J. Crew Factory Favorites

There's always something so exciting about starting something new. 

Whether it's the first day of school/ classes, a new sport, or a new job, it's always exciting and fun. Even though I know that there will be days that I dread going, for the time being it's an exciting new experience. Yesterday was my first day working for J. Crew Factory at the outlet mall, and it was just as expected! 

I've worked retail before, so I know the basics of customer service. I had to learn the specifics of the brand and, importantly, the folding and organization procedures. I'm just so excited to get away from food (not to worry, I'm still working at CFA too!) and work for a company that fits who I am!  One of the most exciting aspects of working here is that I get to choose my outfits. It sounds silly, but Hollister had specific looks that we could choose from, and CFA obviously has uniforms. I've never worked somewhere that allows me to show up having styled myself, and that's exciting... and daunting! 

Of course this got me thinking about the outfits that I could wear, and how my time here will help me develop my personal style. Knowing that I'll be wearing more J. Crew- and that I have a pretty great discount- certainly didn't help my love of shopping! After spending hours looking at the recent new arrivals, I've thrown together a couple pieces that will be in my closet soon enough that are both work and play appropriate! 

all available at J. Crew Factory

A few of these items are already in my closet- the chambray, the sweater, and a similar skirt. I love this dress, and I don't currently have anything with that type of neckline.... I've been looking for some white jeans, and I think these have ended my search! When it comes to accessories, the new jewels are stunning. I don't currently have any of these pieces, but I will! I don't have any of the earrings here, but between J. Crew and the recent Kendra Scott popularity, I'm sure I'll be experimenting with statement earrings this summer. The shoes and hat will be in my closet soon. I've been loving wedges and have had my eye on these for months now. The hat is something that's been on my mind... I love hats and I love the way these hats look on other people. I'm not sure I can pull it off, but my discount and upcoming sales make it almost sill not to have just in case I feel like being a little risky! 

I'm really excited about this new job (as of now) and I know I'll be posting lots of #ootd posts now that I have a reason to look cute on a regular basis! I'll be posting to

 instagram: purdue_prep 

tumblr: purdueprep

twitter: @PurduePrep

Follow along and let me know what looks you love & which ones... not so much :)

Currently Loving

1. Winter Break

So, life has been hectic this past month. I was home for Thanksgiving holiday, back to school for finals, and I am now home free for a month- a glorious month where I have nothing to think about but friends, food, and family (the three most important F's). Because of this time off, I'm vowing to get back on my blogging game. Yes, I've been very consistent with twitter, instagram, tumblr, etc. Those platforms take much less thought and are much easier to just check up on than sitting down and writing a whole post. So, I apologize but I promise to be getting back!

Because I've been MIA for a little bit, I wanted to share a few things that have really been on my radar lately. There are no categories and no organization, which I apologize for. But here we go- a modge-podge of everything on my radar these past few weeks!

2. Music Mashups

Or mainly just this one...

3. Plaid and Monograms

I bought this monogrammed shirt from J. Crew on Cyber Monday, and just got it when I came home. And I never want to take it off. 

4. My Childish Obsession

With this movie, these boys- their accents, style, smiles. 

Definitely my guilty pleasure. 

5. Vogue 2013 vs 2014 List

I try to read Vogue Daily... daily. This is one article that I loved.

I hope that you enjoyed seeing a little bit of what I've been loving. I apologize for being gone but hope I can redeem myself! This holiday season I have a few projects up my sleeve, so keep an eye out for that! :)

Top 5: October 2013

this month has been crazy!

From October break to my birthday to sub-freezing temperatures, I can't remember an October quite like this. I feel like I've grown so much this month, both personally and academically. I've been able to look into how I'd really like my future to pan out and talk to advisors, family, and friends about how to make it work. I've consciously tried to get out of my comfort zone by being more vulnerable with my friends. At the same time, I've tried to make more time for myself and what I love, rather than feel guilty about the studying I should be doing.

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As always, I have a roundup of the top 5 products that I've been loving this month. From makeup to TV shows, here are my October 2013 Top 5:

Like I said, this month was crazy when it came to weather. In early October, it was in the 80s and now I'm lucky if it's 40 degrees when I walk into campus in the morning. Being the wise Midwesterner that I am, I failed to bring an actual coat to school with me. So I've been living in my J. Crew Excursion vest. I've also been loving my boots and booties and warm socks, which has been a stylish way to stay warm.

(there's nothing like cold toes to make for a miserable morning)

At the beginning of the month, I decided to try out the new Marc Jacobs lipstick... and let me tell you- it is awesome! The color that I got is a light pink, which gives my lips a slightly frosty-pink tint. What I like most is how moisturizing it is! Usually when I wear gloss or lipstick or anything of the sort, I have to put chapstick on underneath to keep from getting chapped, peeling lips. This stuff, though! I can put it straight on and feel moisturized. I'm definitely planning to get one of the more "berry" colors for the holidays and winter months.

Wow. I almost failed to mention that this month also held round two of exams: midterms. Episodes of Sex and the City were perfect 30-minute breaks between studying. I've also been trying to leave myself minimal homework for Sundays (instead of saving it all for Sunday), which has been perfect for reading, watching TV, and making sure I relax before the upcoming week. 

There you have it- the top 5 things that have defined this past month. I'm going home this weekend and plan to bring back a coat... and maybe my Uggs. 

I can't believe that it's already November! 

RedHead Lovin'

as a redhead, I always get excited when I see a ginger model in a catalogue or ad

I guess it's because my strawberry-blonde hair sometimes makes me feel different. Not in a good or bad way, it's just that I stand out. In a world of brunettes and blondes, my freckles and red hair can really bring me attention. People tend to comment on my hair before anything else... some people even ask to touch it, as if it's going to feel different than their golden locks. And I'll never forget the outright stares that I got while traveling in the Middle East. In their defense, my rosy complexion, hair & freckles, and blue eyes are extremely foreign to their olive-skinned population. 

But, I don't really let the fact that I look different bring me down. I find it funny now, and I enjoy the fact that my small outbursts of energy can be attributed to being a fiery redhead. And the fun part is that being part of this dying population connects me to other redhead girls out there. Recently I've loved seeing redhead girls in ads. J. Crew has a fabulous redhead model, and I love the Vineyard Vines model whose hair color is almost identical to mine! Seeing that rose-tinted skin and those freckles makes me proud to be different.

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J. Crew

Vineyard Vines

I can't forget the fabulous
Molly Ringwald

Everyone has a quirk or characteristic that helps them stand out. Mine is certainly my hair. I used to hate that it was so different, and sometimes I still think it's weird that people can be so intrigued by the fact that I have strawberry in my blonde. But I have grown to enjoy the fact that it is truly a part of who I am. It explains where I've come from and gives me a chance to automatically stand out- without saying a word.

and I can really appreciate that.

what sets you apart?

Long Weekend Makes for Good Sales

There are multiple reasons to enjoy Columbus Day,

and it's possible that the Sales may be the number one reason! 

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Here's what I'm loving:

50% off at J. Crew Factory

The entire store- including new arrivals- is 50% off! 

What I'd Get: this awesome waffle sweater! 

I loved the one at the J. Crew store, so it's perfect that the Factory has a similar style. Even more perfect? It's over half the price. Add this weekend's 50% and it's a steal! 

"Halfsies" at the Loft

Select styles 50% off!

What I'd Get: this jeweled sweater!

It's J. Crew-esque style plus the discount makes this sweater oh so sweet. It's perfect for dressing up or down, with a fun skirt, jeans, or printed pants! Pus, the short sleeves make it perfect for layering under jackets on chilly days! 

J. Crew 25% off every purchase!

need I say more?

Vineyard Vines Additional 30% off

sale items + some! 

Free Shipping at Sperry

check out the boots for this fall and winter! 

If you've got some extra spending money (birthday money, in my case), need something specific, or just want to knock out Christmas Shopping (it's ever too early, right?), this weekend is a great time!

Happy Shopping! 

What's In My [Longchamp] Bag?

This is the mess that was my Longchamp

It's been a while since I've done a post like this,

and I've seen multiple questions get asked about Longchamp Bags on Twitter and other social media sites.

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 I am known as the Queen of Longchamp among my friends at Purdue- I love mine and use them almost every day. That being said, I thought it appropriate to write a little bit about what I carry in my bag on a daily basis. From the "giant" to "mom bag", my poor 'Champ bags go through quite a lot, but they never let me down! Through spills and pen stains, traveling and study dates, I love having these big totes to hold everything and look cute! Since I'm currently on October Break (thank Goodness!) my bag is sans- textbooks. Not to worry! I still carry a ridiculous amount of stuff with me on a daily basis... in fact, this post helped me to actually clean out my bag too. 

The best part about Longchamps is their functionality and versatility. They're cute, yet simple and the colors available can make them the statement piece of an outfit or blend in. My first purchase was a neutral, grey-blue color. I love it for when I'm wearing colors or am not in a bight and cheery mood- that's what my red bag is for! I take full advantage of the tote and it's ability to become a full-fledged Mary Poppins bag! 

As I'm sure you have, I have my daily must-haves. I carry my wallet, sunglasses, hand sanitizer and mints, and an assortment of lip colors year round. Headphones, when I remember to throw them in, are perfect and help me calm down in unexpected, stressful situations as well as make me feel really cool as a I walk around to this personal soundtrack to my life. Thanks to iOS 7, I now have to carry around my phone charger, as well. sigh. The things we do to have the latest & greatest. More recently, I've begun to carry a notebook and pens for on-the-go jotting down of ideas, and a book or magazine. Having material with me at all times to read and gather ideas is one way that I've been able to make the blog more of a daily focus. It's become something that I'm always thinking about, rather than just an afterthought, and that's reflected in the amount of prep that I carry with me everywhere. 

More specific to fall, I carry a [giant] lotion, a scarf, and tea. I've been cursed with dry lips and skin- hence the lotion and excessive lip products. I love carrying my Burberry scarf around with me because it goes with pretty much everything and it perfect in a bind. It's large enough to drape over me as a blanket, but can be folded into a traditional scarf. It's also just fun to know that I'm carrying around such a nice product- definitely worth the splurge! Okay so I know you're thinking it, and yes- that is a box of tea. I used to just carry around a few bags but I'd always forget to replace them when I ran out so I started carrying around a box. It may be a security blanket at this point, but I always like to have access to a hot drink. Since hot water isn't all that hard to access, and I almost always have a travel mug with me, I found that carrying my own tea was a huge money saver. I still like to buy drinks sometimes, but it's nice to have this option. 

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I love my Longchamp[s] and their ability to hold everything I could ever need and then some, but the product isn't flawless. The bags only have one, rather small pocket on the inside. Luckily for me, I don't find it that much of a pain to dig around for whatever it is I'm looking for. Some people, though, like my mom, can't stand not having the compartmentalization opportunity. If that's you, you will not enjoy this bag. For an everyday, relatively inexpensive bag that's cute and functional, these bags work wonders. The nylon material is easy to clean and the bags can seemingly hold pounds of stuff without breaking. The fact that they bags can be easily folded and stored [read: no more giant bags of bags in boxes at the top of your closet] is wonderful for changing out colors on the fly or for saving room in you tiny dorm closet (my life). I still credit Carly for introducing me to the great bag, and I am a convert!

Sure, pretty, expensive bags are fun. 

But Longchamp is practical and cute. Perfect for a college girl on a budget 

Bling Bling... And Other Ways to Accessorize

One of my 21 Before 21 goals is to learn how to accessorize. 

Looking back, I probably should have made a more quantifiable goal, but I'm working with what I originally wrote. I'd say that I'm starting to really improve on my overall level of "personal style". Lately I've been enjoying hats and heels... two very new things for my everyday look. But, when I made this goal I was more focused on the jewelry aspect.

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A bit of background- I've never really been huge on accessories. I tend to be more of a necessity type of girl- if it isn't necessary I won't wear it. So even thinking about necklaces, earrings, and even nail polish is new to me. But new certainly doesn't mean bad; contrary to my thoughts, I have been having so much fun wearing and shopping for jewelry! Of course, my taste is just as expensive in jewelry as in clothing. I naturally gravitate towards Kate Spade and J. Crew baubles, but budget-wise, Bauble Bar is my favorite boutique for jewelry. 

What I'm loving:

Statement Necklaces

You just can't go wrong. I'd style this J. Crew necklace with a collared shirt. It could work to either accent and complete an outfit or make the outfit. The versatility is a plus, of course! For more color, Bauble Bar has a similar style that has both subdued fall colors and bright, statement colors! Perfection. 

This pearl necklace from J. Crew is really what go me started on this whole statement necklace craze. I bought it 50% off back when I was still wary on jewelry. It was the perfect necklace to dip my toes and see how I liked it. I'll be honest, I tried it on almost every day and would take it off, thinking I just couldn't pull it off. I'm telling you- jewelry has been a struggle for me! I took it on every trip that I went on over the summer but I think I only wore it once or twice. College was where I feel able to redefine my personal style. Nobody knows how I dressed in high school or that I hardly wore jewelry. The way I carry myself (and accessorize) is completely up to me. And the best part? I get so many compliments on how well I accessorize and dress... if they only knew. 

Bangles

Bracelets haven't really been a problem for me, except that I get into a routine and don't really change it up much. My left wrist is my sentimental wrist- a watch from my parents and a Tiffany bracelet from my mom. Always. I feel lost without those two pieces- it's like having my parents with me at all times without them actually being there. I still haven't mastered a "stack" for my right wrist, just because it can get annoying when I'm writing. But, like my necklaces, I'm branching out. As of now, I'm more of a bangle girl. They're easy to slip on and off and don't take much thought to put together. I'm also loving bows, so this Loren Hope bow bangle is to die for. And for her, it's an awesome price! Being sentimental and the bibliophile that I am, Kate Spade idioms are my favorites! I love this "Kick Up Your Heels" idiom (it says "Dress to the Nines" on the inside!!), and I might have to buy it just because it's so symbolic of this personal... blossoming into someone who can put a decent outfit together, if I do say so myself.  

When it comes to earrings and rings, I still am in my rut. I rarely change out my earrings because, what's better than pearls? And I've never really been huge on rings, just because I'm self conscious of my fingers and don't like bringing attention to them. I know, but we girls are weird about out insecurities! That's not to say that I don't find rings adorable! In fact, I quite love College Prepster's rings that she's always showing off. Maybe that's my next step in this accessory development?

I'll keep you posted

the Perfect Fall Outfit

I woke up and checked the weather: 53 degrees.

fall has arrived.

And I couldn't be happier. Obviously, I've been anticipating this for a while. 

Saturday at the football game I wore jeans and a nike half zip- that was the first sign. 

Then today I woke up and just knew. There was that feeling of fall in the air and the smell of pumpkin spice latte's coming from every Starbucks cup. I love fall clothes and weather and everything,

  as I'm sure you know by now.

But something crazy happens in the fall. Mondays get... better. Getting ready becomes more fun.  The food becomes yummier. And the coffee.. oh the coffee shines in the fall. I was so excited to pull out my leggings and tunics and riding boots! My wardrobe is rally very simple- jeans/leggings, a button down or sweater, and boots. Accessorize with scarves, jewelry, and hats and you could wear the same outfit two days in a row but look completely different!

In the spirit of this wonderful season, I've given you my go-to outfit:

J. Crew Funnel Neck Sweater / Lilly Pulitzer Travel Pant

Kate Spade Phone Case / J. Crew Necklace (Similar)

Lilac Longchamp Le Pliage / J. Crew Bracelet (Similar)

Marc Jacobs Watch / Tory Burch Riding Boots

I basically live in this outfit. Maybe with a button down layered under the sweater on a cooler day or dark wash jeans to feel a little more put together. I like to switch up my Longchamps depending on the day and my outfits (I have 3 different colors!), as do I enjoy changing my iPhone case. But fall is about cute but warm clothing, and this tends to do it for me!

What is your fall go-to?

Fall Fashion Favorites

...anyone who said I wasn't good at alliteration is lying :)

Anyways, regardless of how anti-fall the weather has been lately, I think that everyone is ready for fall. From the colorful trees to the crisp air to the football. I love hot apple cider and going to the apple orchard. I love that my birthday is in October. I love Thanksgiving and bonfires and scarves. 

I love everything about fall, really. 

I think that Indiana is it's prettiest in the fall. I think that fashion is at it's peak in fall. I seriously can't wait to bring out my Burberry scarves and my riding boots. I love wearing dresses with tights and booties. I could go on and on about what makes me excited for fall. But, being the girl that I am- the fashion stands out. Designers love fall. The colors are so much fun and I think that everyone can make a fashionable, classy fall wardrobe no matter what their budget. 

I've thrown together all of my favorite designer looks this fall and put them into one huge collage-

inspiration for you and me!

Get Dressed Up!

- PurduePrep

Wish List Wednesday

It's been a few weeks since I did a post like this... And in the case that I have any readers who really, really love me, I've gotta keep them coming. Right?

That's my rationalization, anyways.

I'll get right to it!

Okay, please excuse the picture quality (lol but not really). So I've had this slight obsession with leopard print for the last year or so. It's such a classy print that livens up any outfit and looks awesome with fall and winter colors. It does the impossible of making black and brown work together, and this bracelet would look fabulous around my wrist.

It's every preppy girl's dream to have a Lilly Jeep. 

In general, I think a Jeep would be an absolute blast to drive around in. The top off, the salty air blowing through my hair. There wouldn't be a care in the world in this car. The only sad part is that it's very rare for someone to personally own one of these beauts. In the case that you do, and you'd like to get rid of it, I'm your girl. 

While I love this Kate Spade watch, I'm wishing for time more than anything. I'm not wishing for more hours in the day or more years to my life. I'm wishing for time to slow down when it comes time for me to relax. I don't mind one bit the speed at which time moves when I'm busy and productive. What I do mind is the fact that time seems to blow by 10x faster the minute I sit down with a good book or for a phone call with my Grandma. All I want is more relaxation time- more time to laugh and smile and not have an agenda. That'd be great.

Okay so the big, tangible wish list item now is this Tory Burch Tote. It's beautiful and elegant. I love the slight color that is still subdued enough for the winter. It's magnificent. And if it isn't on my shoulder by Christmas, I hope Santa and his Elves leave it under the tree for me :)

Jack Rogers. Tortoise Shell.

If we're being honest, there's nothing more that needs to be said here. Unfortunately, I could never pay $148 for a pair of shoes that I will never wear. Here in the midwest, fall is definitely not sandal weather. And I don't think they'd work for any other season. Also, I'm living on a college girl budget. So until I'm working and vacationing to Palm Beach in the winter, these will have to remain on my wish list...

Wish, wish, wish. That's a girl's job. And while I don't like the fact that I can almost always think of 3-5 things that I want, I think that (if nothing else) this is a fun series of posts that I can look back at and remember the types of things I was into at various times of my life. But, if I ever want to be able to afford these Wish List items, I need to get back to the books and make a living on my own.

Sayonara!

[Fall]

It's horrible to think that summer is coming to a close...

really, it isn't. We still have a month of summer! But fashion likes to get us thinking about fall during the warmest months of summer.

Fall lines are coming out. Fashion magazines are hilighting the fall looks.

And, honestly, it makes me excited for crunching leaves; reds, greens, and blues; football games.

Like any fashion-forward girl, I've got my fall classics already. What I need now, are some fun pieces that can carry me from summer to fall into winter. It's a tough bill to fit, but there are a few looks that I am loving for early fall all the way into snowy December.

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If you're like me, you lust over the perfect pair of riding boots. Last year, I bought a pair of Ralph Lauren riding boots that were black. This year, I'm on the prowl for some tan or brown boots. Yes, Tory Burch would be my ideal pair, but the price tag is a little.... scary. To say the least. These Michael Kors boots are about half the price of a pair or Tory Burch boots, and I think I might actually like them a little better. I'm all for simplicity, and these just aren't as showy as TB's. 

Shirt dresses are going to be a favorite of mine this season, I feel. I've grown to love dresses, and these easily transition from summer to fall with a change of shoe choice. Add some leggings in the winter and a trench coat- you're nice and warm for a walk in the snow! I've now purchased two of these dresses- one from Gap and this Beckett dress from Lilly's fall line. I also love how these can be belted or dressed up with jewelry. Versatility is key, people! 

The J. Crew excursion vest. I have been excited to buy one since I fell in love with them after they were taken out of stores this past winter. I know, I have impeccable timing. It's driving me crazy that my local stores don't have them in yet.. I don't even think they're online at this point! But, when they are, you best believe that I'll be first in line to buy one... or probably one in every color.

I love accessorizing in the fall, too! I adore wearing scarves and hats. I love knee socks. 

Honestly, I love everything about fall.

Spring Looks

I don't know about you, but I find this time of year very challenging when it comes to figuring out how to dress. Not only does weather and temperature change day to day, but it also changes within the day! I always have to make sure that I'm dressed appropriately for certain weather in the morning, but so that I won't get too hot while in school or during the day. I find it challenging, but I've come up with some good outfits for managing this bipolar weather. I've been able to come up with a few basic outfits that are versatile and fun for spring!

1. The Cassie Dress

As we all know, Lilly Pulitzer is a genius when it comes to functional and cute. One of my favorite styles is the Cassie or Kaleb dress. It's perfect for the cooler spring days, but is also lightweight for summer. And, with some leggings, can be a cute look for fall, too! What's not to love? The dresses come in all different prints and colors. I have some basic colored ones as well as some printed. I love the flamingo print of this one! (Current Lilly Bonus: get a free bangle with any dress purchase!)

2. Gap Skimmer Khakis

I'm not really a huge fan of the normal colored khakis on me. I think they was me out a little bit. But, Gap has some awesome, affordable khakis that come in all different colors! I find Gap to be a little bit hit-or-miss at times, but these were definitely hit! I bought the navy ones to start with, since I was needing some navy pants. But, I'm trying to find the time to go back and buy a few more in a different colors! These are so perfect for spring or, again, cooler summer days and nights.

3. Blazers

Blazers are such a cute way to dress up a casual outfit. They've been one of my favorite aspects of my spring outfits, since they can easily bring bright colors to a more basic outfit. Also, depending on what you wear underneath, they provide the perfect outfit transition from day to night. Can't go wrong with these!

4. Cardigans

A girl can never have too many cardigans; that's a fact! I love wearing them on the days when it's too cold for just a shirt but too hot for a jacket or sweater. I love the J. Crew ones, because they're so comfortable and offered in so many different colors. Because I like to have one in every color, I tend to buy them from the J. Crew Factory. I just checked today, and guess what? They're on sale!! So stock up on your cardis! 

It's no secret that I love springtime and the colors that come with it! I love to incorporate those colors into my outfits. Plus, brighter outfits tend to lead to a brighter attitude!

Happy Shopping!

Going South: the Essentials

Spring is coming and whether you're going south for vacation or are just going to enjoy the northern sun, there are a few essentials for spring!

1.

2. 

3. 

1. The classic J. Crew chinos and VV shep shirt. The chinos are wonderful! They can be dressed up or down, and match almost anything. They're easily the best investment. The VV shirt is totally worth every cent! I love wearing these while taking night walks on the beach or while out at a windy pier. And these two together? The perfect spring outfit.

2. Caps! I used to never be a fan of wearing hats, but I've grown quite fond of them. I love big, flop hats for dressing up; ball caps I use to run in or while out at the beach to keep the sun off my face and the sand out of my hair. I love the cute colors of Ralph Lauren ones! 

3. For those at the beach, a cute beach bag is totally essential. This is actually the bag that I bought from Lilly Pulitzer and I'm in love (beach bag packing coming soon!) It's so big that it can hold almost anything and act as a second "carry on" type bag for traveling to and from the vacation destination. Next to it is a kindle. This picture actually kindof summarizes my beach time. Sunglasses, hat, and a good book. Can't get better than that! 

It's no secret that I'm so looking forward to spring break and warm weather! The closer I get, the more I want to just start packing right now! 

What are your spring essentials?