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.