Best of 2015!

I can't believe that I'm already doing a Best of 2015 post and that it's the start of 2016. I tried some new products and trends throughout the year, but a few of my favorites are repeats from past "Best of" posts (here and here). If you have been using the same products for a couple years straight, I guess that's when you know it's a good product. Here is a somewhat short compilation of products, trends, and random favorites from 2015.

Beauty 

Kiko Automatic Precision Eyeliner in "712" and "713"

I bought these eyeliners in France mainly because they were cheap and advertised as long lasting. The eyeliners quickly became one of my favorite eyeliners, since they are creamy, last all day, and easy to use. The color 712 is the perfect dark brown and 713 is a sparkly bronze-brown perfect for night outs. I just regret not buying more before I came back home.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

The first time I used this mascara I wasn't a big fan. I found it clumpy and the formula too wet. However, after a little bit of getting used to, the mascara quickly became one of my favorites. It adds volume and length without clumping easily.

NYC Smooth Skin Sunny Bronzing Powder

This bronzer has been a cult favorite for years and still doesn't let down. I dropped using blush and instead just used a bronzer to warm up my complexion and add a slight bit of contouring. Check out my review here for more details about the product.

Revlon Lip Butter in "Juicy Papaya"

I'm not one to wear anything on my lips other than chapstick, but when I did want a little bit of color, I would usually reach for this Revlon lip butter (review here). It's gives a natural wash of color and it's moisturizing, so it doesn't feel like you are wearing anything on your lips.

The Body Shop Vitamin C Skin Boost

I'm not one to wear a base since I don't usually wear face makeup, but I've been using this product nearly every day. It's a base with a similar consistency as a serum and gives a natural glow, which is perfect for those who don't like wearing a lot of makeup.

Fashion 

White Jeans
One of my favorite new pieces of clothing other the summer was a white pair of skinny jeans. It was a great alternative to leggings and dark wash jeans that paired well with most tops and shoes.

Blanket Scarves
Throughout the fall and winter, blanket scarves became one of my new fashion obsessions. Not only are they very comfortable, but they are stylish and were the perfect addition to any plain outfit.

Brown Riding Boots
My pair of Ralph Lauren brown riding boots were in my "Best of 2014" post and have made it again to another yearly favorite posts. The boots are comfortable and go with everything, from a casual pair of leggings to a dressy skirt and tights.

Other 

Favorite Blogs
I read a lot of blogs via Bloglovin this year, so it's hard to narrow it down to just a few. For fashion/style blogs, my favorites include Hello Fashion, The Style Bungalow, Southern Curls & Pearls, and Twenties Girl Style. Some of my favorite beauty blogs include Kate La Vie and From Roses. Last but definitely not least, some of my favorite food blogs have been Half Baked Harvest, Damn Delicious, and Skinnytaste.

Favorite TV Shows
I'm someone who watches maybe a little bit too much television, but I find TV the perfect way to escape and relax. One of my favorite shows this year was How To Get Away With Murder, which is a drama mystery show and I recommend everyone who likes a good show with many twists and surprises. Some of my other favorite TV shows included Parks and Recreation, Drunk History, Workaholics, Vampire Diaries, and rewatching Chuck and Modern Family.

Favorite Song(s)
Listening to music is one of my favorite ways to pass time, so compiling a list that didn't go on forever was a little hard to achieve. Below is a list of songs that were some of my favorites or most played this year.

What were some of your favorites last year?
I would love to read your responses below!

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Patterned Cape | Fall/Winter Fashion 2015

Items above: American Eagle Southwestern Poncho / BP. Plaid Poncho / American Eagle Southwestern Poncho / Topshop Tonal Knitted Cape

Outfits for Inspiration

Clockwise from top left: Southern Curls and Pearls / Hello Fashion Blog / The Sweetest Thing Blog / Jimmy Choos and Tennis Shoes

Oh my gosh, has it been a while. Too long if you ask me. I could give you many excuses, but I'll be posting my recent trips and updates about what has been taking up most of my time. This post will be about one of the trends that I've been seeing everywhere, from blogs to the streets of Grenoble: The patterned cape. Capes are similar to cardigans, but often don't include sleeves. Instead, they are simply in-between a cape and a blanket scarf.

Capes are not only comfortable and warm for the cooler months, but also had a chic twist to an outfit. In particular, pattern capes can add twist to an otherwise simple outfit. Capes also can give a mixed, but stylish look of being both laid-back while also fashion forward. Although capes can seem intimidating, they can be easily paired with a simple sweater, skinny jeans, and a pair of booties, making it the perfect outfit for the fall and winter!

Will you be trying the cape trend this fall?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Distressed Black Denim | Fall Fashion 2015

Items above: Free People Destroyed Jeans / American Eagle Sateen X Extreme Legging / MOTHER 'The Looker' Frayed Ankle Skinny Jeans

Outfits for Inspiration

Photos above: A Southern Drawl / Crystalin Marie / The Sweetest Thing Blog

Distressed light denim and boyfriend jeans grew in popularity over the past few seasons, and the trend is effortlessly transitioning into fall through distressed black denim. Earlier this year I wrote a post on distressed jeans (here) for spring and didn't think that I would be posting about distressed denim again anytime soon.

However, when tastefully paired with the right pieces, distressed black denim can easily be considered a staple for anyone looking to add a bit of edge to an everyday outfit. Whether it's paired with a classic striped tee or worn with a pair of strapy heels, distressed black denim is a chic alternative to the classic black leggings or jeans.

Will you be wearing distressed black denim this fall?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Olive Green | Fall Trends 2015

Items above: Topshop Plunge V-Neck Cami / Topshop Tie Back Maxi Dress / American Eagle Shirt Dress / Echo Sequin Embellished Crinkle Wrap / Sam Edelman 'Dea' Pointy Toe Pump / BP. V-Neck Sweater / Topshop 'Westly' Bucket Bag / BP. Long Textured Open Cardigan

Outfits for Inspiration

Clockwise from top left: The Style Bungalow / Kats Fashion Fix / Southern Curls and Pearls / The Sweetest Thing

Olive green jackets seemed to take stores by storm throughout the past few seasons and continue to be a fashion-forward color this fall. Olive green, however, does not have to be limited to outerwear and can be often found in everyday pieces, such as dresses and t-shirts.

Olive green is described as a not-so-appealing yellow-toned medium green and is often more widely known as army or military green. Although the description of olive green may not be so welcoming, the color is chic when represented through clothing while also providing a subtle pop of color to a fall outfit. Whether it's through clothing or accessories, olive green is a great way to add some color to your wardrobe this fall.

Will you be wearing olive green this fall?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Summer to Fall Transition Pieces

Items above: Lush 'Karly' Shift Dress / American Eagle Petal Back Sweater / American Eagle Jegging / J. Crew Chambray Shirt / American Eagle Cardigan / BP. 'Trolley' Ankle Bootie / Phase 3 'Pom Ringer' Infinity Scarf

The transition from fall to summer can cause mixed feelings for those who soaked up every minute of summer. While some scramble to get flannels and everything pumpkin, others (like myself) hang out to summer until the very last drop. However, the transition between fall and summer can be just a little bit easier by including some fashion pieces to your look that dabble, rather than plunge, into fall.

Shift Dress

A simple shift dress can be useful to you in many ways year round. Whether it's dressed up with a pair of wedges during the summer or dressed down with a comfy cardigan and boots, a shift dress can save you during those days when you don't know what to wear.

Light Sweater

Perfect for those late summer nights to cooler autumn days. A light sweater can give you warmth without feeling like your trapped in a thick layer of unnecessary fabric. Wear with a skirt during the summer while pairing it with skinny jeans during those cooler days.

Distressed Jeans 

Distressed jeans adds a laid-back feel as well as a bit of personality to any outfit. If you enjoyed wearing distressed jeans during those cooler summer days, swapping the sandals with a pair of riding boots and t-shirt for an oversized sweater will give you the perfect fall outfit.

Cardigan 

A long sleeved cardigan allows you to stretch the wear time of your tank tops through those chiller days when no-sleeves won't cut it, but you still want to wear that cute tank that you're not quite ready to let go and leave it behind with those long summer days.

Chambray Shirt

A chambray shirt is a great staple to have in any wardrobe, but especially during transitions between seasons. Whether it's buttoned or unbuttoned, a chambray shirt can provide added warmth to a look while giving the outfit the laid-back feel of summer.

Booties 

Booties are wearable year round, but are especially useful during the transitions to and from summer. Booties are the perfect shoes to pair with a sundress during the dog days of summer, while also being a perfect edition to a fall flannel and jeans ensemble.

Scarf 

Scarves are a great accessory to have in your wardrobe if you want a simple way to add detail to an outfit. Light scarves can be easily worn with your summer tops for some warmth to your outfit without overheating in an otherwise thicker scarf or coat.

Are you excited for fall?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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10 College Essential Wardrobe Pieces

Items above: 1. J.Crew Knit Tee / 2. Tart Adair Jersey Dress / 3. Forever 21 Knit Open-Front / 4. PRESS Military Jacket / 5. H&M Purl-knit Sweater / 6. ASOS Biker Jacket / 7. Forever 21 Ribbed Cardigan / 8. American Eagle Skinny Jeans / 9. Aerie Leggings / 10. J.Crew Pleated Skirt

September is right around the corner and the school year is approaching, which for many of us means the start or return to college. Figuring out what to bring to college can be overwhelming and stressful, especially when it comes to clothing. When you have to fit your clothes into a closet three feet long, sometimes not all of your clothes will make the college-cut. However, you can easily stretch your wardrobe by bringing some basic essentials that can be worn year-round and dressed up or down.

1. Basic Tee. Whether it's for lounging around during lazy weekend or dressed up with a necklace for a night out, a basic v-neck tee is a must for those who are looking for versatile pieces. Although my musts are neutral black and white tees, having other colors is an easy way to add color to your wardrobe.

2. Little Black Dress. This one is probably no surprise. You've probably all heard that a little black dress is must, but it is honestly a great piece to add to your wardrobe. It will be convenient having a go-to dress that will work for most expected or unexpected occasions that requires more formal wear.

3. Blazer. Just like the little black dress, a classic, go-to blazer is the perfect staple to transition from a professional to less-professional ensemble. A classic blazer can last you for years, making it a piece that can be carried with you beyond college.

4. Versatile Jacket. A versatile jacket that transitions nicely from summer to fall is an essential in every college wardrobe. A lighter (or heavier) grey or green jacket is perfect for class and goes with nearly every outfit.

5. Oversized Sweater. Nothing says comfy like a good oversized sweater. Oversized sweaters hits the spot by adding warmth while being stylish paired with scarf and boots.

6. Leather Jacket. A (faux) leather jacket may not be everyone's style, but for those who want to add a clothing piece with personality to their look, a leather jacket is the way to go. A leather jacket can dress up any outfit and like the other jackets mentioned in this post, it can easily be worn throughout the school.

7. Cardigan. Cardigans are the perfect way to stretch your wardrobe and wear tank tops and short-sleeves into the fall and winter. There are also currently various styles of cardigans in stores, so you are most likely bound to find that fits your needs and style.

8. Dark Wash Skinny Jeans. Classic and go with anything. Dress the jeans down for classic with a comfy sweater or dress them up with a cute top and heels. Dark wash skinny jeans are a great piece to have in your wardrobe if you want something practical and can be worn to almost any occasion.

9. Leggings. A pair (or multiple pairs) of leggings are a great essential to have in college, since they are not only comfortable, but also worn in various ways. Wear them while being comfortable in your dorm room or dress them up with a sweater and tucked into boots. What more can you ask?

10. Skirt. A solid skirt is a great piece to have in your wardrobe if you want a piece that transitions smoothly from day to night. Whether it's a pencil or skater skirt, a simple skirt can also stretch your wardrobe by being easily worn throughout the year.

What is a must have in your wardrobe?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Get the Style: Karlie Kloss Street Style Summer 2015

Left Photo Credit / Center Photo Credit / Right Photo Credit

Whether you know her has Taylor Swift's BBF or one of the top models in the world, Karlie Kloss has an effortless street style that can be easily recreated with accessible pieces. Karlie Kloss often wears breezy skirts and dresses, making recreations of her outfits perfect for those who like comfortable yet stylish ensembles for the summer. Below are three outfits inspired by the three photos of Karlie's street style above.

Outfit 1

Items above: Dress / Aviator Sunglasses / Tote / Sandals / Necklace / Classic Hoops

This first outfit is probably my favorite of three looks, since it's very wearable yet trendy. Simply pair a navy high-low or tulip dress with a pair of black sandals. Karlie kept the rest of the look simple with a pair of aviator sunglasses and black tote. Finish the look with simple jewelry pieces, such as a letter necklace (the one above is similar to the one worn by Karlie) and hoop earrings.

Outfit 2

Items above: Top / Stud Earrings / Clutch / Skirt / Bracelet /Sandals

For a chic yet unique look this summer, this next outfit is perfect for both the day and night. Pair a light knit sweater or top with a white skater skirt. Add white sandals to complement the top and skirt. Wear a black clutch or bag with simple accessories to finish the look.

Outfit 3

Items above: Two-Piece Dress / Backpack / Sandals / Aviator Sunglasses / Necklace

This last inspired ensemble is the perfect effortless and trendy look for daytime summer look. Start the recreation with a chambray or blue two-piece dress paired with brown sandals. Add a pair of Aviator' Sunglasses and a brown backpack to the effortless look. Since the outfit is fairly simplistic, add minimal jewelry to finish the look.

Who is your style icon?

Thank you for reading!

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Hot Pink | Summer Trends 2015

Items above: ASTR Sleeveless Romper / Lush Strappy Swing Tank / Kate Spade Thin Enamel Bangle / Dee Elle Off the Shoulder Romper / J. Crew Tiangle Bikini Top / J. Crew Ruched Bikini Bottom / Blu Pepper High Neck Woven Tank / Essie Nail Color in "Fiesta"

Outfits for Inspiration

Outfits above clockwise: The Sweetest Thing / Southern Curls and Pearls / Pink Peonies / The Red Closet Diary

I am someone who tends to not gravitate towards brighter colors or trends. I will envy those who can pull of the trend from a distance, but will never have the guts to pull off the color myself. The Hot Pink trend is not exception. Although I don't usually wear a lot of bright colors, I love how hot pink has hit many stores this summer and is being incorporated into many summer ensembles.

Hot pink pieces make a fun statement to a look by adding a bright pop of color. Hot pink looks best with neutral pieces, such as black and white. However, don't be afraid to mix and match hot pink with other colors, such as some of the bloggers above have successfully done in a clean and fashionable manner. If you're feeling daring and looking to add more life to your wardrobe, hot pink may the "it" color for you this summer!

Will you be wearing hot pink this summer?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Embroidered | Summer Trends 2015

Items above: Forever 21 Embroidered Gauze Peasant Dress / Street Level Embellished Wristlet / Jack by BB Dakota Bronwen Dress / Velvet By Graham Spencer Dalene Top / Tularosa Gemma Dress / J. Crew Factory Cotton Gauze Short

Outfits for Inspiration

Outfits above: A Southern Drawl / Southern Curls and Pearls / Nicholl Vincent / Boho Chic Cafe

Boho meets preppy with the embroidered trend that has been popping up in stores this season. Embroidery adds a touch of detail to an otherwise plain clothing piece, making an outfit look put together while also being unique. The detailing from embroidered pieces are also perfect for a wide range of events, from a causal day out to a dress for a more formal event, such as a wedding.

Embroidered clothing pieces are perfect those who like casual and comfortable clothing, but want to keep their ensemble from looking plain. Embroidered pieces also come in a wide range of sizes in terms of the embroidered detailing as well as many colors. Whether it's a touch of detail or making a statement, embroidered pieces are a great way to spice up an otherwise simple outfit.

What do you think about embroidered pieces?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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How To Style: Black Tees

Not to my surprise, my go-to top this summer has been a black tee. I tend to gravitate to the comfy-casual look on an everyday basis and black tees have been a must. Not only are they comfortable, but are versatile and can be dress up or down. When it comes to a simple piece such as a black tee, I either like to keep the rest of the outfit simple or dress up the top with some more detailed pieces. Below are three looks that are inspired by ways in which I wear black tees.

Black and White

Items above: H&M Short-Sleeved Top / H&M Denim Shorts / American Eagle Chambray Shirt / BP. Bar Ear Climber / Steve Madden 'Rillie' Two Strap Sandal

Black and white are one of my favorite combos for an easy, clean, but chic look. Pairing a black tee with a pair of white shorts or jeans are the perfect way to pull off the black-white combo. Add some more detail to the look with a chambray shirt, earrings, and wedge sandals.

T-Shirt and Jeans

Items above: H&M Short-Sleeved Top / Street Level Slouchy Faux Leather Tote / American Eagle Hi-Rise Skinny Jeans / BP. Stone Stud Earrings / BP. Polished Stone Pendant Necklace / Converse Chuck Taylor Low Sneaker

Nothing beats a good ol' tee-shirt and jeans combo. Add to the laid-back look by wearing a pair of classic white sneakers. Finish the ensemble with a pendant necklace and a neutral tote bag.

Dressed Up

Items above: H&M Short-Sleeved Top / H&M Woven Shorts / BP. Chevron Pendant Necklace / Topshop Ankle Strap Sandals / Ellis Long Sweater

Black tees are not just for casual wear and can be dressed up for a summer going-out ensemble. First create a monochromatic look by tucking the tee into a pair of black soft shorts. Add some detail to the look with a flowy cardigan, simple jewelry pieces, and a pair of classic sandals.

What's your go-to piece in the summer?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Summer Whites | Summer Trends 2015

Items above: Topshop Off The Shoulder Top / Lulus Nightswim Dress / Lush Tulip Hem Maxi Dress / Articles Of Society Sarah Skinny Jeans / Topshop Faux Snakeskin Zip Clutch / BP Luminate Sandal /BP Springs Wedge Sandal

Outfits for Inspiration

Photos above clockwise: Southern Curls and Pearls / A Southern Drawl / The Sweetest Thing Blog / Boho Chic Cafe

Some people love pops of colors in the summer and others like a bright white. I personally love white in the summer, since it's a great way to brighten an outfit without making a bold statement. While I love a good pop of color, white is always clean and crisp and goes with almost anything.

A white ensemble is perfect in the summer for those looking for an outfit to complement their tan. White is also a great way to make other brighter colors pop, such as when paired with a bright statement necklace or pair of wedges. Whether you decide to wear white on its own or add a pop of color, white it a great way to bring light to any summer ensemble!

Do you wear a lot of white in the summer?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Get the Style: Taylor Swift Summer Street Style 2015

Photo credit: First / Second / Third / Fourth

Taylor Swift has been the "it" girl, from her new(-ish) album to her action-filled music videos. Along with her evolving music, Taylor also has a style that is both trendy and classic, while remaining simple and not over the top. Here area some recreations of some outfits that can be incorporated in your wardrobe this summer that is inspired by some looks that Taylor has been spotted in recently.

Outfit #1

Items above: Forever 21 Floral Tunic / MICHAEL Michael Kors Selma Medium Satchel / Forever 21 Knotted Stud Set / Lulu's Wrapped in Radiance Ring / Audrey Brooke Dorian Sandal

This first outfit is the perfect going-out ensemble for the summer. First pair together a white and blue floral dress with a pair of blue heels. Add some more color to the look with a purple handbag. Finish the outfit with some more detailing with some silver jewelry.

Outfit #2

Items above: ASOS Crop Top with Gold Belt Trim / H&M Circle Skirt / Rebecca Minkoff Small Amorous Satchel / ASOS ELKO Caged High Heels / Forever 21 Belted Crepe Trench Coat / BP. Rachel Cubic Zirconia Stud Earrings

If you love neutrals and white, this next outfit is right up your alley! Start by pairing a white crop top with a white skater skirt. If you want an exact look to Taylor's, wear a white top with some gold detailing or add a gold belt. Add some neutral pieces to the ensemble, such as a pair of neutral heels and coat. For a subtle pop of color, wear a pink handbag. Finish the look with some simple accessories.

Outfit #3

Items above: H&M Black Top / Forever 21 Leather Booties / Forever 21 Buckled Faux Leather Crossbody / Forever 21 Abstract Print Shorts / Forever 21 Necklace / Essie Nail Color in "Red Nouveau"

This key to this next look is the black and white patterned shorts. To keep the focus on the shorts, add a black long sleeved tee and black booties. For accessories, go for a brown crossbody bag and a pendant necklace. Finish the look with some true red nail polish.

Outfit #4

Items above: ASOS Romper / Topshop Arrow Tote Bag / Forever 21 Pointed Faux Suede Pumps / Forever 21 Earrrings / ASOS Fine Double Band Stone Ring / Essie Nail Color in "Bordeaux"

Although this last outfit is simple, it's classic with small twist. By adding a pair of blue heels with a white romper, you create a chic summer outfit with a pop of color. Add some gold accessories and a neutral bag to complement the dress. Wear a dark burgundy nail polish to finish off the look.

Who is your style icon?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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Flamingo Fun | Summer 2015

Items above: Wildfox Flamingo Print Tank Top / Covet Pop Art Stud Earrings / Kate Spad Slim Bee Wristlet / BP Flaminogo Print Cotton Romper / Kate Spade Iphone Case / Bucketfeet Slip On Sneaker / Sunnylife Flamingo Candles Set

Flamingos are no longer just for cheesy front lawns and are instead a growing trend this summer. It seems like every year there's a new "it" print and flamingo is the new popular trend. Flamingo is a fun way to add a lot of detail and a pop of pink to any summer ensemble!

Although flamingo prints may seem childish, when paired with more sophisticated pieces, like crisp shorts or a pair of wedges, the print becomes a fun statement piece. The flamingo trend looks especially cute when worn at the the beach or at a daytime party, since it's a unique way to style a summer outfit. So if you're looking for something new and bold this summer, then the flamingo trend may be up your alley!

Also, here's a relevant bonus pic that was too cute not to show:

Will you be trying out the flamingo trend this season?
I would love to read it in a comment below!

Thank you for reading!

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