New Arrivals: Lilly Pulitzer

Like many, I had no luck with Lilly for Target. Maybe it was a blessing in disguise, but after waiting in line at my local Target early on a Sunday morning, I was less than thrilled when I wasn't able to score any pieces. But hey, Lilly's perfectly-timed release of new arrivals came out today, and I'm loving everything. I'm glad to see my favorite First Impressions print make its way on to some dresses (though truth be told, I'm a bigger fan of the pink print than the new yellow version) and a few fun new silhouettes. Scroll through the widget above to check out the pieces I'm loving!

Countdown to Graduation

It's happening. The moment I've been simultaneously waiting for and dreading - graduation. Making predictions five weeks ahead of commencement, I know it will be a bittersweet end to a chapter in my life I've genuinely enjoyed. While the next stage in my life is abundantly full of unknowns, I'm trying to fully embrace the short time I have left in college. All the feels, man.

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On a lighter note, commencement brings with it a host of fun traditions. Decorating a cap, choosing an outfit, graduation parties and of course, the ceremony itself. I've got my eye set on this dress (and this one, too) to wear to the ceremony. While I haven't chosen a dress yet, I'm weary of styles that might look dated ten years from now. I think I'll opt for a classic silhouette in a solid color - a safe bet that will go with just about anything. Check out some of my favorite picks above!

April Showers

School of Education
University of Wisconsin 

You know what they say... April showers bring May flowers. At least that's what I'm hoping. What I like to call the "rainy season" started this week, bringing untamable hair and muddy ground in tow. It's always a challenge for me to dress for this weather. On one hand, I've finally been able to ditch my winter parka and want to break my spring clothes out of the closet. On the other hand, when it's raining cats and dogs, all I want to do is stay cozied up in my favorite pajamas. Today exemplified that constant struggle. 

Despite the rain, how pretty is campus? I used the weather to take full advantage of wearing my favorite Lululemon leggings (similar) to class, and finished my outfit by sporting my Hunter boots and North Face rain jacket. I may or may not have accidentally ended up looking like a trash bag in my all-black ensemble (oops). Oh Wisconsin, you always keep me on my toes. 

J.Crew Sale

I love a good J.Crew sale. The sale going on right now? Trust me, it's a good one. The 50% off final sale styles is back, along with 40% off newer spring sale styles and 25% off select in-season items. Use the code "SHOPNOW" to take advantage of these killer deals. Check out my top three sale picks!

• Striped Eyelet Dress: it is my belief that one can never have too many little white dresses. I love the A-line silhouette and the eyelet design gives the dress fun visual texture. 
•  Drapey Double-Twill Skirt: I've had my eye on this skirt for weeks, and now it's finally on sale. You bet I'm snatching this up! It's a style that can be dressed up or down, and I'm all about the comfort the elastic waistband and thick polyester provide. 
• Mixed Cable Sweater: this might be the most perfect chunky knit oversized fisherman-style sweater I've ever seen. A winter staple, it could easily be thrown over another top during a chilly summer evening. 

Everyday Jewelry

I wear jewelry everyday and I find myself reaching for the same pieces more often than others. Pearl studs are my go-to earrings. They’re classic, polished, and work well with any outfit. For daily wear, I usually sport a pair of faux pearls. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I wore a pair of earrings that weren’t pearl studs. For special occasions, I break out my favorite pair of saltwater pearls that are usually kept in hibernation. Even though I usually reach for pearls, I’ve had my eye on this pair of Tiffany & Co. earrings forever. Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, right?

Speaking of Tiffany & Co., another piece I wear daily is my Tiffany tag bracelet. I received this bracelet as a gift in high school from my parents, and unfortunately, the exact style is no longer made (see updated style here – the new version varies only slightly from the old). The chain link bracelet is a timeless piece that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for layering or wearing on its own. I also love the David Yurman two-tone link bracelet. You can never go wrong with simple pieces!

The last piece I wear daily is my David Yurman Petite Albion Ring. It’s been posted a time or two on my Instagram and mentioned before in previous posts. This is hands-down my favorite piece that I own. It’s an elegant, yet simple, classic style that looks perfect on the hand. Do you see a trend here? I’m all about classic, timeless pieces! I tend to reach for dainty and elegant jewelry over trendy costume jewelry or statement necklaces. Don’t get me wrong, I do own plenty of statement necklaces! I just think they’re better suited for a night out than at the office or in class.

I can’t forget to mention my trusty Michael Kors watch. I have the rose gold Dylan style (currently on sale!) that I wear when I’m going for a more casual look. I like oversized boyfriend style watches, so this was a perfect pick. The rose gold is a beautiful hue and really compliments many looks. I “store” most of my everyday jewelry (except my Yurman ring) in this pretty catch-all dish that I picked up last summer. It’s such a fun (and practical) way to display and keep the pieces I reach for often!

Off topic, but let’s talk March Madness! I’ve got to throw in a shout-out to my men’s basketball team. The University of Wisconsin Badgers are no longer Sweet, we’re Elite! This week my boys pulled out a grueling win against the University of North Carolina in the Sweet Sixteen round of the tournament. Now we’re Elite Eight bound! So proud of my team for all of the hard work they’ve put in this season. Who are you rooting for?

Rebecca Minkoff Finds

I’ve never been handbag gal. I’ll be the first to admit that if you peek in my closet, you wouldn’t believe me. But, it’s true. I’ve always opted for smaller options, like clutches and wristlets, and they’ve served me well. Sometimes, though, you just need a great bag to pull an outfit together. Of course, sometimes you’ve got to have somewhere to stash a wallet, lipstick and sunglasses. I’ve been wearing this Rebecca Minkoff bag on repeat lately. The color goes with everything, and the super soft leather is absolutely gorgeous. I opted for the Mini M.A.C. over the full-size M.A.C. and have been happy with the size. It’s just big enough to store all of the essentials and compliments an outfit without being too large or overwhelming.

I also picked up this bag while I was at it. The Mini Quilted Affair is perfect for a night out, and again, the quality is impeccable. It’s reminiscent of a quilted Chanel, but at a more affordable price point. I opted for gold hardware on both of my bags, but Rebecca Minkoff offers a variety of different options, including silver, rosegold, gunmetal and black. Both of my options are currently on sale, making it the perfect time to order if you’re in the market. There are always some good finds on the Rebecca Minkoff Sale page, too!

Looks I'm Loving: Vineyard Vines

Finally, milder weather has hit the Midwest! With the new season right around the corner, I’ve been scouring my favorite sites for new pieces to add to my spring and summer collection. This is where Vineyard Vines comes in. Can we talk about how great the new spring collection is? Well, it’s great. Especially the new Kentucky Derby pieces – perfect. I have eyes on thissophisticated little white dress, which would be great for Easter, summer, and of course, the Derby.

Another look I’m loving is this bright pink shift dress. It’s such a fun pattern, and I love the cut. Most days you’ll catch me wearing neutrals, but I’d be more than willing to add this pop of color to my closet!

While we’re on the topic of neutrals, I just scored an amazing deal on a new Shep Shirt. I snagged this quilted Shep Shirt for under $70 – no, seriously. I wasn’t kidding when I said I got a great deal! There are some great finds right now in the Vineyard Vines sale section. Plus, use the code “THINKSPRING” for an additional 30% off of the already reduced prices. There’s a handful of Shep Shirts, sweaters, tunics, dresses and just about everything in between. While usually I’d think about adding a new Shep Shirt to my closet in the fall or winter, they’re great for those cooler summer nights, too.

And of course, we can’t talk about bright dresses and leave Jack Rogers out of the conversation. I’m so excited Jack Rogers introduced the new Capri Sandal! I love the classic look of this shoe, and they’ve finally incorporated a (much needed) cushioned footbed into a pair of their sandals for extra comfort. I’ll be snagging a pair in platinum this spring, which will go well with just about anything.

What warm-weather looks are you loving right now?

Beauty Bits: Spring Nail Shades

There’s no more denying it – I’m itching for spring. This week I took a small (but notable) jump in committing to warmer weather. It may be early March, but I broke out my “spring” polishes. I’m sporting this neutral Essie color now, because it might be a tad too early to commit to a bright pink.

I’m a big proponent of CND Shellac (see this post for details). Sadly, I haven’t had the time to pop back into the salon for a new manicure. What’s worse, my busy semester won’t allow for regular trips 40 minutes off campus to my favorite salon (I know, I know. Trust me, the drive is well worth it!). So, it looks like I’ll be resorting back to regular polish for a while. But hey, change is good, right? After some digging, I managed to reunite with some of fun my go-to polishes.

When I’m not wearing Shellac, OPI is my next tried and true. In the warmer months, I find myself reaching for a few colors regularly. OPI’s Vodka & Caviar holds my #1 spot. Unfortunately for me, it seems this fun (yet polished) red color has been discontinued. Next up is OPI’s Hot & Spicy. This is such a great orange hue. It’s not a true orange, and it’s not a loud in-your-face color, either. It’s got just the right amount of kick to add some pep to your step! Finally, when I’m looking for something a little more muted, but still fun, I swipe on a few coats of OPI’s Pink Friday. This gorgeous baby pink has the perfect amount of pigment to qualify as a great wear-with-anything color. It’s light and subtle, but not too subtle.

Looks I'm Lusting

Finally, it’s March, and spring is just around the corner. I’ve seemingly grown immune to the frigid winter weather we’ve had in Wisconsin, but toting around a parka, scarf and mittens is getting old. With the arrival of J.Crew’s newest Style Guide, I’ve been itching to dig out some spring styles from my closet. But of course, what’s a new season without some wardrobe updates? Today I’m sharing some spring-inspired pieces I’m hoping to add to my wardrobe.

Last fall, I was dying to get my hands on a Barbour Beadnell jacket. I managed to convince myself to hold off on the purchase, because I didn’t really need a new transitional jacket. But now I need a new transitional jacket! Funny how that works. I’ve also had my eye on the Barbour Summer Quilted Beadnell. I love both of the jackets, so it’s going to be a tough choice!

Basics are always a necessity, no matter the season. I need to add a few more to my closet. I love Gap’s Supersoft Crewneck Long-Sleeve Tee. I’ll definitely be adding more colors to my closet. I’ve also had my eye on this Saint James Tee. It’s a bit pricey for a basic tee, but it’s a classic, as is Saint James. The jury is out on this one.

I’ve always been a fan of quarter zips, so naturally, I’ve been hoping to add a Vineyard Vines Shep Shirt to my closet for a while now. No time like the present to add this number into my arsenal. I love the subtle stitching on the shoulder, and I always find myself reaching for quarter zips in my closet. Often times, Vineyard Vines introduces a Shep Shirt style with a gingham pattern on the shoulders, especially around the summer months. I’m definitely keeping an eye out for one of those, too. Speaking of gingham, that’s another item on my list. I’ve got thisJ.Crew Factory Gingham Button-Down and love it. I’m in the market for some pastel gingham, a perfect addition for spring!

Currently Coveting

Today I thought I’d share some of the items piling up on my “coveting” board on Pinterest… aka my ever-growing wish list. I’ll get right into it!

I’ve had my eye on a couple different perfect-for-spring scents. I’ve narrowed it down to three crisp, refreshing, floral perfumes. I’ve been wearing a sample of Kate Spade Twirl I received in a past Birchbox on repeat lately. This is an older scent and is becoming increasingly harder to find – meaning I’ll have to snag a bottle soon before it’s gone. I also love the sophisticated smell of D&G 3 L’IMPERATRICE. It’s one I know I’ll have to add to my collection. Finally, I’ve been dying to get my hands on this Carven L’Eau de Toilette. Unfortunately, it’s not sold in-store at any retailers in my area, but I’ve heard rave reviews. I’ve been thinking about taking the plunge and purchasing it. Sephora has the best return policy ever, essentially making the purchase risk-free.

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Next up I’m talking David Yurman… This could get me into a bit of trouble. I love the classic-American style of Yurman cable pieces. I wear my Petite Albion Ring in hampton blue topaz everyday. I’ve had my eye on the matching cable cuff and a pearl end-cap cable cuff, too. It’s a firm belief of mine that one can never go wrong with pearls – classic, understated and elegant. I’m also obsessed with a couple overlapping cable-inspired rings. The single-loop diamond Labyrinth ring is stunning and the similar x crossover ring with diamonds is another classic. Like the perfumes, I really can’t decide what piece to invest in next. Looks like I’ve got some decisions to make!

Finally, I’ve been in the market for a good flannel. I’m not a fan of chest pockets which seems to eliminate any option I come across. I’ve found a couple cute J.Crew pieces, but in my experience, J.Crew flannel items are not “true” flannel – rather, a thinner cotton material. I’m looking for the all-out lumberjack style. Have suggestions? Send them my way!

Semester Survival Guide

It’s that time again – the beginning of spring semester. After squeezing a couple years of college under my belt, I think I’ve finally mastered how to comfortably survive… My last semester in college. Too little too late? Maybe. Alas, I figured I’d share my wisdom (or lack thereof). Keep reading for some items I’ve deemed essential to surviving!

1. Camelbak: during my college experience, I’ve found that carrying around a water bottle has become a non-negotiable. Between rushing from class, to work, to internships and meetings, there’s not always a good time or place to stop and grab a bottle of water. Plus, carrying a reusable bottle is environmentally friendly. After trying, losing and destroying a handful of reusable water bottles, I keep buying Camelbak products. I’m hooked on the drinking spout. Love it!

2. Body butter: lotion, body butter, cream, you name it. You’ve got to stash some away in your bag. I’m all about this Bath & Body Works body cream right now – it smells great and the consistency is perfect (plus, it’s on sale!). I like to carry body butter or body cream with me, as I prefer a thicker consistency to my lotions. I usually stow a mini tube in my backpack for convenience – I’m carrying this one now!

3. Snacks: so essential, yet so understated. I wouldn’t dare leave my apartment for the day without packing something to munch on. Some days, I’ll pack a lunch or eat out. On the days when everything’s going wrong and I don’t have time for a lunch, I’m thankful I’ve always got a stash of snacks in my bag. Sitting through a lecture or meeting when your stomach is growling is absolutely the worst. I usually opt for Kind Bars or Clif Bars. So good.

4. Agenda: I’m a firm believer that organization is key to success. Or at least on the path to success… Nonetheless, I cannot survive a week, much less a semester, without my trusty planner in tow. I settled on this personalized Gallery Leather agenda in tan for 2015, but have been a fan of Lilly Pulitzer agendas in the past.

5. Notebooks: hear me out here… I know, I know. It’s 2015! I’ve spent the last 3 years of my college career as a laptop notetaker. Even last semester, if you would have told me I converted back to 1996 taking notes by hand, I wouldn’t have believed you. Yet, I’ve decided to go back to the basics and give this a try. I decided to try going a semester taking notes via notebook in hopes of retaining more information and to stay focused during class. So far, it’s proven to be a bit tedious, but I feel that I am engaging with the material more than I have before. Check back in May for results of this “experiment” – hopefully it pays off!

Beauty Bits: CND Shellac

I'm a sucker for a good Shellac manicure. Well-shaped nails and a fresh coat of no-chip polish is always in style, in my opinion. There's just something about neatly manicured nails that give me an extra "oomph" of confidence!

Chipped nail polish has always been one of my bigger pet peeves - it looks unsightly and  unprofessional. The cure? No-chip gel polish. After trying several different gel polishes, I've grown loyal to CND Shellac. While many gel polishes are on the market (OPI GelColor, Gelish, etc.), CND's unique formula has suited my preferences best. In my experience, Shellac truly lives up to its promise, lasting a full 14 days. In fact, I have gone tree weeks (gasp!) between polish changes and the polish has stayed completely in tact (although, the outgrowth was quite noticeable). Additionally, I have noticed the removal process for Shellac seems quicker and easier, taking no longer than 10 minutes. Finally, my favorite aspect of CND Shellac is the polish formula itself. The polish is undoubtably thinner than other gel polishes, leaving the nail with a beautiful, smooth profile in the end, versus the heavy and thick appearance other gel polishes can leave. Want to know more about the CND Shellac system? Click here.

Winter Skin Woes

Frigid temperatures and dry air have left my skin in a world of hurt. I've been using my Clarisonic Mia in combination with this gentle Fresh cleanser on repeat lately. Sadly, my tried and true Clinique moisturizer hasn't been cutting it lately, and after trying an arsenal of heavy moisturizers, I haven't been able to find the one. What's a girl with combination skin to do? Out of desperation, I scoured the web to find an old discontinued favorite of mine (Green Tea Moisturizer). I ended up purchasing a tube and am hoping it will be able to hold me over until I can find a more readily-available option.

While my winter face routine is in the works, I've got my lip care on lock. In the mornings, I exfoliate using this Lush Lip Scrub and follow up with a layer of the absolute best moisturizer and protectant. I swear by this stuff! I bring it with me wherever I go - especially in the wintertime. I also usually have a mini tube or two of these Mary Kay lip glosses stashed in my bag if I want to add a pop of color throughout the day. As for winter wear? I've been bundling up in blanket scarves and dreaming I lived in Florida. Wishful thinking!