Feared and Revered

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Valentine's Day: One of the most feared and revered "holidays." Trust me, I know that some hate it and some love it. I am one of those annoying people who love Valentine's Day, so, warning: if you hate it, this is not the post for you. 

Whether you plan on celebrating with a boyfriend or girlfriend, a friend, or by griping about how much you dislike the day, it is always festive to add shades of pink or red and some glitter to your outfit. Although, I do not recommend going overboard (I don't love Valentine's Day THAT much.) Simple cardigans or accessories are a great, inexpensive way to be celebratory, without looking like cupid. 

If you're stuck on what to get someone for a gift, here are some affordable ideas for guys and girls. I discovered a website that specializes in personalizing gifts, and I absolutely love everything they sell. 

1. Forever 21 wallet: $12.80

2. Victoria's Secret shimmer lotion: $12.00

3. Forever 21 bracelet: $10.80

4. Sephora lip gloss: $10.00

5. Rhinestone personalized mug: $21.95

6. Forever 21 dress: $19.90

7. Personalized candy bars: Get 24 for $24.00

8. Personalized canvas frame: $23.95

9. Forever 21 scarf: $8.80

10. Victoria's Secret gift tin: $20.00

11. Forever 21 cardigan: $17.80

12. Personalized love vouchers: $6.95

An Inspired Shoe

I went to the mall last week and spotted these heels at Forever 21. They instantly caught my eye and their light, nautical vibe made me crave summer (or at least my upcoming spring break trip.) They are the kind of shoes that you can build an ensemble around and that easily transition from winter to summer. They didn't have my size in the store, but I was able to find them online. Although, I haven't yet purchased them, I can't help but think about all of the different outfits they would go with.

(click to enlarge)

Outfit number 1: perfect for the winter 
Forever 21 peep toe heels: $22.80
Piperlime grey sweater: on sale for $38.97 from $97.00
Charlotte Russe Jegging: $20.00 
Forever 21 Beaded necklace: $5.80


Total cost: $87.57 


Outfit number 2: when you feel like dressing up 
Forever 21 peep toe heels: $22.80
Forever 21 bubble lace dress: $27.80
Forever 21 skinny belt: $2.80 


Total cost: $53.40 


Outfit number 3: on a summer day 
Forever 21 peep toe heels: $22.80
Forever 21 nautical knit shorts: $11.80 
Forever 21 soft pleats top: $19.80


Total cost: $54.40

Let Loose

The loose and off-the-shoulder look of the 80's is in full force this year. I'm loving the carefree, sultry vibe of these comfy shirts. Their versatility means that they look great with leggings, jeans, or mini-skirts, so they are perfect for casual day-time outings or dressy nights at the club. The loose fit is sure to flatter all body types, but you can choose the perfect sleeve and length for your personal preference. Here are some affordable off-the-shoulder shirts complements of Victoria's Secret. My advice? Find a style of these shirts that you like and stock up on them in multiple colors. You'll be surprised by how much use you can get out of them!

from left to right...

Cobblestone tunic $24.50

Cream drapery $6.99

Blue tunic $24.50

Grey Tunic $15.00

Are you down, down, down, down

Despite everyone's desire for the spring to come, the temperature seems to be dropping everyday and the snow keeps falling. At this point, getting dressed for the weather is becoming frustrating, and I'm almost scared to go outside. Even my warmest winter jacket doesn't seem to be doing the trick of protecting me from the whirling winds of Connecticut, and I can't help but envy the warm butts of those who have knee-length, down coats. My friend recently purchased one of the puffy, marshmallow-esque coats, and she very proudly boasts that it is one of the best things that has ever happened to her (seems like she might have a rough life if that is the best thing that's ever happened to her, but at least we know they are good coats.)

There are many different styles of these long down coats. Some cinch in at the waist to flatter your figure, others are decorated with fur hoods, and some flow longer than others. No matter which style you think will change your life, here are some affordable options to get you started...

From left to right:
Bronze Ellen Tracy Quilted Down Walking Coat  on sale for $89.90 from $138.00
Black Aqua Pillow Collar Long Puffer Coat on sale for $99.00 from $198.00 
GAP long, belted, silver puffer coat (comes in two other colors) on sale for $49.99 from $128.00
Tommy Hilfiger long coat $100.00 

The Winter Sundress

My latest CollegeFashionista post (check it out and hit "like" through the site) was on what I like to call "the winter sundress." I've done a post on sweater dresses before, (here) but they remain my absolute favorite clothing of the winter, and I've recently discovered some new, affordable sweater dress options. As I said in my CollegeFashionista post, dresses are often essential to making a Fashionista feel feminine and youthful. It is somewhat tragic that the cold weather can make it hard able to wear them. A sweater dress is a great substitution and winter version of the ever popular sundress. Sweater dresses pair well with boots, tights, and leggings and can be dressed up or accessorized with scarves, long necklaces, and belts. And as is the case with any dress, they are often affordable if you consider the cost to be for an entire outfit instead of just one piece, since they can be worn alone or with common staples that most of us already have.

(from left to right)


Free People Striped Sweater Dress- $69.95-- available in other colors
Forever 21 Sweater Dress- $27.80
Urban Outfitters Scoop Back dress- $29.99
Victoria's Secret Three-quarter Sleeve Dress- $29.99-- available in other colors 
Charlotte Russe Cap Sleeved Sweater Dress- $34.50




-A.L.L

The Classics

The other day, I went shopping on a quest to spend a little of my holiday money on some back to school clothes. After raiding Forever 21 and H&M, (as usual) I discovered there was a clear theme among everything I purchased that I was completely oblivious to while shopping. Each sweater, bag, skirt, or tank top that I took home was either navy blue, cream, black, or a patterned combination of those colors. Either my sense of style is painfully dull, or a classic, maritime look is currently overwhelming stores. Taking the hopeful stance that it is the latter, here are some great, affordable options to channel the current marine-esque trend. 

Forever 21 striped top $13.80

Forever 21 scarf $11.80

Gap ruffle sleeved top $54 

Express military skirt $49.50

Charlotte Russe bow dress $26.50

Charlotte Russe connected skirt and top $26.50

Forever 21 striped cardigan $22.90

Go Get 'Em

I've recently begun applying for summer public relations internships and quickly realized that I'm in need of professional and chic interview attire. Wearing a stylish, yet appropriate outfit for an interview (or to work once you've landed the job) is essential to creating a positive first impression. The exact ensemble you choose may differ depending on the type of job you're going for, but in general, there are few basic pieces that can be purchased that are versatile and can be paired with different shirts and shoes when needed. A well fitting pants or skirt suit is best and can be transformed by matching it with a white basic oxford versus a boldly colored ruffled blouse or high boots with textured tights versus closed toed kitten heels. It is amazing how many looks you can create with just a simple blazer and bottoms. Whichever fashion route you choose to take, it is essential that your look is professional, fits your body and your personality, and does not look cheap. Of course, it is acceptable for the outfit to be affordable (in fact, I recommended it) but make sure it appears to be good quality. It may be difficult to find true professional look that is inexpensive but does not appear like it was. Therefore, as painful as it is to spend all of your holiday cash on one outfit, (especially before you're even employed) it is just the kind of occasion that one should splurge for and invest in.

A great way to go about this is to find a good quality suit and pair it with a less expensive undershirt and funky (but appropriate) jewelery. Or, do as I did, and try an outlet store to find your perfect suite. Here are some great options to help you start off on your quest! 

J Crew blazer- $230
J Crew Pinstripe Dress- $180
Anthropologie Cowl Neck Shirt-$88
New York and Company Ruffled Shirt-$37
J Crew Pencil Skirt- $118
Charlotte Russe Necklace- $12.50

I'm Back

I had a whirlwind, sleep-deprived, and thoroughly busy trip to Israel that concluded with me on a hospital bed, as I suffered a nearly fatal allergic reaction in the airport and missed my flight. Despite the dramatic ending, I truly enjoyed my trip, but I am thrilled to get back to blogging (and sleeping.) Some of the highlights of my trip include riding a camel at sunset through the desert, hiking the Masada, visiting small villages, testing delicious olive oil at a small factory, and meeting an amazing group of Israeli soldiers. I took hundreds of pictures of people, places, landscapes, and fashion. After a ten day trip around the country, I did notice one particular thing about Israeli fashion: though Israel does have its fair share of fashionistas, almost all young adults are soldiers, therefore fashion seems to be more about practicality than showing off. Many cities have American stores, along with other small local shops, providing citizens and visitors with a sound variety. The fashion in Israel is certainly affordable, as almost every store has a "Sale" sign on the window (making me a bit skeptical.) I went to a street market in Jerusalem that was much like one you might find in NYC. I planned on taking multiple pictures of all of the fresh food, handmade scarves, and local jewelry, but, of course, my camera died right before I arrived at the market. Though, due to a busy and touristy schedule, I did not get to take many pictures of the actual clothing in Israel, I'd like to share some of my favorites from my journey!

Falafel...an Israeli staple

This is shawarma, a vegetable filled Israeli food

Also, check out my latest CollegeFashionista post and "like" it on Facebook through the site!
http://www.collegefashionista.com/school/view/trend_brave_the_storm1/