Silk Scarves

When I was in Paris this Summer, I was immensely inspired to upgrade my daily look. The Parisians know how to elevate their style effortlessly with a bold lip color or fun accessory. One element I noticed again and again was their creativity when it came to silk scarves. Paris is known for the classic silk scarf tied around the neck, but my visit proved they have broadened their signature look quite a bit. If you’re like me and constantly try to emulate a Parisian, check out a few simple ways adding a silk scarf to your wardrobe can do just that…

Classic

Silk Scarves, Paris

Headband

Silk Scarves, Paris

Hair Tie

Silk Scarves, Paris

Loose Classic

Silk Scarves, Paris

Shrug

Silk Scarves, Paris

Bracelet

Silk Scarves, Paris

Anklet

Silk Scarves, Paris

Vintage

Silk Scarves, Paris

Belt Loop

Silk Scarves, Paris

Purse

Silk Scarves, Paris

“I wanted to be a certain kind of woman. I became that kind of woman.” —Diane Von Furstenberg

Statement Earrings

As Winter starts winding down, I’m beginning to plan for Spring. I have already started coming up with warm weather outfits in my head involving floral prints, cropped jeans, and flowy skirts. Aside from clothing, accessories are also something I enjoy experimenting with each season. There are so many trends to look out for—one of my favorites being statement earrings. I feel like everywhere I turn I notice a different influencer sporting a bold, beautiful piece of jewelry on their ear and I’m eager to join in the fun. Normally, I’m attracted to a simple stud or modest dangle, but in the spirit of Spring, I’m going to step out of my comfort zone and try something new. I love the way a statement earring can make an average outfit pop. If you still don’t believe me, take a look at some inspiring earrings that will make you want to indulge in a new pair or two for yourself.

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Taoleistatement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Kendra Scott

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Ettika

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Kate Spade

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Kenneth Jay Lane

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Shashi

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Carousel Jewels

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Carousel Jewels

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Goodnight Macaroon

statement earrings, jewelry, spring, bold

Kendra Scott

“Jewelry has the power to be this one little thing that can make you feel unique.” –Jennie Kwon

Holiday Hair

The holidays are creeping up on us, and I couldn’t be more ready. One of my favorite aspects of the season are the many fun excuses to get all dolled up! It’s no secret that experimenting with hair and makeup is one of my most beloved past times, and Thanksgiving is a great chance to debut a new style! As I’ve blogged about before, Kristin Ess is one of the most Instagram worthy hairstylists out there—she’s constantly inspiring me to try something new. I love her effortless, chic looks. They feel ethereal and timeless, and usually aren’t that difficult to recreate. I especially love when she adds a simple accessory to her up-dos—something that would fit well on an extra special occasion during the Winter months. Take a peek at some of my favorite looks that she has created; I also gathered up some pretty accessories that will elevate any hairstyle this season. Happy styling!

holiday, hair, Kristin Ess

holiday, hair, Kristin Ess

holiday, hair, Kristin Ess

holiday, hair, Kristin Ess

 

holiday hair accessories

Shopbop

holiday hair accessories

Anthroplogie

 

holiday hair accessories

Madewell

holiday hair accessories

Shopbop

holiday hair accessories

Shopbop

“I’ve always thought of accessories as the exclamation point of a woman’s outfit.” —Michael Kors

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What’s in my backpack?

School Supplies

It’s that time of year again. As Mark Twain once said, “Don’t let schooling interfere with your education.” Nonetheless, it’s good to be prepared. As a college senior, I have lots of experience with school supplies. Check out my backpack essentials:

baggu backpack

Baggu backpack

baggu laptop sleeve

Baggu Laptop Sleeve

Baggu is my go-to bag brand. Their designs are simple and their material lasts.

bareminerals lipstick

bareMinerals Lipstick

I never leave the house without this lipstick. The formula is comfortable and the nude tint is perfect for everyday.

Boo-Boo Cover-Up

Boo-Boo Cover-Up

I can’t tell you how many times I have been so happy I had cover-up with me at school. It can be a life saver.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender Essential Oil

When school is stressing you out, a whiff of this will do the trick.

Gucci Glasses Case

Gucci Glasses Case

Not only is this case chic, but it is also extremely durable–perfect for inside your backpack.

Klean Kanteen

Klean Kanteen

Staying hydrated is key for a productive day at school. Keeping a refillable water bottle with you is cost effective and good for the environment.

Target Planner

Target Planner

My planner is my most prized possession–it keeps me organized and sane. The cute floral design is an added plus!

Etsy Pencils

Etsy Pencils

Speaking of cute designs, these pencils make a dull writing tool into a fun accessory.

Louis Vuitton Wallet

Louis Vuitton Wallet

It’s always good to have your wallet on hand, especially when you need to buy a coffee and scone between classes.

Bobby Pins

Bobby Pins

Mundane, yet vital. Studying is impossible with your hair in your face.

The Choker

Chokers

It’s no secret that chokers have come back in style. Even though all the top supermodels are wearing them, it’s been hard for me to hop back on the 90s train. I think the reason they haven’t resonated with me is because they aren’t a subtle accessory, but rather a statement piece. Until now, that is…

Free People have a wide variety of chokers that are more my style. They are understated and elegant. Here are a just a few chokers from their collection that stood out to me:

chokers

Lana Delicate Chain Choker

Chokers

Mirella Drop Choker

Chokers

Flower Bomb Delicate Choker

“You don’t need to follow trends to be stylish.” Naomie Harris

The Belt

The belt is an accessory I forget about easily. I rarely need to wear it on my jeans, so I end up not wearing it at all. Today, however, it made all the difference.

Gap Dress, Nordstrom Sunnies, Lucky Brand Heels

I found this dress at the Gap and fell in love. The dropped waist made me feel like I was from the 1920s–an inspiring fashion era. But tonight I wasn’t in the vintage mood. Thus, the belt.

Gap Dress, Nordstrom Sunnies, Lucky Brand Heels, Urban Belt

I added this Urban belt and immediately felt complete. Some nights you want your waist defined and some nights you don’t. The belt makes it so either option is possible, and for that I’m grateful. If you think about it, you’re really getting two outfits for the price of one! Ah, fashion. Your wallet will love you for it.

Check out a few other belt dresses I’m digging right now:

ModCloth Dress

ModCloth

Nordstrom Dress

Nordstrom

Forever 21 Dress

Forever 21

What’s In My Bag

what's in my bag

I found this Rebecca Minkoff tote at Nordstrom Rack and just had to have it! It’s big enough to carry all my stuff, but it doesn’t feel like a piece of luggage.

Check out my list of handbag essentials:

A Good Book/Magazine–You never know when you’ll have extra time in a waiting room or get bored on the bus.

A Small Notebook & Pen–It’s so handy to be able to pull out pen and paper when an important thought comes to mind that you don’t want to forget!

Wallet–DUH.

Sunglasses–Good for both outdoors and indoors when trying to see in sunlight or look put together after a rough night’s sleep.

A Piece of Jewelry–Spur of the moment dinner plans might cause for a little something extra.

Small Makeup Bag–Perfect for concealing a hairbrush, pressed powder, hair tie, argan oil, lipstick, tweezers, and perfume (all quite necessary, I swear).

Reflection

Since it is now 2016, I think it is appropriate to reflect on some of my favorite blog posts–going all the way back to the beginning! I love looking back and seeing how my style has evolved. I’m proud of these looks. This blog has been a wonderful outlet, and I’m so excited for what’s to come!

Happy New Year!!!

Urban Dress

Urban Outfitters Dress

Express Top

Express Top

Zara Heels

Zara Heels

Levi's Jeans

Levi’s Jeans

Urban Outfitters Pants

Urban Outfitters Pants

H&M Jacket

H&M Jacket

Target Purse

Target Purse

Nordstrom Crop Top

Nordstrom Crop Top

Cathy Jean Booties

Cathy Jean Booties

Lucky Brand Boyfriend Jeans

Lucky Brand Boyfriend Jeans

Cotton On Scarf

Cotton On Scarf

Target Dress

Target Dress

Sundance Earrings

Sundance Earrings

Urban Outfitters Pants

Urban Outfitters Pants

Brandy Melville Dress

Brandy Melville Dress

American Apparel Top

American Apparel Top

The Sak Purse

The Sak Purse

Brandy Melville Hat

Brandy Melville Hat

“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” -Rachel Zoe

Modern

It’s amazing how much style has changed throughout the years. What was once appropriate for an office setting is no longer the mainstream. I recently saw the new movie, The Intern, and it reminded me just how much workwear has evolved.

Urban black tank, Urban pants, Zara heels, Lestrade Bag, Nordstrom Sunnies

Right now, we are enjoying the casual workwear phase. Mixing and matching laid back pieces with hints of something fancy or professional is all the rage.

Urban black tank, Urban pants, Zara heels, Lestrade Bag, Nordstrom Sunnies

It’s fun to experiment with your style in a workplace setting. The suit and tie uniform is no longer required, although, a timeless look like that is truly unbeatable. Our modern times have allowed us to play a little. I enjoy pairing an androgynous article of clothing with a feminine accent piece that I am most comfortable in–like these pants with my oversized sunglasses.

Urban black tank, Urban pants, Zara heels, Lestrade Bag, Nordstrom Sunnies

What is important, however, is that you tried. Your workplace attire must be a step up from what you wear on the weekends. For you, this may mean wearing a pair of heels or a button down instead of sneakers and a t-shirt. That doesn’t mean you can’t be comfortable, though. Dressing up is a very individual process.

casual workplace wear

For instance, this guy looks ready to head into the office with a pair of sneakers on. That is because of the way he dressed up his shirt and blazer.

laid back office look

Or, keep the t-shirt and add a pair of heels and businesslike jacket. Remember, workwear is not necessarily the same thing you would deem appropriate for an interview. Jeans are something you can wear once you have the job, not when you’re trying to get it.

Urban black tank, Urban pants, Zara heels, Lestrade Bag, Nordstrom Sunnies

Modern times are telling us that it’s ok to look like ourselves. Professional environments are stuffy enough. Looking put together in something you feel good about is more valued than wearing a pair of misfitted slacks.

Urban black tank, Urban pants, Zara heels, Lestrade Bag, Nordstrom Sunnies

“Dress shabbily and they remember the dress; dress impeccably and they remember the woman.” – Coco Chanel

On Me: Urban top & bottoms

Zara shoes

Nordstrom Sunnies

Lestrade bag (Santa Barbara)

Alternatives

I have always been self-conscious about my legs. It’s been hard for me to find a good pair of shorts that I feel confident in. Most denim shorts are too tight, too short, and fall too low on my waist. Luckily, I have found a few pairs of high-waisted cloth shorts to wear instead.

Abercrombie crop top, Abercrombie high-waisted striped shorts, Gap Strappy Sandals

They are looser, more comfortable, and more flattering.

Abercrombie crop top, Abercrombie high-waisted striped shorts, Gap Strappy Sandals

These alternatives are a lot easier to dress up too! Pair them with the right accessories, and before you know it they are ready for a night out on the town.

Abercrombie crop top, Abercrombie high-waisted striped shorts, Gap Strappy Sandals

The right pattern makes them the best accent piece to bring out on a hot day.

Abercrombie crop top, Abercrombie high-waisted striped shorts, Gap Strappy Sandals

 A crop top and a denim jacket add a classic and simple vibe to the look.

Abercrombie crop top, Abercrombie high-waisted striped shorts, Gap Strappy Sandals

On Me: Abercrombie Shorts & Top

Gap Sandals