Peeptoe Ankle Strap Flatform Sandal

You know the feeling when you envision an entity but you can't seem to find it in actuality?  It happens to be a reoccurring theme in my life when it comes to shoes or clothing.  I can imagine a shoe that goes well with almost all of my outfits, and yet the shoe is like Cinderella's slipper: lost in the fairy-tale dream and only to be found after long waiting.  If I wanted to spend a thousand dollars on such a shoe, I'd have strutted just about a thousand footsteps by now.  However, waiting is a must for all good things, as the saying goes.  My fated pair is finally home.

JUMP Leather Flatform Sandals - Black from Asos (soldout)

Here's how I styled these flatforms:

QUAY Clear Reflections Shades (Elton Mirror Sunglasses) from Nasty Gal (get them here)
Long Sleeve Striped Dipped Hem T-Shirt from Sheinside (get it here)
Raw Cuff Shorts - White from YMI Jeans (get them here)

The Perfect Beige Cardigan

'So move your feet from hot pavement and into the grass, 'cause it's already passed' ~ Arcade Fire

Solid Swing Tank - Black from 2020AVE (get it here)
Short Knit Cardigan - Beige from 2020AVE (get it here)
Teardrop Loop Pendant Drop Necklace - Silver from 2020AVE (get it here)
Asymmetrical Geometric Pockets Shorts - Black from Sheinside (get them here)
Iris-01 Platform Lace Up Oxford Flat - Black from UrbanOG (soldout)

Today has been the first day it's hit the 70's this fall, so I whipped out my comfy somewhat chunky cardigan, which I think beats the typical Brandy Melville ones out there.  I originally saw it on Swaychic, but it sold out on me, so I found the exact one later on 2020AVE.  Like maple syrup to pancakes, it's my staple!

P.S. This is right before the sprinklers turned on.  What fun.

No Eye Contact Please

No Eye Contact Please Long Sleeve Top - Light Brown from Papaya (in store)

There were no face-to-face compliments on this top only because I followed the motto.  I did, however, overhear the smiles and bluntly loud observations of passersby.  What's more is I only paid $15 for so much amusement.  Must have!

These Shoes Were Made For Stalking

So I've been up and about and back to college, and it's been a while since my last post.  I've come back to discuss everyone's favorite accessory--shoes!!  Of course, don't get confused by the title; I don't stalk people, just fashion.  These are some of my newest picks and I'll tell you why:

The Mint Bedazzled Booties

Dunes-10 Rhinestone Ankle Strap Platform Wedge - Mint from UrbanOG  (soldout)

...because a little tease in the front and flashy in the back never hurt anyone! (super comfy btw)

The Moon White Dynamites

Coltrane Cutout Boot by Jeffrey Campbell - White from NastyGal (get them here)

...because white is the new black! (definitely splurged here)

The Sway Me Suede Litas

Francheska-01 Suede Lace Up Chunky Heel Platform - Blue from DWDShoes (get them here)
These are a Lita dupe / lookalike! (See the Jeffery Campbell version)

...because shoe(s) are my sunshine!

The Crypto-Creep Flatforms

Iris-01 Platform Lace Up Oxford Flat - Black from UrbanOG (soldout)

& because three creepers are better than one!

Orange You Glad It's Summer?

Frosted Floral Sunglasses from WetSeal (get them here)
Orange Ombre Teardrop Necklace from Francesca's
90's Crop Top With Long Sleeve - White from ASOS (get it here)
MINKPINK Britney Waisted Skirt from Collective Habit (get it here)

It's finally that time of year!  Summer's in the air and although it's supposed to be all about beaching it up, tanning, late nights, movies, and spending quality time with friends and family, I'm stuck working until I can get a week off for vacation.  I'm reminiscing on those childhood summers when I was able to say "I'm bored" every once in a while.  Seriously, that's a privilege to us grown (still growing, kinda) grownups.  Anyway, the connotation of summer is always supposed to be thrilling and I'm doing all I can to make it that way, even though that may not be the case.  One thing's for sure, it's fun to see all the new summer attire coming out in stores and compiling various cool and comfortable outfits.  I'm quite into orange, because it reminds me of sherbet, so I immediately fell in love with this button waisted skirt by MINKPINK.  It was super discounted and I knew it would pair well with my ombre teardrop necklace I had gotten ages ago.  Of course, I imagined to add a basic crop top (my 3 year long addiction).  I can't really see a black top with these pieces because that would be a little too Halloweenie for me.  Plus, with white, you can avoid some unnecessary heat.  Last but not least, get excited to accessorize and throw on some sweet shades.  Mine are not so out there, but the rims are floral and the tint is almost sepia, which totally wraps up the whole sunny summer look.  Since I'm trying to keep my summer as up to par as possible, I'm already eyeing July 4th, which is nearly around the corner.  I can't wait to style with schemes of red, white, and blue!  Americana, stay tuned!!

SPITFIRE Steampunk Flick Sunglasses

Steampunk Flick Sunglasses by SPITFIRE - Blue from Edge of Urge (get them here)
90's Crop Top - Black from ASOS (get it here)
Robertson High Waisted Denim Shorts - Laguna from Tobi (get them here)
Halfway Belt - Black Tobi (get it here)

What can I say about these shades? Um, FIERCE!  By far, these are my favorite eye protectors ever! I've always been searching for a pretty shade of reflective lenses, but all the ones I had always found were not the right shape, tacky, or not my style.  These lovelies by SPITFIRE (by the way, sick brand name, right?!) have made my summer, and it hasn't even officially begun yet!  I'm crazy about the blue, as well as being able to hide my eyes from passersby.  I feel a bit mysterious and like I'm one of those cool top spies or secret agents  in action movies.  Normally I don't favor round glasses, but these have definitely changed my perspective for the better!  Go check out Edge Of Urge, the chic online store where I found these; they have a ton of more fabulous finds!  As far as the outfit goes, I went for a classic cropped top and high waisted shorts look.  Here's to a summer full of unknown but crazy awesome adventures!!

Distressed Denim And Bright Bows

Top - Wilshire Low Waisted Denim Shorts - Newport from Tobi.com (get them here)
Right - MINKPINK Slasher Flick Short - Denim from Zappos.com (get it here)
Bottom -  Sunset High Waisted Denim Shorts - Malibu from Tobi.com (get them here)
Left - MINKPINK Nightmare Short - Washed Black from 6pm.com (get it here)
Fashion Bow Ties from GOjane.com (get them here)

This Spring, I came to realize that I own way too many shorts.  But it's okay because I sold the ones I knew I wouldn't miss too much to Plato's Closet (along with a ton of other clothes and accessories I had been meaning to get rid of, and I made a whopping $150!).  I'm trying to focus more on tops so that I can actually pull together a matching outfit with all these beauteous shorts.  Four that I have recently purchased are must-haves and can be paired with pretty much anything from crop tops to button ups to hoodies to even bodysuits!  The top and bottom are from Tobi.com, where I have to say I got quite a great deal for pretty darn good looking denim!  Keep in mind that if you don't see your size on Tobi.com, chances are it'll pop up and be restocked one day whether it be in a large or small quantity so be persistent and quick on ordering if you absolutely need an item! The remaining two high waisted shorties are made my one of my favorite brands: MINKPINK.  I do prefer Tobi's pricing over the latter, but for the quality of these distressed cutoffs, the price tag is almost irrelevant.  Plus, I snagged a discount for one of them from 6pm.com.  As for the tiny little bows (Carly Rae Jepson's song is now neverending in my mind), they are from GOjane.com and can be tied around the neck of a shirt or used as a hair bow.  The banana colored one is my most cherished bow for the silliest reason; it reminds me of banana popsicles, which if you enjoy banana runts, you will instantly devour!  Anyway, I have no clue why I bought so many of these bowties, for I do not have any events to wear them to, but these I'll just have to wear whenever and wherever and make into a new trend.  Soon enough Summer will be asking, "Oh you fancy huh?" and you best believe my outfit will declare, "Why yes, yes I am."

Gone Thrifting

It has been ages since I took a day off from online shopping and headed over to Goodwill or any other thrift stores that catch my eye.  Naturally, I became overexcited to see what I would encounter.  I was crossing my fingers that I would own a pair of Levi's by the end of the day, but by no means did I expect it.  Goodwill had none that fit me right, but the Zanna Jane's consignment store a few doors down had just one that was miraculously a snug fit on my hips.  They were only $6, which made me love them even more.  The flare style is a bit outdated, though, so I plan on going all DIY cutoffs on this denim.  I glanced at the Louis Vuitton coin purse on the last minute before checking out, and although they aren't the real thing, the condition is great and the cute factor is irresistibly all the same.  I added my own "D" initial charms to personalize and make glam.  Also, it was only $7 and exactly the kind of mini wallet I had been looking for.  Each of the beaded bracelets (my obsession) are colors that could go well together and with multiple outfits.  The green evil eye one is a favorite and is similar to one I already have in blue that my mom got me from Greece.  All of these were each under $4, which is a great deal compared to those you find in boutiques.  Plus, it's all for a good cause, right?   As for the Buddha necklace, it reminds me of an Om necklace I own, and for $3 how could I not snag such a thing?  I feel that every girl needs or wants a turquoise ring, including me, so I finally joined the club.  Last but not least, stripes and crop tops:  no explanation necessary.  I guess now I will check with my good friend, Goodwill before paying for retail.  My expectations might just be found!

Brandy Melville & Tobi.com!!

The top two on my favorite stores list have no doubt blown up so much in the past years.  I remember discovering Tobi.com just over a year ago and being blown away myself.  Why do I shop here more than elsewhere?  Well, first off, they offer 30% off new arrivals.  Not to mention, they add new items daily (except Sundays), items that are either not common or are cheaper than on other sites.  Tobi now offers free returns, but I have yet to become tired of any clothing or accessories I purchased there.  On the down side, since more and more people have become familiar with Tobi, the cutest of the cute usually sell out quick, like within one or a few days.  What I do is, I keep track of how many of the products are in stock, and that way I can prioritize when and which items to get first over others that will have to wait until I get myself unbroke again.  When it comes to Brandy Melville, it's definitely not a shocker as to the immeasurable craze that surrounds this brand.  It is now the store that "defines" everyone's styles, as every girl says, and I hate to say I agree.  Their pieces so simple and prices well within reason tease us females and allow us to incorporate an added touch that alters the comfortable, soft attire into a fun, fashionable outfit.  Although Brandy needs a major ego check with its increased shipping costs, they do fix damaged item issues (in an untimely manner, however) and are sometimes worth the pain.  Check out a few of my personalized outfits assembled from both trending shops to catch the fashion fever yourself:

Floppy Disk Red T-shirt from Zara
Daisies Skirt from Brandy Melville (sold out)

What's Your Nombre Dress from Tobi.com (get it here)
Annette Top - Black from Brandy Melville (sold out)

Annette Top - Haze from  Brandy Melville (sold out)
Melville Denim Shorts - Forest Green from Brandy Melville (get them here)

Caged In Blouse - Mauve from Tobi.com (get it here)
Black Shorts from Forever21
Jewelry from Brandy Melville & Gifts

What's In Your Easter Basket?

I don't usually celebrate Easter (except non-religiously when I was younger and it fell around the time of my birthday), but this year I decided to keep my mind off some stress and get creative with these little eggies.  You don't have to just stick with the coloring dye and paints.  I chose to step outside of the decorating kit box and grabbed simple markers and sharpies to make adorable and detailed designs.  My favorite is the little Despicable Me minion; it warms up my candy filled insides!  Okay, so the infinite love symbol is "inspired" by Brandy Melville, but whatever, I had fun drawing it.  Besides, I gotta represent my favorite store, right?  So this is how I spent my day, and for once, I don't mind that I didn't get to go Easter egg hunting like I used to back in the day.  This little basket is so me.  I guess that's why I was able to let loose and make pretty.  Ah, Spring, I love your vibes.

Free PINK NATION Bandeau

Although this laced bandeau is not bikini top material, it is definitely some sort of sexy.  It makes you feel sexy, that is.  I wore it by the shore because, what the heck, if it got splashed on I could just wash it anyway.  I had no intention on merely hiding it underneath barely sheer attire or loose tanks.  No, this bandeau is a beach top on its own and the hot pink graphic is super loud and beautifully contrasted against the almighty, always trendy black.  Believe it or not, this girly bandeau is FREE with any PINK purchase.  If you want to get the best deal, as I simply must, go for the cute panties so that you only pay around $10 for the underwear, bandeau, AND a secret rewards card which will grant you at least $10 to spend at Victoria's Secret (for a limited time only).  See how much you save?  Go for the free goodies when you have time, for nothing is more satisfying during shopping than feeling smart, wearing sexy, and saving bandeaux and bandeaux of bucks.

PINK NATION Bandeau from Victoria's Secret PINK (free)
Roxy Floral Rhapsody Sweetheart Bikini Pant from 6pm (get it here)

Where's Waldo?

Much like Waldo, I'm all striped out.  And again like Waldo, the beach is my new home! 

Classic Striped Floppy Hat from Forever 21 (now soldout)
Pink Nation Bandeau from Victoria's Secret PINK (free)
Striped Knit Top from Tobi.com (now soldout)
Melville Denim Shorts from Brandy Melville (get them here)

Violet Blouse

Springtime = sheer time.  We can feel the warm wind approaching, especially when we see and show more skin.  I don't know anyone who isn't pumped for the new season.  It can be any time of the year, though, and I will fall in love with every shade of purple, whether it be lilac, lavender, orchid, violet, fuchsia, magenta, or plum.  Since I'm in the process of augmenting more shirts and blouses in all sorts of pigments to my wardrobe, this top was at such a great extent of a must-have that I placed it above my Brandy Melville wishlist (which is quite a big deal).  This sheer violet halfway button up blouse is a bit of a darker shade in person than in my photos (it's closer to the store's image), but it shines through as so under the sun.  However, while you are wearing a necessary purple so pretty, the sun is not the sole source of radiance.  Roses are red, violets are blue, but gleaming the most, is the shade of you!

Mira Blouse - Violet from Necessary Clothing (get it here)

Americana Denim Cutoffs

Whether you're close to the beaches or just preparing for Spring & Summer, now's the time to begin scouting for some new and cute denim shorts.  Normally, I'm not one to advertise the American Flag on my shirts or what have you because I go for more unique designs and styles, but this pair pretty much meets smack in the middle between patriotism and extraordinary.  I unexpectedly stumbled upon these cutoffs on Forever21.com and was iffy on ordering them online due to sizing uncertainty.  Obviously it turned out okay--actually, more than okay--since the color, fit, appeal, and quality were perfection.   Even though I tend to shy away from revealing more of my thighs than necessary, I am not afraid to wear this as a high waisted piece.  If you live in the U.S. or have American pride, I more than recommend this denim essential.  The stars and stripes are calling your name, so go ahead and don't show them up...show them off!!

Americana Denim Cutoffs from Forever 21 (get them here)

Green Tiger Sweater

Green Tiger Sweater

This big guy is mean, green, and all studded up.  Animal print is so not my style and I am not first in line regarding the stud obsession, but as long as the animal print is not a mere pattern and the design is more than over-exaggerated metal, I'll give it a pass.  Give this tiger dude a pass?  I wouldn't think twice!  There are those days in which you just know your inner feisty self is about to face the world.  Granted, your style doesn't design you, yet it defines your mood.  Wear the tiger, be the tiger; wear the stud, be the stud, and so on and so forth.  I have seen multiple colors of the studded pullover (& feel free to click the websites for the coordinating items):  gray from Tobi.com and Forever21.com, orange from Shopwasteland.com, and gray/black/lime green from GOJane.com.  But what better color to add to my wardrobe than my favorite color: green!  NecessaryClothing.com also has sequined tiger sweaters and there are similar studded ones in black/white/gray from Sheinside.com. The tag brand is Rehab, but scroll down to see where I added the solid, bright, pigment green top to my cart.  Feel free to tear yourself apart.  Rawr!!

Sengenda Tiger Top from Necessary Clothing (get it here)
*Also located on Nasty Gal (here)

Sengenda Tiger Top from Necessary Clothing (get it here)
*Also located on Nasty Gal (here)

Sengenda Tiger Top from Necessary Clothing (get it here)
*Also located on Nasty Gal (here)

Sengenda Tiger Top from Necessary Clothing (get it here)
*Also located on Nasty Gal (here)

Gold Jade Ring from Mom
Oval Translucent Ring from F21 (years ago)
Nails: Black on Black 103 and Fantasy 1166 by Sinful Colors Professional

Lavender Ring from JcPenney
Silver Infinity Love Ring from Brandy Melville (get it here)
SO Gold Tone "PEACE" License Plate Bracelet from Mom

Plain Silver Ring from MomNails: Black on Black 103 and Fantasy 1166 by Sinful Colors Professional

SO Gold Tone "DREAM" License Plate Necklace from Kohl's (got it here..now soldout)

Sengenda Tiger Top from Necessary Clothing (get it here)
*Also located on Nasty Gal (here)
Melville Denim Shorts from Brandy Melville (get them here)
Lacoste Appoline SMU Sandals from 6pm (get them here)

Nanette Lepore Kaleo Top

Everything looks better sideways.  Don't you agree?  Also, does this adorbs top not make you scream for cotton candy ice cream??

OONAGH by Nanette Lepore Kaleo Top in Blue Sky/Fiesta Pink Stripe (got it here..now soldout)

Nanette Lepore Goddess One Piece Swimsuit

Take a moment when you wake up in the morning (or as you pull an all-nighter) and listen to the birds chirp chirping away.  In this moment, you are free to pause and relieve yourself from any weight or worry you may have.  Go ahead and sigh.  Sigh out all your senses but your hearing.  The birds may not speak your language, yet they can sure give you a sense of peace.  Remember:  Only when you let beauty surround you can it grow within you. ~ Dizzida

Nanette Lepore Goddess One Piece Swimsuit (get it here)
Victoria's Secret Stripe Tote

Maroon And Black

I Love You To The Moon And Back Tank (get it here)
Stoned Silver Leaf Earrings (get them here)

Are you fond of someone?  Are you fond of this top?  If so, snag this tank and share how you feel with that special someone.  February begins tomorrow.  Love is in the air!

Burgundy and Black

I have always craved for clothing with a burgundy/maroon/wine color, but never actually went out of my way to find one.  These skinny jeggings (not really jean-like, but they are quite velvety and super comfy) caught my eye while I roamed around Target on a boring Winter Break day.  I must say, I didn't have much in mind of what to wear them with at first, but then I remembered that black matches everything and if I wanted to make the outfit all about the pants, I had to grab the simplest, basic attire.  This picture was taken in December, and the warmth displayed via warm colors comes across and makes me feel as if I don't have to worry about shiver-provoking weather anytime in the near future...thank goodness!

By the way, I looked up the word, "rhododendron" because it popped in my head, yet I had no idea what it was.  Random, I know.

Juniors Xhilaration Skinny Denim in Red (Target)
Preview Boots in Champagne (get it here)
Old Black Leather Jacket (Forever 21)
Striped Long Sleeve Top (Tobi.com)