I’m not the biggest fan of the term “real girl” (because I think models and actresses – in spite of their above average looks – deserve the respect of being recognized as “real” too), but for those of us who don’t have a paid glam squad on hand to style us into fabulousness, the trend lists can be daunting. Sure “boyfriend” jeans and jackets are in, but so are “boho” dresses, “’80s pop colors,” “aggressive accessories” and gladiator sandals. How does one pull it all together in a look that doesn’t feel too fashion victim-y? I found inspiration from Bluefly’s buyers.

Our buyers have distinctly different styles, so seeing how they translated the “boyfriend” trend was illuminating. Kate (far left) is hipster chic, so she paired a boyfriend tee by Torn with a vest and wore it over leggings and flat gladiator sandals. Joanna (next to Kate) likes to mix and match classic pieces with statement accessories and killer outerwear (she’s the coats buyer, of course), so she rocked a cropped leather bomber with a bright purple tee by LnA in a nod to classic ’80s style. Sandy (standing next to Joanna) keeps it boho chic, so she chose a Wildfox Couture tee with a hippie-inspired graphic, while Jessica (far right), always luxe and on-trend, pulled a jacket-to-jeans boyfriend look together complete with aggressive cut-out platforms by Pour La Victoire.

The Style Note here is: Find the individual trend piece(s) that jive with your style, then mix and match them with what you’ve already got to update your look.d

I’m big into 70’s-inspired clothing for fall. Wave good-bye to your skinny jeans and get ready for some easy, pretty fall fashion.

There’s something really romantic and pretty about 70’s-inspired looks. Just check out how hot the cast of the original Charlie’s Angels looked.

Ready to travel back in time? Try these looks on for size.

1. This loose chiffon blouse brings to mind the easy-breezy looks of the 70’s.
2. I adore these wide-leg, high-waisted jeans. Perfect vintage style at a great price.
3. Bangles add a bit of rock-and-roll.
4. Sky-high green wedges add a modern color to a decades-old style.

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I love those spreads in fashion magazines that detail, “A Month of Style!” with a photo for every day’s ideal outfit taken from a gigantic wardrobe of things to pick and choose from.

Alas, I am not wealthy enough to afford to buy their wardrobe suggestions. $300 for a dress? Not gonna happen! I’d like to have a settled career, thanks, before I start spending large chunks of rent and food money on clothing. As fun as that is, a girl’s gotta eat!

My thought was to re-create the same idea: a week of fashion, made from a few simple items, but all affordable. Mind-blowing, right?

Day One – Bohemian Chic

Pair these great (and cheap) sandals from Forever 21 with a Lux skirt by Urban Outfitters and a top from Delias.

Why should you wear this? It’s got a great, “oh-this-old-thing” casual look, but still looks like you took time in choosing your appearance.

To mix it up – Add a bright colored scarf, a couple gold bangles or hoops or a light, loose jacket.

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