Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Must Have of the Week: Steve Madden Sandals

These Steve Madden sandals are perfect for the upcoming warm months. They can go casual or dressy depending on what they're styled with. Their neutral tan color makes them very easy to pair with other clothing in your closet. The heel is chunky enough where it is still practical for everyday but it will give you the added height like a pair of heels would. These shoes would be a great way to upgrade your favorite summer sandals.

Pre-order a pair of these sandals here.

-BL

*This is NOT a sponsored post*

Monday, April 28, 2014

Alexander Wang to Design for H&M

Swedish fashion retailer, H&M is famous for teaming with big name fashion designers such as Stella McCartney, Versace, and Isabel Marant. In November of this year H&M will be adding a new designer to their long list of collaborations, Alexander Wang.

Wang will be the first American designer to create a collection for H&M. Known for his innovative, edgy, and wearable designs, it seems as though Wang is the perfect candidate to partner with everyone's favorite clothing store.

For being only 30 years old, Wang is one of the most successful designers in America. Wang received a huge honor in 2008 when he won the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, helping him to progress his collections even further. Another large success came soon after in 2009 when Wang was awarded the CFDA’s Swarovski Womenswear Designer of the Year Award.

Now Wang is responsible for three different labels. He established Alexander Wang in 2007 and T by Alexander Wang was launched in 2009. In 2012 Wang was named Balenciaga's creative director.

On November 6, 2014 Wang's collection with H&M will be launched. It will include both womenswear, menswear, and accessories. As with most of H&M’s designer collaborations it is expected that Wang’s designs will fly off the shelves.


For more about these items click here.

-BL

*This is NOT a sponsored post*

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Sunday, April 20, 2014

Packing Light for Spring Break

Spring Break is starting for a lot of people tomorrow. If you're lucky enough to be going away for a few days or more you're probably in need of some packing inspiration right about now. Packing light will always be your best option. If you're flying, packing light could save you some money and if you're driving you'll want to make the most out of your car's space.

The best way to accomplish this is by choosing items to take with you that can be worn in multiple ways.

Here are seven looks for you to wear on your Spring Break getaway.

For more about these items click here.
First off, it's all about mixing and matching. As you can see I used a dress as a top and a romper as shorts. Figure out what pieces will be serving more than purpose before taking off for your vacation.

Next, pick both basic items and visually interesting items. The basic white tank, teal shorts, and denim cutoffs are great additions to your vacation wardrobe. They are all easily paired with other pieces and go with both patterns and solids. The printed dress, floral romper, and the Ramones halter are what will provide the outfits with style.

For the outfits without the dress or romper, accessories add character. I chose two large statement necklaces and a big floppy hat. Paired with basics these accessories really standout and make the outfits.

Finally, pick no more than three pairs of shoes. No one is going to care if you wear the same pair of sandals three days straight. A pair of brown sandals, black sandals, and suede booties should suffice. Make sure that the shoes you pick have a fun detail so they'll add some personality to your looks. I love these strappy sandals and cut-out booties.

The moral to the story here is that packing can be a cinch if you pick out multi-functional pieces. Only add the essentials to your suitcase and you'll be good to go!

Have a fun and safe Spring Break!

-BL

*This is NOT a sponsored post*

One Dress, Three Ways


Whether the occasion is casual or formal, a crochet dress can never serve you wrong. This perfect for summer dress from Tory Burch can go festival chic, elegant, or casual with just a few simple accessory changes. It looks beautiful paired with both neutrals and bold colors and work well for all ages. A dress like this would be a wonderful addition to anyone's wardrobe. 

What’s your favorite 60 second style?

For more about the items featured click here

-BL


*This is NOT a sponsored post*

Tuesday, April 8, 2014

Must Have of the Week: Red Sox Hat


Baseball season is in full swing and winter is coming to a close. Fenway's season opener was last Friday so I feel as though a Red Sox hat would be an appropriate must have this week. I have been wanting this exact hat for so long. A snapback is the perfect replacement for winter's beanies. First off, they're super cute and secondly, they're perfect for hiding bad hair days. I love this one because it will go with a good portion of my wardrobe and its a stylish way to rep my beloved Boston.

Represent you favorite baseball team (as long as its not the Yankees, just kidding) with a stylish snapback.
You can buy this one here.

-BL


Sunday, April 6, 2014

Ban Bossy

For more about these "boss" picks click here.

“I’m not bossy. I’m the boss,” said singer Beyoncé in a public service announcement sponsored by Lifetime regarding the banning of the word "bossy".

Even though women make up 19% of the United State’s Congress, 5% of Fortune 1,000 CEOs, and 17% of corporate boards, they are still not treated as the equals of men when it comes to leadership and being bosses.

The USA Girl Scouts recently partnered with LeanIn.org, an extension of Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, a book written by Sheryl Sandberg. This organization is committed to supporting women in a variety of ways when it comes to leadership and helping these women to achieve their goals.

Together these two organizations created Ban Bossy, a public service campaign encouraging people to pledge to ban the use of the word “bossy.”

Many young girls who frequently speak up in class or take initiative feel that they are being judged by their classmates. This feeling of judgment in some cases stems from one little word, “bossy,” a word commonly used by fellow students to describe girls’ want to learn and lead.

The usage of this word usually comes at a young age and stays in the back of girls’ minds all through growing up. In some cases, it holds them back from leadership roles.

On the company’s website, they write, “When a little boy asserts himself he is called a ‘leader.’ Yet when a little girl does the same, she risks being branded ‘bossy.’”

The Ban Bossy campaign along with helping to spread how hurtful of a word “bossy” can be, has also put together informational packets full of tips and some eye-opening facts.

Some of these facts include that by the time they reach middle school girls are 25% less likely to say that they enjoy taking the lead and that girls are less likely to be called on in class and more likely to be interrupted while talking than boys.

Other famous figures and celebrities have taken note along with Beyoncé including fashion designer, Diane von Fürstenberg, actors Jane Lynch and Jennifer Garner, and the United States Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan. Each shared encouraging words for young girls about taking initiative and being strong leaders in the Lifetime public service announcement.

The use of the word “bossy” can be hurtful and can cause girls to shy away from leadership positions and roles that come with large amounts of responsibility.

Being a boss is a positive thing and the word "bossy" shouldn't get in any young female leader's way.

To find out more and to take the pledge go to banbossy.com

-BL

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

The Coachella Checklist

Coachella starts next Friday, April 11th. If you’re attending the music festival first off, I’m jealous. Secondly, you might be needing something to wear. Here’s a checklist of things you’re probably going to want to pick up before attending any shows.

For more about these items click here.

  • Floral… anything really
  • Sunglasses, preferably of the over sized round sort
  • Crocheted tops, bags, and dresses - the more boho the better
  • Statement tees 
  • Ankle boots - cutouts welcome
  • Flower crowns, duh 
  • Statement necklaces 
  • Stacked bracelets
  • Floppy hats
  • Lace 
  • Denim - jackets, dresses, etc. 
  • Flowy dresses, tops, and skirts
  • Jumpsuits
  • Crop tops
  • Fringe - bags, boots, etc. 
  • Maxi dresses and skirts 
  • Tie-dye 
  • Sandals
  • High-waisted shorts 
  • Bandannas  

Be safe and have fun!


-BL 

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Sweet Sixteen

So I feel really guilty about not posting anything since February. Things have gotten super busy outside of blogging and I've been trying to stay on top of my school work. Considering the fact that tonight is the first time in forever that I have a small amount of time to myself I figured I would spend it writing. I've been missing Freshmen Fashion and I'm happy to be back at it!

Here's a quick update with what I've been up to.

Last Thursday I turned 16, finally! That same day I went on a field trip with my art class to an art show in Boston and got my learner's permit afterwards.



I spent my Saturday in Boston with my best friend. We got dinner at one of my favorite restaurants, stopped at Mike's Pastry and Pinkberry, and then went on a mini shopping trip at Forever21. We certainly didn't let the rain get in our way.

I spent the rest of my weekend driving with my parents. I think I'm really getting the hang of it. 

I would just like to take this time and say that I am very grateful for my loyal friends and family. I'm really lucky and I'm aware of that. I got to spend my birthday with the most important people in my life and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. 16 years isn't a lot when you put it into perspective but in these years, I know its corny, but I've learned many lessons. I've experienced mistakes and successes, losses and wins, but most importantly I've learned so much about myself and my own character and that is what I'm most proud of. 

Life is always going to throw you challenges but its how you face them that shows who you truly are. I've had a lot of challenges tossed at me and I know that I will have many more but I can honestly say that I am happy with every conflict that has surfaced in my life. They have all made me a better person and I wouldn't change anything if I could.

I'm not the best at living in the moment but I am trying to take everything in and really enjoy life. I can't do anything about the past and regrets are a waste of energy. I'm happy with who I've become and I hope to continue down the road I'm on now.

Thank you to whoever took a few moment out of their day to read a post on my blog. I'm very thankful for you.

Continue to be who you are and do what you love.

These 16 years have been great and I can't wait to see what's ahead.


-BL