March Favorites

March has been such a whirlwind. I can't believe I've gone from finals on the East Coast to home for a few days in California to now studying in Italy-- so many wonderful things have happened over the past 31 days, and I know things will continue to get better in April.

Here are a few of my favorites from March:

Head to Toe Black

via Pinterest

I love the all black look (I'll be posting more about it later this week) that I have seen so many Italians rock. It is chic and sophisticated. By playing with textures and adding one bold accessory (a necklace or a scarf or a bag), you look instantly elegant. Obsessed!

Joie Ailey Leather Jacket

via Joie

In the same vein as the all black look, I am obsessed with my Joie Ailey leather jacket. I know I'll get a ton of wear out of this classic piece and think the cut is just so flattering. Love it!

Silk Scarves

via Pinterest

I have been loving adding a silk scarf to a neutral outfit. The pop of color instantly livens things up.

Dior Healthy Glow Blush

via Pinterest

I have been obsessed with the Dior Healthy Glow range for awhile, but I am especially in love with the blush- it's simply perfect for spring. The color is very bright initially, but gets much more subtle when applied (use a light hand) and blends easily. The cool blue undertones make eyes look whiter and your face look fresher all around!

Ole Henriksen Pure Truth Youth Activating Oil

via Pinterest

A few weeks ago, I got a facial after a particularly bad breakout (most likely due to a very stressful end of the term). The esthetician said my skin was pretty weak and dehydrated and recommend I use something with Vitamin C to strengthen my skin. Luckily, I had this serum at home already and began using it twice per day. It could be a total placebo effect, but my breakouts are majorly reduced even after traveling and getting less-than-ideal amounts of sleep. Great find!

Cacio e Pepe Pasta

via Pinterest

Since getting to Rome, I've tried out a new pasta dish called Cacio e Pepe. Essentially it is a type of pasta with some olive oil, cheese and lots of black pepper. Initially I wasn't sure if I would like it, but I ended up loving it. Obviously it isn't very healthy so I've only had it a couple of times since arriving in Rome but it's incredible.

Gelato

via Pinterest

I've been trying out a new gelato place every few days (somehow my sweet tooth has majorly disappeared since moving to Rome) when I'm in the mood, and I've found a few great places. At the end of my trip, I'll be posting a guide to all my favorite places in Rome including gelato.

Rome

via Pinterest

I am so happy that I decided to study abroad in Rome for a quarter. There were so many times I became nervous about the program- I am not an art history major, I barely speak italian, I was going to miss my family and boyfriend so much et cetera. However, the city itself has provided me an unparalleled educational and cultural experience that I have really enjoyed. My italian has drastically improved since I got here, I've learned about the fundamentals of Roman art and architecture throughout history and keeping in touch with my family and boyfriend has not been as difficult as I anticipated (thank you FaceTime). Feeling at home while abroad is so nice and thanks to a few visitors over the term, my real home doesn't seem so far away.

Happy Wednesday!

xoxo 

February Favorites

Can you believe February is already over? Every year it feels like this month just speeds by even though it's only 2 or 3 days shorter than the other 11 months out of the year. And while sometimes I feel like time is just rushing by me, I am excited to move into March with warmer weather and new adventures (more on that later!).

Here are some of the things that I've been loving this month:

Fashion: Leather

via Theory

I have been incorporating a lot of leather into my wardrobe lately. From leather accents on riding pants to a few new leather skirt purchases to riding boots, flats and bags, leather adds an unexpected twist to my mostly conservative outfits (aka my everyday uniform of skirt + silk blouse). I have been loving circle skirts and A line silhouettes, so playing with materials is a great way to spice things up and add some unexpected edge to an outfit.

Accessories: Layering Jewelry

via Miera T

I have always loved delicate gold jewelry (Jennifer Meyer is simply the best!) but I love it even more when I layer necklaces. Seriously, the more the merrier! I mix chain lengths and styles, but keep to the same material to keep the look classic. This also works great with bigger statement necklaces like J. Crew's jewels. I layer basically any crystal necklace with a pearl necklace, making sure that the necklaces are made of the same metal and have lengths that look nice together. Then, I have a custom look that really makes a statement!

Beauty: YSL Babydoll Mascara

For the past few years I have been obsessed with DiorShow and DiorShow New Look mascara. While I'll always love the classic DiorShow for it's build able formula and volumizing effect, YSL Babydoll Mascara has been a recent favorite. The brush is synthetic (rubber) which I surprisingly like given that I've always loved classic bristly brushes. The formula doesn't clump at all and gives me full, defined lashes in fewer swipes than DiorShow (gasp!).

Beauty: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser

Whenever I stray from Kiehl's I end up regretting it. My skin just loves how gentle Kiehl's products are, especially in this drying winter weather. I've been rotating my Kiehl's with my very potent Kate Somerville line and my skin has gotten back in balance. Yippee!

Music: Cider Sky

This band is a recent discovery of mine, although they have been around for some time. Check out their song "We Are in Love;" it is so catchy!

Music: My Latest Playlist

This month has been filled with danceable music like Viceroy, Lorde, Passion Pit and M.I.A. This playlist has been my go to for everything fro getting ready in the morning to doing homework to hanging out with friends. Enjoy!

Food: Pasta/Grain Salad

Photo & Recipe from Martha Stewart

There's a really great little farm to table restaurant near campus that has the best pasta and grain salads from lentils to black rice to orzo everything is simply delicious! And perfect for on the go.

Color of the Month: Gold

Photo via Pinterest

Until recently, I never knew weather gold or silver looked better on me. In terms of my nicest jewelry, I mostly wear silver or white gold. However, I received and started wearing a lot more gold this month and have been loving it! From sweaters to ballet flats to hardware on my bags, I am just loving all things gilded.

Miscellaneous: Celebrating

Photo via Pinterest

I felt like I was celebrating all the time this month- and there was cause for a lot of ruckus. From anniversaries to teaming up with Warby Parker to Valentine's Day (you're the best, bf!!) to working really hard in my classes, I feel like this month has been a slew of celebratory dinners, lunches and late night dance parties with friends (and my sorority sisters of course!). Every day I feel more settled on campus and even though I get homesick more than I'd like to admit- I'm so happy that I am surrounded by friends, a boyfriend and sisters who I can celebrate and who celebrate me. 

Hopefully March has just as much fun in store!

Cheers!

xoxo

Finding Inspiration

I know it has been a little quiet around here lately, but I'm happy that I am getting back into writing now. For a while, the college world was simply catching up with me and between midterms and a few doctors appointments and spending time with friends, I was simply tired and uninspired.

However, I followed some of my own advice and started flipping through magazines and making Pinterest boards to find inspiration.

Here's what is on my radar:

xoxo

January 2014 Favorites

How is January almost over already? I feel like New Year was just yesterday!

January has been a great month of making positive changes in a lot of aspects of my life (nothing to encourage change like the new year, right?). 

---Fashion---

Hunter Boot Polish / Fur Vests / Cable Knit

This month I am loving all things warm and cozy! The weather has been in the single digits on and off lately, and layering warm clothes keeps me comfortable indoors and outside. And between the slush and the salt, my rubber boots and leather flats have taken quite the beating. Luckily, Hunter Boot Polish works on both leather and rubber and leaves looking shiny and conditioned- looking just like new!

---Beauty---

Kate Somerville / Glamglow Hydramud / L'Occitane / Dior

This month has been terrible for my skin. Initially it was drying and stung whenever I put moisturizer on. However, after using Glamglow's Hydramud mask and switching over to Kate Somerville's skincare line, my breakouts are a little more under control and my face is much more moisturized. In terms of keeping my hands moisturized, I've been loving L'Occitane's classic shea butter products. And for blush, Dior's HealthyGlow looks just that- natural!

---Miscellaneous---

Farm to Table
New England is huge on farm to table fresh food. I've been obsessed with a few restaurants that use local ingredients- everything tastes delicious and is so much lighter than deep fried, sauce-covered dishes. Recent obsession: turkey, brie and apple sandwich on ciabatta. So good.

Healthy Hair
Maybe this should be under the "beauty section" but as it isn't really a product, I've listed it here. I usually love curling my hair or putting a lot of product in it to look less pin-straight, but since getting a few really good haircuts, I have been pretty obsessive about keeping my hair healthy, especially in this dry weather.  Pureology's Hydrate shampoo and conditioner have been just the trick for a lot of natural shine.

Giving Up Diet Coke

I was not so sure I was going to stick to this resolution or that it would make a huge difference in my life. I have a (terrible) sweet tooth and love all things sugary. Artificial and process sugar in large quantities is simply unhealthy and weakens the immune system (read: sickness and breakouts- yuck!). I decided to give up Diet Coke in 2014 and actually haven't slipped once. There were initially times when I really wanted it, but between sparkling and regular water, I've been hydrated and stayed away from lots of sketchy chemicals. I can't emphasize how much good I feel. I don't get that late afternoon/early evening crash anymore which is so nice and I have so much more energy. Yay!

LDF: Long Distance Friendships
This month, I felt like a lot of my friendships changed. Not only do a lot of my "home" friends go to different schools than I do, but some of my college friends (including one of my best friends) are now studying abroad. I was a little nervous for this term because she is such a big part of my life and I was going to miss all of our bizarre traditions and the fun we have together. I've missed her so much and school is definitely not the same, but through FaceTime and iMessage we have been able to stay in touch constantly (thank you technology)! In fact, I think we are possibly closer than ever. Technology has made the many long distance friendships I have much easier to maintain and I feel like I have kept in touch with people (a New Year's resolution!) a lot better than I have previously and just love that.

Happy January!
xoxo

Speed Up Your Morning

Let's be honest, getting up in the morning is hard, especially in the winter. 

My bed is so warm and the outside world is so cold and hitting the snooze button on my phone is so easy. However, I always regret spending those extra 15 minutes resisting the inevitable rather than just getting out of bed and into the shower. 

Here's how to get out of bed and out the door as fast as possible:

via Pinterest

Night before: prepare for the next day.

Read through your calendar for the next day, noting appointments and other commitments. Consider starting your to do list at night (doing this helps me clear my mind before I sleep). Then, pack your bag and pick out your outfit (accessories included). This will prevent a closet explosion in the morning and will save you a lot of time.

When the alarm goes off: hit snooze

You don't have to get up and into the shower, but sit up in your bed after you've hit snooze once and stay up. It seems like that initial wake up point is the hardest, so ease yourself into the day. Check your email or simply stretch. Once your alarm goes off a second time, get out of bed.

When you get out of bed: make your bed

Make your bed immediately. This makes me feel like I'm starting my day out organized. Also, the physical movement wakes me up a bit. Next, I put in my contacts and head to the shower.

In the shower: wash your hair first

I wash my hair before I do anything else and let the conditioner soak in while I wash my face and body. This somehow saves me a lot of time- I can shower in 3-5 minutes if need be!

Out of the shower: let your hair down

Rather than keeping my hair wrapped in a towel, I brush it out, apply products and let it air dry while I moisturize my face and get dressed. By the time I dry my hair a lot of the water is out and it takes less than 10 minutes.

Drink up

I don't eat breakfast often (bad, I know), but I always make a point of drinking a lot of water right when I get up. After 6-8 hours of not drinking anything, rehydrating is really important and makes me feel much more alert, even before I have coffee.

The last few minutes

If you finish early enough and want coffee, get it. But only if you have time. Nothing looks worse than walking into class or a meeting late because you were obviously waiting around at Starbucks. Take that extra time instead to clean up your room or add to your to do list. 

Good morning!

xoxo

 `

December Favorites

I know this post comes a little late, but here are my favorite things from December (and, well, early January):

Red

I am seriously obsessed with the color red. Because my closet is pretty monochromatic (mostly black), red is the perfect pop of color for any outfit. Be it red nails or a red coat, this vibrant hue is sure to liven up your look.

Plaid

A classic plaid scarf is quintessential winter wear- not only does it add to an outfit, but it also keeps you super warm. Lately, I've been loving (surprise) a red plaid scarf I got for Christmas. It looks great with everything! 

J. Crew Jewels

Somehow, J. Crew always gets it right when it comes to jewelry. Their statement necklaces are bold and sparkly without looking too gaudy or fake. Especially tucked under the collar of a button up shirt or peeking out from under a scarf, these necklaces add just the right amount of sparkle.

Bumble & Bumble

Bumble and Bumble hair products epitomize what every girl looks for in a hair care line: a range of products that give you the best version of your hair. Bb products can give you anything from shiny strands to lots of volume to full curls or pin straight styles. They also smell incredible- my favorites are their Straight Blow Dry Creme and Hairdresser's Invisible Oil. 

Drybar

As you possibly know, I went to Drybar to get a blowout a few weeks ago. It was incredible. Read more about the experience here.

Lattes

A completely random favorite, but I have made a switch from drinking cappuccinos to drinking lattes. Since I don't usually eat breakfast (please don't remind me how unhealthy that is), a latte definitely fills me up more than a cappuccino and also has a less intense espresso flavor that I like. Delicious!

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

I saw this movie recently and absolutely loved it. It was hilarious, quirky and sweet- somehow reminding me of 500 Days of Summer but it didn't crush my hopes at the end (seriously though, how depressing is that bench scene?!). This happy movie about finding a sense of place and purpose was based on James Thurber's short story (read it here). I would highly recommend this!

Welcome 2014 and here's to a great January!

xoxo

The Twentieth Year

Started from the bottom, now we're... 20!

Today, I turn 20 years old. Yikes. Where has the time gone?!

While 20 isn't old by any stretch of the imagination, I have officially moved out of my teens and well, onto the rest of my life. It's incredible how much has happened over the last two decades!

The last year has been my best one yet. I've grown a lot, tested my limits and met some truly special people. Things just feel so right, right now. 

20 Lessons in 20 Years

1. Embrace imperfection.

Throughout my life I've struggled with trying to do everything "right." However, in the last year especially I have realized that imperfection is interesting and wonderful. Doing everything right means living a very external life. At the end of the day, I answer to my very imperfect self. It's taken 20 years, and while I'm not totally there yet, I know I'm headed down the road of acceptance.

2. Fortune favors the bold.

One of my mom's friends told me this and it has really stuck with me. Over the past 5 years in particular, I've faced a number of challenges where I chose to take big risks. I have to say that this quote has proven itself to be true. Sometimes a big change is needed to get you moving in the right direction.

3. Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.

While I'll never be the girl who wants to go sky diving or get a tattoo, I do intentionally seek out opportunities to do things that are initially scary. Join a team for a sport you've never played before. Take interesting and challenging classes. Get coffee with people you have little in common with. Every time you move outside your comfort zone, you grow. Whether you stumble along the way doesn't really matter.

4. Success is not final, failure is not fatal.

In that same vein, both successes and failures are valuable. They teach us lessons about what works and what doesn't work. I find great comfort in knowing that both success and failure are temporary. No single action defines me.

5. You get to choose your friends. Choose wisely.

The people you surround yourself with are a reflection of you. There have been times in my life where I was surrounded by the wrong people and have felt really bad about myself. Friends should be supportive, loving and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. People who treat you poorly have no place in your life.

6. Family is, well, family.

No one will support you through the ups and downs like family- they've been there from the start! I was blessed with an incredible family who always show me how much they care. However, no one is perfect. Accept your family for who they are. Blood really is thicker than water.

7. It's okay to be irresponsible.

Letting go and having fun is important and healthy. When you have the opportunity to let loose, take advantage of it.

8. Love does not need to be tough.

If there is more hurt than happiness in a relationship, it probably isn't healthy. Right now, I am so lucky to be with someone who emphasizes celebrating and supporting each other. All relationships involve give and take, but painful sacrifice and love are not always the same thing.

9. Love always finds a way.

Real love knows no time or distance. 

10. Be kind- everyone is fighting their own battle.

My high school AP English teacher told me this and I think about it all the time. You never know what someone else is going through. Make life a little easier by spreading kindness. You'll be surprised that most people will be kind back.

11. Life's short- buy the shoes.

Celebrate often, but responsibly. Enjoy every minute of your life because as cliche as it sounds, you never know what tomorrow holds. Live in the now.

12. Be good to your body.

I think my body is hyper-sensitive to my lifestyle habits. The second I stop sleeping enough or eat at weird times or lay around all day I get sick. Exercise, eat a healthy diet and sleep a lot. Not only will you look good, but you will feel great.

13. Do one thing every day that makes you happy.

Not everything has to have a purpose. I've struggled with unproductive "downtime" before. In fact, that is partially why I started this blog. Doing things just because they make you happy is perfectly okay.

14. Don't sweat the small stuff.

Details. Details. Details. Everybody always says details are important. How can I not be stressed about the details?! Paying attention to details and stressing over details are not the same thing. I've finally started to see a bigger picture for my life, which makes the little worries seem just that- little.

15. Work hard.

My parents have always emphasized the importance of hard work. My mom says it's just a life mentality- do the best you can always. This is such a valuable life lesson. For a long time, I was able to get good grades in school without working that hard. However, because the principle of working hard was so central in my family, I developed good habits that have stayed with me my whole life.

16. Expand your mind through reading.

Read everything: books, newspapers, poetry, magazines. Play with words, sentences, paragraphs, punctuation. Nothing teaches you how to write well like reading.

17. Sleep on it.

My dad always says this to me when I'm upset. It is such a valuable piece of advice. While I don't always physically go to sleep before I deal with a problem, taking 20 or 30 minutes to just calm down (usually involves working out, writing in my journal or taking a shower) can really put the issue into perspective. Often times my so called "problems" are not problems at all.

18. Give.

My mom is huge on philanthropy and giving to those who are less fortunate than we are. While I write about (and love) fashion, my mom always emphasizes the importance of balance. It's okay to have nice things, but it is also important to give (especially time) to make the world a better place.

19. Spend time alone.

I've always thought of myself as a total extrovert. I'm friendly and outgoing. However, I recently took a personality test that told me I was an introvert because I derive my energy from within. Whether you're an introvert or extrovert, spending time alone to reflect is so beneficial. I'm obviously very into the idea of putting things into perspective. Alone time is really important for that.

20. Carpe diem.

Enough said.

Here's to another wonderful year!

xoxo

Christmas Traditions

Clearly not much has changed

It really is the most wonderful time of the year! 

Christmas Eve and Christmas day are simply the best.

My parents are both one of six children, so I have a massive, loud and completely amazing extended family. Because my family is Irish-Italian and Peruvian, we celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve, as is traditional for both cultures. On my dad's (Irish-Italian) side, we all get together before the big day to make handmade ravioli as well as a porcini mushroom sauce that we all eat on Christmas Eve. I love that we prepare everything together, emphasizing what Christmas is really about: family (and food)! We meet again on Christmas Eve for late lunch and a secret santa gift exchange between my many cousins.

Afterwards, we head over to my Grandie's house (maternal grandmother). Again, we cook as a family, this time making alfajores, traditional Peruvian cookies. I'm the oldest cousin on that side so it is so fun when I (and the other three older cousins) play with the five younger cousins who are all under five years old- crazy! After a very late dinner, we talk and listen to music, and then open presents together. Every year my Grandie's living room turns into a wrapping paper war zone with crumpled "snowballs" thrown at, well everyone, by the younger cousins. Before too long the little ones crash and we put them to bed upstairs for a sleepover.

My immediate family then heads to Midnight Mass, which brings a little peace to our Christmas Eve marathon.

Christmas day is perfectly low key for my family. We get up late and open presents followed by a delicious brunch that we prepare together. Then we watch a movie (usually Irving Berlin's White Christmas) and relax. Most years, two cousins that my brother and I are really close to come over with their parents for a delicious dinner made by my mom. The cousins usually sleep over as my birthday is the next day and the past couple of years, I've been opening my presents at midnight (talk about never-ending celebrations).

Despite the stress of preparing for the holidays, the family traditions I value so much reinforce that Christmas is special to me because I get to spend time with people I love. Thoughts of the presents under the tree or in my stocking totally disappear the second I see the faces of the people who've supported me my whole life. This is why I love Christmas so much.

And every year, it seems to get better and better.

I know this year will be no exception.

Merry Christmas!

xoxo 

Far Away Friends

I've had a really good last couple of days. Most of my friends from high school are now back home for winter break and it has been great to see them after time apart.

Two nights ago I got together with one of my closest girlfriends from high school. She's one of those people I can be completely genuine with- we can talk about anything. 

And isn't that just the best feeling?

Anyway, we had a really fun night of ice-cream-for-dinner and meeting up with a few other friends. Eventually, the whole group was talking and laughing and it felt just like we were back in 12th grade again, but somehow better. That's when I realized that these people were my true friends. 

Despite falling in and out of touch over the last year or so, my friends and I always somehow end up together like nothing has changed even though in some ways, everything has. I deeply value that my closest friends and I can just pick up our friendship right where we left off, even if we haven't talked in weeks. We feel comfortable talking about the "big stuff"- challenges, successes, the future- even if we haven't kept up with what we all do every day.

Coming home from college for the first time last fall was a little strange in terms of friendships. All of a sudden I felt like my pool of friends had shrunk and that those people I had been casual friends with were more like strangers I could no longer call. However, now I realize that college is an important test of the friendships I made while living at home.

Over the last year, I learned a really important lesson: 

I will not keep all of the friends I make. In fact, I won't want to.

We all keep a few friends from every phase in our life. These are our true friends. No amount of time or distance will crack the solid foundation these friendships were built on. In fact, it will only make them stronger. And while we grow independently, when we share our growth with our friends, our friendship grows too.

So, here's to true friends, the people who made us who we are!

xoxo

Current Obsessions

First, an explanation:

Full disclosure: I have been completely MIA on the blog for the past week as my boyfriend was visiting me from across the country. I honestly did not really want to spend time editing posts while he was here as I wanted to take advantage of every minute of the trip. This was definitely the right move. It was a wonderful week!

Anyway, back to business as usual:

Salvatore Ferragamo Smoking Slippers

I've always wanted a pair of smoking slippers but didn't think I would find a pair that A) I could pull off, B) would work with my existing wardrobe and C) be comfortable. Enter an adorable pair of black velvet smoking slippers with a gold and tortoise shell bow. Feminine, easy to wear and totally comfortable- no breaking in period required. I am sold!

Diptyque's "Baies" Candle

I will never get tired of this rose and blackcurrant scent. I keep a small candle and the matching room spray next to my bed and the scents always make me relax before I go to sleep. Plus, the simple black and white designs are very chic and look great on my night table.

Deborah Lippmann's "It's Raining Men" Nail Polish

While I typically stick to neutral nail colors like pink and mauve, I wanted to try out a bold color during my most recent visit to the nail salon. Red was the perfect choice. In fact, I'm really obsessed with the color red in general right now. A couple of months ago I purchased a pair of fire engine red rain boots and think they add the perfect pop of color to any outfit.

Alice + Olivia Skirt

Alice + Olivia is one of my favorite new clothing lines. The clothes fit so well.  I love that the line includes a lot of traditional elements but keeps pieces looking young with modern silhouettes and unexpected details. The pleated skirt I purchased is the perfect blend of traditional Scottish tartan and a contemporary short, swingy hemline. It also looks great with black tights and the aforementioned smoking slippers!

Caudalie Beauty Elixir

This is one of those totally unnecessary items that has become a very necessary part of my pre-bed routine. I mist Caudalie's beauty elixir over my face before I apply my moisturizer to make sure my skin doesn't get dry in the cold winter air. The bottle, designed by L'Wren Scott, is gorgeous and the mist smells and feels incredibly refreshing after a long day.

Madewell Field Parka

I've been looking for a cute and extra warm coat for when I return to college in New England after New Year. When I was shopping at Madewell recently, this field parka caught my eye. I absolutely love it! There is a removable fur lining inside and a detachable hood that I know will be used a lot when snow is falling heavily. Note: the coat runs a bit big so plan to go down at least one size.

The Love Affairs of Nathaniel P. by Adelle Waldman

I've been hearing great things about this book for a while now and I finally understand why. Although I'm only about halfway into the story, I've been completely sucked into the world that Waldman has crafted. Her exploration of 21st century love is witty and thought-provoking. A book review will most certainly be coming soon.

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit

I will never sleep enough. I've grown to accept it. However, my skin hasn't. I sometimes get unfortunately dark under eye circles from lack of sleep but this concealer and setting powder duo (paired with a double shot cappuccino) help me look and feel like I've slept 10 hours.

Happy Saturday!

xoxo

November Favorites

I know I'm posting this a little later than usual, but hey- better late than never, right?

November was a really fantastic month overall. I truly feel like my life is heading in the right direction and that I'm so happy with the meaningful relationships that I have. 

However, November was also a really busy month. Between finals and formals and flights back home, I felt like I was in go mode all the time. These are the things I reached for the most:

Pearls

I've been wearing a really special pair of pearl earrings I have nonstop and I can't get enough of them. First of all, pearls are timeless. Second, they go with absolutely everything. Silver? Gold? Black? White? They're perfect for any occasion.

Sparkly Tweed

This is strangely specific, but I purchased a sparkly tweed pleated skirt from Nordstrom at the beginning of September and have been wearing it a ton lately. Since then, I've also purchased a couple of sparkly tweed dresses and another skirt. Tweed is feminine and classic and paired with a little bit of shimmer, the material is youthful and fun. Obsessed!

Sarah McNamara Miracle Skin Transformer

My mom surprised me with this face mask and a bunch of other spa goodies when she came to visit me last term. I have to say this is pretty incredible. It leaves skin feeling so smooth and hydrated. It isn't really a treatment for anything (i.e. acne, hyper pigmentation, etc.) 

Deborah Lippmann Glitter Nail Lacquer
I've been loving "Today Was a Fairy Tale" as a topcoat over neutral colors such as "Modern Love" or "Chasing Pavements." 

Curled Hair

I've been in major need of a haircut (actually getting one today, yippee!) so to camouflage my undyed roots and scraggly ends I've been curling my hair and really liking it.

The xx

I've liked The xx for awhile, but recently I've just been listening to their music nonstop. I rotate that with Lorde and my ears are very happy.

Stationary
I've been into writing little notes, cards and longer letters lately so I've been going through stationary like crazy. Anything personalized is right up my alley.

Happy December!
xoxo

Farewell Fall Term

The past ten weeks have been a complete whirlwind.

Fall term has been the best quarter of my college experience by far. I feel a strong sense of place on campus and have surrounded myself with people I care about and who care about me. The past two and a half months have been filled with meaningful friendships- new and old, personal growth, plenty of laughter and fun, inspiring academic conversations and most importantly, a lot of love.

However, fall term has also been my most difficult, academically rigorous, physically and emotionally exhausting term so far. Somewhere between not sleeping more than 5 hours most nights, never making it to the gym, overextending myself in extra curricular activities and coming to the hard realization that some friendships weren't what I thought they were, I now head back to California physically sick (hi, stomach flu) and mentally drained.

But still, I am filled with such great happiness looking back on the last weeks.

This past term, I have actively sought out opportunities to move beyond my comfort zone. I have tested my limits and realized that while I can't do everything, I will always have the time and energy to pour into the things I love. I really feel that I have grown so much.

I have returned home just in time for Thanksgiving, and I now realize I have so much to be thankful for, including the incredible times that lie ahead. 

xoxo

Pinterest Accounts I Love

Pinterest is perfect. It is seriously a how to guide for almost anything from recipes to fashion to fonts to weddings to interior decorating! And it's the perfect 20 minute study break during reading period. Here are some of my favorite pinners:

A Girl, A Style

The most effortlessly chic account on Pinterest

Domaine

Inspiration for any room

Sleepy Jones

An account dedicated to cute PJs ?! I'm dreaming already.

Liz Schneider

Love Liz's take on current trends.

Lauren Wickman

Lauren Wickman pins the best graphic design ideas. Obsessed!

Blush Shop

This board is completely pink. I'm sold.

And to see all of my favorite things/my dream life follow me on Pinterest here (shameless plug, I know).

Happy (almost) Friday!

xoxo

My Favorite Instagrams

Everyone needs a little bit of inspiration. I get much of my inspiration for this blog from different social media outlets- other blogs, Pinterest, Thought Catalog, Twitter and Instagram. I love Instagram. A few of my favorite other bloggers have been posting about some of the accounts that they enjoy following, so here are a few accounts full of gorgeous photos that inspire me:

@juliahengel

@aliceandolivia

@estelleallen

@theodorefitzpatrick

@blushshop

@rachelzoe

@thepinkdiary

@sarahkjp

And don't forget to follow yours truly @prosepearlspolkadots

Happy Thursday!

xoxo