4th of July Fashion: 3 Looks, 3 Styles

I have to say that the 4th of July is one of my favorite times of the year. Summer is in full swing and there's just something about the colors red, white, and blue paired together. I love it! I always have fun playing with clothes for special occasions and the 4th of July is no exception (check out what I wore last year here). If you're looking for something to wear this Friday to watch fireworks, attend a family BBQ, or just show off your American pride here are three looks to help you gain some inspiration.

I love an outfit with a fun and flirty pinup girl vibe. The 4th of July is the perfect time to be inspired by such a classic look. I kept it casual by pairing a simple red, polka dot, collared shirt with light wash boyfriend jeans. For accessories, all you need are some basic white Converse and a fun head wrap. Headbands like the one shown above are such an essential in my closet. I love this one's nautical print for the 4th. I can see this look paired with a nice red lip to really pull together that retro inspiration. Overall, this outfit will keep you comfy while still maintaining an adorable pinup look. 

For those who like a look with a bit of edge this outfit is totally up your alley. Instead of going for full on red, white, and blue this look incorporates just a hint of the patriotic color combo. The white lace shorts contrast with the edgy Rolling Stones tee, giving a touch of femininity to the outfit. The tall gladiator sandals reinforce the rock n' roll vibe while the sunglasses keep the look 4th of July festive. 

If you're looking for a look thats a bit more dressy try something like this. A denim dress is still casual and comfy but when paired with bright pops of red the look takes on a more girly vibe. The wedges make the laid back dress look more put together and the fun headband makes this outfit unique and special. 

What will you be wearing on the 4th of July? 

Tweet me a pic!

-BL

*This is NOT a sponsored post*

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Summer Lookbook feat. Warby Parker

The official start of summer is right around the corner. You're most likely going to be spending more and more time outside enjoying the warm weather. With warm weather comes sun, and the sun's harsh rays can be very damaging if the the proper precautionary measures are not taken before stepping out into the nice weather. Wearing a pair of protective sunglasses is extremely important. If you're going to be wearing sunglasses nearly everyday you want them to be good looking, right? Check out the late spring/early summer looks I created below with some of Warby Parker's beautiful glasses.

Sunglasses, Raskin in Polished Gold, Warby Parker. Top, American Eagle. Necklace, LC Lauren Conrad. Watch, Charlotte Russe. Rings, Charlotte Russe. Jeans, Celebrity Pink. Boots, Charlotte Russe. 

Sunglasses, Raskin in Jet Silver, Warby Parker. Dress, Forever 21. Jacket, Levi's. 

Sunglasses, Boyd in Marbled Charcoal, Warby Parker. Tank, TJ Maxx. Jacket, Aeropostale. 

Sunglasses, Madison in Rum Cherry, Warby Parker. Top, Cali Trends. 

Sunglasses, Jasper in Marine Slate, Warby Parker. Jacket, Target. Tank, American Rag. Necklace, Forever 21. Jeans, Celebrity Pink. Watch, Aeropostale. 

From top to bottom:

 Raskin (Jet Silver), Boyd (Marbled Charcoal), Jasper (Marine Slate), Raskin (Polished Gold), & Madison (Rum Cherry)

I was introduced to a brand called Warby Parker a little while ago and when I looked at their website I was instantly intrigued.What I saw was a bunch of sunglasses in a range of different styles, there was something for everyone.

In order to find out what sunglasses were for me I used their wonderful home try on option to see what I liked most. Here are some notes on how my home try on process went.

Basically, the home try on process allows you choose five pairs of glasses that you are interested in for a hands on trial at your own home. After picking your favorite five pairs Warby Parker will send you your glasses for a time period of five days. During those five days you have the chance to give your borrowed glasses a whirl.

The only issue I came across was that one of the pairs I wanted to use in the home try on process was unavailable to me because all the home try on pairs were with other customers at the time. Clearly, people agreed with how much I loved them. With a little patience this problem can be avoided by waiting your turn. Due to the fact that I am not a patient person I just decided to pick a different pair in their place. I was too anxious to wait.

My home try on package was delivered in only three days, they came right on time. When I opened the box I was happy to see five beautiful pairs of very nice quality sunglasses.

My taste when it comes to sunglasses is usually pretty basic and simple. A good pair of aviators or wayfarers is usually what I go for but at the same time I thought the home try on would be an opportunity for me to branch out a little. Because of this I chose both some classic aviators (Raskin) and some more interesting picks as well (Jasper, Boyd, & Madison). Then I created five late spring/early summer looks.

Another great aspect of Warby Parker is that they give back. Warby Parker works with partners in order to provide those in need with glasses. After a pair of glasses is sold, Warby Parker either provides glasses or funding to a non-profit partner. For more information about this program click here. So, when you purchase from Warby Parker you are not only treating yourself to a great pair of glasses but you are also doing your part to better the world.

Overall, I would most definitely recommend Warby Parker to a friend.

For more information about any of the details mentioned click here to visit their website.

-BL

*Thank you to Warby Parker for introducing me to their brand & for giving me the opportunity to check out their glasses*

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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

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Smells Like Spirit Week

It's Spirit Week at my school. Each day has had  a different theme and students are encouraged to dress accordingly. Today's theme was Time Warp, where you dress like a certain time period. I went for 90's grunge. This style is completely different from what I would normally wear but I actually really loved the final look. Here's the outcome.

Nirvana T-shirt - Target

Jacket - Dollhouse (similar)

Flannel - Forever21 (similar)

Jeans - Charlotte Russe (similar)

 Boots - Dr Martens

Ring - Kohl's

Beanie - Forever21(similar)

Does your school have Spirit Weeks?

Let me know in a comment!

-BL

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Must Have of the Week: Charlotte Russe Wedges

OK so Valentine's Day is still weeks away but these shoes would be perfect to celebrate in. Nothing says 

V-Day more than a feminine pair of red Mary Janes. These wedges from Charlotte Russe are perfect for styling because they would look good with a variety of different outfits, whether you're going for a casual or dressy look. Also, compared to stilettos they'll be much easier and comfortable to walk in. What's not to love? See what I did there? Love, Valentine's Day, anyways moving on. 

Pick yourself up a pair of these Mary Jane Wedges here.

-BL

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Update Your Go-To Sweater for a Holiday Party

Attending a holiday party this weekend and have no idea what to wear?
Update your everyday go-to sweater with a few glam pieces and you’ll look put together and festive.

For more information about the items featured click here.
Be sure to FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER.
-BL

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Thanksgiving Weekend & Black Friday: An Interactive Guide

Thanksgiving weekend is extremely popular time to shop for many people. To make this hectic start to the holiday shopping season a bit less crazy and stressful I've created an interactive guide for all the best sales and specials that are popping up.

Make sure to click on the links, flip through the slide shows, and click on your favorite items to find out even more information about all of the Black Friday/Thanksgiving Weekend/Cyber Monday deals from your favorite brands and stores.

First things first here are some
*Sales and Specials You Should Take Note Of:

Aerie

Aerie Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• 50% off your purchase
• Offer expires  November 29, 2013 at 3:00am PST
• Free shipping with any purchase
• Free tote with $45 purchase while supplies last
• Offer expires November 30, 2013 at 3:00am PST
• 10 for $30 undies

Aeropostale

Aeropostale Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• 60% off everything
• Free shipping on orders $75+
• $25 Aero Card with $100+ purchase 
• Online only 
• Offer expires November 28, 2013 at 6:00pm EST
• Use code 25THANKS

American Eagle

American Eagle Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• 50% off everything
• Offer expires November 29, 2013 at 3:00am PST
• Free shipping with any purchase

Bath & Body Works

Bath & Body Works Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• $5.99 flat rate shipping on any order
• 2013 V.I.P. Bag - $20 with any $40 purchase while supplies last 
• Use code VIP13
• Wallflowers Refills - $5
• Ends tomorrow
• Signature Collection - buy 3 get 3 free 
• Limited Time
• All 3-Wick Candles - 2 for $22
• Limited Time 
• Anti-Bac Hand Soaps - 4 for $15, 6 for $20

Betsey Johnson

Betsey Johnson Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• 30% off the entire site
• Use code SHOP 30
• Free shipping on orders $100+
• Cannot be used on clearance items
• Use code BETSEYFREE

Charlotte Russe

Charlotte Russe Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• Free Shipping - No Minimum
• $15 off $75, $25 off $100
• Online Only
• Shoes buy 1 get 1 for $5 
• Valid on items of equal or lesser value
• Excludes markdowns
• Knit leggings buy 1 get 1 free
• Select styles
• Valid on items of equal or lesser value
• All sweaters $20
• All denim leggings $15

Express

Express Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• 50% off every single item until noon Friday
• Free shipping on orders $125+

Famous Footwear

Famous Footwear Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• Buy 1 get 1 1/2 off
• All weekend
• Valid on items of equal or lesser value
• Extra 20% off
• All weekend
• Enter promo code 20TURKEY13 or
• Get coupon 

Forever 21

Forever 21 Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• Free shipping on orders $30+
• Extra 50% off sale items
• Use code EXTRA50

H&M

H&M Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• Free shipping on orders $50+ 
• Use code: 1088

Pre Black Friday - 11/22 - 11/29

• Up to 70% off 
• Pants from $9.95
• Sweaters from $9.95
• Outerwear from $19.95
• Tops from $7.95
• Jeans from $9.95
• Accessories from $2.95

Black Friday

• More deals from $2.95
• Scratch-offs for first 100 people in line
• Valued up to $300
• Friday only

ULTA Beauty 

ULTA Beauty Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• $3.50 off $10 purchase
• Use code 100250 or
• Print store coupon
• Other Black Friday deals start online at 7pm CST or in-store at 8pm
• While quantities last

Victorias's Secret

Victoria's Secret Deals by beverlylorraine on polyvore.com

• Free shipping on orders $30+
• Use code FREE30
• $15 off $100
• Use code 15OFF100
• Bras - buy 1 get 1 50% off
• Use code DOUBLEUP
• Free slippers with every one of most loved PJ gift sets
• Free secret reward card with $10 purchase
• Free scarf with sweater purchase
• 2/$55 yoga pants and leggings
• Eau de Parfums - $25

Victoria's Secret PINK

• Free shipping on orders $30+
• Use code FREE30
• $15 off $100
• Use code 15OFF100
• Bras - buy 1 get 1 50% off
• Use code DOUBLEUP
• Free laundry bag with $65 purchase
• Use code BAG65
• Ends today!
• Free secret reward card with $10 purchase
• 5 for $26 panties
• $25 hoodie or yoga legging
• Starts 8pm
• In select stores/online
• While supplies last
• Select styles

*Make sure to check your favorite stores' websites for all of the exact details of their sales and promotions 

Twitter Handles:
You never know when your favorite store or brand is going to offer a special exclusive!
Click the links to follow your favorites on Twitter. This is a great on-the-go way to check if there's any new sales.

Aerie - @Aerie
Aeropostale - @Aeropostale 
American Apparel - @americanapparel 
American Eagle - @AEO
Bath and Body Works - @LUVBBW
Betsey Johnson - @xoBetseyJohnson
Bloomingdale's - @Bloomingdales
Charlotte Russe - @CharlotteRusse
Express - @ExpressLife
Famous Footwear - @FamousFootwear
Forever 21 - @Forever21
H&M USA - @hmusa
Lord & Taylor - @LordandTaylor
Macy's - @Macys 
Sephora - @Sephora
Target - @Target 
Target Deals - @TargetDeals
ULTA Beauty - @ULTA_Beauty
Urban Outfitters - @UrbanOutfitters
Victoria's Secret - @VictoriasSecret
Victoria's Secret PINK - @VSPINK 

Also make sure to follow me! @BeverlyLorraine 

Make sure to start signing up for email alerts from your favorite brands as well as following them on social media. Most stores offer this option through their websites and they'll likely reward you for signing up for newsletters too.

I'll be updating this page as much as I can as I find out more information about any new bargains to be had. Happy Thanksgiving!

Enjoy shopping! 

-BL

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OOTD: Give You the Cold Shoulder

Shirt, Forever21 (similar). Jeans, Charlotte Russe (similar). Boots, Target (similar)(similar). 

For this casual look I paired my new flannel shirt with shoulder cutouts from Forever21 with my favorite black skinny jeans and an old pair of black moto boots. This edgy look is easy to recreate and super comfy for a chilly fall day. 

What's your go to fall look?

Let me know in a comment!

- BL 

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The Statement Blazer

Floral Crop Top, $13.80, Forever21. Gold Chain Necklace, $15.80, Forever21. Jeans, $30, Hollister. Brown Booties, $48.50, Charlotte Russe. Gold Watch, $14.75, Aeropostale. Black Shorts, $78, Madewell. Scarf, $18, Nordstrom. T-shirt, $9.95, H&M. 

The statement blazer is an easy piece that automatically adds polish and style to any outfit.

- BL 

Find Your Signature Piece of Jewelry

Everyone should have that one piece of jewelry that says who they are. Having trouble finding your signature piece? No worries, I scoured through my jewelry collection and created a guide to help find great personal jewelry for everyone. 

Enjoy!

Preppy: 

Jewelry pieces with a nautical theme, such as anchors, will add a preppy touch to any look. 

Pearls are always a must-have for this style, a longer strand is more modern. 

Anchor necklace (similar) - Forever21

Pearl necklace (similar) - Forever21

Feminine:

Adding some jewelry with bows, roses, and heart details is a great way to make your look a bit more girlie and cutesy. 

Striped bow ring (similar) - Forever21

Bow ring (similar) - Forever21

Heart Bracelet - LC Lauren Conrad

Heart/Key Necklace - Forever21 

(For a similar look layer a rose necklace, key necklace, and  heart necklace.) 

A Vintage Vibe:

Pearl details, antique looking chains, and ornate details all make for a vintage look.

Ring (similar) - LC Lauren Conrad

Eiffel Tower Necklace (similar) - Forever21

Camera Necklace - LC Lauren Conrad

 Bohemian:

For a boho touch search for pieces with large gems and stones, earthy metals, beading, intricate details, and mismatched metals.

1st Ring (similar) - Forever21

2nd Ring (similar) - Forever21

Necklace (similar)- Charlotte Russe 

Glam & Edgy:

Look for dark metals, large gems, and interesting details for an edgy, glam look.

Necklace (similar) - Kohl's 

Bracelet (similar) - H&M

Ring (similar) - H&M

Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry that means something to you?

Tweet me a picture (@beverlylorraine) or tag me in a picture on Instagram (@beverlylorraine)!

- BL

4th of July Picks

Show off your American pride on the 4th of July with these fun picks!

1. Flag Scarf, Aeropostale, $15. 

2. Americana Crossbody Handbag, Betsey Johnson, $78. 

3. American Flag Crop Tank, Delia's, $19.50. 

4. Star-Spangled Dog Tag, Forever21, $3.80. 

5. Star-Spangled Heart Necklace, Forever21, $3.80. 

6. Stripe Headband (online only), Love Culture, $2.93. 

7. Freedom Acid Wash Shorts, Forever21, $27.80. 

8. MTV American Flag Muscle Tank, $24.50. 

9. Americana Heart Sunglasses, Urban Outfitters, $16. 

10. Stars & Stripes Canvas Bootie, Charlotte Russe, $50. 

XO, 

BL

For more picks clicks here.

Some Great Feedback from Love Culture!

*This is not a sponsored post.*

Maxi Dress Monday

Happy Memorial Day! 

I recently did a post on my new favorite dress, a fun printed maxi dress. I've never owned a maxi dress before and thanks to this one I now want to go out and buy everyone I see. They are comfortable and cool for warm days, but they always leave you looking put together.

Here's how I styled mine for a relaxed weekend.

Dress (no longer available), Charlotte Russe. Denim Jacket (similar), Charlotte Russe. Bracelet, Alex and Ani. Sandals (similar), Kohls. Sunglasses (similar), Forever21.

XO,
BL

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