Showing posts with label shopping. Show all posts
Showing posts with label shopping. Show all posts

Saturday, January 4, 2014

14 Ways to Revamp your Look for 2014

2014 is finally here and you've probably said to yourself something along the lines of "new year, new me".

If that's the case then it's time to take the next step whether it be big or small. Here are 14 ways to revamp your look for 2014.

1. Work one or more of Spring's new trendy colors into your wardrobe for a fresh vibe. Spring 2014 is all about neutrals, pastels, and brights so you'll have plenty to choose from. Pantone, world-renowned authority on color, recently named their color of the year and other popular colors for Spring 2014. Check out my post about these colors here.

2. Update your makeup whether you make a drastic change or a small one. Usually a nude lip gloss person? Try a bold lip and minimal eye makeup. All about cat eyes? Switch it up and try a smokey eye. 

3. Invest in accessories. Purchasing a bunch of accessories is a much less expensive way to update your look. A new bag, scarf, or necklace will make your outfit look completely different. Look at how drastically the simple tee and jeans combo below changes with just a few accessory swaps. For more about the items featured click here.


4. Try a trend that is totally unlike you. Girly girl? Invest is a good leather jacket. Tom boy? Pick up a frilly frock in a super feminine color. There is always a way to make a piece that you usually wouldn't wear work for your style. 

5. Update your favorite pair of shoes. Treat yourself to a new pair of boots, heels, or whatever you know you'll wear all the time.

6. Find your signature fragrance. I love Hailey by Aeropostale.


7. Reinvent something you never wear. Maybe try adding some studs or other embellishment.

8. Try a new hairstyle. You don't have to do anything drastic. Maybe add a few highlights or get side bangs. You'll look and feel completely different. If worse comes to worse hair grows back. 

9. Go out and buy some new nail polish. I don't know about you but when my nails are done I feel so much better. Schedule one day a week to redo your nails. It makes a difference and you'll save money by doing them yourself. 

10.  Invest in good skin are. Whether you have severe acne or a few breakouts here and there try your best to find a product or multiple products that work for you. If you need help seek the advice of a professional they'll know what's best for you. Everyone is different, a product that works for me and my skin may not do anything for you. Read my review of Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Wash here.


11. Follow some fashion blogs (hint, hint) and take note of looks you like and don't like. Then think about why you like or dislike them. This will help you figure out a lot about your personal style. Go the extra mile and get a Pinterest account and pin your favorite looks for future inspiration. 

12. Try shopping your dad, brother, or boyfriend's wardrobe. Their unworn watch, tie, blazer, or sweater could become an awesome new statement piece for you. 

13. Study up! Watch a movie or read a book that's filled with fashion forward inspiration. For fashion books I recommend click here

14. Own it. Once you've figured out your personal style (if you haven't yet that's ok too) own your look. You're the only you so flaunt what you've got. 

Happy 2014!

-BL

Thursday, November 28, 2013

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

  • 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

  • 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

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

  • 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

  • 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
  • 50% off every single item until noon Friday
  • Free shipping on orders $125+
  • Buy 1 get 1 1/2 off
    • All weekend
    • Valid on items of equal or lesser value
  • Extra 20% off
H&M

  • Free shipping on orders $50+ 
    • Use code: 1088
  • 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
  • More deals from $2.95
  • Scratch-offs for first 100 people in line
    • Valued up to $300
    • Friday only
Victorias's Secret

  • 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

Thursday, October 10, 2013

5 Finds that Benefit Breast Cancer

With an estimated 232,340 females and 2,240 males being newly diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States in 2013 alone** it's pretty safe to say that most of us know at least someone in our lives who's either living with this horrible form of cancer or who is a survivor. Breast Cancer is something that we hear about all the time especially during October, breast cancer month. You may or may not know how easy it can be to lend a helping hand in fighting breast cancer and finding a cure. It could be as simple as buying a few fun fashion and beauty finds from some of your favorite brands.

Alex and Ani
$28.00

Alex and Ani is known for partnering with charitable organizations. The most recent Charity by Design bracelet is benefiting the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation, a Rhode Island based non-profit foundation that has created programs and services for people living with breast cancer. Alex and Ani is donating 20% of all sales from this Arms of Strength Charm through October 2014 to the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation with a minimum donation of $10,000.
 For more information about this bangle click here
For more information about the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation click here

Clinique
$15.00

A girl can never really have enough pink lipstick, can she? This nice shade of pink lipstick from Clinique is the perfect way to benefit a great cause. $3.00 from the purchase of this lipstick will be donated to the The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, who's mission is to achieve prevention and find a cure for breast cancer. 
For more information about this lipstick click here
For more information about The Breast Cancer Research Foundation click here

eos
$6.49

I always been a fan of  eos products. eos has created a new Breast Cancer Awareness 2-pack of their famous lip balm. This package includes their popular Strawberry Sorbet Smooth Sphere and a new Limited Edition Fresh Watermelon Smooth Sphere. A portion of proceeds to breast cancer research.
For more information about this lip balm click here

$115.00
GUESS

This feminine and practical watch is not only pretty to look at but it also a way to show your support for breast cancer. This limited edition watch comes with three interchangeable straps including white, light pink, and black, each perfect for a different occasion. The face features modern numbers a beautiful, sparkly pink ribbon, and crystal accents. GUESS and GUESS Watches are each donating $11.50 (total of $23.00) for each watch that is sold until January 31, 2014 for a minimum donation of $25,000 to Susan G. Komen, an organization that has made a large impact in the fight against breast cancer and that has worked to end breast cancer in the United States and around the world. 
For more about this watch click here.
For more about Susan G. Komen click here

$24.00
Urban Outfitters

This funky and super trendy beanie is stylish for a good cause. Urban Outfitters is doing their part in supporting the fight against breast cancer. 100% of the proceeds from this hat will be donated to Young Survival Coalition, a global organization devoted to the critical issues special to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. 
For more information about the beanie click here.
For more information about Young Survival Coalition click here

Do your part to support breast cancer awareness by purchasing items that benefit the cause or however you can. Most of all show some love to anyone who has experienced or is experiencing this cancer.
- BL


**Breast Cancer statistics found here**
*This is NOT a sponsored post*

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Adventures in Target

Sunglasses Forever21, Scarf  (similar) Forever 21, Jacket TJ Maxx, Hat Target 
There's just something about this kooky floral hat. I found this lovely "treasure" at Target while I was on the hunt for a black and white Red Sox snapback. This one sort of reminds me of Hawaiian shirt. Anyways... still on a mission to find that Red Sox hat. 

XO,
BL

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Pearl by Georgina Chapman for JCPenny

You may know her from Project Runway: Allstars where she is a judge, but now, Georgina Chapman of Marchesa has a collection of formal wear called Pearl available at JCPenney for affordable prices. This fun and girly collection includes everything from short, flirty dresses to long, elegant evening gowns perfect for prom. Here are a few of my favorites. 

From right to left: Organza Rosette Dress $70, Pearl by Georgina Chapman, jcpenny.com. Strapless Rose Applique Dress $70, Pearl by Georgina Chapman, jcpenny.com. Long Sleeve Lace Dress $110, Pearl by Georgina Chapman, jcpenny.com. 


From right to left: Lace Overlay Floral Dress $110, Pearl by Georgina Chapman, jcpenny.com. Lace Mermaid Dress $180, Pearl by Georgina Chapman, jcpenny.com. Peplum Lace Print Top $50 & Floral Lace Skinny Pants $70, Pearl by Georgina Chapman, jcpenny.com. 

I find all of these dresses and looks to be incredibly gorgeous. Although the prices may be small, the clothing is anything but cheap looking. This collection has something for everyone and for every formal event.  

XO,
BL

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own.
For more about the items shown in this post please click here.




Monday, January 14, 2013

It's All The Rage: Spring 2013 Trend Predictions

It's almost springtime so I decided to showcase a few trends that I think we'll be seeing a lot of this season.
Disclaimer: Trends are all fine and dandy but please, please, please put your own spin on them! Fashion is about showing your personality. It's okay to try out a trend but don't go overboard in an entirely over-trendy look. In my opinion showcasing your own style is fashion-forward not dressing in total trend. 


1. Art Deco Jewelry
I've been seeing graphic statement jewelry everywhere. I especially love this gold cutout necklace.

2. Button-up Blouses
Button-up blouses have been popular for awhile now and I think they will continue to be during the spring months especially in bright and pastel colors. 

3. Black & White
I think black and white is going to be a HUGE trend this spring along with B&W bold graphic prints.

4. Round Lens Sunglasses
In my opinion, round lenses and over sized frames are going to make up the season's most coveted style when it comes to sunglasses.

5. Tailored Shorts
With warmer weather season on its way its time again for shorts. Unlike last year's distressed, ombre dyed, and studded cut-offs I think this spring's shorts will be more tailored and toned down. 

6. Studs
Studded bags, shoes, and sweaters have been one of the hottest trends this fall and winter. I think that studded clothing and accessories will continue to be popular in the upcoming months. 

7. Statement Shoes
When it come to shoes this spring think the more unique the better. Chunky heels, bright colors, and fun designs will be all the rage

For more about the items featured in the image above click here.

For fabulous fashion randomness follow me on TwitterPolyvoreInstagram, and Pinterest.

Love Freshmen Fashion? I'm happy to hear! Please follow this blog on Blogger and Bloglovin'.

Also, please take my survey!

XO,
BL



Monday, November 26, 2012

Gift Guide: The Makeup Lover

When I first decided that I wanted to do a gift guide series for the holidays I automatically started thinking about characters to base the gift guides on. Then I decided that one of the guides had to be dedicated to the makeup lover.  I myself really enjoy makeup but don't know everything there is to know about it. I usually stick to my comfort zone and use just about the same products everyday rarely switching up my beauty routine. One of my friends has a love for makeup products and experimenting with different looks. When I thought about this post I instantly decided who better to write a summary on the best  makeup gifts than this friend.

Please welcome Freshmen Fashion's very first guest editor, Meghan. You may know her by her YouTube screen name meg285xo.


Meghan (left) & me (right) before our homecoming dance last month.

Here's Meghan's gift guide for the makeup lover:





1.) e.l.f. Gem 11-Piece Ultimate Gem Collection ($25) -  "Great idea for a friend who likes makeup and doesn’t have any brushes. In my collection of makeup brushes I use a majority of e.l.f. brushes because they are inexpensive and good quality. Also, if you have a friend who has a lot of makeup these could be a fun collector's item for them to receive."
2.) Korres Lip Butter ($12) - "These products are very inexpensive but amazing! There is a wide variety in the color selection to fit just about any one on your gift list. Even if you are buying for someone who isn’t head over heels into makeup all girls love a good lip balm."
3.) Maybelline The Falsies Volum Express Total Eye Look Kit ($10)  - "This great holiday gift comes with an eyeshadow quad, an eye liner, and a The Falsies mascara - one of my favorites! This gift item is great! It comes with great quality products that won't break the bank!"
4.) Hard Candy Holiday Glow Makeup Set ($5)  - "This cute kit includes 3 eyeshadows, 1 eye primer, and a blush and bronzer duo. Hard candy is an extremely pigmented brand and I highly recommend them. This kit is great to give as a stocking stuffer or if you're on a budget this kit will make a great present!"
5.) Stila Tiki Set Lip Glaze Trio ($8) - "These three gorgeous lip glosses will suit any skin tone. Having such high end glosses for under $10 is an insane deal, perfect for all of your friends!"
6.) Benefit Sexy Little Stowaways ($34)  - "This kit includes a lot of trial size products that makes it easy for a skeptical makeup lover to try a bunch of products. This is ideal for a family member or girlfriend and is a great price."
7.) Urban Decay Naked Palette 1 or 2 ($50) - "Both of these palettes are simply gorgeous! I personally own Naked 1 and use it daily. It contains all of the neutral shadows a girl could ever need." (Naked 1: http://www.sephora.com/naked-palette-P267200?skuId=1324532, Naked 2: http://www.sephora.com/naked2-P302916?skuId=1393636)
For more wonderful makeup tips and tricks make sure to check out Meghan's videos! Follow this link: http://www.youtube.com/user/meg285xo?feature=guide
Love Meghan's gift guide make sure to subscribe to her channel here and like her videos.
The collage used in this post was made using www.polyvore.com.
Love this blog? I'm happy to hear! Make sure to follow Freshmen Fashion on www.blogger.com and www.bloglovin.com!
For fabulous fashion randomness make sure to follow me!
Twitter (www.twitter.com/beverlylorrraine)
Instagram (@beverlylorraine)

XO, BL

Sunday, November 18, 2012

It's here... Black Friday/Cyber Monday

I myself absolutely cringe at the thought of waiting outside in long lines that are more than 100 people deep just to get that one item for that "one-time-only" price right after spending an entire day doing nothing more than eating. No. Thank. You. I'd much rather wait it out and find other methods to get great holiday items on sale. But if you're brave enough to participate in Black Friday then power to ya! This post is dedicated to everyone like myself who would much rather pay sale price than full price. Here's some useful information on how to get the best holiday shopping bargains this year whether you fight off the crowds on Black Friday or peacefully shop the sale from the comfort of your own home.

Follow your favorite brands on Twitter (you never know when they'll offer a special exclusive!):

Forever21 - @Forever21 (https://twitter.com/Forever21)
H&M USA - @hmusa (https://twitter.com/hmusa)
Charlotte Russe - @CharlotteRusse (https://twitter.com/CharlotteRusse)
Bath & Body Works - @LUVBBW (https://twitter.com/LUVBBW)
Famous Footwear - @FamousFootwear (https://twitter.com/FamousFootwear)
American Eagle - @AEO (https://twitter.com/AEO)
Victoria's Secret - @VictoriasSecret (https://twitter.com/VictoriasSecret)
Victorias's Secret Pink - @VSPINK (https://twitter.com/VSPINK)
Aerie - @Aerie (https://twitter.com/Aerie)
Macy's - @Macys (https://twitter.com/Macys)
Sephora - @Sephora (https://twitter.com/Sephora)
ULTA Beauty - @ULTA_Beauty (https://twitter.com/ULTA_Beauty)
Target - @Target (https://twitter.com/Target)
Bloomingdale's - @Bloomingdales (https://twitter.com/Bloomingdales)
American Apparel - @americanapparel (https://twitter.com/americanapparel)
Urban Outfitters - @UrbanOutfitters (https://twitter.com/UrbanOutfitters)
Express - @ExpressLife (https://twitter.com/expresslife)

Not a fan of Twitter? Sign up for email alerts from your favorite brands instead. Most stores offer this option through their websites and most of the time they'll reward you for signing up for newsletters too.

Sales and Specials you Should Take Note of:

H&M (Black Friday):
- Sweaters from $5!
- Dresses from $5!!
- Outerwear from $15!!!
- Pants from $10!!!!
- Scratch-offs for first 100 people in line!!!!!
- Street locations open at midnight
For exactly what's going to be on sale follow this link right here:
http://www.hm.com/us/black-friday#path=1&transition=1&duration=500
 -Give your email and get 20% off an item of your choice
Some Black Friday picks from H&M.

Charlotte Russe:
- Enter your email address and get 10% off your next order
- Enter your cell phone number and get sale/updates through text message

Famous Footwear:
-Enter your email address and get $5 off a purchase of $25 or more

American Eagle/Aerie:
- Free shipping on orders of $100 or more
- Limited time only free shipping with the purchase of one Aerie bra

Victoria's Secret/VSPINK:
- Free shipping on orders of $100 dollars or more. Use offer code SHIP12
- Free pair of slippers with purchase of sleepwear from most-loved pj's collection. Use offer code SLIPPERS12
- Bras - Buy one get one 50% off (2nd bra equal/lesser value) (through Nov. 28)
- PINK hoodie/yoga leggings $25 (Hoodie reg. up to $39.50. Yoga legging reg. up to $34.50) (Friday)
- Eau De Parfum  (2.5 oz or less) $30 while they last (through Nov. 28)
- The Starlight Robe $49.50 reg. $59.50 (Friday)
- Free limited edition Victoria's Secret tote with $65 purchase (includes beauty must-haves) (Friday)

Express:
- 40% off every single item!!!! (Cyber Monday)
- Free shipping!!!
- 50% off every item in-store & online! (Black Friday)

Urban Outfitters:
- Free shipping on orders over $50

American Apparel
- Free shipping on orders over $50

ULTA:
- Free holiday shipping on orders over $25
- $3.50 off any $10 purchase. Use offer code 74581
- Online savings begin at 8:00pm EST on Thanksgiving
- Most locations open at midnight on Thanksgiving (other locations open at 8:00)

For those who are willing to brave the major crowds and lines you deserve some serious credit. I hope this information will help you in your holiday shopping endeavors whether they take place on Black Friday or Cyber Monday or anywhere after or in between. While researching the topic of Black Friday/Cyber Monday I found that although some retailers have let the cat out of the bag about what kind of deals they'll be having a lot of stores have not. If I hear any more information about exclusives or details on bargains you can be sure that I will update this post but for now I want my readers to be able to figure out their shopping plan of action many days in advance. Enjoy shopping your behinds off and have an oh-so-chic Thanksgiving!


What are you looking most forward to this holiday shopping season?
Let me know in a comment!



Saturday, November 10, 2012

My Love for Cocktail Rings

I have talked about my love for a good cocktail ring many times on this blog. In fact, one of my very first posts was about rings (http://freshmenfashion.blogspot.com/2012/06/statement-rings.html)! One thing that I am really proud of is my incredibly large ring collection. I have one for almost every occaision. A great ring can add a perfect touch of glam to any outfit. Here are a few favorites of mine that I wear all the time.

 
Small Crystal Ring: Walmart (Can you believe it?)
 Claddagh Ring: Local Jewelry Store

 
Two-finger Key Ring: forever21
Claddagh Ring: Local Jewelry Store
 


Bow Ring: forever21
 


Rhinestone Band: forever21
Small Bow Ring: forever21
Mother of Pearl Ring: Artisan Made
 
As you can see a good majority of my favorite rings come from forever21. That is because their jewelry is very trendy and also very inexpensive. It's a good store to go to when you want  to try out a trend with out spending lots of cash. The accessories are usually of good quality for the price and always cute and chic. What's not to love about that?
 
Want to start your own cocktail/statement ring collection?
Try out some of these stores!
 
Forever21:
Macy's:
Aeropostale:
American Eagle:
 

 
Can't get enough Freshmen Fashion? Make sure to follow this blog on www.blogger.com and www.bloglovin.com! It would be greatly appreciated!
 
Want to follow me?
Instagram: @beverlylorraine