31 January 2014

Lilly Spring 2014

#HoorayForSpring

Okay so it's a little early to be talking about spring, unfortunately. On the other hand, it's always sunny when there's Lilly and guess who released Spring 2014 this past week? Just when I needed relief from this Polar Vortex, the beautiful spring prints and dresses became available to look at online. 

York Fit & Flare

AshLynn Keyhole Maxi
Iona Shell
Skipper Printed Popover


Marlissa Strapless Maxi

 I love the colors this spring- pinks and purples and blues. So pretty and.. well, springy! I love the options that
aren't shifts. Yes, call me crazy but I have enough shift dresses from Lilly and have been looking to change it up a little bit, and I'm so glad that the maxis are offered in such perfect prints! I also love the printed popover because you can never have too many 1/2 zips :-) 

I've never bought a shell from Lilly, but there are two prints in the Iona and they are gorgeous. I'm imagining them with white jeans or shorts this spring and summer, both looks I'd love to try out. Since I've never bought a shell before, any opinions on how they fit/ are they a good buy?

This week's release was just a "preview", as more looks will probably become available throughout the spring months. From the looks of it, Lilly would be so proud of the company she poured so much of herself into. I will most definitely be taking a trip to my closest Lilly store (which is 3 hours away...Ugh the Midwest) hopefully soon to see these marvelous prints in person.

p.s. I looked through the new arrivals and added everything I like to my shopping tote....... uh $650 later I think I'll be saving up for a while for those beauties

30 January 2014

In Defense of the Photoshoppers



The crazy amount of photoshop that is used by magazines and designers has caught a lot of attention recently from different groups wanting to stop body hate for young women.

And, while I don't disagree with the fact that sometimes photoshop is used when it isn't needed, I think it's a little ridiculous to fight the ad companies on this one. Because, let's be honest- there's an image that sells and companies aren't going to stop doing what brings in revenue. Designers have a distinct look they're going for, and if a tattoo or pimple doesn't quite meet that look... *photoshop*. Also, let's take the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show into account (just because that's probably the most guilt-provoking events of the year) - those models are naturally built with long, lean bodies. They're toned and fabulous with or without touchups. Oppositely, beauty and perfection can be "taken away" digitally, too. A la Tom Ford or Marc Jacobs, the darker more edgy look isn't always met by the It Girl models... so they add the edge- darker, yellowed skin, tattoos, that sexy tired eye. There's only so much makeup can do to match any given idea or "look". That look is what agencies look for, so those naturally graced with the genetics that Sell book the modeling jobs. 

Because of these factors, I really don't see photoshopping as bad. Yes- I'm more likely to buy something if it looked good in the picture. If the clothing didn't sit right, didn't have the desired shape, or just didn't look right on the model then it definitely won't look right on me. I already know that I don't have a model's body, but I'll have higher hopes of clothing/makeup/etc looking right on me if it looks good on someone else. That's just the truth and I can't be the only one who thinks this because I've witnessed "outfit stealing" between girlfriends or peers. If we like the way it looks on someone else there's a better chance we'll try it on ourself. 

I've also read where models apparently "don't like being photoshopped". I totally understand this if it's a major job that would require plastic surgery, but defining abs or jaw lines and removing blemishes... who wouldn't want that? Even the most beautiful women have insecurities and there's no way they want them shown off to the world. If I were an underwear model, I'd want rockin' abs and awesome legs without starving myself or spending my days at the gym.

I may be the only girl who supports digital retouching, and so be it. Obviously, I think it's important to live a healthy lifestyle and to understand that the images we see in ads aren't realistic- so we shouldn't kill ourselves over some stretch marks or a few extra pounds. In fact, photoshopping allows for our oh-so "unhealthy" models to be healthier. Eat more and worry about fitting in a size 00 less, because photoshopping can perfect the image that's desired. Yeah, yeah maybe I'm missing the point and the who point of this movement is to have a more realistic outlook on our bodies. But hey, skinny sells and until that's changed we have to accept that technology is going to take the place of anorexia. And I don't see that as a bad thing....

29 January 2014

Wish List Wednesday: Beautiful Books


I've been making a huge point to read more.

Instead of sitting on my phone in the (awkward) time between classes or looking through my Tumblr feed before bed, I've been making myself read. With my new iPad, it's been so easy to download a book and have it with my at all times- there's something about reading on my iPhone that I just didn't like. I still love the look and feel of actual books and make sure I have at a physical book to read at all times, too. So, yes, I am the girl who might be reading 2 or 3 books at a time... plus my assignments. 

One might think that I'd get sick of reading so much but that is so so wrong. In fact, I'm never not adding new books to my GoodReads "To- Read" list or my Amazon wishlist. Oyster makes it too easy to see and book and download it right then and there for free (or a pre-paid fee but still...). But, with everything moving to digital, I have this fear that I won't have a library in my future home. What if I don't have a room full or great books and coffee tables stacked with inspiring coffee-table books? I know I'm being a bit dramatic, but there's no doubt that we aren't approaching a paperless age.

I guess that means that my recent obsession with coffee-table books and pretty covers is just me planning ahead... right? Even though I don't have a coffee table and I've run out of room on my bookshelves at home, my wish list keeps growing. Here are some that I'm loving right now.

recent obsession with Chanel... 

Fitzgerald + Metallics... so much is right in this

THIS
new obsession with Grace too...

still haven't bought this one yet

I could go on and on and on. 
The way I justify this love of mine is that books open up worlds to me- they make me a better, more well rounded woman. Unlike watching TV or being on my phone, my parents love that I love to read. 

I love getting lost in a world and I can only pray that paper will make it long enough for me to build a house and have the greatest personal library









28 January 2014

Sunny & 75

It's gotten to the point that 27 degrees feels comfortable and walking to class in anything above 0 degrees makes for a good morning...

which is ridiculous. I know I've been complaining about the cold so much on here and every other form of social networking. So I'm sorry. But I'm not. Because this is like living in my own little Hell. Luckily I've been blessed with warm socks, boots, and coats... and I have an excuse to wear these adorable Kate Spade gloves that I got for Christmas. But, that doesn't mean I'm not longing for sunshine and sun dresses. Enter, my vacation plans!


This just in: I'm going to Pasadena, CA for spring break! This is going to be the first spring break I've had in a very long time that I'm not going to just be on the beach... and I'm kind of excited! My cousin has kindly agreed to let me become one of his students for a week. Yes, that means that I'll still be "going to school" for my spring break, but it's in California. But I'm still looking for some fun things to do while I'm there...
the Ellen Show
Rodeo Drive
Homes of the Rich and Famous Tour
Shopping
Hiking
West Coast Eating

I'm definitely more of a East Coast/ Southern type girl, but a week on the West Coast will do no wrong. I'm determined to try In-N-Out and all the other stereotypical California things! I certainly am doing my research, but I'd love to hear any other ideas for my spring break trip.

What are your LA/ Pasadena "must dos"?

27 January 2014

The September Issue

Yes, I am aware that this documentary is old but that doesn't make it any less good

The September Issue was filmed in preparation for the 2007 Vogue September Issue, the magazine's largest issue each year. It's referred to as the "Bible" of the fashion world and is put into planning six months before it actually goes to print. Each year, the issue grows- the largest being 2012's 900+ page magazine. Full of huge spreads and some of the best articles Vogue has ever put out, it's a big deal.


Knowing this, I figured it was about time that I sit down and see this film for myself. And it didn't disappoint. Anna Wintour, of whom "The Devil Wears Prada" was written, didn't disappoint- she was just as opinionated and determined as I had been expected. Her trademark hairstyle and sunglasses rule the fashion world, as was apparent in the documentary. But I came away from these two hours with great respect for another leading lady who doesn't quite get the recognition that she should:

Grace Coddington. She's the stylist and creative director of American Vogue. Yeah. She's a huge deal. She runs the biggest shoots for each issue and is one of the few stylist who still is willing to get on her hands and knees to physically style a model to her liking. She was a model until she was in an accident that ended that career. Luckily, she found her place at Vogue and graces the pages with her fantastic, creative eye.

She's also the only person brave enough to stand up to Anna. She isn't afraid to advocate for her ideas and views, even when she has Anna's harsh words on her mind. The documentary captured this pretty well, and made me respect Grace so much more. She's the kind of powerful, passionate woman that I hope to become- one who isn't afraid to stand up against perhaps one of the most powerful women in fashion and tell her that she is wrong. It's incredible, and I am forever a Grace Coddington fan now.


If you're into fashion, history, or Vogue, I highly recommend taking a couple hours to watch The September Issue. Even if it isn't your forte (which I'd hope it is at least a bit... since you're reading this blog), Vogue is such a well-known name around the world and the process of putting it together is fascinating! So much work, time, and heart is put into these historical September Issues each year and I'll definitely appreciate each that I get in the coming years. 

24 January 2014

Let's Take A Moment....

to appreciate Ralph Lauren's most recent masterpiece: the 2014 US Olympic Team Uniforms.



I love the Olympics, so much. I get so excited and I watch the Opening and Closing Ceremonies with the intensity that I watch any sporting event. I love how the host countries always show off. I love seeing the very fit men from around the world while envying the very fit women. But, when it comes to the ceremonies, it's the outfits that everyone looks at. The All-American designer and brand has been in charge of this for as long as I can remember and I always love seeing what Ralph does. In true winter fashion, the outfits are warm- hats, sweaters, and scarves.

Luckily (or rather, un-luckily), most of the apparel is available on the Ralph Lauren website. These definitely aren't the most inexpensive winter-weather alternatives, but they sure are fun! The blazer/jacket isn't something I'd actually buy, but it sure is fun! The sweaters, scarves, and hats, on the other hand, might just have to find their way into my closet.





How can you not love the classic look? I think I had a tshirt that closely resembled the first sweater when I was younger. The scarf and long sleeve are both really calling my name... big time.

Are you loving anything from the collection?


23 January 2014

Valentine's Day

I'm not sure how I feel about the looming Valentine's Day, and seeing the aisles of pink and red candy at the store today definitely didn't help.

I guess it's because I haven't really had a memorable Valentine's Day in a while, but I just try not to get any hopes up. I'm not expecting flowers or grand gestures. I'm not counting on getting asked on a date, and I'm not planning to pressure any guys into any of this either. In fact, if Mother Nature would love me and give me 80 degrees and sunny that'd be a good enough February 14 for me! 

But, my lack of significant other doesn't mean that I'm left out of the mailing lists and posts about great gifts and ways to treat your love. And I can't help but at least look at it all- because one day I'll be married and always have a Valentine. There are no bitter thoughts right now, just some wishful thinking and a lot of lusting over the beautiful red and pink items from my favorite stores. 

/Tory Burch/


/Kate Spade



/Sephora/


/Pink by Victoria's Secret/

/Marc by Marc Jacobs Beauty/

Of course, I'm always a fan of chocolate, too ;-) I'm just saying that, if I were a guy shopping for my girl, this is what I'd be looking at! Everything is cuter in a bright pink, and a pick-me-up is certainly necessary after all this dreary and cold weather.

It's almost better to have no expectations and rock pink & red anyways! 

22 January 2014

#BoilerStrong


Oh my goodness, I don't even know where to begin. You know, these things happen and you hear about them on the news. You say a quick prayer and go about your day. Maybe you contact a few loved ones... but it's always someplace else. Or that's what I thought, at least. Until yesterday. 

For those who haven't been informed, Purdue University was the most recent victim of school shootings. I'm in shock and disbelief. One, because I had a class in the area of the shooting that let out at 11:45... calls about the gunshots came in at around 12:06. Two, I've never experienced such emotions before in my life. At first, I reacted like my insensitive self and didn't believe that it was really an issue. But the news kept coming in, friends were texting me from around the country, and I found out that an innocent TA was killed. I changed from insensitive to terrified in about 2 seconds. I was in lecture, but nobody was paying attention. Phones were buzzing and, all the sudden, I felt this overwhelming sense of support.

Support for the family of the victim. Support from and for my fellow Boilermakers. Support from friends and family. Even my hairdresser texted asking if I was okay! As a community of students, we organized a vigil last night and were there for each other. We had press-conference watching parties and recounted stories. And, just like any tragedy, it brings about a sense of love and togetherness. It wasn't weird to walk up to a random group and ask to walk together (and it shouldn't ever be weird, in my opinion, but it is). We became a community of support and love.

My thoughts and prayers go out to the sole victim who must be devastated by their loss, but I also thank God that only one life was lost in something that could have been much worse. At this point, I couldn't be more proud of my Boilermaker family and to be a part of such a fantastic school. We will not let this stop us from being #BoilerStrong 

21 January 2014

Reasons to Love Winter... A Reminder

I am so over the cold already...

which is unsettling, since it's only January 21 and I have a good 2-3 more months of cooler, winter-like temperatures. That's 2-3 more months of socks, boots, sweaters, and wishing for the beach. Of course, in true Sarah fashion I decided that the best way to talk myself out of hating the winter is to make a "Pros" list. No cons. Only the good- a list of all that I love about the winter. 

The more I thought about the list, the more I realized that winter isn't that bad. Yes, having to wear a million layers is annoying and getting out of bed is the hardest thing I have to do each day. I just need to remember that this cold won't last forever. Some day, I hope to live someplace where it's warmer than Indiana... but as long as I'm stuck here I'll make the best of it!

What are your favorite aspects of the colder months?

20 January 2014

Getting into Routine

With the start of classes and spring semester, I can only sum life up in two words: organized chaos.

Yes, this is a contradiction but it's a very accurate contradiction. My schedule is completely different from last semester- I start later and get out earlier, but I don't have as many breaks in my day. I'm trying to add a few clubs and gym time into my schedule, while establishing a routine blogging schedule as well. I'm taking fewer hours of class and supplementing with many more hours of campus involvement. My classes that I am taking are much more challenging and time-consuming than last semester... and it's only week two!

Because of the anticipated chaos of this semester (my planner is already overwhelming and I don't even have assignments written down yet), I'm not sure what exactly is going to happen to this blog. Of course, I will work to establish a schedule so that anyone reading will know days/times to look for new posts- I'm thinking Mon-Fri will be regular new posts with Saturday & Sunday posts if I'm really feeling the need. Additionally, I'm thinking about making posts that basically walk you through life and what's going on here at Purdue and in my activities... a look into my day or week. Of course, you can expect me to write about the usual Fashion Week favorites, Spring Break prep, etc. with a few more YouTube videos thrown in, too!

Who knows what this semester has in store for me. I'm still trying to figure out this whole college thing: class, extracurriculars, boys, profs. It's all jumbled at this point in time, but hopefully I'll be able to continue chipping away at the brick surrounding the woman that I want to be, while forming a niche both on campus and in the giant worldwide web!

I want to thank you for your support and for even opening up my blog to read! I'm hoping to survive this chaos and get back on track soon, so thank you for being patient as I figure this semester out!


17 January 2014

Winter Wardrobe

It's cold out. It's really cold and snowy and windy.

I didn't like this weather when I lived at home and drove everywhere, so I certainly am not a fan of it now that I have to walk miles in it on a daily basis. The winter makes it hard to figure out what to wear- I need to be warm enough to not freeze on my walk to class, but layer enough to not melt once I'm in class. Yes, it's a daily dilemma and the fact that Indiana temperatures have been between -30 and 50 in the past two weeks doesn't make figuring it all out any easier.

So, then what have I been wearing? Sweaters. Lots of sweaters. Sweaters over turtlenecks and oxford shirts. Vests and big sweatshirts. Under a bigger coat. I'm silently thanking my parents every day for my Bean Boots and they are absolutely perfect for this weather!

via Classy Girls Wear Pearls

via Classy Girls Wear Pearls

via TooPrepToFunction

I wish I had the motivation to wear more than leggings or jeans and sweaters, but comfort and warmth is the only way I'm going to trek to class, so comfort and warmth it is. I'm constantly looking for new ideas on how to switch up this "uniform" of sorts, because I've unfortunately got a few months left of this weather...

all I want is to wear my Lillys and Jacks again! 

15 January 2014

Decor, Decor

So, I've come across some very dangerous decor items/ ideas lately....

Not that I even have a house or apartment to decorate, but it's still so much fun to look and dream. For now, I pretty much incorporate every Tumblr and Pinterest decoration idea onto my itty bitty little desk here at school. It's a bit ridiculous, but it's my little space to make pretty. So what have I been seeing lately? 

Let's start with Folletts. Folletts is a bookstore here on campus that has pretty much everything. Books, yes. But they're the place to buy the really nice Nike gear, coffee mugs, the fun stuff. But, there's also a Lilly/ Vera Bradley area that is oh-so dangerous. This past week I've made my fair amount of trips to Folletts, and guess what I found? The Kate Spade office collection. And yes, my roommate, K, and I fell in love. We didn't buy anything since we were already dropping hundreds on textbooks (ugh don't get me started!), but we sure did look and squeal at the cuteness of it all! 




Okay I know that the collection has been out a while so this is old news, but seeing it in person is so much better than looking at pictures online! The binder clips and push pins make me want to completely re-vamp my organization method for this semester (but I won't because I'm not crazy), but that won't happen. The post-it's though... I use post-its like a madwoman so these actually may be justifiable. I'll save it for when I need something really cute to pick me up :-)

I talked about housing for next year, and just in time Lilly has restocked their Garnet Hill collection. Can you say perfect? I'm in love with my comforter right now, but it's almost impossible to turn these down! The First Impressions print is basically the embodiment of me, so I might have to splurge this summer and bring it back to school with me... because really, how cute is it?



As far as decoration inspiration goes, I'm loving all things pink, gold/ sparkly, and white or lucite right now. It's such a happy, fresh color scheme. Anywhere from bright to a blush pink is gorgeous paired with gold! If you follow my Pinterest boards, you've probably noticed this trend. If you don't, I am here to grace you with a few of my favorites:




are you a fan of the combo yet? ;-)






14 January 2014

Update: 21 Before 21

I've been talking a lot about bettering myself, what I've learned about myself, and my goals that I have for this semester. But, that doesn't mean that I've forgotten my 21 Before 21 list of things that I'd like to do before my 21st birthday! This list being public is awesome when it comes to accountability- I feel like I have other people who actually care that I finish the list off (whether that's true or not...). Regardless, I've met a few of my goals and have a few more that I plan to accomplish in the coming months/ year. 

I figured it might be fun to go through the goals that I've reached and maybe help others to get motivated and make their own lists or continue! 

From the top to bottom of my list, I'll start with number 4. This spring is the Indianapolis Mini Marathon, which is one of the largest in the nation. It's been a goal of mine since I began running and I think that this year is the year! I've run every day since I've been back at school... okay that's only 3 days but it's been cold so it's an accomplishment. I also conquered my fear of the corec and went to lift by myself. No moral support, noone to give me that last push. And I did it because I have a goal to reach!!

Concert tickets. So last summer I went to so. many. concerts. I think my total was 12.. but I don't remember. All I remember is that they were absolutely fantastic and made my summer perfect! Since I'm a lover of all things country music, this year I'm thinking that I'm going to splurge and buy the Country MegaTicket... it's a lot of money but it's worth it and will satisfy my #7 goal.

#10 was to move in with some of my best friends, and housing contracts are quickly approaching for the 14-15 school year- crazy since we're just beginning this semester and we have to be thinking about the next. Of course, that means all of us girls are freaking out about finding the dorms with the biggest closets and nicest bathrooms, and the best hall mates! It's crazy crazy crazy, but I can assure you that I will be moving in with some of my best friends and it'll be an absolute blast! 

Lastly, I've already checked this off, but #16 is to pick a cause and dive head-first into it. Since high school, I've been involved with the Riley Dance Marathon. It's awesome that I can continue this cause here at Purdue and I plan to take my involvement to the next level for the PUDM'14. I was a team leader this past year, but this year I want to get onto a committee and really help with planning. Of course, it means I'll need to raise more money and do more with the planning aspects of the DM but it's all worth it knowing that we're changing lives.

I may have a few other goals in mind for this year that are waiting on extenuating circumstances to confirm. 
...............................................................................
I've said it before and I'll say it again, but I want 2014 to be a year that I look back and love so I'm doing everything in my power to make it great and memorable

13 January 2014

71st Golden Globes

Even with Amy Poehler and Tina Fey as the hosts, the red carpet is always better than the actual awards show.

I love seeing the dresses and suits and hearing the stars talk without having to thank a bunch of people and list everyone they're supposed to. I like seeing everyone all prettied up, feeling confident and powerful. I definitely have a few favorites from last night's Red Carpet, including Lupita Nyong'o in Ralph Lauren and Emma Watson in Dior. 

Edie Falco in Lanvin

Leonardo DiCaprio in Giorgio Armani

Lupita Nyong'o in Ralph Lauren 
Emma Watson in Dior Couture

Zooey Deschanel in Oscar de la Renta
It's obvious that red was definitely the color this year on the 71st Golden Globes Red Carpet

what were your favorite looks? 

12 January 2014

"Be Like Snow"

"Be like snow: beautiful and cold"

I ran across this quote during the snow storm and my initial reaction was to laugh. I almost posted it, but then I stopped for a second. I thought about just what exactly that's saying-

to be fun to look at but unapproachable, to cause others discomfort

- and I decided against using this quote to represent myself. It's true that I like to joke about being cold-hearted. I joke that I've been taken so advantage of that there's no warmth or love left. But it's just that: a joke! And underneath each joke is a bit of truth, yes. I have been taken advantage of and I do a good job at blocking people out of my life. But that's not something I'm proud of or something that I enjoy.

In fact, it's a huge problem and is exactly why I've been working on being vulnerable and out of my comfort zone. If I look a bit deeper at that quote... the fact that I even thought about labeling myself as something that I absolutely hate is embarrassing. It's obvious that I'm not a huge fan of snow or the cold, so why would I want to be something that I despise?


And the more I thought about this whole crazy ordeal that isn't really an ordeal... But it is... I realized how often I might post or reblog or pin something that is humorous but isn't a great representation of myself. If an audience saw this on my profile or blog (and I was serious about it), why would anyone want to talk to me? Why would anyone want to read anything written by someone whose goal is to be cold, unapproachable? I don't know, but I'm glad I thought about it before I posted it... and I will continue to think about this on social media and in life.

Because, I'd rather give off a persona like the ocean:

powerful and warm 

11 January 2014

Burberry Ready-To-Wear Spring/ Summer

Am I the only one drooling over the Burberry website right now?

I know, my slight obsession is a bit repetitive. I'm sorry... but I'm not at the same time. Let's just take a moment to appreciate the beautiful Spring/Summer RTW collection:








I am so in love with the lace!
...actually I'm in love with everything but these are just a few of my favorites.

*insert heart-eyed emoji here*