Summer Dreams

Like many east coast residents, I am so ready for winter to end and summer to begin. I'm a warm weather girl at heart and can't wait for cute summery shoes, evenings dining al fresco, and sunglasses. Maybe it's wishful shopping but my purchases lately have been all about warm weather.

clockwise from top left - 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 

All Dressed Up clutch - I love a big clutch. This one is 9"x13", which is perfect for me. It's a pouch, so it's easy to carry and I love the cheeky saying imprinted on both sides. It will be fun for day or evening.

Revlon Ultra HD Lipstick in Orchid - Fuchsia is always a go to color for me when it comes to lipstick. This new line from Revlon doesn't contain wax, it comes in lots of colors (Orchid is my fave) and I really like the creamy texture.

Silver Brow Bar sunglasses - Since the designer version was out of my price range, I snagged this look for less pair on Amazon. I also love the white and gold version.

Shay Lace Up Flats - I've been eying these flats for over a month now. I could decide if I should spend the money but I go to the site a few times a week to make sure they are still available. For some time they were only available in black and the gray version was just released. I had to snatch them up before they were gone.

Kaia Pendant Necklace - The Moroccan look of this necklace by Stella and Dot is perfect for summer. I picture it with a flowy, white top or a colorful sundress. The photo does not do it justice. The stones have a opalescent quality to them.

Metal graphic tee - I'm a sucker for a funny graphic tee. This one is so me. I'm a rocker girl to my core but I have a soft side. This tee will be a fun addition to my summer wardrobe or great under my tuxedo jacket for evening.

What items are on your spring/summer wish list?

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?

Music and Sun

On Saturday I attended my first music festival of the summer. I love festivals. You get the chance to see and hear lots of bands, in one place and usually for a bargain price. We went to the very first Ragtime Carnival at Pocahontas State Park in Chesterfield, Virginia (Richmond area). The festival was organized by one of my favorite bands, Carbon Leaf. The band and their music are very special to me. One of the first dates that {msL} and I went on was to a Carbon Leaf show. We also exited the church and our wedding ceremony to their song, Life Less Ordinary. The festival was two days (Friday evening and Saturday) but we only attended Saturday (Boo work). Sixteen bands played over the two day festival and there were two stages (main and a smaller acoustic stage). The organizers timed things so it was possible to hear all of the bands. We couldn't have asked for better weather. It was a beautiful day, warm in the sun and a slight breeze at times. There was no rain in sight. Comfort was the order of the day for my outfit. I chose a simple dress, a hat for sun protection, my trusty Birks and my new NECTAR sunnies.

 

Dress - Kohl's (No longer available), Shoes - Birkenstock (old style, similar here and here), Hat - Target (men's small), Sunglasses - c/o NECTAR, Bracelets - Stella and Dot (c/o Kristin Biggs), bracelet c/o People VIP and Klout, backup hairbands Goody double wear, and of course my band to buy beer. Earrings - gift, Rings - wedding band and MD Renaissance festival vendor (mid 90's)

There had been rain for two days before the festival. I was a bit worried the field might be a mud pit. I wore ankle boots into the show and once we were settled, I swapped them out for my sandals. I took my trusty bag (it doubles as my beach bag during the summer) with sunscreen, a few toiletries, bug repellent, and a collapsible water bottle.

On top of the perfect weather, the great company (I went with {msL} and my sister), the music was incredible. My sister said it best when she said, "At other festivals, there have been a few bands that I didn't love. That's not the case today. Every band and artist was fantastic. I loved them all!"

On our way (8am), coffee was required.

There were so many memorable moments from the day. I loved the easy going nature of the festival. The artists walked around the grounds, talked to fans and listened to other bands. I got to meet Terry Clark of Carbon Leaf! We share a birthday.

Terry posing with me before his final set.

I also got to meet Sarah Blacker. I'd never gotten to hear her play live before. She even thanked my sister and I for dancing during her set. She so talented and the coolest lady! Emerson Hart (founder of Tonic) played "If You Could Only See", acoustic. It was a nice surprise, since he's a solo artist now and doesn't play that song often. I loved hearing Crystal Bowersox live. She is such a soulful singer songwriter. Finding new favorites is one of the best parts of a festival. Delta Rae and The Wild Feathers are definitely on that list.

Carbon Leaf opening and closing the day.

Thanks to NECTAR Sunglasses, I got to shield my eyes from the sun all day. Their company motto is "Enjoy the Sweet Life".  Saturday was definitely the sweet life. It couldn't have been better. I had never heard of NECTAR before they offered me a pair of their shades to try. I immediately loved the classic shape and the mirrored lenses. They're seriously the lightest pair of sunglasses I've ever worn. Lots of times I will develop a headache from shades that are too tight or too heavy. I wore them all day and that didn't happen. Their prices are so reasonable (right up a real girl's alley). $20 for their standard pairs and $30 for polarized. You can also opt for their Fusion style, where you can swap out the ear pieces for $35. I am wearing the AMETHYST style. I'd love to also snag the RAYVE or the STOKE.

Good news for you! As an RGR reader, you can order your very own pair of NECTAR sunglasses, through this link. Use the code lovenectar at check out and you'll get 10% off of your order! Did I mention that shipping is free!?


NOTE: I was provided a pair of NECTAR sunglasses for review. My review is honest and the opinions expressed here are my own.

My Must List - Summer 2014

As my style has evolved and I've become more selective, my seasonal must lists become smaller. I'm more discerning about the pieces that I add to my wardrobe. If I'm going to spend the money, I want them to be quality pieces that will last. I save the super cheap purchases for trendy items. Now that doesn't mean that I pay full price for my long term purchases. I still look for the best price and the best value for my money.

photo credits: Pink Peonies, Getty Images, Ms Treinta

The images above scream summer to me. Sun, beach, warm weather, sandals, white, and bright colors are all the best of summer fashion. They inspired me to make a few updates and acquire a few new summer items.

Click the photos above to view buying information.

I've been obsessed with mirror sunglasses since I wrote this post two summers ago. I purchased a couple of bargain pairs last summer and then Ray Ban released some new mirror versions. These green aviators are fantastic. I might just have to take the plunge. You can't get more classic than Ray Ban aviators. A big tote has been my constant companion lately. It can hold everything. I love this Rebecca Minkoff MAB tote in hot pink. A great summer update to a classic shape. I've been loving lace up sandals but I knew a 4 inch high pair wouldn't get much wear. I tend to gravitate more toward my 2.5 inch heels and below. Lucky for me, over the weekend I scored a pair by Nine West at Nordstrom Rack. I posted a photo on Instagram. I'm in love! A super flowy maxi dress in a bright color is high on my summer must list. I love this trapeze style that can be worn loose or belted. I'm in desparate need of a new swimsuit. We live by the pool and at the beach all summer. My suits have seen better days and I've had a retro one piece style in mind. I love this one in white.

What is on your summer MUST list?

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.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Great Goodwill Finds

My love for Goodwill shopping is nothing short of legendary. I find all sorts of great items that I wear often and I also manage to buy the starters of awesome DIY projects. All for great prices. Case in point, the black sunglasses I used for my latest DIY. I've been lusting after a pair of pink sunglasses for some time now. When I saw these pink, sparkly sunglasses by Quay, I thought of the black pair I'd snagged at Goodwill last year. I knew I had to recreate them.

My sunglasses transformed by nail polish have turned out great before. I thought I'd try the same treatment for a pair of pink sunnies.

SUPPLIES

Sunglasses                                           $3 (Goodwill find)

Pink nail polish                                    $1 Full bottle $2 (already owned)

Clear nail polish                                   50 cents  Full bottle $3 (already owned)

_________________

TOTAL $4.50 (with tons of polish left over)

I painted  four coats of pink polish. I wanted the finish to be an opaque pink and very thick. Then I added two coats of clear.

Here they are, the finished product!

They will definitely be in heavy summer rotation.

It's more than funny that I'd planned this post today. I  combined a Goodwill find in one of my outfits and I posted it to Instagram and tweeted about it. Unbeknownst to me, my friend the DC Goodwill Fashionista, featured my outfit in her blog today! The blue Talbots silk blouse is one of my favorites and I snagged it at Goodwill for less than $5!! It's a great weekend to hit up your local Goodwill or other thrift store and score some great buys.

 

Happy Friday Real Girls!

.

Go Get Yourself Some Cheap Sunglasses

The DC area got another round of snow yesterday. It's March and we are only two days away from the first day of spring, people!  This is nuts!  Despite this cold and crazy weather, I can't stop thinking of warm weather and summer. I love sunglasses year round and have my fair share of designer pairs but when I'm at the beach, out on a friend's boat or doing any activity that might endanger my precious designer shades, I always go for cheap sunglasses. Here are a few fun pairs to check out for your summer fun. All of them cost less than $20!



Click on the photos for buying information.

I'm especially loving white sunglasses this year. I'd also love to snag a pink pair. I've selected styles to suit all sorts of face shapes. If you are unsure about ordering online, you can use a try-on app like this one from glasses.com and try on a pair with a similar shape. You can also buy your glasses from a place with a liberal return policy or free return shipping (like asos.com ).

Bring on the sun!

The title of this post is from the lyrics of the ZZ Top song, Cheap Sunglasses.

Moment of Lust - Karen Walker Soul Club Sunglasses

Karen Walker Sunglasses are all the rage in the blog world. I can definitely take a pass on most of them but when I saw the Soul Club version (black frame with a gold mirrored lens), I was smitten. However, I just couldn't see spending $220 on a pair. The only sunglasses that I own that I've paid full price for (in that range) are my Chanels and to me they were worth every penny. Lucky for me I found a very similar pair of Isaac Mizrahi sunglasses. I saw a pair at a discount store but passed on them because the lens was badly scratched. The original price was $99 but they were discounted to $40 (still too much for a scratched lens). I went home, searched the Internet and found a pair on eBay for only $10! SCORE!

 

photo credit upper left: eat.sleep.wear

Easy Update with Fall 2013 Accessory Trends

I don't believe in spending tons on trends and I love a good accessory. Great accessories can take wardrobe basics and turn them into an amazing outfit. By spending a small amount, you use this season's accessory trends to elevate your outfits.

 

I've selected just a few of my favorite trends. I love these items to fill that void because they rock the trend and are unique at the same time.

This spike necklace from Asos includes rhinestones for a pretty and tough punk look. Contrast trim and gold hardward turn this basic top handle bag into something special. The zippers on these elbow length leather gloves add a cool twist. The wide frame and rounded shape of these oversize cat eye sunglasses take them from traditional to modern. The color and versatility of these statement earrings made me fall for them. You can wear them as chandelier earrings or as studs by removing the dangle. Two in one, SCORE!  Oxfords are one on my favorite shoe styles. The oxblood color makes these perfect for fall. I own a couple of faux fur scarves. They can make a simple coat look more expensive but they are an inexpensive addition to your wardrobe. Go for a solid color like black or brown or a versatile print like this snow leopard.

All of these items are under $70 and are chic enough that you'll be able to wear them for years to come.

Accessories - Unexpected Sources

Accessories are the icing on the cake that is your outfit. They elevate a simple gray t-shirt to evening wear status or turn a tulle skirt into day wear. Shopping for accessories is something I do constantly. The best part is finding them in places that you wouldn't consider typical.

Drugstore sunglasses
One of my favorite pairs of sunglasses and that recieve lots of compliments came from Walgreens. These sunglasses are Foster Grant and cost just $12! This style is no longer available from Foster Grant but these are similar.

{msL} and I at the beach last year, both pairs are drugstore shades

Hardware Store jewelry
Rope bracelets have been really popular in past years. I love a good DIY and I constantly look for fun new projects. I've made bracelets from rope, wire, and other hardware. Last year our beach trip turned rainy so I made a trip to the hardware store for copper wire. I made lots of rings and toe rings for the girls.

Airport gift shop scarves
I have a bit of a scarft problem. I've collected pashmina like scarves in every color. They are great for polishing an outfit. Somehow I always think a woman looks more chic wearing a scarf. My best find for these inexpensive scarves is airport gift shops.  They usually sell them in every color and for about $10. Score!

What is your favorite unexpected spot for accessories?


photo credit (scarves bottom): the gloss

Frugal Fashion Friday - Making the Most of Seasonal Sales

The stores are full of sales right now. They are clearing out their spring and summer items to make room for fall and winter. It's the perfect time to grab items that you can wear now but also transition to fall. Two of my favorite stores for sales and items are Talbots and Nordstrom.  They both carry clothing in all size ranges and items that appeal to all styles and ages. I could have filled pages and pages with items I'd love to own but here are just a few of my favorites.

 

I've been in love with these House of Harlow 1961 Chelsea sunglasses for ages. It's rare to find them on sale. Nordstrom just posted this color for $91. This flowy blouse is light enough for a summer evening but edgy with the added faux leather collar and cuffs. Wear it now with some shorts or later with pants. I had to throw in this awesome skull wrap bracelet. I love them, no matter the season. I rarely wear shorts, except for cut offs at the beach. I would consider wearing these longer Bermuda shorts and they'd even look cute when the weather begins to cool, with a blazer. Converse are seasonless and this edgier version with studs is great. I've been looking for a neutral tote. This Michael Kors design is sophisticated and versatile. Full skirts are flattering on all body types. I would wear this one with a graphic tee now and with a pretty sweater later. These printed pants will transition well from summer to fall. Just change up the topper and your shoes. You can also dress them up or down. There are so many ways to transition items from summer to fall. With just a change in the pieces you pair the item with, you can take it from warm weather to cool weather.

If you order, make sure to save even more by using a site like ebates.com. Ebates will pay you a cash % for each of your purchases. Just go to ebates before you shop, create an account and a select that retailer.  Also, search for free shipping or discount codes for your shopping by goggling the store name and discount code or free shipping.

Have you been eyeing any fun items during all of the sales?

DIY - Black and Gold Sunnies (nail polish diy #2)

Last year I did a little DIY sunglasses post using nail polish.  It's one of my most popular posts to date. After lots of requests, here is nail polish sunnies DIY, number two.  I spied these sunglasses and knew they were just begging for a DIY. I found a pair of black, plastic sunglasses and grabbed my gold nail polish.

photo credit: eatsleepwear

SUPPLIES

Sunglasses $9.99

Gold nail polish $.50 Full bottle $3 (already owned)

Clear nail polish $.50 Full bottle $5 (on sale but already owned)

Nail polish remover

Cotton swab

_________________

TOTAL $10.99 (with tons of polish left over)

Kenneth Cole Sunglasses       $90

SAVED $79.01!!

I've searched high and low and can't find the inspiration sunglasses anywhere.  Kenneth Cole sunglasses average about $90 a pair.  With a little nail polish and about an hour of your time, you can create your own!

I started by taping off the frame with blue painter's tape.  You could use any type of tape that you have, as long as it's not super sticky. I think painter's tape is best because it doesn't leave any residue.  After taping off the frame, I wiped the area I wanted to paint with a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover.  This helps the polish to adhere better. Then I started painting.

I applied three very thin coats, using Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear polish in Golden-I. It has a great metallic sheen without being glittery.  Once I was happy with the coverage of the gold polish and it was dry to the touch, I painted two coats of clear polish and removed the tape.

I'm very happy with the result. My DIY sunnies look very similar to the higher end pair and they will definitely be coming with me on my beach trip next week.



inside shot



full sun shot (lipstick - Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids in Shocking Coral, Necklace - Target no longer available)

Frugal Fashion Friday - Summer Beach Style Under $20

Every year I look forward to our family beach trip. Over the years I've learned that less is more and items that do double duty are the best. I live in swimsuits, sandals and easy dresses.  Our days are spent on the beach and afternoons and evenings are spent hanging out with the family at the beach house. There is no need for fancy outfits. I enjoy the ease of a sundress and a few simple pieces of jewelry. In case you're headed to the beach this summer, here are a few of my favorite items.



Click the photos above for buying details.

 

A simple wide brimmed sun hat is mandatory for me at the beach.  I wear tons of sunscreen but I also wear a hat. Years ago I bought a wide brimmed straw hat like this one and it is my go to hat for the beach every year. Reading this article in W just confirmed that I'm on the right track when it comes to sun protection. In addition to my hat, I always wear sunglasses, they look great and protect my eyes. This pair looks a lot like a designer pair that costs $138. At $9.99 these are a great deal and they have 100% UVA/UVB protection.

This maxi dress from Old Navy can be worn to the beach or out in the afternoon. You can even change it up by added a belt or a scarf. Multiple wears and less stuff in your suitcase.  A cover up and an evening sundress all in one. Just from their name you know the Double Wear Floating Beaded Elastics from Goody do double duty.  They can be worn on your wrist as a bracelet and when you need to put your hair up, there they are. Pretty and functional. I own three pairs of simple sandals from Kohl's that I purchased almost 10 years ago. I wear them all summer and they've held up well.  They don't make the style I own any longer but these sandals from LC by Lauren Conrad come in ten different colors.  You can wear them to the beach and then out later.

Pretty earrings, like these from Stella and Dot, are a must have for me at the beach.  They are easy to throw on, no matter my hair style and they don't stick to my sweaty summer skin.  They can elevate a simple dress, like the maxi and make it look a bit fancy. Bonus, they are on sale for half price! Pretty toes are also a must for me at the beach.  I love a bright color like this coral.

I always attach a watch to my beach bag. I could sit in the sun all day but it's not good for me. Knowing the time, helps me be smart about my sun exposure. This watch is chic enough to wear out but if something happened to it at the beach, I wouldn't be upset. Speaking of beach bags, this tote from Target is fun and easy to haul to the beach with my sunscreen and magazines.  It's cotton and isn't lined, sand will be easy to shake out and you can wash it without worry. Hydration is important when you are in the sun.  This water bottle from UncommonGoods will save the planet from disposable bottles and infuse your water with flavor.

Can you believe that every item is less than $20!?  Just proving that great beach style doesn't have to cost a fortune.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Mirror Metallics

My love of silver and other metallics is no secret. I even painted a table silver. A pair of bedside tables are next. I'm especially in love with mirror metallics.  I love how they stand out, make a statement but still go with everything.  Metallics are neutral.  You would never think of whether or not you can wear a silver or gold necklace with a specific color top or dress.  It's the same with a metallic shoe or bag.  I wear my mirror silver oxfords constantly and I'm dying for a pair of flats or a cute low heel.

Click above for buying information.

You can even wear silver mirror nails. I love the version by Jamberry. I did a review of them in September. I love that they last a long time and don't dry out. You can get several manicures from one set of Jamberry nails.

More mirror metallic items are on my want list.  I'm loving the ankle strap low heels and the mirror clutch.

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?

Frugal Fashion Friday - GOLD Rush under $50

Normally gold isn't my first choice but this week I spied the sweater below and then did a little window shopping on the Stella & Dot website.  There are some amazing gold pieces in their new collection.  Since it's Friday, I thought I'd stick with our frugal theme and find some great gold items under $50.

Cross body bags are a weekend staple for me.  At under $15 this one from Target is perfect.  These statement earrings from Stella and Dot are amazing! They're gold but I love that it's almost an accent to the creamy stones and the rhinestones. Over the summer I scored a pair of sunglasses almost exactly like these from Urban Outfitters. They are a fun alternative to my standard black frames. The gold beads of this Stella and Dot necklace look like stones and I love that it compliments the Foundation bracelet (with tiny green stones) without looking too matchy matchy. This green and gold cocktail ring from Stella and Dot is equal parts vintage and cool.  All of the Stella and Dot pieces work well together.  The chunky heel and cap toe of these blue suede pumps make them look like a pair my Mom owned in the 60's.  The bright blue is fun.  I've been on the hunt for a new iPhone case.  These used combined or alone create five different looks.  The cut out gold cover is so sophisticated.

Searching for all of these fun items has given me a new appreciation for gold.  Do you love gold?

Happy Friday Real Girls!

I'm Obsessed Thank You Very Much - Mirrored Aviator Sunglasses

Many years ago, I spent some of the money that I'd earned baby sitting on my first pair of "designer" sunglasses.  I bought a pair of gold framed Ray-Ban Aviators.  I loved those sunglasses and took good care of them until they bit the dust one day while I was on a friend's boat.  I had them on the top of my head as I bent over the side and I could only watch as they quickly sank to the bottom.  A friend even tried retrieving them but the river water wasn't exactly the crystal clear ocean of the Caribbean and they were gone.

Click on the pictures above for details.

Aviators are a classic style and they look surprisingly great on almost every face shape.  I'm especially loving the mirrored versions that are cropping up lately.  I scored a great pair of Foster Grants at Walgreens for just $12. You've seen those in my beach pictures.  I just bought another pair at Target.  The frames are black and the lenses are a orange and pinkish red mirror (top left above), just $12. Next on my list are the Ray-Bans with interchangeable lenses.  An investment but I'll really be buying three pairs of sunglasses.  Fantastic!

Inspired By Pinterest - Saw Pinned Conquered Link Up

I love a good DIY and get inspiration from all sorts of places. Last week I got an email from Amy of At the Pink of Perfection and fellow CapFABB member. She said she was going to be hosting a new link up for folks who make things from Pinterest called Saw Pinned Conquered. Well you know I had to join in.  This week I thought I'd show a recap of the items inspired by Pinterest, that I have created. To be honest, I didn't have time for a new project this week. In the coming weeks, I'll show you new items during the link up.

Minty Shades - Made using nail polish

A Gold Cup/Derby Hat - Inspired by British fascinators from Pinterest

Glitter Mani

Mercury Glass Candle Holders for Our Wedding - Using spray paint and thrift store glass

Metallic Skull - dupe for a $349 skull

I'm constantly finding new items to create and fun ideas on Pinterest. Pinning is addictive and my idea wish list far outweighs the items I've created.  I'm sure I'll be making more soon.  Be sure to check out the items that Amy and the other ladies have created on At the Pink of Perfection.

Frugal Fashion Friday - Beach Trip Style

Today's Friday's Fancies challenge is beach style.  I knew I could come up with great style on a budget for our upcoming beach trip to the Outer Banks of North Carolina.  It's an awesome family trip that I look forward to every year.  I try not to over pack but still have great style.  Today's outfit fits that bill in full retro style and for a bargain.

Beach Chic by realgirlrunway featuring a slimming swimwear

Retro Swimsuit, $33
Flat thong sandals, $36
Sequin tote bag, $21
Stella & Dot black pearl bangle, $22
Stella & Dot pave jewelry, $24
Chiffon Maxi Cover-Up, $25
Silver and White striped sun hat, $23
Rounded Cat Eye Sunglasses!, $5.99
L'Oreal Sublime Sun Advanced Sunscreen Hydra Lotion Spray SPF30 $11
La Roche Posay Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid., $30
Spoiled Nail Color Shrimp On The Barbie, $1.49

I've had a retro style swimsuit on my list for a few summers.  This year, I might actually buy one.  A retro halter suit with runching is flattering to all body types. I never hit the beach without a great hat.  It's stylish, I don't have to think about my hair and it's a great way to keep wrinkles at bay by protecting my face from the sun. A few simple pieces of jewelry are it for me at the beach.  Stud earrings like these from Stella & Dot are pretty and won't get in the way when you are active.  The stretch bracelet is easy to slide off before you get in the water.  Fun retro shades are definitely on the bill.  I love sunglasses and own way too many pairs but these are only $5.99 from GirlPROPS.  You can afford to own more than one pair.  I always take a book, my towel, water and extra sunscreen to the beach, this sequin bag is perfect for a fun way to tote your stuff.  Cute sandals and pretty toe nails are always on the bill for my beach trips.  I love this pink and orange shimmery polish. The name cracks me up: Shrimp on the Barbie, Spoiled by Wet n' Wild.

You've read my tirades before about using sunscreen and protecting your skin. I look for bargains everywhere but I never skimp when it comes to sunscreen, especially for my face. I can replace a suit or pair of flip flops but once you get wrinkles or melanoma, you can't go back. I've taken the Sun Savvy pledge and wear sunscreen every day and even more at the beach. Most people don't apply sunscreen correctly or often enough.  This site has great tips. Don't worry you'll still get a great tan.  

Nothing on this list is over $40!  Great bargain style finds for any beach.

Do you have beach or pool plans?  It's supposed to be over 100 all weekend here in DC.  I think I'll be trying out my beach style this weekend.

Happy Friday Real Girls!

Poolside and Oceanfront - Bargain Style Picks

We are hosting a backyard grad pool party next weekend and of course I'm already thinking about my outfit.  As one of the hosts, I want to look stylish, a little dressy but be comfortable.  We'll be hosting lots of parties this summer and we have our summer beach trip in July.  I wanted my selections to last through the summer and beyond.  Of course, I go for quality as well as a good price.

Poolside and Oceanfront Style

1. Cover-up -  I usually choose a sarong but I'd love to grab a fun new maxi cover up. This one is colorful and pretty but not too heavy. 
2. Earrings - Big earrings are a fun way to wear jewelry to the beach or pool without it weighing you down. These coral inspired gold earrings from Stella & Dot fit with the beach vibe.
3. Sun hat - I love large brimmed hats for the beach and pool. They look great, hide your beach hair, and keep the sun off of your face.  I have a had from the San Diego hat company that I've owned for more than 10 years.  I'd love to get one in another color.
4. Bracelet - I don't wear tons of jewelry to the beach or pool but this stretch version from Stella & Dot will slide off easily before you jump in the water.
5. Swimsuit - I've never been a bikini girl so this retro suit is perfect for me.  It's sexy but covers in a great way.  It's available is sizes 2 - 26!
6. Beach bag - I don't need a bag when I run out to the backyard pool but it's a must for our vacation.  I LOVE our LL Bean canvas bags.  They are affordable, stylish and indestructible.
7. Flip flops - I confess that rubber flip flops are one of my least favorite type of footwear.  I do wear them when I am running around the pool or going to beach. I don't have to worry about sand or dirt and I can rinse them off easily. The beading on this pair give them a bit of flair.
8. Sunscreen - I'm a bit pushy with my family and friends about using sunscreen. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than sunburn. I also know people who have had skin cancer scares.  Also, I wear it without fail.  I love being outside and in order to protect myself and ensure that I preserve the great skin I was born with, sunscreen is mandatory. Neutrogena products are some of my favorite. Last summer I also fell in love with Supergoop wipes. They are towelettes coated in sunscreen. Genius!
9. Sunglasses - I'm a bit of a slut when it comes to sunglasses. I love them and own way too many. My designer pairs are my favorites but they don't go to the beach with me.  I take a pair that I can wear into the water and not care if they get scratched in the sand.  This pair from GirlPROPS is only $4.99!

What are you picks for staying stylish in the sun and by the water?