Preppy by the Sea: polyvore

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May 15, 2014

Thoughts For Thursday- Playing With Patterns

This year, I feel like styling patterns on patterns seems to be the trend and I actually really love it! Who says stripes and polka dots don't match? Forget the fashion rules we were all taught when we were little because this Spring it's time to play with patterns. A gingham button down shirt is one of my go-to items in my closet. In the winter they were perfect with a fair isle sweater and for the spring and summer they look adorable with Lilly shorts and striped skirts. In the Spring and Summer I definitely find myself wearing a lot more patterns and I am very excited to style them a little bit differently this year and get out of my comfort zone.

What do you think about pattern mixing?

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

Playing With Patterns by preppybythesea featuring button up shirts

May 09, 2014

When Life Gives You Lemons

It is that time of year again, we are all so done with school and there could not be any more tests and any less sleep. Let's face it, for most of us there is a good chance that life is giving us lemons. Instead of making lemonade, I would love to "inZEST" in some Kate Spade. I don't know what it is about this collection, but I love it! If you watch Hart of Dixie, doesn't this collection remind you of Lemon Breeland? Not only does this remind me of her because her name is Lemon, but this is 100% her style in a Kate Spade collection (especially the dress)! I have totally fallen in love with the scarf and it would be the perfect pop of color to any Spring or Summer outfit!

May 01, 2014

Tastefully Teal

As you can probably see, teal is one of my favorite spring and summer colors. I feel as though even though it is very bright and a statement color in itself, it matches a lot of patterns and other bright spring and summer colors. Without further ado, here are some adorable teal items that we can look forward to wearing this summer!

March 13, 2014

Thoughts For Thursday- Spring Break Essentials

Recently I have been getting really excited for spring break, which is in April for my school. I have seen lots of "Spring Break Essentials" posts and videos and thought it would make a fun Thoughts for Thursday! If you are on break right now, I hope you are having a blast! Leave a comment saying where you are going, we would love to hear about your exciting adventures!

1. Jack Rogers
Jack Rogers are my go-to summer sandal, you can dress them up or down and they add a cute pop of color to your outfit. On spring break theses sandals are perfect to pack because they don't take up a ton of room in your luggage. Wear them with a simple tunic coming from the pool to grab some lunch or pair them with a fancy dress to wear to a nice dinner!

2. Hats
Hats, Hats, Hats! I could not survive a spring break trip with out one of my favorite hats, they keep the sun out of your face and are so adorable! Within the past year I have developed quite the obsession with baseball hats and am loving the gingham Southern Proper "Frat Hat", the Vineyard Vines "Whale Logo" hat and the Southern Marsh blue and white seersucker hat! Sun hats are also a staple, I have one from C. Wonder (monogrammed of course) the big floppy hat is such a cute piece to wear at the beach!

3. Tumbler
Obviously if you are at the beach it is going to be super hot in the sun, so always have a tumbler filled with ice water with you! If you don't have a tumbler, I suggest the Lilly Pulitzer ones, the patterns are so fun and they are only $16.

4. Sunglasses and Croakies
Sunglasses are kind of a given, however some people do not always think to bring croakies. Last year, I went to Turks and Caicos for spring break and we rented paddle boards and a sail boat. I was so glad to have my croakies on the trip because I knew I could wear sunglasses in the hot sun on the water with out the fear of losing them.

5. Tote Bag
A tote bag is probably the most versatile thing you could bring on spring break! I take my tote bag as my carry-on for the flight and when I arrive at the resort pack it up with things for the beach and pool!

6. Sunscreen
You will get tan if you wear sun screen and the entire vacation will be more pleasant because you won't be terribly burned! I am not saying that you need to wear 100 SPF but at least wear some so you don't look like a lobster!

7. Monogrammed Bandeau/ Bathing Suits
Last summer, Julianna and I purchased monogrammed bandeau bathing suits from Modern Monograms on Etsy, I got a white top with the navy circle font monogram. These tops are seriously so adorable! If you are a monogram lover I highly suggest purchasing one for this spring break or summer! A packing tip I have is bring suits that you can mix and match, it will prevent major over packing and you can still wear a different combination every day!

8. A Simple Wedge
Wedges are super comfortable for walking around and they are perfcet for a nice dinner. I suggest packing a simple pair that you can wear with multiple different dresses.

9. Rubber Flip Flops
When walking to the beach or the pool, you will not want to wear nice sandals like Jack Rogers, so it is important to pack a pair that can can wet! Last year I purchased a pair from Tory Burch, they are a little bit pricy for rubber flip flops however, they are SO comfortable and you can dress them up. I always get a pair of junky flip flops from Old Navy, I believe there are 2 for $5, so they are perfect for the beach and if you lost them it would not be a big deal. Rainbow flip flops are also a favorite, they have really good support and are super durable!

10. A Good Camera
I love taking pictures, I think that they are the best way to capture a memory of a special trip. We all have phones with decent quality cameras, however a real camera is definitely a must for a vacation! The quality of your photos will be much greater with a nice cameras and the battery life is so much longer than an iPhone.

11. A Good Read for the Beach
Sitting on the beach is my favorite part of vacation, and there is nothing like reading a good book under the shade of the umbrella. Last summer I read The Fault in Our Stars by John Green, if you have not read it yet I highly suggest bringing this one on your trip.

12. Lotion
I usually get burned over spring break so bringing a moisturizer is a must! Make sure the lotion is under 3oz. if you are not checking your bag!

13. Nike Shorts
I live in Nike shorts at the beach, they are so comfortable and dry quickly.

14. T-Shirts
Oversized t-shirts are also a go-to, I wear them with my Nike shorts. My favorite t-shirts are from Southern Tide, Vineyard Vines and the Fraternity Collection.

15. A Fancy Dress
I always bring a few nice dresses with me on vacation for dinners. How cute is this Lilly Pulitzer shift dress? I would also suggest packing a cardigan to wear with the dress incase it gets cool at night.

16. Casual Sun Dress
Last year on spring break I got burned so badly and the last thing I wanted to do was put on a dress that was tight and irritating on the burn. The simple chevron dress is loose-fitting and you can still dress it up with a cute statement necklace and wedges or wear it to a casual lunch. Boutiques have lots of cute simple dresses, the fabric they use is super light weight and they dry quickly, which is always good if they get wet by the pool!

17. Cute Shorts
Lilly Pulitzer Callahan shorts and J. Crew Chinos are the perfect shorts to bring on spring break, wear them to lunch or if you go on any adventures! I always feel like I always over pack shorts because I end up just going from a bathing suit and t-shirt to a dress and wedges, there is not much in-between at the beach!

Here are my Favorite Vineyard Vines baseball hat and Lilly Pulitzer You Gotta Regatta dress from Spring break last year!

I hope this was helpful if you are getting ready for a spring break trip! Everyone have a great break, whether your going on an exciting trip or staying home!

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

Spring Break Essentials by preppybythesea featuring tory burch shoes

March 06, 2014

Thoughts for Thursday- Spring Shoes

Maybe it does't quite feel like spring yet in New England, but I can only hope the mild weather is just around the corner! To get everyone excited for spring, heres a guide to shoes you can wear all through spring!

Spring Shoes by jrosefenton featuring stripy shoes

Ok, remember that although its nice to have the designer name on your shoes, definitely don't count out Old Navy and TJ Maxx for knockoffs that are just as cute. So, I'll break it up into two categories, BUY REAL and LOOK FOR A DEAL to help you decide where to splurge and save!

1. Jack Rogers- BUY REAL

When can I wear them?- After April vacation (or mid-April) until the end of summer!

What can I wear them with?- Anything from casual chino shorts and a simple tee to your favorite fancy summer dress.

My thoughts-Spring and Summer wouldn't be the same without by Jack Rogers. I have two pairs, one is solid navy, the other pink and gold and I wear both of them all the time. My favorite spring shoes by far!

2. Sperrys- BUY REAL

When can I wear them?- Right now! it's totally okay to start wearing your Sperry shoes in March; I know I have.

What can I wear them with?- T- shirts and shorts, spring jeans, or even a casual dress!

My thoughts- I wear these adorable boat shoes all the time because they are practical and adorable. They do make Sperry look-alikes for much cheaper, but I personally think this is something you have to buy in full…be authentic and buy original Sperrys!

3. Loafers- LOOK FOR A DEAL

When can I wear them?- All through the year, but especially starting in March and throughout spring.

What can I wear them with?- Jeans, shorts, and casual dresses, but for some reason I'm not a fan of loafers paired with skirts. I think it looks a little disjointed.

My thoughts- Although I love the J. Crew cheetah print loafers, I'm POSITIVE you could find another cute pattern at a bargain store for much less. On the other hand, the whale C. Wonder loafers (also pictured) are one of a kind, and those your would have to buy full price.

Side note- how cute are those whale loafers?! I think I may buy a pair when they go on sale!

4. Sandals- LOOK FOR A DEAL

When can I wear them?- Beginning of May or end of April. Pretty much when the weather, where ever you're living, is nice.

What can I wear them with?- A very put-together casual look along with skirts and dresses

My thoughts- What girl doesn't want a pair of Tory Burch sandals? That being said, what girl wants to go out and pay over $200 for a pair of seasonal shoes? Someday I will invest in a pair of these adorable sandals, but for now I'll go for something equally as cute but cheaper. But, if you're dying for a pair of these (gorgeous) sandals, go for it! I'm all for it, they're a statement piece and a spring and summer classic!

5. Rainbow Flip Flops- BUY REAL

When can I wear them?- April all the way into fall or as soon as the weather warms up

What can I wear them with?- Casual day-to-day spring attire…even casual dresses!

My thoughts- These are my go- to shoes in the spring and summer. They are comfortable and support your foot well. Definitely something to buy for the brand, they last for ever and are worth every penny!

6. Flats- LOOK FOR A DEAL

When can I wear them?- Late winter all the way through spring and even summer. Flats are good for all seasons, really.

What can I wear them with?- Shorts, jeans, skirts, dresses; flats are the most versatile of all the shoes pictured.

My thoughts- Once again, I love the Tory Burch and Brooks Brother flats pictured, but I'll opt for a plain nude flat and a floral flat knockoff for less. I do plan on investing in a pair of Tory Burch flats at some point, but I'm more likely to see if a pair of flats is cute as opposed to the brand. Whatever you buy, make sure they're versatile, decent quality, and most of all, preppy!

I hoped this helped you on your journey to shoe shopping and got you excited for spring. Or maybe I just gave you something to read on a Thursday night. Either way, I hope you enjoyed this post… I enjoyed making it!

xoxo,

Julianna

Preppy by the Sea

February 27, 2014

Thoughts For Thursday- Pay Less For Preppy

This week's Thoughts For Thursday has been requested a few times, so here it is! "Preppy" clothing can be very expensive, here are a few spring essentials that I have found dupes for to keep your spring wardrobe on a budget. The C. Wonder in my town is closing and all sale items were 70% off, I got $150 leopard loafers for $28, score! Let us know what your biggest bargain is!

1. Always Look for Bargains at Places Like Rue La La, T. J. Maxx and Marshalls
I swear by Rue La La, it is by far the best flash sale website, I have purchased multiple Lilly Pulitzer dresses, jewelry and riding boots there! Julianna has such great luck at T. J. Maxx, check out the designer sections, I have scored lots of colored pants from Joe's Jeans and a Ralph Lauren bathing suit! I don't really have the best luck at Marshall's but its still worth a trip!

2. J. Crew Factory
This year I have been liking J. Crew Factory more than J. Crew, they have had such cute tops and jewelry and I just ordered a pajama set, I feel like such a blogger now;) The prices at J. Crew Factory are already amazing, but seriously I can't remember a time when there wasn't 30% off new arrivals or 40% off all clearance items! The one thing I will say is that the shorts from J. Crew Factory are not as thick as the ones from J. Crew, but if you want the $19.50 price tag go for it!

3. Old Navy
This year Old Navy has had dupes for many of the J. Crew items, including the extremely popular puffer vests! The $29.94 sailboat sweater from Old Navy has such similar nautical summer feel as the $78 dollar lobster sweater from J. Crew Factory. Like anything, if you weed through everything at a store you are likely to find one or two things you like!

4. Target
Target is a bit of a stretch, but even once and a while they have some cute sandals or bathing suits. The neutral wedges pictured above are very similar to the J. Crew Factory Espadrilles wedge at a fraction of the cost.

5. Go to Local Outlets and Check eBay
I love going to the outlets, I usually go once for back to school shopping and once for spring/summer shopping. I love going to the Tory Buch, J. Crew Factory, Ralph Lauren and Kate Spade outlets! Sometimes things sell out quickly online and eBay could a last resort, I am kind of skeptical of eBay, but if you want to order I would recommend getting only NWT items and checking to make sure it is a reliable seller. (If you are looking for Lilly Pulitzer specifically, I would check out the Re-Lilly Facebook Page)

I hope this was helpful for finding deals for spring shopping!

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

Preppy For Less by preppybythesea

February 23, 2014

How to Survive a Long Flight and Airport Dilemma

On my way to California, my flight was two hours delayed in Boston and we missed our connector in San Francisco. Long story short we had to drive seven hours to the mountain after flying across the country because there were no more flights. We spent over 20 hours traveling, so I decided to write about how to deal with all the issues that come with flying.

1. Download a Movie (or two) the Night Before
Movies are a great way to make the flight go by faster, especially if it is a long one. It is very important to download the movie the night before because some times it can be painfully slow and you want it to be all ready to go when you are on the plane. If you have an iPad I highly suggest watching the movies on that, the battery life is amazing! (I watched a movie and it only used up 4%)

2. Pack Lots of Food
This is pretty self explanatory, you will be so thankful that you packed snacks because there are not a ton of options on the plane! My favorite things to pack are pretzel crisps, an apple and something sweet (a candy bar or cookie).

3. Hydrate
I don't know why, but flying always makes me so thirsty, dehydrated and tired. Once you get past security by a bottle of water, or bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it up at a water fountain. On most flights they offer drinks, take advantage of that and get something other thank water, I love getting a Diet Coke! Staying hydrated will make your experience so much more pleasant and you will not feel as drained by the end of the day.

4. Pack Chap Stick
I always find myself using so much Chap Stick on the plane because my lips gets so dry. Chap Stick is something that can easily be forgotten, but it is such a necessity. If your destination is hot the sun can dry out your lips and if you are traveling somewhere cold the dry air and wind will also dry out your lips, having Chap Stick will be so nice!

5. Bring a Head Rest Pillow
I'm actually not sure what the exact name of these pillows are but they are awesome! Try to get some sleep on the plane, you will feel rejuvenated and time will pass quickly. I know sleeping on the plane can be awkward and uncomfortable, plug in you head phones and listen to some calm music and try to fall asleep or at least try to relax.

6. Try to Stay Calm and Use the Waiting Time to Your Advantage
At the moment when you realize you are going to miss your flight or you flight was canceled it is hard not to panic, just try to stay calm. Dilemma at the airport happens all the time, planes have mechanical issues, weather causes delays, 99% of the time everything will work out (it might just take more time than you expected). When you are stuck in the airport use the time to your advantage, I cannot stress this enough! Currently I am sitting in San Francisco for a four hour layover, I have used the time to write this blog post and a few others to post when I am busy. Waiting is such a pain, sometimes its what you have to do to have an awesome trip. In the long run all the issues will not be what you remember, but the amazing memories you made on vacation!

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

How to Survive a Long Flight and Airport Dilemma by preppybythesea on Polyvore

February 16, 2014

Statement Necklace Guide

Hi guys, and for most of you, Happy February Vacation! Why not start off this week-long break with a guide to statement necklaces? Every girl needs necklaces and other jewelry to complete their outfits, and with spring right around the corner, lets take a look at the must haves!

1. Tortoise Shell Flower Necklace: Catherine has this necklace, and I absolutely love it! It's perfect for fall and winter, but I think it's color scheme is a little too dark for spring and summer. It's adorable with a casual dress or sweater complemented by been boots or jeans (See Styling Bean Boots.)

2. Crystal Circle Statement Necklace: This necklace is good for any season, and any occasion! The most versatile of the pictured necklaces, it can be worn with either gold or silver jewelry and matches anything from your flannel right after coming off the ski slopes, to your bright patterned summer Lilly dress. This goes for almost all crystal necklaces, it's a piece of jewelry you'll love to wear!

3. Pearl Hammock Necklace: Both Catherine and I have this necklace and it's one of my favorites. Pearls are definitely not as casual as some of the other necklaces on this list, but still this necklace can we worn to school, around town, or out at night as long as your outfit is appropriate.
Styling Tip: Catherine has worn this necklace with her monogram necklace together and it's such an awesome combination! Consider pearls and monograms together with all of your favorite outfits!

4. Floral Burst Necklace: This adorable necklace is meant for sprint and summer, especially in this bright coral color. I love this necklace, but make sure when styling that either your outfit is fairly simple (not a lot of pattern) or the pattern you do have matches the color of the necklace.

5. Pointed Petal Necklace: I have this necklace from J.Crew factory and it was a great buy. It's perfect for layering in the winter (See Game Day, the Sweater Way) but the navy and crystal jewels also would compliment a classic spring and summer outfit! I know this necklace is sold out, but look for something with fairly small jewels with navy and crystal for a simple statement similar to this one.

6. Monogram Necklace: It's a staple of a prepsters wardrobe, a basic element to preppy and classy style. The monogram necklace is versatile and matches almost anything! Pick either gold or silver depending on your personal preference and what the majority of your jewelry is.

1. Bauble Bar | 2. J. Crew Factory | 3. J. Crew | 4. J. Crew Factory 5. Sold Out J.Crew Factory
6. Monograms Online

I hope this helped you to style and pick out some adorable statement necklaces!

xoxo,

Julianna

Preppy by the Sea

February 07, 2014

Preppy by the TEA loves mugs!

There is nothing I love more than being cozy on a cold winter morning and having a hot cup of coffee or tea! Recently I have become obsessed with mugs, they are so cute and add a little something to your basic morning routine! Here are a few that I have my eye on!

Preppy by the TEA loves mugs!

Mugs are so adorable and come in so many shapes and patterns, they are inexpensive and make great gifts (maybe even fill them with some extra goodies!) Happy Friday!

xoxo,

Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

Preppy by the TEA loves mugs! by preppybythesea featuring colorful coffee mugs

January 17, 2014

Nailpolish Must-Haves

Hi guys and happy long weekend!

I decided to do a polyvore of nail polish colors that will take you through the seasons with a chic and classy manicure! Enjoy and leave comments below!

Winter- December-March

Two words, DARK RED! I love deep red nails in the winter; they are dramatic and glamorous and compliment any chunky sweater you decide to wear! Consider something slightly muted and not too bright. It is winter and a color too bright may make the color in you hands seem pale. I love the Butter London color pictured!

When in doubt, go neutral. Every (good) nail polish brand has a nice neutral color that gives your nails a clean and polished look. Browns in your nails look good with browns in your boots (I personally love the Essie color "Glamour Purse", I wear it all the time!)

Metallic of the month: Silver- Good for the holiday season as it reminds me of tinsel and silver bells. A classy look that isn't too flashy.

Spring- March(end)-May

Pretty, pink, and pastels! I love raspberry colored nails for all seasons, but I think that they work best in the spring. Go check out the Essie color "Watermelon", if you don't already have it, I suggest you go buy it this instant; its my favorite nail polish color hands down! Also, spring is often associated with pastels. Pastel blues, greens, and pink are designated springtime colors so take advantage of the few short months you have to wear them!

Metallic of the month: Pink/Silver Glitter- Essie makes an adorable rose gold pink that I love and also some glitter and sparkle confetti nail polish is dainty and perfect for spring.

Note: I love the Chanel trio pictured; solid colors and necessities for winter and spring

Summer- June-August

Pink, pink, and well PINK! Go for something bright and not too dark, it will compliment your tan (and Lilly dresses) ;) and looks girly and cute. You need a good selection so I suggest having 3 go-to pink colors.

I personally think that summer is a month to do your own nails because it wears off so fast, but if you do go for a mani/pedi why not go for something bright! Go crazy with a vibrant green, bright turquoise, neon coral (but not too neon!) because it will wear off in 3 days or less anyway. Also, one of my favorite summer colors is "Aruba Blue" by Essie (dark blue pictured)

Metallic of the month: Blue- This is Essie color (lighter blue) is probably my favorite metallic of the year. It screams summer and I think its just an awesome color!

Fall- September-November

It's the one season of the year you can wear crimson red and emerald green so go crazy. Definitely go for darker nails in the fall as it is transition time into winter. Consider colors that a comparable to the leaves (the colors of fall) Also, fall is another month where neutral colors are a must along with dark grays (Loving that OPI color!)

Metallic of the month: Gold galore- Get a good gold nail polish that can become your go-to fall color. It's classic and compliments your riding boots and gold stacking bracelets.

Bonus Tips

If you want to get good at painting your own nails, paint with your opposite hand first (I'm right-handed and I paint my right hand first) It's less messy and your opposite hand is steadier when there isn't wet polish on it.

If your nails chip, either touch up with the same color or take it off. There is nothing worse than an old messy manicure, it looks sloppy!

Always put on base coat. It's not something that many people do when doing your own nails, but the regular polish sticks so much better to base coat. This is a good way to avoid nail polish that peels off your nails in one piece after a day.

Favorite Base Coat: OPI Natural Nail Base Coat

Favorite Top Coat: Essie Clear Coat (very quick drying)

Remember, nails add so much to your appearance. Having a clean and classy manicure shows that you care and makes you look so much more sophisticated. It's the little things that make your look better than the next girl's!

Oh and do me a favor, NEVER under any circumstances, paint your nails yellow :)

Did you make it through this very long post...I hope so!

xoxo,

Preppy by the Sea

January 15, 2014

Exam Study Tips

I am not sure when most school have exams, however I think they are just starting or coming up soon! This week I have my French exams and next weeks I have math, biology, history and English. Next week my school has half days on Tuesday and Wednesday and no school thursday so, I guess there are some perks with all the stress! If you have exams starting next week make sure to use this upcoming long weekend to your advantage! Being in the midst of all these tests, I though that posting about my exam study tips might be helpful!

1. Use a Calculator when studying for math and science
Using your calculator instead of your phone is probably one of the best things you can do to study. I find that if I use my phone notifications will pop up and I will become easily distracted. I put my phone on the other side of my room on the charger and only look at it if I need to ask a friend a question.

2. Flash Cards
For foreign language, I find that flash cards are the best way to study vocab. Writing out the vocab helps commit the word to memory and you will learn how to spell it. The other benefit of flashcards are that you can take them with you where ever you are going, throw them in your purse and use time in the car to study!

3. Post-it Notes
When reviewing old notes or going through your text book, using sticky notes is an easy way to remind yourself what to go back and look at. At the end of each term I empty out my binders and put all the notes into a big binder that is divided into my five main classes. Using color-coded sticky notes allows me to write myself a little note and remember what I didn't understand and which class it goes with.

4. Tea
After a long day at school or even after dinner, I love to drink tea. Tea is so calming and helps me relieve some stress. How adorable is the monogrammed mug!? Celestial Country Peach Passion tea is my absolute favorite and it is decaf so drinking it late at night will not keep you up. If you know that it is going to be a very late night I would resort to coffee.

5. Word Documents
I have two study tips involving word documents.
The first tip I have is regarding a study guide. A few of my teachers gave us HUGE study guides for the exams. My friends and I decided to split up the study guide and then e-mail each other our work. Sharing the work with friends is a life saver, it allows you to have extra time to work on assignments for other classes and have the study guide ready to go in a more efficient way!
The second tip is for classes you don't receive a study guide in
Starting to study for a class that does not give you much to work with can be extremely difficult so, take advantage of what you do have. I use old homework assignments and vocab lists that I had previously typed to make my own study guide for the class. The old assignments and notes from class will definately help you review the material.

6. Nightly Routine
During exam week it is crucial to get as much sleep as you can so that you feel rejuvenated in the morning. I like to take a shower early so that I can change into cozy pajamas and study in my bed. For me moisturizing my skin is a must, seeing as it gets so dry in the winter. The St. Ives Oatmeal and Shea Butter lotion is my go-to moisturizer and I love eos and Burt's Bees lip balm.

7. Know When to Take a Break
You can not study forever, end of story. There comes a point when you know that you need to pull your head out of your binder and take a break! When I take a quick break, I like to read a few of my favorite blogs (http://www.prepinyourstep.com, http://kellyinthecity.com, http://www.classygirlswearpearls.com, http://www.prepavenue.com, http://thedariadiaries.blogspot.com and lots more!)

Let us know if you found any of these tips helpful or if you have any other good tips! Good Luck!

xoxo,

Preppy by the Sea

Exam Study Tips (MId-Year Edition) by preppybythesea featuring Lilly Pulitzer

December 29, 2013

Preppy Trends 2013

I decided to make a Polyvore of my favorite preppy trends of 2013! Choosing what to put on the list was difficult as there were so many good fashion statements this year, but I carefully chose what I think were the best ones. Enjoy!

1. Quilted vests- They have been huge this year! Plain colors such as sand, navy and black along with patterns such as stripe and herringbone were major sellers at J. Crew. They add character to your outfit and personalize your style!

2. Boots- Riding boots in both dark and light leather have been so popular and add class and sophistication to your outfit. They go with almost anything and brands such as Frye are so stylish! And, of course, Bean Boots are both cute and practical as they are good for dreary winter weather.

3. Dark nail polish- My favorite Essie colors this year consisted of deep reds, dark blues, and metallic such as gold and pewter. Especially good for winter, these versatile colors were popular. Will they be next year too?

4. J. Crew Chino Shorts- These shorts are adorable and timeless. I own a few (okay A LOT!) of pairs as they are good for the golf course, shopping downtown, or just relaxing on a summer day.

5. Boot Socks- These decorative socks have been so trendy this year! Worn with bean boots, short boots, or even tall riding boots these socks add pattern and style.

6. Lacoste Polos- Classic summer tops in a variety of colors that show your preppy sophistication and will never go out of style.

7. Flannels- Not only are they comfortable, but a major trend of 2013. Cute, slouchy, and plaid, flannels from LL Bean and occasionally J. Crew have been top sellers and are perfect for a lazy day at school.

8. Pearls- These pearls (pictured from J. Crew and Kate Spade) are not only statement pieces but give your look a cool vintage-like feel. I'm seeing them more and more in stores and around town and girls wearing them more.

9. Decorative Sweater- Jeweled sweaters are definitely a trend of 2013 as this was the first year I've seen them in stores and I love them. Also new and popular this year are sweaters with pictures (like the J. Crew skier sweater pictured.)

10. Jack Rogers- Although they have been around forever, I saw more Jack Rogers this summer than ever before. In a variety of colors and styles these are my go to summer shoes.

11. Lululemon Leggings- I wish I could wear my leggings everyday! These pants are comfortable and easy to match with an oversized sweater, socks and bean boots.

12. Sperrys- The more natural styles have been especially popular this year, but these classic shoes are a must-have piece for your wardrobe.

13. Bright Lilly Patterns- I loved Lilly's new summer patterns this year! They're always so bright, pretty, and preppy and make for cutest summer dresses around!

14. Coats- Wax coats similar to those from Barbour have been so popular this fall and winter! I have one myself (from Jack Wills) and it's definitely my go-to jacket. Also, dark colored quilted jackets are so classy and were a spring and fall trend this year.

15. Colored Cords- I love corduroy pants because they go with everything and now come in a variety of colors! Stores like Madewell and J. Crew have made cords in green, burgundy, and pink; all colors that I love to wear!

So, after reading this very long post ;), do you agree or disagree with my thoughts on trends? Do you think these fashions will withstand the test of time? Overall, it was been a great year for preppy fashion and I can't wait for an even better 2014!

xoxo,

Preppy by the Sea

December 16, 2013

Yankee Swap and Secret Santa Gift Guide

With less than 10 days until Christmas, I'm sure many of you have an upcoming secret santa or yankee swap that you need to get a gift for! Every year my friends and I do both and I always wait until the last minute to get something and end up with no good ideas! This year I thought it through and decided I would make a gift guide for the blog! I hope you can get some ideas from this. Leave a comment about what you are giving or what you received this year! On Sunday, I went to a Yankee and left with the J. Crew "minimergency" kit and some chocolate I was very happy with it, seeing that it was on my gift guide!

The "Beauty Bag"

With a small budget, the beauty bag makes it seem like you are giving/getting a whole lot more! I found this Lilly Pulitzer Cosmetic Bag on Amazon for $2 (from a promotion last year) everything else would be available at your local drug store, Ulta or Sephora.

Starbucks gift card

Honestly if you don't know what to get your secret santa or what to bring to a yankee swap, you really cant go wrong with a Starbucks gift card! Who doesn't love a Peppermint Mocha?!

Daisy by Marc Jacobs roll-on perfume

I have this perfume in the full size bottle and use it everyday! Every girl needs a travel size perfume to bring on the go! (available at Sephora)

J. Crew Factory Scarf

This scarf is so cute, perfect for any season! Take advantage of the twelve day sale!

J. Crew Studs

These studs are the perfect winter accessory, they are so timeless!

I want to apologize now if any of the J. Crew sale items sell out quickly however, you will definitely be able to find something similar!

xoxo,

Preppy by the Sea

December 11, 2013

Christmas Gift Guide For Her!

I have been seeing gift guides all over Pintrest, Instagram, and other blogs I follow so, I thought I should create one! I hope some of you have preppy family members because some of the things I have listed are fairly preppy! Let me know if you want to see more gift guides!

1. Lilly Pulitzer iPhone Case I have this one pictured however, Lilly has so many cute cases that any girl would love! ($28)

2. Kate Spade Bow Ring- So adorable, who wouldn't want this ring!? ($48)

3. Butter London Trio- the perfect red trio for the holiday season! ($36)

4. J. Crew Factory Crystal Link Bracelet- This bracelet is perfect for stacking! (Normally $36.50, on sale for $18)

5. People Style Watch Subscription- What girl doesn't like to keep up with the latest fashion? ($18/year)

6. L.L. Bean "Boat and Tote" Bag- This is probably the most durable bag and perfect for weekend trips! It comes in many different colors and you can even get it monogrammed! (Small- $27.95, Medium- $33.95, Large- $39.95, XL- $45.95)

7. Kate Spade Anchor Earrings- Every girl loves Kate Spade and Anchors! ($32)

8. C. Wonder Snowflake Cutting Board- I am literally dying over how adorable this cutting board is, so cute for winter! ($38)

9. J. Crew Factory Bow Scarf- This bow pattern is to die for and it would look so cute with almost everything! (Normally $46.50 on sale for $23)

10. J. Crew "minimergency kit" - perfect to keep in her purse, she will be ready for any emergency! ($24)

11. Vineyard Vines Baseball Hat- This hat is perfect to cover up a bad hair day or for summer beach days! ($20)

12. L.L. Bean Women's Flannel- As the cold weather approaches, a flannel is the perfect gift! L.L. Bean is always reliable for good quality and they are very soft and warm! ($39.95)

xoxo,

Preppy by the Sea

December 07, 2013

Christmas Wish List

As the holiday season is quickly approaching, I though that it would be fun to show you what I would like! Leave me comments below, I'd love to hear what you are asking for!

Fairisle sweater
vineyardvines.com

Vineyard Vines party top
vineyardvines.com

Obviously I am into sweaters this year, and I am absolutely loving the ones Vineyard Vines has!

Flannel pj
factory.jcrew.com

Every year on Christmas eve, my sister and I get new pajamas and these pants from J. Crew Factory are too cute!

Black pants
lululemon.com

I have to admit I wear leggings quite frequently especially because I ski every weekend! Lululemon leggings are so comfortable and they often have cute bands at the top!

Factory straight and narrow cord
factory.jcrew.com

J. Crew cords are my favorite plus who doesn't love pink!?

J.Crew j crew socks
jcrew.com

Faire Isle has been a slight obsession this fall/winter and these would look super cute with bean boots!

J Crew graduation necklace
jcrew.com

The perfect statement necklace!

Kate Spade white pearl earrings
saksfifthavenue.com

I have been drooling over these Kate Spade earrings, they are so timeless and classy!

Brooks Brothers bow tie bracelet
brooksbrothers.com

One again I have fallen for a KJP product....

Bracelet jewelry
factory.jcrew.com

I love this bracelet, perfect for stacking!

Revlon beauty product
amazon.com

Essie nail polish
target.com

Lipstick and nail polish make the perfect stocking stuffers!

Monogram 1/4 Zip Sweatshirt by CharlestonMonograms on Etsy
etsy.com

If you have been reading the blog, you most likely know I love monograms so, naturally I'm asking for a monogrammed quarter-zip sweatshirt!

Happy Holidays!

XOXO,

Preppy by the Sea

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