Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #61

LOTD

Hi All! After a busy week, I am looking forward to relaxing a bit. I am kicking off this weekend early with this fun summer number.  Finally, a summer fun outfit. I’m so excited to share this cute, yet stylish romper with you today.

I’m not going to lie, I am a short girl (5’3”) so I don’t get the opportunity to wear long dresses, maxi skirts, or maxi dresses a whole lot, I make up for it in rompers. I will never pass up an opportunity for a fun one-piece outfit. I do wear them to dress up in addition to dressing down a bit. Last year, this has been my go-to romper for dressing up but, this summer I was on the look for a romper to dress down a bit.

An outfit perfect for any occasion

I got this romper from Old Navy. It came in a few solid colors and patterns. I chose to get this black and white patterned romper. It’s a short set that buttons in the front. I like how I can juts put on one piece of clothing if I am in a rush or want to change up my outfit. I have worn sandals, gladiator sandals and a pair of dressy sneakers.

A close up look at the romper

I decided to wear these monogrammed sandals from MarleyLilly with my outfit. I am really into monogramming-from scarves, shoes, clipboards, and clothes. These shoes make a simple statement and then can go with any outfit. I have worn these sandals with shorts, skirts, sundresses, and now rompers, they are a perfect accessory for the summer season

Monogrammed sandals

This has been one of my favorite new pieces of clothing that I have got this summer season! What new outfit did you buy this summer that you have been loving!?

Categories
Fabulous living

Making Time for Friends in the Summer

Summer can be a very busy time, between work, getting enough sleep, and getting used to a new routine, it can be hard to see those close to you.

I am very fortunate that I live at home in the summer. I love spending time and doing things with my family. We always try to eat dinner together every night, and we spend our weekends and weeknights doing things together. I love spending time with my family.

However, I often find myself not spending a lot of time with my friends. I live about two hours from most of my friends from college, so I don’t often see them, luckily, I am still close to a few friends from high school who I try to see frequently. Most of the times our work schedules don’t line up, we have other commitments going on or we live far apart. I have been very good about trying to see friends in the summer, which I am proud of. Here are a few things I’ve learned about making time to see your friends in the summer.

  • Don’t just say it, Do It!

When school is winding down, you may catch yourself saying, “we have to see each other this summer!”, but does it happen? We often get caught up in our busy lives that we forget about others. If you truly want to see someone, make it happen. Due to my friends from college living so far away, I know I’m not going to see all of them, but maybe I can try seeing one or two.  A few weeks ago, I was in need of some girl time with one of my close friends from college, Olivia. We both found a day we were free and met up to get lunch and go shopping. Rather than me driving two hours to her or vice versa. We met halfway for both of us. It worked out perfectly. We got to visit, grab lunch, scored some sales, but most importantly, just catch up. I’m so glad we did something rather than just saying we were and not follow through.

Much needed retail therapy
  • A few hours is better than nothing

I have a few close friends from high school who I try to see often in the summer and on breaks. However, we all work different times and schedules, so it can be hard for all of us to get together for a long time. We find it works best for us to just grab dinner, ice cream or brunch for a few hours rather than try to find a full day to spend together. We try to also get together for big events. For example, my family and I throw a fourth July party and my close friends are always invited. It’s a great time to see each other and celebrate.

Fourth of July spent with my favorites
  • Be Spontaneous

Yes, it’s great to plan ahead when you are seeing someone from out of town, but also be spontaneous with your outings. My close friend and I both work downtown in the summer. We both had the same lunch break and met up for lunch downtown. It was unexpected and yet, so fun. My other friend was free for dinner so him and I just went to grab something quick. Even if you can’t get your whole group of friends together, it is good just to catch up with one rather than none.

Grabbing lunch with my girl downtown
Grabbing dinner with my high school bud

I think most college students can relate to not seeing their friends or family as much as they want in the summer. What do you struggle with? Spending more time at home with family or out with friends? Let’s Discuss!!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #60

LOTD

Happy Thursday!

I promise I have some fun in the sun outfits coming up soon, but for now another formal, business casual look is up for today. This is just a peak into my summer…high hopes for fun in the sun but in reality, a lot of work. Although, I have no complaints, I actually enjoy getting dressed up for work and mixing and matching outfits. I love to put together outfits that I already have in my wardrobe.

Today’s look is no different, I had this dress for several years now, but this look was one of the first few times I paired it with these accessories. Let’s get started.

Amazing how you can transform a white dress

I got this white eyelet dress from Old Navy about five or six years ago-yes, I have had it for a while and it still is a great summer dress. Also, I always rave about Old Navy’s clothes and this is just another testament to their good quality when it comes to how their clothes are made. I have worn this dress to Sunday Mass, graduations, summer parties, and to work. A very versatile dress, if I do say so myself.

An up close look at the details.

Due to this dress being simple and white, I knew I had to spruce it up with some color. That’s where this blue cardigan and orange necklace came in. I chose the blue crop sweater (also from Old Navy) because I wanted to break up with white and I knew it would be a bit chilly. The blue laid perfectly on white dress and I really loved the preppy look it gave off.

 

Dress, cardigan, and necklace

I chose the orange necklace as a bold statement piece against the white and it did not disappoint. I loved the unique style and I think it truly tied the outfit together with the blue and white. i too, got this necklace from Old Navy.

An alternate look-just the necklace and dress

Lastly, I wore a pair of my favorite nude wedges to cap off the outfit. I got them from DSW a few years back and they have held up strong. You can’t go wrong with a nude shoe!

Overall, I was very happy with how this outfit turned out. When I chose this outfit, I just had the dress in mind and I was so glad I had the accessories around. This outfit came from my closet and costed $0!!

Where are your go-to’s for summer fashion!?

Let’s meet back here same time, same place! Have a great weekend!

Categories
Fabulous living Travel

TBB Asks: Summer Vacations

Hello! Hello! A new week, a new day.

I can’t believe we are almost halfway through summer! The months are flying by!! I love finding questionnaires from other bloggers and I love to answer them myself. Today I will be answering questions about summer vacations! I don’t know about you, but through the year I am always finding myself dreaming of vacationing but during the summer it can be hard to find the time to plan it.  I’m hoping by answering these questions, I will be able to focus more on planning a summer trip before summer is over! Now, onto the questions thanks to The Blended Blog!!

Great questions

-Will you go on a summer vacation this year?

Yes, hoping to get away for a few days at the end of July or early August. It can be hard to plan a trip when you are coordinating six different schedules!

– Do nothing or a pack it all in vacation?

Pack it all in. Yes, we like to relax but if we are going somewhere new or a place where there is lots of attractions we love to pack it in. Plus, you can relax when you are home, when you are away it’s always good to make it worth your while.

-What month do you like to vacation?

Any summer month, we typically go in July though. August can get busy with back to school stuff and June is just the start of summer. July typically works best for us.

In D.C. for a trip

-Cruise: Yes or No?

No! I prefer land and just being away at sea for several days makes me anxious. I do like boating but not for more than a few hours. Haha!

-Favorite vacation tradition?

Getting up early to leave for a trip. Whether it be by car or plane, I love the excitement about getting up in the middle of the night to leave.

-Most memorable vacation?

There are so many to choose from!! I loved going to Disney for the first time, New York City is always fun especially around Christmas time. Our favorite family vacation spot is Hershey, PA so we try to make a trip out of every year.

We headed to Florida one year for spring break

-Hotel, Condo, or House?

Hotels typically work best for our family. It’s nice to use all the amenities the hotels have to offer. We have stayed in condos before, but hotels are our preference.

-Favorite thing to eat on vacation?

Anything that is special or unique to the area. I will always spoil myself with sweet treats on vacation too!

I love heading to New York City especially during Christmas time

-Warm or Cold Destinations?

Depends on the place. I do like warmer climates,  but I would rather choose the place rather than the weather.

Well, there are my answers. Now, it’s your turn! Pick a few questions and answer them in the comments below! Hopefully we can all get around to planning our vacations soon enough!

My favorite place to travel- Hershey
Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #59

LOTD

Hello friends!! Happy belated Fourth of July! I was not a fan of having the Fourth of July in the middle of a week. I was working on Tuesday and now I am back to work today, so between work and the holiday it is a very busy week. The Fourth was a very fun holiday. I was able to see family, friends, eat good food, and relax. Even though, it has been a packed full week, I’m very happy with how it has turned out.

Since, it is back to work today, I’m sharing another one of my business casual outfits. I have worn this outfit this past week at work, and it was perfect for on the go. Not only is it stylish but it is comfortable and professional looking. Let’s get started.

Pretty in pink for work

Last week I raved about these pants and I am wearing them again with a much different outfit. These pink dress pants are from GAP, I love the color, but they also come in blue, black, and khaki. A color for every need you may have. I like how they look more like a dress pant and not a jean or tight like a pair of leggings.

I matched my pink pants with this pink, black, and white dress blouse. I got this blouse from Marshalls on sale!! My favorite store plus a sale-what more could you ask for!? I love how it goes with the pink pants. I have also worn this top with a pair of white capris to bring out the white more in the top.

Lastly, I paired a simple pair of black flats with this outfit to top off the outfit. I got mine from Old Navy and absolutely adore them! As much as I love my wedges or heels, I wear flats at work since I go to different places every day and I am constantly on the go-not the ideal place for heels.

Always good to have a sweater with you

In case you get cold easily like me, I always throw a cardigan or light sweater to wear. I brought a white short sweater to wear in case I got chilly. It’s always good to be prepared at work or on the job.

I hope you all had a wonderful and fun day with your families and friends celebrating the Fourth of July. Have a great weekend ahead. See you on Tuesday!!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Picnic and Party Prep

Hello and Happy Tuesday! Tomorrow is the Fourth of July. It’s crazy that we are already in July! Is it just me or is summer flying by?!

One of my favorite things to do in the summer is entertain! I love having friends, family, and relatives over for a barbecue, swim or just to catch up. We always like to celebrate the Fourth of July with a big party with family and friends. I have learned a lot about hosting and entertaining from my parents especially my mom, these are things that I will use when I have my own place one day. Here are a few things I have learned about prepping and hosting summer dinners.

-Plan ahead

It may seem daunting to plan a picnic or dinner party. But don’t get overwhelmed. Plan what things you need to get done and how long it will take you, this comes in handy for time managing. Also, no matter the size of your party-lists is your best friend. Make lists for food you need, decorations, guests,  or any paper products you have to get. It’s also smart to have a menu in mind for your food. Keep in mind to use what you have. If you already have food at home use that before buying more food. Be sure to take inventory before you go shopping. With that in mind, keep your eyes open for things on sale. Maybe you don’t have a picnic coming up but if paper plates are on sale, pick up a stack for later,

-Have others help

If you are hosting a big barbecue with lots of families and friends, don’t be afraid to accept their offers of help. If someone asks if they can bring something-say yes.  They will feel good that they are doing their part to help. There can never be too many appetizers or desserts. This also makes your guests feel appreciated for helping out and it allows you to try new recipes. Who doesn’t like to try new things?! Making a list will also come in handy when keeping track of who’s bringing what.

-Enjoy yourself

After all the hard work is done be sure to enjoy yourself. Don’t worry about cleaning up while your guests are still eating or talking. Be present and enjoy the company. If something doesn’t turn out the way you planned, don’t sweat it the only person who will notice is you. You have worked hard for your party so enjoy yourself with your guests.

I have loved to help my parents through the years to help plan and put on parties and get-togethers. What tips or advice do you have for when it comes to putting on and celebrating the holidays?! I would love to hear anything you have to offer! Have a safe and memorable Fourth of July! God Bless America!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #58

LOTD

Hello Friends! It’s Thursday, only one more day till the weekend! Woo Hoo!

Earlier in the summer, I mentioned how I would be sharing more professional and business casual outfits for the intern, college student, or new employee. Today, I have a new outfit that is cute, colorful, professional, and affordable. What more could you ask for?!

Ready for a new day at work

Let’s break down this outfit. I got these cute pants from GAP. This year I have really been struggling to find dress pants, so many pants on the market today are skinny, tight and almost look like leggings-not what I am looking for in a dress pant. I found these at GAP and not only did I love the cut, form but the color is too cute to pass up. The rose-colored pink breaks up the neutral colors that I wear to work daily. I have a few other print and neutral tops for work that I often wear with white or blue pants, so these pink pants will break up the colors. I’m positive you will be seeing these pants more this summer.

I got my blouse from Francesca’s Boutique. I love the sleeves. The blue and pink go so well together. I like how you can wear this top with a blazer or sweater or by itself. Because it is a solid top, I knew I had to dress it up with some jewelry.

I like the simplicity of this necklace but at the same time it adds dimension and character to this outfit. Silver is also a great color that can tie outfits together. Another reason why I chose to add it to my outfit.  I decided to wear a simple pair of blue drop earrings to finish off my jewelry.

As much as I love heels, it’s not always smart to wear them at the workplace where you could be running errands and on your feet all day. These simple, black, pointed toe ballet flats from GAP are perfect for the office setting. They are professional but also comfortable.

No matter where you work, you can always spruce up your wardrobe while not breaking the bank. Just remember not to go overboard as you are still in the workplace and are representing the place you work.

Have a great weekend!

Categories
Fabulous living

Internships Do’s and Don’ts

With June almost through, something most college student’s like myself have on their minds are internships. Whether they are in the process of completing them in the summer months or applying for them for the fall, internships are something every college student must endure.

Internships are not all that bad, they give students great experience for a career they may be considering, provide networking opportunities for college students, and may even lead to a job one day.

Off to a new day at work.

This summer I am completing my second internship and I am loving it. I am getting a lot of experience and learning things every day about a profession I am seriously considering. Last summer, I also completed an internship where I learned a lot as well. For both internships, I received college credit and they were nonpaid. Most internships only accept college credit and are nonpaid. If you have the opportunity to get a paid internship that’s an added bonus-and you should accept it. Each internship is different in their own way.

I have complied a list of do’s and don’ts when it has come to internships. If you have worked or are currently working at an internship, please leave in the comments below any things you may add.

DO

-Show up on time (whether it is your first or last day be sure to arrive on time or a few minutes early to start the day.  Arriving early is always the start to a good impression)

-Dress Professional (When applying or interviewing for internships be sure to ask what the appropriate attire is so you can plan ahead. As well as being professional, make sure you are comfortable. As cute as heels are they are not good for being on your feet 8 hours a day-ballet flats all the way.)

-Ask questions and take notes (Don’t be afraid to speak up or ask questions, you won’t learn things unless you ask. It can be intimidating the first few days and you will get a lot of information thrown at you, be sure to take notes and write everything down to make sure you keep everything in order.)

DON’T

-Be on your phone (Besides it being unprofessional to be on your phone while working, it takes away from the experience of what you are learning. If you find yourself with free time, try asking if there is anything that needs done or if there is anywhere you can help out.)

-Overstep or overshare (Keep in mind wherever you intern that you are an INTERN, you are not the center of attention- you are there to learn, observe, and help out where needed. You are not there to run the company but rather see how the company is run.)

-Just sit there and wait to be told what to do (Take initiative and see what you can do to help to do your part. Be a leader and show you are a go-getter and want to work hard. This will stand out to employers.)

 

These are just a few things I’ve learned by completing two internships as well as asking employers as well as other friends who have interned at a variety of businesses. If you have interned someplace or hire interns what advice would you give to rising interns, leave them in the comments below! Good Luck with your summer jobs and internships.

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #57

LOTD

Happy Thursday!!!

I love June, the sun shines brighter, the flowers smell better, and the children are out for summer. I love summer days, the perfect pair for warm summer weather is a cute outfit. Today, I have the perfect summer sun dress.

One of my favorite summer trends are cotton dresses. I love how lightweight and effortless they look When wearing cotton dresses, you can dress it up or down depending on the occasion. For example, with today’s look, I have worn it to work, to Church, and to a graduation party. The perfect summer dress for any occasion.

Wearing pink and going bold…it truly is the start of summer

Although, pink is not my favorite color, I wear it a lot in summer months. It matches my skin and hair well. I also like how there are several shades of pink and how they can be paired with other neutral colors like black, white, or nude to make more outfits.

Loving the boldness of summer

Focusing on today’s dress, I got it from Old Navy a few years back and I always like to wear it to change up what I wear when I go to work. It’s lightweight and made from soft material- both things that I love about Old Navy’s clothing. I love the bold stripes this pink and white dress provides, it really causes this dress to stand out.

I decided to wear my summer nude wedges with the outfit to dress it up. I wear these wedges a lot in the summer especially when dressing up. Nude shoes, whether they be heels, wedges, or ballet flats are a must when it comes to your wardrobe. I got my wedges from DSW, my go to for all styles of shoes.

I also made the decision to add some fun jewelry to the mix. I got these cute earrings at Charming Charlie’s and I got this necklace from Francesca’s. I love the metal daisies and how they add another dimension to the outfit.

Loving the jewerly and the pop that it adds to the outfit.

That’s a wrap up for today’s outfit. I hope this encourages you to go for a brighter color every once in a while. Have a sun shining weekend!

Categories
Fabulous living

Bingeable TV Shows

Ahhh the carefree days of Summer…no school work, a time for making money for most college students like myself, but most importantly R&R. Between all the working I love to relax and unwind by reading or catching up on my favorite tv shows or binge watching new shows. Here are my top five picks for bingeable tv shows and the service you can find them on.

Everyone loves a good laugh and The Office doesn’t disappoint. From Michael Scott’s antics, the relationship between Jim and Pam, and the days at a Paper Company, the laughs are endless. There are 9 seasons and episodes are less than 30 minutes. A perfect companion to watch while you are relaxing, doing a load of wash, or hanging out with friends. The Office can be found on Netflix.

A classic comedy about working in an office

Whether you have an interest in medicine, relationships, friendships, or navigating a new job, this is the show for you. Watch the epic love story between Meredith and Derek and see what it means to be someone’s person. This drama has 14 seasons under its belt and is still going strong. Episodes range 43 minutes and there are plenty of twists and turns through the series. Grey’s Anatomy can be found on Netflix.

Whether you watch it for the medicine or the relationships, this show is for you,

So many good things about this show, from the relationships, special guest cameos, the many memories in that one apartment, but importantly, the friendships. Whether this the first time you are watching FRIENDS, or you are a super fan and know every line and know exactly what it means when someone says, “WE WERE ON A BREAK”! FRIENDS is the show for you. There are 10 seasons and episodes run for 21 minutes. You can watch this with your friends on Netflix.

Nothing better than watching Friends with friends!?

The New York trends continues but this time we are catching up with our favorite girlfriends. In honor of the 20th anniversary, this show is so iconic, from the fashion, the MANY boyfriends, the trips, but most importantly, the love of girlfriends. There were so many wonderful moments that made this show so special, from Carrie’s column becoming a book, the failed marriage between Charlotte and Trey, Samantha finally falling in love with Smith, Miranda being the first of the four to become a mother, and Mr. Big going all the way to Paris to tell Carrie she is the ONE. The show ran for 6 seasons and episodes are under a half hour. The show that never goes out of style can be found on Amazon Prime.

Who doesn’t love these girlfriends!?

Do you want to be a Gladiator in a Suit? Well, this is the show for you. Scandal follows the interworking of the government, from rigging presidential elections, fixing politicians problems, and affairs in the White House, Scandal keeps you on the edge of your seat until the last second. Each season is even better than the last. While Olivia Pope is taking care of everyone else’s problems, who is taking care of her? Will she stand in the sun with Jake or go to Vermont with Fitz?! The 7 seasons wrapped up this past year and the 40-minute episodes will have you on the edge of a cliff. See what all the hype is about but binge watching this on Netflix.

The Fixer and Boss…Olivia Pope

Whenever summer is dragging, or you just want to curl up and relax try watching one of these shows to change up your routine. What shows are you currently binge watching?! Let me know in the comments below! Happy viewing!