understated valentine

Dress: Free People, Coat: J.Crew, Scarf: Jcrew old (similar here), Boots: Stuart Weitzman old (similar here),  

on my new york city loves

Although I will always be a Florida girl at heart, I have moved to New York and love every single day of the city life. You can find an incredible bite of food on almost every block, and there is virtually always something to do. After all, the city never sleeps. But, my favorite part about living in New York City is the exposure to fashion. I love the street style and especially the shopping. I am currently obsessing over Fivestory, Intermix, Opening Ceremony, and Scoop NYC because they're all meccas of style.

Fivestory the brainchild of Claire Distenfeld and her father is the realization of my most decadent, fashionable dreams in an Upper East Side townhouse. The boutique is very much high-end and showcases many lesser-known designers. The clothing and accessories are displayed as artistic masterpieces, just as they should be.

Intermix has taken the media by storm recently after being purchased by Gap. The boutique is fun and young and hosts a great number of designers from Joie to Herve Leger to Giuseppe Zanotti. I can't go in without finding something new that I absolutely love.

Opening Ceremony is famous for its quirky, yet very beautiful products. It's the edgier sister to Fivestory, featuring lesser-known designers while upholding a high-end status. The prices are often daunting, but the clothes and accessories are always stunning and fun.

Scoop NYC has been one of my favorites for years. Its products are very similar to those of Intermix. The volume of clothing at times can be overwhelming. But, overwhelming is never a bad thing when it comes to clothes.

A Preen dress from Fivestory, a Zac Posen maxi from Scoop, an M & Guia dress from Intermix, a Missoni caftan from Intermix, a 3.1 Phillip Lim satchel from Scoop, Meli platforms from Intermix, Ash wedge sneakers from Intermix, a Proenza Schouler messenger from Opening Ceremony, and Jeremy Scott sunglasses from Opening Ceremony

Any suggestions for shopping in NYC? Comment below.

a cheap new year: picks under $150

After a holiday season of major gift-giving, my wallet is feeling a little lighter than I would like. However, I still have a desire for shopping that must be met. So, I have explored my favorite go-to's and compiled this set of fabulous finds under $150. Each is a fun basic that can be translated seamlessly throughout each season.

1. A  military anorak is an essential staple for winter and spring. This one, from Hive & Honey, is perfect for layering to protect against the cold yet can still be worn with a light sundress. 

2. A little black lace dress is feminine, fun, and appropriate for so many occasions, by its classification as a LBD alone. I'm dying for this Free People whimsical dress.

3. Accessories are key in any outfit. This cuff by Tinley Road adds a little shine to any ensemble, like the Free People dress above.

4. A simple sweater is perfect for rushing out the door. This MINKPINK sweater is cute, yet practical.

5. This ONE by vegan leather skirt may not be a staple. However, it can be worn day or night, with tights or sans tights. The faux leather lends it a little edge while its a-line silhouette keep it flirty and feminine.

6. Jeans are always essential. I've been searching for the perfect, relaxed pair and believe I have found it with Blank Denim.

7. Skin-tight jeans are necessary when wearing boots. So, Blank Denim's spray on jean fit the bill for the perfect boot jean.

8. This Rachel Zoe platform can be worn with a fun cocktail dress while adding lots of height, which I always appreciate.

9. A preppy, Cole Haan slipper is perfect for casual days. The leopard print and red trim keep it exciting and, no designer makes a more comfortable shoe than Cole Haan.

10. A pair of retro sunglasses are good for every sunny day, whether it's in January or June. I can't wait to get my hands on this Halogen pair.

diving back into blogging & resort wear

After three weeks of vacation in paradise, I am, as I type, headed back up north to the cold, winter weather. While packing for my trip home, I was shocked and slightly worried by my entirely black and increasingly edgy wardrobe. Growing up by the beach, my style has consisted of bright colors and tropical prints. I have come to realize that one's environment is often a reflection of style. Living in New York City, I have become more prone to wearing deep hues and black.

So, as I head back to my new edgy style, I want to take a look at the resort wear of 2013. My ode to flowers and exciting colors begins with RED Valentino and Oscar de la Renta. Both collections embody feminine, sweet silhouettes and patterns. I can easily picture myself waltzing around a beautiful, island resort in any of the items below, especially in impressionist-inspired prints.

The little black dresses, while reflective of my new style, are still perfect resort wear candidates. They are light and lacy but can be worn in the cold with every girl's winter staple: black tights.

From left to right: RED sandals, Oscar de la Renta blouse & swing skirt, RED Valentino skirt, RED Valentino black dress, Oscar de la Renta dress, RED Valentino dress

Oh, and as a New Year's resolution, I vow to blog more. Apologies for the incredibly long break.

how to go back to school

It's that time of the year again. Like I said in a recent post, Target's back-to-school commercials are flooding my TV screen. I decided to take to my blog and show my must-haves for the new year because I don't trust the weird teachers in the Target ads. I don't know-- maybe you do.

Let's begin with the cute necessities: pens, pencils, and planners-- all those sorts of things. I love matching my pencils and pens to my notebooks and erasers. I always go for bright colors; they're more exciting. Click through the list below to find my favorites. Don't miss the coolest USB flash drive disguised as a credit card. Thanks, Rebecca Minkoff. I really, really love you.

Now, onto the bags that will carry you through school. We have the backpack, the pencil pouch, the lunch bag, and the tech accessory cases. This pouch will help you practice your French and keep your pencils safe all at the same time. When choosing cases for my iPad and iPhone, I always turn to Dannijo and Kate Spade. Check out my other favorite bags below.

And, my favorite part begins. Let's talk about fashion. Collared shirts and blazers are the obvious scholastic choice. Who doesn't love adding a collar to a crew-neck? I always kick it in comfy shoes while walking up and down the stairs to classes. Oxfords and Converse are good, alternative choices. For makeup, I keep it quick and simple. I love Bobbi Brown's foundation stick, and these Crayola lip glosses are just too perfect for school. Stick them in your new pencil pouch for fun.

shop well at madewell

Each day I am forced to accept the fact that summer is ending. No more beach. No more bikinis. Just a little bronzer to hold onto that St. Tropez tan. But, in case you want one last summer purchase, head over to Madewell. I'm obsessed with their Mara Hoffman bathing suits and coverups, as well as their lightweight t-shirts. I was unable to photograph this super cute Mara Hoffman romper. Seriously, check it out.

a chambray shirt 

a travel-friendly scarf

However, if you're anything like me preparing for winter already, get ready for the sweaters and booties. They will soon be showcased throughout Madewell window displays everywhere. Get ready. And, stay tuned.

lanvin all chic & stuff

I have been obsessing over Lanvin ever since I first saw their legendary flats on Blair Waldorf and Serena van der Woodsen a la season one of Gossip Girl. Now, my love has spread to their chic, classic dresses and round frame sunglasses. A week ago I was walking through Bal Harbour Shops, literally a Mecca for the most stylish fashionistas, I was instantly taken aback by the perfection of the Lanvin boutique's window displays. Prepare to drop your jaw as you peruse the photos below.

shopping tote and similar pumps

equally fabulous dresses here and here

alice & olivia: the embodiment of summer

Summer's end is approaching: Target's back-to-school ads are cluttering my TV screen and pre-fall emails are flooding my inbox. I have to admit I save all my Barney's emails and for the most part delete the rest. But, Barney's clothes are just too stunning to delete. But I digress, when I look back onto my summer wardrobe-- the bright colors and fun prints, I instantly think of Alice & Olivia. I didn't wear it every day, but the pieces that I did wear were easily my favorites. A sequined yellow top and Picasso-esque dress were guaranteed compliments. They're too captivating to ignore and too sweet not to love.

I have officially added Stacey Bendet to my list of fashion icons, following Vanity Fair's lead. Her fun and quirky personality clearly projects through her personal style, line, and even her Instagram. I can't get enough! So, my vow this fall as I move up North to the land of black cashmere sweaters is to keep Stacey's design aesthetic in mind and bring on the color.

summer loves

So, recently I have turned away from window displays, delving into the world of personal style. I think its about time to bring back the windows, agreed?

I will begin my series of summer window displays at Nordstrom. Their Love It displays, as I like to call them, are full of super fun get-ups in bright colors adorned with the perfect accessories.

     

The summer's hottest trends are included in these two window displays-- everything from the pop of color to the pop of white. Peruse my list of favorite trends and items inspired by these Nordstrom displays. 

1. The color block dress- Parker (pictured above with an orange shirt)
2. The easy, breezy white dress- Diane von Furstenburg
3. The graphic dress- Nicole Miller
4. The carryall tote with a pop of color- Tory Burch (pictured above in three colors)
5. The fun, printed short- Paige Denim
6. The bright blazer- Gibson (pictured above in yellow)
7. The super cool, retro sunglasses- Lanvin
8. The pretty, silky scarf- kate spade new york
9. The simple beach bangle- Ippolita
10. The funky wedge- Jeffrey Campbell

I hope you find inspiration and fun in my list of must-haves! Clearly, I like the word "the" and summer dresses. 

summer fashion 2012: the hi-lo dress

Xhilaration dress, Tory Burch clutch (old) similar here and here, Steve Madden wedges (old) similar here, Prada sunglasses (old) similar here, MAC lipstick Costa Chic

Today was one of those perfect summer days when the sun shines nicely, meaning you should take out the sunscreen. But, don't worry beads of sweat won't be dripping down your face. So, I decided there was no time better than the present to show off my new hi-lo dress. I've been obsessing over the style for months, among an incredibly long list of trends. 

I met my favorite summer hi-lo dress in the Target foyer of sorts, where the big, red carts meet the overpowering aroma of Starbucks. I spotted the colors, forgot about the cart and the coffee and walked right over to pick my size. There was no need to try it on. Thought? Is my hi-lo dress really that captivating? 

I must say I take pride in this outfit for its thrifty-nature. Although I have some designer accessories, they're all old items I rediscovered to help out this cheap, but super cute dress!

what to wear in the sun

T by Alexander Wang shirt, Trouve shorts, DV by Dolce Vita sandals, Karen Walker sunnies, Tory Burch iPhone case

Although I've spent most of my trip to Islamorada lounging at the beach in my bathing suit, light and fashionable outfits are still so important. I am obsessing over these Trouve shorts. I know they look a little  like a tacky Hawaiian shirt, but I can't get enough of them. And, the yellow T by Alexander Wang shirt is so comfy- I would live in it if I could. Comfort and tacky tropical prints--the perfect combination for a vacation to the Keys.

the outfit post

Halogen tank, Pins and Needles lace shorts, DV by Dolce Vita sandal, Karen Walker Number One sunglasses

I am in the Keys for the weekend, taking in the sun and enjoying summer, and I decided it was time to document my outfits. So, let the outfit posts begin! 

trends for the summer

June 1st has come and gone, the sun is powerful, and all the windows are aligned with tropical prints and cute summer catchphrases. It's the perfect time for a new wardrobe. So, I have tracked down summer must haves: bathing suits, makeup, and shorts--the works. I also included some stores with sales! Take a look at the BCBG Max Azria and Nordstrom windows.

A window display for every summer dream:

Town House

J.Crew

Juicy Couture-- check out summer looks below

Anthropologie

BCBG Max Azria

Nordstrom

After a longtime and I believe, a well-deserved fear of velour tracksuits, I made my way into the Juicy Couture store. The window was cute and ready for summer so I felt as though I needed to give it one last chance. I did not touch any velour item and found that Juicy has quite a few cute sundresses and even a super fun romper. So perfect for summer.

Juicy Couture

Juicy Couture

I, along with every other girl, have been on the hunt for the cutest swimsuit to tan in this summer. (Please tan responsibly. Don't forget the sunscreen.) I have not found one suit in particular but a whole collection of bikinis and one pieces from We Are Handsome. I simply cannot get enough. The colors and images are so cool and unexpected. I also fell in love with Giejo's line of mix and match suits. 

We Are Handsome

In the quest to complete my summer wardrobe, I have found many tropical shorts--some slightly more ridiculous than I would like. I own the Trouve shorts pictured in the Nordstrom window. I admit--they're crazy, but I love them all the more for their quirky attitude. And, they're on sale! If you're really willing to invest in a fun tropical short these Stella McCartney shorts are a must. 

Stella McCartney

                                 

Below is a collection of the must have accessories for summer 2012. The colors pop, and they're easy to throw on with anything. After all, neon is the new neutral, according to me anyway.

Daniela Gregis

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Rebecca Minkoff

Rebecca Minkoff

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Rebecca Minkoff

Now to finish this summer fashion guide, I have compiled my favorite easy makeup essentials all bright, fun colors for summer. Enjoy!

Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick-- so easy

Bobbi Brown

Dior Dior Addict Ultra Gloss Pink Veil

Dior Nail Lacquer Riveria