September Playlist

I am in complete disbelief that it is the last day of September. This month completely flew by and I am now in total school mode. I got really back into Spotify this month and have been listening to all sorts of music. I honestly still watch the Wildrest Dreams video on a daily basis- if you have not seen it yet you are seriously missing out! I have been loving driving around and listing to these songs this month after school to kind of de-stress before starting homework. This playlist is very varied and perfect for a calmer morning or night, or some others that are fun to crank up. What songs have you had on loop this month? 

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Weekend Adventures

This past Sunday, Julianna, our friends, and I went apple picking together. Apple picking is always such a fun fall outing and such an easy adventure. It was pretty chilly in the morning, so we all brought out our fall outfits! The orchard was so pretty and it is always exciting to pick your own apples and climb up into the trees. We filled our bags to the brim and probably tried a bite of every apple that exists. I am so excited to bake some yummy apple treats or make apple sauce soon!

So far, junior year has pretty much been as stressful as people make it out to be. The weeks are so busy, crammed with assignments, meetings, and extracurricular activities. This past weekend, I had a cross country meet on Saturday and a ton of homework that I had to complete on Sunday. Although I could have stayed home and maybe gotten an extra few hours of sleep, going out and enjoying the day with my closest friends was a far better choice. It's so important to say yes to things in life. High school goes by so quickly and you really want to make the most of it. Trust me, you won't remember the days you spend at your desk pining over rigorous assignments, but you most certainly will remember the adventures spent with friends! Did you do anything fun this weekend?

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

Monday Motivation

images via

Happy Monday! 

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Friday Favorites

TGIF! This has been the first week back at school that seemed never ending. I have been extremely busy between xc, school work, and meetings for clubs and apologize for no post yesterday. I had a test in every class this week and am so glad that it's over and I can enjoy the weekend! TGIT returned last night and I can't wait to play catchup tonight!

One: Olive Green

I have been loving olive green this past week and hope to incorporate more of it into my wardrobe for the fall! 

Two: Denim

Jeans have been my go-to this week, as the temperatures have definitely dropped and the mornings can be super chilly. Last weekend my friends and I went out to lunch and then did a little shopping and of course we had to stop in at Madewell. 

Three: Throwback

Honestly, I failed at posting on Instagram this week so here's a little throwback to the pretty gowns in Harrods.

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Fall Bucket List

images via

After summer, fall is by far and away my favorite season. I love the crisp mornings, all things apple and pumpkin, and of course the amazing foliage that New England is known for. Everything is so colorful and absolutely breathtaking! I have seen fall bucket lists on a bunch of other blogs and thought it was a fun idea, as I had previously done one for summer. There are so many activities to do during the next few months and hopefully I can cross a few of these things off the list. My friends and I go apple picking almost every fall so I am looking forward to doing that soon! What are you looking forward to this fall?

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Denim + Army Green

shirt | shorts | clutch | bracelet | belt | necklace similar | shoes similar 

This look is something very different than what I would typically go for, but I am loving it! The combination is slightly edgy but super chic. This summer, I gained a new appreciation for neutrals. Being in Europe for two weeks and living out of a carry-on suitcase, I was able to figure out what simple essentials really were and how you could create multiple looks with one piece. That's where these shorts come in, I bought them for a concert in May and never imagined that I would wear them so much. Once I realized how freaking comfortable they are, I started to pair them with different tops and found them to be super versitle. 

This outfit is perfect for those warmer fall days, as it is very light weight but incorporates the darker hues and prints. When I was in Italy, I bought these snakeskin sandals and have pretty much worn them to death. The print adds a pop to an otherwise simple look and can easily be transitioned into cooler days. What is your go-to transition look?

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Booties

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

 6 | 7 | 8

9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13

Recently, I have found myself lusting over booties for the upcoming fall months. Although I do not have any at the moment, I am on the hunt for the perfect pair! They make a simple outfit look so chic and can offer a little extra height if you opt for the heel. I also really like how they are far less clunky than the traditional riding boot. I have picked out my favorite 13 pairs in a variety of colors, styles, and price ranges. My birthday is in November and I think a black pair will be at the top of my list! Are you a fan of booties?

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Five Movies I Can Watch Over and Over

A few days ago when my friend Clare asked for a movie recommendation, it really got me thinking about what my favorite movies are. I think everyone has those films that they could literally play five times in one day and still not be sick of. I primarily like romantic comedies and am a sucker for classic, sort of cheesy, Hollywood romances. Also, if I haven't laughed out loud in the first few minutes of a movie, I know it probably doesn't have a shot at making it onto this list. However, there are always exceptions. None of these picks are super recent, but to me great movies are timeless. Let's begin the countdown!

5. Fools Rush In

Chandler Bing is that you? Yes, in fact it is! This movie was released when Friends was at its peak and Matthew Perry brings so much comedic charm to this adorable romance.  I've seen this movie 20+ times, have never gotten sick of it, nor will I ever. The ending is perfect and never fails to bring a smile to my face. This truly is the ultimate rom-com. 

4. Baby Mama

First off, who doesn't love Tina Fey and Amy Poehler? These two ladies are absolutely hilarious in this movie. The story follows a single business woman (Tina Fey) who decides to have a baby through using a surrogate (Amy Poehler). With crazy adventures and lines that will make you laugh so hard you cry, Baby Mama is a feel good movie and an must see.

3. The Devil Wears Prada

Considering this is a movie about the cut-throat fashion world I'm sure many of our fashion-loving readers have already seem this film. Starring Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, this movie follows Hathaway as a young journalist, aspiring to get ahead by working for Streep's character, a cold, intimidating fashion magazine editor. My favorite part about this movie has to be all of the gorgeous clothes, shoes, and accessories, the actors wear as they look the part at a high fashion magazine.

2. Definitely, Maybe 

I love this movie so, so much. Starring Ryan Reynolds, it follows a father (Reynolds) as he tells his daughter the story of how he met her mother. Told primarily in flashbacks of Reynolds' character's love life, this adorable movie has a great cast and is both funny and sweet. I watched it just last week and was reminded of how much I love this film and its perfect ending.

1. 13 Going on 30
It has becoming a running joke between my friends and I about how obsessed I am with this movie. I really like Jennifer Garner as an actress and the unique plot line has to be my favorite part. If you haven't seen this quirky rom-com, it begins with Jennifer Garner's character making a wish on her 13th birthday to be "thirty, flirty, and thriving", only to be shocked the next morning when she wakes up and realizes her wish came true. This movie is on channels like TBS or TNT frequently, so look out for it next time you're channel surfing for something good to watch.

What are your go-to movies?

xoxo,

Julianna 

Preppy by the Sea

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday everyone! This was my first full week of school, so I am beyond ready for a break this weekend. Lots of school posts this week on PBTS- see freshman advice & kick the stress. I am writing this (Thursday night) and still have tons of homework, so this is going to be a quick recap of my week! At least this is productive procrastination :)

One: Lime Popsicles 

This week has been super hot and after coming home post XC practice these lime popsicles are the first thing I have been grabbing. They are super refreshing and way better for you than indulging in an ice cream. Next time you find yourself at Trader Joe's make sure you pick up a pack! 

Two: Apples & Peanut Butter

Now that we are making our way into fall, I have been getting into eating apples as the summer fruit is no longer at its best. I love dipping my apple slices in peanut butter to make it a more filling snack + lots of protein! 

Three: Fall Vibes

Although it is still far to warm to really break out any fall clothing, I have been seeing little pops of fall everywhere I go. The dark fall hues are to die for and picking up a bouquet of mums is a great way to get into the fall mood. 

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

Kick the Stress

As I've matured through high school, I've definitely gotten a grip on my stress level. If you talked to me freshman year, I guarantee you could tell after a 5 second conversation that I was a total ball of stress. I attribute a lot of my success in becoming a more balanced and level-headed student to just getting a better feel for high school in general. Adapting the attitude that falls under the category of "don't sweat the small stuff" has helped me a lot, and I don't find myself stressed much at all anymore unless I have an important deadline to meet. I just remind myself that things have a way or working out and all the work I need to get done, will get done. The other thing that has helped me is to just take sensory breaks, relax, laugh, and not get too caught up with school, sports, etc. I've compiled a list of things that help me take my mind off stressful subjects. I get how hard the beginning of the school year can be (AP U.S. History may or may not be the death of me...stay tuned as time will tell), yet I guarantee if you try just 1 of these things, you will feel better.

1. I've found that just getting out of the house and getting a tea or coffee makes me feel refreshed.

2. I watch this video on a regular basis and it never fails to make me laugh. I've made all of my friends watch it and they agree its hysterical. If you're into lip-sync battles, or even if you aren't, please don't miss out!

3. Try going for a run or just exercising in general. It's no lie that you feel better after working out, and it's certainly a productive break. 

4. Make cookies or your favorite quick snack. I realize this contradicts my previous point, but sometimes you just need some comfort food. I'm a firm believer a chocolate chip cookie can go a long way. I literally just made up that saying, but I think it works, right? I mean, there is literally nothing tastier than these.

5. Many of you probably realize that I'm a die hard Taylor Swift fan by now and am 100% obsessed with her 1989 album...still. The Wildest Dreams video is in my opinion her best yet, and it totally brings me away from the real world for 4 minutes.

6. I think taking nap during the school week can be really refreshing as long as you don't oversleep. After I take a nap, I always wakeup feeling like I can power through my homework.

7. To continue the YouTube trend, I've been really liking Karlie Kloss's YouTube channel "Klossy". I think she's a really great role-model and I watch her videos regularly.

8. Last but certainly not least, why not catch up with a few of your favorite blogs? Get some cool DIY ideas that you can look forward to when you finally have free-time, and proceed by speeding through the work you have to do. I've been loving Kelly in the City  and her sub-blog "Little Home in the City" as of recent. 

Hope this helps!

xoxo,

Julianna 

Preppy by the Sea

Autumn Pinspiration

all images via Pinterest

This past week I have found myself pinning lots of fall looks. I don't know if it's because this week is New York Fashion Week, but I am extra excited to see the new trends and looks of this year! I adore the simplistic and neutral vibe of fall fashion and am excited for the crisp air to return. Denim, stripes, olive green, and camel are my top picks for this season, they can all be easily paired to create a wide variety of looks. I think the last look is my favorite, which one are you loving?

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

Advice for High School Freshman

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At this point I believe that all schools are back in session, so I thought I would share my advice to freshman. I personally had a very great experience freshman year. In my town there are four different elementary school which all funnel into the same middle school, so I was fortunate enough to already know 99% of the kids I would go to high school with. I genuinely enjoyed most of the classes I took and found myself manageably challenged. There really is nothing to be super nervous about freshman year, it's all an adjustment but you will get it down. I'm sure everyone and their mother has told you that the next four years will go by quickly and they are not kidding. I can't believe I have started my junior year, as I honestly still think of myself as that little freshman. 

+Get Involved

This is probably the best thing that you can do if you are a freshman. If you are at a new school and don't really know a ton of people, getting involved is a great way to get to know people that have similar interests. I know this might seem crazy but I totally recommend attending meetings for any clubs/ activities you think you might even be remotely interested in. This way you can figure out the things that you will most enjoy and then drop anything you don't love. By sophomore year I pretty much knew everything I was serious about staying with and was able to divide up my time between sports and clubs. 

My freshman year, I joined student council on a whim and am now the head of the community service committee and spend lots of time participating in activities with that. I also did crew my freshman year and later realized that it wasn't for me. This decision led me to join the cross country team which I love! Just know that everything will work out the way it's supposed to and you will really be able to figure out your personal interests in your high school years.

+ Go to School Events 

Unlike in middle school, school events are actually super fun! Go to friday night games, homecoming, fundraisers, plays, or any other event that your school has. These events are fun ways to spend time with your friends, get to know new people, and show school spirit. As a freshman, you want to start to get a feel for your school and see everything that it has to offer! 

+Study

You are probably thinking duh, of course I am going to study, its school for God's sake. This is seriously one of the most important things that you can do freshman year as your grades from this year are in essence the foundation of your GPA for the next four years. It is not super easy to get your GPA up significantly, so it is best to start out high and give yourself some buffer room because sophomore and junior year are going to be way harder! You don't really need to be thinking about college at this point, but if you have a good GPA now, your senior year self will thank you during the college application process. High school is a clean slate and your opportunities are endless, so make the most of it! 

+Sleep

Try to get as much sleep as you possibly can. If you finish your homework early, the Netflix can wait until the weekend- take the extra hour of sleep. You are going to have a lot more work than you did in the past and every second of sleep is precious. Freshman year I really learned that I can't effectively take in much information past 11:30. I will honestly do better on an assessment if I call it quits and sleep. Get to know yourself and how your sleep patterns effect your performance in class. 

Good luck to the class of 2019!

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Simple Stripes

top | jeans | sneakers | necklace | glasses 

The dreaded transition months, we meet again. September in New England is still fairly warm, however it is time to start transitioning fall pieces into the daily wardrobe. A few weeks ago, I found this striped shirt in Old Navy. I would consider myself a low key stripe addict, but I have never owned anything in this mustard color before. I purchased it a size up (I'm wearing a medium) so that it would be a bit looser and have more of a "boyfriend" fit. I also purchased the shirt in navy and cream and have a good feeling they will be worn a lot this fall. Light wash denim is great to transition to fall and I cuffed the bottom to go with my converse. I am loving this laid back look and will definitely be wearing some variation of it quite frequently in the upcoming months. 

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

Friday Favorites

Happy Friday! I am beyond happy to have finished my first week back at school and am ready to enjoy the weekend. As always, week one is always a busy and difficult to get back into the daily school routine. I think I am now into the swing of things and managing the crazy workload of junior year, sports, blogging, and somewhat of a social life.

Today is the fourteenth anniversary of September 11th, make sure you take a moment out of your day to think about all the families who were affected by this tragic day. 

One: Labor Day Weekend

Last weekend was such a great end to a terrific summer. I spent a few days at my house on the Cape with my family and later my friends and I all spent the last days together at a friends beach house relaxing at the beach and pool! With the hundred degree heat wave this week, I was really wishing I was back here instead of in the sweltering classroom. 

Two: Whites

I am kind of a stickler about the whole no white after labor day, so I was super bummed to put away my white jeans and shorts this week. I am loving this all white look from earlier this week! 

Three: School Supplies

There is nothing better than having clean new school supplies at the beginning of the year. Check out my What's in my Backpack post to get a more detailed look into what I am using this year. 

xoxo,

Catherine 

Preppy by the Sea