Real Life Wear: Serious Stripes

WHAT: Target cardigan, UO striped shirt, Gap boyfriend jeans, Charlotte Russe flats, AE long necklace, gifted short necklace, unknown belt.

WHERE: First day of Tues/Thurs classes all semester. Even though it's freezing outside, I only have one class on these days and it's not till 3:30, the warmest time all day (albeit not really that warm), and so I opted to cuff the jeans.

WHY: Most of the time when I'm getting ready I start with one piece and go from there. Today I really felt like wearing my long necklace from American Eagle, so I opted for an outfit that wouldn't compete with it too much. The stripes and color palate seemed a little serious that day, so I tried to keep them relaxed by pairing them with some relaxed boyfriend jeans I don't get the chance to wear that often. I have a problem with visual proportion, and this cardigan has somewhat of a looser, "boyfriend" fit than most women's cardigans, so I gave in and did the whole Katie Holmes (sorry, Cruise) bit with my loose jeans. Too much loose just doesn't show a girl in her best light, you know?

Real Life Wear: Gimme a great big, Texas style, YEE-HAW

WHAT: Billabong pumpkin shade sundress, Grandmother's cowboy boots, Aeropostale denim jacket and Charlotte Russe yellow shades.

WHERE: One of my first days of class I had some down time on the Quad, which resulted in me having a little too much fun with my camera. I may or may not have had a few people pointing at me as I took numerous self portraits, but that's the price you pay for style. Haters.

WHY: It's still hot here in VA and we're trying to get the most out of our summer as we can. This means pooling it on the weekends and sunbathing between classes on the Quad, so since I work all weekend and never see anything but the inside of the Roadhouse, I figured I'd take advantage of the sun while I could. These suede cowboy boots I found in my Grandmother's closet, who recently passed away, and every time I wear them they make me smile because of how amazing and fabulous a person she was. I strive to resemble her, and make her proud of me. Even if it means having outfit haters. Haha. =]

Real Life Wear: Maxi-mum Effect

WHAT: Black print maxi dress with chiffon overlay, purchased at Belk (southern department store) for about $45. Worn with black gladiator sandals and my Charlotte Russe sunglasses.

WHERE: Took a brief little runaway vacation to the beach with my good friend, J, and that night after a few luxurious hours in the sun I went with her family to dinner at Philip's seafood house and out to put-put and go-karting. I wouldn't recommend go-karting in a maxi dress... although I still managed to beat J, I may have flashed a couple people on the sideline. Regardless, she kicked my ass at mini-golf.

WHY: The breezy overlay of this dress is perfect for a warm summer night out. It has such a romantic feel to it with the blue flower print, especially when it ruffles in the breeze, and the strapless design is fantastic for showing off your newly acquired summer glow. Also, I love maxi dresses for the minimum amount of effort they require and the maximum amount of style they deliver. I imagine this dress would be perfect for occasions from date night to family dinner to, of course, mini golfing. =] But maybe not go-karting.