October 31, 2014

Friday Favorites

Happy Halloween! I seriously cannot believe that this is the last day of October. This month has totally flown by, however I can't wait for November and all the fun that it has in store (think lots of birthdays and traveling with friends!) Anyways, here are a few things I have been loving and doing this past week!

One: Last Weekend 
Last Friday, my two best friends from camp flew in from Washington, D.C. and Denver to visit for the weekend. We attended a reunion at this beautiful church and obviously couldn't resist taking a picture in front of this arch that just screamed autumn! We also spent lots of time shopping and eating in Boston! Camp friends are truly the best and it was so much fun getting to see them again, even if it was only for a few days! 

Two: Mini Monogrammed Necklaces From Swell Caroline 
If you know anything about us then you would know that we are suckers for a good monogram, especially monogrammed necklaces. When we initially reviewed Swell Caroline about a month ago when we ran the giveaway we fell in love with their fun and gold statement necklaces. This weekend we received these flutter necklaces and both Julianna and I can not stop wearing them. I love how dainty they are! 

Three: Taylor Swift's 1989 Album 
Taylor Swift has been one of my favorite singers for so long now. I remember when I got my first iPod the first song I ever downloaded on iTunes was "Our Song" and two years ago I went to see her Red Tour at Gillette Stadium. Honestly if you are not obsessed with "Shake it Off" you need to reevaluate your taste in music. Now that the entire album is released, I am really loving "Welcome to New York", "Style", "Clean" and "Blank Space". What are you favorites on 1989?

xoxo,
Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

October 28, 2014

Halloween Costume Ideas

With Halloween quickly approaching (I seriously can't believe it's almost November) it is time to start thinking about costumes if you have not already. I wish I wasn't past the tick-or-treating days, but there is nothing better than handing out candy with friends and looking at all the adorable little kids in their costumes. Below are a few of my favorite costumes I have found recently on Pinterest, do you know what you are going to wear for Halloween?

1. Serena and Blair
This would be such a cute costume (and easy to throw together) to do with your blonde or brunette best friend! 

2. Tiffany Boxes
Another simple idea, super cute idea and not trashy like other versions of this costume that I have seen!

3. Audrey Hepburn- Breakfast at Tiffany's 
This is such a cute costume perfect for any Halloween party!

4. PiƱata 
I love this colorful costume and its the perfect DIY look!

5. Bag of Jelly Beans
My sister was actually a bag of Jelly Beans a few years ago, it was such a cute costume and perfect for any age!

What was your favorite costume? 

xoxo,
Catherine 

Preppy by the Sea 

October 23, 2014

The Pinterest Perfect Bulletin Board

Whenever I have a spare minute or two, I find myself browsing through Pinterest and pinning my favorite little things onto my boards. Recently, I have found myself pinning lots of prints, gallery walls and inspirational quotes. I would love to purchase some adorable prints from Evelyn Henson or Design Darling to frame on my walls, but for now I am sharing a quick and free (except for paper and ink) alternative! I have had this bulletin board hanging in my room for years, it was cluttered with pictures from 5th grade, random stickers and tags, so decided it needed a little face lift. I went on Pinterest and found my favorite images (if you follow me, most of these quotes are on my "Inspiration" board), dragged them to my desktop, put them in word documents and printed them out!  The final step to this rainy afternoon project was to cut out the images and arrange them to my liking. Overall, I am very pleased with the way it turned out and that area of my room feels so much more clean and obviously inspirational! 





xoxo,
Catherine 

Preppy by the Sea

October 20, 2014

Leaves & Layers

Layers on layers on layers- my motto for the next six months here in New England. If you have been following the blog for quite some time now, you probably know that Julianna and I are obsessed with vests- expect to see one in majority of posts this fall and winter! I recently purchased this black one from Old Navy for only $24, can you believe it!? I have one from J. Crew Factory in warm bisque and an excursion vest from J. Crew in Deep Riviera Blue that I adore, however if you are looking for a cheeper alternative definitely check out Old Navy! A few summers ago, I went to visit my friend in Colorado and purchased this scarf on a whim in Forever 21. The pattern is a little bit out of my comfort zone, however for $12 I couldn't pass it up. Experimenting with bold patterns via accessories is the perfect way to mix in a little something different to your usual style! With temperatures finally dropping after feeling like summer again this past week, I am finally debuting my riding boots! I purchased this pair last year on Rue La La, they are the perfect shade and great quality! Happy Fall!








Shirt- J. Crew Factory | Vest- Old Navy | Jeans- Joe's Jeans | Boots- Dolce Vita | Scarf- Forever 21 (Old) Similar | Earrings- Local Store Similar | Belt- Target

xoxo,
Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

October 19, 2014

Vineyard Vines Friends & Family Sale

I don't know why but October has been the month of killer sales, first the Tory Burch one, then Kate Spade (ends tonight) and now Vineyard Vines. I apologize for the excessive amount of sale posts, but you really wouldn't want to miss out! This morning my mom and I got some Christmas and birthday shopping checked off the list at this sale and the deals were amazing! Get 25% off all full priced items and 40% off sale items when you use the code 'FF14' at check out! Hurry up there's only one day left to shop! 


xoxo,
Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

October 17, 2014

Kate Spade Sale

There is nothing better than friends, family and a good sale, so why not have the best of both worlds have shop the Kate Spade Friends and Family Sale!? Now through October 19th save 30% off your entire purchase with the code, 'F14FFUS'! Quick, you don't want to miss out on these amazing deals! Kate Spade is one of my favorite designers, everything on her website is adorable complete with cute little details including my favorite, bows! Below are a few of my favorite things, I am currently obsessing over the "East Cake For Breakfast" laptop case and the navy cross body bag! Has anything caught your eye recently at Kate Spade?

Happy Weekend! 

xoxo,
Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

October 16, 2014

#TGIT

#TGIT, Thank God it's Thursday!
I know what you're thinking, I'm a day early. Who gets excited for the day before Friday? Well, I do- and for good reason. If you aren't watching 3 continuous hours of TV on ABC every Thursday night (all produced by Shonda Rhimes), then now is the time to start. Every Thursday, I rush to finish my homework to be done by 8pm to watch my two favorite shows, and my favorite new show. Grey's Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away With Murder have my devoted attention; I love a good TV drama. So, if don't already have this television trio scheduled into your week, I hope this post will convince you to do so.

Grey's Anatomy
Grey's Anatomy has just started its 11th season, so obviously it has withstood the test of time. It follows the life of Meredith Grey and her colleagues at the hospital where she works as she grows from being an intern to a surgeon throughout the seasons. In each episode, different patients are treated at the hospital with cases that will make you both laugh and cry, each providing a message that relates to a personal struggle one of the main characters is facing. You will fall in love with the amazing friendships and romances that evolve between the characters, yet don't be surprised if something that has been building for seasons comes crashing to a halt in a matter of minutes. Grey's is known for plot twists that add both an element of surprise and heartbreak to the show (I've lost count of the number of episodes that have reduced me to tears). So, if you aren't a previous viewer, you have 10 complete seasons to catch up on. But no worries, it's all on Netflix; a few months of binge-watching and you'll be right up to speed. Yes, it's THAT addicting.  



Scandal
Two words. Olivia. Pope. One of the most powerful women in Washington D.C., Olivia works closely alongside the White House, while maintaining her own "crisis management" firm. Whenever someone is in trouble, or needs a scandal to disappear, Olivia Pope is the one to call. Her clothes are amazing, she always wears white, and with her deep connections in Washington (including those with the president…), she never fails to solve any problems she promised to fix. Season 4 has just begun, and it's my honest opinion that Scandal is better than ever. It's a show that will keep you guessing at every moment. Right when you think "I have this case figured out", some evidence found when Olivia's team does a little digging will completely derail your prediction. Once again, if you haven't watched and want to start, don't be worried. Just add it to the list of shows you need to watch on Netlifx; 3 seasons will fly by.


How To Get Away With Murder
The newest show by Shonda Rhimes, HTGAWM had me hooked five minutes in. Again, we have another leading lady, Annalise Keating, a powerful attorney and law professor. Annalise uses her real cases to teach her students, and therefore utilizes their insight on the cases to help her in court. We learn about her favorite savvy students in the first few episodes, and are introduced to two murders that will change the lives of the characters; one in the present day, another three months in the future. Although season 1 is only 3 episodes in, I can tell this is a show I will continue to watch; the drama and suspense is awesome! If you missed the first few episodes, look no further, here is the link to the show's official webpage. Watch it, you won't regret it


With that being said, I sure hope this long-winded post has convinced you to watch these shows. Get your popcorn ready, Thursday night is only a few hours away.

xoxo,
Julianna

Preppy by the Sea

October 15, 2014

Wish List Wednesday: Leather Edition

One of the greatest things about fall is the return of the riding boots. This shoe is such a classic piece and is so versatile for any look. I have a pair of dark brown Franco Sarto boots and a cognac pair from Dolce Vita that I find myself constantly wearing. Recently, I have found myself pinning lots of pictures styling booties. I never really though I would be into them, however when I saw the scalloped ones from Jack Rogers and the side zip pair from Loft my views definitely changed. I also am loving the black Tory Burch pair for a dressier occasion! What are your go-to pair of riding boots?


xoxo,
Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

October 14, 2014

Justifying Jackets


Top Left ($148 at J. Crew) Top Middle ($379 at Barbour) Top Right ($228 at J. Crew Factory) 
Bottom Left ($229 at Patagonia) Bottom Middle ($138 at C. Wonder) Bottom Right ($229 at Patagonia) 

Tis the season of chilly weather and with that comes jackets galore! Here in New England, the winters are extremely chilly and I feel like you really can never have too many jackets. Honestly, if there is one thing that I am going to splurge on it is going to be a nice coat. I wear one every single day so justifying a hefty Patagonia price tag is not too hard especially because they last for so, so long! Earlier this fall I purchased the J. Crew Factory version of the J. Crew Downtown Field Jacket in an olive green color, this jacket is perfect for chilly fall mornings or a cute layered look. In the heart of the winter I swear by my Patagonia puffer jacket which is so warm. If it is absolutely freezing day out skiing (I'm talking negatives here) I could pair it under my ski jacket for added warmth! The final Jacket that I have shown above is the C. Wonder quilted barn jacket in navy that I scored last year on sale for under $50! The C. Wonder coat is a more fashionable alternative to the Patagonia puffer jacket, as it has the cute pattern when the sleeves are cuffed and corduroy elbow patches. 

Although I have plenty of jackets, I obviously have found some other cute ones that are on my lust list! I love the Patagonia retro X fleece jacket and think it would be perfect for the fall. The neutral sand color would look great with everything! Next is the J. Crew Factory city coat, this is not necessarily the most practical jacket for a teenager, however it would be perfect for someone to wear to work in the city. The kelly green color would add the perfect pop to any winter look! Finally comes my dream coat... the classic Barbour jacket! This jacket is complete and udder perfection (except for the $400 price tag)! I will definitely have to invest in this one at some point, or maybe put it on my Christmas list! What jackets have you been lusting over recently?

xoxo,
Catherine

Preppy by the Sea 

October 09, 2014

Desktop Calendars

I am such a sucker for calendars, I can't live without the monthly ones in my Lilly planner and now I am obsessed with desktop calendars. Don't get me wrong I love opening my laptop to a cute picture of my friends and me, but having a calendar sitting in front of you is such a great way to stay organized. For school there are always meetings/ obligations that pop up in Facebook groups. With the calendar right in front of me I can quickly know what kind of day it is and then write it down later. I know that every month the Vineyard Vines blog releases a calendar that you can download and this month so did Evelyn Henson. I am currently using the pink and navy one from Evelyn Henson which is so adorable- along with everything on her website...I'm a little obsessed! Anyways, this was just a quick little post sharing one of the many ways I try to start organized! I hope it helped some of you with crazy schedules like me! 




Happy Thursday, it's almost the weekend! 

xoxo,
Catherine 

Preppy by the Sea

October 08, 2014

Leopard Lovin'

This fall I have been loving all things leopard. The neutral colors can easily be paired with many outfits and the pattern adds the perfect pop to a simple look! Below are some of my Pinterest finds because who doesn't love a little mid-week Pinspiration?!






I am currently loving these target pumps (only $26!) and these J. Crew calf hair pumps are to die for! How cute would these socks look with bean boots this winter!? Recently, a leopard belt has been my go-to accessory for a simple outfit- think jeans, simple gold jewelry and a black top! Today, I wore my C. Wonder needlepoint leopard loafers (no longer available), but I am loving theseThis scarf is only $8.94 and would be the perfect trendy piece to add to your wardrobe, or for a higher end look check out the J. Crew version! Pull your hair back with this headband or this barrette

Are you loving leopard this fall?

xoxo,
Catherine 

Preppy by the Sea

October 07, 2014

Black and Bows

Crisp air, colorful trees, pumpkin bread and riding boots, fall has arrived! This past week the weather totally switched gears and fall is in full swing! I am such a summer person, but I could not be more excited to bring out my favorite sweaters, jeans and vests. I am typically not a fan of black #navyornothing, but I am trying to get a little bit out of my comfort zone this year. I am obsessed with this embroidered shirt and the little black cross-body is the perfect bag for this time of the year. I went to Old Navy this weekend and picked up a pair of nude bow flats which are the perfect dupe for the J. Crew ones. Nude flats are such a fall essential as they match everything and are a great transition shoe in between sandals and boots. 





J. Crew did it again, the detail on this shirt is amazing!

I forgot how much I love these jeans, they are super comfortable and only $54!

A little fall foliage

Bows on toes.

Shirt- J. Crew Factory | Jeans- Nordstrom | Shoes- Old Navy (in stores only) Similar | Necklace- Etsy | Bag- Old Navy

xoxo,
Catherine

Preppy by the Sea

October 06, 2014

Back to Black

Does anyone agree with me that fall is the busiest season of the year? I honestly don't know where the days have gone! My weeks have been so crazy busy with homework and activities that I totally dropped the ball on blogging these past few weeks. Three weeks later (yikes!) I finally have a post! Anyways, I'm not sure why I never really wore black before this year, but this fall both Catherine and I have found it to be one of our go-to colors. I've always recognized how versatile and classic black is, but this is the first time I've incorporated it into my wardrobe. Over the summer I finally purchased a black vest from J. Crew Factory and I wear it all the time; I really want another one! I decided to pair it with a black top underneath and even though I'm doubling up on the same color, I think it works!



I will always love my giraffe necklace!



Top: Gap | Vest: J. Crew Factory | Jeans: Joe's | Shoes: Jack Rogers (similar) | Necklace:  J. Crew Factory

xoxo,
Julianna 

Preppy by the Sea

October 04, 2014

Tory Burch Sale

We had such a crazy week and apologize for the lack of posts, but school comes first. This morning I was playing catch up with some of my favorite blogs and Dorothy from prepinyourstep.com and Carly from thecollegeprepster.com had a posts about their picks from the Tory Burch Sale- guilty of copying the idea :). I guess I missed that email, so I quickly hopped over to her website! Oh my gosh, this sale is amazing. Honestly, Tory Burch has the worst sales ever, they usually require spending at least $500 to get 20% off and there are tons of excluded items. Well this one is totally different, enjoy 25% off almost everything and free shipping with the code 'FRIENDLIEST'. I purchased a pair of black and gold Reva flats for $168 (retail $225), although that is still pretty pricey I have been eyeing them forever and know I will get so much wear out of them! The sale is through Monday. Definitely take advantage of the deals maybe even get some Christmas shopping done- it's never too early! 
xoxo,
Catherine 

Preppy by the Sea 

October 01, 2014

Wish List Wednesday: Fall Dresses

Recently, I have found myself lusting over dresses for the fall. September-November in New England is prime time for cute casual dresses and riding boots. If you live somewhere that stays a little warmer throughout the winter, then lucky you because you can wear them longer with out freezing! Sometimes in the mornings, I have no energy to put together a cute outfit (I typically lay mine out the night before, but often change my mind when I wake up) but do not want to wear leggings and a tee shirt, dresses are my new solution. I will just throw on a dress and a necklace, with absolutely no effort you create an adorable and comfortable look. 

When it comes to simple dresses I love shopping the kids section- my appreciate for size 16 at Crewcuts is so real :) Anyways, I typically wear a size 0-2 in dresses and find that a size xl in kids clothing fits like a glove, plus it's so much cheaper! Over the past few months, I have done a few posts in kids dresses, see here & here and I believe that there will be more to come! The orange dress in the center is from Old Navy Kids, it is extremely similar to this Crewcuts dress that sold out in size 14 and 16.  I think this one is even better because it has long sleeves, which is so much more practical for fall. The dress on the top right is from Crewcuts and I think it would add the perfect pop of color to my fall wardrobe and could even be transitioned into spring! 

Let's move on to regular dresses not from the kids department because I have some good finds there as well. The gray dress (top left) from Gap is a thick sweatshirt material with an exposed zipper in the back, perfect for cooler fall days. Gray is one of my favorite shades for fall, so naturally there are two that I am loving, the second one is from Loft. I found this on Pinterest and am loving the embellishments! The blue patterned dress (bottom left) is another fun pattern from J. Crew Factory. I adore the color scheme on this one and am always looking for fun ways to add color to fall outfits. Finally, the return of the green emerald peplum ASOS dress that I talked about in my Homecoming dress ideas post. I am obsessed with this dress and am trying to justify the price tag because I know it is too fancy to wear to school. What dresses are you loving this fall? Leave a link below I would love to check them out!

Top Left  ($59.50) Top Middle  ($19.94) Top Right ($39.50)
Bottom Left ($88) Bottom Middle ($104.74) Bottom Right ($89.50)

xoxo,
Catherine 

Preppy by the Sea