Trending for 2014: Lots of Sparkle

One of the first things I do when I wake up in the morning is check Instagram. Call me superficial or whatever, but it gives me a bit of inspiration for the day! I’ve been tracking and identifying a few key trends I’m seeing for this holiday season. Like you, I’m still figuring out what I’m going to wear for New Year’s Eve. I want to make sure I sparkle though! Luckily for me, the big trends have lots of sparkle!

The first thing on my list of sparkle, are these adorable H&M gold sequined pants. Is it just me or have you been seeing this all over the place? I have half a mind to think they’re incredibly itchy but probably worth it.

The next trend I’m eyeing are tulle skirts. My favorites are from Bliss Tulle but the one in the photo comes from Wardrobe by Dulcinea. These adorable skirts are pricey though. I’d suggest checking out Forever 21 and finding one there. I would also try it on to make sure it doesn’t make you look ridiculous. Some girls can pull this look off and others can’t. I personally cannot!

My next favorite statement right now are cuff earrings. These ones are from Bauble Bar and are the absolute cutest. The price is fairly reasonable as well. I thought the cuff trend would be a little too rock ‘n’ roll for my style but at a recent event I was at one girl really made them look feminine and flirty.

As we all know, the cute t-shirts with adorable sayings on them are ever-so popular. This ‘Cheers’ tee comes from the Couture Kitten on Etsy. I’d love to know how this girl made these fabulous shirts. They look so great with just about anything. Hint: You can totally wear one of these with the sequined pants or tulle skirt!

Finally, I have my eyes set on this fabulous clutch from Kate Spade. Sadly, it appears they don’t sell it anymore. I’m looking through Ebay to see if anyone is selling! I never thought so many girls would turn to clutches as an accessory given that they don’t hold much, but hey, at least it’s cute!

What trends have you been seeing? Let me know with a comment below!

Book Review: Cupcakes and Cashmere

During my short beach/camping trip I brought along some reading material. Since beginning college 3 years ago, I haven’t been able to just sit down and read a book without anxiety. This is the first one I’ve read for pleasure in a long time. Cupcakes and Cashmere by the lovely Emily Schuman, is a delightful book full of color and her personality. Essentially, it’s her blog in a book!

Cupcakes and Cashmere: My Thoughts

First of all, this lady is talented! I admire her zeal for life and willingness to be who she is. Her tremendous success is demonstrated through her new clothing line and endless offers from companies to collaborate with her. This leads me to my next thought: Bloggers who have had so much success have lives and budgets that, for the rest of us, are unrealistic. I cannot afford to add all the little accessories and staple pieces for each season to my wardrobe. It’s just too expensive, especially with the brands she chooses and advertises for.

The book is divided into “seasons” (summer, fall etc.) and within each season she includes on-a-budget-beauty-buys. As much as she tries, Essie is not a “budget buy” and neither is Juicy Couture perfume. Maybe for the more established adult it isn’t a big deal, but for Schuman’s younger audience it can be a budget buster.

I really did enjoy her suggestions for creating a beautiful home and entertaining. They were practical and pretty at the same time. She even teaches you how to reupholster a bench! The diversity of topics in the book is nice because there is something for everyone.

However, even though the topics range from food to clothes, her taste in clothes isn’t as broad. To be quite honest, most of the outfits she puts together are not my style or taste. Most of it is “what’s in style at the moment” where as I prefer classic pieces with a new accessory here and there. Again, this is just my preference. She gives some good tips on how to put together an outfit for every season though.

What were your thoughts on the book? What did you like or dislike? Comment below!

Cute Finds: Summer Romper!

I had a fabulous fashion find at Marshall’s today! I’ve been obsessed with finding a romper for the summer that’s light weight and also flattering. Another requirement was the price- it had to be under $15. I know, that’s a tough budget for some people but I can usually find things at great prices if I shop around enough. I was thrilled when I found this adorable romper! The label is Amber Blue (not sure what this company is but they make a cute romper!) Comment below with accessory and shoe suggestions!

~Liz

Style Inspiration: Kate Middleton

What’s in the Duchess’ Closet?

The Duchess of Cambridge has become a style icon of our generation. People scrutinize every outfit she wears. Why? Because there hasn’t been one that doesn’t look amazing on her! She’s classy, sophisticated, stylish, and wears clothing that doesn’t go out of style. She’s becoming a ‘classic’ icon similar to Audrey Hepburn or Grace Kelly. Despite having a personal stylist and shopper, she has always had taste in clothing in before marrying Prince William. What influences her amazing wardrobe? More importantly, how can we dress in a similar way? I’ve found a few key pieces that the Duchess seems to go for time and again.

1. Navy Blazer

The navy blazer is a classic and doesn’t go out of style. Not only that, it can be worn with many different outfits. It can be dressed up or dressed down. The possibilities are limitless.

2. Fitted Jeans

Jeans are a staple in anyone’s wardrobe. But do we see a lot of denim in the Duchess’? Actually, we do. However, she has taken a trend and made it her own by adopting fitted, colored jeans into her wardrobe. This is her small nod to current trends mixed with her very classic style.

3. Nude Heels

Everyone knows her go-to shoe is a nude pump. It elongates the leg and matches everything. Her frequent trips touring the world require careful packing and planning so a shoe that works with everything really lightens the load.

4. A Cocktail Dress

Kate knows a good dress! We see her in dresses more often than anything else. Having a cocktail dress that can be used multiple times and is neutral in color is nice a addition to any closet. Each time you wear it change up the accessories for a fresh look!

5. A Striped Shirt

She’s been wearing these since before marrying Prince William. They well with the navy blazer she loves so much and does a lot for the classic, preppy look she embodies. Stripes can be problematic for some people, but not for Kate. Her slender figure allows her to wear almost anything she wants to.