What's In My Beach Bag

Hello hello, my loves! One of my favorite posts to read/videos to watch are "what's in my bag." Maybe it comes along with being obsessed with bags, but I love to see what the rest of you all use! I decided to do my own "what's in my bag" series. First up in my little mini series is my beach bag! Over the next week or so, I'll be posting more. I hope you all are as excited as I am!

Usually I use my trusty Longchamp as my beach bag, but I received a Lilly Pulitzer Shoreline Tote for Christmas this past year, so I've been that a go this summer! The Shoreline Tote is the perfect beach bag! My only complaint is that it doesn't have a zipper or anything for the bag to close. But other than that, I love it! It is definitely my new go-to beach bag. 

I'm not a cover-up/tunic fan. Columbia's PFG's are perfect for when you don't want to throw a cover up on, but don't want to run around the beach in just your bikini. They're cute (even cuter when they're monogrammed) and extremely comfortable! 

Whenever I head out to the pool or lake, I ALWAYS put my Lifeproof case on my phone. Seriously, this case is heaven sent. This is my second summer using it & I have yet to have any mishaps with it (knock on wood). It's absolutely worth the $80. 

My current read is WGP's Psychos. I read the first book a few summers ago when it first came out & I loved it, so I was super excited to read this when I heard a sequel was coming! (Side note: If you enjoy the WGP series, check out "Nice is Just a Place in Paris" by @betcheslovethis). 

I never thought I'd be one to shell out close to $200 on a pair of sunglasses. But my Ray-Bans are worth every single penny. They've outlasted quite a few tumbles, and still look nearly new over years of use!

What are some things that can be found in your beach bag?

xoxo

5 Things I've Learned During College

A new school year is unfortunately approaching us very quickly. To gear up for that, I wanted to share with you all 10 things that I've learned my last four years in college. Take notes, these apply to everyone whether you're entering your freshman year, or your senior year (or 5th year like me, cheers to all of us 5th year seniors out there!!! Sense the sarcasm...)

1. Take more than 12 credit hours a semester if you want to graduate in four years. I remember scheduling with our advisors at orientation, they kept telling us over and over again to not take more than 12 credit hours. Never once did I have an advisor tell me that if I want to graduate on time, to take more than that. Shout out to the lovely faculty at my school. 

2. Get involved on campus. Whether it be a sorority, a sport, or a campus organization, get involved! Not only will it look great when you're looking for a job, but you'll meet some great friends! And who knows, maybe even make some connections you can utilize later!

3. Reach out to your professors. If you're anything like me, this sounds painfully awkward. I'm the girl who'd rather figure things out on my own than email a professor for help. But seriously, put the awkwardness aside. Find a professor who's approachable and create a relationship with them (lol wait that can be taken wrong, strictly business/classroom). You never know when/if you'll need them for a recommendation letter!

4. It's okay to change your major. It's a terrifying realization that you've had a change of heart about your career path mid-way through college. You're worried about spending an extra few years as an undergrad, the extra money, what your parents may think, etc. I'm here to tell you that it's okay. It's perfectly normal and happens way more often than you'd think. Yes, you'll be stuck in college a few extra years, and yes, you'll be spending more money. Do not let the fear of starting over trap you in a career path that you will be miserable in. A few more years will be worth it in the end. 

5. Join an organization related to your major. This goes hand in hand with #2 and #3. Check out what organizations are available on your college campus! Getting involved in an organization in your majors department has many advantages. I can't tell you how much more I LOVE being Pre-Law since I've gotten involved in Moot Court. Moot Court has given me an amazing opportunity to really see what it would be like working as a lawyer, I've also met so many judges and lawyers! 

Do you have any tips you'd like to share?

July Favorites

Hello lovelies! It's hard to believe that summer is nearly over, it feels like it just started yesterday! Let's all hope that August won't fly by as quickly as the rest of this summer has! But let's be real, we'll all be sitting in class before we know it. On a less depressing note though, I've been loving quite a few things this month & I've been so excited to share them all with you! Sooo, without further adieu.....

One // J.Crew Fringed Fan Necklace: If you all remember from my J.Crew post a few weeks ago, I snagged this beauty for an amazing $2.99! Yes, you read that right, $2.99!!! The weather where I live as been a bit colder than it should be, so I've been able to break out my chambray shirts and this necklace accents them perfectly.

Two // Tory Burch Marion Crossbody: This has been my go-to purse lately! It was a lot smaller than I anticipated when I ordered it a few months ago, but I have grown to love it. It's the perfect size for when you're out on the go and won't be bringing much with you. It has credit slots in it, so I just throw my phone and keys in it & I'm ready to go!

Three // Kate Spade Agenda: I decided to break away from my usual Lilly Pulitzer Agenda's this year and give kate spade a try. I've been obsessed with polka dot's lately, so this was perfect for me. I've been so busy with getting ready for the LSAT and briefing cases for Moot Court, I already have my August full! If you're on the fence like I was about which agenda to buy, definitely give kate a try!! 

 Four // Dance Moms: Growing up a dancer, I had to watch this when it first premier a few years ago and I've been hooked since. It is definitely a guilty pleasure of mine. As much as I sit there shaking my head at most of it, I can't turn it off. I felt as though it was appropriate to give one of my favorite shows a little blog love as the show premiers tonight.

Five // Columbia PFG: I've (finally) been spending a lot of the time at the pool and lake over the last few weeks. I was so excited to break out my PFG! I definitely prefer using this as a cover up vs a dress/tunic. They're super comfortable, and surprisingly very cool as well! Unfortunately, mine isn't monogrammed (yet).

Six // Target Mossimo Sandals: These have easily become one of my favorite sandals!! If you all remember from my haul post a few weeks ago, I was dying to find the glitter pair of these sandals. I lucked out and found a pair about a week and a half ago. I wore these out with my parents this past weekend, and after a long evening of doing nothing but walking, they were to my surprise extremely comfortable! You can't go wrong with an adorable and comfortable pair of sandals!

What were some of your July favorites?

Friday Five!

Happy Friday everyone! This summer is flying by, but I couldn't be happier that it's finally the weekend. It has been one crazy and hectic week. Here are a few things I have been loving lately:

one // Botched 

I cannot believe how addicted I have gotten to this show. Being a Real Housewives addict, I had to give it a try seeing as both of the doctors are OC & Beverly Hills (well, former) husbands! I definitely didn't think it'd become a favorite of mine whatsoever, but I can't get enough of it. If you're squeamish like myself, you may have to flip the channel a few times here and there but that has yet to pull me away from me. If you haven't given it a chance yet, I definitely would recommend it!! Watch it Sundays at 10PM on E!

two // Estee Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Mascara

This is hands down my holy grail mascara. I've never been to pay for high-end makeup, but I received this as in a Lilly Pulitzer Gift bag and I fell in love. This almost never clumps or dries out, it's absolutely worth the $27 (or something like that) a bottle! I highly recommend to definitely give it a try!

three // J.Crew Baseball Sweater

I picked up this beauty for $14 the other week during J.Crew's big Clear the Clearance Sale, and I have never been so obsessed with a sweater before. I've worn it at least four times in the last week (oops), it's so comfortable I don't want to take it off. It's extremely soft and cozy, I ordered it a size up so it would have an oversized fit. I cannot get enough!!

four // Essie Mod Square

This is definitely one of my favorite colors, it's all I've been wearing lately! I get tons of compliments whenever I wear it too. Essie's formula doesn't seem to have good consistency, but I'm so impressed with this color! Definitely recommend it!

five // Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

The holy grail of all sales. If you haven't checked out this sale... RUN, don't walk, to your nearest Nordstrom store or check it out at Nordstrom's website NOW. There are some great deals going on, and prices go up August 4th, so go grab these steals while you can! I have quite a few things on my list that I'll hopefully be getting my hands on in a few days (crossing my fingers they still have everything I want)!

What are some things you're loving this week?

  

Batiste Dry Shampoo: Review

                  

Hello lovelies!! I'm back, I haven't left the blogging world yet! It has been one crazy week. I started studying for the LSAT (finally) and also began to get cases together for Moot Court this year. It's depressing  to think that another school year is creeping upon quickly *sad face*. Anywho, if you all remember from my haul post a few weeks ago, I picked up Batiste Dry Shampoo from TJ Maxx! My L'Oreal Dry Shampoo had finally run out and unfortunately it was discontinued so I was on the hunt for new dry shampoo! If your hair is anything like mine, you can't seem to go a day without washing it before it gets greasy. I've heard people rave about the Batiste line, and it was reasonably priced, $5.99 at TJ Maxx and I believe its original price is still under $10, which I didn't think was bad. I'm extremely hesitant to buy expensive hair products in fear of it not working exceptionally better than other brands that are much more reasonable. 

So I decided to give it a try! I'm definitely jumping aboard the Batiste bandwagon train because it works great! The other dry shampoo's I have tried haven't had the greatest smell, but this one (Blush) smells amazing! I have always had trouble getting rid of the white residue with other brands, but with a little bit of rubbing and brushing, it comes right out! And then, voila! Clean hair! It also gives my hair volume and body, where with other dry shampoo's, it just felt left my hair flat. I would absolutely recommend trying this out!!

Thanks for reading! Let me know what you think of the Batiste line!

Back to School Essentials: College Edition

Hello lovelies, Happy Hump Day!! We're halfway through the week and I could not be happier! I know you're all already thinking, isn't it a little too early to be planning back to school essentials?! Sadly, we are closing in on the end of July which leaves less than a month until school starts for me (and that also means my boyfriend will be heading back to school 12 hours away... tear.) Back to school shopping is definitely one of my favorites, and the only thing that makes me look forward to a new school year! Here a few things on my essentials list:

What are some things on your back to school list?

Lake Fun

This afternoon, my parents and I went spent a few hours out at our lake cabin. It was a bit too cold to swim or take the boat out (you'd never guess it was mid July. Thanks, Mother Nature), so we just spent some time hanging out on the dock! Every time I go out there, I forget how much Iove it out there. It's been in our family long before I was born, so it brings back great memories spending time out there! Here are a few pictures I wanted to share with you all:

Hopefully we'll get some good weather this weekend so I can finally take my boyfriend out there while he is visiting!

Tory Tuesday: Wishlist

Hello everyone, I hope you all are having a good start to the week! For today's post, I thought I would feature one of my favorite designers, Tory Burch, for Tory Tuesday!! Here are a few things on my wishlist:

Double-Wrap Logo Bracelet // Kerrington Cross-Body // Reva Ballet Flats // Kiernan Riding Boots // Thea Cross-Body 

Are there any Tory Burch items on your wishlist?

TMI Tag

Hi everyone! Since my blog is still fairly new, I thought I would help you all get to know me a little better with an TMI Tag post! I hope you all enjoy, and keep the tag going by posting this as well!

1. What are you wearing? Norts and an oversized t-shirt. What else? Am basic.
2. Have you ever been in love? I'd have to say that I currently am in love!
3. Ever had a terrible breakup? I have not, luckily! *knock on wood*
4. How tall are you? 5'0", the short jokes never seen to subside.
5. How much do you weigh? Don't you know that you never ask a lady how much she weighs? *insert sassy emoji here*
6. Any tattoos? Absolutely not. I'm terrified of needles.
7. Any piercings? Ears!
8. Favorite show? RHONJ & PLL are the two shows that I watch religiously!
9. Favorite bands? They're not really a "band" per say, but Keith Urban & Brad Paisley are two of my favorites!
10. Something you miss? Cheesy and cliche, but I definitely miss my childhood.
11. Favorite song? I actually don't have one. I don't listen to the radio much when I'm not in school so I'm not up to date with the newest songs.... Sad, I know
12. How old are you? I don't know about you, but I'm feeling 22! Thanks, T-Swift!
13. Zodiac Sign? Sagittarius
14. Quality you look for in a partner? Honesty, obvi & he has to be able to communicate well.
15. Favorite Quote? "Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same." Emily Bronte.
16. Favorite Color? Pink & mint!
17. Loud or soft music? Depends on my mood, but usually loud!
18. Where do you go when you're sad? Whenever I'm having a bad day, I LOVE to just curl up in bed, turn on an old TV show, and just forget about whatever may be bothering me. It never fails to help.
19. How long does it take you to shower? When I'm rushing I can easily take a 5-10 minute shower, but usually I like to linger in there for a good 20 minutes
20. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? Once again, it all depends. I don't usually do anything with my hair when I'm heading to class, so I can get ready in about 20-30 minutes or so. But, if I'm full-out getting ready to go out, it takes about an hour. Typical girl.
21. Ever been in a physical fight? Ha.. Ha.... Definitely not.
22. Turn on? I'm a sucker for a good smile!
23. Turn off? Arrogance. Ew, bye.
24. Fears? Corny girlfriend answer here, but losing my boyfriend. And snakes. I have a seriously phobia of snakes!
25. Last thing that made you cry? Sinus headache yesterday, haha I'm a wuss you guys, I know!
26. Last time you said you loved someone? A few hours ago to my sweet man!
27. Last book you read? PLL Toxic, SUCH a good book. Y'all definitely need to read it asap if you keep up with the book series.
28. Book you're currently reading? Do LSAT books count?
29. Last show you watched? Game of Crowns!
30. Last person you talked to? My momma!
31. The relationship between you and the person you texted last? My boyfriend! Complaining about how much I miss him while he's at work, per usual!
32. Favorite food? Chicken & pasta. Hands down. I could eat chicken fingers and pasta for the rest of my life and be completely content.
33. Place you want to visit? I'd love to see Cali!
34. Last place you were? Ran to the grocery store to pick up dinner!
35. Do you have a crush? I mean, I guess you could say I have a crush on my boyfriend ;)
36. Last time you kissed someone? A few weeks ago. Hashtag LDR probs.
37. Last time you were insulted? I actually don't remember!
38. Favorite sweet flavor? Vanilla! I'm way more of a vanilla fan than chocolate? Am I even a real girl, right?
39. What instruments do you play? Ummmm, none. I was not blessed with any musical talents, unfortunately.
40. Favorite piece of jewelry? My pearl necklace I got from my grandmother a few years back! I love it.
41. Last sport you played? Soccer in high school?
42. Last song you sang? Probably something from Frozen lolz
43. Favorite chat up line? I have absolutely no idea what this means! Sorry guys!!!
44. Have you ever used it? .....
45. Last time you hung out with anyone? This past weekend!!

I applaud you if made it this far! Thank you SO much for reading!! I love getting to know all of you, so if any of you have any get to know me posts or if you copy this tag, please let me know in the comments!

Favorite Summer Polishes

Happy Sunday everyone, I hope you all are having a fabulous weekend! I have yet to do a post about some of favorite colors this summer, so I figured what better time than now. I am a complete Essie addict. I feel like a complete traitor if I buy any other brand (although, I am slowly becoming an OPI fan. GASP!). I always look forward to the neon collection, and this year was no disappointment! I notice a lot of people complain about how Essie's neons aren't really "neon", but this year I've found the colors really pop (especially "I'm Addicted"). If you haven't checked out the neon collection yet, definitely do so. You won't regret it!

Vice Versa / Too Taboo / Chills and Thrills / Sittin' Pretty / Serial Shopper / I'm Addicted 

J. Crew Factory Clearance Sale

Hello lovelies! If you don't know already, J.Crew is having a huge clearance sale now, take an extra 50% off! I've done way too much shopping lately, so I was trying to ignore the emails I kept receiving about it, but I broke down today and finally browsed through (hoping that since the sale started days ago they wouldn't have much left and I wouldn't be tempted. HA, yeah right!). I found two pieces that I just couldn't pass up, and couldn't wait to show you!

 

1. Fringed Fan Necklace: Okay guys, seriously go jump on this amazing deal right. now. This necklace retails for $52 and it is on sale for $5, PLUS half off!!! How can you say no to that?! I've always thought the fan necklaces were adorable, so as soon as I saw the price on this I just could not pass it up.

2. Airspun Striped Baseball Tee: I bought the regular Baseball Tee when J.Crew was having a $35 and under sale, and I haven't been able to take it off. This shirt is SO soft and comfortable, I'm in love! So when I saw the Striped Tee's were on sale for $14, I had to get myself another one!

So, if you haven't checked out their sale yet, go do it now! It runs through July 13th!

Mini Haul!

Hi everyone!!! Happy Thursday! For the last few months I really hit a dry spell in my shopping habits. But over the last month, it has really picked back up. It's safe to say that I might have gotten a little carried away, but I couldn't help myself!! I am so excited to show you all my finds! 

1. Vineyard Vines Patchwork Shorts: I found these beauties last week at... (wait for it, wait for it...) Tj Maxx!! I was completely shocked & about died of excitement when I came across the Vineyard Vines tag in the shorts rack! Especially considering that Vineyard Vines is nonexistent where I live. I came almost guarantee that I am one of the very very few around here who even knows what Vineyard Vines is. So I definitely could not pass them up, plus they were originally $88 and I got them for $30!

2. Mossimo Sandals: I've been eyeing these shoes for the last few months, however every time I would look for them in my local Target store, I could never find them. To my pleasant surprise, while looking for a pair of wedges at Target the other day, I noticed them on the clearance rack! How could I pass them up when I had been searching for them, AND for $10?! I just couldn't. Now, if only I could find the glitter ones...

3. Kate Spade Berkshire Shoulder Bag: Okay, so I bought this like a month ago but I still had to add it in this post! This is easily becoming one of my favorite bags! It's the perfect size, it's not big and bulky, but holds much more than you would think! I can fit my Rebecca Minkoff wallet, Ray-Bans, esos, and my cell phone and it doesn't stick out and look "stuffed!"

4. Kate Spade Notebook Set: I convinced myself that if I bought a cute notebook, I would actually start to begin studying for the LSAT & finally get going on my case briefs for Moot Court. Well, much to my dismay, it turns out these were MINI notebooks. I considered returning them and just getting the Gold Polka dot notebook, but I decided to keep them and use them for jotting down any important thoughts or notes & taking them with me when we begin to argue at the court house! They're the perfect size for it!

5. Lilly Pulitzer Eliza Dress: I am obsessed with this Lilly dress! It is SO comfortable (it's a t-shirt dress, so it's 100% cotton) and has such a relaxed fit! If you ever consider ordering one, definitely size down! It can easily be dressed up, or dressed down with riding boots in the fall, or a nice pair of sandals! It is also only $98, which isn't bad for a Lilly dress, and it absolutely worth every penny! I'm so excited to wear this more often!

Have you found any good deals lately? Thanks for reading! 

Goodbye Juicy

Hello lovelies, Happy Monday! I don't know about you all, but I'm looking forward to Friday already! To make your Monday a little bit more bearable, I have a bit of a humorous post for you all. Let's all pay tribute and mourn the loss of the once beloved Juicy Couture. If you haven't heard by now, Juicy Couture is (finally) closing it's doors. RIP Juicy.

It feels as though 2005 was just yesterday, and you'd see middle school girls crawling around in their Juicy Couture sweats with their T-Mobile Sidekick cell phones (my, oh my, how trends change). Who didn't love Juicy? It was socially acceptable to dress like a complete bum in a $200 sweatsuit, and still be trendy & fashionable. I mean, if you didn't own a Juicy sweatsuit where you even a real basic white girl of the early 2000's? It was a bit of a necessity, Juicy was the staple piece to wear if you wanted to prove that you were more hotter/richer than the rest of your classmates.

We also can't forget about the infamous velvet "Daydream" handbags. Once again, who were you even if you didn't own of these?

 

So, thank you, Juicy Couture for allowing all of us prepubescent girls to channel our inner Paris Hilton & giving our dad's heart attacks when they noticed the words "Juicy" written on our butts. Sorry Juicy, but nothing good lasts forever. We'll miss you. And if you aren't ready to part ways with Juicy Couture, the brand will be coming soon to your nearest Kohls stores.

Favorite Handbags: Part Two

Hi everyone! Here is Part Two of my Favorite Handbags post! I hope you all enjoy!

                                             

What are some of your favorite handbags in your closet? Stayed tuned this week for a mini haul post! I am so excited to share it with you all! Please let me know if there anything you'd like to see me post!

Preppy Girl Tag

Hi everyone!! I hope you all had a wonderful Fourth of July! I've seen this tag on numerous blogs & YouTube Channels and I always thought it would be so much fun answering! I'm so excited to finally be able to do this fun tag now that I have my own blog! So, without further adieu, let's get it started....

What is your definition of preppy?
I'd have to say that my definition of preppy would be a very classic and timeless style. However, being "preppy" is more than just a style, it's a lifestyle.

What is your all time favorite brand?
Clothing wise, J.Crew and kate spade, accessories wise! Hands down.

What is your favorite Lilly Print?

It's a tie between Tusk in the Sun & First Impression! (I think Lobastah Roll is a soon-to-be favorite as well!!)

Who is your favorite preppy YouTuber?

SarahBelle93x, duh! 

Sperry's or Jack Rogers?
I have the hardest time breaking in Jack Rogers & I prefer Tory Burch Miller sandals over Jacks anyway. Sooo, I'll definitely have to go with Sperry's! I love mine!

Opinion on Oxfords?
I'm just going to assume this is talking about RL Oxford shirts, & I love them!

Jeans or Khakis?
Are chinos or leggings an option...? I'm not huge on either, but I'll go with jeans!

Duck Boots, Riding Boots, or Hunter Boots?
I have all three & wear them all religiously for different occasions/seasons, so it's too hard to pick a favorite! Riding boots are my go-to's in the fall, L.L Bean Boots in the winter & obviously Hunter Boots when it's raining!

Navy or Black?
Navy is every preppy girl's neutral, duh.

On a scale of 1-10, how much do you love J.Crew?
Ummm, a million???? But seriously, I'm obsessed with J.Crew!

Favorite Lilly item?
Callahan's definitely!!! They're so comfortable & add a splash of color and Lilly to a simple tshirt and shorts outfit!

Favorite Ralph Lauren item?
My Ralph Lauren Alexa Sandals! I purchased them last summer & they've easily become one of my favorite pair of sandals!

Pearls or Bows?

I've never been much of a bow wearer so I'm going to have to go with pearls. What's an outfit without a pair of trusty pearl earrings?

Thank you all for reading!! This was so much fun to do! To keep the tag going, post this in your blog & comment if you do! I'd love to read! 

xoxo

Wisdom Wednesday

Hi everyone! As I was scrolling through my Pinterest board earlier, I was inspired to do a "Wisdom Wednesday" post, featuring some of my favorite quotes that get me through my rough days! Hope you all enjoy!