When I was "growing up," (I say that as if I've stopped growing up) I went through several different fashion phases. During 6th grade, I went through a tomboy phase-- and not the cute kind. Yikes! In 9th grade, I thought I was an Abercrombie & Fitch model. And, during my senior year, Aerie yoga pants were the only thing I came to know.
Transitioning from high school to college was one of, if not the easiest transitions of my life-- style wise. I wear what I want, when I want, how I want.
The LWD
I've always adored the little white dress; they're timeless. I purchased this one for my high school graduation-- and I've used every opportunity to where it since.
All The Colors
Over the years, I fell in love with Lilly Pulitzer. Her designs are bright and girly. I am bound to make a statement wherever I go. And, I love that.
Pom-Poms
I love tassels. And, I love pom-poms. They're so trendy and fun! Anything with a tassel or a pom-pom has my name written on it!
These are just some of my clothing pieces I go to. I feel the most confident when I'm wearing something that is girly and fun, yet flattering to my body type.
Question of the Day: What's your favorite clothing piece in your wardrobe? A LBD? Or, maybe a fun pair of rain boots? Comment below!
I am so excited about today's blog post; I am helping Vanessa promote her new fitness blog: www.simplehealthhuman.com. It's one of my favorites!!
Over the past couple of months, I've been inspired to be a better version of myself. With that being said, here are some of my tips in order to work towards being the best version of yourself:
Create a feel good playlist.
Music has incredible powers. Instead of listening to sad songs like "Babe" by Sugarland ft. Taylor Swift on repeat, listen to "Can't Stop The Feeling" by J.T. Oh, and "Love Myself" by Hailee Steinfeld! That's one of my favorites. Exercise.
Create a workout plan and stick to it. The creating part is the fun part, whereas the actually sticking to it is the hard part. Once you get into a groove, you won't be able to get out of it. I actually use this app called 7M Women (#NotSponsored). They have a variety of exercises that only take 7 minutes. And, yes, I have seen results. (If you're not into the whole sets and reps thing, try a dance workout! Click here to watch my favorite dance workout!)
Sample Workout (Leg Day):
0.5 Miles in 10 Minutes
Tabata Body (7MW)
Stretch
7 Minute Butt x3 (7MW)
50 Squats
50 Calf Raises
50 Banded Walks (25 each leg)
Post Workout Stretch Routine in 10-15 Minutes
Buy something new. #TreatYoSelf, Girl! You deserve it. Buy that Kate Spade wallet you've been yearning for, or buy those LuluLemon leggings you've been eyeing up since January.
Try something new.
I've been taking up yoga since the year began. (My best friend actually suggested we try it since my college offers free classes.) I ended up really enjoying it. This summer, I've been following along with YouTube videos and Pinterest poses. This upcoming semester, I'm hoping to fit not only yoga into my schedule, but pilates or kickboxing. Trying something new is empowering.
Cut the negative people out of your life.
After I graduated high school, I let go of friendships and relationships that I found toxic. Being constantly surrounded by negative energy left me feeling angry and miserable. Once I got to college, I found a group of friends with positive vibes that totally changed my life. Drink lots of water.
Lots and lots. Victoria's Secret models drink a gallon a day. (I think that's a little overkill, but if you can do it, you rock!) I've been drinking between 48 oz. and 72 oz. a day. It's done wonders for my body!
Indulge in things you love. I love to dance. And, I love to work. I love to help others and volunteer for local organizations. I enjoy spending time with my family and playing silly board game like Trivia Pursuit. Do things you love. Life is too short to not be doing what you love doing.
It's so important to be mentally and physically healthy. Put yourself first. Always. As cliche as it sounds: live everyday like it's your last.
Today, I'm sharing one of my new favorite jewelry brands with y'all: Ana Luisa NY. Ana Luisa is a designer jewelry company. (Some of Ana Luisa's designers have worked for various famous brands like Tory Burch and Ralph Lauren-- two of my favorites!!) Their jewelry is not only high-quality, but also unique. Ana Luisa only releases a limited quantity in order to ensure each piece is exclusive.
Ana Luisa Jewelry sent me these adorable teardrop earrings. They add the perfect touch to any outfit for any occasion. You can dress them up or down depending on the look you're going for. (That's my favorite part about these earrings!) Morning brunch with your family or prom night-- you decide!
They also sent me this layered chain necklace. Which again, can be dressed up or down depending on the look you're going for. I decided to pair it with this floral romper from Hollister for a daytime look. But, you can also pair it with your LBD for a Saturday night on the town with your bae. I love the versatility!
I am absolutely in love with these jewelry pieces. I've been experimenting; wearing the jewelry with a number of different outfits. I'm planning on wearing these two pieces to an Honors Convocation in the fall, and I'm also planning on letting my sister borrow the precious duo for her prom. I feel so gorgeous in these pieces. They're handmade, high-quality pieces that will never go out of style. Checkout Ana Luisa Jewelry for the latest fashion jewelry trends!
Question of the Day: What's your favorite way to accessorize?
I am the queen of summer courses. I've been taking them since the summer before my junior year of high school. I've taken: Introduction to Sociology 101, Introduction to Psychology 101, Public Speaking 101, and recently Concepts of Biology 120. I'm a pro at this! Did I mentioned I got all A's?
In this blog post, you'll learn how to ace your fast paced summer course too!
Get a planner!
Step number one of any task should be to get out your planner. Currently, I am using my Lilly Pulitzer Jumbo agenda. It's important to stay on top of your course material and all of your other summer hobbies.
Go over the syllabus.
The first thing I always do for a class is look over the syllabus. Then, I put all important dates into my planner. Note, during the summer sessions, I've found that most instructors don't always stick to the syllabus. It's hard to judge for 2-4 hours of time, when they usually only have an hour and a half.
Go over the lecture BEFORE class.
Like I mentioned earlier, I took Concepts of Biology this summer. And, I'm not going to lie, biology is not my strongest subject. I read the lecture beforehand to get my feet wet. This way, it was easier for me to follow along when my professor was talking about peptide bonds.
Do the homework as soon as it's assigned. Don't wait until the last minute to do your homework. Chances are you'll fall behind very quickly.
Find some friends-- fast!
This semester I was pretty fortunate to make some quick friends. (But, hey, in biology, you need some friends to help you get through the labs and pop quizzes.) We compared notes and made study guides for the exam. Super helpful!
Try your best.
Yeah, yeah, yeah! I know. Cliche. But, it's true. If you put in the effort, you'll see it in the results.
Question of the Day: Have you ever taken a summer course? If so, which one(s)?
In about a month, I am going to be vacationing in South Carolina. I've never been there before, so I'm super excited! (If you have any must-sees or must-dos, comment them down below!) With that being said, I am starting to make a mental packing list.
Here's what I plan on bringing with me on my summer vacay:
Hunter For Target Duffle Bag
When the Hunter For Target collection was first released, I dragged my mom to the nearest Targets. Unfortunately, most of the totes were over picked. However, I did get my hands on a duffel bag, which is the perfect size for a week long vacation.
Comfortable Clothes
Comfortable clothes are key, especially if you're going to be doing lots of walking (like me). Some of my favorite things to pack:
Nike Shorts
Under Armor Shorts
Khaki Shorts
White Capris
Leggings
Vineyard Vines Tees
Simply Southern Tees
College Tees
Shift Dresses (Lilly Pulitzer)
One pice suit
Bikini
Cover up
2, Maybe 3 Pairs of Shoes (If Your Mom Isn't Looking)
My parents have a rule of only bringing two pairs of shoes: a pair of sneakers and a pair of flip flops. As far as I'm concerned, a pair of boat shoes is also needed. Who's with me?
Sunnies
Clearly the most important item in your duffel/suitcase! I have a pair of Tory Burch sunnies that I couldn't imagine living without. They're classic!
Makeup Bag With ALL The Essentials
Primer
BB Cream
Concealer
Powder
Eyebrow Gel
Mascara
Blush
Highlighter
Lip gloss (x3)
Setting Spray
Tote Bag
A tote bag is great for traveling! You can stuff snacks, a water bottle, wallet, etc. in it. I'm bringing my Michael Kors tote. It holds the perfect amount of "stuff!" (Plus, if you're traveling via plane, it makes a great carry-on!)
Some Miscellaneous Items
Laptop
Laptop Charger
Phone
Phone Charger
Headphones
Camera
That's just about everything I'm bringing, besides the boring stuff like deodorant and toothpaste. Comment below what you must have in your suitcase! (Oh, and let me know if you would like to see a South Carolina travel diary!)
Today, I have a short and simple post for y'all. I'm sharing my favorite songs for the summer season. Be sure to comment below what you've been jamming to lately!
Babe by Sugarland ft. Taylor Swift
2002 by Anne-Marie
Obsessed by Maggie Lindermann
Queen's Don't by Raelynn
LA Girls by Charlie Puth
Familiar by Liam Payne, J. Balvin
Back To You by Selena Gomez
No Tears Left To Cry by Ariana Grande
Singles You Up by Jordan Davis
Alien by Sabrina Carpenter, Jonas Blue
Queen by Shawn Mendes
I Wanna Know by NOTD, Bea Miller
Serious by Hayley Kiyoko
First Love by Lost Kings, Sabrina Carpenter
Worth It by Danielle Bradbery
Let You Be Right by Meghan Trainor
Butterflies by Kacey Mustgraves
Girls by Rita Ora ft. Cardi B., Ciarli XCX, and Bebe Rexha
Girls Like You by Maroon 5 ft. Cardi B.
That concludes this week's blog post. Stay tuned for next week. Remember to comment below what songs you've been loving lately!
Today's blog post is a bit more casual. I'm going to be sharing my goals for this summer. I organized my goals into four different categories: Personal, Blog/Social Media, Education, and Fitness.
PERSONAL Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
Next semester I have a few early classes. I want to start getting into the routine of waking up for those early 8:00 AM classes. Wake up early.
The early bird catches the worm. Isn't that what they say? Travel somewhere.
I want to go somewhere I've never been before. And, I'm actually going to South Carolina. I'm so excited! Plan a romantic summer date.
Maybe a picnic? Leave some ideas in the comments below! Write more.
I want to journal more. I really enjoy it. BLOG/SOCIAL MEDIA Make a video.
Maybe I'll make a travel video or something? I don't know, I'm still playing around with making videos on my blog. However, I do enjoy it! Hit 140,000 page views.
Help a sister out! Work with at least five companies.
Last semester, I took a break from working with companies-- and I kind of totally regret it. But, it was really difficult for me to balance my blog with my school work. EDUCATION Take a summer class.
I am currently taking a biology course at my community college. Oh, boy! (It's gonna be a rough one!)
Read a book.
I just want to read something. Leave suggestions below! Work on my Spanish.
So, I have officially decided I am going to try to minor in Spanish. I'm super excited!
FITNESS
Drink more water.
Drink. More. Water. We're gonna try this!
Workout 2-3 times a week.
At school, I worked out 3-4 times a week. It was great! However, I tend to slack off when I'm at home. So, hopefully I'll be able to stick to a consistent workout routine this summer.
Comment below: What's on your bucket list this summer?
Before I get into today's blog post, I wanted to let y'all know that you can expect a blog post from me every Monday again. The spring semester is officially over-- and I can officially breathe again. I am so happy to be back into the swing of blogging again.
Without further ado, here's today's blog post, a collaboration with Paperless Post:
What is Paperless Post?
Paperless Post is an online platform in which users can design invitations, cards, and flyers.
How does it work?
Users can purchase coins for their e-cards. In exchange for a few coins, you can put together your own e-card or flyer. Even the background of your card is customizable; it's so cool!
Collections
Personally, I am a huge fan of the kate spade new york collection. The collection includes a variety of birthday cards, thank you cards, wedding invitations, etc.
This one has got to be my favorite:
Though this card isn't from the kate spade new york collection, it's still super fun! I'll definitely be sending this card to my sister on her birthday, May 31st.
Just to sum it up for y'all, I am a huge fan of Paperless Post and the company's mission. It's easy and fun! I'm planning on sending some more e-cards to my friends and family this summer. I might even put together some flyers for an event.
I'll be honest: I thought college was going to be a step up from high school. Daunting drama. Fake friends. And, catty cliques. But, it wasn't like that at all. I slid into the crowd with ease. In this blog post, you'll read all about the lessons I learned during my first year of college.
Your roommate doesn't have to be your best friend.
My roommate and I said hello to one another, but we weren't the best of friends. And, that's okay. We were two totally different people. That's the case with some roommates. Don't beat yourself up over it.
Boys. They only want one thing.
As early as my freshman year in high school, I learned this concept. (You can read all about that experience by clicking here.) The same trend carries throughout college. Guys would ask my friends about me and get my Snapchat from others guys. And, they would constantly hit me up and ask to "hang out." Blocked him. And, him. Oh, and this other guy blocked me because I refused to give him what he wanted. It's disgusting.
Before you drink: think! Go to parties and have fun, but be safe. Always put your safety first.
You DO meet your best friend in college.
Unfortunately, I didn't have the best group of friends in high school. I was ragged on by one jealous girl-- who totally killed my vibes. In college, I found my best friend. Shoutout to Erin! Thanks for always being there for me. This year has been a blast being by your side!!
Long distance relationships are hard.
Okay, really hard. I can't thank Kyle enough for putting up with me. As I got more comfortable
in college, I started testing my boundaries. We've had our fair share of downs. But, we've also had our fair share of ups. I learned that communication is definitely important. Don't shut someone out just because you're stressed.
You're capable of a lot more than you think.
You can make tons of friends. You can step out of your comfort zone. You can even be a spy for the Soviet Union during the Manhattan Project era; (it's a long story)!
You need to work for A's.
I worked my butt of this year. And, it paid off. Hello, Dean's List!
Outfit repeats are not federal offenses.
In highs school, I'd rather be caught dead than be caught wearing a shirt I wore 6 months ago. Outfit repeats are a thing in college. And, guess what?! They're 100% accepted! Encouraged, even!
Being homesick is not childish.
I was homesick. A lot. I came home almost every weekend during my first semester. That's okay, too. It gave me time to adapt to college life a little bit more slowly. Unfortunately, if you're going to school on the other side of the country, it might be hard. But, hey, you'll make it work. FaceTime wasn't invented for nothing!
Don't take a professor twice if you didn't like them the first time around.
If you had a professor that you loved and you have the opportunity to take his/her class again-- do it! However, if you didn't like a professor don't take them again. I learned that the hard way. (I thought hey, why not minor in that particular subject!)
Caffeine is your best friend.
Have an 8 AM class? I advise you hit up your school's coffee shop on the way to class. Oh, and you have a class that goes until 9:30 PM? I advise you hit up your school's coffee shop on your way back to your dorm. You're gonna want some sugar in your system to get you through these long days... and longer nights.
Group. Projects. Suck. In high school they sucked. And guess what? In college they still suck. (Sorry mom, I know you hate that word.) But, it's true. Nobody wants to do their part of assignment, so someone-- usually you, has to take over. This one is inevitable. Good luck!
Things happen for a reason.
I've been saying this since my freshman year of high school. Things happen for a reason. You fail a test. You gain an internship. You go to a party. You meet someone new. It's all in God's plan for you to grow.
Checkout what I learned during my high school years:
I am about to finish up my spring semester as a first-year student at Cabrini University. I could not be more thrilled with my experience!
I wanted to share with you the classes I took:
RELS 110 - Search For Meaning
As an honors student, I had to take this class. Cabrini University has a religion requirement, so this course counts towards that core. Overall, I was a little freaked out during the first few sessions. However, as the semester progressed I learned to like the class. And, I actually learned a lot.
PSY 203 - Developmental Psychology I
This class is necessary in order to complete my major. This class focused on how children grow and develop. I really enjoyed writing papers for this class. However, the tests were super hard. Like, A, B, and C all sounded right to me. I can definitely tell you I worked my butt off after that first test.
HENG 305 - The Creation, Fall, and Redemption
As an honors student, I have to take an additional honors class. Coming into Cabrini, I had an English credit. Then, I was put into an English class for the fall semester. I decided to take another English class-- maybe I'll complete an English minor, who knows? I'm already half way there!
ECG 200 - Rethinking Addiction
By far, the coolest class I took this semester. This class counts towards the core curriculum as well. I absolutely loved it! For my signature assignment, I talked about the safe houses Philadelphia was planning to put into affect in order to promote safe drug use.
SPA 204 - Conversation and Composition
Oy vey. Last semester, I finished with an A-. For being the only freshman, I'd say that's not too shabby. Being in 204 meant that I was one of few native English speakers. The majority of my class was made up of hispanic students.
PSY 309 - Abnormal Psychology
Again, another class towards my major. I loved this class! Again, I learned so much-- I know, I know. Who knew you learned so much in college?
Classes I'm Taking Next Fall:
SPA 210 - Intermediate Spanish Social Service
PSY 271 - Stats For Social Sciences I
PSY 202 - Personality Theories
PSY 305 - Social Psychology
PSY 204.- Developmental Psychology II
ECG 300 - Immigration, Law, and Social Justice
In August, I'll probably end up putting together a blog post on why I chose these courses. I'm going to start sharing some of my career path ideas with y'all, very, very soon.
Today, I have a quick and simple post for y'all. (Sorry!! I've been bombarded with school assignments. But hey, when summer rolls around I'll be able to step up my game again.)
I'm sharing my new favorite go to outfit for spring with y'all:
Outfit Details:
Top - Primark
Jeans - Hollister
Booties - Target
Headband - Headbands of Hope
Thank y'all so much for tuning in this week! I am in love with the way some of these pictures turned out. Natalie is absolutely gorgeous! Shoutout to her for being a terrific model for me.
Question of the Day: What's your go to look for spring? Is it an off the shoulder blouse like Natalie? Or, is it a floral maxi? Comment below!
Though spring is over a month away, it's never too early to start shopping for your spring and summer wardrobe. I love amping up my closet with: bright colors and fun patterns. (Just a heads up; you'll see a lot of Lilly P. in this wishlist!)
A navy blue belt is also on my wishlist. I love belts. I think they're a super cute accessory. Not to mention, they keep my pants up. 3. Arriana Beach Please Tote
This tote is too cute to pass up. I love the bright tassels. During the summer months, I find that I carry around a ton more: blotting sheets, deodorant, water, etc. 4. Charming Urchin Bracelet
During the spring and summer months, I like to accessorize lightly. This bracelet isn't going to sweat my arm off.
Lately, I've been obsessed with Tory Burch this and Tory Burch that. These sandals are at the top of my wishlist this season. They'll go with everything and anything; instantly transforming my outfit.
Tassel earrings have been super trendy. I've always thought they were a little too bold for me. However, lately, I've been wanting to experiment with this trend. Maybe if I kept my hair down, they wouldn't be as "loud."
When it comes to bathing suits, I definitely prefer a good one piece. They'e just a little bit more modest. Ya know? I love this solid-colored one. I''d definitely be making a statement while sitting poolside. (I see it now: Classic Ray Bans and a pair of MK flip flops. Do we see it?)
This gold tassel necklace would be the perfect go to accessory during the warmer seasons. I can definitely see myself layering this with some solid colored tops and cut offs. (Comment below letting me know how you style your tassel necklace!)
Comment of the Day: What's on your spring and summer wishlist?
Being a full time college student makes it difficult to be a part time lifestyle blogger. For those of you who are in my position, I'm sure you understand.
Here are some of my tips to help you run a great blog while maintaining an awesome GPA:
Use a planner.
My planner is my best friend. (I'm sorry, Natalie! You're a close second, I promise.) I use the heck out of my planner. My top tip: come up with a color coding system.
SCHOOL
BLOG
FITNESS
LIFE (VOLUNTEER, FAMILY, ETC.)
IMPORTANT
It's a pretty basic system, but I really like it. It helps me stay on top of all of my to do's.
Stay organized.
Keep your work space clean. Keep your planner intact. Keep your computer files in range. If you stay organized, you'll be able to manage more tasks. And, you won't feel as overwhelmed. (I don't work well with a messy desk.)
Prioritize school work.
School, then blog. In high school, I couldn't imagine putting my blog second. However, this time, I'm paying for my college education. It's important that I devote the needed amount of time to my schooling. Devote time to blog.
With that being said, if your schedule allows, block out time to devote especially to your blog. I like to spend Friday afternoons in my school's cafeteria. It's the perfect time to eat and blog, and blog and eat. A few weeks ago, I sat in my school's cafe for 2 hours. I had soup, and a grilled cheese. Oh, and fries! Two orders of those curly things. They're addicting!
Plan blog posts in advance.
During winter break, I like to go to town and plan for a year's worth of blog posts. That's almost impossible, so I settle for the end of the semester. I like to use Google Drive to help me organize dates and blog titles.
Here are some tips to plan for a semester's worth of blog posts:
Brainstorm. Set a timer for 20 minutes and put all of your thoughts on paper. Your bound to come up with some great ideas!
Search the web. The worldwide web is the perfect place find content inspiration. I like to gravitate towards social media, like Twitter and Pinterest. They always have great ideas in stock for me.
Revisit YOUR blog. Scope out your old blog posts for content ideas. Are there any routines you can update? What about a new story you can tell?
Those are all of the tips and tricks I have for managing a blog while in college. Live by your planner. It will make your life 10x easier! Put your school work first and devote a bock of time do your blog 1-2 times a week. And lastly, plan in advance! This is the system that works best for me. What works best for you?
Question of the Day: Do you find running a blog while in school a difficult task?
