Paper Doll Vintage Boutique

I've talked about my favorite local vintage shop...a lot.  As a history major/fashionista I absolutely love vintage fashion from previous eras; one of my favorites is the 40s and 50s. 

A year of two ago my younger sister introduced me to Paper Doll Vintage Boutique, a little vintage shop on Main St., in Sayville, Long Island. 

Now, Rachel and I go at least once a month (sometimes we'll go two or three times!).  We actually go so often, and I'm forever tagging or posting about the shop, that they recognize me from my Insta posts (insert blushing emoji and fangirl squeal of excitement, here haha) when I walk into the store!

I think the reason why we go back (and so often!) is because it's such a fun and inviting place to be!  The staff there, especially owner, Dominique, are so sweet to everyone that walks in; and they're so passionate and knowledgeable about their products and vintage fashion in general. 

They have everything; both vintage and vintage inspired!  Hats, bags, clothes, shoes; you name it, they've got it!  I'm addicted to their sunnies, and I just picked up the cutest turban (totally the new beanie); I plan to go back to get more of each!

So, I think a post, sharing this treasure is overdue!

I LOVED this gingham romper, but alas, it was not meant to be (AKA, my butt was too big for it, haha).  Even though it didn't really fit right, I felt like a pin up star in it!  I'm definitely keeping my eye out for another (slightly bigger) one to put away for next summer!

Peace!  I'm not really sure if I can rock these round sunnies, but they're bubblegum pink and I think I'd wear them anyways--they're too fun not to wear!

I've gotten quite a few things from the shop over the past few months that I absolutely adore.  I've also tried on a few things as well, that I loved, but couldn't justify buying because I had nowhere to wear them (*sigh* broke girl problems), but I had a ton of fun trying them on and daydreaming regardless!

1. Tortoise shell cat eye glasses

Like my pin-up wannabe pose? haha :D

2. Black cat eye sunnies

If you follow me on Insta (here!), then you know how much I love these sunnies.  They've been my summer staple, and I wear them everywhere!  I like their plain black matte color, because it's classic, and the shape is just to die for.  As a devoted winged-liner girl (going on ten years!), I also love a good cat eye.

pic from this post here; also feat. in this post here, here, here, here, annnnd here...so far!

3. White Heart shaped sunnies (sadly, broken)

pic from this post!

4. Kate Spade Blazer!  I haven't seen too many blazers in this gorgeous green color, and the shape is awesome; the asymmetrical collar, and the longer length...I'm in love.

pic from this post here, and also feat. here!

5. Straw hat with black ribbon, A.K.A. Madeline's hat, plus a ton of other vintage hats that I wish I had somewhere to wear!

This straw hat in particular has been one of my favorite pieces I've seen at the shop!  It reminded me of vintage French fashion...which I guess is why I refer to it as the Madeline hat.  The little bow in the back is just darling, and the simple shape of the hat and it's straw material, makes the hat great for summer/spring...or a great vacation hat (a vacation to France!!!).

6. Swan print skirts and petticoats!

7. Peep that chandelier action!  The whole shop is so beautifully decorated; filled with art from local artists, a gorgeous chandelier, and racks and displays filled with vintage treasures!

So if you're ever on the Island (Long Island, for all you out-of-staters!  lol), make some time to stop by!  And if you're too far to make a trip, check out their site (and their Etsy shop!)!  :)

Do you have a favorite local shop that you can't get enough of? :)

From Happy Hour to 9-5 Chic

Today I took an oldie-but-goodie, faux-leather "going out" top and totally turned it into office chic!

I got this peplum a long time ago (okay, less than six years ago), when I was in college, and from then on it was pretty much only for going out.  But now that I'm out of college, and I'm still trying to figure out what I want to do, and money's tight, I've started to get creative with how I style my clothes and accessories so that I can stretch the wardrobe I have and cut back on buying so many new things.

I paired the peplum with a pair of Old Navy pixie pants (they're extremely comfortable, and totally office worthy; I also own about five pairs, haha) that I've easily worn double what I paid for them, and a plain white button up.  I've come to love layering this simple button up (funny story, this was a hand me down from my little sister--so, hand me up?--but my chest is much bigger than hers, so I can't wear it by itself, so I've taken to layering it with everything!  Check out this Insta, where I layered it with my J. Crew scallop dress--perfect for fall!)

I LOVE my ombré, and this winter, I'm sticking with it... but going in a totally different direction color wise (this gray ombre or this icy blue ombre)!

And the half bun-half down look is easily one of my favorite 'do's.  Depending on how you style your hair (or don't, like I did today #teamnatural), can make your half bun look casual or chic!  Total game changer (and it only takes a few seconds to throw up!).

Berry lips are my favorite for fall (and winter), and I'm in love with this Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain in 'Parisian Passion" (what a name!).  It goes on super easy and doesn't dry out your lips at all; and the color is a bold and rich, jewel tone.

Cecil gold watch, c/o Fossil

But it's still summer, and one of my favorite summer shades is Essie's 'Butler Please'.  It's the epitome of summertime, and looks like a beautiful ocean blue that makes me wanna go hang out on a beach all day!  And these little Ciatè pearls totally step up my already awesome (and DIY'ed--pat pat on the back, lol) mani.

These metallic oxfords from J. Crew (an awesome find from a few months ago), are an awesome nod to the past, but still look fresh and not stuffy.

What do you guys think of making your night pieces, office-ready?  :)

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Travel Style: Camo + Sailor Stripes

...plus a 90s throw back: Spice Girls buns!  When I travel I like to keep my hair out of my face (one less thing to worry about if I'm not fiddling with my hair!); so I usually stick to buns or braids--chic and easy.  Especially when I'm driving long distance, like I did this weekend, I hate it when my hair gets in my face (I have long, crazy hair with a mind of it's own).

Just a side note, I'm not pregnant, my shirt is just baggy, lol.

Can I just say I love my car (it's a 2015 Chevy Equinox...in champagne!); it's perfect for road trips!  It's super spacious, with lots of room for luggage (and I always travel with a lot of it; I haven't quite gotten acquainted with "packing lightly", haha) and friends...and more luggage (because a girl needs options!)!

This Vera Bradley duffle is an oldie, but a goodie.  I got it as a Christmas gift a few years ago while I was still in college.  It's perfect on short trips and I can fit a TON of stuff in it (the zipper is basically magic, because no matter how much I stuff in there, it always seems to be able to close!)!.

And this palm print Old Navy tote (sadly, sold out, but I did post some similarly inspired bags down at the bottom!)?  I use it for everything!  Trips to the beach, my gym bag, and when I go on trips it holds my toiletries and shoes (I like to have lots of options, lol).

My favorite travel outfits are loose, but still have some structure to them; this makes them both comfortable and stylish.  This nautical striped top and joggers are perfect; the patterns provide interest, and everything looks put together but isn't stuffy and uncomfortable (the worst things that your outfit could be when traveling--especially on a long car ride).

Upstate New York is ridiculously gorgeous!  Nature is everywhere and it's all beautiful.  Leaving Long Island and heading upstate for a couple of days is just the refreshing getaway that I needed (I've been feeling tired and in a slump for a couple of weeks now).

#selfie.  I snuck this one in while Richie was still out of the car, before we left for our hike...  No matter what anyone says, you can never have too many selfies!  Plus, I love these aviators (another Old Navy find!), which I think are the perfect sunnies for any adventure!  And check out my ombré; on point!  ;)

Yes, I make Richie take selfies with me (and there are a million more of just me when he refuses to get in the picture, lol).  I took a really cool, little video selfie, but it was one second short of the three second minimum to post it to Insta (not cool, Instagram, not cool; insert sad, teary emoji face here).  But this one is just as cute.  :)

I'm not gonna lie, the hike was much harder than I thought.  I was sweaty and achy...and cranky.  I have a weird love/hate relationship with heights: I'm totally okay with them and love them when I'm strapped into something, but the trail wasn't a typical, well-wen dirt path, there was lots on climbing, and narrow pathways, and drops off the sides; in short, I was a giant weenie during most of it.  I wish I would've just taken a deep breath and enjoyed it more, because it was truly beautiful; but I was so worried of slipping, and falling off the path and breaking something, that I let my anxiety take over, and it sort of ruined some of the adventure.  Luckily, Richie was a really good sport about it all.

When we finally got to the waterfall, it was all definitely worth it.  Pictures don't do this place justice.

I had to stick my hands under the waterfall.  It was just so, so hot on Saturday; especially since this was the end of the hike, and then you had to turn back to hike back down (so, I guess it was really the middle of the hike, haha).

When my sister (and blogger photographer), Rachel, isn't around, that means it's up to Richie to snap some shots for me--whether he likes it or not...and he doesn't, lol.  During our hike I wanted to get in a quick outfit pic, with this amazing backdrop.  His response, "Not everything is a fashion show!".  

He's lucky he's cute.

After the long hike, Richie took me to a nearby watering hole that people go to after a long hike.

Jumping off this ledge into the watering hole was so much fun (and my goodness, so refreshing too!)!  Even though I love adventure, and crazy roller coasters, heights anywhere else, kind of freak me out (like I said, love/hate relationship); it was a little scary to stand on that ledge, getting ready to jump into waters that I didn't know how deep they went, but I'm super glad I did!  Richie and I were the only people jumping from the highest ledge, and it gave me a pretty good confidence boost (and it totally cooled me off from our hike!)!

*Check out one of my other upstate adventures, here, where Richie and I went underground at Howe Caverns! *

The next day, we just took it easy: sleeping in late and then, hitting the Crossgates Mall for some date night fun (they have everything there!)!

Ever since I went to Dave and Busters a couple of months ago, I've been hooked (is that dorky? lol #sorrynotsorry)!  So Sunday night  we went for date night; it's easy, fun and has everything in one place (food, drinks, and entertainment)!  Plus, I'm super competitive (with pretty much anything, especially Monopoly...), and I love winning tickets; I don't know what it is, and Richie finds it hysterical that I get so amped when I win (hitting jackpot is the best feeling in the world, haha).

As you can see, I'm super sad that Dave and Busters went electronic with their tickets. One of my favorite parts is when all the tickets comes shooting out of the game (especially when you hit jackpot!!!).

 I hope ya'll had a fun weekend like I did!

What's your favorite way to travel in style? :)

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Easy Peasy Retro Scarf Hair Style

If you're like me, styling your hair all by yourself is a challenge.  Anything I've accomplished hair styling-wise is the result of lots and lots of practice (for example, it took me the longest time to learn how to curl my own hair, I used this youtube video, by my friend, and awesome hair stylist, Sam!  Seriously, if you're not so hair savvy, this video will be a major help; I can now proudly boast beautiful 10-minute curls!).

Now retro hair styles are a whole 'nother ball game.  I've tried quite a few times to recreate those glamorous victory rolls that my favorite pin-up IG'ers rock, and let me tell you, they must be using magic, because I can't for the life of me figure out how to get it done.

But fear not!  I've found a super simple way to add some retro flair to your 'do without wanting to pull out your hair.  The easy peasy solution?  A vintage scarf.  You can find one of these at any vintage/thrift store for under $10.  You can even use a bandana!  And those you can find at a craft store for about $1.

This look is perfect for summer.  It keeps the hair out of your face, and looks like you put a lot of thought into your hair (when we both know, it only took a minute or two!).

Here's what to do:
1.  From top to bottom (aka, one point to another), fold your scarf.

2.  Fold the point at the top to the edge of the bottom.

3.  Repeat step #2 at least once or twice more (or even three times!), depending on how thick or skinny you want the band to be.

4. Tie the scarf around your head, with the knot and scarf tails (ends?  What do you even call them? haha) at the nape of your neck (but I usually push mine to one side and let the "tails" hang over one shoulder). 

5.  Use bobby pins to keep the scarf in place (especially if you're using a silky scarf; they get a little slippery and slide off if they're not held into place). I usually do two bobby pins on the top sides of my head and two on the back side. 

6. Voila!  A super easy way to add a little vintage touch to your outfit! :)

So breathe easy friends!  It doesn't get any easier (or cuter!) than this!  :)

P.S.  These cat eye sunnies, from Paper Doll Vintage Boutique, (which I talked about here), add an extra touch of retro glam!

Sick Day Adventures

This weekend I just had to get out of bed and get some fresh air.  Nothing's better when you're sick than some fresh air...and a bit of shopping (Old Navy has the best clearance and sales).

Here's what I found in store that's also available online:

Sleeveless Embellished Top (I got mine in 'flaming tulip')

I love the color and detail in this top!  It's bright, and the fabric is nice and light, which is perfect for layering in spring, and for the hot weather in summer.

Terry-Fleece Joggers

Bless the person who made joggers chic enough to dress up and wear anywhere (like errands or to work)--seriously, high fives, y'all deserve an award.  And who gets an award for rocking joggers so effortlessly and totally deserving of style envy?  Emma Watson.  Check out my post, here, to see how she styled her joggers (and for the broke girl's look alikes).

The clearance racks always, always have hidden gems.  Anywhere.  Whenever I go shopping I make a beeline for the sales section.  At Old Navy, for example, I got pants and dresses that normally go for around $30-$45 for only $10 a piece!  So, don't ignore the clearance section, because you definitely don't know what you'll find (same can be applied to thrifting, but that's for another post)!

While I was Old Navy, I finally found a pair of aviators that actually flatter my face!  I can't even tell you how many pairs I've tried on (the limit does not exist...because it's really been that many).  Usually they're awkwardly too small, or the shape is just weird and doesn't work with the shape of my head.

Unfortunately, Old Navy doesn't have as wide of a sunnies selection online as they do in store (*frowny face* here).  But, you can find similar ones at Forever21, here.  If aviators aren't your thing, check out my post, here, that has my different picks for summer sunnies!

Our other stop, was Trader Joe's.  Now if you don't know what that is, it's like a Whole Foods, but on a smaller scale.  They have all sorts of tasty treats there (I love the mochi ice cream bites and the mushroom truffle raviolis!).  I've only been one other time before, so I liked just seeing all the different foods they have (I love to eat, so this little outing was perfect!).

Obligatory blogger with pineapple post!

If you have a Trader Joe's nearby, go pick up the Watermelon Cucumber Cooler.  It's amazing!  It's not overly sweet and tart, it's just right.  You could drink it as is, or use as a mixer for the perfect summer drink!

And if you head over to Trader Joe's website, they even have a variety of recipes!

Fried Raviolis with Creamy Marinara (I could eat fried raviolis all day)

Leek and Bacon Egg Tottins (these look like the perfect brunch food!)

Gnocchi with Bacon & Brussel Sprouts (I love all three of these things!)

Dairy Free Maple Bacon Cheesecake (Salty and sweet?  Yes please!)

Later in the day, I also tried my hand at a fishtail braid...and then my arms got tired lol. Not too bad for a first time (plus, I can just pass it off as a messy braid look!).

I used this easy tutorial, inspired by Blake Lively's Age of Adaline movie, here, on Pinterest!  I honestly didn't think that fishtail braids were this easy, but I can proudly say I now know how to do one!

Sunday was very relaxed.
I stopped by Target, just to get out and move around a little.

I use the shopkick app, which is awesome!  You earn 'kicks' by scanning certain items (kind of like a scavenger hunt), and when you've earned enough kicks you can turn them into gift cards.  I shop at Target a lot, so I turn my kicks into Target gift cards.  Today I earned enough for a $10 gift card.  I found the best two toned flats on sale for $14.98, and then used the gift card.  So I only spent $4.98 on these super cute shoes that normally are $30!

Sam & Libby Heidi Two Piece flats $23

I would definitely download the shopkick app and give it a shot!  It only takes a few seconds, and you earn kicks while you're out doing your errands or shopping at the mall, so why not earn towards some gift cards?!  Use my link to sign up (it's compatible with Apple or Android, so everyone wins!): http://get.shopkick.com/line42278.

Oh, and how cute is this Kate Spade Maise look-alike (and at $27, it's over $200 cheaper!)?! Get it online, here!

How was everyone else's weekend?!