New Year's Resolutions

Credit.

Is it just me, or has 2010 flown by? Anyways, here are more New Year's resolutions!

1. Speak up. As any of my friends can tell you, I talk. A lot. However, if you just knew me in class, you'd never know it. I'm the kind of student who's quiet, yet attentive-- I don't speak unless the professor directly asks me or we're in small groups. Presentations? My own personal form of torture. Sometimes I choose not to answer because I'm not sure if I'm right (I hate the thought of being wrong in front of the class); sometimes I simply just don't know what to say or how to say it; and sometimes I just feel awkward about speaking up, even if I know I'm right. Regardless, one of my goals is to speak up. Raise my hand if I have something to contribute, ask if I don't understand rather than waiting for someone else to do it. I need to start taking charge more in class, and stop worrying so much about what other people think. The only opinion that matters in class is the professor's, anyways. And I'm sure it would help my participation grades in class... XD

2. Blog more. As you've probably noticed, I haven't been posting regularly since this summer. Part of that has been due to lack of inspiration, part due to being busy, and part due to me just being a bad blogger. I know I've made a lot of promises saying I'll post more, and I can't promise to write X number of posts a week, but I will make an effort to update this blog more regularly :)

3. Keep working out. I started to work out regularly, but then dead week (which ended up being my week from hell) and finals happened, and I didn't go anywhere near the gym. Once I go back to school, though, I definitely need to get back on track (haha, pun intended), and start working out again.

4. Save money. Apparently having a steady income from my part-time job has made me less stingy about money, since I have more of it than I did before. My bad XD Anyways, I need to either stop spending (where does it even go?) or get a second job. I think I'm leaning towards the latter, especially since I have less hours this semester-- shopping is just too much fun to stop.

5. Stop being such a picky eater. Secret: I never outgrew picky eating. In fact, it's gotten worse as I've aged. People have tried to claim they eat less than me, but none have succeeded. Textures, appearances, and smells all bother me. It's really, really bad, and not healthy at all, but I haven't had good experiences with trying things, so I've gotten to the point where I don't even try. However, since I'm planning on traveling in the nearish future (ie within the next year or two), I really need to get over this.

What are your New Year's resolutions? And are you doing anything fun to celebrate the new year?

Hope you have a fabulous New Year's Eve!!

Happy Holidays

Credit.

I just wanted to say that I hope you all had a fantastic Christmas (Hanukkah, Kwanzaa...)!

Also, Magical Monday will resume next week. I'm taking a break in honor of the holidays.

Magical Monday

1. Kittens. Basically, my kitten is the cutest thing ever. (Even if she does make walking dangerous, since she likes to attack legs.)

2. Christmas gifts. Don't you love the idea of coming up with the perfect gift for someone? Usually I don't get very excited about gift-giving, because I never know what to get, but this year I'm really excited about what I did for one of my friends. She'll love it (and if she doesn't I think I might cry).

3. Wall-E. The movie was on tv a few nights ago, and it was my first time watching it since I saw it in theaters. So adorable.

4. Outsourced. Funniest show ever? Quite possibly. I've wanted to watch it since I first saw the commercials, but when I'm at school I tend to not watch much tv (unless it's a show I'm already committed to, and even then I don't always keep up). However, now that I'm home I've discovered they have the entire season on-demand. I highly recommend it! Now I just have to wait until the season restarts in January...

5. Miss A. Ever since a few of my friends became obsessed with Korean-everything last year and it caused a rift in my group of friends, I've been decidedly anti-Korea. They haven't necessarily toned down their obsession (their walls are covered), but they have made it so that you don't feel like such an outsider when you're with them. So when my friend (who is Korea-neutral) showed me the "Bad Girl, Good Girl" music video by Miss A, I didn't really want to like it (though, it should be said, two of the members are Chinese). But I did. It was so incredibly catchy. So I downloaded some all of their songs, and not only do I know have even more incredibly addicting songs, I found an unexpected perk. I usually can't listen to music when I study without it taking me twice as long (or longer), but when it's in Korean, that's not really an issue. It's fabulous!


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.

Hope you have a marvelous Monday!

All I Want For Christmas Is...

Christmas is almost here, and I can't even tell you how excited I am! So, in the midst of trying to figure out the perfect gifts for everyone, I decided to browse around online and make a wishlist. Be warned: This wishlist is considerably longer than my birthday wishlist.


American Eagle: Sweater, Cardigan, Striped Button-Up. TopShop: Cropped Blouse, Cropped White Shirt, Bow Dress.
Delia*s: Coat. Forever 21: Velvet Dress.

Every winter I freeze, and I have two warm(ish) coats, but come on. Who doesn't want more lovely coats? I need more cardigans, so I added the navy one. The cropped blouse would go perfectly with a skirt I've recently purchased, so I added that. That sweater looks like the coziest thing ever. And I just liked everything else :P


American Eagle: Cord Jeggings, Pajama Pants, Sweats. Forever 21: Blue Shorts, White Shorts.
TopShop: Printed Skirt, Polka Dot Skirt. Delia*s: Velvet Shorts, Denim Shorts.

I've been obsessed with the idea of shorts with tights lately, especially now that I don't think my legs look horrible in them. I recently bought a gray pair, but, alas, I don't have a shirt to pair with them. Hopefully I'll fix that soon! Anyways, in the meantime, I'm going to continue drooling over these shorts. Also, I really like the cord jeggings. They're such a nice alternative to denim! The pajama pants look cute and comfortable, and the sweats are a nice alternative to the baggy pairs that I normally wear to the gym (for lack of anything better to wear. I seriously need to invest in workout clothes). Also, aren't the skirts fabulous?


Forever 21: Cowgirl Boots, Black Ankle Boots (Both Pairs), Leather Oxford Booties, Suede Oxfords,
Lace Heels, Beige Suede Heels, Black Oxfords.
Charlotte Russe: Suede Boots, Brown Oxfords. ModCloth: Green Shoes.
TopShop: Beige Patent Leather Heels.

Can you tell I've been lusting over oxfords lately? They're stylish and sexy, and really, what else could you ask for? Also, aren't you impressed by the complete turnaround I've made with heels? I'm totally lusting over them, though I still only own the one pair. Soon, though, hopefully!


Forever 21: Cuff Knee High Boots, Silver Oxfords. TopShop: Sneakers, Brown Oxfords, Zip Up Boots.
Charlotte Russe: Patent Leather Flats, Riding Boots. Delia*s: Mary Janes, Tan Ribbon Oxfords.
ModCloth: Red-Toe Oxfords.

Again, you can see that I'm lusting over oxfords. Also, I really want a pair of knee-high boots. Unfortunately, I have big calves, so most boots don't fit over them :( Hopefully that goes away as I continue working out...


ModCloth: Necklaces, Green Socks, Black Socks. Forever 21: Knit Leggings, Hat, Polka Dot Socks.
American Eagle: White Tights. Urban Outfitters: Umbrella.
Kate Spade: Purse.

I really want knit tights and leggings. I'm obsessed with tights and leggings, and with knit ones, I'm a lot less likely to freeze when it's cold out. Also, I really like the idea of knee high and thigh high socks. And I want more jewelry. Call me nerdy, but the lightning bolt necklace reminds me of Harry Potter (an instant plus). I really want a cute hat (or ten), so I threw this one into the mix. The bag just makes me think of beaches and sunny weather. And I've wanted a bubble umbrella for about a year now. Maybe one day I'll actually by one...

Magical Monday Overdose

Warning: This is going to be very long, in an attempt to make up for completely bailing.

1. Taio Cruz. Oh man, this guy is fabulous. Have you heard the entire CD? I highly recommend "Higher," "I'll Never Love Again," and "Falling in Love."

2. Hugs. Particularly when they're given by lovely boys.

3. Chocolate muffins. Oh, how I've missed thee. My school has fabulous chocolate muffins, and oh dear. So amazing.

4. Getting things figured out. I think I finally decided on what I wanted to major and minor in, which (believe me) is a feat. Now I just need to figure out where to study away...

5. Harry Potter: The Exhibition. If you have the chance, and give a damn about the movies or books, go.

6. Pre-ordering my tickets for Deathly Hallows, Part One. I am so excited! I've watched all the trailers and it looks AMAZING.

7. Actually having money in my bank account. It's amazing what having a job can do XD

8. My family. They always come through for me when I need them, and they're just plain amazing.

9. Getting compliments. Especially when they're from someone who always looks fabulous.

10. Good grades. I've done really well on all three of the tests I've gotten back this week, which made me really happy.

11. Boys that can sing. The acapella concert at my school was a few nights ago, and oh my God, I'm in love with all the boys. Again.

12. Glasses. Because really, who doesn't look sexier with a nice pair of glasses?

13. Gossip Girl. I adore Chuck and Blair.

14. Listening to a fabulous song on repeat. I know I'm not the only one who's guilty of doing this. My record is five hours of the same song XD

15. Twins. And no, I don't mean biological twins. But the few friends you come across who understand you perfectly, because they're just like you.



Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.

Can you tell I've been dreaming of Europe lately?

Toxic

Credit.

You know those people. They're always sarcastic, they make everything about them, they're all take and no give, you're never their first priority, and, quite frankly, you feel terrible whenever your around them. Yet you still call them your friend. To put it bluntly, they're toxic.

Why do we put up with these people in our lives? Friends should be kind, supportive, caring. They should make you feel good about yourself, rather than killing your self-esteem. And yet everyone has had at least one friend that's just no good.

We need to realize that no matter hard much we might want them to, they're not going to change. For as long as they're around, you'll always be second-guessing yourself, doubting the validity of your own opinions when they don't match up, and wondering what you did wrong. But you know what? You are worth more than that. You deserve friends who make you laugh; people who aren't condescending or overly sarcastic (trust me, there's a thin line between joking and just plain being cruel); someone who accepts you, regardless of your flaws.

So cut the toxic friends out of your life. And, if you don't think you can do that (whether that's because you care about them too much or you have a lot of mutual friends), cut back the amount of time you spend with them one-on-one.

Believe me, it's hard. I've dealt with more than my fair share of toxic friends, but it's so much better once you finally leave the negativity behind and find friends who truly care about you. Trust me.

I Haven't Died

Though I admit, today I died and went to Heaven at the Harry Potter exhibition. You seriously never realize how detailed and intricate the props and costumes are until you see them up close.

Also, I'm going to try and get back to a semi-regular blogging schedule again. I came back to school, and the amount of homework and procrastination was more than I anticipated, but I'm going to work on that.

And if you were wondering what the looks for Sporty Spice were, here they are:







Let me know if you want product information, though I doubt anything's in stock still, since I made the sets at the end of August.

Oh, oh, oh, and I can walk in heels now? And you know what? I kind of love them. I only have one pair, but I'm dying to get more!

So, that's it for know, but I will try to update at least once or twice a week now, okay? I promise :)

Spice Girls: Posh Spice

I know Posh Spice (aka Victoria Beckham) is more well-known for her post-Spice years, style-wise, but that's not to say she didn't rock it during her Spice Girls years.


Delia*s: Dress. Aeropostale: Cardigan
Alloy: Heels. ModCloth: Ring

This look could work for any number of occasions. Add the cardigan for the day, and take it off and maybe change into a different pair of heels for night. It's definitely a cute, versatile look, because we don't wear uber-dressy clothes 24/7 like she was able to do.


Forever 21:Metallic Dress, Heels. Delia*sPurple Dress
Asos: Necklace. Windsor: Clutch

This is a good look for those occasions where you do get to get all dolled-up. I included two dresses, because not everyone is comfortable with something as fitted as metallic dress, so I thought the purple one was a good alternative.


Urban Outfitters: Dress. ModCloth: Sandals
Dorothy Perkins: Belt. Monsoon: Bangles
Fred Flare: Necklace

Of the three, this is my favorite look. It's the most wearable look, as well. Overall, it's pretty simple, but I added some accessories (like the cute necklace) to add interest. I mean, the solid dress is pretty much begging for you to add some accessories. I chose to only add a few, to make them the focal point, but if you prefer more, go for it.

So, that's it for Posh Spice. She's another one where you need to ooze confidence. Occasionally shooting a fierce look to those watching you would help, too. Because she had some pretty intense looks.

Also, sorry I'm not particular chatty in this post! I really need to get back into the swing of blogging. But I had the sets made (Sporty Spice's, as well) for a few weeks, so I thought it was better than nothing, since you've already had to wait so long.

I'm Still Alive, I Promise

So, as you know, I've moved back into my dorm and in the midst of that, trying unpack, working, and not feeling good, I've kind of slacked on blogging. I'm almost done unpacking though, now that the rest of my stuff has arrived, so posts should pick up again within the next week.

Back to School Resolutions

Credit.

So, I officially moved into my dorm yesterday (well, kind of-- I have more stuff to bring this weekend), and I started my job today, so it's time for some back to school resolutions. I've heard about this concept time and time again, but this is going to be the first year that I'm coming up with some for myself.

1. Go to the gym more frequently. I know, this is one of the things everyone says, but I was getting pretty good about it last semester. However, over the summer, I barely worked out. My goal is to make sure to go to the gym (or walk the track, etc) two or three times a week. And to not take the elevator up to the third floor, since it's really not that bad of a climb-- it's only one more flight than last year.

2. Become more decisive. As my roommate could tell you, I am the world's most indecisive person. It's awful. I'm going to try and work on it, so we'll see how it goes. Because really, I don't need to spend five minutes just trying to figure out what answer to pick on a Facebook quiz. That's ridiculous.

3. Be more positive. I already did a post on that, and it's pretty self-explanatory, so I don't want to bore you by repeating myself.

4. Save money. I have three major things that I'm saving for (study away, summer in England, and trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter), so I really have to start saving up my money. I used to be really good about being stingy, but I've gotten a little lax about that, and I really need to start saving. Hopefully it'll be easier since I have a job now, which means I finally have a steady flow of cash. It's not a lot, but everything helps.

5. Stop procrastinating. This is another one that everyone says they want to do, but I'm going to actively take measures to stop that. I get stressed really easily, and procrastinating is one way to guarantee that my stress level goes way up. And last semester I forced myself not procrastinate on studying for finals, and I felt way more confident and I did better. I mean, a class I thought I might get a B+ in, I ended up getting an A in. If nothing else, it showed how much of a difference it makes, and the desire to raise my GPA should be motivation enough (Calculus killed me, so I'm still in the process of mending it).

So, do you have any back to school resolutions?

Spice Girls: Scary Spice

I told you she was next, so this post is inspired by none other than Scary Spice (aka Melanie Brown) herself. While her style has been toned way down in recent years, at the height of the Spice Girls' fame it was definitely out there.


Abercrombie:Tank Top. Forever 21: Pants. Aerie: Bra
Dr. Martens: Doc Martens. Motorcycle Superstore: Motorcycle Boots
Rue 21: Clips. Twigs: Bracelet

Walking around in a top that resembles a bra or bikini top isn't exactly kosher with the rest of the world, so I threw added a simple tank top with a twist (I love the back). Though, if you feel so inclined, you could buy it a size or two too big, so it sleeps down and shows the very top of your bra. That way it's more casual, and less "Look at me!" I swapped out the more traditional camo pants for a skinny option, but if you prefer the baggier styles, by all means go for it! This is just my interpretation. I included classic Doc Martens, but they're not cheap, so I included a cheaper option as well.


Asos: Belt, Bracelets. Forever 21: Dress
Ami Clubwear: Heels

Scary Spice was known for her love of leopard print, and this particular outfit was one of her most well-known outfits. I chose a dress as an easy way to pull off this look, and finished the look of with simple accessories. After all, you don't want the accessories to be too loud, since the dress should be the focal point of your outfit.


Tobi: Tank Top. YesStyle: Cardigan.Pac Sun: Shorts
Nordstrom: Converse. Go Jane: Ring.
Miss Selfridge: Headband

This is the easiest look to wear, so it's perfect for those who aren't comfortable with a lot of pattern. It's cute, comfortable, and you can wear it almost anywhere. It's also simple, so I chose to spice it up with a glitzy headband and a fun ring.

So, what do you think?

Magical Monday

Credit.

It's Monday again! This last week seems like it went by so slowly, but at the same time really quickly. If that makes any sense at all. It probably didn't, but oh well. Here are five things that made me happy.


Credit.

1. Kittens. As I already told you, my mom said yes to getting a new kitten and I couldn't be more excited! My friend said that she's super sweet, and she looks absolutely adorable (though she looks absolutely nothing like the kitten in the picture). It's a bummer I'll be at school most of the time, so I won't see her often, but oh well. The minute I move off-campus (even if it's a couple years away), her and my other kitty will move in with me.


Credit.

2. Good hair days. Lately my hair has been air-drying really well and it's fabulous! The waves are looking better, and the frizz is toned down a bit (with the exception of yesterday). Hopefully my hair keeps it up!


Credit.

3. Getting my ticket. My friends and I bought our tickets to Harry Potter: The Exhibition. I seriously cannot wait until I can go! Also, don't you wish all tickets were as adorable as the ones in the picture?


Credit.

4. Spontaneous parties. My brother decided to throw a spontaneous party as an pre-birthday party party, and it was surprisingly fun. It was just us, my mom, and the neighbors, but there's nothing quite like you and your mom dancing horribly and singing loudly to various songs.


Credit.

5. My little brother. Don't get me wrong, he can drive me absolutely crazy! But when he wants to be, he can be the sweetest boy ever. He's been extra sweet lately (which is good, because I've been babysitting us a lot), and I absolutely love it. (And don't let the picture I used fool you-- we're not that close in age. There's a twelve year age gap between us).

So, what have you been loving the past week?

You're Never Too Old For: Headbands

Credit.

Aren't you proud of me for not using a picture of Blair Waldorf?

I love headbands, but sadly only have two. Crazy, right? There's an enormous variety of them, so no matter what your personal style is, you can find one to fit it. And, I mean, come on-- they're a great, cheap way to add a little visual interest to any outfit.


Forever 21: 2, 4, 5, 8, 12, 13, 15. Urban Outfitters: 6, 7, 11, 14
Charlotte Russe: 1, 3, 9. Dorothy Perkins: 10

This collection is nature-themed. As you can see, it's mostly flowers. However, I made sure to include a wide variety, from the over-the-top #3 to the simple, understated #2. I was also sure to include non-floral headbands, like #14. They're perfect for whatever statement you want to make.


Forever 21: 2, 5, 8. Urban Outfitters: 1, 3
Charlotte Russe: 6, 7. Nordstrom: 4

I chose to make this set embellished headbands (with two bow ones thrown in for good measure). These headbands add a little bit of class to every outfit. Also, can't you just picture them on Blair? I especially love 2 and 4. Gorgeous.


Charlotte Russe: 1, 3, 4, 5, 8. Forever 21: 2, 6, 7, 11
Urban Outfitters: 9, 12. Delia*s: 10

These headbands are all more simple, and therefore better for those who aren't too sure if headbands are right for them. Also, you can get away pairing them with pretty much anything.

So, throw on a headband and channel your inner-Blair! You know you have one.

Do you adore headbands like me? Or do you think I'm crazy, and am I letting my love of Gossip Girl go to my head (pun unintended, but amusing)?

Spice Girls: Baby Spice

This post is inspired by Baby Spice (aka Emma Bunton), who was known for her long blonde pigtails and sweet demeanor.


Endless: Bright Blue Flats, Bright Blue Heels. ModCloth: Navy Heels, Ring.
Dorothy Perkins: Necklace. Target: Navy Flats.
Hollister: Plaid Dress. Delia*s: Navy Dress

I was feeling a bit indecisive when I made this set. I wasn't sure to go literal with a plaid dress or not, so I went with both. Also, I added flats, because let's face it, they're comfortable. However some people prefer heels, and that's what she was wearing in the picture, so I included an option for you too. I also made sure that they weren't too high, so you could get away with wearing them during the day. The necklace was a sweet, girly twist, and the ring was fun and cute.


Gilly Hicks: Dress. Old Navy: Cardigan.
American Eagle: Flats. Target: Heels.
TopShop: Headband

You had to know a pink outfit was coming. A pink blazer isn't very practical, so I swapped it for a cardigan, and added a sweet dress. Again, I gave you an option for shoes. Also, I thought the headband was a sweet touch.


Dorothy Perkins: Pink Dress, Bracelets. Forever 21: Black Dress.
YesStyle: Flats. Keds: Sneakers.
Loris Shoes: Clutch

Okay, the pink dress was just too gorgeous to pass up. And it has a similar neckline, so I figured why not? This is a post about Baby Spice. And, of course, the black dress is taking a more direct inspiration from the actual dress she's wearing in the photo. If you've got the legs to rock sneakers and dresses, go for it, however for those with shorter legs like me, I added flats. Sneakers paired with dresses can make your legs look like stumps if you're not careful. The accessories I added could easily work with either dress.

I understand Baby Spice's style is a little too sweet for some people's taste, but have no fear! There are still three girls to go, all of whom have a very distinct style. We've already covered sexy and sweet, and next will be wild with Scary Spice. Hope you're ready for it ;)

Thoughts: Tattoos

I've been thinking about getting one on and off for awhile now. I finally have an idea of what I would get, but I don't know if I'm able to commit to having something inked on my body for the rest of my life. Not to mention I'm terrified of needles. And I'm afraid it'll hurt.

So, while I may never work up the nerve, these people have, so enjoy looking at their amazing tattoos.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.


Credit.

Aren't they stunning?

Anyways, what do you think about tattoos? Love 'em, hate 'em? Do you have any? Did they hurt? I'd love to hear your thoughts!


Follow my blog with bloglovin