Summer Essentials

Summer is all about less is more!  No need to pack on layers and accessorize with chunky jewelry. The days are long and hot, so it's all about trying to stay cool and comfortable.  Summertime definitely means less makeup, less clothes and less worry.  I love just throwing on a touch of brozer and maxi dress for those warm summer nights.  It feels like summer took forever to get here, but I am so ready to embrace the long days.

1. Of course everyone needs a great pair of sunnies.  As if Ray-ban wasn't cool enough, they really have become super chic this season with their stylish "Clubmaster" line.  I love this pair from Nordstrom.com.

2. If you haven't checkout out Love Shack Fancy yet, you have to!  They have THE best summer maxis that are perfect for taking beachy days to nights.  You will live in their Signature Love dress all summer long.

3.  Another summer must-have is the perfect bronzer.  I love Bare Minerals Warmth all-over face color.  It gives you that natural summer glow, plus it has an SPF built in!

4. Every summer goddess needs a floppy hat.  Francesca's has a great selection.  I got their Bonaire Floppy Hat a couple months ago and it follows me to the beach every single time!

5. I have fallen in love with Triangl's colorblock swimsuits.  A great swimsuit is a for-sure summer staple.

6.  If I am not in a summer maxi, my weekends are spent in colorful, flowy cover-ups.  Love this one from H&M!

7.  Living in sandals all summer means investing in a good leather pair.  I love these Sikinos from Calypso St. Barth.

8. Countless trips to the beach need a fun beach bag to hold all your things.  Nordstrom always has a great selection!

Spring Neon

 

 

 

Top - Express // Jeans - American Eagle // Wedges (old) - similar // Long necklace - Express // Layering Necklaces - Forever 21 // Gold Bracelet - BP via Nordstrom // Cuff - Baublebar (similar) // Nail Polish - Essie's Spin the Bottle

As some of my readers may know, one of my New Year's resolutions is to incorporate more color into my wardrobe.  I have a horrible habit of buying anything black or white (but mostly black).  Spring has really encouraged me to start branching out because of all the beautiful colors right now.  

I loved this top as soon as I saw it.  The neon color was bright, but so lovely at the same time.  Coral is such a great color for spring and I think it goes well with almost every skin tone.  Some other colors I am really loving this season are navy, hot pink and cobalt blue.  I think I have been doing a pretty decent job of shying away from black and purchasing more beautiful colors. The true test will be if I can keep it going throughout fall and winter. 

How 2 Style: Boyfriend Jeans

I absolutely love boyfriend jeans!  They are definitely on my list of investment pieces.  Revolveclothing.com has such a great variety and definitely has some of the best options out there.  If you are look for the perfect pair of distressed boyfriend denim, Revolve is guaranteed to deliver to you the perfect pair.  I have also found some great pairs at places like Abercrombie & Fitch and American Eagle (channel your inner high-school self).

  I love that you can dress  boyfriend jeans up or dress them down to fit almost any occasion.  I also love the fact they are super comfortable and stylish.  I really hope that they never go out of style.

Probably the most common way I dress boyfriend jeans is by keeping it casual.  Slip on a pair of black loafers and style with a rock tee.  Perfect the look by add some gold jewelry and a fedora for the perfect go-to look!  I fringe bag is a must if you want to pull off the whole "rocker" look.

Even though boyfriend jeans tend to be more casual, you can dress them up.  I love adding feminine details like a lace top and blush handbag to give a softer look to an otherwise edgier jean.  Complete with pearls and strappy heals and you have the perfect date night look!

Probably my all-time favorite way to style boyfriend jeans is with a v-neck, heals and a blazer.  I love the care-free vibe this look gives off while looking well put-together.  Of course, you will need to pair with some dainty gold jewelry and brown leather satchel to get that "Jennifer Anistan", girl-next-door look.

Friday Favorites: Spring Pastels

Happy Friday everyone! Well we made if through the first full week of spring; although it sure hasn't felt like it.  Even though the weather has not been the best here in the Northeast, I have been dreaming of spring and pastel colors all week!  My favorite clothing season is definitely fall, but I love all the colors that come with spring collections.  It gives me the opportunity to experiment with colorful outfits and new textures.  Here are some of the items I have been lusting over this week:

1. JCrew jeweled statement necklace // 2.Chicwish midi lace skirt // 3. Zara city bag // 4. Vince Nude peep-toe booties // 5. JCrew mint Carrie Cami // 6. Kate Spade jeweled earrings via Saks Fifth Avenue // 7. H&M Textured wool coat

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday!!  I just got back from vacation on Wednesday and you have no idea how hard it was to come back to cold, snowy weather.  Take me back to sunny Cancun, please!  Luckily our flight was able to land, but yesterday we got bombarded with about 8 inches of snow.  I am so ready for spring and this winter weather to be over.

Since I had a snow day yesterday I did a lot of online browsing.  It was so hard not to with all of the great sales.  Shopbop has 25% off with code BIGEVENT15 and Francesca's has B1G1 50% off almost everything.  Here are some of the things I was lusting over yesterday as I did some "window shopping".

1. DANNIJO iPhon 6 case via ShopBop // 2. Bauble Bar ear crawlers // 3. Rebecca Minkoff Leo Clutch in winter mint via ShopBop // 4. "I love coffee" mug via Francesca's Collection // 5. Rachel Zoe Inigo Flat Sandals via ShopBop // 6. Two piece sheath dress via ShopBop  // 7. LuLu's Floral midi skirt // 8. Adriana Orsini pave snake cuff via Saks Fifth Avenue

Vacation Essentials

Happy Friday, everyone!  I am so happy the week is finally coming to an end, especially because I leave for vacation this weekend.  I will finally be heading out of the icy cold and into the warm sun!  It could not come at a better time. 

Since this will be my first vacation in several years, I had a lot of stocking up to do.  I may have went a little overboard, but hey, you got to look good on vacation, right?  Anyway, here are some of my essentials for the big trip! 

1.  high neck swim suite - Top Shop  // 2. Fun sandals - Target // 3. Floppy hat - Francescas // 4. Brightly printed shorts - H&M // 5. Tribal statement necklace - Bebe // 6. Romber cover-up - H&M // 7. Canvas beach tote - Jonathan Adler via Nordstrom // 8 Good book (see below!) // 9. New Shades - Tory Burch

One of the number one things I am looking forward to doing on this vacation is catching up on some good reading, and it just so happens that Joey over at Hodgespodges is selling her e-book for only $1.99 this week!  She is such a fabulous writer, as showcased on her blog, so I am sure the book is going to be just as great.

From now until February 28th, you can get her book on Amazon for $1.99!  So head on over and use this opportunity to catch up on some good reading as well!  She is such a great writer, so please share this post with your friends as well and support this amazing blogger!

Eva Franco for Lover.ly

If you don't know Eva Franco's designs, you should. Her collections can be found in stores like Anthropologie and Modcloth. The detail that goes into her vintage-feel designs are impeccable and like no other. Eva Franco scours the world for unique fabrics and textures to inspire her collections that are made for the everyday girl.

I am happy to announce that her designs are now available in the form of bridal!  Brought to you by Lover.ly, Eva's dresses are a unique spin on pieces made for your special day.  The best part?  They are super affordable.

What I love about the collection is that you can clearly see all the detail and texture that has gone into these designs.  I love that she has not only included dresses, but also two piece suites and jump suites.  With these unique pieces, you can really create the vision for your perfect day.

I love the idea of a two piece dress for you and your bridesmaids.  One of my absolute favorite pieces from the collection is this gorgeous, two -piece dress.  Even though it's white, I would love to see this as part of a wedding party.  Just look at the detail within the fabric!  How can you not be obsessed with this crop top/skirt combo?

I also cannot help but be obsessed with this jumpsuit!  Navy is the color of the season, and your bridal party will be so comfortable in this unique alternative to a bridesmaid dress.  I mean seriously... how can you not be in love with the idea a jumpsuit for the big day?  The collection even has an amazing white one that would be perfect for changing into for the reception!

Lastly, my absolutely favorite piece of the collection is this fabulous two-piece.  The texture is definitely something to be said for in itself.  It would be perfect for a boho reception or elopement in Paris.

This collection is not just for bridal parties.  At such a great price point, these dresses also make great cocktail dresses.  Check out Eva Franco's new collection at Lover.ly.com.

Pastel Pink for Spring

In my last post, My Spring Wish List, the first item I listed was a blush moto jacket.  Well I found just what I was looking for!  I found this blush jacket from Forever21, and at an amazing price point!  You cannot beat that.

I was so nervous and excited for it to come in.  The smallest size they had was a small, and being a petite person, I can normally only wear an extra small.  I read the reviews and most said it ran a little small, which luckily for me was true.  When it arrived I was really happy with how it fit. I didn't want to take away from the jacket, so I went with simple pieces to pair with it.  I think this may be my new go-to look for a night out!

Moto Jacket - Forever21 // White v-neck - H&M // Necklace - Stella & Dot (similar) // faux leather leggings - Nordstrom // Black suede booties - Guess (similar) // Crossbody bag - Rebecca Minkoff

My Spring Wish List

I know it seems like this winter is never-ending, but I am counting down the days until spring.  I have already started putting together my list of items that I need to invest in this upcoming season.  With so many gorgeous collections out right now, it's easy to get carried away!

Here are my wish list items for spring:

1. Blush moto jacket - I put this as number one on my list because I have been dying to get my hands on one of these.

2. Nude open-toe booties - I LOVE these ones from Ann Taylor.  They are called 'Natalie' Peeptoe shooties, so I guess that means I have to get them.

3. Passport holder - I am going on my first trip out of the country, next month.  I cannot wait!  This just means I need to get a cute passport holder. I must have this Kate Spade polka dot one!

4. Distressed skinnies - I am not sure why I have not invested in these yet, but they definitely need to become a staple in my wardrobe.

5.  MAC's Heroine - Okay, I really just need to go and buy this lipstick, now.  I have wanted this lipstick since fall.  I think it's about time I go out and get it.

6. Floral Print Midi Skirt- Love, love, love this floral print midi from ModCloth!  They always seem to have best, unique finds, and I cannot wait to get my hands on this one.

7. Long White Coat - I love the crisp look of this white Zara coat.  It is super chic and will be a great spring coat.  I must have this!

Cozy knits + faux leather

 Sweater - Loft // Leggings - Nordstrom // Mid-calf boots - Kohls (similar) // Infinity plaid scarf - hand sewn by yours truly // midi rings - BP. via Nordstrom // single bar ring - BP. via Nordstrom

I love that cozy knit sweaters are in right now.  They are so comfortable, warm and stylish.  I love that this one from Loft is a little longer, too.  It goes perfect with a pair of faux leather leggings, or really any pair of leggings.  With the cold temps and extreme temperatures, I prefer to be warm and comfortable, and this is the perfect outfit for curling up next to a fire.  As much as I cannot wait for spring, I have to say, I will truly miss these cozy cable knit sweaters of winter.

Top Fashion Trends to Add to Your Spring Wardrobe

Okay, okay, I know it is so hard to even think about buying spring clothes when over half the country is experiencing ice storms and below freezing temps.  However, spring just hit stores, and I am loving all the trends that I have been seeing.  All I have to say is that groundhog better not see his shadow on February 2nd.  I cannot wait to start sporting the warm weather trends.

1. Modcloth plaid dress // 2. Ponte plaid print leggings via Nordstrom // 3. Lulus red plaid skirt

Don't worry ladies, plaid is not going anywhere for spring!  However, think plaid in more subtle, pastel tones and finer print.  The "picnic basket plaid" trend is everywhere for spring, and definitely a must-have.

1. TopShop drape cami // 2. Whistles midi skirt via Asos // 3. See by Chloe Crossbody

Another trend I have been seeing a lot of in spring collections is metallic fabrics.  What's great about metallics is that you can wear them all year wrong and they are the perfect layering piece.

1. Free People fringe dress // 2. Francesca's Leander Metal Fringe Necklace // 

3. Free People Foreverly bag

Another Fall trend that is sticking around for spring is fringe.  It is everywhere, and I am not complaining!  This texture goes well as an accessory, and I have even seen it implemented into clothing as well.

1. Asos Blue suede moto jacket // 2. Summit by White Mountain red suede boots via Nordstrom  //

3. Top Shop suede dress

Still unsure of how I feel about this one, but colored suede has been everywhere!  The great thing about suede is that it is so versatile and can be used in clothing, shoes or accessories.

1. Anthropologie ruffled cardigan // 2. La Made ruffled high-low dress // 

3. Forever 21 ruffle sleeve top

Saved the best for last!  Ballerina ruffles are so feminine and such a great texture for spring.   I think this may just be my favorite spring trend!

NYE Style

1.  Embellished Party Dress - Bebe // 2.Fun Garland // 3.Dark Lip - YSL in Prune Avenue // 4. Metallic Clutch - Milly via Nordstrom // 5. Party Pumps - Steve Madden // 6. Statement ring - Kate Spade // 7. Champagne // 8. Cuff - Hermes via The Real Real // 9. Festive Dessert // 10. Sparkley nail palette - Jin Soon via Net-A-Porter

New Years Eve has quickly been becoming one of my favorite holidays simply because it is by far the funnest holiday to dress for.  I love all the sequence and metallic pieces that the night brings on. This is the opportunity of the year to bring out the best - and I wouldn't have it any other way.  I always seem to gravitate towards a form fitting LBD paired with some fun and festive accent pieces made of feathers and sequence; this year is no exception. 

This year I am going with the fringe skirt in my Holiday Party post.  I always love the black and gold look - it's just so classy!  I still have yet to find my accessories, but I am using the above collage as inspiration for the big day.  What are you wearing for New Years Eve?  Do you like to use this opportunity to wear fun items that you can't wear every day? 

Holiday Party Look

 

Holiday parties are right around the corner.  I only have a couple this year, but of course I want to look my best for each one.  One of the best parts of shopping for a fancy holiday look is that you get to load up on sparkles, metallics and fringe, and I did just that for my holiday look.  I purchased this fringe skirt from Express a few weeks ago, and I have been dying to wear it ever since!  I thought it would go great with this metallic top I had in my closet.  I wanted to pair it with a blazer so that the outfit would be sophisticated enough for my holiday work party, so I paired it with this fabulous Loft, leather sleeve blazer.  Lastly, I topped off the look with some fun, sparkly accessories and fun, animal print pumps.  This was by far one of my favorite looks to put together!

Top - Express (similar, similar) // Blazer - Loft (similar) // Skirt - Express (sold out but similar) // Pumps - Moda via DSW // Earrings - Charming Charlie (similar) // Bracelet - Express (similar) // Clutch - DSW

Winter Accessories Edit

Well winter has definitely arrived here in Philadelphia.  It has been so cold lately, and all I want to do it curl up in some comfy clothes with a warm cup of coffee.  One thing I do like about winter is all the cute, chunky accessories.  I like to add in some bright colors, like MAC's Candy Yum Yum lipstick, to liven up the normal dull color pallet of my winter wardrobe.  Jeweled accents always help to top off a great winter look.

1. Top Shop Stole // 2. Forever 21 Beanie // 3. Top Shop Faux Fur headband // 4. Forever 21 Leopard print slippers // 5. Nails Inc. 'Snowflake' nail polish via Nordstrom // 6. 'But first, Coffee' tumbler // 7. Infinity scarf via Nordstrom // 8. Mac 'Candy Yum Yum' lipstick via Nordstrom // 9. H&M Socks // 10. Kate Spade mittons via Lord and Taylor

WHAT TO WEAR: Black Friday Edition

Sweater - Topshop // Joggers - Topshop // Slouched Beanie - Under Armour via Nordstrom // Crossbody - Sole Society // Sneakers - Vince via Bergdorf Goodman

Who says you can't be stylish and comfortable at the same time?  This is my motto for Black Friday Shopping.  You want to wear something that will keep you comfortable all day long, while still maintaining that fab style of yours.  Wear basics such as joggers and a sweater.  Make sure to wear flat, comfy and supportive shoes.  I LOVE these Vince sneakers.  They are stylish and comfortable at the same time.  Bet you didn't think that was possible in a shoe!  Pair off the outfit with some of your favorite accessories and you are ready to break the bank on the biggest shopping day of the year!

Faux Fur

Hat - Charming Charlie // Vest - Target // Top - KMart // Necklace - Francesca's (similar) // pave chain bracelet - JCrew // Open front bangle - Bebe (similar) // Jeans - WHBM (similar) // booties - old unknown brand (similar)


I absolutely love all the hues and textures this Fall/Winter has brought.  Between the fringe, leather, sparkles and faux fur, I cannot get enough!  I think one of the best parts is that there are no rules, and you can layer all these pieces together to get one fabulous look!

One of my favorite trends that I have been seeing is the faux fur vest.  I love it because it can be warn in so many different ways.  Once strictly warn only on cold days at the ski lodge, faux fur has become a staple in the wardrobe of the stylish.  I love that girls are getting more "fabulous" and wearing things such as faux fur and sparkles for trips to the grocery store or a Sunday brunch with friends.  I love dressing up, so why not do it whenever you like?  Embrace the textures and creativity!

Fringe Affair

If you haven't noticed, fringe accents have been all over the place lately.  You can find it on anything from bags, shoes, jackets, etc.  I couldn't be happier!  I love the texture element that is adds to an otherwise basic outfit.  A couple of years ago I scored this amazing fringe crossbody from H&M for about $10.  I loved it then, and I love it now! 

Purse - H&M (Similar, similar)// Jacket - Express // Destructed Tee - American Eagle (similar) // Boots - Unionbay via Kohls // Jeans - White House Black Market // Bracelet - JCrew // Watch - Kate Spade (sold out, but found it on sale here) // Necklace - Urban Outfitters (similar)