my knees. I'm loving that there are so many options available.

ASOS Full Quilted Midi Skirt / ASOS Pleated Midi skirt / ASOS Striped midi skirt / ModCloth Essential Elegance skirt / ASOS Burnout Floral midi skirt / Talbots Pink Sateen Pleated Skirt / Talbots Blue Sateen Pleated Skirt / ASOS | ASOS Midi Skirt with Full Pleats / ModCloth One Tweet Morning Skirt / ModCloth Bettie Page B. Jones Style Skirt

I selected skirts in all sizes and colors. The pink and blue skirts from Talbots are on sale for $20 or less!  I love the retro feel of the skirts from ModCloth and the modern take of the Asos skirts. There is something for every style and mood.

Happy Shopping!

Classics "I Want" List

One of my favorite Pinterest boards is my "I Want" board.  It contains those items I spy when virtual "window shopping" online that I would like to have. Some are affordable and some are pipe dreams. There are tons of trendy items I'd like to have. Some I buy, like these boots. In reality I have lots of clothes and I need to pair down and clean out my closet. I'm planning a massive closet purge soon. My style is eclectic but there are items that I consider classics or basics that will be used and worn for years and years to come. Here's my current classics "I WANT" list.



Click on the pictures above for buying information.

• Nude or Tan Top Handle Tote - The color needs to be muted, more nude than brown. I want the top handles to be short so it's easy to carry down at my side or in the crook of my arm. It also must have a long strap for hands free ease as well as internal pocket(s) for organization. This one from Zara fits all my criteria.

• Chunky Gold Chain Necklace - I have tons of silver necklaces but I don't have many in gold. I like this one from BaubleBar but I'd prefer a single, thick chain that I can wear multiple ways.

• Full Skirt - This circle skirt from ModCloth is the right length and the right amount of fabric, at the right price.

• Nude or Tan Chunky Heel Sandal - I need a neutral sandal like this one that I can dress up or down. It can go to the office or out to dinner. This pair from ALDO is simple but still has interesting detail.

• White Jeans - I own a pair of white cropped pants but I'd love to have a pair of white jeans. I want them to be a narrow cut or skinny but they can't be tight.  The trick to making white pants look good on us curvy girls is fit.  If they are too tight or pull in the wrong place, they'll be terribly unflattering.

• Printed Pants - I'm sure these paisley pants don't seem like a classic.  But I love printed pants and I'm sure I will be wearing them for several seasons or more.  I own four pairs and I wear them constantly. They have become my go to pants this spring and I wore them all winter too. I think I need to hit the Talbots Outlet soon. Three of my four pairs came from there and they were all great bargains.

Do you have a classics list?

Springtime Wishes

Another busy week full of work and wedding.  I'm pulling together posts about our amazing wedding ring DIY and about a fun fashion event I attended on Sunday.  I'll have them up soon. In the meantime I thought I'd share a few of the items on my spring wish list.

The week before our wedding {msL} and I will be going to the courthouse in DC to get a legal marriage license and take our vows in front of the Justice of the Peace.  You see we live in Virginia where our marriage will not be legally recognized.  Luckily for us we live close to DC and Maryland where marriage equality is in place. Laws and minds have come so far but there is still a long way to go. Please support marriage equality in your state.  Hopefully one day soon our marriage will be recognized in every state. I want a pretty dress to wear to the courthouse and I love this polka dot dress from Coldwater Creek.

I've been waiting until after the wedding to make any changes to my hair.  This is killing me. I change my hair often and I'm sure I'll be doing something like adding an ombre look or cutting it shorter.

I wear my flats much more than my heels.  My flats are starting to look a bit old so I'm on the hunt for fun new flats I can wear all spring and summer. These mirror silver flats from ASOS are great. I love the pointed toe and the ankle strap.

A leather skirt has been on my list for some time.  Leather is hot this spring and I'm going to get myself a great skirt.  Pencil skirts just don't work on my curvy body. This full style is perfect.

Crystals, pearls and skulls, FANTASTIC!  One of my favorite things is to mix tough with pretty.  This statement necklace is a dream for me in that department.  I definitely need this one on my wish list.

My handbag collection is a bit nuts.  This spring I'm planning a closet clean out. I'll be purging the bags I never use and replacing a few of them with classics that I'll use often. This tan tote from Zara is the perfect replacement. It's large enough for work but sleek and polished.  The tan color will go with everything this spring.

What items are on your wish list?

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?

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Graphic Prints

Well my friends, this is the last installment of the Fall 2012 Runway Trends series.  Today we are taking a look at graphic prints. There are so many ways to wear prints, there is something for everyone.  There are supposed fashion rules about not wearing prints on body parts you don't like.  Well, you know I'm a rule breaker.  I'm definitely not a fan of my thighs and rear but my current favorite pair of pants, are these paisley print pants from Talbots Outlet.  I got them for a steal and I love them! Thanks to my friend Jennifer of Comme Coco for the photo!

Me at a CapFABB event, picture by Jennifer Jean-Pierre of Comme Coco

Outfit details:  vest - thrifted via Goodwill, shirt - Target (no longer available), pants - Talbots Outlet (no longer available), shoes - Neiman Marcus Last Call (available here on ebay), bag - vintage Coach (90's), necklace - c/o Stella & Dot (Alexandria necklace available here) 

I'm loving this trend. It's fun to add that cool print to your outfit.  Even if you don't want to wear pants or a skirt, try a top, bag or shoes.  There are lots of cute and colorful options out there.  Try something new. Be bold!

Click on the photo above for details.

I'm especially in love with this amazing trench coat.  A fantastic way to wear print, via the collar and hem.  The clutch would be a fun addition to your weekend wardrobe and a great choice if you just want to add a pop. If  you aren't sure what to try, pick one piece that you love and keep the rest of your outfit neutral.  That way you can ease into the trend and try it out.  If you are ready to mix patterns, give it a try, like I did above.  Try a stripe and a pattern or a small print with a large print.  If you aren't sure about the combo, try it on and take a photo. It's easier to be objective that way. 

I hope you've enjoyed this series.  More fun things to come this fall. I've been in a crazy DIY mode lately and I have lots of projects coming up soon.

What do you think?  Will you try to out graphic prints?

Inspiration - T-Shirts and Fancy Skirts

Lately, I've been loving the combo of a t-shirt and a fancy skirt.  I'm especially loving graphic tees with a fashion related or French saying.  Many of the blog popular shirts are crazy expensive.  Try $225 for one t-shirt!  I know, INSANE.  I created a board on Pinterest titled "Style I Should Try".  I pin photos there of outfits I love and want to emulate.  My love of this fancy casual outfit has made me want to expand my skirt and t-shirt wardrobe.  I've been looking for some great skirts and I just made a run to Old Navy for some new tees. These ladies are my inspiration.

Check out the links to these ladies by clicking the photo above. 

All of the ladies above have such great style. Their basic idea was the same, a t-shirt and a fancy skirt but they all have an amazingly different take on the concept.  Everything from the fantastic, over the top, feather skirt and cool graphic tee of Blair from Atlantic - Pacific to the sweet, flowy maxi and simple gray tee of Allie from Wardrobe Oxygen.  I love that each of them took the same basic idea and gave it her own twist. A couple weeks ago I went to a beauty event at Nordstrom and wore one of my favorite sparkly skirts and my vintage AC/DC t-shirt. I got lots of compliments and it was a chic but comfy outfit for a busy day. My sequin skirt is begging for the same treatment.

Old Navy is the best place for basics, like t-shirts.  They're inexpensive and the perfect canvas for a graphic t-shirt DIY.  My DIY is in the works.  I can't wait to show you the final results.

Over the weekend I visited one of my favorite stores for bargains, Talbots Outlet.  The entire store was $17.99 or less!  I got an amazing black and bronze, brocade skirt for only $17.99. I can't wait to pair it with my DIY t-shirt. 

What do you think of  pairing a fancy skirt and t-shirt?
 

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Plaid

Admittedly when I think of plaid, the first thing that comes to mind is my dad.  He loved his plaid shirts. In fact, we have a photo of him when he was hiking the Appalachian Trail, he's wearing a plaid shirt and he looks like Paul Bunyan.  Thanks to designer creativity, plaid this season is far from Lumber Jack status.  Some of the shirts and skirts make me think of 90's grunge and Marc Jacobs' iconic collection.  But there are tons of other options too.  Pair you plaid with some neutrals

I just got a great pair of plaid pants and I can't wait to wear them!

Fall 2012 Runway Trends - Brocade & Embroidery

Another installment in the Fall 2012 Runway Trend series, today we are focusing on the brocade and embroidery trend.  I've heard this trend referred to as brocade, embroidery and baroque.  No matter what you call it, the trend focuses on detailed stitched patterns and luxurious fabric. My favorite is the brocade skirt.  It's beautiful and versatile.  Dress it up with a blouse and heels or down with a t-shirt and flats. You can also carry the trend into jewelry with a statement necklace or a beautiful ring or cuff.

A pretty brocade dress will be timeless.  With a simple change of shoes and accessories, you will be able to update it for years to come.  A single brocade or embroidered piece can be the stand out of your entire outfit.  I own the Alexandria necklace by Stella & Dot (upper right corner).  I wear it constantly to work with my dress clothes and on the weekend with a t-shirt and jeans.  Every time I put it on, someone asks me about it.  You can even make your brocade piece look rock n' roll, just add that other fall trend, leather.

How will you be wearing this trend?

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 - Leather

As I'm writing this post, I just realized that all of the leather items I chose are black (well one is gray).  I love leather and faux leather but I have a special love for black leather.  I think it's the fact that I equate leather to toughness, rockers, and bikes (motorcycles not the kind you pedal).  Black leather is sexy, it's rich and it's bad ass.  Colored leather is fantastic, in fact I own several items that are colored leather and colored suede, not counting shoes.  You don't need a Harley to wear leather.  You can do it in a sophisticated way, with a pencil skirt or a peplum top.  If you don't want to do a full leather piece, go for leather trim on a coat or jacket.

Click on the collage above for buying details

If you aren't a fan or real leather, there are so many fantastic faux leather options.  Most of the items above are faux leather.  They look great and they are less expensive than real leather.  Even if you're more ladies that lunch than lady rocker, you can make leather work for you.  A leather (faux leather) skirt is on my list of must buys this season. What's on your list?

Trends - Spring Pastels

The warm weather we are having in DC this week is making me yearn for lots of fun new spring ensembles. Nothing says spring to me more than the pastel trend that is everywhere right now. Maybe it's the memory of getting a new dress for Easter or the fun candies that always filled our house this time of year. This weekend I'll have to go through my spring and summer clothes to pull out a few on my fun pastel items.  Pastels are an easy trend to wear no matter your coloring or body type.  The colors are popping up in clothes and accessories.  You can incorporate a little or a lot of spring pastel color into your outfits.  Try mixing and matching colors or pair one items with a pastel print.  Don't want to go all out? Try a neutral all over and add accessories. Here are a few items I'm loving right now.

I'm going to sport a few of these items with the new mint shades that I created!

How are you going to wear the pastel trend?