Then & Now [Hollister Floral Skirt]



THEN [August 14, 2009]: cropped burgundy cardi (HCo., fall 2008); dark grey lace cami (Pac Sun, summer 2008); burgundy/navy abstract floral skirt (HCo., fall 2009); brown faux leather stilettos (Famous Footwear, summer 2009)





NOW [September 20, 2011]: grey lace-front tee (HCo., fall 2011); owl pendant necklace (AE, fall 2011); burgundy/navy abstract floral skirt (HCo., fall 2009); navy sparkle tights (AE, Christmas 2010)

 Isn't it crazy how things change so much in just 2 years? Looking back, I can't believe that I was a senior in high school only 2 years ago--time really does fly. I feel so much more mature now, having a whole year (and 5 weeks!) of college under my belt.

One thing that hasn't changed quite as much is my wardrobe. In both of the OOTD photos above, I'm wearing a skirt that I love! It's awesome for fall, because it's in muted shades, and layers well over tights. As you can probably guess, it's gotten a lot of wear in the 2 years I've owned it. It may seem a little strange that a very young adult like me would still have a piece I had 2 years ago, but I actually have a few other pieces that I've owned since I was a freshman in high school!

Honestly, my style has changed somewhat. I'm trying to dress more sophisticatedly, while still having fun with my clothes. I think I'm more of a rule-breaker now, and I'm not as afraid to take fashion risks. 2 years ago, I doubt I would have bought a lace tee or an owl pendant, but now I own both and I love 'em. I still like the colorblocking that I did in the picture from 2 years ago, but I'm doing it in new ways and working towards being comfortable with mixing patterns.

Some things change, but others stay them same, and that's just how I like it! Hopefully, I'll be able to hold onto this skirt for another 2 years!


Do you have any pieces in your closet that you've had for awhile?

Fall Must-Haves



Grey knit duster cardi (A&F, winter 2011); burgundy plaid tunic (A&F Kids, hand-me-down); navy culotte shorts (A&F, summer 2011); navy sparkle tights (AE, Christmas 2010)


Duster cardigans. Capelet jackets. Moccasin booties. Tights. Loop scarves. Slouchy skinnies. Tall boots. What do these have in common? They're my fall must-haves!

This past weekend, I rediscovered the joy that is layering. I missed it over the summer, when temps were rarely cooler than 85. But Saturday was a nice relief from the heat, and made me crave fall. Though it felt a little weird at first to be wearing such a thick sweater when it's still technically summer, I love how cute and cozy it looked with my tunic, culottes and tights. And it inspired me to hunt down more duster cardis. I think they look really cute over skirts or shorts with tights.

Accessorizing is key for fall--that's where the scarves, jackets, tights and boots come in! I have a few pairs of tights (the sparkly navy ones above, light grey sweater tights, brown, brown striped leggings and cream pointelle ones) but a girl can always use a few more pairs, right? I love how they look with boots, which is why I'm lusting after a pair of tall, non-Ugg-style boots. They look totally polished but still casual. Scarves make me feel cozy, and they're a great alternative to necklaces. And capelet-type jackets are great for slightly chilly fall days.

 

What's on your fall must-have list?

Sock It To Me!

Socks used to be the forgotten accessory. Who really cares that much about socks, anyway? No one will see them (probably), so does it really matter if they're cute (or match, for that matter)?

This season, a lot of my favorite stores are selling socks. Not just any old socks, but cute socks. All kinds of patterns and colors. Knee-high and slouchy, they're perfect for a bold school girl look with a mini skirt and cardi. Or if you're feeling shy, you can let just a little sock peek out from cropped boyfriend jeans. Socks are totally versatile, and are great for cooler days when you want to stay warm but still want to look good.

What is your favorite way to rock socks?

[Small] Mall Haul

Shopping is one of my favorite activities, but I really don't buy anything that often, maybe 6 or so times per year. Mostly, I end up getting one or two things at a time to add in to my closet but every once in a while, I have an unexpected haul. In my last haul earlier this summer, I snagged a few items for a great price and I've been able to wear them many times since. This shopping trip, I was determined to avoid anything too summery (since I won't get too many more chances to wear it) and instead find a few pieces that can transition well into fall and also work right now. I think I was pretty successful!

HOLLISTER




(sorry about the iPod photos!) multi floral tank top (A&F, 2010); Tecolote Canyon twill shorts in navy (HCo.)

When I saw that these were only $15 (originally $29.50), I snapped them up. They also have them in white and khaki, but I've got a pair of khaki shorts already and white isn't practical for me. They also have the Brooks Beach shorts for $15, which are similar but are cuffed. My sister bought the same shorts (even the same color!) earlier in the summer. Now we can be shorts twins ;)




Orange cropped hoodie (HCo., similar here); navy/orange floral button-down babydoll cami (HCo., 2008); destroyed denim miniskirt (HCo., 2010)

When I saw this cropped hoodie, I was a little confused. I had bought the exact same hoodie (but in aqua) a year ago on clearance--why was this still in stores? But when I saw the price ($7.90) I knew I couldn't pass it up. I can always use a little more orange in my closet.

ABERCROMBIE & FITCH




April ruffled tank in pink (A&F); Deidra cuffed twill shorts in dark brown (A&F)

I had just discovered these shorts while browsing online just before I left to go shopping. I fell in love because brown is my favorite neutral and I have a new obsession with twill shorts. Plus these are cuffed, making them even better for nicer events. Also available in light grey (they didn't have my size, unfortunately), light pink (I like pink but I shy away from very colorful shorts) and white, all $20 (originally $40). These shorts will work great in the fall because of their muted color. I also found this tank for just $26.60 (30% off original price of $38) and liked how pretty it was. The color is totally different than anything in my closet, but it's very girly, which I love. This is available in light grey, drak grey (would have bought if I had had more money to spend), navy and white. I had a 20% off entire purchase card, so the two items cost just under $40. 

Do you wear shorts in the fall? Favorite neutral shade? 

Check Out AE's Winter Warm-Up!

The problem: winter is sooooo cold! (well, depending on where you live) The solution: lots of cozy, cute winter clothes!
AE's got that covered with their brand-new collection, Winter Warm-Up. It features their great jeans, which come in all kinds of styles and washes, from skinnies and jeggings to boot cuts and vintage flares.
Check out their Looks of the Season for 12 totally different outfits that will keep you warm and looking good this winter. My favorites are Lofty Luxe (the one in the middle), Modern Military (the one on the right) and Winter Warm-Up (the one on the right).
One plus is that right now, they are offering 8 pairs of jeans under $30 which is a great deal. I have quite a few pairs of their denim, from shorts to skirts to jeans, and I love them all. They don't fall apart easily but are much cheaper than designer denim, so if you're on a budget, I suggest you check out American Eagle. They have sizes from 00 to 18 (even sizes only) and short, regular, long and extra-long inseams so they should fit almost anyone!
If you're an AE lover like me, or are curious to see what they're all about, swing by your local store and you're guaranteed to find some great deals on some super-cute things. Oh, and every week from now until Christmas, they're offering a Favorite Gift of the Week through email so be sure to sign up if you haven't already and get ready to be gifted!

Something Unexpected

A simply cute outfit (all I need now is the
tank top and ballet flats!)

If you've been reading some of my posts lately, you'll know that I've been hunting down the perfect jeans. I only have 3 or 4 pairs in my closet and I was looking for a couple more but I was having the hardest time finding ones that weren't all spandex-y or too low-rise or way too long in the length.

I got to spend some much-needed time with my family this past weekend, as it was Homecoming and family weekend on my campus, and on Friday afternoon my mom, sister and I hit up the local mall to buy a few things. Unfortunately, the stores there didn't have the best selection, so I only ended up buying the Boat Canyon zip-up hoodie in dark red ($29.89) from Hollister. But it was fine, since I don't have much red in my closet and the hoodie was on clearance.

Then later, my mom told me she had a surprise for me: she had ordered me a pair of jeans online from Abercrombie Kids! I was ecstatic, since I'd been talking about trying to get some jeans from there lately. The closest store is almost an hour away from our house, so it would have been kind of a pain to go to the store, especially since I'm in college now so my mom wouldn't want to waste a whole day driving. So she ordered a size 14 for me, hoping it would fit and wouldn't be too long.
The next day, I checked my dorm mail and sure enough, there it was! When we got back to our hotel that night, I tried them on. I didn't expect them to fit snugly, since most of my jeans don't, but these definitely did. But they weren't so snug that they didn't fit at all and my parents and sister thought I looked great in them. Plus, they're only slightly too long without shoes. Yay, I had actually found a pair that were great (by the way, they're the Mackenzie Flare in rinse, now $23.70). They have just enough stretch in them to make them comfortable and not stiff but not so much that I feel like I'm wearing jeggings. I love how flared they are, too--not extreme, like bell-bottoms but definitely more than boot-cuts. The color is amazing too--it's so dark and rich-looking.
I guess the lesson to be learned here is that there's a great pair of jeans out there for everyone, you may just have to step outside your comfort zone and try a new store or new style, whether it be light wash or skinnies or boyfriend fit. Next time I need a new pair of jeans, I will definitely be hitting up Abercrombie Kids...I'm not even ashamed of the kids label!

Cardigan Crazy!

I have a new obsession--with cardigans. I just love how versatile they are (you can wear them over or under anything) and their simple but cute look. Here are a few of my favorite cardis!

Hollister: One of the best places for cardigans this season. They always have a great selection, with tons of colors and styles to fit everyone's tastes. I like Tamarack ($44.50) in navy--the bright floral pattern is so cheery. Southside ($39.50) is another great option if you like stripes and a longer, no closure style (my color pick is pink or burgundy). I also love Wheeler Springs ($39.50) in dark pink--it's such a rich color and the ruffle embellishments add a nice touch.

Aerie: This American Eagle brand may be well-known for its comfy pjs, bras and panties and fitness gear but it has a good selection of clothing, too. I really like the Fair Isle Cardi ($69.50)--I've wanted to get in on the Fair Isle trend for a while and this is just the perfect piece for cold winter days. The Open Cardi ($39.50) is more lightweight but still soft and durable--a great layering piece under jackets. The Aerie Cardigan ($59.50) has a loose knit texture but plenty of warmth. My only issue with the Aerie cardigans is that they don't come in many colors other than the basics (grey, brown, black, white).

Abercrombie & Fitch: A&F also has great cardis, though theirs are definitely pricier. Elaine ($68) is super-cute with its tonal ruffle details--best in burgundy, pink and dark heather grey. Marisa ($68) is unique, with its no closure style and built-in hood. I wish it came in more colors. Bella ($58) is another cute style--the bow embellishment on the pockets is adorable.

What's your favorite cardigan?

You Can Layer!

Try some of these outfits this fall!

Thanks to People StyleWatch's October 2010 issue, here are some useful tips on the best ways to layer your clothes!

1. Pair dressy with casual--You don't have to save the sparkles for nighttime as long as you wear them with simple jeans and a basic blazer. At American Eagle, try the AE Embellished Sweater ($39.95) with the AE Boyfriend Blazer ($59.95) and the Medium Antique Skinny Jean ($39.50) with a simple pair of flats to let the sweater stand out.
2. Mix textures--Don't be afraid to mix and match but try to pair chunkier knits with thin ones so you don't look bulky. At Hollister, try the Tecolote Canyon button sweater (Epic Only, $59.50) with the Bluebird Beach long-sleeve layer ($14.89) and the North Jetty lace tank ($24.50) for a nice, cozy look. Try it with dark-wash straight jeans and some grey winter boots.
3. Show off your waist--With a long, loose cardi, your shape can easily get lost! Don't look like a guy...define your waist with a belt and the whole outfit will look even more pulled together.
4. Play with proportion--Bored of the same layers? Mix it up by layering a cropped jacket over a baby doll tank or a long and lean sweater with a cute pair of leggings and some booties. At Abercrombie & Fitch, try the Valerie cardigan ($58) over the Lucy tank ($34) and the Perfect Butt Jersey Leggings ($20) and some grey booties.

This fall and winter, you can stay warm in style because you know how to layer!

Tearin' it Up!

I have an obsession with destroyed denim. Out of all the denim items in my closet right now, I'd say probably only 3 of them are not destructed in some way. But destruction really does add visual appeal to jeans, skirts and crops, as long as you steer clear of super-destroyed versions--those are totally 'out'.

JEANS: American Eagle has one of the best selections of jeans, hands-down. With 8 different styles in many shades, it's easy to find the pair that's best for you. And if you're looking for destructed denim, it's also a great place to look. Try the Super Dark Destroyed Jegging ($49.50) or the Grey Destroyed Skinny Jean ($49.50) if you prefer a tighter fit. The Dark Antique Artist Jean ($49.50) is perfect for flare-lovers and has only a few small tears so they don't look trashy. Hollister also has some great jeans, like the Destroyed Medium Wash Laguna Skinny ($59.50) but just know that you'll be paying at least $10 more for a destructed pair there.

SKIRTS: Hollister still has a wide variety of denim skirts that are all on clearance now because of the new season, so it's a perfect time to stock up. You can wear them now when it's warm and later over tights or leggings to keep you cozy. I own the Promenade Park mini ($12.45) and I love it! The destruction looks hand-done and the dark chambray lining adds to the unfinished look. For those of you who prefer a less torn-up look, try the San Elijo mini ($12.45) which features a dark rich wash and an unfinished hemline.

SHORTS: For many people, it's already too chilly to wear shorts. Where I am, it normally would be but we'

re experiencing a heat/dry wave so it's been very hot lately and I can still wear my summer stuff. Which is why I'm so glad I bought the AE Boyfit Destroyed Denim Shorts (only available in Light Destroy Wash, $39.50). Mine are super-dark, which I love, and also have some great rips and tears so I can wear them with a girly top and not feel too fancy. Gilly Hicks also has some great shorts, like the Oxford Street shorts ($15.89) which have a cut-off look and the Linley Point shorts ($15.89) that come in a unique light grey wash and have cute cuffed hems.

Do you like destroyed denim? Or do you think it looks trashy?

Make Your Wardrobe Shine!

Two simple outfits that make you look amazing!

You don't need a big budget or piles of clothes to have a great, versatile wardrobe...all you need are a few tips and tricks to make it amazing!

1. Ballet flats look best with skinnies. Skip the wide-leg trousers and even flare jeans with these shoes. Look for skinny jeans that flatter your figure (darker is better) and don't bunch up at the ankle for a clean look.
2. Leather+leather=hot mess. And I don't mean this in a good way. Don't wear two leather pieces together--it's too much. A sleek leather jacket is great with a simple pair of boot-cut or skinny jeans and a cute graphic tee...even a girly dress looks chic. Leather minis are perfect paired with a tailored blazer.
3. If your skipping the pants, make sure your shirt is long. No one wants to see all that when you're rocking leggings. So stick with long, loose layers like a knit vest or cardigan. Tucking the leggings into boots in the same color will streamline your look even more.
4. Don't go too small when it comes to work attire. If you want to wear a nice, knee-length dress to work, go for it. But if you get cold, don't pair it with a tiny, cropped cardigan. It just takes away all the polish from your dress. Instead, wear a slightly longer sweater and belt it for a feminine shape.
5. Full and loose are not a match made in heaven. If you like your skirts full and billowy, that's fine, but don't wear a loose top or you'll look bigger than you are. A simple fitted top paired with a classy printed skirt is great for casual or formal events. Don't forget the shoes--heels in a bright color will make you the star of the show!

There you have it, just a few tips to spruce up your wardrobe. Even if you can't afford the newest booties or that great pair of designer jeans, you can still stand out and look polished every day.

Counting Down the Top 10 Fall Must-Haves

Thanks to TLC and their wonderful fashion makeover show "What Not To Wear" (if your a fashion-fan and you've never see the show, you must watch it!), today's post is a list of the top 10 fall accessories this year.

1. FUR--If you paid any attention to the fashion shows recently, you'll already be ahead on this one. Fur is back and bigger than ever. Of course, if you're opposed to animal cruelty or just don't want to empty your wallet for one fur-trimmed piece, you can go faux. This year, you'll see it everywhere from handbags to boots and even jewelry. (pssst...skins are in too--anything from croc to mock).
2. PEARLS--You either love 'em or you hate 'em. I personally love them, maybe because I'm such a girly-girl but I think they add a touch of elegance to even the simplest outfit. To modernize your strands, look for styles that include edgy chains and have multiple layers. Different colors are great, too. 
3. 60's WEAR--The popularity of the Mad Men series is only increasing, so if you're into the full-skirt and fitted shirt look, don't forget to accessorize them with elegant clutches, kitten heels and elbow-length gloves.
4.  BROWN LEATHER BELT--Sounds simple enough, right? This year, skip the cinched high-waisted versions for ones that drape loosely around your waist. Embellishments are still in, but look for more simple styles, like the classic woven belt. It'll look great over anything, but especially flowy, boho-type tops.
5. LEOPARD PRINT--Again with the animal obsession this year! With this trend, a little goes a long way, so it's best to wear your leopard as a handbag or maybe a pair of chic booties.
6. CROSS-BODY BAGS--One good thing about these purses: they're easier to carry around than, say, a giant Coach handbag. But if you still need space for all your goods, invest in a larger messenger-style bag. Your back will thank you.
7. KNEE-HIGH SOCKS--If you haven't noticed in some of my recent posts, I've been getting really interested in knee-high socks. I'm still a little apprehensive about wearing them, but on the plus side, they look great with just about anything.
8. LOAFERS--These are just one type of shoe to pair with the above socks. Skip the dorky styles your mom used to wear in middle school and try something new...like maybe a studded platform loafer?
9. CAMEL--This is a great alternative neutral when you tire of black. Of course, it's a great color on the classic trench, but why not take the trend further by wearing the caramelly shade on shoes, handbags, scarves and even pants.
10. LACE-UP BOOTS--Aaah, yes, it's almost boot season again but this time, look for ones that lace up. They don't have to look like those scuffed-up black military boots that "tough" girls wear. Try low-heeled, fur-lined or pointy-toed varieties.

There you have it--the top 10 accessories this season. Don't be afraid to try something new and branch out with one of these trends...or all of them! 

Summer into Fall

For me, this is one of the saddest times of the year--when summer becomes fall. I love fall and everything, but there's just something so magical about summer. I love the long, warm days with nothing to do, family vacations, grilling in the backyard, the 4th of July, my birthday...it's such a great season. And I love all the bright summery fashion, as well, so it's sad to say goodbye to all that for a year. One thing keeping me from dreading fall is all the great new autumn clothes my favorite stores have to offer. Check out my picks

Sweaters: I like the versatility of a simple cardigan. My favorite way to wear them is over a tank top and with a full floral mini. The AE Cardigan ($34.95) from American Eagle is on such simple cardigan that I could see myself wearing with anything. I like it in Raspberry Bubble and Aubergine. I also love Hollister's Wipeout Beach pullover sweater ($59.50). It's Epic Only, so I'd have to order it online, but I love the red version's cute seagull-and-heart graphic. I'm not usually one for stripes, but I like A&F's Vanessa button-down in pink stripe ($48). I'm in love with all things pink, and the stripes add a nautical touch.

Bottoms: This includes jeans, pants and even skirts. First up, I love the AE Military Skirt ($34.50). The military trend is so in right now and I've yet to own anything this style, so this would be a good starter piece. I'm not usually one to wear sweatpants, but I really like the styles they have this season at Hollister, especially the Awesome Butt Boot in dark grey or pink ($39.50). It looks great with a thin long-sleeve graphic tee or even a bright basic tank. And call me crazy, but I'm actually considering buying jeans from Abercrombie Kids! I've recently had problems finding jeans that aren't too long for me and since I'm practically child-sized, they might actually work for me. I like the Mackenzie flare in rinse ($39.50) or the Haley boot in destroyed dark wash ($59.50). Another plus with kid's jeans, even from Abercrombie, is that they're much cheaper!


Shoes: Last weekend, when I tried on the Grosgrain Ribbon Moc ($29.95) at American Eagle, I fell in love. I unfortunately didn't buy it because they didn't have the half-sizes in the store and I needed to go down to a size 5 1/2 for them to fit snugly. But I love the dark tan color, it's so pretty. I know flip-flop season is almost over, but I like to push it as much as possible. I like Hollister's Epic Flip Flops in red ($24.50). Another Epic Only item I may never buy, but it doesn't hurt to dream! I also still love the full-priced real leather sandals at A&F, especially the one with the metallic ribbon ($58). They're cute and don't scream summer, either.
So there you have it, just a few of my favorite pieces for the upcoming season. What are your fall must-haves?


P.S. I've discovered the magic of Polyvore to actually show the clothes I'm talking about. Genius!

Shopping Adventures!

This weekend, I got to spend some time away from my dorm and I came home. I was glad I got to spend some time with my family, and today my mom, sister and I went to the mall for a mini shopping spree.
I was way overdue for some jeans (before today, I only had 2 pairs!) and my trip to another mall on Friday wasn't so successful. I was shocked to find that most jean styles, even flares and boot cuts, are cut more like jeggings, so they're super-tight. But luckily, I went out on a limb, tried on some Levi's from Dillard's and I love 'em. They're a skinny jean style, which I never really liked before but these are great.
Next we went to American Eagle, where I found another pair of skinnies that I liked, but I didn't really want to spend a lot of my money on them, so I passed and instead got the AE Boy Fit Crop Jean in dark vintage indigo ($19.95). I also had to take advantage of their buy one get one 50% off jewelry, and I got my first set of bangles and a blingy leather bracelet.
Finally, we hit up Hollister, my favorite store. I had been looking at the Point Dume plaid tunic shirt ($39.50) in turquoise and luckily, I was able to find it at the store. I also bought the Point Loma sweatshirt ($29.89) in orange, and I really think it's a great piece to brighten up any wardrobe.
However, during the checkout process, I hit a little snag. My debit card was declined, because I was a few dollars short, but my mom ended up having to pay for the entire purchase because the cashiers didn't know why it was declined! So that was a problem, plus I couldn't get a gray cami that I needed, but all in all, it was a good day (going to Starbucks afterward didn't hurt either :D).
What's your favorite memory of a shopping trip?

Stripes are a Girl's Best Friend

I used to hate stripes. Don't get me wrong, I'm not the type to dis all patterns--I love a good floral, polka dot or abstract. Stripes just never used to appeal to me, I guess, because they seemed too "sporty" for this girly-girl. Well, not anymore! I love some of the striped offerings at my favorite stores and wanted to share my finds with you.
I love the AE Rugby Stripe Poncho ($44.50)--period. It comes in three great shades (my favorite is raspberry heather) and has a collegiate appeal. I would wear it over dark wash skinny jeans (AE Skinny Jean in bright indigo, $39.95) with silver ballet flats (AE Ballet Flat in light pewter, $29.50) and maybe the AE Bomber Jacket in grey ($69.50) over it.
I also love Hollister's Santa Margarita dress in pink stripe ($20.93). The color is perfect for me, since it sweetens the basic stripes. It would look amazing under the Mission Beach denim jacket ($59.50--I love the sparkly floral brooch!), and paired with a simple leather belt (woven Vintage Beach Belt, $29.50) and embellished flip-flops (Vintage Flip Flops in pink, $12.89--the bow detailing is so adorable).
At Abercrombie, I really like the Victoria sweater ($58). I like its simple design, thin cherry-red stripes and rosette applique. I would totally layer it over the Kendall tank in red ($17.89) and wear it with destructed light-wash crop jeans (Jody Crop Destroyed, $48).
Remember: stripes aren't just for referees or little kids anymore--you can make stripes work with your style!

                                                                                

Inspired by Nature

When I was little, my family was really big on camping. We always had a pop-up trailer, so not really hard-core or anything, but we still were able to get in touch with nature, and our wilder sides. My parents always dragged my little sister and me on hiking trails and as much as I dreaded it then, I miss it so much now, being stuck in the dorms, 300 miles from my family. Me and my sister always bonded over riding our bikes through the campground, building shelters in the woods, making up little plays at the campground's amphitheatre and even having my dad swing us around on the tire swing at the playground.

I've been missing camping and the outdoors a lot (sure, I walk every day to classes, but it's more suburban) so I decided to do a post about outdoor-inspired fashion.

I love anything plaid, from tops to skirts and even scarves. I also really like the boyfriend style, which is basically anything that's kinda long and loose, like a guy would wear, but much cuter. So I had to include the AE Plaid Western Boyfriend Shirt ($39.50). I love it in pink, and it would look amazing over a pair of long black leggings and tucked into some rugged boots, such as the AE Lace-Up Moto boots.
I'm a sucker for anything destructed, so I love Gilly Hicks's Narrabeen denim shorts ($19.89). The rips, tears and cuffs add to its tough appeal, and would look great with a girly tee, such as Mort Bay ($15.50) in white.
Dresses aren't usually thought of as outdoorsy, but this one definitely is--the Hollister Santa Margarita dress ($39.50) in blue plaid. It has a look that's part lumberjack, part adorable. I would totally pair it with a little denim jacket, such as Lake Hodges ($89.50). The collar and inside are lined with faux sherpa, so it looks authentically-rough.

And of course, no nature-inspired closet can be complete without a puffy vest! They're back and better than ever, especially from Abercrombie & Fitch. Try their Addison vest ($98)--it comes in a variety of bright colors and goes well with a simple striped thermal, such as the Alyssa knit shirt ($34) and a great pair of jeans, like the Emma boot ($53.70) in destroyed dark wash.

How do you mix style with the great outdoors? (P.S. The pictures above are some camping memories I have--one is as a baby and the other is when I was probably 10 or 11 with my little sister!)

4 More Fall Trends to Try

If you haven't checked out my previous post about fall trends, then check it out (7 Fall Trends to Try) and see what's new for the upcoming fashion season. Here are four more trends to try!

1. Rich Tones--It's all about pretty jewel tones this autumn! Try shades of burgundy to emerald to royal purple and see what works best for you. Check out the AE Gemstone Ring (a beautifully simple sapphire stone set in a silver ring--$15.50), Abercrombie's Maura knit shorts (the burgundy color is so polished--$19.89) and Gilly Hicks' Beecroft tee (the red is such a standout ruby shade--$9.89).

2. Refined Bags--Get a bag that has great detailing, from luxe-looking closures to custom hardware. A&F has the bags you desire, from the Parker handbag (it comes in four versatile colors and has a useful, yet stylish front pocket--$320) to the Lila tote (it's cinched top allows for easy access--$340) to the Grady foldover clutch (it's studding detail looks edgy for a night out--$220).

3. Feminine Shapes--Don't settle for pieces that are shapeless! Show off your curves (or create some) in a dress, top or skirt that has a defined waist, such as Hollister's New Jetty knit sweater (the stripes draw attention too your shape and the built-in belt carves a waistline--$27.93), the AE Denim Studded Bustier Dress (the gathered waist and corset-like fit are great for curvless girls, as well as curvier ones--$29.50) and A&F's Josey skirt (the plaid pattern is flirty and the contrast waistband calls attention to your waist--$50).

4. Lace--It has a sexy, rock-n-roll girl vibe yet it's still ladylike. Abercrombie's Charissa skirt is one good option (the stripes add appeal, and the eyelet hem is adorable--$50), as well as HCo.'s Manhattan Beach tank top (the lace trim at the neckline is subtle but sexy--$24.50) and GH's Britt sleep dress (it's floral lace design is unexpected and fun for bedtime--$29.50).

This fall, get in on the latest trends!

Pajama Party!

Looking for the perfect pjs that will get you noticed at the next sleepover or in your dorm? Then look no further than Gilly Hicks!
For cooler nights, try The Basin pajama pants ($29.50). They come in several patterns, from navy floral to navy Cedric logo (GH's adorable koala logo) and the drawstring waist will help keep them up.
During the super-hot "dog days" of summer, wear the St. Ives sleep shorts ($15.50). The ruffly trim and cute patterns will make you stand out.
For something a little out of the ordinary, check out the Britt dress ($29.50). It's flirty floral lace is adorable, and the material is lightweight enough for sweltering nights.
To stay cozy and covered up, get the Broken Bay robe ($49.50). I like how the style is very collegiate, but it's simple and cute.
Instead of settling for oversize sleep shirts and gym shorts, why not look pretty while you sleep?

Lusting for Leather

Since I don't have a job (outside of odd chores around the house), I don't usually have much money on hand. Of course, that doesn't stop me from checking out my favorite clothing sites on a daily basis (ae.com, abercrombie.com, gillyhicks.com and hollisterco.com) just to drool over all the adorable clothes.
Lately, I've discovered one piece at Hollister that I know I just gotta have! It's the La Jolla leather jacket for $99.50. Okay, okay, I admit it's faux leather, but it's the best I can get on my budget, plus it's super cute. Hollister's authentic leather jacket costs $200 more, and in my opinion, doesn't look as chic.
The La Jolla jacket is a deep brown color, with a high mock neck collar and a ribbed hem detail. The best part is, it would look great with almost anything. Try it with a dress, such as the Santa Margarita dress ($39.50) in pink stripe, or the strapless Santa Margarita dress ($39.50) in olive floral.
It would also be perfect with a cardigan, like the Moonlight Beach sweater ($44.50) in navy, paired with the Embarcadero tank ($17.50), the Vintage Beach woven belt ($29.50) and the Tamarack cuffed denim shorts ($19.89).
There are so many possibilities that I can't wait to get mine and try it with everything!

Epic Only Bargains!

Even if you can't make it to The Big Apple anytime soon, you can still check out Hollister's "Epic Only" collection online...and score some great deals!
I love the La Mesa sweater ($24.90). I was actually considering buying it soon when I go to return another sweater that didn't fit in with the rest of my wardrobe. It has a classic deep v-neck, cute braided cinch ties with beading and loose short sleeves. It's perfect for fall, and super-cheap!
Or try the Trestles Beach dress ($18.90). The top is a simple tank style, with a strap bow detail, and the skirt has a bright red plaid pattern. Get it while it lasts!
For an uber-adorable hoodie, get the Belleflower zip-up ($39.50). The red color is very vibrant, and the gray version goes with anything.
The best 'flops'? Check out the Vintage Flip Flops ($39.50) with dot print bow embellishment. It's basic enough to go with skirts or jeans, but still looks stylish.
This fall, mix up with wardrobe with some really Epic pieces!

Shorts...in the Fall?!

And you thought you'd have to stash your favorite pair of shorts when the calendar changed to September, right? But as long as it's not snowing, or 30 below, you can still wear shorts through the fall, with a few minor tweaks.
One great way to stretch the wear-time of your fave pair is to wear them with a sweatshirt. Try the Maura shorts ($19.89) from Abercrombie & Fitch with the Cass pullover hoodie ($39.89), or the Rebecca hoodless pullover ($39.89). Both sweatshirts come in a wide variety of colors that you can mix and match with the basic colors of the shorts for a nice, classic, college-like look.
For a more laid-back approach, check out Hollister's San Clemente athletic shorts ($19.50), paired with a brightly colored graphic tee, such as the Surfers Knoll t-shirt ($19.50), which is available in 6 neon colors.
For a cute, casual date look, go for some dark wash boy fit shorts, such as the AE Boy Fit Dark Denim Shorts ($34.95). The subtle destruction looks like you didn't try too hard, but the elegant dark wash makes you look nice enough for dinner out. Try 'em with the AE Classic Blazer ($59.50) and the AE Lace Embroidered Tank ($24.50) for a very put-together feel, or with the AE Plaid Favorite Shirt ($39.50) for a cool vibe.
No matter which way you choose to wear them, shorts are a great, unexpected piece for fall.