Outfits: Crazy & Flirty Skirts

It's been a while since I've posted here, mainly because a lot has happened in the past month, including the fact that I now have my full driver's license!!! (Finally!) My summer course ends on Thursday, which will leave me the whole month of August to blog :)
Today I have a few outfits that I wore to work last week / would wear to work. Sadly, I cannot wear my usual t-shirt and cut-off shorts to give flute lessons or work at a children's clothing store (and if you do either of these, you shouldn't be wearing that either). So here are some more appropriate options that also agree with the warmer weather.

Blouse: Urban Behaviour

Skirt: Simons

In my hurry to change out of my usual summer attire, I forgot to accessorize...but really, you can add anything to this. Personally, I would recommend a statement necklace, either silver or gold, or maybe some bangles. The blouse is sheer, so I added a cami underneath (which you can't see here). 

T-shirt: Target

Skirt: Target

Cardigan: Old Navy

Necklace: Forever 21

My crazy skirt is back again! :P I actually wore it to work with a plain white tee, but realized that black is also a good option! This skirt has so many colours that it goes with anything, like a pale pink, navy, or orange. 

Blouse: Bluenotes

Skirt: Target

The Target skirt makes another appearance! I just wanted to show another cool way to wear it- kind of like colour-blocking. For jewellery I would most likely go with gold here (either a dainty necklace or bracelet, nothing too over the top because the focus is on the skirt) to complement the skirt. 

What do you wear to work (you know, if you don't have a uniform)? Let me know! :)

Spring Outfits, Modcloth, and More

I've noticed that the outfits that I've created recently on Polyvore have all featured the basic plain white tee. I didn't realize this until I looked through them the other day. It just goes to show that it is a staple that can be dressed up or down in very simple ways, such as with a skirt and cardigan, a statement necklace, or a leather jacket. You can never go wrong with a plain white tee! :)
A few weeks ago I finally decided to order a dress off of Modcloth, an online store with the cutest vintage-inspired clothes. It took me a long time to choose, since everything on there is absolutely gorgeous, but I finally decided on this blue knee-length dress with tiny polka dots, and I absolutely love it! It fits perfectly and I cannot wait to wear it! (Side note: I apologize for the awful picture quality; even with editing, the background is still weirdly yellow.)

It has finally started warming up, so the other day I sported this preppy spring outfit. I got the blouse as a birthday present and I love the little dot pattern on it!

Blouse: Tommy Hilfiger (at Hudson's Bay)

Pants: Smart Set

Last piece of news: I went shopping last week at Winners of all places and I actually found something! Usually Winners is just a mess of different styles, brands, and sizes, but once in a while I do find the hidden gems, such as this crazy t-shirt. 

It's so bright and fun for the summer that I thought, well, why not? Tropical print on one side and tie-dye on the other- it's pretty out of my comfort zone but this year I've been wanting to branch out from my standard uniform of floral, pink, and lace. Also, it fits right in with one of the biggest trends of the season that I described in one of my last posts: art prints. 

Until my next post, stay stylish! :)

"These streets will make you feel brand new"

"These streets will make you feel brand new" by mariathefashionista featuring a red cardigan

If you inferred correctly from the title, yes, I am off to New York City next week! I put together three outfits for different activities that I may be doing. 

The first outfit is for a day of sightseeing. I went casual with this one, pairing together the basic jeans and tee. To not look too touristy, I added some combat boots, a light jacket, and a scarf. From browsing some New York street style, I've noticed that the key is layering, so that's what I aimed for in this everyday, out-on-the-town outfit. If the weather warms up during the day, it's easy to take off the jacket and the scarf. 
The next outfit is for a night out, and I know I'm definitely having a couple of those while I'm there! I kept it very classy and conservative with a patterned dress and solid heels. Perfect for those Broadway (and off-Broadway) shows!
I was a little hesitant with the last outfit, but I think it will work for a day of window shopping or casual outings, like a picnic in Central Park. I just have a cardigan paired with the floral skirt and white tee, but it could be easily substituted for a leather jacket or blazer.

And there you have it! Comment down below with any outfit ideas / staples for travelling and sightseeing! Until my next post, stay stylish! :)

Easter Outfit Ideas

I'm baaackkkk!!!! Exams are done so I am now fully able to do as much blogging and fashion related things as I like for four whole months. To start off, I have some outfit ideas for Easter, whether you're going out to dinner, going to church, spending time with family, or just really want to look your best! You may recognize some pieces from earlier outfits, but that's just because they're some of my most worn items!

Outfits 1 & 2: Church

Blouse: Bluenotes

Pants: Dynamite

Necklace: This & That Axesoir

Shirt: H&M

Skirt: Jacob

Bracelets (left to right): Accessorize, Forever 21, Justice Clothing

I put these two outfit ideas together because they are both perfect for Sunday morning church. For the first option, I really like statement necklaces at the moment, but nothing too big and chunky, so I find that this one is a nice balance between the two. The second option is a bit more dressy because of the flower / ruffle detailing at the neckline. I opted for a few bracelets instead of a necklace for this one. Also, I forgot about tights, but a solid black pair would do the trick here! For shoes I would recommend some basic black heels for both options. 

Outfit 3: Family Time

Dress: American Eagle

Cardigan: Old Navy

Bangles: Forever 21

I bet you were wondering how long it would take me to put something floral in this post :P Now that it is finally spring, florals are definitely the way to go, especially for Easter. I love the corset detailing on this dress, not to mention that it is very well made. I paired it with a pink cardigan to brighten up the navy, and the bangles add some fun to the look. I would add some pink or navy flats to complete this outfit.  

Outfit 4: Dinnertime 

 

Top: American Eagle

Skirt: Simons

Necklace: Forever 21

My second favourite thing: lace. Of course I had to include it! This top is gorgeous, I've worn it out so many times and gotten a lot of compliments. The shirt is not too long, so the cute bow waistband of this bright blue skirt still peaks through. The skirt, despite its short length, has some great pluses: it's nice and thick, and, it has pockets! For shoes both heels and flats would work well with this outfit. 

Bonus: Easter Extras

I am currently loving Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh perfume. The best way to describe this scent would be...fresh! I know, descriptive, right? There's also a slight floral undertone. Seriously, how much more spring can you fit in a bottle decorated with flowers? :) My next must-have is this matte eye shadow palette from Too Faced. It has a bit of everything: browns, blues, and purples. I pretty much wear these shades all the time!

So there you have it! Hope these outfits gave you some ideas on how to look cute this Easter weekend! Happy Easter everyone! :)

Outfits Inspired by Essie Nail Polish

I think this is officially the most random post I've ever done! I was choosing what colour to paint my nails the other day and I noticed I had a lot of pastel shades, all from the brand Essie. And I thought it would be cool to put together some spring outfits inspired by them, since it's finally spring (well, almost, we are getting there!). Pastel shades never go out of style for spring in my fashion books!

The Polishes

Left to right: Turquoise & Caicos, Mint Candy Apple, Muchi Muchi, and Lilacism

Outfit #1: The Blues

Top: Forever 21; Cardigan: Hudson's Bay; Pants: Smart Set; Necklace: Accessorize

At the end of winter last year, I remember all I wanted was a pair of bright blue pants. It was a big jump for me, since I usually just stick to jeans. But I went for it and I'm so glad I did! These pants are great for spring and summer because they are very lightweight and breathable. Pairing different hues of the same colour is a very chic look, and a simple upgrade to the basic jeans and tee outfit!

Outfit #2: Purple & Mint

Camisole: Garage; Cardigan: Bluenotes; Shorts: Aeropostale; Necklace: Forever 21

I love pairing spring colours together- especially deep purple with mint. And you didn't think I'd do a blog post without something floral, did you? You could definitely substitute the shorts for jeans, especially here in Canada- it won't be warm enough to wear shorts for another two months at least!

Outfit #3: Pink & Lace

Dress: Forever 21; Cardigan: Jacob; Necklace: Forever 21; Belt: Garage

Of course, I save my favourite for last. I bought this dress towards the end of the summer and I can't wait to start wearing it again! As you know, aside from floral, lace is also one of my must-haves. Paired with the cardigan, this look is the most classic of the three. 

And just in case you were wondering, I ended up painting my nails lilac :)

Concert Tee Outfits

I've been meaning to do this post for a while now and since my class was cancelled today I had a little extra time to put together three outfits that I would wear with my concert t-shirt. I went to Bluesfest and saw Fun. last summer, so that's where the t-shirt is from.   

 Cardigan: Old Navy

Jeans: Aeropostale

Bracelets: gift

This first outfit is the typical way I wear my concert t-shirt. My style is definitely girly, so I love the bright pink cardigan for a pop of colour.

Plaid shirt: Urban Planet

Jeans: Aeropostale

Bangles: Forever 21

This is probably what I would wear if I had bought the shirt before going to the concert. You can definitely substitute the jeans for denim shorts and sneakers of your choice for a laid back, festival vibe. 

Jacket: Vero Moda (at Hudson's Bay)

Jeans: Aeropostale

Necklace: This & That Axesoir

This third outfit is a little bit more edgy. What would also work well would be a bunch of gold stacked bracelets or a chain necklace. I bought this jacket in October and was so excited to wear it the next day, but the temperature dropped (of course) and has stayed that way, so believe it or not, I have not even taken off the tags yet! 

Let me know how you style your concert tee! :)

Presentation Outfit

Hey everyone, so last week I had a presentation / debate for my psychology class, and here's what I wore :)

Other than that I think my fashion has been stalling, on account of the never-ending cold weather...

Top: Simons

Blazer: Eclipse

Pants: Dynamite

Bracelet: gift

Also, does anyone know how to upload videos to Blogger? It gives me an error message every time I try. And yes, I'm in the process of creating something new for this blog; if only it would work!

Florals all week

In honour of Valentine's Day I decided to dress girly pretty much all week. Here are two of my outfits (the rest of the week looked pretty similar- you know me and my florals :P)

Top: Garage Clothing

Tank top: Forever 21

Cardigan: Old Navy

Jeans: American Eagle

Bobby pin: Forever 21

Bracelet: Forever 21

Blouse: Zara

Tank top: Urban Behaviour

Cardigan: Urban Behaviour

Jeans: American Eagle

Bracelet: gift

Eyeshadow: Maybelline Expertwear Eyeshadow quad in Designer Chocolates (I only used the rose-coloured shade)

Lipstick: Loreal Colour Riche Lip Balm in Blushing Sequin

100TH POST!!!!

I cannot believe this is my 100th post! Thank you to everyone who has been reading! Even if you discovered this blog today or last week or have been with me since the beginning, I appreciate your support! I am at over 1800 page views!

So this is a little late, but I did have some good outfits last week!

Sweater: Urban Planet

Cardigan: Bluenotes

Jeans: American Eagle

Necklace: Forever 21

Blouse: Bluenotes

Tank top: Urban Behaviour

Cardigan: Aeropostale

Jeans: American Eagle

Necklace: Forever 21

T-shirt: Tommy Hilfiger

Cardigan: Pure by Alfred Sung (Hudson's Bay)

Tank top: Bluenotes

Jeans: American Eagle

Necklace: Urban Behaviour

And now on to my outfit of the night! I went to a party on Saturday hosted by my department's student's association. It was Harry Potter themed, called the Yule Ball of course! I bought my very first LBD, and this is how I styled it!

Dress: Taylor (Hudson's Bay)

Tights: from my mom

Necklace: gift (from This & That Axesoir)

Earrings: gift

Lipstick: Revlon Color Burst Lip Butter in Wild Watermelon

See this dress seems like the classic LBD, but then it has an unexpected lacy design in the back! I actually didn't notice until I tried it on!

Until my next post, stay stylish! :)

Outfits of the Week #2

This past week was a little bit warmer, so I can show you my all-time go-to outfit of skinny jeans, a basic t-shirt, and a cardigan. This coming week is going to be much colder though, so I'll be breaking out my warm sweaters and fleece-lined leggings once again.
I only have a few outfits (my best ones of the week, haha) because this post would be a lot longer if I had photos from every day.



T-shirt: Target
Cardigan: Urban Behaviour
Tank top: Urban Behaviour
Jeans: American Eagle
Necklace: Garage

This is as basic as my outfit gets. When I have no idea whatsoever what to wear, I can always revert back to the jeans-tee-cardigan uniform. I have way too many plain t-shirts and cardigans to count, so the options are endless!

I also added this really pretty jewelled necklace to complete the outfit. I've been into necklaces lately, short, long, gold, silver, you name it. I remember buying this necklace ages ago- it came with another strand that had a key on it, and I didn't like that so I used tiny pliers to remove it (random side note...).

Top: Eddie Bauer (recent!)
Tank top: Garage
Jeans: American Eagle
Bracelet: gift

My next outfit isn't much different; I just substituted the cardigan for a long sleeved top. I got this top for Christmas and I absolutely love it- it's a waffle knit, so it's warmer than a regular shirt.

 

I got a close-up of the lace detailing on the top because it's so pretty! I love lace, as you probably already know. I usually find that thermal tops can look a little pyjama-y, but the lace definitely moves this top out of that zone!

Top: Eclipse (recent!)
Tank Top: Urban Behaviour
Jeans: Tommy Hilfiger
Bracelet: Forever 21 (recent!)

This next outfit is a little bit different than what I would normally wear, but my New Year's Resolutions included wanting to wear more patterns, so that's where this top comes in! I also like to dress up more than usual when I go to teach flute. I'm not a big fan of stripes, but the diagonal ones on this top are much more flattering than plain horizontal.

I have to do a little rant about these jeans though. I thought they were pretty nice the first few times I wore them (I got them in the summer), but now I find them really baggy, but still hard to take off (skinny jeans problems right here...). And then I looked at the tag- they are 99% cotton. So my advice: always buy jeans with a bit of spandex- it makes a difference!

And once again, I had to make the outfit girly with pearls. I was surprised at the quality of this bracelet, considering it was $6.50- it came in a set with two others.

So those are some of the outfits I wore this week! I have so many more ideas for posts, so until my next one, stay stylish!

Outfits of the Week, New Year's Resolutions, and Pinterest

This post just explains a multitude of things, I don't really know how to describe it! :P

First of all, I am now on Pinterest! I have no idea how exactly it works, but I'm pinning things and creating different boards-
http://www.pinterest.com/maria0157/

Next, my New Year's Resolutions. I found a sort of template I guess you could call it, on Lauren Conrad's website: http://laurenconrad.com/blog/post/2014-my-new-years-resolutions-lauren-conrad-goals
A bad habit I'm going to break: putting myself down over everything
A destination I'd like to visit: New York
I'm going to work harder at: being positive
A project I'd like to finish: knitting (well, I'd have to start that project first...)
A class I'd like to take: some sort of fitness class with a lot of cardio would be fun
I'd like to spend more time doing: my blog, playing my flute
A food I want to eat more of: any ideas????
I want to wear more: patterns
I think the hardest thing for me will be to stop putting myself down over things; I tend to do that the most with school and when I teach flute. But it's a new year,so hopefully I will figure out how to make the best of everything :)

Here is my first try at photographing some of my outfits. This past week was really cold, so I had to dress in layers and wear some of my new sweaters to keep warm. Also, the fleece-lined leggings that I recently purchased were such a good buy! They work really well under jeans for an extra layer of warmth. I got mine from Fairweather, but I'm pretty sure stores like Urban Behaviour or Urban Planet would have them as well.

Sweater: Eclipse
Jeans: American Eagle
Necklace: Forever 21
I don't know how long I've had that necklace, but I've never really put an effort into styling it. I had seen a lot of outfits that featured a chunky sweater with a statement necklace, so I was excited to try it out and I was pleased with the outcome :)

Olive shirt: American Eagle
Plaid shirt: Urban Planet
Tank top: Forever 21
Jeans: Tommy Hilfiger
Necklace: Forever 21 (recent!)
This outfit definitely shows how I like to layer. I don't wear plaid that often, but when I do I like to dress it casually, unbuttoned, sleeves rolled up, with some jeans and a long necklace. I call this outfit my "street style look." :P If only it was warm enough to wear a leather jacket on top!

Until my next post, stay stylish!