Red Hot Nails

I have about 7 different shades of red in my nail polish collection and that's a number that's sure to grow. Red nails are just so classic but there's definitely a red for every season, too. I've been looking for the perfect shade of red for a while- not too pink and not too orange. I think I've found it! Essie She's Pampered is a true red. It's not too dark for the summer but not too light for winter- seriously year-round color. 

There is always going to be personal favorites when it comes to nail color, but if you're looking for a great red- give She's Pampered a try. And if you don't love it... well, you can send it to me ;) 

Posh Thanksgiving

I channelled my inner Blair this Thanksgiving and wore classics with a pop of color. We didn't really do anything big- just lunch with family and then hanging out at my aunt and uncle's house. Regardless, I love the opportunity to dress up and take pictures... and eat a lot :) Big thanks to my sister, the resident photographer while I'm at home. Hope y'all had a happy holiday weekend! 

p.s. how cute is this fruit turkey? My dad did this all on
his own... what a guy.

Business Casual

flats // pants (old, but similar) // jacket  (similar) // scarf // watch // bracelets (old, similar)

It takes a lot for me to get dressed up for class... not because I don't love wearing cute clothes or feeling great about my outfit, but because there's just no point. I either have long days with labs where I don't want to wear nice clothes and risk spilling something or I have short days which I don't see the point in wasting a cute outfit for. 

So you see my dilemma. 

Luckily, there are those few times that I have to dress up. So I take full advantage of it and make sure to take pictures. I've been doing quite a few admissions events lately, and this weather is just so perfect when it comes to looking nice. I love flats and scarves and sweaters, and that's pretty much what I wear. Of course, I add my own flare: my pants are plaid and my accessories are patterned, but I think that's the perfect way to look professional without looking too old. 

Very Fall Weekend

This past weekend, I was finally able to go home! There was a family wedding, which meant family, family, and more family! My mom is quite the entertainer, so we had a full house both Friday and Saturday- this included babies and more dogs, so it was pretty crazy. But crazy in the best way! 

The actual wedding was Friday night, so Saturday was our day to just hang out. We ended up going to a pumpkin patch in the morning, followed with a huge brunch. We got back around 1:30- just in time to spend the rest of the day watching football... #HottyToddy :) I've been meaning to get more outfit posts up, so I figured that this weekend was as good as any to get started! 

Oh yeah, and I dove in with my first hair coloring...

It's just a darker version of my natural color but I think it's perfect for fall. 

I love it! 

Fall Accessories

Continuing my post from last week, I thought I'd talk about a few of the accessories that can change up a few "lived in" outfits. Maybe I'm biased, but I think fall has the best accessories- navy and camel and gold. How can you go wrong?

Anyways, I think the image is pretty self-explanatory. And a few searches on google or tumblr will get you a million different outfit ideas when it comes to these few pieces. The rules I live by in the fall?

base outfit - vest/ jacket - scarf - sunnies - bracelets

It's the best way to be weather appropriate (so many layers to switch up if it's too hot or if it gets dark) and seasonably in-fashion. 

How do you style your favorite fall outfits?

Fall: Live in This

Is there anything better than fall fashion? No. The answer is no. 

The best part is that so many pieces can be styled differently to garner so many different looks. A tan v-neck sweater? Um you can wear that a million and two ways. If I wanted to do laundry twice a week, I could narrow my closet down to about 10 major pieces for the fall. With accessories and shoes, they'd be able to make it through at least a month without repeating the exact same outfit... and honestly probably more. 

Thus, I bring you the "live in these" pieces for the fall.

shop this post here

There are a few hints as to why I picked these pieces:

1) They're all lab-appropriate (minus the skirts). Silly, I know. But you'd be surprised how hard it is to look nice on days that I have 3 hour labs that require I dress like a nun... and I have labs three days a week. 

2) They all have some bit of "texture" to them. I hate just plain outfits. Whether it's the wrap style sweater or the patterns, these outfits are all just fine without any embellishments. That means that, if I'm running late and don't have time to think through jewelry and scarves and belts and what lipstick to wear- all thoughts that go through my head in the morning- I'm fine. Even if I put no thought whatsoever into the outfit, it looks complete and thought-out. 

3) They're all (for the most part) interchangeable. Isn't that the most important part? Getting the most for your money is important, and I think that these pieces can all be styled through fall and winter in so many ways!

The most important? They're all already in your closet!

Okay, so maybe not the exact items, but it's all stylistic interpretation. You don't have a DVF ballet wrap sweater (I don't either!)? Okay, belt a sweater, or wear a v neck sweater with a skirt to give the same effect. Layers are in, so play them up. Most importantly- keep your eyes out for inspiration! 

And, of course, make getting dressed fun!  

Weekend Pretties

Exam 1: in the books. First "free" weekend of the school year, currently.

And the impending exams have yet to phase me. Life is pure bliss right now. The weather is great, the people I've been spending time with are great, and classes are... not great but interesting, kind of. ;) 

Anyways Anyways It's the summer-fall transition which is a fashionista's sweetest dream. Seriously, light scarves, sweaters and shorts. It's the one time where almost all of my closet can be utilized. Which would be great if I didn't leave most of my fall clothing at home............ *crickets* So, what I have are a few of my favorite little pretties to make this weekend (and every day) feel a little more glamorous.

1. Tory Burch Revas

I suffered from a recent crisis of sorts, and so I decided that retail therapy was the best therapy. Thus, I bring you my first pair of Revas. They're beautiful- seriously, I just look at them and think of how perfect they are for every outfit I could imagine. I'm in the breaking-in phase right now, so I haven't been able to fully enjoy them. But I'm thinking these will be making a regular appearance from not on.

2. Chanel Chance

Chance has been a longtime favorite of mine. It makes me feel so sophisticated and grown up, which is sometimes just what I need on the days I feel unmotivated. I like to think that it's my "signature" scent, and I love it the most during the fall.

3. Kendra Scott

Anything KS is a win for me, but these feathery earrings were a Labor Day sale purchase. They were such a good deal I just had to buy them. They're not my typical style, but I've been styling them a lot more than I expected I would. For plain sweaters that need a little spicing up, these do the trick!

4. YSL Volupte Lip Stick

*New Favorite Alert* Okay, so I will be the first to admit that I took an interest to these because of the tube design. It's so fancy and luxurious that I felt the need to check out the actual product. I was happy to hear the raving reviews on all the different types (lipstick, gloss, and shine) available. The lover of lip products in me was overjoyed at the idea of build-able color with moisturizing formula; the college student in me silently cried at the price.

I reasoned with myself that a nice, raspberry/rose color would be really pretty for fall... and I don't already have colors like that. So I went for it and, trust me, I am so in love!! My lips are so soft and the color is subtle enough for daytime but can be built up for night wear. I am so, so in love.

Happy weekend, Stay Pretty! 

p.s. that shag carpet is horrible... it will not appear again. 

New Sperrys

I've decided that it may finally be time for a new pair of Sperrys.

I bought my current pair freshman year of high school. Yes- my beloved pair have been through 5 springs and summers with me! I love when people see them and talk about how much character they have! They've been with me through multiple vacations and countess weeks in the sun. They're faded and creased... and I think they might smell kinda bad too, oops!

Part of the reason that I haven't bought a pair was the "I had them first" mentality. I got them before they became popular and before they came in the cheetah print/ sparkly variety. Once I saw that the awesome boat shoes became available in all these ridiculous colors and patterns, I refused to buy any of them. I really didn't like the look and felt like Sperry was "selling out" as a company.

But I've come full circle... or maybe half. Mostly because I just desperately need a new pair, but also because I understand the business motive behind appealing to everyone. The colors and designs have no doubt made the brand a household name and makes the selling out worth it. So, I have decided that I will no longer hold off on buying a new pair and have been browsing the site for which ones I like. (which isn't a hard task since I'm still going 100% classic)

I'll either get the Authentic Original or the Bluefish. I have the Bluefish now and it's great! I can't complain about a shoe that has lasted me 5 years and still feels as great as the first day. I've seen so many girls with the Original and the look is definitely more classic. After so many years with my beloved Bluefish, a change -up wouldn't hurt.

I definitely won't be buying these in the too-near future, but it's certainly on the horizon. I'm excited for a new pair of my favorite boat shoes, but I am not looking forward to the breaking-in process!

Bag Envy

I do not need any new bags.
Seriously, I finally am in agreement with my father- I have so many and I'm running out of space. But that can't keep me from looking & loving. Oh my goodness, I have been dying over a few totes (because we all know I'm a tote person).

Barrington Gifts

J. Crew

Tory Burch

It's such a shame that I've been using my backpack as much as I have, or I might be able to justify the Barrington or J. Crew bags. I have a sneaking suspicion that I'll end up with the Barrington at some point in the next few months... because every girl needs a monogrammed tote. And it's a little more dressy than a longchamp. I think I can justify.

I saw the J. Crew bag in LA and died. Luckily it was at the end of my shopping day (read: I had no money left), otherwise I probably would have made the purchase. Thinking back, it would have definitely been an "LA style" purchase- it seems like everyone had one of these leather bags! 

And, the Tory. Okay yay me... it's not a tote! It's a cheaper version of the classic Chanel chain bag, but I actually think I like this one better. I certainly like the price tag better :) My Kate Spade crossover is getting a little worn. This is similar but also a bit more grown up and girly. And just think of how pretty it'd be with a the Lillys I'll be wearing this summer! It's still out of my unemployed college kid price range, but it sure is fun to look at.

Are there any bags you're currently loving... or wishing for?

Great Coats

I mentioned earlier that I somehow came to college without a big warm coat...

I've lived in the midwest my whole life, so it wouldn't be off to assume that I own a big, warm coat for the winter... but I don't. I guess I've always been resistant to the idea of coats. They're big, bulky, and just as hassle. But I've come to accept that a coat is a necessity... but that doesn't mean that it has to make me look like an eskimo. I've been on the hunt for a stylish and warm look, and I've managed to find a few contenders:

J. Crew

Barbour

Ralph Lauren

So it's apparent that I'm liking the "cocoon" look right now. Really, I just hate when my neck is cold. I always wear scarves and have recently fallen in love with turtlenecks and their endless layering options. Of course, if I had to pick the coat- you know, the one that would be my dream coat? Well, feast your eyes: 

The Burberry Trench. Coming in just under $2,000... it's certainly not practical for my currently lifestyle or position. I'm not counting on this showing up in my closet anytime soon, 

But, it sure is fun to dream.

[Fall Trends] Boots & How to Wear Them

Riding Boots. Bean Boots. Rain Boots. Booties.

via Instagram

I love my boots just as much as the next girl, but it can certainly get overwhelming when it comes to styling the boots. Riding Boots aren't too hard- just tuck in some skinnies or leggings and you're ready to go. Rain Boots are, well, for the rain. I find that booties and Bean Boots are the hardest to style. Because of their height, they've got to look just right or they can make your legs look short and stubby. 

But, when done right, they can make any outfit look fashion-forward.

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Right now, the style for booties is a low, chunky heel. Designers have gone crazy when it comes to making their boots stand out... but I think that the greatest boots are the ones that are versatile stylish. For once in my life, I was a little ahead of the curve when I bought my first pair last fall. They were $30 at Kohls and I've gotten so many complements on them! Of course, with increased demand, prices have increased. My favorite pair that I've seen are from Anthropologie and mix black and brown Can you say "Goes with anything?" Additionally, so many more styles and looks have been introduced.

The lower heels, buckles, and more masculine looks form a bootie-meets-combat boot look. Since I'm not edgy enough for combats (and I never really wanted a pair anyways...) I like this little twist on cute booties to make them wearable in both formal and causal settings. But then that brings up the question: 

How do I wear these?

Well, they're obviously very stylish and flattering with skinnies or leggings and socks. One line from hip to feet creates and elongated look that is flattering on everyone. But, the trends now are to wear booties with skirts, or cropped boyfriend jeans. Chunky socks or tights finish off the look and keep you warm. But the visible skin can be absolutely detrimental to your appearance when it comes to height. Add into this dilemma the return of longer skirts (which I'm still not sure how I feel about) and it's quite possible to end up looking like a gnome instead of a stylish, confident young woman. 

The fix? Trying on lots and lots of boots. High Heels. Low Heels. Color- Blocking versus Solids. There's no one style that works because boots are going to look different on everyone. Wear skinnies and take a skirt or dress to try them with. Be especially conscious of where the boot is hitting your leg- you've got to find that magic height that lines up with your leg. 

 also, make sure they're comfortable!

While I was a little ahead of the curve on my booties, I am definitely way behind when it comes to my lack of LL Bean Boots, affectionately called just Bean Boots or Duck Boots. I discovered these when Carly from College Prepster and Sarah Vickers featured them on their blogs and other social media outlets. I didn't initially think they were cute, but they've grown on me. And their practicality certainly has! For trekking through the snow on campus or just having good, durable boots for fall activities, these are the way to go! They're available in different colors and styles... including tan/navy. Eeep! I think they're calling my name! 

Fall is the time for boots, socks, and tights. I love the versatility of fall pieces- a skirt with booties can be dressed up or down depending on the top. Riding Boots can make a summery dress more fall appropriate. Without boots, fall just wouldn't be fall. And the best part is that they transition wonderfully into winter, which needs anything (including cute boots) to make more bearable. 

How are you styling your boots this fall?

Paris Fashion Week

Rounding out my little mini-series, it's only natural to end with the big shabang.

Paris Fashion week is one of the most recognized around the world. It's home to the legends of high fashion: Chanel, Louis V, you get the gist. And this year was no different. With Marc Jacobs leaving Louis Vuitton and Chanel targeting a new, younger audience, this fashion week attracted attention as expected. Overall, the shows seemed to be very black. This theme helped lines like APC, which featured more traditionally spring colors and styles, actually stand out rather than blend in. All of the lines seemed to have one general consensus: spring will be about feminine-meets-masculine. Blazers and loose-fitting styles were prevalent, as were very small low-maintenance accessories... well except for the LV girls and their giant headdresses. 

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APC

APC was my favorite line that I saw. The looks were feminine, but wearable. The colors were subdued enough not to seem tacky, but colorful enough to not be drab. I liked the pant-suit/jump-suit looks, although I could never pull them off... curse my long torso. And the small, dainty patterns are exactly what I think of when I think Paris in the Spring.

Louis Vuitton

Of course Louis was going to be a big deal- Marc Jacobs' contract was up and he was rumored to leave the clothing house to focus on his own brand. The show reminisced his past years at LV, featuring a theatrical set showcasing props used in his shows: the elevators, the clock tower, the fountain, and the carousel. The show was mainly black- the only color variation came from the jeans worn on the models. While it was interesting and intriguing, and a bit sad... like a funeral, I didn't like the fashion. Mainly because I didn't really get much from it. I'm sure it was much more impressive in person, but the video feel just gave me black, black, and more black. There was no ooohs or ahhhs from this side of the computer screen.

I may be a bit biased though, considering my favorite color is navy.

Chanel

Chanel was the epitome of fashion as art. Like, really. The show was set up like an art gallery, with Karl Lagerfeld's own drawings and artistic designs created on a massive scale. Lagerfeld also got a bit artistic with his looks for 2014, too. The big patterns and bright colors demonstrate a stark difference from the usual business-y colors- maybe a change in target consumer? The looks mixed that of schoolgirl and office-woman. Pencil skirt, meet the crop top. Of course, there were the typical Chanel looks. The black and white dresses. The shimmery coats. And a new spin on Coco's LBD: the midriff-cutout LBD. 

The art was taken beyond the clothing, to the makeup of the models. The modern-art look was painted on as eyeshadow and liner. Blocks of color and swooping eyeshadow made for this runway show to demonstrate a walking art showcase.

 Of course, the fashion is always fun to keep up with and the other weeks provided even more inspiration for this coming spring and summer. From what I saw in New York, London, and Paris combined, I'd say this spring is going to continue the boyish-feminine balancing act that is so prevalent this fall. Pastels and prints are definitely in. And, unless you're Louis Vuitton, I'd stray away from black. The accessories are small: clutches, chain-strap bags, or no bag at all. The jewelry is simple yet statement-making. From what I can see, it's all about picking one prevalent piece. This upcoming season isn't welcoming to layered jewelry pieces... but that's been on its way out. In the way of shoes, chunky heels are the way to go, so thank goodness they're more comfortable! 

All in all, I think the trends are going to be more comfortable and very flattering to the average body type (as opposed to the -5 models).And, personal style is always more important than being trendy. To update your wardrobe, pick up a clutch or bag and maybe some heels. I'm sure the skirts, dresses, and statement jewelry you already have can be transitioned to spring beautifully! 

And the best part? 

The big prints make wearing Lillys not only a personal-style statement,

but also trendy! 

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 

Personal Style

With all of the high fashion hype going on, it's important to remember

the stark difference between fashion and style. 

A couple of weeks ago, I read an article that really got me thinking about the fashion weeks. The glitz and glam is great; the shows are artistic and inspiring. But the "ready to wear" label is misleading... to say the least. While those who are invited to the shows may be able to afford those looks straight from the runway, the typical woman cannot. The typical woman also does not have a reason to wear many of the looks on a daily basis that would justify the spending on those pieces. 

So, then, what's the point?

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I am a strong believer of the idea that fashion is art.

The designers and stylists use fashion to artistically display their thoughts and inspiration for the upcoming seasons. But, I'm also a believer that personal style is art just the same. Women use style as personal expression. Colors, textures, and overall look can all come back and tell you about a woman- her values, her ambition, her taste. The way you style yourself has a lot to say about the woman that you are and the woman you aspire to be.

I know, it's heavy stuff.

But, it isn't to say that wearing sweats or norts means you're headed for failure. A bad hair day mended with a hat doesn't mean that you're lazy. And being put-together at all times doesn't mean that one's life is perfect. This post isn't about breaking self-confidence, but it's about building it up. It's about realizing that taking an outfit right off the runway doesn't mean that you're stylish, just like cheating on a test doesn't mean that you're smart. Being innovative, mixing looks is the key to personal style. Taking inspiration (and pieces) from the runway and making them work in your closet and with your schedule is what style is about. Cut-Copy-Pasting looks from a designer is only using their artistic senses to be fashionable. But fashion is fleeting. 

On my college-kid budget, I don't have much any money to spend on runway looks, anyways. So I particularly enjoyed the article and it's stance that high fashion is "silly and superficial". I love the shows; there are looks that I'd buy right off the runway if I could. But the emphasis put on looking just like the models and wearing those exact looks is extreme and unoriginal. Even the French, who are known for their impeccable style, tend to live by a "choose well, buy less" idea- be choosy in expensive pieces. Buy pieces that will last seasons and years. Buy items that will enhance your personal style, not your level of fashion. If you do that, you might not even have to go vintage shopping when the fashions come back around. Like my mom, who's been getting into her old Coach bags because they look classic and cool, be the woman who has a closet full of timeless items. 

To add to the support for this stance, take a look at the street style of the fashion weeks. Off the runway, the models are anything but runway-ready. While their runway style is polished and posh, their street style is comfortable. It's an extension of who they are, where they've been, and where they're going. The fashion week spectators are seen in all different styles that mix labels and functionality. In a way, I think the street style looks are more inspiring and beneficial than the actual couture shows because they show how real women wear these seemingly impossible pieces. 

They've created style out of fashion, and that's something that 

every women should be inspired to do.

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

#NYFW

eeeee! I have been so looking forward to this post.

It has taken every ounce of my being to wait this long to re-cap and make my comments on New York Fashion Week! I waited partially because I needed to make sure that I had time to look through everything and because I've been caught up with the other fashion weeks (one after another is too much for me to keep up with in my lacking free time.. I can't imagine actually following the shows in person!). It's amazing how much time watching one 10 minute video after the other can take up! Don't worry, to be well informed I made sure to do the job right. :) I feel confident that I've been able to narrow down my favorite shows as well as a few off-the-runway looks that I found particularly pleasing. Let's get to it, then.

There was an overwhelming feel of the Sixties this Fashion Week. From big, bold, colorful prints to chunky jewelry and shoes. Each designer interpreted the decade in their own way, producing an array of vintage-chic looks that are way too cool for me to pull off. After searching through articles and images, I was able to narrow my favorite shows down to two: Ralph Lauren and Tory Burch. Both completely different, but not so out there that I felt I could never wear any of the looks- that is the point of "ready-to-wear" isn't it? 

Ralph Lauren

Ralph is the epitome of American style. I love the classic looks mixed with a Sixties London feel. Overall, the collection went for mainly blacks and whites with colorful accessories thrown in. The show began with boyish school-girl outfits: short skirts, knee-high socks, and ties. I felt like I was watching the Gossip Girl school uniform selection process... not exactly the best feelings for such a high-profile fashion show. My fear was banished as lust-worthy pea coats and skirts emerged. 

I'm not usually one for a bold flower print (except for Lilly), but leave it to Ralph to pull it off. 

The Sixties rang out loud as busy geometric prints and face-masking sunglasses made their appearance. The neon shift dresses and pantsuits reflected off the runway. My eyes went a bit blind, but I somehow ended up really being drawn to the bright red and blue (I can't waver too far from my go-to nautical colors). Again, probably not something I'd pick off the rack at the the store, but it worked! What I loved, though, was what came next: the Ralph Lauren classics that we all know and love. The geometric striped sweaters and simple, flowy skirts are what I was waiting for. 

Oh and can I just take a second to talk about the accessories... well mostly the bags! Beautiful, fantastic, I want them all. Oh, and I hope I get asked to a formal so I have a reason to buy the ball gowns. 

Tory Burch

I am forever a Tory Burch fan. As a woman, I think she's incredible. Her designs speak to the laid back lifestyle that she lives. One thing that really sets her apart is her wearability. I could see myself in almost every single one of her runway looks (except for the bikini and trench coat look...) , which instantly makes her a favorite of mine. Like I said, the ideas for this upcoming season seem stem from a Sixties feel- Tory's flowers and geometric patterns are no different.
What makes the collection different, though, is Tory. In the October Vogue she spoke about her love of gardening and arranging flowers, and her love of her Southampton home. With those idea in mind, the collection comes to life. The greens, blues, and creams take on a new meaning with the touches of silver metallic bringing on a new look.
I love that the designer is more than just a designer for this line. Everything has sentimental value- from the pieces being named after family members to using a hobby to make patterns. More than any NYFW shows that I saw, this is the one I'm most excited for.

Besides the actual shows, I have been loving looking at all of the street style from each different destination. NYFW spectators seemed to like dressing up casual looks, something that I really could get into. Baseball caps on my head and heels on my feet with a blazer and some jeans... sounds about perfect to me! There were clutches and more clutches present, too. I've always been more of a big tote-bag person, but I might try taking a tip from these stylish ladies and try lightening my load. Of course, I've rounded up a few of my NYFW street style favorites!

I didn't talk at all about Kate Spade, but she is not to be forgotten. I always love the looks and the New York Sixties were embodied by this collection. Big flowers and bright colors were present like in Ralph Lauren, but KSNY always channels a more youthful, fun look.
(and if you haven't checked out the recent new fall arrivals, go do it now. )

Well, there's my opinion on a few of the NYFW looks and shows. There were so many to look at that I probably missed out on a few points, but c'est la vie. I'm hoping to continue this "series" and look at at least London and Paris, as well. As always, London is going to rock it's own style while Paris is going to blow me away with it's posh designs and spectators. I love looking at the inspiration behind collections and how they change based on designer and country. 

What I love about American designers is that they're able to use the melting pot to their full advantage and can pull from all different forms of inspiration, 

making for a unique and versatile look.

Girl On A Budget: PiperLime

You know those ads that you repeatedly see but never really look at?

Well that was PiperLime for me. I'd seen the ads in Vogue and Elle over an over again, always making a mental note to check it out. The other day I was absent-mindedly flipping through the October Vogue, saw the ad, and thought "no more mental notes!" I grabbed my computer and checked it out, and oh how I wish I'd done so sooner!

If you're like me and have no clue what PiperLime is, get ready! It's in the Gap/ Old Navy franchise, but so much better! They use both high-end and budget-friendly brands to get similar looks, of which you can pick how much you want to spend. It's the ultimate "save vs. splurge" opportunity, but I love it. There are pieces from Kate Spade to Nine West to Free People. It's like a more organized H&M or Forever 21... with better quality offerings. 

There's even a section titled Girl on a Budget.

That speaks right to my little college-girl heart. I have yet to make any purchases (again with those college-girl struggles), so I can't speak for service. But I'm loving their selection and variety! I'm thinking an order will be made in the near future...

Check out PiperLime!