Hosting

(mimosa with mint leaves and mixed berry ice cubes)

At my current stage in life, I know I'm far off from properly  hosting guests for an evening, but that doesn't mean I can't improvise from a college student standpoint or take in inspiration from events I've attended. Since I seem to be moving residences every year, I have neither a consistent amount of kitchenware to count on nor standardized dishes and silverware. Honestly, I'm getting ahead of myself since I can barely cook, but a girl can dream! One day I'll be able to grill chicken without it sticking all over the pan...

This past year in college, my roommates and I managed to host two get-togethers at our then-aparment. We kicked things off college style with a Halloween party, which we not-so-cleverly named "Monster Bash," and provided candy and punch. Costumes were mandatory (obviously), and we even gave out a Torchy's Tacos gift card for best costume of the night. It was pretty successful save the police scare, but I learned not to worry about every small detail and just made sure to float around to talk to everyone who attended since I wanted everyone to feel welcome and included. We also hosted a dinner party for Galentine's Day, and while it was nothing fancy, it was nice to just celebrate quality friendships.

I had the opportunity to attend a farewell party for a dear friend a couple of weeks ago, and there was a gourmet hot-dog station that was both eye-catching and delicious. It made me think about how the most basic foods can be made into something exciting with just a few extra touches. I hope I remember to start simple next time there's a chance to host a gathering.

(decorative display of hot dog toppings)

 (hot dog buns with rosemary sprigs and assorted relishes)

Before Sunrise

Last night my roommates convinced me to watch Before Sunrise (100% from critics!), a romantic drama about two people who meet on a train and spend a day together exploring Vienna and as well as each other's thoughts, quirks, and histories. I was very impressed by the movie; it's mainly conversation based with very little action, but the acting is terrific. It's definitely a deeper and more philosophical romantic feature and made me think about those taken or missed impromptu chances in life and where they (could have) lead. This is the first installment of a three part series, and the last part just released this past May. I'm definitely going to finish the other films when I have the time.

The film came out in 1995, and the fashion trends of that time are very obvious in the film. I hated Ethan Hawke's hair, but I understand that was probably due to the 90's. On the other hand, Celine, the French student played by Julie Delpy, wears a combination of a brown drop-back maxi dress layered over a simple t-shirt with a flannel button-up tied carelessly around her hips. Interestingly enough, I can definitely see women today wearing a modern version of her outfit. While I may not be tying shirts around my waist any time soon, I've definitely seen the trend on other bloggers and off-duty models. Personally, I would love to be able to rock a drop-back maxi dress (like the one below) as effortlessly as Celine.

Topshop Dress

Floral Flow

Romper (from overseas; similar), F21 Sweater

My aunt bought this romper for me as a souvenir/gift when I visited Taiwan a couple of years ago (where I also got this romper). It's funny that the only two rompers I own are both from Taiwan, and they're still some of my favorite pieces in my closet. I'm honestly surprised they've lasted so long through all the extensive wear  I've put them through. I decided to change it up this time and wear the bottom of the romper as shorts by knotting a sweater on top. As soon as I walked outside this morning, I was immediately thankful for wearing a sweater as the weather was slightly chilly due to the rain. In retrospect, I guess I was channeling the Zara flowing shorts (here and here) I saw while online shopping (can you tell I've been kind of obsessed?).

My Picks

1 // 2 // 3 // 4

Ever since I've had to start shopping for (casual) work-friendly clothing, I've been on the lookout for pants whenever I go shopping. As someone with a short and fuller lower body, finding pants that fit properly is an arduous task. The only pair that have really fit me right off the bat were mentioned in this post. That being said, a girl can still hope for other pairs of pants that fit! Printed pants (in the form of trousers, jeans, and even khakis) can be seen in just about every retail store for women. I think the trick to pulling them off is to find a pair that has the correct fit and pattern for your body type. For me, a fitted ankle is crucial to avoid adding more weight to my legs. I'd say purchasing printed pants is a big step for me since I always lean towards solids, but I'm always willing to try new things (keyword: try). I've picked out some of the trousers I've been eyeing on the Zara website (bonus: they're all on sale!), but I'm still debating whether I should take the plunge or take a chance that they'll later be reduced even more...

(Note: I know option 3 isn't printed, but I really liked the leather trouser's zipper detailing on the side)

Flashback

New York & Co. Peplum Top (similar), J. Crew Scout Chino, J. Crew Belt, Vince Camuto Sandals, F21 Sunglasses

Today has just been filled with little reminders of the past. For example, I took an exam via Scantron, something I haven't seen or used since graduating high school. What I wore today is oddly nostalgic as well. While the nostalgia isn't in the typical sense of fondly looking back, it made me realize that my taste has definitely evolved over the last 4-6 years of my life. My younger self used to scoff at anything leopard printed and stray far away from peplum (I just couldn't imagine how it'd be flattering), and look at me now, wearing both at the same time. That being said, when I (as a 14 year old) said I'd be shopping at J. Crew in my later years, I wasn't kidding. I was inspired by this image (below) on tumblr to purchase a peplum top. I think the simplicity + texture got to me; either that or peplum complements her extremely slender figure perfectly, tricking my mind into wanting one, too. As for leopard print, less is definitely more; I think I like the pattern as an extra embellishment to an outfit.

image source

Music Under the Sun

credits // 1 2 3 4 

The school year has ended, and I'm on summer break! Work and summer school have not begun, so I'm taking advantage of my free time by getting accustomed to the apartment lifestyle, working out, and doing some poolside reading. As the days go by, one of the highly anticipated events this summer slowly approaches. Houston's annual Free Press Summer Festival is coming to town June 1st and 2nd, and the lineup is pretty terrific (and eclectic!). Just to name a few, I'm particularly excited to see Passion Pit, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and Calvin Harris.

In addition to providing great music, music festivals also give us the opportunity to have some fun with fashion (not that we can't do that everyday anyways). I've definitely been brainstorming hot + humid weather-friendly clothing, and here are my top options:

1 // I'm absolutely in love with basically anything Olivia Palermo wears. She manages wear outfits that look effortless but completely put together. Her breezy tank top + maxi skirt are great options to beat the heat. I would also advise wearing comfortable shoes as well since music festivals require quite a bit of walking and standing as well as a pair of sunglasses.

2 // I really love the crochet pattern on the cropped tank, which is both aesthetic and practical for keeping cool. The patterned high-waisted shorts give her outfit a dash of fun, and the crazy sunglasses scream fun in the sun.

3 // This outfit seems to be a classic in music festival fashion. You can't go wrong wearing high-waisted jean shorts, a bandeau top, and a cover-up!

4 // I would not advise wearing a long-sleeved blouse in Houston during the summer, but switch it out with a sleeveless blouse, and you're good to go. Jean shorts pair fantastically with any sort of white top. While wearing short boots may seem illogical in the summer, they may save your toes from the countless people that may step on them; they would also incorporate some edge into an outfit.

I won't lie; I'm probably just as excited about dressing up for FPSF as I am for the performances!