Back-To-School Shopping Essentials

My Featured Article: http://theteentrends.com/back-to-school-shopping-essentials/

As July comes to a close, summer’s end is drawing near. Which can only mean one thing…. school is almost here. Next month, August, is probably the best time to start your back-to-school shopping. Growing up, I always had mixed feelings about this time of year. I loved the fact that I was getting new things, but I also dreaded the fact that it meant I’d be going back to school. Which I can safely assume is still the mentality of most kids.

Whether back-to-school shopping is painful for you, or you have brothers and sisters that also need mom and dad’s help, I’ve compiled a list of back-to-school shopping essentials. All the items you’ll most likely need to get you through at least half the year, if not the entire year (I’m sure your parents are hoping for the latter), and the best places to shop for these essentials.

I must mention however, that there are students who attend schools that require uniforms. For these students school uniform shops might be their best bet. All of their shopping could virtually be done in one stop! I personally think that uniforms are a great idea. They not only save time getting ready in the morning; you don’t even have to think about what you’re going to wear, but they also aid in reducing harassment at school- since every student is required to wear the same thing.

For all other students here’s what a typical shopping list might look like:

Essentials

Jeans

Shirts

Shoes

Jacket

Gym Clothes (if a uniform is not required)

Formal Clothes (skirt, dress, slacks, tie, collared shirt)

Backpack

*I could also suggest khakis, because they’re always nice to have on hand. As for the formal clothes- at least one outfit should be considered. Depending on your school, these particular clothing items could be used for such things like an assembly or awards ceremony. 

Places To Shop

Department Stores (Clothing items)

Bargain/Discount Stores (T.J. Maxx, Ross, etc. Lots of good deals can be found here)

Sporting Good Stores (gym apparel, shoes)

School Uniform Stores (if uniforms are required)

Your favorite store (this one’s a no brainer)

Easy enough, right? What are some of your back-to-school essentials and favorite places to shop? 

Summer Shoe Must-Haves

My featured article: http://theteentrends.com/summer-shoe-must-haves/

With the official start of summer comes the steady stream of social invites, to places like beach parties, dinner dates and girl's night out. But in the midst of our planning, us girls always seem to run into the annoying question of, "What am I going to wear?" If this sounds like you, because it sounds like me- you're probably hoping for a wardrobe genie. While I can't provide that, I will provide a list of summer shoe must-haves, appropriate for any and all of your plans. 

DAYTIME CASUAL

•FLIP-FLOP: Perfect for the beach or pool

•SLIPPER: Cute with shorts, skirts or capris

•FLAT SANDAL: Adorable with a dress

NIGHTTIME DRESSY

•SLIPPER: Cute with shorts, skirts or capris

•WEDGE: Ideal for a dinner date or girl's night out

•ESPADRILLE: Its wrap around strap dresses up any outfit

From day to night, these shoes will carry you the entire summer through. Which styles do you already own? Which styles do you want next? 

6 Must-Have's for a Picture Perfect Prom

My article: http://theteentrends.com/6-must-have-items-picture-perfect-prom/

With prom season amongst us, I thought I'd compile a list (for those of us still in school) of the 6 essential items you'll need for a foolproof night!

Camera
Toting a camera on prom night allows you to capture the memories of friends new and old. For most prom goers this night will be your last hurrah as a graduating class. Don’t let the moment pass- get to snapping!

Gum/Mints
Most prom nights begin with a dinner and end with dancing. And dancing in close proximity always warrants fresh breath! To save yourself the potential embarrassment pop in a piece of gum, or a breath mint prior to hitting the dance floor.

Safety Pins
Ladies, if on your routine stop to the restroom you find a rip in your dress or a broken zipper, don’t fret- your night isn’t ruined. Carrying extra safety pins will provide a temporary fix to most minor wardrobe malfunctions. Fellas, the same could be said for tuxedos; got a loose hem or a missing button? A safety pin does the trick. Don’t have one? Ask your date, she’s sure to have you covered.

Bobby Pins
Let’s face it, getting your hair done is one of the best parts of prom night. Having it fall out of place right before your picture is taken, is one of the worst. Keeping bobby pins handy will help you to immediately combat those annoying fly-aways and troublesome tresses. You’ll be smiling for the camera in no time!

Lip balm/Lipgloss
Smile! Those flash bulbs will be going off all night, and to ensure your pout is picture perfect- simply apply your favorite lip balm/gloss throughout the night. My favorite; eos lip balm- smooth sphere in Sweet Mint.

Band-Aids
Formal footwear was an aspect of prom that always made me happy. However, dancing in heels for hours on end makes me anything but. If you plan on wearing the highest of heels, I advise you to carry a handful of band-aids. When placed between your shoe and your skin, a band-aid provides cushion to your ankles as well as prevents blistering. Prom is about having fun and dancing the night away- not sitting it out.

So here’s to a night of making memories that will last a lifetime! Enjoy!

Outerwear Essentials

"When 'tis fair be sure to take your great coat with you." - Benjamin Franklin. 

Coats and jackets are such an essential part of your wardrobe. "What's the difference between the two?" you might be asking. Did you even know there was a difference? There actually is; 2 distinct ways of telling apart a coat from a jacket is a) length and b) thickness. Jackets tend to be shorter and lighter in material, and coats are longer and heavier in material. None the less, both outerwear pieces are vital to both men's and women's collections. 

Recently I've become obsessed with the two. I even had to return this beautiful wool coat/cape I purchased during Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale :( It was such a pretty piece, but I realized as much as I liked it and as much as I could convince myself I'd wear it, truth is, it's wool and I live in California...so back to the store it went. So in it's place and for a fraction of the cost, I got a few new outerwear items!!!

The Rainy Weather Coat

The other day Joey and I went to Sam's Club. It was a free pass day, meaning, they were having a  promotion for non-members, allowing them to shop for one day only at their location. So....we took advantage of it. And one of the items I picked up was my brand new trench coat in khaki. The coat, is from the Reaction collection by Kenneth Cole and retailed at $39.98- such a steal!!!!!! Of course I had to get it ;) Aside from khaki, the coat also came in black and an army green. It fits true to size and has several details. What I love about this coat is that it looks nice open or closed and that it can be dressed up or down. This particular piece is more for the rainy weather, starting in the fall and can run up till spring- depending on what part of the world you live in. It's not as heavy as a full on winter coat, it's designed that way- acting more as a barrier from the rain than from the cold. If you don't have one, get one, its versatility makes it an essential!

The Cold Weather Coat

Last winter I came across this off white Espirit number at Burlington Coat Factory. I think I was planning a trip during the winter and I didn't have an appropriate coat- I did just  move from Hawaii 1 month prior ;) I want to say I was actually looking for a leather jacket when I came across the one I purchased, and I believe the coat was in the neighborhood of $40 or so. I had to do a bit of tailoring to it because it was a little lengthy in the arms, but that's nothing a quick needle and thread couldn't have fixed! I also made sure to scotch-guard it before I wore it, to prevent from it getting stained or God forbid ruined. So far, so good! This coat too, fits true to size and looks darling when all buttoned up. It's nice and thick, so it definitely keeps me warm. I absolutely love this coat, and can't wait until it gets cold enough to wear again. Actually I can....but you catch my drift :)

The Fashion Statement

Leather Jackets are the ultimate fashion statement. This piece is a classic, I don't foresee it going out of style any time soon. Which is why I was so excited when I picked up my first one. Both jackets are from a store called Style For Less and retailed under $35 each. The black motorcycle style was $34.99 and came with a detachable belt, which I don't wear with mine. I love the collar on this jacket, it's the style of collar I've wanted on a leather jacket, ever since I could remember wanting one. It's the feature I love most about this piece. 

The brown leather jacket was $24.99 and features plenty of zipper detailing. What caught my eye about this one was its cognac hue, it's going to look amazing in the fall!  Leather jackets are also another wardrobe must have, they too are versatile and can add a bit of edginess to your outfits. And if you can do all that without breaking the bank, why not??

*Side note: both jackets are faux leather- as if the prices told you otherwise ;)

There you have it, just a few key outerwear pieces. Where this obsession will take me, I'm not sure. Hopefully I'm through with buying coats AND jackets for a while because I'm definitely running out of closet space!! Explore what you have in your own, check out local shops and even thrift stores for those key pieces. You don't have to spend a fortune to look like one. Till then, stay fabulous. XOXO

Jewelry Essentials

Sometimes you have the urge to dress yourself up in jewels. Other times, you want to wear nothing. And then there are those times where you only want to wear key pieces; the ones you wear no matter what. I get that. That's me! Hey, I  think it's always in style to accessorize, but sometimes you CAN go too far. I'm sure I've done it a time or two. You know, the earrings with the matching necklace and bracelet. Or an accessory on just about every limb. Whether we like to admit it or not, it's happened to the best of us. And in an effort to avoid those mistakes, I've compiled a list of essential jewelry items. A list of pieces I think every woman should own, pieces that you can wear for any occasion or with any outfit. So reach for your jewelry box and start digging...you may surprise yourself on what you find, and you may just find those essential items were there all along :)

Diamonds are a girl's best friend. So true indeed! Except we aren't talking the 13 or 14 karat items- you know, the diamonds you've always dreamed of having. We're strictly talking about the basics..the diamond studs and matching pendant. These 2 pieces will carry your wardrobe so far. You'll wear these items your entire life- I promise. That is unless you don't like diamonds, and I've yet to meet a woman who didn't! None the less, diamonds are forever elegant and classy. They add that extra touch when you feel your outfit is missing something, and they are extremely versatile. Diamonds can be worn with any outfit. Any!!!! (Keep in mind, we are talking about stud earrings- not the ones that dangle. I don't find those very practical ;) ) Yes, diamonds can be pricey- but they are so worth it. This is one jewelry item, I encourage you to invest in. *Side note: I highly encourage purchasing conflict free diamonds- do your research. However, if in fact you can't afford the real thing, you can also purchase what are known as cubic zirconias; essentially man made diamonds. These aren't the real thing, but if you buy a decent pair, they could pose for a diamond. Cubic zirconia is inexpensive, and so easy to get a hold of. You can find such earrings and necklaces at retailers like Claires or The Icing for less than $10. A small price to pay for a piece you can use a whole lot :)

Who said pearls were your mother's jewelry? They aren't! Pearls are timeless and will forever be fashionable. I find that simple strand of pearls to be very sexy on a woman. Like diamonds, pearls are essential and are also pieces you should invest in. They too add the element of class to any outfit. In my opinion, I find pearls to be more formal than diamonds- so I suggest wearing them on occasions. For example, wear them to a wedding, a baptism, graduation, etc. That's not to say, you should only wear these jewels on days when you're celebrating- I just find that pearls look more attractive when you have a reason to wear them. I like to wear my pearls simple; studded earrings and a single stranded necklace. 

However, pearls do come in many forms. There are the classic white, the not so commonly seen black (which I'm lucky to have, thanks to my grandmother) and then the ridiculously beautiful tahitian pearl- the one I've wanted for so long!!! Do your research before buying a pair, there are so many choices. Just like cubic zirconias, pearls also have impostors. These of course are more affordable than the real thing, you'll find them labeled glass pearls and can be purchased at just about any accessory store. If your jewelry box doesn't contain a set of pearls, real or not, I urge you to go out and get a pair!

What time is it?? Even though watches keep time, in a fashion sense, they are timeless. Watches will always be in style. They come in so many different styles, colors, brands, etc. that I couldn't tell you which one is essential. All I know is that  every person should own a watch. Not only are they stylish, they're also quite helpful- reminding you of what time or day it is, especially if you are in the workforce- you need to own a watch. I myself, have 4 watches- but I really only wear 1 all the time; my Michael Kors Chronograph Resin Ladies watch in white (Model MK5187). I absolutely love this watch. I'd say it's one of my key pieces :) I originally got this watch on Amazon.com for $202.50, I'm not sure how much the piece actually retailed for. $200 for a watch is expensive, but I assure you- quality is better than quantity. I bought this piece over a year ago, I wear it just about every day, I've yet to change the battery or send it in for repairs- so spending big bucks on it is no longer a concern. Whether its designer or non name brand, a watch is a must!!!

Don't be afraid to add a little extra to your otherwise stellar ensemble. Sometimes it's the jewelry and accessories that can make an outfit. Have fun with it, and if you're ever in a rut- just remember the essentials. Till then, stay fabulous! XOXO

Red Dot Boutique

Target. One of my most favorite stores. The other day my boyfriend Joey and I went shopping there, and while we intended to pick up a few groceries, I managed to walk away with a few clothing items :) My only saving grace however, is the fact that these items were inexpensive and a necessity...at least 2 out of the 3 were! But who's counting?

Let's begin with the infamous little black dress.

This dress, by Xhilaration, is super cute and for $20 it can be worn in several different ways. Whether you're running errands or out on a date, this dress is a great option. While the dress itself is not altogether formal, it's a piece that can be dressed up or dressed down. Example #1: Just running around town? Wear this dress with a long necklace and a pair of slippers (some call them flip flops- but after living in Hawaii for a couple of years, this is the ONLY word I know them by)- and your look is complete. Example #2: Out on a date? Pair this dress with a shorter necklace, add a wide belt if you like, throw on a dressier sandal or wedge and there you go, you've got the perfect outfit for an evening out. It's a fashion must- every woman NEEDS a little black dress in her closet! *Side note- if you plan on buying a reasonably priced dress that's multi-functional, I suggest washing it in cold water with a detergent that's strictly for dark clothes. That way, it'll slow the process of fading your black dress and make it last longer. I use Woolite's Extra Dark Care detergent. 

Next item: the ever so useful legging. 

Leggings come in different lengths: knee, capri and ankle. I'm on the shorter side, so I go for the capri length. These leggings, by Mossimo Supply Co. are SOOO versatile...and comfy :) These too can be casual or dressy- simply add a pair of sneakers and a tee shirt and you can hit the gym, wear them with slippers and a tunic top and you're comfortably chic, or pair them with heels and a blazer and you're ready for drinks. Leggings are another must. Stick with the basics, grey and black to achieve a more slimming appearance. Watch out for the flashier colors, they can make you appear bigger than you actually are. And for $8 each why not pick up a couple pairs??

Lastly, the racer back nautical tank. 

I love this style of tank!! It's cute, comfortable and affordable. This tank, also by Mossimo Supply Co. was $14.99 and came in an array of colors. This top wasn't a necessity but I just couldn't resist. It's roomy, so you can wear it on the days you aren't feeling your skinniest- but frankly speaking, I'd wear it any day. And with summer upon us, this tank is very season appropriate!

The items I purchased I know I'll wear a lot of, which is how I justify most of my purchases anyway. Even if something is under $10 why buy it if you know you'll only wear it once? That's $10 that can go toward something you absolutely love and will wear often. Be smart ladies...and gents :) I'm not saying you shouldn't indulge every now and then in impulse shopping, but just remember that all those little purchases add up! Besides, it's not very fashionable if you have an amazing dinner outfit, but can' t afford the dinner. Till then, stay fabulous! XOXO