Monday, September 30, 2013

My Recent Obsession: F21 Bats & Cats Collection

Studded Batman™ Sweater, $27.80 & F6054 Round Wings Sunglasses$5.80, both Forever21. 

I was surfing through Forever21's website when I stumbled upon their new Bats & Cats Collection, a fun assortment of edgy Batman and Catwoman inspired clothing and accessories. 

There are so many things I love about this collection. 

1. Alright, don't even get me started on the hair and makeup. It is perfection. I am completely and utterly obsessed with this model's bright blonde hair and deep burgundy lips. Her flicked out eyeliner fits the Catwoman inspiration to a T. I think I'm going to have to give this look a try for fall.

2. The abundance of studs and graphic prints - I don't know what it is but I am loving the prints and patterns in this collection. They're bold and edgy and the studs just amplify the rocker vibe.

3. The accessories are great statement pieces on their own. If you don't want a full on batty or catty look this collection has interesting pieces of jewelry, cool headpieces, and hats that will add a tiny touch of superhero or villain kapow! to your look. 

Click here to check out my favorite pieces from the Bats & Cats Collection by Forever21.  

What's your favorite piece from the collection? Let me know in a comment. 

- BL


*This is NOT a sponsored post*

Thursday, September 26, 2013

OOTD: Birds of a Feather




Shirt, H&M. Bustier, Forever21. Jeans, Macy's. Bracelets, Alex and Ani. Shoes, Rainbow.





For my look today I layered this unique Forever21 bird print peplum bustier over a simple black button-up shirt from H&M. I wore dark wash jeans and black oxfords then accessorized with three of my favorite gold Alex and Ani bracelets. 

-BL


*This is NOT a sponsored post*

Monday, September 23, 2013

Summer Favorites 2013


Farewell Summer, hello Fall! 
Here's a quick recap of all my summer favorites from muscle tees to midi rings.

1 - e.l.f. liquid eyeliner 
I picked this up for $1 at Target and it's amazing for the price. It lasts all day for me and compliments the rest of my makeup.

2 - Maybelline Cover Stick Correcter Concealer
I purchased this on a whim because I just wasn't satisfied with my usual concealer. Turns out it's a much better product than the one I was using. It blends beautifully, gives great coverage, and looks natural.

3 - Midi Rings
I stumbled on the mini ring trend while surfing through pictures on Pinterest. The next time I went to Forever21 I bought a set of two and have been wearing them nonstop. I think they're so unique and feminine.

4 - Boston Alex and Ani Bracelet
I saw this bracelet on my friend and wanted so bad. I finally stopped in the Newbury Street Alex and Ani store and bought one. I wear it everyday.

5 - Forever21 Jeans
The cheapest pair of jeans I own have become my favorite. The color doesn't fade and they fit me like a glove. Need help finding the right pair of jeans for your body? Click here.

6 - Denim Vests
I talk about my love for denim jackets a lot here on Freshmen Fashion. I was having a hard time giving them up for the hot weather so I marched into H&M and bought a denim vest on sale for $15! What a steal!

7 - French Manicures
I like the way nail designs look but I'm horrible at doing them on my nails. Turns out French manicures are something I can handle. I use these awesome nail guides I found at Walmart.

8 - Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick - Kate Moss Collection
I like adding a pop of color to black and white outfits. My favorite red lipstick is by the Kate Moss Collection from Rimmel. It's smooth, matte, and long wearing.

9 - Muscle Tanks
Muscle tanks are my favorite because they're easy to throw on, casual, and comfortable.

What are some of your favorite pieces from Summer 2013?
 Let me know in a comment.

Happy Fall!
-BL


Looking for more exposure for your fashion website or clothing company? 
Advertise with my blog Freshmen Fashion!
Email beverlylorrainefashion@gmail.com for more info or click here

*This is NOT a sponsored post*

Friday, September 6, 2013

It's All The Rage: Military Inspired Fashion

Is it just me or does the military trend make a comeback every fall? Either way, I'm obsessed. I love the edgy factor of army jackets, combat boots, and of course camo. This fun trend is all the rage for Fall 2013. Here are some fun military inspired picks for Forever21, J. Crew, and more! 

Forever21
$5.80
Forever21
$5.80
Forever21
$47.50
Forever21
$39.80
Forever21
$17.80
Charlotte Russe
$42.50
J. Crew
$49.50
Charlotte Russe 
$42.50
Tilly's
$9.99
Lord & Taylor
$59
Steve Madden
SALE $69.98 (Orig. $99.95)
Forever21
$19.80

What's your favorite military inspired item? Let me know in a comment!

Happy September!
-BL


Looking for more exposure for your fashion website or clothing company? 
Advertise with my blog Freshmen Fashion!
Email beverlylorrainefashion@gmail.com for more info or click here

*This is NOT a sponsored post*

Monday, September 2, 2013

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Review

I recently purchased Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Wash and I just finished my first bottle. I know many people struggle with finding skincare products that work for them so I figured I would share my opinion of this product.

6 fl oz 
$5.49

When I first started using this product I did exactly what the directions said. I used the cleanser twice a day. I continued this routine for I'd say about three days. Soon my face started to get really dry. I had to start applying a moisturizer a few times during the day. I stopped using the product completely for about 2/3 days until my face was no longer dry. Then I went back to using it but only once a day at night. This new routine never made my face dry out like before. Using it twice a day was just too harsh for my sensitive skin.

Since using this product for about two months I've noticed some changes for the better in my skin. Breakouts are less often and my skin looks healthier. I've never had severe acne, just a few breakouts here and there randomly or when I'm stressed. This product makes my face feel very clean and reduces breakouts and blemishes when they happen. Immediately after using the cleanser my skin feels a bit tight but not super dry like when I was using it twice a day. I assume this tightness is due to the fact that cleanser foams.
I think this product would work best for those with small breakouts here and there.

The good
- This product has helped reduce my occasional blemishes.
- Since using breakouts have become less frequent.
- Never leaves my skin feeling oily.
- This product is a nice mild cleanser.

The bad
- The bottle said that it was also good for blackheads. I didn't notice that it did a very good job with this even though I carefully applied it to areas where I had this problem.
- I noticed a tad bit of tightness in my skin after using, but it's nothing major.
- Using it twice a day everyday is too much for my sensitive skin and causes dryness. Once a day is just fine.

Overall-
- I would recommend this product.
- I would repurchase this product.
- Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Wash is a nice mild facial cleanser that reduces my occasional breakouts and helps prevent them.


- BL


Are you a company that would like me  to review a product? 
Email me at beverlorrainefashion@gmail.com for more information.


Do you have a favorite skincare product? Let me know what it is in a comment!

*This is NOT a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.*

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Back to School Essentials: Must-Have Tops & Shirts



There's always a few go-to pieces in everyone's closet. They're the type of clothes you find yourself reaching for all the time, that go with most of your wardrobe, and that are good all throughout the season. They never seem to go out of style. These "must-have" items are the basis for any good closet. Here is a collection of tops and shirts that everyone should have a version of in their closet. These tops are good for mixing and matching and make great foundations for outfits. Enjoy!

Black V-Neck, H&M (similar). White V-Neck, Victoria's Secret. Burgundy V-neck, Forever21.

"The Basic Tee"
T-shirts in basic shapes and solid colors.

Basic t-shirts make great foundations to outfits. You can dress them up with a statement bag, leather jacket, and heels or down with jeans, converse, and a scarf. Either way they're a good staple so it's nice to have a few in your wardrobe. A basic white and black t-shirt is important to have in your collection along with one in a fun solid color. It doesn't matter if they're v-necks, scoop necks, etc. as long as they fit you right and are comfy. T-shirts are not an item to spend a lot of money on they come in many different price ranges and qualities. Buy what's right for you. 

*STYLE SECRET - Tees look surprisingly chic when worn with glam jewelry, dark wash jeans, and a blazer or tailored jacket.*

Cami, Target (similar). 

"The Basic Cami"
A tank top for layering under sheer clothes or tops with a low neckline. 

The basic cami is a must in any wardrobe. They're perfect for sheer tops or shirts with deep necklines. Whether you prefer ones with lace or without camis are an essential. Stock up on ones in black and white, they go with more.

*STYLE SECRET - Camis can work sort of like spanx at times when layered under other shirts. They'll suck in a bit of tummy. This doesn't mean that you should buy them in way smaller size then what you normally wear.*

Top, Kohl's (similar). 

"The Casual Blouse"
A top that is dressier than a tee but just as comfy.

Casual blouses are good for everyday outfits. They'll make you look put together but you'll still be comfy and not over-dressed. A feminine casual blouse is perfect for your first day of school or any other day of the week too. 

*STYLE SECRET - You don't need many accessories when you wear a casual blouse.*

Blouse, H&M (similar). 

"The Dressy Blouse"
A blouse that is perfect for more formal occasions and parties. It's fancier and more detailed than the casual blouse. 

The dressy blouse looks great tucked into a pencil skirt or dress pants and is appropriate for formal occasions. Dressy blouses usually have embellishments that make accessorizing a cinch. It's good to have a few fancy blouses in your closet for events where you don't feel like wearing a dress or where a dress is too formal.

*STYLE SECRET - Outfits including dressy blouses don't require a lot of jewelry or accessories in order to look special. A simple necklace, bag, and pair of heels or wedges is all you need.*

  Plaid Shirt, American Eagle (similar). 

"The Plaid Button-up/Flannel"
An easy and casual plaid button-up shirt.

Flannels and plaid button-ups are great for many reasons. They can be worn buttoned up opened over another top (sort of like a cardigan). They're easy, comfy, and practical. Flannels are particularly good for the cooler months. They'll provide warmth especially when layered. 

*STYLE SECRET - Steal a plaid button-up or flannel from your dad, guy friend, or boyfriend. A shirt that's a bit oversized will look effortlessly cool and edgy when paired with the right outfit. Plus it will be super comfy.*


"The Denim Shirt"
A button-up denim shirt.

This denim shirt is one of my favorite pieces. Denim shirts are great because they can be worn buttoned up and tucked into a pair of jeans or opened like a denim jacket over a t-shirt. I like styling mine with scarves and boots for fall. You can even dress them up with  a big necklace and heeled boots. 

*STYLE SECRET - If you're going to wear a denim shirt with jeans make sure that they are different washes in order to avoid the denim tuxedo look.*



These are just suggestions as to what make good wardrobe basics. Feel free to adapt these suggestions to your personal style and body type. 

Thanks for reading! 

What's one of your must-have tops? Let me know in  a comment!

- BL


Looking for more exposure for your fashion website or clothing company? 
Advertise with my blog Freshmen Fashion!
Email beverlylorrainefashion@gmail.com for more info or click here

*This is NOT a sponsored post.*

Sunday, August 18, 2013

Back to School Essentials: Jeans for You & Your Body

One of the most difficult things to shop for is jeans. We've all spent a good amount of time in the fitting room trying to find the perfect pair. To help decrease the denim stress I created this all in one jeans guide. Here you'll find tips on finding the right style for your body, what wash is best for you, what pockets can do for your bum, and how to make jean shopping less of a challenge. I hope you enjoy.

When shopping for jeans it can be helpful to know what body type you have.
Here's a quick & simple run-down of body types:

Apple - Larger bust than hips, rounded stomach, waist measures more than hips/shoulders.
Pear - Smaller bust and larger hips, thighs, or bum, shoulders smaller than hips.
Hourglass - Larger bust and hips and a slim waist.
Boyish- Small bust & broad shoulders, sometimes lanky or muscular.

Everyone's body is different and that's OK! If you don't completely fit into one of these categories you may be a combination of two or more. I just chose the most common shapes to define.

Now that you know your body type find your perfect fit.
Refuge Knock Out Skinny Boot - Short, Charlotte Russe 

BOOTCUT
Become wider at the knees and continue to get gradually wider down to the ankle.

Bootcut jeans are the most universally flattering type of jeans. They are especially good for girls who have a boyish, hourglass, or pear figure. Boyish figures will benefit from a bootcut pair of jeans because they will help give the illusion of a curvier body. Hourglass and pear bodies look good in a pair of jeans with a slight flare at the bottom because it balances out curves that are all ready there and evens out the body. Because bootcut jeans are universally flattering, if you're not sure what cut is right for you they're a good place to start.

BOYFRIEND
Baggy, usually cropped and distressed jeans.

Boyfriend jeans can be flattering when done right. Paired with a fitted top they'll look super cute and casual. If you're not sure whether or not they'll work for your body try on a few pairs and see what you think.


HIGH WAISTED 
Vintage inspired jeans with a tall waist. 

High waisted shorts were a huge trend this summer and I think high waisted jeans will be popular for fall. Don't be afraid of these bad boys. Their high waist works sort of like a belt when you tuck in a top. It will highlight your waist (your smallest part) and make you look more slender. They can be super flattering when you choose a leg that's right for you whether it's skinny, bootcut, or straight. 


Classic Skinnies, Forever21

SKINNY
Snug through thighs, legs, and ankles.

Skinny jeans are always a popular jean choice. They are good for petite girls because baggier cuts can be overwhelming on a small frame. Skinny jeans are good for enhancing curves but not so good for concealing them. If you're looking to enhance curves look for a pair of skinny jeans with stretch to really highlight your body. Skinny jeans are awesome but not great for every body type. If you have wide/hips/thighs/or butt that you're looking to minimize they might not be the best option. 

High-Rise Jegging, American Eagle

JEGGING 
The legging of jeans

Jeggings are pretty much the leggings of jeans. They're like a super skinny, skinny jean. Just like with skinny jeans they'll highlight curves. Jeggings look particularly good with longer tops because these jeans are so similar to a legging.

Perfect Pockets: You'd be surprised what pockets can do for your body. 

For the most flattering look find jeans with pockets that are centered and medium sized.
Side Note: Fading under the bum = more curves

You found the perfect style of jeans, now find the right wash.

White- Crisp and clean but sometimes tricky to wear. If you're planning on picking up a pair of white jeans for school make sure that the fit is correct for your body type otherwise they could be unflattering.
Light Wash- Super casual and laid back. Same as the white jeans for light wash jeans to flatter your shape they have to be the perfect style for you. For my petite girls light wash will make your legs appear longer.
Medium Wash - You can't go wrong with a pair of classic blue jeans. They look good on everyone and come in a bunch of different styles so you can find the one that's right for your body. Medium wash is easy to style and dress up or down. 
Dark Wash - Super slimming. If you have curvy hips, thighs or bum dark wash jeans are perfect for slimming you down. They are the most universally flattering. For tall girls dark wash jeans will make your legs look like they go on forever. 
Navy - Super dark jeans are great for night time and are on the dressier side. They look good on pretty much everyone. Just like dark jeans they are very flattering for curvier bodies. 

From Right to Left: White Jeans, Hollister. Light, Medium, Dark, & Navy Jeans, Abercrombie. 

Shopping for jeans can be a very stressful process so here are some quick tips to make it easier:

- Don't pay attention to the size on the tag. All brands are different. You may be a different size in every brand you try on and that's normal.

- Don't be afraid to get a pair of jeans that is one or more sizes than what you usually wear. The only person that will know this is you. The only thing that matters is that the jeans fit and flatter you. If you get a size down just to get a size down chances are your body will look bigger stuffed into a pair of jeans that are too small.

-If you try on a pair of jeans with stretch that are a tad bit snug it's OK. They'll most likely loosen up over time. If they're extremely tight originally they're not going to stretch out an entire size.

A great pair of jeans are essential to anyone's wardrobe. Finding them can be a tricky process but when you do it will feel so rewarding. If you really like a style pick up a couple pairs so you never run the risk of not being able to find them again. It's OK to splurge a little on a pair of good quality jeans. They'll last longer so in the end they will be worth the money.

Good luck shopping for your perfect jeans!
What is your favorite type of jeans? Leave a comment and let me know! 

Looking for more exposure for your fashion website or clothing company? 
Advertise with my blog Freshmen Fashion!
Email beverlylorrainefashion@gmail.com for more info or click here

*This is NOT a sponsored post.*