Things I'm Loving Right Now

It's the end of January, but the only thing on my mind is spring! I'm getting sick of the wind (not that it'll go away in a few months, but it'll definitely be warmer), cold and extremely dry air. My poor skin!
So here are some of my current lusts--I probably won't get much use out of them until warmer weather rolls around, but I can still look forward to using/wearing them.

• Hollister's Scripps Pier dress (in light green, $39.50). Actually, I'm kinda liking most of their dresses, but I don't have much green in my wardrobe and I especially like the styling of this dress. Spring must-have.
• Coach's latest Poppy bags. I'm addicted to purses, and I especially love Coach's Poppy line. The bags are just so bright, girly and pretty that I can't resist them. The Petal Print Glam tote ($198) is probably my favorite right now.
• Wedge sandals. Oh, flip-flops, you'll always be one of my favorite shoes, but I'm really feeling the love for wedges right now. I'd like some in a pretty ballet pink (Donald J Pliner Sameh, $250) or a sunny yellow (Diba Dance With Me, $69.95).
• Bath & Body Works Island Escape Collection. Can you say tropical vacation? These are like a Caribbean adventure in a bottle. My favorite so far is the Fiji Passionfruit, but I've gotta try them all. Yum.

What do you want this spring?

Freshman Year...Take Two!

Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I just started my second semester of my freshman year of college yesterday and I'm already swamped with work! I guess second semester really is a lot harder than first. Hopefully, I'll still be able to keep up with blogging :)
Back-to-school for me means...new clothes! I got and bought plenty of new stuff over Christmas break and I'm using these first two weeks back to show them off. Most of the clothes are appropriate for winter, which is definitely great, since it snowed here today! I am already ready for spring...but the colder weather inspired me to do a post about making a good first impression during second semester. Most people have all new classes, and it's a great opportunity to start anew, make new friends and possibly redefine your style. This last one can be hard to do if you're used to comfort, especially in these wintery months.
I am still vowing not to wear sweats to class...no matter how cold it is or how tired I am. I'm waking up two hours before I have to go to class so I have time to put on a nice outfit, fix my hair and apply makeup. I've decided to plan my outfits a week in advance, so I don't spend an hour staring at my closet, wondering what to wear.
This is an outfit I would definitely wear to classes--it's comfortable and warm without looking like I just threw it on. I like how all the colors play off each other (the jacket even matches the blue flowers on the cardigan!), the fringe booties add a touch of boho and the pearl bracelet makes the outfit refined and girly.

What does the new year/second semester mean for you?

Sale at Victoria's Secret

Sorry I haven't posted in a while--our wireless modem broke down and we had to wait a few days til our internet was back up again. It sure felt like the "old days" with no technology to me!
Today, I went to Victoria's Secret, since they were having a sale on a lot of their bras and panties. Being a college student, I need all of those I can get, so I can do laundry a lot less often! VS is my favorite place to get good-quality bras and their panties are quite adorable. Unfortunately, they're usually a bit expensive. But with their semi-annual sale, going on right now, you can score great deals on the hottest essentials.
Every store will be different, but yours should have a good selection; order online if you want even more options.
I have a small bust (32A) but I was able to find a cute demi-cup push-up bra in my size. For those of you with smaller busts like mine, a great push-up bra can work wonders. Demi-cups are also great because they create cleavage.
So check out your VS and VS PINK stores to get a lot of essentials for a low price!

Cute bras and panties for less? Count me in!

 



Thinking About Tanks

A blizzard is supposed to blow in here overnight, and while I like the snow, I can't help but wish it were spring break already. I'm ready to break out the dresses and sandals!
One of my unofficial resolutions for this year is to try some new things, fashion-wise. I've always been more of a cami girl than a tank top girl, but I have a feeling that that's going to change in 2011! I love babydoll tanks, but I'd also like to try some basic tanks, with a little extra detailing. Tank tops are perfect for spring weather, but can also work during the winter under hoodies and cardigans.
Some of the latest trends include tiny buttons, lace (always a classic), floral neckline detailing, ruffled tiers and waist drawstrings. Look for tanks in go-with-everything shades, such as navy and dark grey, or more poppin' tones, like lemon and coral. Wear them alone, underneath a springy cardigan, layered over other tanks and under plaid button-downs. There's no limit to what you can do with tank tops!

What tank tops are you lusting for this spring?

Spring Wishlist

Palm Canyon
$40 - hollisterco.com
Floral dresses »

Little Dume
$40 - hollisterco.com
Hollister Co. tops »

Amy
$35 - abercrombie.com
Tiered skirts »

Avalon Place
$24 - hollisterco.com
Cotton mini skirts »

Strands Point
$40 - hollisterco.com
Hollister Co. »

El Matador
$35 - hollisterco.com
Hollister Co. »

Rolling Hills
$27 - hollisterco.com
Hollister Co. »

Hobson Park
$16 - hollisterco.com
Hollister Co. »

Women's - Sandals + Flip Flops - American Eagle Outfitters
$30 - pics.ae.com

Hollister Co. > Bettys > Tanks & Camis > Ormond Beach
$20 - hollisterco.com

CLOTHING - SWIM - Tops - sandy point

Gilly Hicks Official Site
gillyhicks.com

CLOTHING - SWIM - Bottoms - sandy point
Gilly Hicks Official Site
gillyhicks.com

CLOTHING - ACCESSORIES - FLIP FLOPS
Gilly Hicks Official Site
gillyhicks.com

CLOTHING - TOPS - Tanks & Camis
Gilly Hicks Official Site
gillyhicks.com

What's on your spring wishlist?

Window Shopping & Online Ordering

Today, it was just me and my mom since my dad was at work and my sister started school again yesterday. My mom always has Fridays off so we had a little girl-to-girl time this afternoon. We grabbed salads for lunch at Elephant Bar and then headed to the mall.
I was trying to find a sweater at Hollister. Most of the store was 40-50% off, so I hoped I could find it at the store so I wouldn't have to pay for shipping. It was an Epic Only style, but occasionally the store stocks some overflow items. Unfortunately, they didn't have that sweater but I found several other cute things I debated about buying but ended up leaving empty-handed. One of them was the Big Dume button-down shirt ($19.75) in navy plaid. I liked it because I don't have much plaid in my wardrobe and it has sparkly thread. I also checked out the jeans and liked the Cali Flares ($23.70) in rinse. I decided I would rather get another pair of slouchy jeans from American Eagle so I could use up the rest of my gift card. The Fallbrook twill pants ($19.75) in stone were also cute--a few posts back I explained that I bought them and then decided to return them--but I'm still not completely sold on them. If I had had more money, I probably would have bought them. The spring collection had a lot of great pieces, but since none of them were on clearance, I left the store without buying anything.
When I got home, I ordered the Dixon Lake sweater ($29.90) in burgundy online. I got such a good deal on it, since it originally cost $79.50! I fell in love with it the moment I saw it and knew I had to have it, but when Christmas came and went, I thought it would be gone for sure. With standard shipping, it only ended up costing me about $40, which is still a fraction of the original price. I haven't ordered anything online in quite a while, mostly because I hate paying for shipping, but in the future, if I like an Epic Only item, I'll just spend a few extra bucks and order it since it'll be worth it.
I can't wait to get my sweater when it comes--I'm just hoping it comes before I have to leave for school in a little over a week.
Do you order things online? Do you mind paying for shipping? What's the best part of ordering online?

Obsessed!

One of my recent posts was a list of my fashion confessions. Now I want to do a post on some of the things I'm obsessed with--pieces I have a lot of in my closet or just can't get enough of.

• SWEATERS: Who can ever have too many of this wardrobe staple? Mine come in all the colors of the rainbow (minus yellow and black, because I hate black), many styles from button-down cardigan to open fit and all kinds of detailing. I still have room for more...
• FLIP-FLOPS: No, not the cheap-o rubber kind you wear to the pool. I always buy leather or faux-leather, and I'm on the lookout for cute details. This spring and summer, I'm looking for glammed-up sandals.
• BABYDOLL TANKS: I'm a little upset, because I haven't been able to find these at any of my favorite stores in quite a few months. Maybe spring will bring a new crop of these. They're great for every frame and in my opinion, more flattering than fitted tank tops.
• JEANS: Um, okay, who isn't a little obsessed with jeans? I've got a pair of dark-wash boot cuts (American Eagle), two pairs of dark-wash flares (AE & Abercrombie Kids), a pair of light-wash destroyed boy fits (AE) and two pairs of dark wash boy fits/slouchies (both AE). I'm still hunting down the perfect pair of destroyed dark-wash jeans, preferably in AE's new slouchy fit. I've never been a big fan of skinnies but I like a little variety in my jeans.
• DRESSES/SKIRTS: I am such a girly-girl. If I could live in miniskirts and sundresses every day, I would. Of course, the Colorado climate doesn't quite allow for that, but I make do by pairing my minis with tights during the winter. I stick with my more muted colors, so it works for the season, but unfortunately, I don't have a dress yet that doesn't scream "summer". Definitely on my wishlist.

Spring Ahead

The holidays have come and gone and once again it's that time of year that I don't really like. The weather's pretty blah, I have to go back to school in a little less than two weeks, there aren't any holidays for awhile and I'm longing for spring break! Luckily, stores are already springing ahead and stocking pieces that will be more appropriate in two months but nevertheless, they remind me that the world goes on and soon enough it'll be springtime again.
American Eagle's already got a pretty decent selection of springwear in stores and online. I went shopping there a week ago and I was surprised to find that most of their winter stuff was gone or on the clearance racks. I did get a pretty good deal on a pair of their new jeans style, slouchy. They look best cuffed and will be perfect as spring capris. Be warned that they only come in regular length, so if you're a petite like me, they'll fit more like crops. But they're a great alternative to the ever-popular skinny jeans and can still work in the winter by tucking them into boots. The AE Sky-High Wedge Sandal ($49.50) is a simple wedge that will look great with the slouchy jeans or any other cropped pants. You'll stand tall in these no matter where you go in them.
Hollister is currently offering their Spring Preview, where you can check out their spring 2011 styles online before they're available in all stores. The Palm Canyon dress ($39.50) is a flirty floral dress perfect for picnics and luncheons. For that spring break trip, invest in a new swimsuit, like the Royal Palms Beach Blue bikini (top, $34.50, bottom, $24.50, Epic Only). It's perfect for those of us with smaller busts that need a little oomph--it has a padded push-up top and the floral pattern will fill out your chest in a natural-looking way.
If you've missed your shorts, why not hit up A&F for the latest trend--high waisted shorts? The Beth shorts ($58) are perfect at elongating your legs, which is a problem a lot of us petites have. They come in sizes 00-12, so they'll fit a variety of frames. They've also got a great selection of blouses that are great if you want to show off your girly side. The Belle shirt ($58) is classic and delicate.
Get ready to dive into spring head-first with all these new arrivals!

A Few Fashion Confessions

On some of the blogs I follow, I've come across lists of confessions, whether life-related or more focused on a specific topic. They've inspired me to come up with my own list of fashion confessions.

• I don't do casual. 'Casual' for me still involves some planning and accessorizing. I put on makeup every day even if I'm not leaving the house. I just feel better about myself if I put in some effort, even if no one else notices. I never wear sweats except to bed. Even in my most 'casual' outfit (a Hollister hoodie that isn't at all baggy and a nice pair of dark wash jeans), I still wear jewelry, fix my hair and put on a pair of cute shoes.
• I am obsessed with planning. I always plan my outfits a week in advance by checking out the weather forecast and I get a little upset if I have to change my plans. This way, I don't have to stress out in the morning deciding what to wear.
• The only thing I own over $100 are purses. And I got them for my birthday or Christmas, so I didn't have to pay for them. Everything else, I try to buy on clearance at my favorite stores or at least spend under $50 if they are full-price.
• I pretty much only buy clothes from five stores. Abercrombie & Fitch, Abercrombie Kids, American Eagle, Gilly Hicks (online only) and Hollister. I like to think that I'm a loyal customer. And before you accuse me of blending in with the crowd, I rarely buy graphic hoodies or tees that everyone else wears. I get the sweaters, the babydoll tanks, the plaid shirts, the flip-flops that few others I see buy.
• I like matching. A lot. Probably too much, so I'm trying new color combinations to see how they play off each other. Matching can be a good thing, but I don't want to get caught in a rut.
• I love high-heels, but can't wear them very long. Even though I'm only 5'1, I usually end up wearing flats because they're way more comfortable than heels, especially when trekking across campus. I have three pairs of wedges that I only wear during the summer, but I hope to get more. I also hope I can learn to walk in them better, and not get blisters on my pinky toe.
• I am 'addicted' to shopping. Okay, so I'm not like a compulsive shopper, but I really love any shopping trip. It gives me such a high. But since I only have a debit card, I'm forced to stay within the limits of the money I actually have. Which is a good thing.

What are your 'fashion confessions'?



The only times you'll catch me in casual wear are when I'm sledding and sleeping!

New Style in the New Year

2011 has just begun and what better time to switch up your style, even a little bit? Stores are still offering their post-Christmas clearance prices and new spring stuff is just arriving. If you've always wanted to try something new with your wardrobe, why not start right now?

• GIRLY: Never been the type to like delicate pieces? Why not try to incorporate a few into your closet. Spring is one of the best seasons for all things feminine--floral shirts, flouncy skirts and the cutest accessories abound. American Eagle has some great new things you can add in with your winter stuff now, or wait a few months to wear. Try the AE Layered Floral Cami ($34.50) or the AE Skinny Leather Belt ($19.50).
• EDGY: Ready for a little more 'rough & tumble'? You don't need a tough girl attitude to pull this style off (though it doesn't hurt!) Try the new AE Slouchy Jean ($39.95, in navy cloud) and the AE Jeweled T-Strap Sandal ($29.50)--they'll look extra-edgy together!
• SPORTY: Shying away from the 'jockette' look? Don't be--it can be totally fierce if you do it right. Start off with a bright jacket, like Hollister's Fountain Valley ($79.50, in red), put on a contrasting swimsuit underneath (Warner Springs, $39, in coral) and you'll be ready for some beach volleyball!
• CLASSIC: Don't mistake this for boring--it's actually preppy and professional. A&F has some great ways to try this out...like the Marisa button-down ($58)--it's the basic striped blouse with a colorful twist--or the Addison pants ($40.60)--twill pants go with everything and the cuffs are unexpected.

Make a fashion resolution in the new year...resolve to try something new and a little out of your comfort zone--you'll never know unless you try!

PIOTD: Sleds & Snow

Happy New Year, everyone! Hope your NYE went well--mine was very fun and eventful until I fell asleep at 2 am (I blame it on being out all afternoon).
Today I got the chance to go sledding after it snowed on Thursday night. It was a great way to spend New Years Day and the cold air and sunshine were quite refreshing. The best part was, I didn't have to drive anywhere to find a decent sledding hill--I have one right in my own backyard! We live on 5 acres of land covered in pine trees, and the back part of our property has some nice hills. The snow wasn't very deep or packed, but it was still fun.

My PIOTD relates to the snow and sledding. I took a picture of my bright orange sled on top of the hill and it inspired me to do a post about brightly-colored outerwear.

Check out American Eagle, Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch for some great deals on all outerwear and winter accessories. Most of their winter stuff is on sale now to make room for spring arrivals so buy now while you still can and stay warm the rest of this winter and beyond!