Gellin'

After weeks of deliberating, I finally decided to try out a gel manicure. I didn't want to part with the 30 dollars the gels cost, but I heard so many great things about how long they last and my nails looked so rough, I pulled the trigger. I am not at all a fan of manicures because mine normally chip the same day I get them. I usually think they are a huge waste of money and prefer painting them myself so I can at least touch up the color when it chips. I just got gels today, so I can't say for sure if they are going to last the three weeks they are supposed to, but they came out great, and I highly recommend them to everyone.  

Pros of gels:

-They last longer than normal manicures

-You don't have to be as careful not to chip them as you do with normal nail polish

-They look just as good as fake nails, but they are the real thanggg.

Cons of gels:

-They are slightly more expensive.

-You don't have as many color options.

I went with a light pink because it's summer-y and natural looking...

That was Clutch

Phones are getting so super sized these days that I think it's necessary to replace the classic Coach wristlet many girls have with something a little more roomy...without spending a fortune. 

Ever since I got a new phone, (replaced my BlackBerry with a BIG ol' Droid) I have been browsing stores for a medium sized clutch/wristlet. Sidenote: My new phone is so large that my friend Ali calls it a computer. It also doesn't help that I have hands the size of a small child, so it makes it look even bigger.

Anyways...For a while, I have had a small black wristlet that I always bring out with me instead of a purse. I think it's easier to just hang something on my wrist than to have to worry about an annoying purse when I'm trying to dance and throw back shots. (Just kidding, Mom.) 

My big old computer phone won't fit in my trusty 4 year old wristlet, and it is getting quite inconvenient. I can't be bothered with always holding both my phone and my wristlet. #whitegirlproblems.

 I tried to haggle with a guy who was selling "Genuine Tory Burch" clutches right near my work, but apparently I'm not very good at it because he rejected my offer of 15 dollars. 

I'm still on the prowl but was in Express the other day and saw that they had quite a large selection for affordable prices. I didn't pull the trigger on any clutches yet because I'm hoping that my lovely sister purchases me one I had my eye on for my birthday (hopefully she still reads this thing.)

If you're looking for a medium sized clutch to take out on the town with you, Express is the place to go. All options below are from Express. Click Here to see them. Prices range from $15.90 to $118 for the animal print option.

Picnic Time!

I love Memorial Day weekend for one simple and blissful reason: It is the true marker of the beginning of summer. The weather is almost always beautiful, there are plenty of picnics and everybody has Monday off  from work to spend the day eating, drinking and catching rays. There is no better time to break out your favorite summer pieces than on Memorial Day. 

Here are some affordable essentials...

Forever 21 Sundress: $17.80

Francesca's Collection Aviators: $12

Aldo's Sandals: $20.99

Forever 21 Fedora: $6

Gap Straw Bag: $50

American Eagle Bathing Suit: $30 

Forever 21 Cutoffs: $19.80

A Brilliant Solution

I have always struggled with the concept of whether or not black and brown should be mixed together in an ensemble. Depending on the shade of brown, I sometimes think it is a classy and chic combination. Other times, it looks totally wrong. I am starting my summer internship next week, and while in Florida, I searched for a bag that was large and professional enough to carry my laptop in to work. I was really hoping to find a two toned black and brown bag so that it could be versatile and pair with any outfit, but my selection was small considering almost every bag I liked was over 200 dollars (wayyyy beyond this unpaid intern’s budget.) I finally found an affordable, professional and large enough bag, but it is completely black. I started worrying and brainstorming about what I would do on days when I was wearing brown shoes, and my ever-more-creative-than-I-am-mom came up with a brilliant solution. She suggested that I tie a brown silk scarf on my bag when I’m wearing brown. So, I headed to COACH and found the perfect scarf to transform my all black bag into a versatile accessory. For all of you readers on a budget, this is the perfect way to make one bag adaptable.

What do you guys think of the combination of black and brown?

Sticker Nails?

I was flipping through the pages of In Style magazine when I saw the advertisement for Sally Hansen nail strips. For those of you who haven’t heard of them, they are basically colored stickers for your nails that look like a fresh manicure. They appear to be great in the picture, but I am very curious to see how they actually look. I’m pretty skeptical and envision my nails looking like a kindergartener’s all decked out in bright Lisa Frank stickers. However, I am pretty willing to try them since I have never been able to “color within the lines” and manicures aren’t exactly a top priority on my budget list.

Has anyone used these strips yet? How are they? 

Bojangles

One accessory that I cannot seem to get enough of lately is bracelets. The chunkier they are and the more noise they make, the better. I like them stacked, and I like them in a variety of colors and metals. One set of bangles or one thick band can really top off an outfit and make all the difference between a simple look and a well accessorized ensemble. I have been gravitating towards the jewelry section in stores lately just so I can check out the bracelet selection. Often times, the ones I like most cost much more than I am willing to spend for costume jewelry. So, I sought out to find some bracelets at a variety of price points.

$25 from Banana Republic

$47 from Bluefly

$39.95 from HotBuckles.com

$4.80 from Forever 21

$10.80 from Forever 21

$8.80 from Forever 21

Turquoise Dreams

Costume jewelry is one of my favorite ways to accessorize an outfit. It is funky, decorative and pairs especially well with simple ensembles. Since costume jewelry is often large and made from fake materials, it is imperative to mix it with nicer pieces and balance out the look by not wearing too much at one time. Just the right amount can really make an outfit pop. Different styles and types of costume jewelry come and go with the trends, so it does not make much sense to spend a lot of money on any one piece. Some of my current favorites for costume jewelry are anything with turquoise coloring. I keep envisioning chunky turquoise bracelets against a nice tan and paired with a flowy white sundress. Hopefully this day dream will come true soon if the nice weather keeps up! 

To begin my search for turquoise costume jewelry, I went to Forever 21.com, knowing that they have great inexpensive pieces. I was able to find a wide variety, all from Forever. 

Here are my favorites...

from left to right....

Textured Stone ring: $3.80

Beaded Bracelet: $6.80

Framed pendant necklace: $6.80

Flower power earrings: $5.80

Beaded ring: $5.80

Bangle set: $6.80

Beach water earrings: $3.80

Stretch bracelet: $2.80

Beaded bracelet: $6.80

FEDORAble

Fedoras are an adorable way to top off an outfit. They put a new age spin on a classic hat, yet are feminine and chic.

Whether you're pairing them with a sundress, simple pair of jeans or a bathing suit, fedoras are the perfect spring and summer accessory (or bad-hair-day-disguiser.) There are many styles and colors to choose from, so finding one that flatters your face shape shouldn't be a problem. 

If you need to add flare and spunk to a simple ensemble, fedoras are definitely an affordable way to do so.

My girl Katherine Heigl spiced up a basic outfit by rocking her fedora

Here are some of my favorite, affordable fedoras

Charlotte Russe yellow band fedora: $12.50 (buy one, get one 50% off)

Forever 21 leopard fedora: $9.80

Charlotte Russe flower fedora: $12.50 (buy one, get one 50% off)

Forever 21 floral fedora: $9.80 

Wedge!

Spring and summer marks an important transition. And I don't mean the sudden appearance of sunshine and constant sound of birds chirping. I'm referring to wedge wearing season. Wedges are my absolute favorite type of shoe and perhaps even my favorite item to wear all together. Whether they are cork heeled or have ribbons that tie up the ankle, they are ever-flattering and versatile. They pair well with everything from dresses and high-waisted skirts to shorts and capris. And no matter what you wear them with, they seem to immediately improve an outfit and make it increasingly stylish.

Here are some of my current favorite, inexpensive wedges....

 

SM brown wedge sandal:

$69.95

American Eagle wedge in navy and pink: $49.50

Forever 21 brown wedges: $25.80

Nude and Natural

Sometimes a pair of shoes should make a statement with their bold color, impressive heel or intricate straps.   

Other times, a simple pair of nude pumps are the perfect way to complement an outfit by finishing it off in a classy manner.

 Recently, nude and light pink shoes can be spotted everywhere. This is a  refreshing trend and a great way to shy away from a standard black pair. Plus, their basic coloring can be paired with almost anything. 

Here are some nude colored heels at a variety of price ranges, but all under $100

Mix No. 6 pump: $39.95
Jessica Simpson booties: $69.95
BCBG shiny pumps: $47.96

A Style and A Cause

American Eagle is teaming up with a charity called FEED. By purchasing one of the designated totes or wristlets, you are donating to a UNICEF nutrition program in Guatemala. These bags are handmade, colorful and fashionable. If you're going to spend money on accessories, (which we all know you're going to do) it might as well be for a good cause, right?! 

I really like the vibrant and cultured vibes of the totes and wristlets and think they are great for trips to the beach of for carrying books to class. And, for hand woven products, they are extremely affordable.

Here are some of my favorites... 

The totes are $39.50 and the wristlets are $19.50

Spring Break

It's that time of year when spring fever infects us all...but those who are in college (and not yet part of the real world) get to take a week long break to vacation in a tropical place that temporarily cures our aching for warmth. In less than two weeks, I will be one of those lucky college kids to go on my first ever spring break vacation with my friends. I am immeasurably excited for my trip, but inevitably, packing is going to be stressful...especially when attempting to fit everything into a small carry-on to avoid checking luggage (ever since I saw "Meet the Parents," I have a fear of lost luggage) 

While sunscreen and a good, girly novel are clear spring break necessities, there are some other (more fashionable) essentials needed. Since most college students work all summer and empty out their bank accounts just to take this coveted trip, it is imperative that all preparatory purchases are inexpensive. 

Here are some affordable spring break essentials...

Francesca's Collection lime green watch: $20.00

Forever 21 Fedora: $9.80

American Eagle floral print sunglasses: $15.50

Victoria's Secret bathing suit: Top-$24.00, Bottom-$16.00

Lacoste Towel: $19.99

Forever 21 dress: $22.80

Victoria's Secret white tank dress cover-up: $38.00

Penny Loves Kenny Wedge: $59.95

American Eagle beach bag: $29.50

LuLu's Romper: $26.00

Last Minute Ideas!

Last week, I posted here about one of the most hated and the most loved holidays: Valentine's Day. Well, for those of you who are procrastinating about getting gifts or figuring out what you're going to wear, here are some inexpensive and accessible last minute ideas for both girls and guys.  Remember, a simple red accessory is enough to be festive for the day without going overboard. 

1. Francesca's Collections red watch: $18.00

2. Rimmel burgundy flirt nail polish: $3.99

3. Forever 21 PJ shorts: $5.80

4. LuLu's pink dress: $37.00

5. GAP boxers: $12.50

6. J. Crew men's watch strap: $15.00

Perfect Timing

Lately, I have been infatuated with watches, and it seems I am not the only one. Watches have recently become the most popular accessory for young women, and it comes as no surprise since stores have been featuring them in all different styles and colors. Over the summer, I wrote a post about watches here, but the ones I featured were slightly pricey. I found these watches a few weeks back at a local boutique called Francesca's Collections and was impressed by the quality, wide selection and inexpensive price tags! Luckily, they have a website, and these great watches can be found online. 

Each watch can be found at Francesca's for either $18, $20, or $24.

A little Warmth for your DO

Traditional snow hats like this one were acceptable to wear on the playground in elementary school, but now that we're expected to appear sophisticated and stylish, it's essential to find alternatives to pom poms and fuchsia head gear. But, of course, we still reserve the right to keep warm. A chic winter hat is the perfect way to fight the cold and subsequently accessorize your ensemble (inexpensively.) The same hat can be worn with multiple outfits to constantly transform your look to fit your mood and the weather.

Here are some of my current favorites...

(Charlotte Russe has a great selection.)

Forever 21, $7.80.

Charlotte Russe, $9.50.

Charlotte Russe, 12.50.

Charlotte Russe, $16.50.

Do the Do

The 1920's are back ala flapper style hair pieces, and I'm loving the trend. Nothing corrects a bad hair day better than an adorable headband decorated with flowers, feathers, rhinestones, or bows. These feminine style headbands are a great accessory to add flare to your outfit, top off a dressy look, or to simply disguise a frizzy mess. They are versatile and look good with up-do's or with your hair down. If you're worried that this new trend is a little too girly or innocent for you, try getting a band that's black and has chunky rhinestones that add some spunk. Or, mix them with other funky accessories to juxtapose the youthful look.

And do you even have to guess my favorite part about these lovely hair enhancers? They're totally affordable, as long as you get them from the right store.

J Crew tends to have expensive accessories, but this headband is on sale for 19.99, which is still
pricey for a headband, but certainly cheaper than the original price!

This Francesca's Collection 9 dollar "silent beauty pin" gives the illusion of wearing a headband, but it is
actually a pin. This gives you the look without the sometimes painful repercussions of a headband (as in when the little bones behind my ears start throbbing from headbands.)
.

This Forever 21 headband is only 3.80.

This Forever 21 headband is only 3.80.

From Legs to Toe

Despite the fact that before last year I hadn't worn tights since the third grade, I'm currently captivated by the perfectly affordable accessory. One of the biggest reasons I dislike the end of the year is because I can no longer wear skirts and dresses without looking and feeling a little unprepared for the cold. But now, there's no reason to fret. Since tights have made their comeback, we can wear our minis all year round.


Tights especially look great when paired with boots, which works out well since not many people can pull off bare legs and boots during the sunless winter.  From flower and paisley designs to fishnets, the new and improved tights come in all different patterns that can provide variety in your ensembles. Tights are the accessory must-have for this fall and winter.

These GAP tights are 14.50 (or 11 if you buy two or more.) They come in 2 colors.

These Forever 21 tights are only 5.80 and come in four colors.

These Urban Outfitters tights are on sale for 7.99

These American Eagle white tights are 12.50, or buy one, get one for 50% from their entire selection.

It's a satchel... Indiana Jones has one

Lately, satchels (across the body bags) have been displayed in the very front of stores. It's no surprise to me, since the bags really are incredibly convenient. I hate the responsibility and annoyance of having my purse hooked over my shoulder when I go out at night. Then, there's the ever frustrating experience of bringing a shoulder bag or tote to the movies, restaurants, or stadiums when there is no hook. One sure way to never lose your purse is to have it draped across your body, which is exactly the accommodation a satchel provides. If you are going to purchase a satchel, it is essential to love it, as it becomes a part of your outfit. It can replace long necklaces or other accessories, so try to find one that is basic enough to match many ensembles but still expresses your personal style.

Here are some affordable satchels...

This Forever 21 cross body bag is 25.80 and also comes in red.

This PacSun fold over bag is on sale for only 9.99 and also comes in teal. PacSun
has a variety of other affordable satchels too.

This Aldo bag is 46 dollars and also comes in black.

This Forever 21 bag is 32.80.

Wrap it Up

One of the reasons I'm anxiously waiting for the fall weather to kick in is so I can wear scarves. Scarves are the quintessential cold weather accessory for many reasons. Aside from the obvious notion that scarves keep you warm on brisk days, I love how they come in so many different forms. They can be plain, patterned, wool, cotton, silk, long, short...I could go on forever. Plus, there are a million ways to rock a scarf, whether it simply hangs free, is wrapped around your neck multiple times, or is a product of your own unique creation. Scarves can be worn any which way you choose, making them perfect for everyone, regardless of style preference. While all of these characteristics make scarves great, the best part is that they can quickly alter a shirt, dress, or sweater for the better. A plain white tee can seem ordinary but transforms into a chic outfit when paired with a colorful or uniquely patterned scarf. You could wear that same white shirt everyday with a different scarf and each time your outfit would look fresh, fashionable, and new. Trust me, I've done it plenty of times throughout the laziness and stress of college.

Since some scarves can cost as much as 50 or even 100 dollars, here are some affordable, adorable options...

AE Long Ombre Crinkle Scarf 19.50



This 24 dollar Urban Outfitter scarf has a beautiful, intricate floral pattern.



This 28 dollar Urban Outfitters scarf comes in three colors, which you MUST check out. I love every single one.

This woven scarf from Forever 21 is only 6.80. They have many other options too.

She Nailed It

Even though the beautiful and unseasonable weather we've been having makes it hard to focus on fall fashion, it's still the last official day of summer, and it is inevitable that the crisp autumn breeze will quickly approach. While this sounds like a negative outlook, it is certainly not meant to be, as I love the cool fall weather and all of the colors and clothing that comes along with it.

A couple of months ago, I wrote here about the bright, funky nail polish colors that were popular over the summer. While I still love this trend, it is important to adjust your nail color to fit the season. So, save those luminous shades for May through August because, along with the fall, comes a whole new pallet for stylish, but still funky, nails.

What I love about nail polish is that it's an affordable way to accessorize. It can supplement your outfit just as well as any piece of jewelry or scarf because it always ads POP, especially when the color matches what you're wearing. It's also an expression of your personality. There are definitely expensive brands of nail polish available, but it is really not necessary to waste away your savings on them. I have splurged on 10 dollar bottles of "ruby red" and "kiss me pink" before, and it simply wasn't worth it, as the quality does not tend to be any better. When I wrote about nail polish over the summer, I referenced my favorite, good quality, affordable brand: Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Nail Color, which costs about 2.79-3 dollars a bottle, depending on where you get it (they're buy one, get one 50% off at Walgreens online). Well, luckily, the brand also carries dark, burnt shades that are perfect for the upcoming season!

Here are some of my favorite colors that remind me of autumn fashion...


"Plum Powder"
The subtle shimmer in this shade can dress up an outfit.

"Purple Pizzaz"
This color is a great way to incorporate the bright, funky style of summer nail shades into a darker, fall/winter shade.

"Celeb City"
This slate, shimmery shade is a great neutral tone that matches many outfits.

"Black Out"
Black nail polish has, of course, become popular recently, and fall and winter are the perfect times to rock
the shade. Try pairing it with a white ensemble to provide contrast.

"Red Carpet"
Dark red nail polish is a classic choice, especially
in the colder months.

"Emerald City"
I picture this shade with chunky sweaters and burnt orange and red shirts.