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

Neon Nautical

Ann Taylor Blazer, J. Crew Tee (similar & on sale!), Gap Shorts (similar), F21 Sunglasses

I decided to brave the cold (classroom) today and wear shorts. To balance that out, I made sure to layer on more durable elements on top. The tee is actually a thicker material, and the blazer ($10 Goodwill find) added another layer of warmth. I'm sure most people thought I was crazy for wearing a black blazer on such a sunny and humid day, but as long as I can make it through class, I'll do whatever it takes. The sunglasses I wore today resemble the iconic Ray-Ban Wayfarers; Wayfarers don't frame my face properly (or please my wallet), so I was thrilled when I saw a budget-friendly substitute at Forever 21 that had a more flattering fit. In my book, $6 is better than $150+ any day.

Sheer Cut

Nasty Gal Cut-Out Blouse, American Rag Jeans, Aerie Lace Bandeau, Urban Outfitters Belt, Ray-Ban Aviators, Naturalizer Penny Loafers

The weather today was extremely humid, so wearing a sheer chiffon blouse was probably not the best idea. The blouse is probably one of the few "edgy" pieces in my closet as I tend to play it safe when shopping (I'm trying to branch out) It has two cut-outs in the back near the shoulder blades and a slight high-low hemline. I already own a plethora of button-up blouses, but I reasoned with myself that this blouse would be a unique addition. I aimed for a casual yet streamlined look, so I paired the blouse with some light-washed jeans and penny loafers.

Comfort in the Classroom

 

  

   H&M Top, Gap Khakis, Vince Camuto Sandals

I tend to wear pants or jeans during the weekdays just because I'm in class for four hours a day, and the rooms are too cold to handle (I am extremely sensitive to cooler temperatures, unfortunately). It's always a struggle finding pants and jeans that fit me properly since the lengths are usually too long or the ankle areas are too loose. When I found these skinny mini skimmer khakis from Gap, I knew I hit the jackpot and was willing to pay a bit extra for them since I knew they would be a versatile staple. The khakis end slightly below my ankle and have a relaxed but fitted silhouette. I cuffed them today for a more casual look and wore a pair of black sandals for comfort. For work attire or something dressier, I'd pair them with a white blouse, blazer, and nude flats.

Something To Look Forward To

Gianni Bini Dress, Kate Landry Crossbody, Fossil Watch, Vince Camuto Bangle, LC Lauren Conrad Platform Heels

I've never been in the habit of having brunch (I actually can't remember the last time I had brunch), but for this week, my friends and I decided on a brunch outing at Benjy's as something we could eagerly anticipate. What better way to explore the city of Houston but through food; you really can't go wrong with trying out new cuisines and enjoying the ambiances of each restaurant. Ambiance has become a much bigger factor for me when choosing restaurants just because many restaurants in Houston do a fantastic job on making their places unique. The restaurant experience has turned into a feast for both my taste buds and eyes!

Here's to the rest of summer and a little something to look forward to each week.

A Different Kind of Sandal

1 // Dolce Vita; $158

2 // Ted Baker London; $200

3 // J. Crew; $198
4 // Marvin K; $350
5 // Zara; $70
6 // Prada; $720 $423 (on sale)
7 // Valentino; $745 $447 (on sale)
8 // Sam Edelman; $100 $70 (on sale)
9 // Rachel Zoe; $295 $118 (on sale)*

Since I'm vertically challenged (5'2"), I appreciate any sort of heel, whether it's 1 inch or 5 inches. As much as I'd like to wear heels every day, I know my feet would not be thanking me for the treatment. Luckily, the trend of a lower and chunkier heel is up and coming. This means more support and comfort for your feet while still adding a bit of height to your shoes! Now all I need to do is find a pair that are reasonably priced for my college student budget.

*As much as I'd like to purchase all of these shoes I've showcased, I just want to clarify that these prices are sadly but definitely out of my price range (even at $70). I chose these shoes because I feel they are perfect examples of this type of heel.

Weekend Recap

My lovely roommate and me

Passion Pit greatly exceeded my expectations

As close as I could get to Calvin Harris

Free Press Summer Festival was exhausting but such a great experience. The weather was actually bearable (particularly the second day). I'm already looking forward to the announcement of next summer's artist line-up!

What I wore (unfortunately not pictured):
Day 1
Cami: Aerie (similar)
Shorts: Levis (similar; mine were a thrift store DIY)
Bandeau: Gilly Hicks (similar)
Sunglasses: F21 (similar)
Shoes: Gap x Keds (similar)

Day 2
Top: F21 (similar)
Shorts: AE (similar)
Bikini: Victoria's Secret
Sunglasses: F21
Shoes: Call It Spring (similar)