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!

Wish List Wednesday

These wish lists are beginning to get a little bit dangerous.

The reason? Because I'm entering a world of college-girl-brokeness. So I imagine my wish list will grow and grow and grow

....hopefully my mom is reading the blog and will send me a care package [or 5].

Or, hopefully my wish list will become less materialistic.

Anyways, here's what I'm wishing for. 

The Debra Sweater

I have been loving Lilly's Fall 2013 line. I already made one purchase, which has arrived and I can't wait to wear! This sweater looks marvelous, but I just couldn't bring myself to buy it just yet. My birthday is conveniently in October, which is perfect for mid-fall and winter clothing purchases. I can almost guarantee that I will have this on my birthday list (even if I buy it for myself). 

Leopard Loafers

I have been wanting a pair for the past year... I'm not kidding. I love the leopard because it's fun, but also functional- they can go with black or brown and look great with fall and winter colors. These are also great because loafers are extremely comfortable, which is necessary since I'll be walking around campus quite a bit. 

Starbucks

Honestly, I think I'd be happy if all I got for my birthday and Christmas was SBux cards. Seriously, I've gone out of my way so much lately to enjoy my favorite drinks, while still trying to pace myself. I just can't afford to make it a daily habit while I'm at school... unless someone wants to send me a $100 gift card. Then I guess I can.

Purdue Student Life

I picked a major that isn't exactly the easiest. I also picked a school that is extremely competitive and well-known. I can't wait for all of the experiences- sporting events, recruitment, meeting new people! But I want so badly to be able to balance all of that. I want to be able to study and have a life and friends. I guess I'm not the most outgoing and social person, so I doubt I'll struggle much with making studying a priority. I've just got to remember that student life is a priority, too.

............................................................................................................................................

Like I said, broke college life has become a reality. 

A stark, horrible reality. That I must live and embrace in order to appreciate my hard work and paychecks in the years to come.

No matter how long my wish list,

I'll always be blessed.

[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.

What's in My Bag: Beach Bag

So now that it's officially summer and I'm leaving in two days for the beach, I figured that a beach bag post was in order. While I don't carry anything too ridiculous or special, I enjoy reading about what others take with them to the beach. I thought that maybe someone would be interested in what I take, as well.

Like I said, nothing too out of the ordinary, but I wouldn't be ready for a day on the beach without it.

The most important and instrumental part of this post is the bag! Previously, I've used the freebie bags that I've gotten from Victoria's Secret or Lancome... I decided it was time to step it up and purchase a bag for the beach. Before spring break, I bought the Lilly Shoreline Tote, which I absolutely love! It's a great size for the beach, but I also use it as my "carry on" personal bag when I travel. It's big enough to load up with anything that didn't quite fit in the suitcase.

Most of my bag is full of skincare products. I'm a redhead with freckles, blue eyes, and fair skin. I never use a sunscreen less that 15 SPF and usually it's more like 30. I love the Australian Gold Sunscreen, because it has a built-in bronzer that I swear gets baked into your skin! I started using this my freshman year and it gives me a nice bronze glow that redheads usually don't experience. I wouldn't recommend that on your face though, as it's pretty oily. Instead, I use Maybelline BB cream... I know, I'm obsessed! But it's got a 30 SPF which protects my face. Just for fun, I bring along these Evian Mineral Water sprays. They are refreshing and help to rejuvenate the face from the sun. They're kinda pricey, but they're a splurge that I wouldn't want to go without.

Besides skin care, my bag typically carries a book and some sunglasses. For the beach, I make sure that I also have my Cotton Snaps on- nothing like losing a pair of Ray Bans to the ocean. I also like to take my most versatile pair of sunglasses, which is usually my aviators and my tortoise shell wayfarers. These two work with brown or black and can work on the beach or out to dinner. Pack smart! I also like to keep a hat in my bag, usually a Ralph Lauren hat in either navy or pink (since these two colors go with most of my swimsuits) to keep my face shaded and keep my hair from drying out in the sun. 

Of course, what better to do on the beach than read and people-watch? I used to be the type to put in my headphones and just lay there, but that's no fun and nobody wants to disturb you. With a book you can hear the ocean, chime in on conversations, and cute guys may feel like they can approach you to play a pick-up volleyball game :) Book-wise, there are a few books that I've already posted that I plan to read this summer. Naturally, the list keeps growing and I've now got three books from Amazon on their way! They're all about the British Royals- mostly William, Harry, and Catherine-, which I think will be fascinating to read! First on the docket? Kate. She is so inspiring and I think this will be the perfect beach read.

Now that my beach bag is all packed and I'm imagining laying out, listening to the ocean, I want these next 48 hours to pass quickly!

Tuesday, Shoes-Day

The shoes complete the outfit and this girl most definitely has a pair for every outfit!

I may be a little bit of a shoe fanatic, but what girl isn't?! I have a few go-to pairs of shoes for the summertime. From flats to heels, here are the shoes I couldn't live without:

 1. My Lilly Pulitzer Jelly Sandals are my go-to shoes! They're so comfortable and versatile. I found them on sale at a boutique for $19 and honestly don't know what they retail at. Regardless, they're awesome! I'm so sad that they aren't for sale right now... I think they can probably be found online. If you come across them, snatch 'em up!

A girl can't go wrong with Nike Free Runs. They're perfect for a game of tennis or running errands on a Saturday. My Free Runs definitely get plenty of use. I'm going to have to buy a new pair before I leave for college in August, and I'm loving these blue-green ones! 

Sperry Topsiders are THE classic summer shoe. They scream life on the water and are comfortable to the max! They can be dressed up or down and are perfect for almost any occasion or type of weather. While I love all of the fun colors and most of the designs (but I HATE the sparkles), I find that the classic browns get the most use and look the best- the more worn they get, the more character they have!

No matter where you're going, you've got to have shoes on so make sure they're fabulous. On days where I dress up more, I love my Lilly 1 1/2 inch wedges. They're the perfect balance of classy and comfortable. When I'm on vacation or away from home, I always make sure to pack my nude heels in case I need to really dress up an outfit.. or just want a little more height :)

What are your summer shoe favorites?

WISHLIST UPDATE: look what is currently in the mail!

Yes, I finally did it. My new Jacks are on the way :)

Summer Fun: Crafts

I've never been much of a DIY'er.

I'd much rather spend the extra money and have a product that looks good and is done professionally. I'm not sure if this is because I've grown up with the ability to afford this or if it's my lack of any kind of artistic ability whatsoever (I'm thinking a little of both..). But, with the world of Pinterest, my lack of creativity doesn't hinder my ability to find cute and functional crafts! Between my sort-of looking for crafts for my dorm room and people posting their craft ideas, I've been able to come up with some fun ideas that I think even I'm capable of making.

All three of these crafts are definitely going to be done this summer! From left to right, there's the Lilly Pulitzer Print Craft, the Sparkly Mason Jar, and Sparkly Clothespins. 

The Lilly crafts are everywhere and I'm sure you've seen them anywhere from coolers to coasters. I'm thinking either some coasters or even small wall art- type things would be cute for my dorm room! My roommate is a Lilly Lover as well, so I think these would be so cute!

 Next, you can never go wrong with Mason Jars! They're so functional- from cups to flower vases! Decorating them is such a fun way to add a little spunk and personality to an every-day item! 

And, if it wasn't obvious that I love sparkles, how about clothespins? I've seen clothespins used as ways to hold up pictures or any other light items. But, the sparkling doesn't have to stop there, since I'm sure this technique could be used on bobby pins or binder clips. 

Like I said, I've never been much of a crafter. I'm honestly very surprised with myself that I even have a remote interest in doing these and a few other little things! But, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do when it comes to budget-smart decor. I have the instructions to these crafts and many more on my Pinterest.

Keep me updated on the cute decor crafts you do this summer! 

Going Greek

I'm so excited to get involved in college!

I want to do charities, ambassadors, maybe some sports, and so much more! Of course, going Greek is a huge option and Purdue has quite the greek life program. I'm a little nervous because my major is such a rigorous one, but it can't hurt to at least rush and see what it's all about! My mom was in a Chapter at Purdue, as was my aunt and great-grandma, so I've got some help in the legacy department :) I've also got friends and family friends who have been telling me all about greek life and making me so excited! 

Lilly Pulitzer Sorority Line is wonderful! 

There are 26 PHA Chapters at Purdue, and I've narrowed my top choices down to three or four. I have 3 relatives who are Pi Phi members, so there's a legacy there. Then I also have a Chi Omega

family member. Additionally, I really like Purdue's Delta Gamma and Kappa Gamma houses, reputations, and philanthropies.

Going away to college and being immersed in all kinds of opportunities is so exciting! I really can't wait to get there and get involved! I'm not sure that Greek life is going to work with my studies, but I think it's definitely a priority of mine and I want to make it work if nothing else! Also, I really just want an excuse to buy Lilly Pulitzer and Jack Rogers sorority items! 

Top 5: May 2013

Another month has come and passed and it is finally summer!

Today is graduation and tomorrow begins grad party madness! The slowing down of school along with me just not caring as much anymore has led to me getting into all kinds of cool, random things! I'm sorry if this "Top 5" post seems random. It probably is!

5. YouTube Beauty/ Lifestyle Videos

So, instead of watching a tv show or movie, I've been really into watching YouTube videos. I feel like I learn such awesome tips about beauty and just life from them! Some of my favorites include Sarah Belle, Bethany, and of course Carly! I'm not sure what makes them so entertaining, but I'm not the only one who does this because all of these ladies have millions of views!

4. Etsy!

Hello, online shopping addiction! I'd heard of etsy before and had been on their website, but I'd never really spent any amount of time on it. Let me just tell you, their monogram selection is wonderful! I've been looking for stickers and desk supplies for college, and the selection and prices on etsy are awesome. I haven't made an order yet, but I'm sure I will soon. 

3. Colored Lip Stuff

I said "stuff" because it varies from lipstick, to gloss, to balm. With less focus on my face and eyes in my summer makeup routine, fun lips are an easy way to brighten up my face without looking too overdone! I still haven't gotten into the lipstick on a daily basis, but I'm loving Baby Lips in Pink for day-to-day funness! 

2. The New Lilly Agendas

A "Top 5" wouldn't be complete without some Lilly! When the new agendas were released, I think I might have cried. They're so so so adorable! I am in love with the Tusk in Sun print (unfortunately, it ships after I leave for college so I'm not sure about that) as well as LuLu and Let's Cha Cha. Can I buy all 3? No seriously. I almost can't wait for school to be in session so that I can use one of them! The hard part is going to be deciding which one to get.

1. Acrylic Desk Accessories

I know... kindof a weird #1 for the month. But I've become obsessed. From Design Darling's Acrylic and monogrammed Collection to Etsy and the Container Store, I can't wait to be all decked out in acrylic accessories! It's a bit retro, but I'm also a fan of clean lines and classy-but-still-functional furniture. 

I warned you that this list was going to be random and weird! I've done a lot of dorm and college shopping, which is probably why these are my favorites for the month. 

Hopefully June will be more exciting!

Summer Lilly FWP!

In case you didn't know, The Lilly Pulitzer Free With Purchase sale is currently going on and will continue until Sunday!

Gifts include beach towels, beach blankets, a makeup bag or a sunglass case!!

Go, go, go and get geared up for a very Lilly summer!

The 1/4 Zip

So, I think I'm always cold.

Seriously, it can be 98 degrees outside and I'll get goosebumps when I go inside. I think it's just the contrast of the extreme heat with the extreme air conditioning, but I get so cold! And don't get me started on summer nights. My trademark phrase is that my "leg hair is growing!"

...because, you know, goosebumps makes it grow?

Vineyard Vines

So, because I hate being cold, I love 1/4 zip pullovers! Whether from Marley Lilly, Lilly Pulitzer, Vineyard Vines, or the local Target, I'll wear it. I love the pullover with shorts and flip flop looks for cooler nights on the beach or boat as well as the ability to wear layers. Plus, these without anything underneath and a scarf instantly adds some color. Wanna dress it up? Wear a polo or button up underneath (and maybe pop the collars?). You've probably picked up that I love versatile pieces. The 1/4 zip is extremely versatile and cute.

Seems like a win-win to me!

Summer Wish List

Summer means shorts, dresses, sandals, and oh so many bright colors!

As the self-proclaimed shopaholic that I am, I have a mile long list of summer clothes to buy. Bigger paychecks, graduation money, and babysitting all means one thing: shopping! 

I've narrowed my wish list down to a few items that I need in my closet... soon!

So, I used to think that Jack Rogers looked like shoes more fit for my grandma than for myself. But they've really been growing on me and I'm thinking that I might need to buy a pair this summer! I'm still deciding on color, but I'm loving the navy and white, the gold, and the plain white. For my first pair, I really want something versatile and that I can dress up or down. I've put probably more thought into these shoes than necessary, but I really just want the perfect pair!

This dress. Okay so I'd be happy with anything off the Lilly summer line, but this Cambrey Dress is basically the most perfect dress ever. It's so classy and is perfect for nautical summer trips as well as into fall. Even more perfect: I got the summer GWP dates in the mail today... so guess what I'll be buying?

Only I would be the one to add summer reading material to my list of summer wants. But, I'm going to need some good reads for by the beach, laying out at the pool, and traveling. I've got quite a few books that I'm planing to read, a few of which include Mrs. Kennedy and Me, The Freshman 50, and any F. Scott Fitzgerald. I've jumped the gun a bit and started reading This Side of Paradise. You can follow all of my summer reading at my Goodreads page :)

The countdown to summer is now in the single digits, so my motivation is at an all time low.

All I can think about is pool time, beach time, and being with friends! All of the fun colors of summer collections are not helping, and the emails about all the sales going on aren't much help, either. Hopefully I can get through these next days in one piece.

Freedom is just around the corner!

Graduation Gifts

Today marks 4 weeks (or 19 days) of school left!! 

College kids are finishing up finals or are already home, and high schoolers are nearing their last days! The class of 2013 is entering its final days of high school-

  graduation and open houses are quickly approaching!

Whether you know hundreds of graduates or just 2, there's nothing like commemorating the accomplishment with a perfect gift! While money is always, always appreciated, putting some thought into a gift that your grad will love is so much more heartfelt and gives them a way to take a bit of you away with them!

Hint to your favorite cousin or crush that you want to keep up the correspondence with this adorable Lilly stationery set. This set works for a variety of occasions; she'll hardly be able to resist writing you! I know I wouldn't be able to! No student can have enough pens, and this Lilly one will keep note taking light and pretty! You can never go wrong with Lilly or writing materials. Put the two together and you've made the best gift-giver list!

Whether graduating from college or high school, grads have a whole new world ahead of them. For the avid writer, note-taker, or list-maker (hello, me!) this Kate Spade travel journal commemorates the leaving of one life to the entering of the next. It's cute and fashionable while also completely functional. Since it's technically a travel journal, it has pockets inside, which will work perfectly for any busy girl who needs a place to keep her syllabus, calendar, or just some miscellaneous notes. This is an awesome, inexpensive gift that will make an impact on your grad and keep her thinking of you every time she opens it.

Every girls needs a College Prepster monogrammed bracelet! Marley Lilly has the one, and it is a perfect grad gift! Jewelry is always perfect for the preppy girl, and a monogram makes anything better! This bracelet is the epitome of the preppy girl and will be a great outfit staple for going to class, going out, or meeting with a professor. Stylish, sophisticated, and classic, you can't go wrong with this one. 

For the reader, the funny one, or the guy who's too smart for his own good, That Book about Harvard is a perfect buy! At less than $15, the price is just right. This book will make you laugh at the horrible things poor Eric went through his freshman year at the esteemed Harvard University, though it's lighthearted enough not to instill fear into the incoming college freshmen. I plan on purchasing this book for many of my guy friends. While books aren't always the most exciting gift, encourage your grad to give it a chance. I promise you that they will be hooked after the first page. The laughs will be great and the fact that you provided them will be even better! 

Happy Gift Giving! Don't forget to tell your grad "Congrats!"

Top 5: April 2013

I cannot believe that April has come and gone! I'm entering the final days of high school and life as I know it. The sun is shining daily and my porch has become my go-to hangout. I am in no way complaining, but it just feels as if life is passing by so so quickly! 

As per usual, I am going to look back on my top 5 favorites of this month!

Lilly Pulitzer

Dresses!

As a kid, I was never a huge fan of dresses. I think it was because I was more the type to run around with the boys than to look cute for them. This year, though, I've been looking for any excuse to wear a dress! The warm weather is perfect for cute sundresses and they show off my runner's legs! Plus, they're oh so comfortable and flattering! I'm kicking myself for not liking them before and have been buying up so many dresses lately. Now, I'm just looking for places to wear them.

Natural Hair

So I have this awkward hair that's straight with a teeny-tiny bit of wave. And there's only some wave if I put product in and DON'T comb it. But, it'll dry basically straight with a comb through. I've pretty much hated this about my hair, because it never looked super put together. Lately, though, I've been embracing the natural wave of it. I hardly use my flat iron and I let it air dry, which has resulted in my hair being so much smoother and healthier. 

Senior Prom

Family!

My family is a close family, but it's never been like this before. I think I'm just enjoying my last few months at home with my mom and dad before I'm on my own... eek! But seriously, I give up everything to be with them. I make an effort to have dinner with them a majority of the nights each week and to tell them daily that I love them. They're the most supportive, loving, selfless people I know and would give me the world if they could have given me the world. If I want it, they do their best to make sure I have it even if I have to wait. If I need help, they do their best to help me or find someone who can. My sister and I are their top priorities and I pray that I can one day be as wonderful to my children. 

North Carolina

Kinda weird, I know, but I've been planning and thinking ahead for my future. While I have two years of undergrad at Purdue, I will be applying to pharmacy schools in a couple of short years. Purdue does have a fantastic pharmacy program that I will apply to, but I have always been a fan of the south and the east coast; I've always wanted to leave the midwest. University of North Carolina dawned on me as the perfect school! It's ranked in the top of the country, is very well known, has 4 seasons that aren't as extreme as the midwest, and embraces the best of the east coast and south. I've only been to the beach in N.C., so a visit to Chapel Hill is in store!

LEM

It's been a while since I talked about my best friend. She's a favorite every month, but deserves a spot this month. We went to the beach together and it was fantastic! On top of that, she and I have become so incredibly close and she gets me through just about anything. She's really sick, so prayers to LEM! And, her birthday is Thursday... and the only thing I like better than online shopping is online shopping for someone else! I can't wait for her presents... (some Tory Burch and Marley Lilly, maybe?)! I just can't imagine what I'd be without my best friend. 

Another month has come and passed with all sorts of new experiences and memories. April has been an enjoyable month, but I'm ready for May and summer!

It's Going to be a Lilly Summer

Can I just talk about how in LOVE I am with the 2013 Lilly Pulitzer summer line that has been released thus far?! It's beautiful! I love the new prints and can't wait to be able to wear everything! I know that everything hasn't been released yet, but I'm liking what I'm seeing! So far, I have a few must-haves that will definitely be on a hanger in my closet... soon!! 

 First things first: this for 4th of July is beautiful. These are the classic Callahan Shorts in the print She's a Firecracker. I'm going on a cruise over the week of the 4th of July and I'm thinking that these are a must have! I love how fun these are; they scream party and fireworks!!

Alright now the Janice dress is stunning! I love the gold trim on the front and the green/blue will be awesome with my strawberry-blonde hair. It's not usually something I'd go for, but I've fallen in love! No stopping me from finding every excuse to wear this beaut!

Okay this popover is probably the best thing I've ever seen! I was planning on buying one of the 1/4 zips in a solid color, but I'm so glad I waited to find this one! It's so bright and cheerful- perfect for cool summer nights following a big day at the beach. The print is fabulous (season favorite?)!

I have to say that I really do like the looks of this season. Spring was cute, but too much neon and brights. I love that these are still bright, but are mixed with subdued hues or gold. Looks like I know where lots of my graduation money is going!

And, hey, gifts are appreciated and can come in the form of merchandise or gift cards! ;)

Get Your Lillys!!

The moment that every prep is waiting for is soon to arrive: Lilly Pulitzer Summer Line!

I'm probably a little more excited than I should be about this, but that's totally fine with me. Within the next week or so, the items should go up for pre-order! Yay!

There's nothing like welcoming in the sunshine and summer freedom like a new Lilly (or five...)

Happy anticipating! 

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!

Spring Cleaning

There's nothing quite like the fresh smell of spring outside... but why not bring that freshness in? One of my favorite things to do in the spring is the clean! i know, this sounds crazy, but cleaning is peaceful and fun. Turn on some music, open the windows, and get going! My spring cleaning list ranges from my furniture in my room to my closet to my car to my wallet. It's a time of rebirth and organization to prepare for the best time of the year: summer!

My Room

While I don't have much to change up, I do what I can in my room. First things first, I take my heated blanket and flannel sheets off of my bed.. no need for those anymore! I put fun, springy pillows around and try to brighten the place up a bit. One of my favorite things to do is go shopping for new candles! I love going to Bath and Body Works and Yankee Candle to find yummy scents that will bring the smell of spring inside. 

My Car

I should probably clean out my car more often than I do, because I just cleaned out my car and found Christmas Trees from a holiday benefit I hosted in early December. Yes, I need to make a point to clean my car more often. Besides the Christmas Trees, I make sure that any loose papers, water bottles, cups, travel mugs, CDs (yes, I still use CDs because I don't want to invest in a new adapter for the iPhone 5), trash, anything that doesn't belong there HAS TO GO. While at Bath and Body Works, I make sure to pick up yummy air fresheners for my car. I love any beachy or floral smells! I also vacuum and windex all of the insides of the windows. To top it off, I go and get a nice carwash. 

My Closet

Perhaps the largest cleaning happens in my closet! This was the first thing I did when I got home from Florida, and is usually what prompts the Spring Cleaning monster within. I love taking all of the sweaters and flannel off of my hangers and replacing them with colorful Lilly Shifts. Just having a more colorful and fun closet boosts my spirits in the morning. I also make a point to tackle my shoes. I can finally put away my big, bulky Uggs and boots... but I make sure to leave out my Hunter rain boots for the days of spring showers :) 

My Wallet

My wallet is probably the scariest and most fulfilling part of Spring Cleaning. Mostly because I have multiple wallets for various needs: quick run to the store/ for food, shopping spree, stay in my car, etc. It's kind of frightening to see how many receipts I have stuffed in each one.. I shop way too much! But, I always end up finding a $20 bill I forgot about, or, even better, lots and lots of change. I have of $30 in change!! Talk about fun stuff! So, basically I clean out any old cards, used up gift cards, and receipts. 

The biggest thing I do for my "wallet" is to budget out the next couple of months. I think through how much money I can "expect" to get and what my necessities will be. One major change for me this year is the fact that I won't be working in college. I figured that I should probably start saving a portion of my income for my college expenditures. Because, we all know that I'm going to want at least one thing from the fall lines at Lilly, Kate Spade, etc, or a Starbucks every now and then. Saving now will allow for splurges during school for a quick morale boost.

Spring is a time of rebirth and a celebration of life. I don't know about you, but I can celebrate life a lot easier when it's an organized life! 

What's top on your Spring Cleaning to-do list?

Heaven Just Got Fabulous!

The beautiful Lilly Pulitzer Rousseau passed away today at age 81. She has left an incredible legacy here that will continue to live on in her memory. I imagine that she will have the most colorful funeral the world has ever seen, just how she'd want it!

RIP, Lilly P.

I'm Back!

After a brief hiatus this past week, I am back and ready to go! My time on Sanibel Island was refreshing- just what I needed to propel myself through these final eight weeks of school. Luckily, it seems that I may not have left all of the warm weather in the south! The long awaited spring has arrived! As my welcome back, I thought I'd share some of the hilights of the past week or so.

 One of the most exciting days of the trip was Disney World! I hadn't been since middle school and it was so much fun to go back and be a kid! The rides were better than I remembered, as was the food! Speaking of food, I ate way more than I should have. Every. Single. Meal. I indulged a bit lot...! But, how can you not with such good food at your disposal?!

 A week ago was when we arrived at the beach, and it was as beautiful as always. I'd start each day with a run on the beach (which turned out to be pretty painful- Sanibel is the shelling capital of the world), then I'd go up and eat, change, put on sunscreen, and head to the beach! My days were spent reading and people watching while soaking up the beautiful Florida sun. If it rained, we would just go shopping. I found a Lilly boutique on the island and ended up going there every day after I found it! Slightly obsessed. But, there's no way this vacation could have been any better. Unfortunately, I came home to some last minute homework that needs to be done... back to reality, I suppose.

Happy Spring!

Top 5: March 13

It's that time again! A new month means looking back at what all has happened in my life the last month. Good and bad, March is one month closer to warmer weather so I can't complain. This month I got into a few new habits, as well as rekindling my love for a few new ones! Here it goes, my favorites for the month of March:

1. Lilly Pulitzer

I've been a Lilly fan for a while, but this month has taken my interest to a new level. I love reading the brand blog and looking at new arrivals- either I don't look close enough on a daily basis, or new stuff is added almost daily! I also began reading a biography on the one and only Lilly P., and have gained so much love and respect for the woman that is known so well in American culture! She was such an inspiration in the 20th century, and also seems very humble and kind. I'd absolutely love to meet her.

2. Country Music

As I've stated many times before, I've become a huge fan of country music! I love Rascal Flatts, Florida Georgia Line, you name it, I probably like it! On a completely different note, the new OneRepublic album is great too!

3. MacBook

This month, my parents bought me my MacBook- more affectionately called my baby- which could be one of the most convenient presents for the whole family! My stuff stays out of their way and they stay out of mine. perfection. One thing that I haven't quite gotten used to is the function of apps on the computer... I guess I don't have the need for them at this point. I am looking for some apps (preferably free for now) that may be useful! Send them my way!

4. Running

I've been a regular runner for the past couple of years. I run for enjoyment and exercise, but I haven't been running lately because it's been such a cold winter! I have outdoor running clothes, but I just hate being cold. Anyways, being on vacation has given me the opportunity to run in shorts and t-shirts on the beach, barefoot. Can't beat that, and it'll be way too cold when i get home if it's anywhere between 70 degrees! I've ruined myself. But, hopefully I'll get in shape to run a few half marathons this summer!

5. Soda Water

Yes, a bit random, but my dad went shopping and there must have been a great deal on Perrier, because he came home with 10 cases of it! I'm not the person to demand "fancy" water, but it's been enjoyable while we've had it! It reminds me of being in Europe- since water is more expensive than beer and so you might as well get the fancy kind- and it just puts a spin on the ever important staying hydrated. 

So, there we are. These are the top 5 new additions to my life since the beginning of the month. I've had a great month of school, which ended with two weeks of vacation! No room for complaints, and the best part of the year is quickly approaching! 

What will you remember from March?