I apologize for going on hiatus. But! I finally made it back to the blogging world, much to my own surprise.

Moving right along.

I realized very quickly while getting ready for a fancy brunch this morning, that I resembled a politician, what with my tight no-nonsense bun and form fitting architectural dress. Upon this realization I asked my mom if I looked like I worked at the White House. Her laugh in response confirmed my realization that I did indeed look like I belonged in an episode of Scandal, which I consider a compliment.

Maxi dress. Check.
Sunglasses that are far too big for my face. Check.
Time for an adventure (which entails reading outside by a tree, Frodo Baggins style):




I love a good maxi skirt/dress and it has become almost an essential for this Summer. I've been on the hunt for a maxi dress that I love and I finally stumbled upon this one at work by Lauren Conrad. And if you're short like me and weary of maxi anything then consult my Fashion Myth Busters post.

Thank you for reading. Feel free to leave comments!

Annalise

Every woman knows that a Little Black Dress is essential to a wardrobe, but often times its opposite and equally versatile counterpart is forgotten. The Little White Dress is a perfect Summer staple and when paired with the right pieces can be worn for nearly every Summer occasion (sans weddings). Thus far, I've worn my LWD to work, class, a concert and my sister's recital, making this piece perfect for the hustle and bustle of Summer.

Myth: Short Girls Can't Wear Maxi Skirt/Dresses

A classic favorite of mine that happens to be in this season is the Moto Jacket. Because they are so popular there are so many styles and colors to choose from, than just a black moto jacket. I have perused stores and online shopped until I found my favorites. And here they are:

This Moto Jacket from Delias is a refreshing twist on a classic piece. It has lace sleeves to make it stand out.

This Moto Jacket by Candie's from Kohl's is done in a light pink tweed, which is perfect for someone with a little more girly style.

This Moto Jacket from Forever 21 is one of my favorites. The stud detailing on the lapel makes it different and very versatile.

 I attempted my first sewing project. I bought a pair of LC white flare jeans from Kohl's for 4 bucks and cut them into shorts and hemmed the edges. And now I'm attempting to personalize them by adding a little detail to the sides. I'm not sure if the crochet detail has turned out exactly as I wanted, or if I should change to lace, but total this has cost me 6 bucks, which isn't bad considering a comparable pair of shorts runs about 50 bucks.

I am incredibly excited for this upcoming season of fall fashion. I've been browsing and came up with the main fashion points that designers and stores have been focusing on, to help keep you in style. A lot of what is in this season lines up with my own personal style and I'm ecstatic about it.
PATTERN: POLKA DOTS

LC Lauren Conrad Polka Dot Blazer

American Eagle Polka Dot Tank

STRUCTURE: PEPLUM
Fall in Love with Peplum

Forever 21 Bird Print Peplum

WHAT TO WEAR ON TOP: PETER PAN COLLAR
More Peter Pan Collar

American Eagle Peter Pan Collar Printed Dress

American Eagle Peter Pan Collar Blouse

WHAT TO WEAR ON BOTTOM: COLORED DENIM

Elle Ruby Colored Super Skinny Jeans

American Eagle Skinny Colored Jeans

Being a college student I'm always looking for new cheap places to shop. Here are my favorite places to shop when on a budget:

1. loveculture.com
2. forever21.com
3. asos.com
4. handm.com
5. ae.com
6. abercrombie.com (the clearance section)
7. target.com
8. kohls.com (Lauren Conrad collection)

1. The Printed Short

Printed shorts are very popular this season. With all the different patterns they can fit anyone's style. You can get a regular denim pair with a floral pattern or a high-waisted chiffon pair with polka dots. It all depends on what fits your personal style. Below there are a pair of LC Lauren Conrad polka dot shorts from Kohl's, floral print denim shorts from Target and bright tribal print shorts from American Eagle

2. The Colored Short

These shorts have become especially popular this season. They're great for color blocking and you can also pair them with neutrals, which makes them especially versatile. They come in every color from subdued, to neon, to pastel. So, whatever your favorite color pallet is, you can find a pair for you. Here we have a pair of cut-off shorts from American Eagle the are a more subdued burgundy, and a pair of neon pink shorts from Nordstrom and a pair of short pastel orange from Urban Outfitters. 

 

A very big piece this summer is the tie front shirt. There are so many out there to choose from. I love this style, so I went with a teal lace-back tie-front shirt from Kohl's and paired it with linen shorts and a bandeau to go under it.

For me, jewelry is the last thing I'm willing to spend my money on. So, I've boiled it down to 3 basic types of necklaces that every jewelry box should have to make the most of your accessories and outfits.

     1. The Big and Bold Necklace










 2. A Long Pendant Necklace




































Again with these you may want to choose a neutral color. These go with virtually anything. They can go           over a big sweater or a casual dress. This accessory is never overpowering, but can make your outfit all the   more interesting. 

    3. The Simple Yet Elegant Necklace




 These smaller elegant necklaces are great and I can wear them anywhere. I wear them to work or with just a t-shirt and jeans. They just added a little sparkle to an every day outfit.