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.

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!

Springy, Swingy Skirts

Wanna know about a spring trend before anyone else does? The answer is...spring-like skirts.
They're popping up everywhere, from Hollister to American Eagle. They come in florals, solids and other patterns. And they're one step ahead of the summery miniskirt, because they have a longer knee-length fit.
These breezy skirts are perfect for a spring picnic, shopping with the girls and even a cute fashion statement at school. They look great with solid or graphic tees (for a more casual look) and blouses or tanks (for a dressier style).
Check out AE's Ditzy Floral Skirt in blue or chalk ($34.50) for a sweet daytime look. Or Hollister's Swami's Beach ($49.50) for school. And AE's Nautical Skirt looks nice enough to wear to work and on a date.