Sweet Tarte

When it's sticky and hot out, the last thing you want is your makeup caking up or sliding all over your face. It's all about fresh, lightweight makeup with lasting power. A great product when you are running out the door, but you need something that will last all day is Tarte's Cheek Stain. With 9 shades, you are bound to fall in love with one of them! These stay on your cheeks, and give you a healthy glow. An added bonus? You can use these as lip stains as well! Buy one (or all 9) and stay gorgeous all summer long.

Life is a Carnaval

I don't think words can describe to you the love I have for the Carnaval Bag from Anthro. From the over-the-shoulder shape, to the fringe, to the feathers....it all works! I am on a budget, so I can not splurge on this baby, but I can tell you about it, in the hopes that one of you can call it your own. This bag is so perfect for summer, and just about every activity that goes along with the warm weather. Alright- time to stop gushing! Enjoy the eye candy, and if you can- get your hands on it!

Summer Joys

There is something about spring and summer that makes me shift from more polished pieces, to something a tad more bohemian. Right now I want to be on the beach in Bora Bora wearing all white constantly, and sipping on pina coladas. Although I am not going on a tropical vacation, I can still fulfill my dream of wearing relaxed whites. The Things & Joys dress from Anthropologie is my current love. I will definitely be pairing this with some embellished sandals (maybe with some turquoise thrown in), and a thick brown belt. The dress can be a bit sheer at the bottom, so wearing something like this half slip by Calvin Klein would be a great solution. If you are like me, and adore this dress so much you wish you could have it in every color- get excited! No, you can't get it in every color, but it also comes in a dusty blue- which would look amazing for a summer lunch with friends. Let me know- what is your favorite go-to dress right now?

Images via Anthropologie.com

Cross Body Bags

During the warmer months, it can be a pain to drag around a huge purse. It's warm, and you don't want to be weighed down by a thousand unnecessary items. What's the solution? Small cross body bags! They are stylish, and can hold all the essentials. I really loved this range at ASOS inspired by Alexa Chung. What's so great is that they can easily go from a lazy day at the beach, to a dinner on the patio of your favorite restaurant- without looking out of place. Which color are you loving?

Colorful Creations

Turquoise has always been one of my favorite colors. Ever since I was little, and could never decide between "hot pink, purple, and turquoise". With all the raving about neutrals lately, I thought I would stray from the usual and brighten your (and my) day with some much needed color. Here are some inspiring images from the interwebs that I thought were so perfectly spring worthy. What colors get you excited for the spring season?

Images: Anthropologie, Martha Stewart, and Kate Spade

Flirty Under 30

Hello. My name is Ilyssa and I am on a budget. With the economic climate where it is, it's hard to purchase a $300 item without feeling a little guilty. Fear not fashionistas! There is no 12 step program required to put your wallet into recovery. Old Navy has some great options for spring fashion. All three items above are under 30 dollars (the necklace is under 13)! Amazing! Now you can rock the romper trend, relax in a maxi dress, or amp up an outfit with the layered chains necklace, all while being able to afford a nice dinner. How is that for cheap and chic?

Images via oldnavy.com

Grey's Anatomy

We are all well aware that neutrals are a huge trend for this spring, and with so much spring clothes in stores, it's hard to resist dressing for 80 degree weather. Because I live in LA, I have the option of dressing for spring in February, but for those of you who are in colder climates, you can easily layer spring items with winter and fall favorites to stay warm. Number 1 is aMetallic popover sweater by Vince. It's lightweight fabric is semi sheer, and will carry you into the warmer months. Number 2 on my transitional spring favorite list is the Relaxing Tee by Madigan (from Anthropologie). This slouchy Tee is perfect for a lazy day, worn with raggedy jeans and a hobo bag, or can be polished with a blazer and a fitted skirt. Numero tres is the gorgeous Dresden Moto Jacket from Mike & Chris. The snake embossing gives this jacket an edge, and more spring ready than your all black or brown jackets. Jeggings are everywhere this spring, and the pair in number 4 are perfect for warmer months. The lighter grey color will brighten up your winter wardrobe now, and will fit perfectly with your neutrals and colors for spring. The cutoff shorts featured as number 5 are by Free People. The dark wash pair can be worn with tights now, and show off your legs as it gets hotter out. I love the studded details on the side! Lastly are the only non-clothing item on this list. The Daryl Zip Wedge Sandals by Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent are a great shade of grey, than would look great with nubby tights or socks now, as well as with floaty dresses in the coming months. The gold hardware really makes these a stand out pair.

(Click image to enlarge)

Images from Urban Outfitters.com , Shopbop.com, and Anthropologie.com

Tremendously Transitional

Spring is right around the corner...well, sort of. It's close enough that we can look to spring trends and layer them with our cold weather pieces. This lightweight canvas moto jacket would be perfect worn with skinny jeans and boots now, and equally cute with shorts and sandals during the warmer months. The best part? This is not a piece you need to invest a lot into! Can you believe I found this on the American Eagle website for only $69.50? Now go out and get this tremendous transitional jacket.

Spring Cravings

Despite the fact that it is mid January, I found myself pausing in front of spring clothing windows. Although I am someone who loves the layering options of fall, I find myself, uncharacteristically enthusiastic for spring. One trend that I am loving is safari inspired. The Gap has a great collection out for spring, and I particularly liked the Belted Utility Jacket. It's a lightweight jacket, perfect for chilly spring evenings. Another thing I love (year round) is an armful of bangles. A stylish and budget friendly solution is the Melanie bracelet set from forever 21. When spring and summer finally come my way, I don't always feel like being exposed in a tank top. A sheer button up is ideal if you want more coverage while still keeping cool. Try this breezy button down from urban outfitters. Lastly is the amazing Via Spiga belt from Nordstrom. This waist cinching belt would be beautiful on top of a flowy white dress in the warmer months.

Lazy Weekend

Summertime, and the livin's easy...

Despite the fact that it rained today, I refuse to get out of the summer mindset when it comes to clothing. I only own one of the items in this look (the BDG convertible skirt- which I love) and the rest are items that I wish were in my wardrobe. As soon as I have a job, I think I will be buying the shoes and the necklace. This is essentially, my ideal summer look. 

The tank: Organic roll edge racer tank, from La Carconne. 58 bucks too much to shell out on a tank? There are some great alternatives at Forever 21 and Urban. 

The necklace: Pearl Crown Necklace from Free People. For only 38 dollars, you can get this gorgeous statement necklace! What a deal!

The bag: Sabina Simone Satchel from Urban Outfitters. This stunning leather bag comes in black and a vibrant purple shade, and is sure to be a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. 

 

The Skirt: BDG Convertible Skirt from Urban Outfitters: This skirt is such an easy, go-to piece in my wardrobe, and with so many color choices, you are bound to find the perfect one for you!

The Shoes: Sweet Life by Dolce Vita Lace-Up Sandal. Such a perfect budget-friendly version of the Ann Demeulemeesters! Buy at Urban Outfitters.

Taking A Cue From: DVF

When I was 3 or 4 years old, I was Minnie Mouse for Halloween. Even years after, I would go into my costume box, and pull out that polka dot hair bow, and prance around the house in it- just for fun. I still love many of the things I liked as a child, and often wish that I could incorporate my childish desires into my wardrobe, without looking foolish (I am only 5 feet tall- and could be confused with an actual small child). Who else, but my sartorial soul mate- Diane von Furstenberg, would make giant hair bows, so sophisticated? Every season, I look to DVF's runway and wish I had every piece in my wardrobe. For the past few seasons, DVF has included some amazing hair pieces to go with the outstanding clothing, and her most recent show is no exception. If you are like me, and don't have the most padding in your wallet, a great DVF bow alternative is this 'Jersey Bow Headband' from Urban Outfitters. This sweet headband is budget friendly, and comes in 3 colors. If 18 bucks is out of your price range, try DIYing a bow with your favorite scarf or a big piece of material. All I know is that I am a very happy girl, knowing that I can sport a giant bow on my head, just like Minnie.

Valley Of The Doll

I recently was the assistant stylist on a photoshoot for Who What Wear (you can see the story by clicking HERE). It was an amazing shoot, and I got to work (for the second time) with Angela Fink- a fantastic stylist. I just wanted to share with you guys some pictures from behind the scenes of the shoot. 

Forget what they say...

Forget what they say.

I am a girl who lives in black. These items are my current lusts: 

Towwer booties

Raceyy booties (god I love you so)

Studded clutch (how cliche of me...again with the studs!)

Michael Kors watch

I'm a Motherlover, You're a Motherlover

Hellooooo all! I have been playing around with the whole DIY jewelry thing, and have come to the conclusion that I can rock when it comes to anything with chains, charms, and jump rings (I put clasps on everything I make)...but I suck with anything string related! I just made these and know I will be wearing them a ton. The first was this GORGEOUS geode thing- I have no clue what type of stone it is, but I am in love with it. It is an amazing periwinkle color, and looks as if it were torn from a huge rock. There is a ton of texture to it. The next necklace I made has a peace sign and  an elephant on it...I love elephants! I bought some other charms, and stones, so when I make those, I will let you know. Let me know if you want me to make you something, and if I have enough requests, I will set up an Etsy account for them. 

The title is sort of random, but I can't get that song out of my head! Check it out here!

Adventures in Target!

I think the best invention next to toilet paper is target. That place has EVERYTHING! If the world comes to an end...that is where you will find me! I recently went to the magical superstore to pick up a few household items, and ended up making some personal pampering purchases (say that 10 times fast)! The first picture isn't of a purchase...just the view from my corner, on the way to 'tarjey'. Can you spot the hollywood sign? YAY! You Found it! hahah!  So down to the good stuff: 2 adorable nail polishes in fun colors- perfect for toes and fingers of the daring! The neon green comes out looking like a highlighter, but I am okay with that. The Mediterranean body scrub was one I had seen in the shower before, but that was because my old roommate owned it. She loved it, so I thought 'why not?'- it's delicious! Exfoliated so well, and preps my skin for going to the Bahamas (not actually going to the Bahamas, but that's what I call it when I use self tanning lotion)! 

Now, if you'll excuse me I have a date with some Jergens tanning lotion... 

Here Comes The Bride....and the graduate! *update*

Since the last post, I have realized that this dress that I am going to buy for the wedding in July, should serve more than one purpose. I am going to wear the same dress to my college graduation! Fortunately for me, I go to a fashion school, so I am pretty sure we can wear whatever our hearts desire. In addition to the dress in my last post, I also love these dresses. My absolute favorite is #2. It is the Whitney long chiffon dress from J Crew, and can be found here. #3 is the Jenny Wrap Dress by Diane von Furstenberg. The print is vintage, but the dress is new. I love this dress. probably not for this occasion, but just for life! When it eventually goes on sale...it's mine! Lastly is numero uno, the Ascend Dress, from anthropologie. I like the slightly bohemian vibe, and it strikes me as appropriate for both occasions. Now it's your turn to give your say! What do you think? 

Crazy About: DVF

Despite the fact that it's been quite a long time since the spring collections came out, I find the hippie in me keeps finding inspiration from the Diane Von Furstenberg Spring collection. The juxtaposition of ethnic prints, and floral details is so whimsical, and I am completely obsessed with the headpieces. Obviously, you can DIY the headpieces with some ribbon and faux flowers, but for those who would rather just put down a few bucks for a pre-made piece, I have found 2  fabulous DVF- inspired options. The first is the Gold Dust Flower Headband from Free People. Its pretty gorgeous, no? And for 24 buckaroos, it won't put too big of a dent in your wallet. The next option is a tad more expensive, but handmade from an artist on Etsy (just click to check it out)!  

From your wannabe hippie,

-Ilyssa

A Few Favorites

My mind is currently flooded with desires for a romper. My boyfriend thinks I am a little odd because I am occupying my free time stalking all rompers online. It's clothing porn at it's finest. The one I want the most is this little lady from Topshop. I also love this pair of sandals from Tory Burch. They remind me of sting ray skin! Last but not least is the beautiful bracelet by Jill Golden. The cluster of turquoise mixed with the tarnished chain had me from hello. 

Topshop 'one shoulder playsuit': $90.00 -  topshop.com

Tory Burch 'Reid' ankle cuff sandal: $310.00 - nordstrom.com

flutter by Jill Golden 'Gracia Natural Turquoise'  bracelet : $350.00 - shopbop.com

Top 5: Statement Jewelry Picks

I am a person that loves the Autumn season because I feel like layers of clothes looks far better than a little tank top and shorts. Despite my pleading with the man upstairs, the world still gets hotter ever year, and I am forced to wear the lightest clothes possible in order not to die of overheating. If you are like me, and need something to make your summer wardrobe pop without adding bulk, Never Fear! Statement jewelry can add complexity to an otherwise simple outfit. Today I give to you my top 5 picks for statement jewelry pieces.

1. Giles & Brother 

   'Irular Collar Necklace'  -  $540.00  

    shopbop.com

2. Marquis & Camus Brooch

     style # 6FBC12

    $185.00 (used to be $265.00)

    www.marquiscamus.com

3.  Urban Outfitters

      'Dreamers Bracelet' - $28.00

       urbanoutfitters.com

4. Jacquie Aiche

    'Double Prong Geode Ring'- $255.00

     shopbop.com

5. Gara Danielle 

    'Green Turquoise Ring' - $180.00

    www.my-wardrobe.com