Why You Should Rock Black & White This Winter

Ciao you lovelies. 

What I'm listening to: She & Him - Baby It's Cold Outside

Fun fact about my life: I did absolutely NO shopping on Black Friday + Cyber Monday. It went against everything I believed in but since I was low on funds, I begrudgingly decided to not spend any money. Even for those sweet, sweet deals. 

I have to be perfectly honest, I've watched Breakfast at Tiffany's more times than I can remember. It's probably in the low hundreds.  I uncontrollably adore Audrey Hepburn, her classy and overwhelmingly elegant style, and of course, I'm in love with Cat.  

I chose this picture of Audrey because I love her and I love food and eating so.

I just love how Holly can wear a simple black dress and yet still look like the most stunning woman that ever lived and breathed (and you'd have a hard time convincing me otherwise).  Although I'm a firm believer in the  little black dress, I also believe in adding white into the mix. Also, I don't want to hear a single 'no white after labor day' comment because I will immediately dismiss you.  And then I'll feel bad and give you an over-the-internet kiss on the cheek.  The point is, I think the perfect mix of black and white is essential for a classy winter wardrobe.   And since I VERY rarely wear anything but dresses, I want to show you my favorite black and white dresses so far in whimsical filters.  I hope you like them! 

This is from Love Culture and is in the running for my favorite dress. 

This (from TJ Maxx) looks MUCH better on. The center is very form fitting and flattering, also the gold zipper on the back  is so pretty. 

\

This is from TJ Maxx as well (okay, I happen to be in love with that store... I AM that cheesy actress on the commercials who proudly proclaims 'I am a Maxxinista!).

The best part (if you can even see it) is the back which has a big cut out which is adorable, especially if you have adorable back tattoos (which I don't yet so I suck).

And of course, I love black TOMS, and TOMS in general. You  know.  Probably wouldn't recommend wearing these with a dress though.

I wear black tights with my black and white dresses because it is cold where I live, so I like to have a pop of color somewhere in my outfit. Usually, I'll don a pair of colorful shoes like the ones shown in the picture. Yes, I am wearing black PINK yoga pants.  Classic common white girl move.

Another way to pop that color into your outfit would be to add a bow.   Bows are super cute, feminine, and they are available essentially everywhere and come in any color you desire.  My favorite bows are from Claire's, BowKuma (online) and from different sellers on Etsy. 

And last, but certainly not least, these are red lipsticks from the Kate Moss collection that go superbly with a black and white ensemble. I'm obsessed with red lipstick, and I practically never leave the house without a coat on.  Of course, if wearing lipstick isn't your thing, there are also beautifully colorful lip glosses and balms that you could look into. 

Happy hunting for your classy pieces! 

Hope these suggestions are helpful! 

-Carolina 

This is me going black and white for winter.  I have an awkward face, I know. ;)

Spring Essentials

Ciao bellezze! 

What I'm listening to: Alas I Cannot Swim - Laura Marling 
Fun fact about my life right now:  I'm starting a new job on Tuesday.  Let's hope I don't fail! 

How is everyone on this fine day?

Today, I'm going to talk about essential items you'll need for my favorite season of the year, Spring!  I love this time of year because of the lovely flowers that seem to pop up everywhere, the weather is not too hot or cold, and school is winding to an end so I can do more of the things I love.  So with that being said, I'm going to show you guys my five Spring essentials. 

1. Retro Rompers

I realize this might not be an essential for most, but I have a growing addiction to rompers and I think they're perfect for Spring.  They're best worn with flats or wedges, and if it gets chilly, a sweater.  I've never gotten why some people think they look like diapers, they're so cute and chic!  This is my romper, it has a coral background with thick white stripes all over. 

2.  Hippie Footwear

These decorated flats are from a thrift store, they were very cheap and still are very cute to me!  They look very down-to-earth and they're really comfortable to walk around in.

3.  Pattern Sunglasses 

Summer isn't the only season to rock lovely shades in!  Spring is the perfect time as well to bring out the floral and polka dot sunglasses.  You can find these literally everywhere, from the likes of Forever 21, Love Culture, Target, Kohls, to even second hand stores.  Flaunt 'em with a vibrant shade of lipstick and you're good to go!

4. The Perfect Backpack

Spring is the perfect time to go on adventures and you'll need a bag to store your things in.  Why not go for a super cute backpack?  This one is from an online store called Luulla. 

5. Ukelele

I really do think that this is an essential!  A ukelele is much smaller than a guitar but it sounds just as good, even better in my opinion, and you can bring it pretty much everywhere!  They're very cheap, mine was one fifty bucks, and they're super easy to learn how to play, and how to tune them.  I got mine for my birthday and I play it everyday.  It's also great to take on the adventures you may go on in the spring and summer. 

So there is my extremely random list of Spring essentials, comment if you especially like/need one of them!  Which one's your favorite?

Until next time, 

-Carolina 

OOTD - Springtime Outfits

Ciao bellezze!

What I'm listening to: People Help The People - Birdy 

Fun fact about my life right now: I'm planning an out of country trip right now!  More details later.

I haven't blogged in a while and it makes me sad!  I miss it!  I've just been extremely busy as of late with finals and the end of school coming up.  I'm going to try to blog more often though to those who actually read this ol' thing. 

Today I'm going to show you three pretty outfits that I've been wearing lately now that spring is coming (at least, where I live).  Tell me what you think!

This super cute denim dress with pearl buttons is from TJMaxx. The bow is from Bow Kuma and the mustard yellow heels (which I am totally in love with) are from a thrift shop!

This red, starry dress is from Target!  The tights are from Forever 21, as well are the earrings. The hardly- there gray boots are from Target.  The quote is obviously from one of my favorite ladies, Marilyn Monroe.  I just had to throw that in here!

Don't mind my derpy, make up-less face in the first picture, haha!  The pearly, peplum, peter pan collar blouse is from TJMaxx (I'm going to write a post about all the marvelous things I've gotten there soon!).  Somehow, a pen got uncapped in my washing machine and it splattered ink over the top of this blouse.  It wouldn't wash out and after I got over being dismayed, I just sewed a black lace stripe over the stained parts.  I must say, I'm proud!  These jeans are from Love Culture, they're my favorite pair!  The color is so nice and flattering, and they make your ass incredible!  And ladies, we love that. 

Comment and tell me what you think!  What do you think of my modified blouse? 

Until next time, 

-Carolina

Adorable Little Haul

Ciao bellezze!

What I'm listening to:  Farther Along - Josh Garrels

Favorite thing I'm wearing:  An antique-looking floral dress from Target.

Fun fact about my life right now: Whilst returning from buying the dress, I almost hit a car with mine. Scary, scary scary!

So today, I'm going to show you guys the cute things that I ordered a week and a half ago that came this week!  The first things I'm going to show you are from this little shop on Storeenvy called Bow Kuma! They sell bows, a few clothing items, and jewelry and it's all very kawaii and precious. So let's get started!

So first off, the packaging was super duper cute!

With the bows, they also gave you two really pretty cards of their business.  One of the cards has charming little stickers attached to it!  And they also gave you a free mint.

This is a more up close picture of the stickers!  As you can see, they're kawaii and cute and I love them!  I'm thinking about putting them on my bike!

These are the actual bows I ordered and I honestly couldn't be happier!  They are the same size as advertised, the quality in them was tremendous, and they are so. stinking. adorable.  The pink one with the floral and lace design is called 'Princess' although, it's sold out now.  Tears.  If you want one similar to it though, I'd go with 'Cotton'.  It has a floral pattern, it's girly, and I like it a lot!

The second bow is called 'Kitty Bow' and it's sold out as well which makes me really sad!  If you want one similar, I'd go with 'Rilakkuma Picnic' or 'Honey Rilakkuma' because they have the same cute factor as the kitty bow.

Other than the bows, I also ordered two dresses and a blouse from Allegra K on Amazon. They were all really cheap, but they look nice!  Plus, I can sew so if anything needs altering, I can just do it myself and it's a good spend of my money.  I also bought a pair of black heart print nude tights from Romwe (which will probably appear in an OOTD once they arrive!)

I also bought this shirt which is not pictured in the last one because I was wearing it.  This is a dorky photo of my face, but it expresses my joy for my new purchases!

It was such a beautiful day today!  The sun has finally begun to shine through the clouds, so I can wear all my cute things without having to bundle up under a thick coat.

In fact, it was such a nice day that my friend and I rode our bikes to a graveyard and took Polaroids.  And then we ate some delicious homemade macaroons and scones, and drank some tea.  

Hope you all are having a nice day!  Comment if you like any of my purchases, or adore Bow Kuma as well! 

Until next time,

Carolina

Under 5 Minute Vintage Makeup

Ciao bellezze!

What I'm listening to: Give Me Love - Ed Sheeran
Favorite thing I'm wearing - Black long sleeve shirt with silver beads on the shoulders from Forever 21.
Fun fact about my life right now - I bought Les Miserables the movie on the day it came out and to be honest, I watched it two and a half times yesterday.  Marius can marry me right now okay.

Raise your hand if you like waking up early in the morning!
Trick question.
Because there's no way any normal human being enjoys crawling out of their warm, comfy bed in the bitter hours of early morning.  You're lying to yourself if you think otherwise.  Anyways, today I'm bringing you the make up I apply if I really don't have time to spend lots of minutes on my face!  It takes less than five minutes, and you'll look like you spent at least ten!  Hopes this helps those who slap the snooze button four or five times and leave themselves ten minutes to get ready each day (I'm talking about myself).

Maybelline's Dream Smooth Mousse and Dream Liquid Mousse are definitely my favorite things I've discovered in the make up industry.  You can find these foundations literally (bad use of literally) anywhere, I get mine from the local Walgreens or CVS.  They make your skin look incredibly smooth and airbrushed, but they're not too thick and they come in every single skin tone imaginable!  Well, unless you're green or something...

I apply a SPARSE coat of this powder foundation from Mineral Wear with a big fluffy brush.  Make sure to not cake this on, but lightly dust it onto your face.  Too much powder, and your face will look like it's being swallowed by it!

This blush is from Elf!  I regret to inform you that this was a gift and so I have no idea what exact color this is, but it's a very peachy pink color in real life, so just aim for that.  It's light and not totally obvious, it just gives your cheeks a nice, natural glow to them.  I use a small yet fluffy brush.

Apply a thick coat of either of these two mascaras to make your eyelashes look thick and long.  I would highly suggest Scandaleyes from Rimmel for everyday use.  It doesn't clump easily, and it really thickens those lashes, almost making them seem fake! If, however, you need completely waterproof mascara, I'd go with Maybelline's Colossal Volume Express.  It doesn't have the same effect as Scandaleyes, but if enough is applied, it will make your lashes thick and sexy.  And it really doesn't come off in the water!

Last but not least, the signature pin-up girl red lipstick.  I choose CoverGirl's LipPerfection, my bright red color is called Hot.  To be honest, I never leave the house without it, I'm addicted to red lipstick! I'm probably going to review my favorite ones at some point, so stay tuned.

So this is the final look! The lighting is a tad bit too bright, so the blush is hard to make out, but it's there!  My hair's in a lazy side braid which pretty much is my signature style: Laziness. Cute, right?  Probably not.  Tell me if this tutorial was a waste to read, or if you actually enjoyed it/learned something!  I love comments.

Also, I've never really tried bronzer before. If anyone knows any good brands I should try, give me a shout!

Cutest Things on Wanelo

Ciao bellezze! 

What I'm listening to: The Luckiest - Ben Folds 
Favorite thing I'm wearing: Teal and white polka dot bow atop my head!
Fun fact about my life right now: Today I'm supposed to get some of the packages that I ordered last week! I'm getting bows and tights!

Let's just talk about Wanelo.
If you don't know what it is, let me break this wonderful, wonderful site down for you.  It's kind of like Pinterest, showing you pictures of pretty clothes, phone cases, household items, backpacks, anything you could want to buy.  But with Wanelo, they show you the price and exactly where to buy the thing you want! So naturally, I'm going broke.  Because very few things I enjoy more than online shopping.  Getting letters and packages in the mail is one of my absolute favorite things in the world!  So as I was stalking through  casually glancing through this website, I compiled a list of the six cutest things I saw on there!  Enjoy!



This is the cutest phone case I've ever seen!  Personally, I would buy it in pink.



This is way too cute!  I think this for me and my friend soon so we can be matching and adorable! 

                                

Love these boots.  The colors in the floral pattern make my heart sing.
                                            
I adore this inexpensive frilly bandeau bikini top! I'm going to be ordering it soon, so I'm excited. 

                                              

Mint is arguably my favorite color to wear so I love this dress from ModCloth! 

                                         

Still deciding whether I want the black or white dress?  Forty bucks for a dress is kind of expensive for me, but honestly, I'm still going to get one because cats are my obsession.

So that's it.  Comment your opinions, I love them!  Anyone share my love for getting letters and packages?

Follow me on Wanelo! 

OOTD - Cats Cats Cats

Hello darlings! 

What I'm listening to: Music of The Night - Phantom of The Opera (I'm watching the 25th Anniversary on YouTube as we speak)
Favorite thing I'm wearing: Super comfy yoga pants from Victoria's Secret 
Fun fact about my life right now: Currently sobbing over P. O. T. O... Guys I need help.

So today, I'm just writing a quick post about my outfit today, because I rather liked it.  I hope you like it too!

I wore this outfit out yesterday with my friends when we went to a bookstore/Starbucks. Yeah, that's right, coffee AND books, two of my favorite things!  It was a lot of fun, I bought Les Miserables the movie which just came out yesterday, and a white chocolate mocha of course! I'm wearing plain black tights from Charlotte Russe, denim skirt from Forever 21, kitty shirt from Forever 21.  I wouldn't call this 'high end fashion' but I liked the cuteness, especially the kitty t-shirt! 

This is the top up close!  You probably can't read it, but the shirt says 'You had me at meow' which I think is precious!  It's a shirt for supporting the humane society, and it goes well with my pink Hello Kitty case. 

And now here's my face.  I styled my hair with my Remington curling wand, pulled half of it back, popped in a rhinestone covered bow headband and called it good!  I used quite a bit of Rimmel Scandaleyes mascara (which is terrific, everyone should try it) to make my eyelashes thick, and I used two shades of shimmering eye shadow for my lids. 

So that's it for this OOTD, sorry if it was a bit boring for some of you!  I have some very exciting news that goes along with the theme of this post and it is this: I'm getting a cat!!!!

For those who don't know (which is probably everyone) I ADORE cats with all of my heart.  Yesterday at a Petsmart, I pet a cat for twenty minutes straight and I would've done it for hours if I had more time!  The bad news is, my dad is extremely allergic to cats so the idea of owning one hasn't even been entertained. But FINALLY, my parents consented to letting me get one if he stays in my room and never gets out to roam around the house which is fine for me because my room is large enough for a cat to comfortably live in. So I'm super excited, I'm getting a kitten sometime in April!

So now here's the hard part.  Picking out a name.  I'm almost positive I want a boy kitten so comment if you have any adorable names for my future pet who I will most likely end up treating as my child.  Let's hear 'em!

Until next time,

-Carolina 

3 Quirky Thrift Store Treasures

Ciao bello gente!

What I'm listening to: Flapper Girl - The Lumineers (if I could marry a song... this would be it)
Favorite thing I'm wearing: My knitted leggings from Sammydress.com!  The pattern is really cozy and cool.
Fun fact about my life right now:  I'm watching the episode of New Girl where Nick and Jess kiss for the first time and I'm giggling like the village idiot. I just want to be them. Is that too much to ask?

So in my last post, I talked about how I frequent thrift stores quite often.  Well, in this post, I'm going to show you three of the quirkiest things I've gotten while sifting through racks and racks of grandpa sweaters, polyester pants, and adult onesies.  This is the thing though, I wear the things that people laugh at in the store, in public. I can't help myself, I love a good outlandish outfit that most people wouldn't wear!

So here they are in very crappy iPhone quality:

Cost: $2
Why I love it: The collar and the soft blue color immediately appealed to me, but the problem was the length and the altogether Little House on the Prairie look it gave off.  You can't see it, but this dress fell right close to the ankles. So I just shortened the length as well as the sleeves and made them puffier. Then, I belted the darn thing and called it good. I was pretty proud of it at the end, contrary to my expression in the third picture. ;)

Cost: $1
Why I love it:  Honestly, I just adore the wackiness to it.  I tried it on just for fun in the Salvation Army, and two of the workers there begged me to get it because they were firmly convicted that I could pull it off.  The thing is, I actually kind of love this! The shape of it gives me a good looking figure, and what's to hate about that?

Cost: ???
Why I love it:  This, I have to thank my best friend Eva for. She bought this for me, but the original dress had sky high shoulder pads an an unfortunate collar that was humongous and very unflattering. So I just cut out the shoulder pads and the pesky collar and called it good. I LOVE the sunflower buttons and the vintage floral pattern. Oh, and the puffy sleeves are to die for.

So that's it for this post!!  Comment if you share my love for quirky thrift shop treasures, or even if you just want to laugh at my odd taste in clothes! Oh, and my lovely friend Rae fixed up my blog to make it look adorable. Honestly, I'm obsessed with the cursor that bursts with rainbow sparkles! Eeee! Comment and tell me if you like it!

Until next time,

-Carolina

Four Seasons, Four Dresses

Ciao, everyone!

What I'm listening to: Relator - Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson
Favorite thing I'm wearing - My dark blue denim skinny jeans from Love Culture
Fun Fact about my life right now - My leg up to my knee is asleep on the right side! I hate this!

Alright, I have one thing to say before I start talking about pretty clothes.
My blog sucks.
Well, at least the layout/design do at the moment.  But thankfully, my lovely friend Rae from LillyRae Beauty and Fashion is going to spruce up the whole thing and make it look pretty and cute!
Anyways, I was thoroughly creeping through Polyvore (so obsessed... there aren't words for my obsession) and I decided to show you guys four completely adorable casual dresses that I found!  One for each season of course, because dresses should be worn as much as possible, all year 'round in my book.  So here they are, I hope they make you 'oooo' and 'ahhh' as much as they made me:

Spring:

Why I love this: The shape is extremely flattering for all body shapes because the thinnest part of you, your waist, is accentuated. The color combo and sweetheart neck are altogether very delicate and girly.  Also, if the weather's chilly, this dress would go great with a white cardigan. 

How much and where: $59 at Storenvy.com

Summer:


Why I love this: The color, the lace, the see through part at the top, need I say more?! This gorgeous dress, once again, is very flattering. It could be paired with ballet flats to give off a cutesy and feminine vibes, or you could rock out a pair of brown combat boots to edge things up. Either way, adorable!!

How much and where: £ 22.95 at http://www.chiarafashion.co.uk

Fall: 






















Why I love this: First off, Fall is my favorite season, and I positively love Aztec prints in the windy weather. It just makes me feel cozy, and if it gets too cold, I can always slip a pair of warm black tights underneath the dress. I also love to wear a copious amounts of scarves and gloves and boots with dresses like these. 

How much and where: £12.00 at boohoo.com

Winter: 



Why I love this: Peter pan collars are my FAVORITE. Like, it's not even funny how much. I have over a dozen dresses/shirts with the peter pan. Anyways, I also love the flowy skirt material, and the glittery squiggles at the top. Maybe some of you wouldn't wear this as a 'casual' outfit, but I sure would. I would also throw on a rouge colored coat, woolen tights, and sleek boots and face the weather!How much and where: £ 16.95 at http://www.chiarafashion.co.uk

So that's basically it! I realize Spring's dress is pretty expensive, and if you're like me, you don't appreciate spending loads of money on clothes.  What I like to do is hunt through the local thrift stores for a dress that has similar shape, design, and color.  You'd be surprised at how many treasures I've discovered while pillaging the local Good Will!  Just kidding, I don't steal.  I buy.

So this is basically just a look into my personal taste and style. Tell me if you like them and which one is your favorite! When I get actual readers of course ;) 

Until next time,

-Carolina