What I NEED...

A few things I need (or just really, really, really, want!)

What do you need? Or just really, really want?

Keepin' It Real

What's the best fashion advice you have ever heard? Recently magazines keep urging us to wear what is comfortable and what is most familiar. While I love testing the limits (sometimes...baby steps) I am definitely most comfortable in a cardigan, jeans, a button-down shirt and flats. There is something about the comfort of all these individual pieces; funnily, the simplicity of all my fashion staples combined creates a pretty polished and glossy look. Today I am "keepin' it real," totally simple:

Cardigan: H&M, Button-down: Verve, Jeans: Forever21, Flats: Steve Madden, Watch: Michael Kors

If you are "keepin' it real" what do you wear?

Hat Trick

No, no I am not wearing a hat...but you know, since this is my 3rd post of the day (is that weird?) I am pulling a Hat Trick!

*Disclaimer: A hat trick is when a player (ie: hockey, football...not as in a boy who "gets with" a ton of ladies) makes 3 great feats in a single game (ie: goal, touchdown, etc.), follow?

Anyway, I wanted to quickly post what I wore today or else it would be lost in the files of my computer...I have been so busy lately and new outfits will come and overshadow my current ones, therefore I must document greatness (wow, that's vein...I probably think this post is about me).

*Disclaimer: Carly Simon reference! 

  The "busyness" is making me so tired, but I will force myself to go out and have some fun + drink pitchers of white sangria tonight! Today, at my internship I wore:

Blazer: Forever21, Turtleneck: Ralph Lauren, Jeans: Forever21, Shoes: Steve Madden ballet flats, Belt: Forever21 braided, Watch: Michael Kors, Bracelet: Nordstrom's

That's it...3 posts in 24 hours is a lot...I guess I just love blogging, so sue me!

Have a great Friday Night!

I Love a Bargain

Nothing gets me in a better mood than a good deal...and I got TWO good deals yesterday. The first one being the blazer I am wearing in this post, on sale for $5.00 from Urban Behavior (score!) and the second, free pitchers of Sangria & Tequila shots at Charlie O's last night! This outfit is what I wore to the bar last night, which turned to be one of the best nights out that I have had in a while...

Blazer: Urban Behavior, Tank Top: Target, Jeans: Forever21, Wedges: Forever21 (gifted from S, my photographer!), Watch: Michael Kors, Necklace: Love Shack (store in Delray Beach, FL)

This outfit was comfortable and casual, but I still felt pretty and confident because I was wearing some pretty amazing wedges! What makes you feel confident?

Freezing in a Fedora

Hello Beauties!

(Gotta keep everyone going strong with positive affirmations!)
Today was another great day filled with the gym, shopping, and some delicious food (okay, the same things I always eat but delicious nonetheless).

I went with my mom and sister to Forever21 tonight and they had some great stuff. Don't you love that store? It's perfect for trying out trendy pieces without spending a ton of money on something that may be a one-wear-deal.
I snagged some black skinny leg jeans (which seem to tuck well into boots...let's pray for no saggy knees), as well as a pair of black twill harem trousers. Oh, and let's not forget the major purchase of the night, a FEDORA!


I have always wanted a fedora, but they always reminded me of Britney Spears tabloid photos, you know the ones with her rockin' cutoff jean shorts, high socks, Ugg boots, a distressed Ed Hardy t-shirt, huge aviator sunglasses and a FEDORA...and don't forget the Starbucks cup.
Don't get me wrong, I love Britney, but due to this mental image I couldn't buy a fedora no matter how many I tried on and/or fell "in love" with. I use the words "in love" loosely, how many times have you gone shopping and exclaimed "Oh-my-gosh, I LOVE THAT!"?

Back on topic; so I tried a fedora on at Forever21 and fell in love with it!
It is called the "Chic Knit Fedora" and it is chic and lovely. Now you are probably thinking, "Cassie, why are you buying a fedora in December?"
Well my dear readers, I can answer this question in two ways:

1. It looked good and like I said, I have never found a good-looking fedora...on me at least.
2. I am going on vacation to visit my grandmother on Wednesday, nothing says sunny days in Florida better than a fedora!
3. Oh...one last thing, I found out I am going on a cruise for Spring Break with a bunch of my sorority sisters, and I will definitely need a fedora when cruising through the Bahamas!

What do you guys think? Do you like it?
I hope everyone had a great day, mine got better as the day went on. Tomorrow is going to be filled with packing for Florida, but I will definitely make time to blog!
xoxo.

Liar, Liar Pants on Fire!

Welcome to my post filled with lies!
Okay, fine I am not lying, but I kind of am....let me explain.

This morning when I woke up I looked out my window as I simultaneously checked my igoogle homepage. I wanted to scope out the weather and I read that it was going to be 70 degrees with a chance of rain. I looked outside, and it looked mucky but it wasn't raining. I got dressed, creepily caught E in the bathroom and asked her to take my picture and walked outside to my car. Then I realized, that it wasn't random leftover droplets flying off tree leaves hitting me in the face, but actual raindrops falling from the sky...IT WAS RAINING! My outfit no longer complied with the weather and I ran upstairs to change. So while the pictures E took were what I started off wearing I had to change it up...
Just know that I swapped my flats for Sperry boat shoes, my long black cardigan for a short black one, un-tucked my shirt, ditched the belt and put on a raincoat.

But here I go describing what I intended to wear today...before Rhode Island rain decided to make it's self a part of my day. I started off with my half button gray beaded J. Crew T-shirt that I got at the outlets about 2 years ago. I don't wear it as much as I'd like to but I had a presentation today and it is a very "sophisticated" t-shirt (or at least that's what I tell myself.) In my opinion, J. Crew just can't go wrong. Everything they design is comfortable and classic. Every time I wear a piece from J. Crew I have a huge smile on my face! And have you seen their catalogs? I love every element of the company: from the colors to scenery they use. I especially love how the movie cast of the Romantics was featured in the past catalog (have I mentioned how much I love Katie Holmes? Major girl crush!)
Okay, so on top of the t-shirt I am yet again wearing my GAP long black waffle cardigan. It really is just the most perfect length and totally comfortable. I think I live in it...I wash it though, I promise! Okay, so I am also wearing my dark wash BASS jeans. I love the company BASS, and they have some great pieces, I also love that their shoes are being featured more and more in major fashion magazines and also sold at Urban Outfitters. I have been wearing BASS for a while, before most people even knew what it was (My Grandfather worked for the company, hello corporate discount!) and I love how the brand has become more fashionable. Lastly, I am wearing my GAP denim ruffle ballet flats. They are seriously worn thin because I lived in them this past summer but I just can't seem to get rid of them. However, since I can now feel the street below my feet when I strut around campus I am thinking they must go to the big shoe grave in the sky. The good news about this is that now I can look for a new pair...Tory Burch Reva flats in copper anyone?


So far on this murky day my clothes are different than I originally photographed (I had a disclaimer about this on my blog so you were forewarned!), and I have had my eyebrows freshly waxed.
So despite the weather I am having a pretty good day.
I just want to end this post giving a special shout-out to one of my best friends
RACHAEL ROSE
who is the big 2-1 today!
We celebrated last night at Charlie O's but the "Rose Bowl" continues! I can't wait to celebrate with you.
Love you one million red M&M's!
"Matrix" on Thursday!

Fashion Blogger Hits the Mall

So yesterday I hit the Providence Place mall with my roommate S. We decided that we needed some retail therapy since boys make us crazy. Girl time at the mall is definitely the best medicine for confused and breaking hearts. I wanted to go to Forever21 and Nordstroms so that is exactly what I did. While I fawned over all the expensive and beautiful items in Nordstroms, I reminded myself that I do not have unlimited funds and if I do buy the $200 Steve Madden combat boots, I will not be eating for the remainder of the month. While I did realize that Halloween is approaching and it is likely I can subsist on candy, my inner health guru reminded me that I need carrots, apples, and veggie burgers, and the boots will have to wait until I am rich and fabulous! I bought earrings and a bracelet at the BP for Nordstroms section (young adult clothes that are so much cheaper than the contemporary line but still cute!)

For my mall adventure I wore my black stretchy Forever21 leggings that I always post about as a base. On top of that I wore a long sleeve gray Kenzie t-shirt that I got at Marshalls for $10 (great purchase). I wore a Charlotte Russe denim vest on top of that (borrowed from my dear friend S, thanks again!) and brown Minnetonka moccasins. The outfit was very comfortable which is great when shopping at a mall because you are constantly trying clothes on (well at least me and S always play dress up!)

I love the mall, there is something about it: the shiny glass windows calling my name, sale signs, tons of beautiful colors and draped fabrics, I don't know but it is love. I just hate spending money which I why I came up with a rule for myself. Everything that I buy I must think of ways I will use it. If I can not come up with 3 different ways then I CAN NOT, I repeat CAN NOT buy the item!

The day was really fun and much needed. I spent a lovely evening with my friends as well and now I am hanging out, lazy Sunday style. Although, today me and my roommate E went apple picking with our sorority sisters! It was really fun, we got some great Suncrisp apples (if you do not know what they are, get them and eat them immediately!) Hope everyone had a great weekend! Enjoy the rest of the day!

PS: Does anyone freak out about not exercising every day? I know this is a fashion blog but I figured I'd ask. You know strong fashion sense, strong body, strong mind? It's my mentality on life. Let me know!

I Dream in Jean-y

Good Morning! How is every one's day going so far? Mine is great: the sun is shining, the birds are chirping and my mind keeps drifting back to the Kid Cudi concert I went to last night! It was a great concert, and I must admit although I am not the biggest Cudi fan, he is a great performer with amazing stage presence. I went with my roommates and one of my roommates friends from home (and a ton of her school friends!) In total there were about 25 of us and that always makes for a great time. Sadly, I do not have an outfit post from the concert last night because we weren't allowed to bring cameras in, why I do not know! I definitely wouldn't have gotten a close up of the Kid because I was way up in the nosebleeds but still I wish I had some photos to remember the night. I guess I will just focus on my outfit today and what I am wearing.

I wanted to wear jeans today, but I was in more of a comfy leggings type of mood so I wore my favorite stretchy pair from Forever21, you know the one that aren't see through, GOTTA LOVE THOSE! On top I wore my relatively new Jean long sleeve button down from Bass Outfitters, which is a cool mix between J. Crew and L.L. Bean. It is a really relaxed, and laid back brand that has special statement pieces every season, this season it is all about embellished sweaters and JEAN SHIRTS! I also decided to wear my GAP jean ballet flats with ruffle detailing, which are cute and girly but still sophisticated and classy. While I usually don't wear oversize shirts and leggings without a cinched waist, it just felt right to let the shirt flow today. When I left the house I also decided to put on an over sized black waffle sweater from the GAP (not pictured) with a gold headband (flea-market find & also not pictured). Sorry for the picture mishap, I caught my roomie E earlier in the morning, begged her to take my picture and didn't think to add the last bits of the outfit until I ran out of the house.

My hair is straightened today! I decided to give it a little something extra, but the makeup is natural and basically the same as always. I keep experimenting with new eyeliners and need to find something that glides on smooth (brown color only), but been having trouble finding something. I have tried Pixi, ELF, Revlon, Bonnebelle, and nothing seems to be working out for me, any suggestions? I would really appreciate any suggestions.

Newport Living

I try to post my outfits on the day I actually wear them, however today I am posting a day late...but I have a good reason for my tardy post, I promise! Yesterday was Columbus Day aka no school on Monday! Therefore I went to the gym, relaxed and headed for Newport with my roommates (minus Elora who was home for the weekend, we missed you!) This was my second time in Newport during the long weekend, and I always love going, minus the botched Oktoberfest situation. Anyways, we decided to wander along the water and just soak up the sun. I still can't believe how beautiful it has been lately, warm and sunny, smelling like spring even though we are slowly approaching the highpoint of autumn. I always love watching the season change, especially to fall because I love seeing the changing colors of the leaves.

For my outfit today I really wanted to channel my inner classy-chic New Englander. I know I am originally from New York but I just love the style elements of New England: it's comfortable, relaxed, and always respectable. I decided to wear my black long sleeve pocket t-shirt that I got at Marshalls on clearance for $5.00 (and yes people you read that correctly). I always post about my amazing deals and finds at Marshall's and TJ's but this weekend I hit the mother load. I was stressed about upcoming work, boys, and my future (I am a senior eek!) and I just needed some retail therapy and this was one of my purchases. I also got a pair of cargo skinny jeans that I can't wait to post about. I paired that top with my Forever21 $13.50 skinny dark wash jeans that basically mold to your body. They legitimately suck you in so well, and for such a cheap price I stock up whenever I go there. Disclaimer: I have worked through about 5 pairs so far, they do not have such great wear and tear but they are a great deal and are easily replaceable. Did I mention they were super comfortable. I tucked the black t-shirt into my jeans with a studded brown leather belt from Hollister (worn in post here) and I really like the contrast of brown and black. I only tucked the front part in, I'm not sure why but I have been seeing that look a lot in magazines lately and wanted to give it a go. I think it adds the sophistication of wearing a shirt tucked in but relaxes the look a lot! Lastly, I wore my Stuart Weitzman tangerine flats with gold details that I got at Marshalls this summer for an astounding $99.00. I know that may still sound like a lot of money but they retail for $350.00 so I snatched these bad boys up quicker than you can say "cash or credit?"

I kept the hair really wavy, I let it air dry in the car while driving over the Newport Bridge, with the windows down and music blasting! Me and my friends danced in the car all the way to Newport and I had such an amazing time. The weekend always puts me in a great mood and I never really have a case of the Mondays. Since now Tuesday is Monday this week things may get confusing (is hump day still tomorrow?) But I have a great week ahead of me and I am seeing Kid Cudi tonight, he is preforming at my school. Maybe I will do a concert outfit post later on today. I can't believe I am not posting my outfit that I am wearing right now, but I guess that means I can wear it again and talk about it eventually (I am not a huge outfit repeater, just a little bit of one).

That makes me think of the line in the Lizzie McGuire Movie (yes girly I know):
Kate: Lizzie McGuire you are an outfit repeater!
Lizzie: Well your an outfit remember-er and that is just as bad!

Bye for now, enjoy the beautiful weather, I will be! I think I may even go to the beach!

Oktoberfest in Newport

Today was a beautiful day! Me and my roommates decided to go to Newport for Oktoberfest, which is essentially a giant drinking celebration on Thames Street! Since it was so nice out (& it's October, holy cow!) I decided that I wanted to keep my outfit pretty casual and airy. The festival is in Newport, which is on the water, and the temperature can range from scorching hot to freezing cold (even on a beautiful day like today) so it was necessary to wear pants! While I wish I wore a skirt or dress, I don't need the wind blowing up my skirt, thank you very much!

I paired my Bass denim dark wash jeans with a layered tank top look. My bottom layer is a stretchy black tank from Target and the top tank is a gray pocket tank from Old Navy. I think solid color tank tops are the best investment ever. You can pair them together or as a layering piece for t-shirts (long or short). They also work great tucked into skirts or under dresses for a little more coverage. When I find tank tops I like (like the ones in these photos) I stock up in every single color! Also a little tip: if you like the style of the tank get some in a larger size as well because the slouchy look is really in. I also like to work out in big tank tops so they are really versatile! I topped the tanks with a black lace vest from Topshop! Topshop is the mecca of British Fashion and the stores opened in the US within the past two years. Everything is hand picked and selected by British fashion icon Kate Moss! Everything from Topshop seems amazingly cool and chic, I just love going to that store. Lastly, I wore my Cynthia Vincent for Target sandals that I wore in this post. They are so comfortable and match everything. I love the gold stud detailing, it is subtle and really subdued.

I just love going on these types of outings with friends! Me and my roommates are really all about experiencing all aspects of Rhode Island since we are seniors and don't have much time left (MAJOR SIGH!) I am just so lucky that I have these wonderful ladies to travel and make memories with. We are going back to Newport for Oktoberfest Part Deux tomorrow so I know that my weekend will consist of great times with great friends, plus a little bit of beer. What are you guys doing this weekend? Anyone else going to Oktoberfest?

My Grandfather's Legacy

I know this is a fashion blog (so I promise to get to the fashion soon) but my family went through a really difficult time this past weekend and I think it will help me to write about it. My grandfather passed away on Friday, and I went to his funeral this past Sunday. While the whole event was overwhelming and sad, I heard something at his service that is relevant to all of our lives, every person leaves behind a legacy; big or small every individual leaves something behind to be remembered by those who loved them.

In my case it is my grandfather's wedding ring. After the service my grandmother gave me his ring and placed it on a gold chain, something that I never expected or thought I deserved to ever have. A wedding ring is a huge sign of commitment and love, and although she has many other mementos of my grandfather, it was very special that I was given it out of the four of his grandchildren. The gold ring hangs on a dainty but sturdy long gold chain and I will never lose sight of it's significance or importance to me and my family. It is a constant reminder of the legacy that my grandfather bestowed upon me.

Sorry about the minor tear-jerk, but this post revolves around the ring (now a necklace) so it deserved a honorable mention. As for the rest of my outfit today...When I woke up I saw the rainy, murky Rhode Island weather that I always pray NOT TO HAVE! I just can't stand the rain on campus, it floods everything and the one lane on 108 is constant traffic 24/7. So far, we are not at the extreme of the floods of last Spring semester, so let's keep our fingers crossed. I wanted to dress comfortably and casually, especially since the chance of more rain is high.

Although I own very nice Hunter rain boots (we are in Rhode Island and you would be a fool not to have a pair), I don't like how I feel walking in rubber boots; I feel stiff, sticky, and tense in my legs and I hate that feeling so I chose to wear my weathered and most trusted pair of shoes, my SPERRY TOP-SIDERS. They are boat shoes and literally are so comfortable they feel like you dipped your feet into butter. I have gone through about 3 pairs and will be a Sperry devotee forever, I highly recommend them, they are perfect for walking in the rain or shine and they always look "vintagey" and effortlessly cool. As for clothing, I wore a faded glory 3/4 sleeve flannel shirt. It is a half button down (I posed a half button down earlier in the week, I can't get enough of them) in a faded tanish-camel color. I love this color because it is such a great neutral you can pair it with anything AND I DO!

Word to the wise: Only buy clothing that you can think of getting multiple uses out of in colors that you constantly wear. Statement pieces are fun sometimes but I always go back to my trusted classics, they make me feel comfortable and protected.

As for the rest of the outfit, I paired my sperry's and top with my favorite pair of BASS strait leg jeans in a medium wash. I love jeans and can completely sympathize with people saying they have a hard time finding the perfect pair. I have tried them all and have recently discovered BASS which is a part of a company that also owns IZOD, Tommy Hilfiger, and Calvin Klein (all stores which have great pieces that withstand the changing fashion industry- classically cool!)

Lastly, I topped my outfit off with the necklace that my grandmother gave me which holds my Grandfather's ring. This is really special and does seem to top off my outfit in the most perfect way possible. Anytime I wear it I will think of how lucky I am to have had him in my life for 21 years! He was a great and stylish man and he will always be missed and greatly loved by my family.

This post is dedicated in his honor.