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Fashion

Look of the Day #17

LOTD

Happy Fall!

As we transition from summer to fall, I like to incorporate outfits that can work if it’s cold in the morning and hot in the afternoon or vice versa. This outfit is one of many that is perfect for transitional weather. It can work in the spring and fall or even winter if you layer it the right way.

Starting at the bottom, these are my favorite fall booties. I wear them with jeans, leggings, dresses, and skirts. They are suede, have laces, and have a wedge on the heel. A perfect fall shoe boot. I’m already planning lots of outfits with these shoes so prepare to see them a lot during the fall months.

I decided to wear black leggings with this outfit, however, if you want to dress the look up a bit, black dress pants would go great with it as well. My shoes and leggings are solid, neutral colors which means my top needs to have a bold feel to it. This floral top was perfect to add to my outfit. I got this top from Francesca’s Boutique and I have worn it with jeans, leggings, even a black pencil skirt. I love how versatile it is. It’s lightweight and it is made from satin-like material. Simple jewelry can be used to finish off the ensemble. This look is easy and can be thrown together in minutes.

This outfit would be perfect to wear to class with leggings. It would also be great to wear out to drinks with the girls paired with a pair of jeans. This top could even be worn to a business meeting with a pencil skirt. The possibilities are endless.

Have a wonder-FALL weekend!

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Fun Ways to Organize

How to Organize: Your Backpack

With back to school in full swing, it’s time to take advantage of organizing the things we use every day. Let’s start with the backpacks.

Head back to school in style!

Whether you are a mom with a fifth grader who likes to collect everything under the sun, a freshman in high school trying to navigate the halls, or a sophomore in college who’s just trying to get by, this post is for you.

Our backpacks become a place to throw whatever we want in it. Pencils? In the backpack. Tissues? In the backpack. Dry cereal that you forgot to eat for breakfast? In the backpack. Before we know it, we can’t find anything in the mess we take everywhere with us.

I always like to clean out my backpack and give it a good washing before every school year. I have bought my backpacks in the past from L.L. Bean or Lands’ End and they last a long time. They come in fun designs, are durable, and machine washable!

After it’s finished being cleaned, I put the essentials in, the things that never come out. This can vary for everyone, but for me I always like to have these things accessible always. I always carry…

  • Tic tacs or gum (Fresh breathe always!)
  • Spare change (Always good to have emergency money)
  • Tissues (Fall and colds are right around the corner)
  • A snack (trail mix or something dry to eat in case I’m running around and don’t have time for lunch.)
  • Pencil Case (yes, I still have one even in college-where else am I going to store my pencils, pens, and highlighters)
  • My Planner (A must have for everyone. You can never be too organized)
  • An umbrella (you never want to be caught across campus in a thunderstorm without one)
  • An extra empty folder (I use this if I am collecting papers throughout the day to ensure they don’t get crushed or wrinkled)

I alternate my books and binders depending on the day and the classes I have. If they are not in my back pack they are sitting on my desk. I try to keep things in the same spot, so I can always find them.

I appreciate  a clean backpack so I know where everything is. I don’t like clutter so I keep things in separate pockets to keep them organized.

Now, it’s your turn! What essentials do you keep in your backpack? Or moms, what things can’t your little ones live without? Let me know in the comments below!!

 

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Fashion

Look of the Day #16

LOTD

One last summer look!

It’s time to fire up the grills and put on those swim suits one last time for Labor Day! Whether you are home with family and friends or hitting the books like I am, I hope you all have a wonderful and safe Labor Day.

This outfit is perfect for a picnic by the pool or a cookout with family.  I got this slip-on blue and turquoise dress from Francesca’s Boutique. It’s lightweight and a great summer color. The best part of it? I got it on SALE! You can dress it up with a pair or wedges for a night out on the town or you can dress it down with sandals or flip flops for a summer picnic.

This hat is a perfect accessory to go with it. I got mine from Francesca’s as well but you can find hats similar at many other retail stores. Hats are coming back in style more and more. You can wear a different hat every season and it could still work with any looks.

A perfect summer hat.

It’s a bold accessory that won’t go unnoticed and it will protect you from the sun. What more could you ask for?

Let summer go out in style and celebrate one last time with this look for Labor Day!

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Fun Ways to Organize

Back to School Essentials

The last week of August means its time for back to school, whether it be the smell of new supplies, the feel of new clothes, or the excitement of learning new things…I love it all. I always loved going back to school and this year is no different. I officially started classes yesterday and today, I’m sharing my back to school essentials.

Pinterest quotes just gets me!
  • A planner
    • Whether it’s a big calendar blotter, a small planner you can pop in your backpack or even an app on your phone. A planner is critical for keeping you studies and social life in order. I can’t live without one! Plus the designs are so cute and creative, it might as well be a fashion statement.
  • Fresh supplies
    • You can’t start the new school year or semester off without some new supplies. It’s okay to splurge, get the fun notebook, buy the colorful pens. It will keep you organized and it will make you smile, when you are slaving over homework late at night.
  • A new outfit (or two)
    • Confidence is key for taking on new adventures. One way to boost your confidence is with getting a new outfit or two. Show off you style. Be comfortable with who you are.
  • Goals
    • A new school year means its time to set new goals. What things do you want to accomplish? What do you want to get out of this year. How much effort do you want to put in? It’s all about what you make of it. You have the chance to make this school year great!
  • A positive attitude
    • Each school year brings its own worries and excitements. The best way to embrace it all is with a positive attitude. Tackle any struggles or fears you have with a smile. It will go a long way.

Keep those essentials in mind as you take on a new semester or school year. What things are essential for your school year or your first day of school? I have one last summer look for any Labor Day picnics, then it’s time for fall fashion. See you on Thursday!

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Fashion

Look of the Day #15

LOTD

A great outfit for sightseeing

I shared my travel diary a few weeks ago about my trip to D.C. and Philly. Today I am sharing one of my outfits from the trip. I wore this on Day 2 which consisted of A LOT of walking around and sightseeing. This t-shirt dress was perfect for a day of sightseeing followed by a nice dinner. Let’s get down to the deets about the dress.

I got this black and white t-shirt dress from Marshalls on sale a few years ago. I love getting deals on great outfits. This lightweight, cotton dress worked great for weather in the 80’s. I wore a pair of black and white converse so I was comfortable but still chic! For dinner later in the night I changed into my favorite fuzzy slides. Both shoes worked great with the classic t-shirt dress.

If it is cool evening, a jean jacket would match perfectly with he black and white stripes. If you are looking for a dramatic look a pair of gladiator sandals would work great with the black and white as well. I have worn this dress in the spring with a pair of leggings and high black boots. This dress is a great transitional piece from spring to summer.

Have a great weekend and be back here on Tuesday as we get ready for back to school and fall!

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Fun Ways to Organize

My Summer Recap

I love lists! Lists allow me to organize my thoughts and things that need to get done.

Every summer I create a list of things I want to do. Some things are fun and are spent with family and friends. Other things might be things I hope to accomplish or things that need to get done. At the end of this summer, I am happy to say I got almost everything I wanted to accomplish done! That’s doesn’t always happen. Here’s a peak into my summer and everything I got done.

SUMMER TO DO:

  • Read Five Books (read 7 instead!!) ✅
  • Blog Twice a Week (if you are reading this now then I must have done it) ✅
  • Finish The Office (gotta get my Netflix in-it was my second time watching it and I couldn’t get enough) ✅
  • Finish House of Cards(it took me to long to finish but it was worth it and I can’t wait for next season) ✅
  • See one friend from college (I didn’t see any friends from college but I will be seeing them soon enough once classes start)❌
  • See High school friends (yes I did and loved every second we spent together-friends for life) ✅
  • Spend a Full day at the pool (it may not have happened until the last week of summer but I got it in) ✅
  • Go out got ice cream at night (I ate way to much ice cream this summer but it was worth it) ✅
  • Go to White Turkey and Sara’s (one of my last meals at home this summer was spent here) ✅
  • Go on more walks (my favorite way to relax) ✅
  • Go to the beach more than once ( I made it twice- does that still count?) ✅
  • Take it slow-try not to rush all the time (after a whirlwind of a school year I tried to take it slow and that happened maybe 5% of the time. BUT it happened) ✅
  • See extended family (seeing my cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents truly made my summer. Family over everything) ✅
  • Take advantage of the free things (go to the zoo, beach) (nothing better than taking advantage of activities in your own backyard) ✅
  • Host people for dinner at my house (I love having company over and I was happy I could help entertain this summer) ✅
  • Try something new ( I’m starting a new job this fall so that’s new!!) ✅
  • Physical Therapy (not something particularly fun but it was necessary and it was so helpful) ✅
  • Surgery (again, not so fun but I am so glad to have it behind me) ✅
  • Hit the Gym (I didn’t go as much as I would have liked but I felt so much better when I went) ✅
  • Do decorations for school (part of my new job and they turned out pretty good) ✅
  • Internship (I learned a lot and it helped my career-success!!) ✅
  • Work my summer job (in addition to my internship I’ve been working here for the past 5 years and I love it) ✅
  • Family Vacation (spending time with family and getting away-nothing better in life) ✅

I got a lot accomplished this summer. Some work, some play. And (almost) everything got crossed off. Another summer in the books. Now it’s time to hit the books. Time for school and fall fashion!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #14

A quick outfit for day or night!

LOTD

Today’s outfit it all about transitioning clothes. Whether we like it or not, September is the next month and fall is approaching. I love to buy clothes that can be worn in more than one season.

I picked up this cute jean dress from Marshalls’s a few years ago. It is made from soft material and have pockets which I can’t get enough of. Dresses and pockets go perfectly together. Buttons go up the front of the dress so you don’t have to wear a piece of jewelry if you don’t want to.   I originally thought it would be good for a night out but quickly discovered all the outfits I could make out of this one dress.

For example, today I paired it with a pair of nude wedges for a lunch date. I have worn it in the fall with a pair of brown booties going shopping.

I paired the same jean dress when I went to Europe two years ago.

In the winter I have worn it with leggings and black boots. I love having one dress that I can mix and match shoes and jewelry for different outfits.

This  dress and ones similar to it are also great for traveling. You can wear it all day and you won’t have to change when you get to your destination. It’s a simple dress that you can throw on for a quick dinner.  I’ve worn it out to dinner, to work, shopping and even to class.

Whenever I go shopping  whether it be in store or online I try to find outfits or pieces that can be worn in different ways. This dress is just one example of many. I have also found using this strategy helps me save money by mixing and matching outfits.

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Fashion

A Few of My Favorite Things: Summer Edition

A few of my favorite things:

As summer is winding down here are a few of my favorite summer must haves.
T-shirt Dress
I love a good t-shirt dress
Dress it up with wedges or sandals or dress it down with converse. This dress works for both and it’s perfect for traveling, shopping, or date night. I got this one from Marshalls.
Jean Jacket
A great transitional piece for different seasons
A perfect light jacket to wear on cooler nights by the fire. Also a great transitional piece of clothing from spring to summer or summer to fall. I got mine from Old Navy.
Fuzzy Sandals
Comfort + Cute
A cute and comfortable accessory. I’ve talked about them a lot in the past and I have worn them on numerous occasions. Definitely a favorite in my closet.
Bare Minerals Matte Lip stick
A pop of pink to add to any outfit
An up close view of the color
I love a good lipstick. I started using this Bare Mineral matte lip stick from Ulta Beauty and fell in love with it. It goes on soft and smooth and dries matte. I love the soft pink. It works with any outfit. They have a wide variety of shades but I loved this pink in the summer months.
Bare Minerals Matte Foundation
What I wear every day!
Another Bare Minerals product I use daily. This foundation feels so good on my skin and lasts all day. It’s smooth and has great consistency. I wear a fair share to go with my light skin. I got this from Ulta Beauty as well.
That wraps up my summer favorite things. This is not an advertisement or sponsored by any brands. Just sharing my love for these products!
 Sorry for the shorter post, I’m currently training for my new job which is taking up a lot of time. Not to worry, I will be back in full swing soon!!! xoxo
Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day # 13

LOTD

Summer is quickly coming to an end so I’m trying to wear as many summer outfits as possible.
I’m loving this romper to wear day or night as summer is winding down.

Although I wear sundress or short sets, I’m always down for a romper, it’s quick, easy, fashionable, and a big trend this summer. I got this jean romper from Francesca’s Boutique, a favorite store of mine. One of the many reasons I am rocking this romper is because it’s a simple one piece that can be dressed up or dressed down.

I decided to dress it up with wedges and gold jewelry, however you can wear a pair of sandals or flip flops for a more casual look. You can make the look more dramatic with a pair of gladiator sandals. If you are going for a sporty look, a pair of converse would work as well. If you are wearing it out to dinner, a sweater and clutch can be paired with it as well. There are so many ways to wear this simple outfit, the possibilities are endless.

Enjoy the last few weeks of summer for they are fleeting.

Categories
Fun Ways to Organize

How to Organize: Your Pantry

This summer I tackled a project that was on my to-do list for a while. My pantry. After numerous pinning and watching organizational videos I took it upon myself to clean out and reorganize my pantry. Although it may seem, like a daunting project, it’s not as bad as you think. Let’s get started.

Before

Step 1: Clean it out.
I went through my pantry and completely cleaned it out and gave it a good wash down. This gave me the opportunity to throw out old or expired food and see what I had. Cleaning out the pantry gave me the chance to consolidate any food that I had as well. It also gave me an idea of what space I had to work with. It’s a great feeling to see any empty space just waiting to be utilized.

Step 2: Get shopping
Now, after you clean everything out there are two ways you can go about organizing . You can either put everything back in your pantry in an orderly manner or you can go shopping for some organizational tools. These tools allow you to keep things tidy, neat and you can get a better idea of what food you have in your pantry. There are so many options when it comes to organizational tools. I like to start my search by doing recon work. I hit a lot of stores to see what they carry, the amount they have, and the prices. I hit the basics like Home Goods, Target, Marshalls, Bed Bath and Beyond, T.J. Maxx, At Home, and Walmart to name a few. I ended up getting a majority of my tools from Home Goods, Bed Bath and Beyond and At Home. I decided to go with the Good Gripes OXO series but there was an abundance of different brands and options at all the store I went to. As I was shopping I kept in mind what containers I wanted to use to store my food it. This helped when it came to purchasing the right amount of containers.

Step 3: Get Organized
After I purchased all my containers I washed them all, I put all the food into the containers I had purchased. For some it was easy, for others it took trial and error to figure out what containers worked best for each food. After all the food was properly stored came the fun part. I got to organize the containers and baskets in my pantry. Once again this took time to see what set-up worked best for my pantry. I got chalkboard labels for my baskets to show what’s inside. I kept a few things in their packaging but for the most part everything is in clear containers.

After

I have had this setup for a few days now and I am really loving it. It keeps things neat and organized and it allows me to see my food and how much I have left of everything. This has been the biggest saver. I found myself in the past buying food because I didn’t remember seeing it in the pantry or I couldn’t find it. With the new containers I have a better understanding of what I have and what I need.

Although this was a big project, I am happy I got it done and I’m even more happier with the results.