Saturday, September 27, 2014

Penn Museum

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Hello! Today, I decided to venture off campus and take advantage of the gorgeous weather. In the morning, my friend, Bri, and I headed to a cute little farmer's market in Manayunk. While there, I picked up some fresh fruits and vegetables and the cutest sunflower. Later, my friend, Britt, and I headed off to explore the Penn Museum. Britt took this photo outside of the museum right before we left. Today was definitely tiring but well worth it!

For my look, I slipped into my sunflower print dress and layered my oversize burgundy sweater over top of it. I love the way the layers of the sweater look with the tiered layers of the dress. I accessorized with a classic burgundy bag. Tan flatforms completed the look. 

Burgundy sweater: Urban Outfitters
Sunflower dress: Publik c/o ShopLately
Tan flatforms: Steve Madden
Burgundy bag: Vintage Etienne Aigner

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

Camouflage & Acid Wash

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Hello! It's really beginning to feel like fall and I couldn't be happier. Going outside to the gentle breeze of fall and the changing colors of leaves instantly brightens my day. Nothing makes me happier than fall does. Fall doesn't only bring about delightful weather but signals a fresh start and a chance to start anew.

For today's look, I donned my acid wash denim dress. This babydoll dress was a staple in my wardrobe this past spring/summer and I am not ready to push it into the back of my wardrobe. The acid wash pattern, breezy fit and short length of the dress make this dress absolutely irresistible in my eyes.  Instead of waiting to wear this dress, I plan on layering, layering, layering and keeping this dress in my fall wardrobe rotation for as long as possible.

I decided to combine the acid wash pattern of the dress with the camouflage print of this jacket. I love pairing different patterns together and love the way that these two prints subtly complement each other. The combination is somewhat reminiscent of the 90's and I can't get enough of it.

I slipped into a pair of opaque tights and threw on a pair of vintage loafers. This pair of vintage loafers has been hiding in my wardrobe for a while and when I spotted them on the shelf in my closet today, I knew that I had to pull them out. They are very classic and I love the almost preppy vibe that they give off. I thrifted these this summer for just $8 and they are probably one of my favorite finds of the entire summer.

Camouflage jacket: Vintage
Opaque tights: Urban Outfitters
Acid wash denim dress: Forever 21
Loafers: Vintage

 

Monday, September 22, 2014

AttachaPack

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Hello! Today, I debuted my new backpack that I received the other day courtesy of AttachaPack. AttachaPack sells customizable backpacks. They come in various different prints and colors and three different styles: the Henley, the Chase and the Tinsley. Finding your perfect backpack is typically very difficult but AttachaPack makes finding your perfect backpack easy as they allow you to design it yourself. 

I began to design my backpack by choosing the style. I went with the Henley backpack which features one medium size pocket. The Henley backpack retails for $49.99. For the base of the backpack, I selected a forest green color, ideal for autumn. For the pocket, I couldn't resist selecting the leopard print pocket. 

I am very pleased with the backpack I designed; the quality is incredible, I love how I was totally able to customize the backpack and the shipping was very quick. If you are in the market for a new backpack, I would definitely recommend checking out AttachaPack. The customizable feature gives the backpack a feeling of luxury. 

I styled the backpack with a neutral sunflower print dress to play up the leopard print on the back pocket. I layered the dress with a knit sweater and opaque tights to make the dress suitable for the fall weather. Black Doc Martens completed the look. 

Knit sweater: Forever 21
Sunflower dress: Publik c/o ShopLately
Opaque tights: Urban Outfitters
Combat boots: Doc Martens
Forest green & leopard backpack: c/o AttachaPack

Thursday, September 18, 2014

Bohemian Inspired

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Hello! This look is by far one of my favorite looks in a while. Recently, I've really been inspired by the bohemian, free-spirited trend and today, I decided that take that inspiration and build my outfit around it. Breezy layers, textured knits and 70's silhouettes are a few of my favorite characteristics of the bohemian trend. I attempted to incorporate those characteristics in this look.

I styled this look around this pair of bell-bottom patterned pants. These pants are very 60's/70's influenced and probably one of my favorite items in my wardrobe currently. Besides accentuating my legs and oozing style, they are incredibly comfortable. 

I styled a slouchy, burgundy knit sweater with the pants emphasizing the colors in the print of the pants. This knit sweater is also one of my favorite items in my wardrobe. I love the combination of textures in the sweater as well as the oversize, breezy shape. Ideal for layering! 

To further enhance the 70's vibe, I slipped on a pair of tan flatforms. Of course, I also love the boost that these babes give me. I can't help but keep reaching for these flatforms again and again (as you can probably tell based on my recent outfit posts.)

I accessorized with boho, stone rings and wooden earrings but they aren't exactly visible in the photos. Oh well!

Hope that you guys are enjoying this fall weather as much as I am! 

Burgundy sweater: Urban Outfitters
Printed pants: Forever 21
Tan flatforms: Steve Madden

Wednesday, September 17, 2014

3 Ways to Transition Your Summer Wardrobe to Fall

Summer to Fall

Option #1: Lightweight dresses in pretty prints dominated my wardrobe this summer and I'm certainly not ready to store them away for next spring/summer. Instead, I plan on working these dresses into my wardrobe this fall/winter. One of the great thing about dresses like the one pictured above is that they are immensely easy to style and layer. For a crisp fall look, pair one of your summer dresses with a heavy knit cardigan, knit socks, heeled ankle booties, a statement necklace and a classic bag in a fun shade.

Summer to Fall 3


Option #2: Oh, how I love my flatform sandals! While these are definitely more of a "warm weather shoe," neutral-colored flatforms can also be styled with a classic sweater and black denim for a minimalistic fall look. Add a bit of prep to the look with tortoiseshell sunglasses and watch. Dark lipstick adds the final autumnal touch to the look. 

Summer to Fall 2

Option #3: Think that you have to abandon your printed shorts just because fall is approaching? Think again! Bring your printed knit shorts out to play this fall by pairing them with a pair of thigh high socks and cozy knit in a chic autumnal color. Accessorize with a shade of bold lipstick, statement necklace and classic crossbody bag. Trendy boots complete the look.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Stripes & Thigh Highs

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Hello! It's on cool fall days like today that I'm the most grateful for going to school in such a pretty area. I love walking around the stunning neighborhoods surrounding my school and studying in the cute park by my school.

Today, I debuted my long-sleeve, striped dress. This past August, I picked this dress up at Forever 21. The neutral colors, classic stripe print and long-sleeve style of the dress drew my eye to this dress. One of the best parts about this dress? It cost less than $15.

This dress is surprisingly comfortable and I look forward to wearing it more this fall. Besides being able to wear this dress on its own, I can't wait to try out several layering options with this dress.

The weather was absolutely beautiful today so I didn't need a sweater or jacket but I did throw on a pair of thigh highs with it. I purchased these thigh highs on the same shopping expedition that I purchased the dress. However, I purchased these thigh high socks at Free People. They cost about $15 which is a fairly good price for a pair of thigh high socks.

If only everything in Free People was that affordable. Going into Free People was the biggest tease; there were so many things that I instantly fell in love with but my wallet told my heart "no." Oh, what I would give for the merchandise inside of Free People! The bohemian, free-spirited mood of the store simply sweeps me off my feet.

I kept my look fairly simple by adding a pair of black combat boots and a black, leather backpack. I also added a swipe of dark lipstick.

Striped dress: Forever 21
Black combat boots: Doc Martens
Black thigh highs: Free People
Lipstick: Wet 'N Wild
Black backpack:  Vintage Guess

 

Monday, September 15, 2014

Mustard Yellow & Camouflage

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Hello! Today, I broke out my mustard yellow dress out of my wardrobe. The bold color, waffled texture and fit-and-flare style of the dress draw me back to this dress whenever I'm unsure of what to wear. The fall weather today was ideal for layering so I slipped a camouflage jacket on over top of the dress. I also slipped on a pair of black thigh highs and combat boots. 

I kept my accessories to a minimum by simply styling a classic watch and white sunglasses with the look. Red lipstick completed the look. 

Black thigh highs: Daily Look
Black combat boots: Doc Martens
Mustard dress: Forever 21
Camouflage jacket: Vintage
Classic watch: Breda Watches c/o ShopLately
Red lipstick: Wet 'N Wild
White sunglasses: Buffalo Exchange

Sunday, September 14, 2014

Caged Platform Booties

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Hello! Nothing makes me happier than weather like today's weather. Sunny skies and the crisp fall air tempted me to spend the day outside. Unfortunately, I had a lot of work that I needed to get done today and spent most of my time running errands and doing schoolwork instead of lounging around outside. 

Today, I styled my look around this navy, forest green and black plaid shirt dress. This is my ideal fall dress; the deep colors, classic shape and versatility of the dress have me falling head over heels in love with it. 

Plaid shirtdresses are definitely trending at the moment and if you don't have one yet, I would recommend looking around for and investing in one. Besides being stylish and "in", plaid shirtdresses can be styled numerous different ways. Check out my recent blog post for various different ways to style plaid shirtdresses HERE

To accentuate my waist, I tied a black knit sweater over the dress. I also threw on a pair of black cut-out boots. Recently, I purchased these boots from Daily Look. These are the "Caged Platform Booties" and they retail for $49.99 HERE. I am very pleased with the purchase; they fit true to size and are very good quality. However, they aren't the most comfortable worn without socks so I threw on a pair of gray socks with them today. I look forward to wearing these boots a lot more often this fall. I adore the cut-out style and heel of the boot. 

I layered up on golden accessories with several golden necklaces, rings, a classic watch and a small golden bag. Round sunglasses completed my look. 

Plaid shirt dress: H&M
Black sweater: Thrifted
Gray socks: H&M
Cut-out boots: Daily Look
Golden bag: Urban Outfitters
Classic watch: Breda Watches c/o ShopLately
Golden spiked necklace: Lily Wang c/o ShopLately
Golden statement necklace: Kristin Perry Accessories c/o ShopLately
Round sunglasses: Zoo Shoo c/o ShopLately
Golden rings: Assorted (vintage and etsy) 

Friday, September 12, 2014

Links A La Mode September 11th

lalam0911


Hello! This past week, I was chosen for IFB's Links A La Mode for my "3 Ways to Style A Plaid Shirtdress" post. Many other great posts were selected also so be sure to check them out!


So Many Great Pieces

This week had so many great links, it was super hard to decide which ones to pick. Like a wardrobe filled with amazing clothing, sometimes it's just overwhelming to chose the best among greats. I know, #firstworldproblems. Leave it to us to find a way to complain about being so lucky. This week, it's all about having fun, enjoying life and getting on top of things. You know, striking the perfect balance. Sure, the perfect balance doesn't exist, but it's sure as heck worth trying!

September 11th, 2014

SPONSOR: Shopbop Amber Sceats, Day Birger, Public School, Etudes Studio, Men's LBT, CSBLA, Doma, Sophie Hulme, Dav, Furla Bags & Women's Watches

Want to be featured in Links à la Mode?

1. Read the clarified rules and submit your links on this page: Links à la Mode. 2. If your link was selected and you need this week’s code, visit this page: Links à la Mode Code.

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Black & White

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Hello! Today, I stuck to a classic black and white color pallette; I styled my look around this daisy babydoll dress. To transform the dress from summer to fall, I layered a long black cardigan over the dress. I purchased this cardigan a few weeks ago from Goodwill for less than $5- talk about a steal! The oversize shape and versatility of the sweater make this the ideal sweater for layering over dresses this season. I have a feeling that I will be wearing this dress on repeat for the next few months. 

I accentuated my twiggy legs with black platform heels. Red lipstick, a classic watch and round sunglasses completed my look. 

Daisy dress: Buffalo Exchange
Black heels: Jeffrey Campbells
Long black cardigan: Thrifted
Classic watch: Breda Watches c/o ShopLately
Round sunglasses: ZooShoo c/o ShopLately
Red lipstick: Wet 'N Wild 


***Be sure to check out and enter my giveaway for a pair of fall inspired earrings HERE and a pair of Jamberry Nail decals HERE

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

3 Ways to Style a Plaid Shirtdress

Plaid Shirtdress Option 1

Option #1: Trendy with an edge. To add a bit of edge to your plaid shirtdress, pair it with a fierce, black leather jacket and studded statement bag. Boost your look up a few inches with a pair of killer heels. Finish your look off with a statement necklace and trendy sunglasses.


Option 2

Option #2: Schoolgirl chic. Bring out your inner schoolgirl by pairing your plaid shirtdress with a pair of thigh-high socks, simple backpack and chic oxfords. Jazz the look up with a layered pearl necklace and dark lipstick. 


Option 3

Option #3: Bohemian free spirit. Start with a plaid shirtdress in soft colors such as navy, red and tan. Play up your inner free spirit by pairing the dress with a pair of navy flatforms and floppy hat. A simple tote bag, tortoishell sunglasses and a pop of red lipstick perfect the look. 

Which look is your favorite? 

Monday, September 8, 2014

Red Lipstick & High Rise Denim

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Hello! It is finally beginning to feel like fall here in Philadelphia. Today's crisp fall air and breeze reminded me of why I enjoy autumn so much. 

I broke out my new black high-rise jeans today. I recently purchased this pair of high-rise black denim from Urban Outfitters on sale for $39. They originally retail for close to $60. The stretchy fit and high-rise style of these jeans make them the perfect fall/winter investment. Additionally, the classic black color makes them easy to style with numerous different pieces in my wardrobe. 

I decided to go for a primarily black look and styled a black tank top and black sunglasses with the jeans. I added a dash of color with a denim button down, tan flatforms and bold red lipstick.

Now if only the weather could stay like this forever!

Black high-rise jeans: BDG via Urban Outfitters
Black tank top: H&M
Denim button down: Thrifted
Tan flatforms: Steve Madden
Black cat-eye sunglasses: c/o Giant Vintage
Red lipstick: Wet 'N Wild 


***Be sure to check out and enter my giveaway for a pair of fall inspired earrings HERE and a pair of Jamberry Nail decals HERE

Saturday, September 6, 2014

Jamberry Nails Giveaway

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Hello! Recently, Jessica Harris from Jamberry Nails contacted me about doing a product review and a giveaway. Jessica Harris has been a Jamberry Consultant for 6 months and absolutely loves it! Her favorite thing is that they're made in the USA and there is ZERO dry time.

When I saw her email in my inbox, I was thrilled. This summer, I had overheard people talking (and raving) about Jamberry Nails but I wasn't really sure what Jamberry Nails was or what the big deal was.

Jessica explains "Jamberry Nails are a new and innovative way to avoid nail polish drying time, chipping and pricey visits to the salon. They are a DIY DREAM. They come in over 300+ designs (plus a nail art studio where you can design your own!).  They last up to 2 weeks on fingernails, 6 weeks on toenails and WILL NOT CHIP. They are a vinyl adhesive wrap that is heat activated and pressure sealed to the nail. They will NOT damage your nail when removed properly (unlike the gels and acrylics I used to frequent), which I can show you. They are so much fun!"

Essentially, Jamberry Nails are stylish nail wraps that are easy to apply and don't chip like regular manicures do.

Jessica sent me the black nail decals to test out. My roommate helped me apply the nail decals earlier this morning. The directions and application kit made it easy to understand how to apply the nail decals. However, I think that I may have struggled with doing the nails without the help of my roommate (for the first time ever using nail decals at least.) I think there is definitely a learning curve to applying the nails and I look forward to using more Jamberry nail decals in the future. I would definitely recommend checking Jamberry Nails out! Shop my Jamberry Nails party HERE.

To request a sample of Jamberry Nails, like Jessica's Jamberry Nail page on Facebook HERE and click on the sample request google doc.

Today, Jessica is giving away a set of Jamberry Nails decals (your choice).

The giveaway is open to all readers. It will run from today until September 20th and the winner will be contacted by September 22nd. To enter the giveaway, you must enter through the rafflecopter app below (which ensures a fair giveaway.)  In order to enter the giveaway, you must like Jessica's Jamberry Nails page on Facebook and follow my blog. There are also a few additional, optional entries that you can complete is you wish (by doing so, you will have a higher chance of winning).

So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and enter!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, September 5, 2014

Free Spirit

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Hello! For this look, I debuted my new pair of printed pants. I purchased these pants from Forever 21 for a little less than $15 this past August. The bohemian print and bellbottom flare of these pants make for a showstopping look. Even better, they are made out of a soft fabric similar to fabric that leggings are made out of so they are incredibly comfortable. I love the way that they cling to my body and elongate my legs. 

After wearing these pants, I wish that I had stocked up on similar pairs on my trip to Forever 21. They are so hippie-chic and reminiscent of the 60's/70's that I can't help but swoon over them. 

I paired a black peplum top with the pants. I accessorized with a black backpack, bold statement necklace that accentuated the colors present in the print of the pants and with tortoiseshell round sunglasses that emphasized the free-spirited hippie look. Tan flatforms completed the 60's/70's inspired look.

Black peplum top: Forever 21
Printed pants: Forever 21
Tan flatform sandals: Steve Madden
Black leather backpack: Guess
Statement necklace: Kristin Perry Accessories c/o Shop Lately
Round sunglasses: ZooShoo c/o Shop Lately

**Be sure to enter my giveaway to win a pair of fall inspired earrings HERE

Thursday, September 4, 2014

Daily Look

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Hello! The heat continues to linger in Philadelphia; it's been in the high 80's and low 90's this past week. And it's driving me up the wall; I'm beyond ready to break out thigh-high socks, cozy sweaters and boots. Oh fall weather, where are you?

For this look, I decided to break out my new bold, printed dress. I recently purchased this dress for $39.99 on Daily Look here. This is the "exotic print cold shoulder dress."

Initially, the print of this dress is what drew me in; the detailed print reminds me of early Byzantine artwork. Additionally, the cut-out sleeves of this dress are a unique design detail and I love the attention that they draw to my shoulders. Even better? This dress is the perfect length for showing off my legs! I further emphasized my legs by donning a sky-high pair of Jeffrey Campbell platform heels.

While this dress is the perfect lightweight dress for the current weather, I also look forward to layering it with knits and socks later this fall/winter. I have a feeling that this dress will be kept in constant outfit rotation this season.

Large golden earrings completed my look.

Printed dress: Daily Look
Black heels: Jeffrey Campbells
Golden earrings: Charlotte Russe

**Be sure to enter my giveaway to win a pair of fall inspired earrings HERE.

Wednesday, September 3, 2014

Wander Mission

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Hello! Today, I have a new etsy shop to introduce to you guys- Wander Mission. Wander Mission was founded by fellow Philadelphia University classmate, Chantal King. Wander Mission sells stylish, printed headbands that sell for between $5-$7. Talk about a steal!

Yesterday, we got together for a brief photoshoot. Chantal gave me the "Sunflower Turban Headband" to review. It retails for $7 in Wander Mission here. I am absolutely in love with this headband- the playful print and lovely colors make this a wonderful addition to my wardrobe.

For my look, I decided to pair the headband with this green polka dot dress to play up the colors in the headband. Red lipstick, white sunglasses and flatforms completed my look.

Read below to hear more about Wander Mission.

What do you major in at Philadelphia University? I am in the five year physician assistants program.

What drew you to your major? I have always loved the medical field and knew I wanted to do medicine since I was a child. As I grew older, I was drawn to physician assistant's  because they have more interaction with patients then doctors do and also physician assistants are able to work in any field of medicine as opposed to specializing in only one field like doctors. Also, I just love helping people and I felt that being a Physician assistant would allow me to make a difference in the quickest way possible.

When did you open Wander Mission? February 9th, 2014

How did you decide on the shop name? I decided on the name Wander Mission because I felt it combined my desire to travel the world and my desire to help people on my travels.

Why did you decide to open Wander MissionI started wander mission when I found out I was going to Ghana over the summer of 2014 to help with a medical clinic. Wander Mission was a way to raise money for the trip and medications. When I graduate from college, I plan on moving overseas and serving in a medical clinic. The purpose of Wander Mission now is to help me build my mission fund.

What has been the biggest struggle in opening your shop? The biggest struggle has been getting the word out. Opening the shop was not too difficult and making the headbands was not too difficult, but marketing my headband and letting people know about my shop has been a little hard.

What is your favorite part of running your own etsy shop? My favorite part of running my shop is watching it grow and continually working on it. It is really cool to see something you've started and worked hard on flourish overtime. It's just an amazing feeling!

What advice would you give to those looking to open their own etsy shop? My advice would be to keep working hard and not give up! Your business is not going to be a success overnight. Keep believing in what you're doing and eventually your shop will flourish. Also, make sure that you love your products and love what you're doing so that it always remains fun and not a hassle!

Be sure to check out Wander Mission here and pick up a new headband for your fall wardrobe!

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Insou Jewelry Giveaway

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Hello! Today, I have a giveaway for you guys. When Sousan and Iness from Insou Jewelry reached out to me regarding a giveaway, I was thrilled for you guys.

Insou Jewelry specializes in unique handmade polymer clay jewelry. They sell necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Their gorgeous statement pieces are sure to immediately draw attention to your look. I'm really falling for the fall leaf statement necklaces; they have the potential to transform an outfit from blah to breathtaking.

Today, Insou Jewelry is providing a pretty pair of autumn earrings to one lucky reader. These fall earrings feature hand sculpted acorns and leaves in yellow- golden tones, decorated with Czech glass beads. They hang on gold plated hooks. Each leaf and acorn is hand sculpted with polymer clay.
Total length is 2.4 in (6 cm). Similar earrings retail for about $25 in their etsy shop.

The giveaway is open to all readers. It will run from today until September 16th and the winner will be contacted by September 18th. To enter the giveaway, you must enter through the rafflecopter app below (which ensures a fair giveaway.) You MUST "like" Insou Jewelry on Facebook and follow my blog in order to enter the giveaway. There are also a few additional, optional entries that you can complete is you wish (by doing so, you will have a higher chance of winning).

So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and enter!

  a Rafflecopter giveaway