Double Take: DVF Dress

Diane Von Furstenberg’s spring and summer collection was one of my favorites at NYFW.  The vibrant colors, eclectic prints, and feminine draping in this collection are alluring and flatter just about every woman.  I love the light and subtle abstract print of this dress in particular, which lends itself to be just as easily dressed up as dressed down. 

Clockwise from top:  J. Crew tote, Cheap Monday sunglasses, Juicy Couture hat, Modesta flats, DVF dress, Chloe clutch, Elie Saab heels, Zad necklace

Best Bangs





When it comes to hair, I rarely stray from routine.  I literally can’t recall the last time I had more than two inches cut and layers trimmed.  In fact, I only started dying and highlighting my hair about a year and a half ago, ten years behind most of my friends.  So when my hair dresser suggested getting bangs I declined and stored that suggestion away for a later day.  Now, almost a year later, I’m finally in the mood for change.  Here are some samples I’ve found to take to my hair appointment this upcoming weekend.  Let's hope I don’t chicken out!

*All Photos Compliments of pinterest.com

Wrapped With A Bow

Nothing is more feminine and romantic than a beautiful delicate bow.  The plus: it's a trend that never goes out of style.

1.  Mod Cloth dress, $49.99

2.  Marc Jacob sunglasses, $259

3.  Zara belt, $26

4.  Jane Norman shorts, $52

5.  Coach Poppy perfume, $60

6.  Asos hair band, $18.47

7.  Topshop bra, $32

8.  DV by Dolce Vita pumps, $89



Chicken, Bacon, and Avocado Quesadilla

Photo Compliments of kevinandamanda.com

Mexican has to be one of my favorite types of food.  It’s so simple, quick, and easy to make yet its deliciousness is worth hundreds of hours of cooking.  So imagine how eager I was to combine that with my absolute favorite food of all, bacon.  My hopes were high for an amazing new twist on my usual veggie quesadillas and these were phenomenal!  The taste of bacon burst through in every bite and the avocado chunks were the perfect fresh and light ingredient to balance out the flavor.  Paired with a margarita, this is the perfect summer meal.

Fringe Fest



Photo Compliments of Asos.com

I’d be lying if I told you I’m a huge fringe fan.  The style too often teeters between 20s flapper and 70s boho.  Both looks I appreciate, but they’ve had their time.  So I was completely blown away when I stumbled upon a fringe shift dress from Asos that I absolutely worship.  Behold!  Simple shape, romantic lace, and flirty fringe all in one, yet still somehow understated.  Paired with this structured color block bag and these pumps, you’ll be all set for a summer party!

Happy Cinco de Mayo

Photo Compliments of thesweetestoccasion.com

Happy Cinco de Mayo!  Sadly, my Cinco de Mayo festivities will be limited to grabbing Chipotle to-go since I’m in the middle of finals.  Celebratory margaritas will have to wait until next week, so enjoy one for me!

Gift Guide: Mother's Day

With Mother’s Day less than a week away, you’re probably scrambling like the rest of us to find the perfect gift to show your mom how much you care.  Your mom already knows that you love her, but what does it hurt to shower her with your love more than usual this Sunday.  Whether you go the traditional route with flowers and a card or spend a little extra on jewelry, you should first and foremost thank her for everything she’s done for you.  If you’re still in a bind for a gift here are some ideas for inspiration, and remember that everyone (especially moms) loves homemade treats like these. 



1.       Rebecca Minkoff “Pretty Mama” Change Purse, $55

2.      Tag Pink Martini Glasses, $49.49

3.      Red Envelope Jewel Blossom Vases, $39.95

4.      Charm & Chain Crystal Pave Studs, $32

5.      Topshop Blazer, $110

6.      Charm & Chain Crystal Diamond Earrings, $100

7.      Kate Spade Wallet, $67

8.     Anthropologie Flowers Measuring Cups, $38

9.      Body Shop Peppermint Foot Spa, $32

10.  Burberry Brit Sheer Perfume, $50-80

11.   Topshop Striped Cardigan, $80

12.  Kate Spade “Shining Light” Bracelet, $58

Fascinators

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

Aside from the gorgeous princess bride, the biggest showstopper at the Royal Wedding was, without a doubt, fascinators.  These ostentatious hats could not be more properly named as I think all 2 billion viewers were absolutely enthralled and fascinated by the variety of exquisite toppers donned by guests.  Whether feathers or flowers, lace or beads, we saw it all, the good and the bad (see above).  Will it soon become a trend in American weddings?  Only time will tell but I’m betting on it.  And I can’t lie, I’m kind of excited.

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

Photo Compliments of dailymail.co.uk

A Royal Dream In McQueen

Absolutely breathtaking.  Kate Middleton looked stunning in her dress fit for a fairytale wedding.  The dress, designed by Sarah Burton of Alexander McQueen, with its lace, deep v, and long sleeves, will inevitably shape the future of wedding fashion.  Look for more royal wedding trend recaps to come!     

*All Photos Compliments of dailymail.co.uk 

Waterproof

Photo Compliments of pinterest.com

Spring brings to mind beautiful tulips, barbecues with friends, and positive energy that were all missing over the winter.  However, spring weather is never a sure thing and unfortunately we don’t always get the best of it.  The past week has been touched by so many rainstorms that my excitement for spring began to wane.  Luckily last weekend’s forecast of more storms was entirely inaccurate and I got to enjoy many study breaks outside in the sunny warm weather.  In an effort to prepare myself for the rainy days that are still ahead, I styled a completely waterproof outfit with fun pops of color for a nice spring feel.  Stay dry!

1.       Bubble Umbrella, $23.10

2.      Michael Michael Kors Hooded Trench, $110

3.      Hunter Rain Boots, $125

4.      Furla Candy Bag, $195

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Last Friday for my boyfriend’s birthday, I treated him to homemade red velvet cupcakes, as neither of us are crazy about typical birthday cakes.  Even though they’re baked the same way, there’s something about having a personal-sized miniature cake in adorable little wrappers that tricks my taste buds into thinking that cupcakes are so superior in taste to cake.  I tried out this amazing and simple recipe, and did I mention that the cupcakes are topped with homemade cinnamon cream cheese icing.  It was the most genius union of sweetness and decadence, making it the perfect birthday treat!

Backyard Luxury

What I wouldn’t give to have one of these as my backyard. 

Hope you all have a fun and relaxing weekend.  Enjoy the beautiful spring weather!

All Photos Compliments of pinterest.com

Outfit Inspiration: Peacock Chic

Photo Compliments of seekingthemuse.com

One of the most beautiful animals on Earth has to be the peacock.  Their vibrant blues, electric teals, and earthy greens and browns combine to form the most gorgeous color scheme that nature could create.  With nude hues taking over this season, accessorizing with a pop of these peacock-inspired colors will add instant glam to any outfit.  My peacock feather earrings (similar to these) are my go-to accessory when I need to add color to a simple black or taupe dress.  The above eye-popping photos inspired me to style an outfit that showcases the variety of stunning rich colors in peacock feathers without being too literal.  Hope you like!

1.       Asos, $69.93

2.      Max & Chloe, $163

3.      Forever 21, $5.80

4.      Lodis, $158

5.      House of Harlow, $36

6.      Forever 21, $22.80



Suit Up

Photo Compliments of Anthropologie's Summer Ad

D.C. weather is nothing to brag about, but with highs in the 80s, a cool breeze, and sunny skies, today was perfection.  The weather served as a friendly reminder that summer is just around the corner.  And with a new season comes some closet alterations.  At the top of this week’s agenda is switching out my heavy sweaters for light, flirty, and colorful warm-weather clothes.  I can’t wait to pull out my swimsuits in preparation for days by the pool and a few vacations to the beach.  Even though I prefer two piece suits for optimal tanning, this season’s fresh new takes on one piece suits has me absolutely smitten.  In fact, this J.Crew one piece practically had to be pried out of my hands in the interest of saving money.  Here are just some of the suits I’m dying to add to my swimsuit collection this summer.  

1.       Diane Von Furstenberg, $220

2.      Anthropologie, $178

3.      J. Crew, $115

4.      Anthropologie, $146

5.      Victoria’s Secret, $66

6.      Anthropologie, $236

Words To Live By

Remind yourself of this every day.  Have a great weekend!

Photo Compliments of tomkatstudio.blogspot.com



On Board With Spring

Photo Compliments of Elle Magazine and whowhatwear.com/blog

Sailors, sailboats, anchors…call me cliché but I’ve always been into the nautical theme.  When I dressed up as a sailor for Halloween last year I went around spouting phrases like “ahoy matey” and saluted people, thinking that I was ever so clever.  It must be a combination of my love for the ocean and relaxed prep that draw me to this classic Summer style.  So how can you wear this look without looking like Gilligan?

To get your seafaring swag started, find a relaxed-fit striped shirt.  For this style you don’t want anything too clingy.  H&M, as well as just about every retailer right now, has a great selection of striped tops.  For classic stripes try this number; for a unique look try these contrasting stripes. 

For bottoms try cropped jeans, cropped trousers, or a flouncy skirt.  I like this version of boyfriend jeans because they’re slightly fitted and not too baggy like some.  Cropped trousers are another great option especially for their color versatility.  From rusty shades to pastels, all the colors of the rainbow are covered.  Or tuck your striped shirt into one of these adorable flouncy skirts.

Have fun with the shoes whether you wear flats or wedges.  I love this colorful pair of skimmers and this metallic pair, both from Piperlime.  Sperrys are quintessential for the preppy look we’re going for.   And these wedges will not only be perfect for the nautical look, they’ll become a staple for you this season.

Lastly, top it all off with fun accessories.  I wish I looked better in hats because they’re the perfect addition to this look.  Anthropologie has unique fedoras and Forever 21 has tons of great wide brim hats.  Other accessories that play up this look include this necklace, bracelet, and clutch.

There are so many ways to personalize this look; just remember it’s all about looking casual yet pristine.  To get more inspiration check out this Elle photo shoot.

Monday Must-Haves

This past week was anything but relaxing, between catching up on school work that should have been completed before spring break and sorting through my overflowing inbox at work.  Though this week looks to be shaping up to be the same, I’m keeping in mind all that I have to be thankful for and focusing on my haves rather than have-nots.  My haves this week: 

1.   JewelMint.  This jewelry collection, co-owned by Kate Bosworth, has been everywhere lately (see here and here), and for good reason.  Jewelry is specially picked to match your personal style and each item costs only $29.95!  I ordered the earrings and bracelet below, which are currently on sale two for the price of one.  Join here and happy shopping.

2.   Songs for Japan.  There are no words to describe the devastation in Japan.  From the images of the wreckage caused by the tsunami to the news updates about extremely dangerous radiation levels, I think we all want to reach out and help the people of Japan.  For only $9.99 you can download this 38-song album on iTunes, which features everyone from John Lennon to Beyoncé, and all proceeds go directly to the Japanese Red Cross.  It’s a great addition to my iTunes library and made me realize that Bieber songs really aren’t all that bad.  

3.   Miss Dior Cherie.  This is one of my two favorite perfumes and with its beautiful floral scent it’s my go-to fragrance for Spring and Summer.  Miss Dior Cherie exudes femininity and is neither too strong nor too light.  Thanks to my parents, I have a brand new large bottle to keep me covered through the coming months.    

Liege Waffles

After last week’s vacation and a wonderful weekend visit from my parents, my boyfriend and I were sad to see such an amazing and memorable week come to an end.  But rather than dive back into reality and the hustle and bustle of our lives we decided to end the weekend with a perfectly lazy Sunday.  We had all the makings for our favorite Liege waffle recipe, paired that with bacon and mimosas, stuffed our faces and watched Travel Channel’s best beaches marathon (just to make the end of vacation sting a little more). 

If you’ve ever been to Belgium then you know a good Liege waffle when you taste one, and this recipe delivers.  The waffles turn out light and fluffy on the inside with a caramelized coating from the pearl sugar on the outside.  They are reminiscent of the waffles you pick up on street carts in Belgium and could just as easily be served as breakfast or dessert.  No maple syrup needed. 

Funktional

Photo Compliments of Revolveclothing.com

I recently discovered Funktional, a relatively new L.A.-based brand that combines practical, easy-to-wear clothes with a city girl edge.  I’ve been coveting the outfit above, styled by Revolve Clothing, for its clean silhouette mixed with its slightly funky aesthetic.  Although the dress is sold out (sad face), there’s much more to look forward to from this brand.  I was completely enthralled with the sneak peak of Funktional’s Spring 2011 collection (as seen below) which shows off the brand’s expertise in mixing flowy with fitted and feminine with masculine.  Keep an eye out because this is definitely a brand to watch.

Photo Compliments of blog.blackmarketla.com

Vacation Blues

Palm trees at Coronado

After vacation I’m usually itching to get home so that I can sleep in my own bed and detox after overindulging while away.  Not this time.  Something was different about SoCal.  I saw and experienced so much during my week in San Diego, and did my fair share of overindulging, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that there is still so much more to SoCal that I have yet to discover.  Maybe it was that I encountered some of the nicest people I’ve ever met or maybe it was the endless shorelines and beaches, being in San Diego almost felt as comfortable as home.

Flamingos at the San Diego Zoo

Fin-shaped tortilla chips in La Jolla

Cave at Sunset Cliffs