As We Go On

You guys. My undergraduate college career will be over in a little less than two weeks! What they say, it's true. These 4 years of your life do fly by. If you are about to enter college, or have a few years left, the best advice I can give you is to enjoy it while you can. Study hard, but at the same time, play hard.

This fall, I'll be attending graduate school to chase one of my biggest dreams. I will be sure to make more posts about my experiences in the future. Until then, enjoy these pictures of what I have been up to (fashion-wise) as of late:

{a dress I may be wearing to my graduation-- bold prints with a twist are a must in my book!}

{DIY purse pouches and a necklace from one of my best friends}

{'The One That Got Away' Katy Perry for OPI (btw, this picture doesn't do the color justice. It's a LOT more gorgeous in person.)}

Stay True

As I was checking my email this morning, I found a heartfelt email from one of my nearest and dearest pals, N. We've known each other since kindergarten, and have been the best of friends for years.

image via WeHeartIt

Her words inspired me to do a little self reflection. I thought about my life, as of late, and realized that I needed to write myself a message about something I had been losing sight of. Here is that message:

When you are dating someone, no matter what, stay true to yourself. Remember to never compensate your values, or make sacrifices that lead you away from the things you love, like your blog and school. It is easier said than done to say no to a dinner date when you have a test the next day, or a simple hour on the phone when you should be getting some sleep. Go into all relationships with a good head on your shoulders and a clear and concise idea of what your expectations are. Enjoy the euphoria and the happiness that comes with dating someone new, but don't get lost in it.

The End.

P.S. Be sure to check out the video for Taylor Swift's 'The Story of Us'. It was released today!!

The Beauty Department

image via WeHeartIt

Attention Lauren Conrad fans! A few of my friends have been telling me about a blog called The Beauty Department. It is run by LC herself, makeup artist Amy Nadine, and hairstylist Kristin Ess. After finally getting a chance to check it out, I just had to share it with you guys.

TBD is chalk full of tips and tutorials involving fashion and beauty. Here are a few of my favorite posts:

• When life gives you lemons... make salt scrub!
• The Every Day Wave: wavy hair tutorial
• Old Hollywood Glam: makeup tutorial

Obsessed

Two weeks ago, while shopping with my roommate/BFF, R, I went into Madewell for the first time. I knew the experience was going to open up a can of worms, but I decided to take my chances, anyway. From that first step in the door, it was instant love. I was like a kid in a candy shop. Everything was just so... pretty.

R ended up getting me a gift card to MW for my birthday. On the envelope, she wrote: "I would never start a habit I didn't support." She's the best. :)

all images in this post via WeHeartIt

Here is this week's list for MUSIC MONDAY:
1. 'Heartbreak Down' Pink
2. 'Enough to Let Me Go' Switchfoot
3. 'Sunburn' Owl City
4. 'She Doesn't Get It' The Format
5. 'Hey Boy' The Blow

Flash Dance

  

I've been pretty impressed with the Spring and Summer trends of 2011. Who would have thought that feathers from the 70's, and glitter nail polish from our tea-parties-with-teddies days would make such a big comeback?

I showed this crop top to my mom the day I purchased it. Her comments were as follows: "That shirt looks like something you would find in the movie Flash Dance!" I'm not sure if her words were meant to be interpreted in a positive way... or not. Regardless, I'll continue to flaunt the trends she once did, as a teen. The way fashion recycles itself never ceases to amaze me.

One last thing. While surfing the web this morning, I came across the following links. If you just so happen to have a few minutes of free time, I recommend you check them out!

• 10 strange uses for vodka
• Get inspired with Urban Outfitters' feather trend guide
• Tips on how to restore your damaged hair

feather image via WeHeartIt, all other images copyright SWEATshirt DRESSshirt

Fine Print

The Printed Skirt has been a top Spring trend for more past consecutive seasons that I can count. As of right now, I would even consider it to be a staple item.

TIP: When in doubt during the warmer months, throw on a printed skirt along with your favorite t-shirt, and you'll be ready in seconds.

sweater: Love On a Hanger via Nordstrom B.P. //skirt: Heritage 1981 via F21 $16 //nail polish: 'Mint Sorbet' Sally Hansen $1.85 SALE //ring: street vendor in Hawaii

sunglass images and text via polyvore, other images copyright SWEATshirt DRESSshirt

Mint Green

Have you ever told yourself you wouldn't do something, but ended up doing it, anyway?

Sally Hansen nail polish;  I have never been a huge fan of it because of it's runny-to-thick consistency and short lived finish. After giving it a few chances, I promised myself I would never buy it again. While at Target this past weekend, I broke that promise after being taken over by the temptation of a good deal. It all happened so fast, as I walked past a display for SH's Xtreme Wear Nail Color, alongside a 10% off sign (those sale signs can really get ya). I purchased two bottles at the low price of $1.85 each.

Tonight, out of boredom, I decided to put my purchase to good use. I was quickly reminded of why I never liked this brand. As I was applying the polish, it went from being runny to extremely thick, as if I had owned the polish for years. Well played, Target. I now see why you discounted this. On a positive note, the color is gorgeous. :)

So yeah, lesson learned. Don't purchase SH nail polish, unless you are a fast nail painter. The end.

Now playing: 'Run' cover Taylor Swift

Mother, May I?

Mother's day is just around the corner. If you're in need of some last-minute ideas, check out the fun and easy suggestions in this guide.

Store bought options:
Get her a...
1. Plant
2. Pretty necklace
3. Pair of shoes (you can't go wrong with this one!)

DIY options:
1. Clean the house
2. Give her a mani/pedi + massage
3. Cook her a meal/make a dessert

Happy Mother's Day, to all the Mom's!

all images via Polyvore

It's A Secret

{a lifetime of secrets: our new coffee table book}

Hello Bloggers!

I hope you all had a fantastic weekend! Last week, my roommate, R, and I attended a Post Secret media presentation, with Frank Warren, himself! R has been reading updates from the Post Secret website for years. I was so happy to see her finally meet the man behind the idea.

If you don't know what Post Secret is, visit the Post Secet Wikipedia page.

Here is this week's list for MUSIC MONDAY:
1. 'Unwell' Matchbox 20
2. 'Crazy For This Girl' Evan and Jaron
3. 'Home' Vanessa Carlton
4. 'Picture' Kid Rock ft. Sheryl Crow
5. 'Summer Girl' (cover) Leighton Meester

this image via WeHeartIt, all other images belong to SWEATshirt DRESSshirt