Sun’s Out, Buns Out: what to bring in your beach bag

Photo credit: Mary Fortier
(Bikini top & bottom: Victoria’s Secret)

1. Sun Protection

The sun is out and buns are out, but while you are toasting those buns don’t forget about sunscreen. Don’t mess around with your skin. Yes, a deep tan looks great, but so does youthful skin. Minimize the skin’s aging process by wearing and reapplying at least spf 50. CeraVe makes a great oil-free sunscreen that is designed specifically for the face. Oil-free sunscreen is great for people with acne-prone skin and reduces shine. As for the body, go straight for spf 70 to avoid a sunburn all together (you will surprisingly still get tan!). A floppy beach hat can double as a glamorous accessory and protection form the sun’s rays.

Photo Credit: Mary Fortier
(Hat: Marshall’s, Bikini top & bottom: Victoria’s Secret; Swim cover-up: Victoria’s Secret; Sunglasses: Kohl’s)

2. Mini-Makeup Kit

Aside from protection against the sun, I bring my trusty sunglasses & a hardshell carry case. It’s also handy to bring along a mini makeup emergency kit if you are going to be beaching it up all day. Things to keep inside your mini makeup bag are hair elastics, mini-brush, spf chapstick, facial powder, and deodorant. These essentials will be your life-line for the day and keep you from looking (and smelling) like a hot mess!

Photo credit: Mary Fortier
(Bikini top & bottom: Victoria’s Secret)

3. Literature

What is going to the beach without a good read? Bring a thrilling page-turner or a stack of your favorite magazines to read while you stay hydrated with bottled water. Surprisingly, the library (yes, the place with all the books that no one really steps foot in anymore) maintains a collection of all different types of magazines. Before you hit the road to the beach, dare to enter your local library and check out some recent issues of Glamour & Vogue. (Shoutout to my girl, Amy Schumer, for being featured in Glamour’s August 2015 issue, for sharing hilarious & relatable situations, and for always being her unapologetic self).

Photo credit: Mary Fortier
(Bikini top & bottom: Victoria’s Secret; Sunglasses: Kohl’s)

4. Confidence

Lastly, don’t forget to bring confidence and yo fine self.

Back To Basics

Photo credit: Mary Fortier ( T-shirt: Brandy Melville; Metal bracelets: Alex & Ani; Beaded bracelet: The Paper Store; Necklace: Five Below)

I have recently started loving Brandy Melville’s plethora of basic clothing pieces (especially since many are made out of natural cotton). As a college student with limited dorm closet space, such as myself, it is important to pick out basic pieces that can be easily mixed and matched. Containing a wardrobe with plain neutral colors, such as black and white, allows for the creation of many different outfit options. To add life to the outfit, seasonal colors can be added to the look. Right now, it is still August so I chose to add bright turquoise sandals and a colorful beaded bracelet to my otherwise black and white outfit.

Photo credit: Mary Fortier (T-shirt: Brandy Melville; Shorts: Abercombie & Fitch; Sandals: Barney’s New York; Metal bracelets: Alex & Ani; Beaded bracelet: The Paper Store; Necklace: Five Below)

These basic pieces, the white Brandy Melville t-shirt and black crochet shorts, can be transitioned into early fall. To fit this look for autumn, swap out the turquoise Italian leather sandals for a more neutral color such as tan or black. Next, add either a denim jacket or a fall-colored cardigan (such as burgundy or olive).

Photo credit: Mary Fortier
(T-shirt: Brandy Melville; Shorts: Abercombie & Fitch; Sandals: Barney’s New York; Metal bracelets: Alex & Ani; Beaded bracelet: The Paper Store; Necklace: Five Below)

While it is great to have convenient plain pieces that can be easily paired with one another, convenience can be boring. Do not exile prints and patterns from your closet. They can bring a fun and playful personality to an outfit. Keeping a few patterned pieces handy in your wardrobe allows for even more variety when paired with a basic. People, other than yourself, may not even realize that you are wearing a repeat piece if you re-style it into a creative new look.

Photo credit: Mary Fortier
(T-shirt: Brandy Melville; Metal bracelets: Alex & Ani; Beaded bracelet: The Paper Store; Necklace: Five Below)

Wondering how else the pieces in this look could be re-syled? Here are a few ideas for mixing, matching, and transitioning into pumpkin-spice season:

• black shorts + striped crop top + turquoise sandals = summer
• white t-shirt + patterned maxi skirt  + neutral sandals = summer/fall
• black shorts + pullover sweater + neutral sandals = summer/fall
• white t-shirt + jeans + cardigan + boots = fall

Photo credit: Mary Fortier
(T-shirt: Brandy Melville; Metal bracelets: Alex & Ani; Beaded bracelet: The Paper Store; Necklace: Five Below)

Straps, Silhouettes, & A Little Black Dress

Photo credit: Gina Chu
(Dress: James Perse; Bandeau: Nordstrom Rack; Handbag: Marc Jacobs; Sandals: Tommy Hilfiger; Bracelets: Alex & Ani)

A LBD (little black dress) can never fail. It offers endless possibilities, doubling as casual and formal wear. I styled my LBD for a casual summer night with strappy gold sandals, a light green lace bandeau bra, and cross-body handbag. However, this James Perse could be dressed up with a pair of heels, swipe of lipstick, and a dazzling statement necklace.

Photo credit: Gina Chu (Dress: James Perse; Bandeau: Nordstrom Rack; Handbag: Marc Jacobs; Sandals: Tommy Hilfiger; Bracelets: Alex & Ani)

One fashion trend carried over from fall 2014 that I have continued to love is hardware. Metal hardware brings forth a richness to any outfit. I like the metal hardware matching if there are many pieces that contain hardware. For example, gold buttons on a jacket paired with a gold watch can look more put together than gold buttons paired with a silver watch. For this look, I matched the gold metal hardware on my sandals to the hardware on my purse and a gold Alex & Ani bracelet. Matching hardware streamlines a look and provides an instant chic factor.

Photo credit: Gina Chu (Dress: James Perse; Bandeau: Nordstrom Rack; Handbag: Marc Jacobs; Sandals: Tommy Hilfiger; Bracelets: Alex & Ani)

Do you ever have difficulty deciding which color metal to wear? I have found that silver works best with cool skin tones and gold compliments warm skin tones. I would also like to point out that there is an exception to this matching metal rule that I mentioned before! Different colored metals can be mixed and matched to provide interest and be the main statement of the outfit. It is important to not overdo chunky metals because it can be overpowering to one’s frame, so I like to stick to either one bold metal piece, or a few delicate metal pieces to maintain balance.  For a care-free night in the city with my LBD as my statement piece, I opted with minimal jewelry that wouldn’t steal the LBD’s show: two delicate bracelets (one gold & one silver).

Photo credit: Gina Chu (Dress: James Perse; Bandeau: Nordstrom Rack; Handbag: Marc Jacobs; Sandals: Tommy Hilfiger; Bracelets: Alex & Ani)

Breezy Summer Days (and a quick op ed on Abercrombie & Fitch)

Photo credit: Sarah von Oldenburg
(Hat: Target; Crop top: PacSun; Skirt: Abercrombie & Fitch; Sunglasses: Kohl’s; Flip Flops: A&E; Necklace: Barney’s New York; Bracelet: Alex & Ani; Ring: Market in London; Bracelet: Nordstrom)

Beautiful summer days call for light and airy fabrics. It has been ages since I dare to enter the dark, loud, over-branded and intensely aroma-filled place that people call Abercrombie & Fitch. However, this maxi skirt caught my eye in the window display and it happened to be the one maxi skirt that was the perfect length for my 5’2” stature. I sense that Abercrombie is attempting to shift their brand away from sex and customer advertisement to something more subtle. This branding shift is still not yet achieved, nor am I a return Abercrombie & Fitch fanatic, but I still admire the laid back and beachy vibe that the company is inspired by.

Photo credit: Sarah von Oldenburg
(Hat: Target; Crop top: PacSun; Skirt: Abercrombie & Fitch; Sunglasses: Kohl’s; Necklace: Barney’s New York; Bracelet: Alex & Ani; Ring: Market in London; Bracelet: Nordstrom)

Just like the effortless beauty of nature, I like to keep my style simple and casual. I combine classic pieces such as leather sandals or a denim jacket with a more trendy piece, such as a crop top or maxi skirt. I keep my makeup natural, using a tinted moisturizer with SPF to take care of my skin in the sun. A summer hat adds extra protection against the rays as well, all while acting as a cute accessory. I often find that it is hats that can pull an outfit together!

Photo credit: Sarah von Oldenburg
(Crop top: PacSun; Necklace: Barney’s New York; Ring: Market in London)

Photo credit: Sarah von Oldenburg (Denim jacket: A&E; Skirt: Abercrombie & Fitch; Bracelet: Alex & Ani; Bracelet: Nordstrom)

Taking more inspiration from nature, I channeled the simplistic beauty of the beach into my jewelry choices. This Alex & Ani bracelet features a pearl and shell, while my skirt’s pattern mimics the look of the ocean floor. On really hot summer days, a chunky statement necklace can feel heavy so I opt for a light minimalist look.

Photo credit: Sarah von Oldenburg
(Hat: Target; Crop top: PacSun; Denim jacket: A&E; Sunglasses: Kohl’s; Necklace: Barney’s New York; Bracelet: Alex & Ani; Ring: Market in London; Bracelet: Nordstrom; Skirt: Abercrombie & Fitch; Flip flops: A&E)

A classic light wash denim jacket is great for breezy summer days, providing a light layer between you and the wind. To me, summer is about enjoying nature. I like natural fabrics such as cotton and leather because they allow my skin to breathe and keep cool. During this time of the year, I try to stop myself from buying fabrics such as polyester. (Side note: why is it so hard to find cotton clothing?)

Photo credit: Sarah von Oldenburg (Hat: Target; Crop top: PacSun; Denim jacket: A&E; Sunglasses: Kohl’s; Necklace: Barney’s New York; Bracelet: Alex & Ani; Ring: Market in London; Bracelet: Nordstrom; Skirt: Abercrombie & Fitch; Flip flops: A&E)

Photo credit: Sarah von Oldenburg (Hat: Target; Crop top: PacSun; Sunglasses: Kohl’s; Necklace: Barney’s New York; Bracelet: Alex & Ani; Ring: Market in London; Bracelet: Nordstrom; Skirt: Abercrombie & Fitch; Flip flops: A&E)

Where do you find your inspiration for summer outfit ideas? Also, if you know any cute stores that carry cotton clothing, please comment! Enjoy the beautiful weather 🙂

The Bohemian Bostonian

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Hat: H&M, Top: Urban Outfitters, Necklace: Bandanna, Bracelet: Alex & Ani, Bracelet: Nordstrom, Ring: from a market in London, Skirt: Forever 21)

The sun is finally making an appearance in Boston, so I made the most of the sunny day by exploring my own neighborhood. My friend, Andrea, and I went to one our favorite places for a healthy bite to eat: Sweet Green, a restaurant with all different kinds of delicious salads. After satisfying our tummies, we went on to explore the beautiful old-time cobble stone streets of Beacon Hill and stop by the oh-so-famous Acorn Street.

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Hat: H&M, Shirt: Urban Outfitters, Necklace: Bandanna, Bracelet: Alex & Ani, Bracelet: Nordstrom)

There is something about the sunny weather that makes people a lot happier. I channel this care-free vibe in my outfit for one of the first sunny days of the season.  Much like the cobble stone streets of Beacon Hill, my unique accessories provide character. My jewelry’s rustic metals and hat’s leather give a bohemian feel, utilizing natural elements.

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Hat: H&M, Top: Urban Outfitters, Necklace: Bandanna, Bracelet: Alex & Ani, Bracelet: Nordstrom, Ring: from a market in London, Skirt: Forever 21, Tights: Vera Wang, Boots: Kohl’s)

My top and skirt are also made of a natural element: cotton. Cotton is an excellent material for warm weather, allowing one’s skin to breathe. While tights are typically not the most comfortable, this outfit was beyond comfy! I credit this to the quality material of my top and skirt. After wearing this outfit, I definitely want to buy more cotton-made clothing for the summer.

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Hat: H&M, Top: Urban Outfitters, Necklace: Bandanna, Bracelet: Alex & Ani, Bracelet: Nordstrom, Ring: from a market in London, Skirt: Forever 21)

When I think of the term “bohemian”, I think of earthy tones, light & airy fabrics, and distinctive embellishments that remain simple. I use mainly neutral colors in my outfit to achieve this look, while taking the teal from my skirt’s floral pattern and using it as an accent color. While my accessories are simple and small, they stand out as distinctive pieces.

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Top: Urban Outfitters, Skirt: Forever 21, Necklace: Bandanna, Bracelet: Alex & Ani, Bracelet: Nordstrom, Ring: from a market in London)

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Hat: H&M, Shirt: Urban Outfitters, Necklace: Bandanna, Bracelet: Alex & Ani, Bracelet: Nordstrom)

The fun part about sporting the bohemian look is that it doesn’t have to be matchy-matchy. A boho vibe is laid-back and relaxed. To give off an effortless energy, throw on a mixture of your favorite dainty accessories!

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Hat: H&M, Shirt: Urban Outfitters, Necklace: Bandanna)

Continuing with the natural look, I kept my makeup simple and utilized a brown color palette. I like using brown eyeliner and mascara for everyday makeup to keep the look from looking too stark. As for lips, I enjoy tinted lip balm because they give lips natural color all while keeping them moisturized.

Photo credit: Andrea Barriga (Hat: H&M, Shirt: Urban Outfitters, Necklace: Bandanna)

Let me know in the comments if there is a specific post you would like me to write or if you would like to see a makeup look!

Transitioning to Spring

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga [Hat: H&M, Watch: Michael Kors, Jacket: J.Crew, Sweater: Hollister, Tank: Kohl’s, Leggings: Cynthia Rowley, Handbag: Marc Jacobs]

It may be hard to believe, especially in the snowy city of Boston, but spring is arriving. Spring is playing a bit hard to get, teasing us with a day’s glimpse of sunshine and a subtle peak in temperature. The transition to spring can be difficult when you cannot simply trade in your snow boots for a pair of flip flops or your puffer for a new bikini.

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga [Hat: H&M, Watch: Michael Kors, Jacket: J.Crew, Sweater: Hollister, Tank: Kohl’s, Leggings: Cynthia Rowley, Handbag: Marc Jacobs, Boots: Nordstrom]

You can start by swapping out your thick winter coat for a light spring jacket, like this field jacket from J.Crew or a jean jacket. In the northeast, it is still a bit chilly this time of the year to go without an extra layer of warmth. This is why layers are your friend! The changing seasons can create inconsistent temperatures. Layers can be added or taken off, allowing you to adjust to the temperature.

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga

[Jacket: J.Crew, Sweater: Hollister, Tank: Kohl’s, Leggings: Cynthia Rowley, Handbag: Marc Jacobs, Boots: Nordstrom]

While it is still a little early to show some skin, it isn’t too soon to start adding cheery prints to your wardrobe. Floral is a seller go-to-spring pattern. I styled my outfit with floral leggings from Cynthia Rowley, but you can add floral elements in other ways too. For example, a colorful floral scarf can bring a spring vibe to an outfit as well. While I am sometimes regrettably a big fan of the color black , the color white brightens up an outfit and screams “warm weather”. I added an airy white pullover sweater to bring out the white flowers in my leggings. By matching my outfit with the lighter color in the pattern and making the colors pop, I achieve a more spring oriented look than I would by sticking to the darker colors in the print.

Pop Art

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga (Sweater: J.Crew, Boots: Barney’s New York, Pants: J.Crew, Colored Bracelet: J.Crew, Gold Bracelet: Barney’s New York, Watch: Michael Kors, Scarf: unknown – gift, Handbag: Barney’s New York,)

We have all heard the saying “fashion is art”. This may be stereotypical to say, but it is true. Sometimes I like to think of a black outfit as a blank canvas, or a base to a full look. Splashing on colors completes the outfit, bringing it full circle. Pops of colors are what keep the outfit fun, exciting, and unique. A scarf, bracelet, statement necklace, handbag, or even a pair of bold colored shoes can be used as colorful additions to an outfit.

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga (Sweater: J.Crew, Pants: J.Crew, Colored Bracelet: J.Crew, Gold Bracelet: Barney’s New York, Watch: Michael Kors, Handbag: Barney’s New York)

The majority of my outfit is black. However, I play with bold colors and maintain a familiar color palette. The studded cobalt blue leather handbag is the first color I added to my outfit. I used that color to inspire me further, adding a patterned scarf with hints of that same shade of blue. Lastly, I put on gold and colored bracelets along with my go-to gold watch.

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga (Sweater: J.Crew, Boots: Barney’s New York, Pants: J.Crew, Colored Bracelet: J.Crew, Gold Bracelet: Barney’s New York, Watch: Michael Kors, Handbag: Barney’s New York,)

Having a variety of textures in an outfit can also keep the outfit interesting. The combination of materials, such as leather, metal studs, and a soft sweater provides enough contrast to keep a black outfit from being too bland. The scarf can be taken off for a more minimalistic look, allowing one bold colored piece to stand out and make a statement.

Girl in the City

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga (Jacket: Barney’s New York, Graphic T-shirt: Old Navy, Blazer: Kohl’s, Necklace: J.Crew, Sunglasses: Ray Ban, Handbag: Michael Kors, Gloves: Ralph Lauren)

Hello readers! For my first post, as a girl in the city, I’d like to talk a bit about city street style. The key to achieving a metropolitan look is combining classic and trendy pieces. Touches of leather, gold, and studs are destined to give off a sophisticated urban vibe.

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga (Coat: Barney’s New York, Graphic T-shirt: Old Navy, Blazer: Kohl’s, Handbag: Michael Kors, Gloves: Ralph Lauren, Tights: CVS, Boots: Kohl’s, Necklace: J.Crew, Skirt: Express, Bracelet: Barney’s New York, Watch: Michael Kors)

As a city-dweller, one must learn to dress appropriately for the weather. Sometimes the brutal Boston weather can triumph over the fashion world, but I have found that dressing in warm layers can maintain style and reduce the marshmallow effect. The classic pieces of my outfit include black leather riding boots, a black structured Michael Kors handbag, a black blazer, and black leather gloves with gold buttons. Although it is common, black is a great go-to-color because it guaranteed to make you look polished and chic. A statement necklace, such as this chunky diamond necklace, can dress up an outfit and tie an outfit together. The trendy element to my outfit, a graphic “J’adore”  t-shirt, adds some expression and interest to an otherwise plain outfit. A graphic t-shirt can make an outfit unique and display your personality (your favorite band, or the fact the you know guac is extra).

Photo Credit: Andrea Barriga (Blazer: Kohl’s, Graphic T-shirt: Old Navy, Watch: Michael Kors, Bracelet: Barney’s New York, Earrings: Lord & Taylor, Sunglasses: Ray Ban)

These versatile layers allow for a comfortable stop in a local coffee shop. A graphic t-shirt and a blazer, as seen in this outfit, can be worn to a more casual work environment. The accessories, such as a bold watch and statement necklace, are what will dress up the outfit and keep the look put together. Gold tones will give your look a rich classic feel. The metropolitan dresser knows when to invest in quality pieces and when to skimp on other items, such as a graphic t-shirt.