I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Brow Bar Sunglasses

Maybe it's this cold weather that won't quit, or my love of vintage looks but I can't stop obsessing over sunglasses with a brow bar. I've spotted them on a few fashionistas, while checking out fashion week street style and can't stop thinking about owning a pair. The vintage styles are great but I especially like the modern take on this trend. I am 100% sure that I will own a pair of these sunnies by the time warm weather hits. I already have quite a large collection of sunglasses, but nothing with a brow bar. I'd love to add a designer pair (the Dior pair below center) but a more economical pair will likely make their way to my collection. Since these are definitely trend shades and not a classic style, bargain options will be my picks. As luck would have it, I even found a look for less version of the Dior pair!

Clockwise from top left -   1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9

I may have squealed a little inside when I saw these white sunnies with blue lenses and a gold bar. They just look like summer to me. At $14.95 (plus free shipping) they are a great bargain. The severe cat eye of this pair by Quay is statement making. Round and blue, I may have had a pair like this in the 80's. I'm a sucker for mirrored shades and this pink and orange version is cool. The clear frames on this pair look sophisticated. The mirror lenses on this tortoise shell pair give them a little extra oomph. Green, combined with the unique brow bar of this pair from Asos make them stand out from the pack. The black and blue pair from Steve Madden lean more toward classic. 

I fell hard for this pair (center) by Dior, but at $505, they are quite a bit more than I'm willing to pay. As luck would have it, I found this pair when searching.  They are a great look for less, at $12.99! I've already added them to my shopping cart. Can you guess which one below is the Dior pair and which is the look for less? Hard to tell isn't it?

Dior left, Look for less right

 Obsession satisfied! What are you obsessed with for spring?

Insta Monday - Spring Is In The Air

I am without a doubt, a warm weather girl. It's thrilling to see the sun shining, wear open toe shoes and drive with the sun roof open. This weekend was a busy one and I spent more time with family and friends than doing blog posts for the week. I love Instagram but sometimes you want to say more than is possible in the short post. I thought I'd elaborate on a few of my recent photos.



From Top Left (clockwise)

• Blooming Cherry Trees - The area is full of blooming cherry trees (similar to the ones surrounding this National Mall). They signal the start of spring and their pretty pink blossoms always make me happy.

• DIY Distressed Jeans - I created my first pair of distressed jeans (like these expensive ones) recently and I love how they turned out. I am hunting for a few thrift stores pairs to add to my distressed jeans arsenal. I'm planning a DIY post soon.

• Coffee Table Decorations - The tray has been repainted again (you've seen it here in silver). I'm loving it in gold. The candy dish is Depression glass that belonged to my Aunt Em. She used it to hold homemade jam. The pretty roses are from my friends' garden.

• Baseball Game - We received a last minute invite from my sister to attend Friday night's Nationals game. We had a blast, the team won, and we got our faces up on the jumbotron!

• New Polish - This pretty neutral polish (Zoya Rue) was in the People VIP Beauty box I received last week from People Magazine and Klout. It's a fantastic color. I also got a free three month subscription to People Magazine. If you'd like your own subscription, click this link for a great deal.

• New Sunnies from Nectar - I received some new sunnies complements of Nectar sunglasses. I love them. Besides being stylish and mirrored (hot trend that I love) they are super comfortable and affordable. I will be doing a review post soon. In the meantime, if you'd like to check out the sunnies and get a 10% discount on your order, click this link and use the code: lovenectar

To see all of my Instagram photos, be sure to follow me on Instagram and Twitter. My handle on both is @realgirlrunway. Thank you so much for supporting the businesses that believe in and support Real Girl Runway. Show them some love by considering purchases from their businesses.

Wishful Shopping - Casual Spring Chic

The weather is getting warmer. This week the DC area is supposed to hit 90. A little hotter than I'd like for spring but I'm still happy for warm weather. Spring has made me start packing away my winter duds and thinking about fun summer purchases. I did a little wishful shopping over the weekend and picked out a few items that I'd love to own.

Click on the photos above for buying information.

 

I've been in love with these copper flash Ray-Ban aviators since I first saw them. I love Ray-Bans and especially love the classic styles like the aviators. These are a fun new twist but still classic. This top totally my style, flowy, deep color and an embroidered skull. I own a pair of straight leg white jeans but I've been dying for a skinny pair. The rose gold Renegade bracelet has been on my wish list for some time. I'd pair it with the Tribute bracelet that I have already. My black and leopard slip-ons have both been getting tons of wear. This silver pair would be a great addition. A pink suede bag would round out this look and still be versatile. A fun but casual outfit for spring.

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?

Monday Monitor Shopping - asos

Sometimes on chilly weekend mornings, I sit in my pjs and my fuzzy slippers, with my coffee and I monitor shop.  You know, the modern equivalent of window shopping.  Many people find this torture if they can't afford to buy. For me, it helps me to see what's out there and helps me to refine my list from "Ooo that's cute." to "I really have to buy that.".  I leave my credit card in my wallet across the room.  That way if I'm tempted to buy, I have to really give it some thought, get up from my comfy seat and dig for my card. This weekend I did a little monitor shopping at asos.

 

I'm thinking of warmer weather and gravitated toward bright colors and fun shapes.

Do you monitor shop?

 

Be sure to enter the giveaway for a skirt from Skirt the Issue!

Lust List for Spring

Oh, if money were no object and I didn't have a budget to stick to, I'd buy all of the things I want. Unfortunately, I need to stick to a budget and I sometimes make hard decisions about my fashion and beauty purchases.  Today, I've compiled my lust list for spring. I'd love to have all of the items on this list.  Some are affordable, some aren't.  I may also be able to find some frugal alternatives.

First on my list are the ATTACK Leather Gladiator boots from ASOS.  I'm definitely ordering those.  They are amazing and the perfect bad girl option for spring. I'm in love with the military style vest from Boy. by Band of Outsiders. Of course they don't make it in my size, so I'll have to hunt for an alternative. The studded bag from Aldo is fantastic. The pinkish color turns the tough studs into a spring bag. I've had my eye on the Prada Baroque sunglasses for some time. I know there are similar versions available for much less but hey a girl can dream. Obsessed is a mild word for how I feel about fuchsia lipstick. I even wore it on my wedding day.  I've heard some friends rave about NARS Funny Face.  It's on my must have list. In the spring, as the weather warms, I have to switch from my heavy cream moisturizer to something lighter. Serums are my moisturizer of choice for spring and summer. I've read good things about Boots No. 7's version. It's affordable and available at Target.  Sold!  Every girl needs a little bling.  I used to have four holes in my ear but I let the upper two close. I just have my lobe and my cartilage piercings left. This ear pin is fantastic. It will slide into my lobe piercing but give the look of multiple piercings without any bulk or weight. It's sparkly, pretty, and cool. I may need to rework my spring fashion budget or get a second job.

What's on your spring lust list?

Emerald City - Green For Spring

I have to admit, green is not my first choice.  Well, olive is but not emerald green.  It's the hot color this year and a trend for spring. I found some great pieces that were olive and not all of the items below are true emerald green but you'll have to indulge me.  I managed to catch a showing of OZ the Great and Powerful. I'm not a James Franco fan and think they could have done a much better job of casting the role of Oz. The movie was fun and a worth seeing if you're a fan of the original.  My heart still belongs to Dorothy but it was a fun treat.

My favorites in this bunch are the fantastic graphic print dress from ASOS and the Liz earrings from Stella and Dot. They even look beautiful on the back side!  I will be wearing these exact earrings (thanks Kristin!) when we get our official marriage license at the courthouse in DC next week.  By the way, {msL's} first name is Liz.  Appropriate, huh?

This is the last installment in the spring curvy fashion series. Be sure to check out the other ladies and their blogs:

Curvy CEO

Girls of Plenty

Grown and Curvy Woman

Heart, Print and Style

Society of Curves

Frugal Fashion Friday - Leather for Spring (or anytime)

Today is another installment in our spring fashion for curvy girls series.  I'm sure you're wondering why this is also a Frugal Fashion Friday post.  You all know I believe in remixing your clothes. I also believe in quality over fast fashion.  However, sometimes inexpensive fashion can also be quality.  Case in point are the two jackets in the outfit photos below. They are both faux leather.  I love leather but I found these jackets for bargain prices and I wear them both as much or more than my leather. The black cross zip, biker jacket is from Target. I scored it more than two years ago and I wear it constantly.  It's great with jeans and a t-shirt.  I also love it over a dress or a maxi skirt. The olive moto jacket has interesting detail and goes with everything.

I personally love jackets to lend polish or interest to an outfit.  Add a black, cross zip, biker jacket to a simple t-shirt and jeans and you're instantly transformed into a bad ass (well in my mind, anyway). Add a biker or moto jacket to a pretty skirt and it toughens it up and it gives it edge. These jackets are also transitional pieces. I wear mine spring, summer and fall. They're ageless and timeless pieces that anyone can wear, no matter their size.

Faux leather can look cheap. I've seen faux leather jackets that aren't fooling anyone.  They don't look like leather at all.  The key is the finish and detail.  Does the faux leather feel or look plastic? Make sure it gives the appearance of real leather. Check the hardware. Are the zippers good quality? Are the snaps or buttons set well? If you can answer yes to all of these questions, then you have a high quality, faux leather jacket.  I paid about $30 for each of these jackets. These jackets have been a great value. The price per wear is pennies and they are still going strong.

Obviously, I wear leather (or faux leather) regardless of trend.  Leather is a classic look that transcends time.  A quality leather or faux leather jacket is a great buy that you can wear for years.

Be sure to check out the other ladies and their blogs:

Curvy CEO

Girls of Plenty

Grown and Curvy Woman

Heart, Print and Style

Society of Curves

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?

Inspiration - Layering

It seems as if the weather and temp is changing by the hour, here in the DC area.  I'm sure it's been that way across the country (and world).  Last week I was freezing with temps in the teens and twenties and snow.  Today and yesterday, it feels like spring with temps in the 70's.  Yesterday I was wearing a heavy winter coat and barely needed it when I left the office at 5pm.  I realized that I need to seriously work on my layering skills.  Some fashionistas seems to do this in an effortless way.  They pair layers and textures and it looks amazing.

Layering - for changing weather by Real Girl Runway.  Click above to view the photos.

In almost every case, the layers are very thin.  This is the trick to keep from looking frumpy or bulky.  Also, using items of different length, keeps you from having too may layers stopping in one area, like your hips or your tummy.  All of the photos I chose today show ladies wearing pants but layering can be done with a skirt or dress, just as well.  The same rules apply.

My favorite look from the ones above is the one in the center.  J.Crew Style Director, Jenna Lyons, is a style icon.  She has a casual but pulled together style that always look chic and comfortable at the same time.  She's inspired me to try a similar look with items in my own closet.

Here is a link to a post on Refinery 29 with some great tips about layering.  I love that they address stylish but clever ways to layer some of your spring items with winter items.  I'm a fan of a sweater over a dress for winter. I'm not big on skirts over pants but you could try a similar twist with a skirt over leggings.  I personally don't own any dressy shorts, so the shorts over tights suggestion is also out for me.  They also don't work for me because I don't think shorts are office appropriate unless you work in a casual environment.

I'm going to try out some of the combos from my inspiration photos.  Are you layering during this weather?

A Leg Up on a Colorful Spring

This spring, one of my must haves is a pair of colored jeans.  I'd like them in several colors and styles but I'd settle for one stand out pair that is a great color and fits well. Pants aren't my friend. Finding ones that fit my apple shape is a challenge.  I know that even my well proportioned friends have a tough time finding pants. I'm leaning toward a pair of  Not Your Daughter's Jeans.  If I'm lucky, I will find a pair at Nordstrom Rack sometime soon.  If not, I think I'll have to break down and splurge on a pair.  There are so many options available, that I went searching for a few favorites.  I've found them in all sizes and colors.

Just click on the picture above to view where to buy these jeans.  Many of them are sold in more than the color you see here.

Do you already own a pair of colored jeans?  If not, are they on your list for spring?

Sandals for Everyone - aka FU Mother Nature

Last week I was running around sporting my cute new silver Nine West wedge sandals. On Monday morning I woke up to a freezing house and the weather report saying that the DC area would have highs around 46 degrees for the day.  Folks living in western Maryland and West Virginia could look forward to snow!  It's April Mother Nature! Are you giving us the finger? Are you laughing at us mere mortals who are packing away our winter coats? The weather was absolutely beautiful on Saturday.  Sunday we got rain and then Monday, BRRR! In honor of my love of warm weather and my wish that it will be warm again soon I've picked some of my favorite low priced sandals of the spring and summer. Wishful internet shopping all around!

1) Kelly & Katie Sydney Sandal: DSW - $34.95

2) Exclusive Flat Sandal Gold: Target - $16.99

3) Mossimo Supply Company Whilhemina Flat Sandal: Target - $19.99

4) Mossimo Flat Gladiator T-Strap Sandal: Target - $19.99

5) Rosette Sandals: Forever 21 - $14.80

6) Serpent Sandal: Alloy - $14.90

7) Mrkt Holly Suede Sandal: DSW - $69.95

8) Xhiliration Teresa Espadrille Wedge Sandals: Target - $24.00

 9) Mootsie Tootsie Tinsy Platform Wedge Sandals: Kohl's - $34.99

During the summer I live in flat sandals.  I have to admit, I'm not a flip flop girl.  Flip flops are great at the beach but I don't wear them unless I'm around the pool or the ocean.  I prefer sandals with straps.Just because I love the flats doesn't mean I forgo the drama.  Extras like fun colors, tassels, rosettes, metallics, animal prints, and embellishments give me the fun without a heel. 

I hadn't planned to include any heels in this post.  My heart always gravitates toward the beautiful high heels but when I go to my closet, I come away with the flats.  That's why I love wedges and small platforms.  They feel higher but with more stability.  I can't do the 2 inch plus platforms.  My weak ankles take those as an invitation to kiss the ground.  I roll my ankle every time. But I thought I'd show you girls who love the flats, what I use as a compromise.  

I also hadn't planned to feature any shoes over $50 but I just had to include the Mrkt Holly Suede Sandal.  I bought this very sandal last summer in nude.  I love it!  The foot bed is soft, the platform and heel are forgiving which make them easy to walk in and stay in all day. This season DSW has them in cobalt and fuchsia. 

Are you buying new sandals this spring?  What is on your list?

Frugal Fashion Friday - Friday's Fancies Edition Budget Picnic

My blogger friend {av} of long distance loving, hosts a great link up each Friday.  It's called Friday's Fancies and each week there  is a theme.  Quite some time ago I did a Friday's Fancies post for Gal Time. It was so much fun, I decided that I would like to start doing it on a semi-regular basis.  This week the theme is Primped for a Picnic.  All I needed to do was to select a fun outfit to wear to a picnic.  Of course I had to do it Real Girl style and find great style for less.  I decided to select designer items and then find their duplicates for less. I've assembled the budget version. Just click the links below to see the designer inspirations. Since maxi dresses are a favorite spring and summer staple for me, I started with a great version.  A convertible maxi dress!

The Budget Versions

Dress
Designer - Butter by Nadia Jersey Wrap Gown (Cherry) $315
Budget - Target Mossimo Multi Style Convertible Maxi Dress (Florida Coral) $35
How can you go wrong with a maxi dress that can be wrapped and twisted to create 10 or more different looks? It's like getting 10 dresses in one! The Target version comes in eight colors.  I love Florida Coral and Bookoo Leaf.

Sandals
Designer - Giuseppe Zanotti Crystal Studded Toe Ring Thong (Turquoise) $650
Budget - Carlos by Carlos Santana Florida Flat Sandal (Parrot Blue) $49
Crystal studded flat sandals in a fun blue color.  They work with pants, shorts and dresses.  I love all of my flat sandals and live in them all summer.

Earrings
Designer - Ippolita Sterling Silver Cascade Earrings $495
Budget -   Paula's Oversized Silver Disc Charm Chandelier Earrings $28.95
Bright silver chandelier earrings are a little boho and always fun.  They go with everything from t-shirts to a beautiful dress. 

Ring
Designer - John Hardy Dragon Head Ring $795
Budget -  Giant Dragon Head Pewter Ring $13.57
I'm a huge fan of statement rings.  They are always conversation starters and they will never over power your outfit. 

Watch
Designer - Michael Kors Runway Two Tone Chronograph Watch $250
Budget - Vernier Two Tone Chrono Bracelet Watch $29.99
This watch is classic styling with the modern twist of mixed metals and the oversized look.  It's a watch that will be on your arm for years to come.

Sunglasses
Designer - Prada Arm Detail Sunglasses $290
Budget -  GirlPROPS Curlycue Big Lense Sunglasses  $17.99
I fell in love with these unique sunnies a while ago.  But the curly side and the "it" factor kept me from spending the big bucks. Lucky for me there is a great duplicate available.

Champagne
Designer - Dom Perignon $181.99
Budget -Nicolas Feuillatte Brut $22.99
Quite a few years ago a sommelier recommended this champagne to me.  He said it was one of his favorites and he liked it even better than Dom Perignon.  I was shocked but gave it a try.  Up until that point champagne wasn't my favorite but that was because I'd only had sparkling wine. I fell in love and now it's a staple at my house and parties. True champagne is from the Champagne region of France.  It's leaps better than any sparkling wine.


TOTALS
Designer    $2934.99
Budget         $197.49
Savings      $2737.50

An entire outfit for just a little more than the cost of the champagne alone!!!  Now that's budget shopping.

Happy Friday Real Girls!!!

Green Day

All shades of pastel are a spring trend but around St. Patrick's Day, all trend bets are off.  Even the non Irish got for the green.  This month, the blogger challenge from Everybody Everywear is "green".  The interpretation is up to each person.  I happen to love green and wear it often in many forms.  I thought I'd share some of my favorite green outfits and accessories.

Love combining bright colors!

Pink and green preppy combo, classic.

Minty green maxi and some toughness.

Green with prints and stripes.

My latest DIY, mint sunnies.

There are lots of St. Patty's Day activities going on in our area.  Including a huge party thrown by our  Congressman.  Will you be wearing green this weekend?

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?

Frugal Fashion Friday - My Spring Short List

I know I told you all that I'd be guest blogging on the DC Goodwill Fashionista today, well there was a bit of a mix up and I'll be guest blogging there next week.  Each season I create a list, a short one of items I really want to purchase.  The items may be a trend piece or a hole in my wardrobe. I keep the list in my phone. I can refer to it when I'm shopping and it helps me stay on track and reduces my impulse buying.  Also, if I know what I want, it's easy to keep an eye out at thrift stores and for online sales.  If you don't know what you need then it's hard to wade past all those wants and "Oh Those are Cute!".  I also include items like bras, undies and other foundations on the list, even though they aren't exciting. Here is my short list for spring 2012.  I've already snagged the pants, during my vacation this past week.

1) Yellow Blazer - I love the bright pop of color for work or play.
2) Wedge Sandals - I have a tan pair of sandal like, wedge, shoes (seen here) that I wore often last summer. I'd like another pair in a different style.
3) Studded and spiked bracelets - They toughen up a sweet summer look, especially pastels.
4) Bright pants - I wear black pants and jeans often.  A pair of brightly colored pants will brighten my wardrobe.  I found a pair almost this color last weekend at Goodwill!
5) Leopard heels - I have a pair of low leopard wedges. I'd love to find a comfy pair of heels that I can use to switch things up from my usual black.

What's on your short list?

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Wear the Trend - Orange You Lovely!

A month or so ago, Pantone issued their Spring 2012 fashion trend colors. The top color is Pantone color 17-1463, Tangerine Tango.  I love me some orange, whether it's peach, tangerine, salmon, or coral. Any color that has those orangey hues works for me.  I know you all don't feel that way but I'm here to tell you that anyone can rock orange. Even if you don't want to wear a top, pants or skirt in orange, you can incorporate it into your wardrobe.

Essie polish in Too Too Hot (no longer available)

Beach outfit, including orangey tank

There are so many easy way to incorporate orange into your wardrobe. If you aren't ready for a full outfit, you can try accessories like a bag or shoes. Try just one piece like a simple tee, even a cardigan.

Orange You Lovely by realgirlrunway featuring collezio watches

You can even go for orange lips, if you have the skin tone or orange nails.

Mary Kay Lip Color - Nourishine Lip Gloss in Mango Tango and Creme Lipstick in Sunny Citrus

Essie polish in Meet Me at Sunset

No matter what you chose, have fun with it!! You can wear the trend. Just make it work for you.

Moment of Lust - Vince Metallic Sweaters

Early this season, I published my picks for Spring and Summer. A sheer sweater for layering was on the list and is one of my faves. I'll be taking a few to the beach with me this summer for those cool evenings. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Vince metallic sweaters as a sheer sweater option. Summer sheer and shiny, how could you not love it?

Vince Metallic Sweaters - $320 and $199

With prices (even on sale) starting at $199, I doubt I will own one anytime soon. Of course that means I had to go in search of a budget RGR alternative. I didn't find any exact matches in my search but this option from Alloy is the perfect option for me and at $9.99 is $190 less than the least expensive Vince sweater. SCORE! The loose poncho style sweater top is also a breezy summer option. Throw it over a tank or even a bathing suit and you are ready to go.

Alloy.com Lillian Angel Top - $9.99

Sometimes You Just Need Flats

Many of you know that a few years ago I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. I'm managing it with medications, diet and exercise. However, pain is a part of it and some days I just don't feel like wearing heels. Luckily there are lots of great flats available.  My love affair with heels is deep and many days I'll wear flats into work and change into heels once I get there. Then change out of them when I leave. I'm not one to wear sneakers with my dress so I'm always on the hunt for stylish flats.

My friend Kim of the Frugal Fashionista and fabulous clothing swaps, asked me where she could find some cute and affordable flats. I went searching and found some favorites. They are all under $50 and many are under $30.


Click on the pictures to get "where to buy" information.

I've found some great Spring and Summer styles.  There are some work appropriate shoes as well as fun casuals and sandals.  There are even some flat sandals that are a great alternative to flip flops.

Spring Picks for the Budget Girl - The Mix

The beauty of the Spring Picks list is that you can mix and match these items to create outfits for all occasions. The March cover of Elle showed Katy Perry wearing some of the items on the list. If this outfit is too much of a mix of colors for you, try just one brightly colored piece.

Bold Colors, Obi Belt

Take a few classic pieces but give them a modern twist by adding a funky bangle and neutral booties.

White skirt, Breton Striped Top, Bangle, Cat Eye Sunglasses,
Lady Like Bag, Neutral Booties 

Keep your outfit from looking dated or like a costume by mixing eras. Your bohemian 70's inspired peasant top becomes edgy by adding some big metal bangles and wedge booties.

70's Inspired Top, Wide Leg Jeans, Biker Jacket, Bangles, Neutral Booties

Neutrals like a shirt dress, pants or skirt can take you anywhere. Your shirt dress can be summer office appropriate but dressed down for a backyard BBQ by adding flat sandals and tying the scarf at your waist.

Neutral shirt dress, Bright Scarf, Rose Gold Watch, Lady Like Bag, Bangles, Neutral Booties

A sheer sweater can take a short sleeve or sleeveless dress (or top) from day to evening. By adding an obi belt or sash, it can look intentional instead of like you are just cold.

Bright dress, Sheer Sweater, Rose Gold Earrings and Bracelet, Neutral Booties

By adding a biker jacket to this flowy maxi, it went from "sweet and girly" to a "tough and rocker".  The contrast lends a sense of modern cool to a sophisticated skirt.

Biker Jacket, Maxi Skirt, Neutral Tee, Scarf, Lady Like Bag

With just ten basic pieces and some inexpensive accessories, you can have a spring and summer of mix and match outfits. One of the things 30 for 30 reinforced for me was to be more adventurous. Try new combinations and test your style limits.