Fall Essentials: Kicking it Off

I don't know if I have mentioned it before, but I have kind of been in the process of a closet overhaul since high school. It wasn't that I had bad style back then...I've been preppy since the day I was born (yeah, I did have the embarrassing denim skirt and popped polo phase...who didn't?), but I sometimes bought cheap, trendy pieces that sat in my closet making it look infinitely more full than it was. 
From now on, I am all about the reusable, multi-outfit essentials (plus the occasional fun piece...they're necessary). I decided to share some of my favorite additions for fall, even if it is still hot outside...but it's okay because the Pumpkin Spice Latte is backkkkk!

Factory Accordion Pleat Mini

I did not buy this in every color...okay maybe I did. Whatever, I am in love with this skirt. It is a great wool blend that is perfect for chilly fall and winter days. I am debating returning the gray one because it feels a little "Catholic School Girl Uniform" to me, but they really are the best. Skirts that sit higher on me tend to be more flattering and I just love the way these fit.  The skirt doesn't have a lot of give and I wanted it to look a bit more A-line so I went with the 6 instead of the 4. (this skirt order was a fiasco for me and I literally ended up with 16 of them....you probably think I am kidding, but I'm not)

Penny Loafers

Okay, I love these and while I don't have them, I am desperate for a pair. I don't know if I prefer the darker burgundy or tan, but they're a great shoe. The advantage of these is that they're more substantial than a flat, but can easily be worn with a skirt too...perfect for those of you trying to cram a wardrobe into a dorm room. My desire for these may also stem from my love of Nancy Drew books when I was younger when I read them all (in numerical order because I can't deal with reading books out of order).

Ponte Pants and Leggings

Ponte is basically a gift from God. I'm serious, if you haven't tried these leggings yet, do it now. They're so comfortable and much more substantial than leggings (great for girls like me who have a butt!). I got the J. Crew Gigi Pant, but they're a bit long so I need to get them hemmed (also order a size down!). I also ordered the C. Wonder Jodhpur Legging in their (awesome) labor day sale in navy. I figured a Navy legging was good for me to have, plus I love the patch on the inside of the leg...cute detail!

Fall Coats

I didn't get much use of these my freshman year at Virginia Tech since it goes straight to winter with that wind chill, but I got so much use out of my LL Bean Barn Coat last year. While I'd love a Barbour, there is no way my budget will allow for that expense until I graduate and get a big girl job. I also picked up a cute J. Crew jacket (similar) in their August sale and am really excited to have it to add to my fall wardrobe. 

Button-ups and Popovers

I love button-ups and have started to develop quite the collection. They're perfect for jeans, skirts, or any bottom you pair them with. They add an effortless level of completion to any outfit. Popovers are also great, I got my first one recently and I am thinking of adding more. They're a little less formal and perfect to pair with leggings.

I'll do a couple more fall essential posts in the coming weeks...I just couldn't wait to share some of my favorites! What are your staple fall pieces?

xoxo,
SSP

Thirsty Thursday: Cup O' Joe

I am a coffee addict. There is no denying it. I need my coffee in the morning, I accept my weakness and move on. Some of you say it's unhealthy...clearly this is because you haven't seen me try to function without the stuff. Sure, I try to wean myself off it a bit around finals (caffeine increases stress), but the rest of the year is all about starting the morning off with a cup of joe. 
In college, I tend to take my coffee on the go with me (sometimes it's my second cup, but who's counting). I have collected quite a few mugs over the years, though my go-to is definitely my 2013 Spring Training Tervis (or my Margaritaville one for the double-dose days). I try to avoid getting a cup at Starbucks if I can, especially for regular coffee. Plus, if you use your cup, you get a discount! So save the environment a bit and grab one of these chic mugs to tote your beverage around in.

Tervis Tumbler

These things rock. They're perfect for hot or cold beverages, come in several sizes and all sorts of patterns. I have both a regular and large Tervis and I alternate depending on what I'm drinking. Oh, and you can also get these monogrammed...double win!

Lilly Pulitzer Travel Mug

I mean, I had to include Lilly. It's cute and functional. Basically it takes all of my self-restraint not to buy one of these cute mugs. 

Magnolia Lane Mugs

You need one of these. No, I'm serious. Magnolia Lane mugs don't mess around with size, it's like drinking a fishbowl of coffee. I have a Virginia Tech one at home (I went there freshman year, don't judge) and it is my favorite mug hands down. Also, Magnolia Lane creates so many other adorable ceramic goodies, perfect for any hostess or birthday gift!

Pier 1 Imports Mugs

I love the happy and colorful mugs from Pier 1. My big gave me one of these giraffe mugs in one of my baskets during big sis week and it's my favorite at school. I sometimes race drinking my coffee down so the giraffe doesn't drown...yeah, I'm five, it's whatever.

Contigo Mugs

Back to a travel mug here with a super tightly sealed mug. Seriously, these things are amazing. I had one in High School that could easily keep my coffee hot for half the day as I sipped on it throughout the morning (you know, before I was a true addict).

What's your favorite coffee mug? Are there any other awesome travel mugs I missed?

xoxo,
SSP

Note to Self: Kate Spade Does it Again

I admit, I used to not see the purpose behind an iPad. I mean, come on, it's basically a giant phone that people try to pass off as a laptop, right? Wrong.

Since getting my iPad for Christmas, I have learned just how awesome they can be. Seriously, I would be lost without this gadget. It acts as a notepad for class, book, game host, and so much more...oh and it's totally travel sized. I actually have a keyboard for my iPad so that I can just take that to class instead of my Macbook Pro. Some days there are just too many things to carry for too long to want to deal with a full-fledged laptop. While my keyboard is totally awesome, I was lacking a certain stability element.
I needed a case. Basically, I got my heart set on a Kate Spade one that said "Eat Cake for Breakfast," but knew it was totally out of the question to spend that kind of money on a case. So I waited...and I waited. I didn't know what I wanted, but I did know that the dinky sleeve I had it in was tempting fate.

Finally, I came across a Kate Spade sale at the outlets and snagged a portfolio. This is the perfect case because it doesn't require snapping in like the Lilly Pulitzer one, but it is still cute and protective. I love that it totally blends in with my school supplies as well. 

Also, I have the Kate Spade gold polka dot case for my iPhone...my laptop seems lonely. Maybe I should get a sleeve so it feels better ;) Seriously, I just love her stuff...all of it!

What is your favorite tech case?

xoxo,
SSP

Lesportsac Giveaway!

Is there any better feeling than finishing the work week and knowing it's Friday? Probably not, unless you get the chance to win something on top of that! Well, how about I help make this a great Friday and give you the chance to win a brand new Lesportsac rolling suitcase? Yes, we have teamed up to give one away and the giveaway will run from today through 12am next Friday, and the winner will be announced then.

Recently my cousin, and fellow chi omega, who is interning with Lesportsac in New York City (lucky duck!) sent me a couple of bags to try out. Guess what? I am in love. Seriously, I may never put my new signature tote down. They are such well made bags and their new prints are fun and sophisticated. I am so excited to test out my weekender and purse as well!
I know that at school I always want to be able to leave for the weekend to visit my friends, cousins, and now my brothers, at their schools. The problem had always been finding a bag that stored well in my dorm room, but was also practical for the amount of stuff I take on a typical weekend excursion. Lesportsac sent me the perfect weekender in their Lacey Lana print that I am planning on getting a lot of use out of this upcoming year.
Of course, I can't just keep all this great stuff to myself, so Lesportsac and I have teamed up to give you a 22" rolling suitcase in Aberdeen Stripe, one of their fall prints that has yet to be released! This suitcase is a great size and the nylon is so easy to clean. Plus, the soft exterior means there is plenty of room to cram all of your travel needs in it, with extra storage in the 3 exterior pockets! There is even a pouch that snaps into the bag which is perfect for toiletries you don't want to spill onto anything else. This perfect bag retails for $275, but one of you lucky readers is going to get it absolutely free! 
a Rafflecopter giveawayAlso, my Instagram followers can gain extra entries by following the directions on this post! Feel free to post it up to once a day to maximize your chance of winning!

good luck!

xoxo,
SSP

Back-to-School Best Dressed

"I like my money right where I can see it, hanging in my closet." -Carrie (SATC)

If any of you feel this way, or are just in the business of back to school shopping, keep reading. Right now is the prime time to stock up on all those back-to-school necessities because it seems like everyone is having a sale! I have already hit up the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and J. Crew Factory, but I know there are more and I wanted to share them with y'all so you can stock up without going broke!

J. Crew Factory Sale: 40% Off the Entire Website/Store

end date: August 4th

I got a couple of items that I had been needing to add or replace in my wardrobe at a great discount. I also got the ponte pant, which I will definitely be reviewing at a later date for y'all...I think they may be the best things ever!

H&M Online Shopping: It Exists

end date: Never!

Okay, any other H&M fans out there? Recently the giant H&M closed at Tyson's (my mall) and I was so sad because that was where I went for affordable basics and comfy sweaters. Now, I don't have to worry anymore because you can finally online shop in the US! This is big, people, really big.

Rue La La: Lilly Pulitzer and Jack Rogers

end date: opens today at 11am

If you aren't a member yet, this is me inviting you! Seriously, just join, it's free and you get access to sales like these...you need to have one of these invitations though. They will have LILLY PULITZER and JACK ROGERS today at 11. Stock up for next year if nothing else. You know you won't regret it.

C. Wonder: 50% Off Markdowns

end date: none posted

All markdowns are 50% off! I have scored a couple key accessories, a pair of driving moccasins, and a great, tailored button down. Their store is so happy and bright, I just love going there and the prices are such a steal in this sale, my shoes only cost $25...and retailed for $100!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

end date: August 4th

If you haven't hit this up yet...you really should! They have so much! If you want to see my favorites, check out this post from a while ago.

Are there any sales that I missed and should add to this list? Have a great time shopping ladies!

xoxo,

SSP

Bag Lady

Do you ever get so excited about something that you just can't sleep? I mean, like something that is far off in the distance or a gradual change? If you do, you understand how I am feeling writing this post. 
I am planning to be 100% moved into my apartment by August 17th and I am so excited for this chapter of my life. Basically, preparing for it is consuming all of my free time and thoughts. What am I going to wear? How am I going to decorate? Am I prepared for my classes? How much will books cost this year? If there is a question, I have asked it.
Well, since I know it is consuming my time, I imagine some of y'all are thinking about it as well. Right now I have a to-do list so long that I may have an anxiety attack if I write it down, but I know that slow and steady wins the race (well, to an extent).
First up on my list is the trusty school bag. Bags are such an important part of the day-to-day routine, whether it be to the office, class, or shopping. As a result, they're 100% worth the investment in a quality piece that will last through the abuse. Personally, I have been alternating between my North Face backpack and Longchamp tote since high school. My tote has definitely seen some better days and now that I don't want to use it every day, I am in the market for a new bag.

Longchamp Le Pliage Large Bag

I just know I can't go wrong investing in another one of these. They are more than worth the money and I may get a new one regardless! I have the Navy one and would definitely reccomend the darker color for longer wear.

Tuckernuck Sunday Bag

I first saw this bag on The College Prepster (she's giving one away right now!). I just love the size and obvious durability of it. It is also a great bag to transition to a weekend getaway (to Blacksburg for a football game?). Oh, and did I mention the monogramming is free?

Vineyard Vines Tote

I love these totes. i have one but my dog got to one of the straps a couple of years ago so I am wary about making it a daily bag. These have nice structure and, again, the canvas is nice to clean. Plus, you can get them with your school or favorite sports team (how do I choose?) as the print at the top!

Michael Kors Tote

I know a lot of people who love these. Personally, it is a bit pricy but that leather does provide a great and polished look! They also have a smaller size I have seen a lot of people getting to take around as a secondary bag.

North Face Recon Backpack

Apparently this is one of the more "masculine" backpacks but I really don't care. I have this bag in black and plan to keep it forever. It is a great bag for those days where you have a lot to carry and aren't worried about it pulling up a skirt in the back (been there, got that t-shirt).

LL Bean Canvas Tote

Any of these bags are awesome. Monogram away and choose a fun color. They're affordable and cute...what more could you want?

What is your go-to school bag?

xoxo,
SSP

P.S. Go check out the J. Crew Factory Sale going on right now...40% off is a great way to stock up on those back-to-school necessities!

Christmas In July

It's the most wonderful time of the year...the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale! 

This is no ordinary sale, this is a sale that includes some of the hottest items for the fall, not just last season's leftovers!

Here's my wish list, what's on yours?

Kate Spade 'tidbit' Plates

technically these aren't on my wish list since I bought them already ;) but they are just too cute and the colors go perfectly with my room plan for my apartment!

Enzo Angiolini Riding Boots

love the brown and black combo!

Nike Sneakers

I need a new pair of day-to-day sneakers and these might just fit the bill with their friendly price tag.

Kate Spade Phone Case

I am getting my iPhone 5 on Monday and need a case for it, why not this adorable Kate Spade one?

Michael Kors Watch

Loving this bracelet watch...perfect for any arm party!

Kate Spade Studs

Nothing like a cute, fun pair of studs!

Ellen Tracy Trench Coat

A khaki trench coat is a necessary staple in anyone's wardrobe.

What are your favorite Anniversary Sale Items? And don't forget, there are going to be a few SSP announcements coming up!

xoxo,

SSP

Keep the Green

Let me preface this post by saying that anything I may know about budgeting, I have learned by trial and error. By no means am I the poster child for money management, but I am trying to make it work, just like most of you!
If you are in college, or have graduated from college, you understand what it's like to be on a tight budget. Gone are the days of laundry being free or your fridge magically being restocked. You need some new socks for the snow storm tomorrow? Catch a bus to the store and pick them up for yourself. But for all the trials that come with this new responsibility, the financial freedom it allows can be so liberating.
Of course, it is only liberating if you keep the money in your account. Piggy banks are great and all (did you see mine on Instagram?) but they sure don't hold as much money as the bank does. So what do I do to keep some coin in the bank?

Recently I saw that Carly from The College Prepster had an app called Mint.com on her iPhone so I decided to check it out, and guess what? It ROCKS!
Seriously, if you don't already have this app, get it now. The whole purpose of it is to help you budget your expenses. Not only can you create an overall budget for the month, but you can also make one by category. So you can allot $100 for gas each month and another amount for groceries, etc. That way, when you are buying things, you know exactly how much you spent on particular categories to adjust your budget accordingly.
I am fortunate enough to be working 2 jobs and have an internship this summer so I will have a nice chunk of change to survive on this school year. However, I am trying to learn the lesson of "just because it's there, doesn't mean it needs to be spent." In fact, while I was (kinda still am) debating a

no...this is not my account info (I wish it was!)

My biggest financial problem has always been the budget. I don't buy hugely expensive things, but I rarely leave Target spending less than $70. Now, if I have a $100 Target trip (who doesn't love a good Target trip), I can plan accordingly for a few weeks to make up for the money I lost. Sure, it isn't a perfect system, but it's infinitely better than the (lack of) one I have going. 

How do you manage your money best?

xoxo,
SSP

In the Nude

Okay...this post is probably not what you are assuming based on the title. Yeah, it says nudity, no it doesn't mean you should go drop out of school and join forces with the naked cowboy...I am talking about nude flats. The nude flat is perfect for school or work, summer or winter, formal or informal...basically, it's perfect.

I live in flats and boots at school. Seriously, I love my flats because I am not coordinated, nor do I care enough, to kill my feet navigating the brick sidewalks at school in heels. They also translate really well into my summer wardrobe, making them an awesome investment piece. I got my nude flats from DSW during my senior year of High School and have completely worn them into the ground (same with my black ones...ugh). The other day I was looking at them and realized how badly I needed a new pair, and how badly y'all need these in your wardrobe. Girls who are heading off to dorm life, buy rain boots, nude flats, sneakers, and riding boots...that is all you will need (I mean, I had way more...but that's just me). I wear these flats all the dang time. I can throw them on and am basically guaranteed that they will match whatever I am wearing at the time. Plus, if you're short like me, you could use the slightly longer leg look they provide.

Personally, I am a huge fan of the Steve Madden Heaven flat. They are $40, and $40 well spent. These flats have survived 3 years, two of which involved traipsing around college campuses. My flats have paid for themselves ten times over and I am so sad to see them go (so is my bank account).
While I love these flats, I am actually thinking of investing in a different pair. I like pointed toe flats because they make my short legs look longer, so I have been looking at those.
Again though, I love these Steve Madden ones and even if I don't end up with the nude ones again,  they have a bunch of other colors that will probably end up in my wardrobe.

What is your go-to flat?

xoxo,
SSP

Pearls are a Girl's Best Friend

Marilyn may have preferred diamonds, but I believe pearls are a girl’s best friend. Pearls are classic, elegant, and unlike most jewelry, they get betterwith age and use.

Last Tuesday, I was lucky enough to get to go to an event at the City Club in DC with my Momma and one of her good friends, who I’ve known, basically my whole life. The event was called “Chanel and her Love of Pearls.” Yeah, this event was made for me, right?

Momma, Me, and Ms. B (l-r) at the event

While I was there, shopping and networking, I really thought about how amazing pearls are. If you are going on vacation and bring one strand of pearls and a pair of studs, I promise you’ll be fine. As many of you have probably noticed by now, I rarely change from my pearls and I seem to manage just fine ;)

"A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls." -Coco Chanel

Anyways, this pearl event was fabulous and the best part was the steep discount offered. The company that brought the pearls both produces and distributes them, meaning they are much less expensive than what you get at a retailer. They are no Mikimoto, but hey, they work and they don’t completely break a college girl’s bank account.

"I favor pearls on screen and in my private life" -Grace Kelly

Princess Diana had many pearls she cycled through

"Pearls are always appropriate." -Jackie Kennedy

That being said, if you want to wear pearls without worrying about losing them, go for some good glass pearls. Seriously, $10 at Macy’s and you won’t be brokenhearted when they disappear, that’s what I do! However, if you want the real deal, searching Etsy has resulted in some promising and affordable options as well. It all depends on what you want to spend, and what you want for your money. 

What is your go-to accessory?

xoxo,

SSP

The Working Girl's LBD

Okay, so the whole 2 job plus an internship thing may have been a bit much for one summer, but I am trying to make it work. I have so many little tricks and tips to share with y'all that I have picked up so far and I can't wait to post about them.

The first Working Girl tip I have is a perfect Why Buy This Wednesday. I am talking about the LBD, no, not a sexy cocktail number (though those are just as necessary) this is the work dress. The work LBD is the most crucial part of a wardrobe, right up there with the black (pencil) skirt. This dress is so easy to build off of and dress up or down. If you get the right fabric it is way more comfortable than any dress pant you'll ever own and keeps a feminine touch. Plus, these dresses are great to go right from work to happy hour!

Even if you aren't in the workforce, get this. It is crucial to have a business casual outfit (or two) in college, especially if your sorority has formal chapter every week like mine. Throw a cardigan, blazer, or nothing on over it and add a great necklace. The best part about this dress is that with accessories you can wear dozens of outfits without ever repeating. 

Personally, my go-to work LBD is quite old. It is actually from my freshman year of high school when my grandmama passed away. I chose it because it was something that I thought I would wear again, and boy was I right about that. Admittedly, it is getting a bit ratty and I know I am largely going to have to retire it (or get it some backup at least) soon. I featured some work LBDs here and while they may not seem like a super steal to some of you, if there is a dress worth the investment, it's this. Seriously though, mine is the perfect piece to transition from my office job to Talbots when I pull double shifts and I get compliments on the outfits all the time!
The dresses I chose here are all from Nordstrom because they have a great selection of styles. Seriously, I only featured a couple but they have pages of fabulous dresses like these!

Sleeveless Styles: Halogen Seamed Sheath Dress ($49.49) Chiffon Underlay Shift Dress ($139.00)

the dress I have is sleeveless and the biggest advantage of this is that it doesn't get too hot if you throw a cardigan on or bunch up. Most offices require some sort of sleeve, but adding a cardigan to get up to dress code is a way that you can change this look up so it's a win-win.

Cap Sleeve: Ruched Jersey Sheath Dress ($98.00) Pleated Fit & Flare Dress ($118.00)

Most of the dresses are either sleeveless or have longer sleeves, very few are a true traditional short sleeve because that tends to have a less formal look to it. The cap sleeve is perfect because it covers your shoulders enough that if you don't want a cardigan (dress code permitting), you don't need one. Also, the flowy skirt is a great piece for those days you go right from the office to happy hour!

Long(er) Sleeve: Twist Front Jersey Sheath Dress ($118.00)

Don't want to mess with a cardigan, but still want to rock your LBD? That is totally okay. There are several styles of dresses with longer sleeves that are appropriate for the office, just remember to add a necklace or bracelet for some color!