Summer Favorites

Lovelies,

Below are my six favorite summer items:

1. Smith's Minted Rose Lip Balm- As a high school student, I am constantly looking for products that are long-lasting, fuss-free and fun. For months, I have been impressed with this balm's ability to keep my lips chap-free, while serving as a lightweight gloss. The formula of petroleum jelly and rose extract is simple, but works wonders (especially in the winter months). During the summer, I have found that it serves as an excellent on-the-go product. The balm can be used on hands as well. Available at Sephora and Anthropologie, $6.

2. Madewell Friendship Bracelets- These past few months, I have traded my J. Crew costume jewelry for more delicate, wearable pieces. These two bracelets are staples in my wardrobe; I wear them quite frequently, and they go with pretty much everything. Although they are friendship bracelets, aspects such as the gold accents and fun colors classify them as a subtle statement piece, especially if layered. Available at Madewell, $10 each.

3. Moroccon Oil Curl Control Mousse- It is no secret that I have hair that simply can't be tamed. I had never tried a curl mousse before this product, and have been impressed with the results. (You could say it has become a little easier to style my hair). The solution shapes curls while fighting frizz simultaneously. Even for someone with tame hair, this product does provide those "beach waves" that many girls wish to accomplish. Available at Ulta and Moroccan Oil's website, $29.

4. Anthropologie Stretchy Headbands- I recently dubbed these my "hipster headbands". These vibrant elastics are fun accent pieces, and come in varying patterns, colors and textures. Most importantly, they make it a little more enjoyable to wear one's hair in a bun. Available at Anthropologie, $15.

5. Zoya Nail Polish in Maya- I love to wear pinks in the summer, especially on my nails. Zoya polishes are always the best to use, as they are toluene, formaldehyde, DBP and camphor free. Fewer chemicals, happier nails. Available at most nail salons, $7.

6. Almay Skin Balancing Pressed Powder- Although I tried loose powder for a while, I was constantly frustrated with the amount of unused product that seemed to end up all over my bathroom floor (so much anger in the mornings). A pressed powder with balancing components was a wonderful solution. I especially like the design on the powder; very artsy. Available at CVS, $11.

Em

Carry On

Lovelies,

This will be a relatively brief post, as I am  in the middle of studying for my final exams taking place this upcoming week. I'm practically brain-dead from learning about Transduction and integrals of Polar graphs. Yikes.

I shot a few photos last week to highlight this absolutely gorgeous Madewell shirt with embroidered detailing. The fabric, a lightweight and airy cotton material, is perfect for the upcoming Central Valley heat here in California. I especially love this shirt because of its neon accents; the neon melon color you see above seems to be the unofficial color of summer! If you're interested, the shirt is featured in Madewell's online catalogue; you can find that here.

I'm very excited to announce that I will be traveling abroad to Paris, Saint- Émilion and Normandy this summer to visit and (stay with) my dearest friend, Marie! I will be completely immersed in the French culture for two full weeks; this includes speaking French...only French....

I'm worried that I'm going to forget my five years-worth of french courses as soon as I step off the plane. In all honesty, however, I cannot wait to see Marie, spend time in museums AND improve my french simultaneously. It's all a rather good plan. ;)

Good luck with finals, everyone!

-Emily

Details-

Madewell Shirt

Dogeared Necklace

Anthropologie Earrings

Gatsby...What Gatsby?

Lovelies,

I know I previously mentioned my excitement for the upcoming release of the Great Gatsby in my Summer Playlist, but I still felt the need to dedicate an entire post to my Gatsby obsession in order to give it the amount of attention it deserves.

I first read The Great Gatsby this past summer. Although it took me a while to get past the complexity of Fitzgerald's sentence structure and flowery descriptions, the plot consumed my interest; it wasn't long until it became my favorite novel. Although I don't consider myself a romantic, there is something undoubtably charming about Gatsby's sense of determination to capture Daisy's heart again; add in the Jazz Age and New York City, and you have, arguably, one of the greatest pieces of American literature.

Gatsby has gotten more than its share of press over the past few months. The latest Vogue, pictured above, features Carey Mulligan and discusses the so-called "Gatsby phenomenon" sweeping the nation. Meanwhile, companies such as Tiffany and Co. and Brooks Brothers have launched limited collections inspired by the upcoming film. Tiffany's launch party, held at Rockefeller Center in New York, featured acrobatic acts and elaborate displays. Bill Cunningham was there to photograph the event, of course. ;)

One thing is for sure - A Gatsby craze is upon us.

My only concern about this film is Director Baz Lurhmann's desire to "modernize" the plot, in turn eliminating some of the authenticity. I'd like to think that the star-studded cast, amazing soundtrack and Lurhman's over-the-top opulence will dazzle. However, I can't be sure.

I know that my dress isn't exactly reminiscent of the Jazz Age, but the draw-string waist and print almost emulates the avant-garde styles worn by the flappers, and Daisy Buchanans alike, during the 20's. ;) I adore this dress due to its simplicity, comfort, and pop of color. I accessorized with dainty, classic pieces such as the Anthropologie flower posts and Madewell friendship bracelet.

Notes on the Outfit-

Tulle Shift Dress

Ray-Ban Wayfarers

Anthropologie Earrings

Dogeared Necklace

Madewell Friendship Bracelet

Franco Sarto Sandals

XOXO,

Em