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How to Get Away with Wearing Pastels, Pleats, and Polka-dots

Published on April 11, 2017April 11, 2017 by PeculiarPorter21 Comments

Hello darling! How is your week going? The heat has finally hit good ole’ Albany and I’m crossing my fingers that it stays around. This week has been in the 70’s! So, yeah, I’m having a very cheerful day. After all, I know you’re tried of seeing this suede jacket. However, my environmental literature teacher keeps telling us all of the negative things about why this beautiful weather is so bad…. oh, well… at least my toes are warm and happy.

I’ve been trying to figure out what my favorite pattern is and I think I’ve decided on polka-dots. It is a hard mix up between stripes and polka-dots, but I feel like polka-dots are a lot more flattering than stripes. What do you think?

Since Easter is coming up this week, I decided to showcase my love for pastels. There is something about this light, airy pallet that just screams “spring weather.” When I put on these pants, I instantly feel like flowers are going to pop out left and right. I do admit, because of my body shape it sometimes is hard to wear light colored pants. Since there is a print on these pants, it breaks up the in-your-face light color. It definitely makes these pants so much more flattering on my somewhat curvy body shape.

Since I was worried about wearing this in-your-face color, I decided to pair these pants with pointed flats. You might have seen them in my last two posts (here and here) but they really do make your legs look so much longer because of the long pointed shape. Plus, how do you go wrong with heather grey accessories?

What do you think about wearing this much of a contrast in an outfit? Is it a fashionable move or should we only wear a super contrasting outfit in the fall? Let me know in the comments down below.

P.S. I’m curious what you think about this super warm weather in April… are you pessimistic like my environmental literature teacher or are you optimistic like me?

As always,

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DIY Blake Lively Jeans

Published on April 4, 2017April 5, 2017 by PeculiarPorter27 Comments

Hello darling! Happy April! I’m so happy it is finally not March (my least favorite month). March just always seems to draaaag on. No worries though, it is finally April and the flowers are hopefully going to start popping out like jack-in-the-boxes.

I’ve been wanting to try and DIY a pair of jeans for the longest time. I always see this epic post from brit.co floating around Pinterest, so I decided to try it out for myself. After hunting high and low for a pair of distressed boyfriend jeans at Marshall’s, I finally found this pair made by Abercrombie Fitch. If you want to find my exact pair you can look high and low for it at Marshall’s or find a similar pair here, here, here, and here.

Since I already had acrylic paint, I decided to use that and paint on my jeans. I started out with a glob of white paint and just splattered it all over the front and back of my jeans. To get a more “painty” look I started just rubbing the faded paint brunch of the pockets and edges of my jeans.

Tip: Make it easier to splatter the paint get a big brush and glob a ton of the paint with the brush tip. Also, it is going to fling back at you so be prepared!

For the tree branch, I decided to use a thin brush to make the branch first. I put one on my left back pocket, bottom left leg, and right upper thigh. To make the flowers, I mixed 4-5 pinks and purples in order to get a colored contrast.

Tip: It is really hard to use a brush for this process (trust me, I tried), so I tried a plethora of Q-tips instead. They really helped blend the different colors together.

After I painted my jeans, I wanted 24 hours for it to dry. Since I used acrylic, I wanted to figure out how I could make sure the paint wouldn’t wash off or flick off when I washed them. This blog recommended that using heat can actually set the paint. So, I really didn’t want to use an iron because I didn’t know if it would ruin it. The blog recommended putting it in the the oven for a very low temperature. So, I did and now my paint is pretty secure.

As for the rest of my outfit, I wanted to keep it really light like my pants. I opted for a white button down from American Eagle and a lace bandeau from Francesca’s (the white is sold in stores). I also wanted to add a little bit of fun with my pointed flats.

Would you ever paint a pair of jeans? My next adventure would be trying to recreate the Ralph Lauren painted Jeans. They look as if an artist kept touching his or her leg because the paint is coated on the thighs in various colors. Also, the rips in the jeans are also strung together with string. Let me know in the comments if you would ever paint a pair of your own jeans!

As always,

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Billie “Jean” is Not My Lover

Published on March 28, 2017March 28, 2017 by PeculiarPorter18 Comments

Hello darling! Okay, so this is post is a little weird because I was hoping all of the snow would have melted by now. I actually took this “shoot” two days before the giant two-foot snow storm. Right now, I’m looking out my window seeing long forecast of rain and still about a solid six inches of snow. No worries, I’m staying positive. After all… rain does bring flowers, right?

I may be a fashion blogger, but I’ve actually never owned a jean jacket until now. Yes, you read that right. Jean jackets aren’t usually up my style ally because I tend to dress more preppy and edgy than causal. I really wanted to spunk up my wardrobe and venture out to new exciting outfits (don’t we all), so I decided to get this jean jacket.

Advice: Look for a jean jacket that hits above your hips so that it is easier to style.

I liked the way this jacket fit because I wanted a jean jacket that would hit just above my hips. I knew I wouldn’t be wearing this jacket with a lot of pants because, lets face it, I mostly wear jeans and jean on jean is not a trend I particularly enjoy. Also, jean jackets look awesome with dresses and skirts for when it is warmer out. For this look, I decided to wear my favorite sateen purple jeans from American Eagle and a baggy, speckled sweater. Since the jean jacket hits higher than the sweater, it definitely creates more of a layered look. Lastly, I threw on a pair of pointed, light-grey flats that instantly elongated my legs.

Obviously, I had to add a little bit of my personality to this adorable jean jacket. I was shopping online on Forever 21’s website and found out that they sell a pin pack that contained a cactus! If you know anything about me you know I’m obsessed with cacti. How couldn’t I be? When I went into the store I looked high and low for the pin package but couldn’t find it anywhere. I was about to leave and… there… it… was! They seem to have stopped selling the pin pack online but if you’re on the hunt for a cute personality pin pack definitely check out my girly runner up purchase.

Do you own a jean jacket? If so what is your go to outfit with it? If you don’t own a jean jacket… would you ever purchase one? Let me know in the comments down below!

As always,

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Recap: Winter Fashion 2016/2017

Published on March 21, 2017 by PeculiarPorter10 Comments

Hello darling! I may be a day late but happy spring! All I need is the 10 inches of snow to melt and I think I’ll be in the spring mood. Now that we’ve finally moved into spring I really wanted to share my outfits from this winter. I mean just in case you missed one that is…

Oh goodness, I feel like this outfit was from ages ago. I posted this in early December for my Renaissance literature class. Fashion Has a Way of Repeating itself after all! Be sure to check out this post if you missed it because I talk about some weird trends that existed way back then… the Kardashians are still following one of the trends…

I had to stay warm with this incredibly adorable penguin sweater. I posted this right before Christmas break. No, literally, I took these photos the day I went home for break. I was certainly In a Holidaze.

Don’t fret, this outfit was definitely posted on a warmer winter day. The weather in Albany is usually -5° on a ‘good’ winter day, but this winter had been a wild one. I shared my 5 reasons why I think leopard should be included in your wardrobe in this post. It is definitely a staple I think everyone needs! Plus, you can carry on my tips into spring. What do you think about bringing cutout shirts into spring? I for one cannot get enough of them!

Ahh, yes had to include a date night ensemble. Out of all my winter outfits, I would definitely say this one is my favorite one. This outfit would be the definition of my “style” I love preppy and girly but I also love throwing on something edgy like these thigh high boots. Check out my tips on how to make a dress warm for date night.

Valentine’s day came and went and I needed to post a plum dress in the mix. I’m obsessed with this fuzzy white vest and I should you exactly how I style it in How to Wear a Fuzzy Vest like a Boss.

Curious how to style a mock turtleneck? Fear no more! I show you how to rock the mock turtleneck trend in this post. On the bright side, you can carry this trend on over to the spring!

This is definitely the preppiest look out o the whole collection. I had to break out this adorable grey sweater and the classic button down. What better way to stay warm that wearing more layers? Check out my Ultimate Style Trick on Staying Warm so you can get a few tips for some of those abnormal chilly, spring days.

I’m not someone who runs late a lot, but I figured I’d do a little shout out to the girls that do. Check out my simple tips and tricks on how you can rock being late like a pro.

What is your favorite look out of my winter collection? Are you excited to tuck away those thick sweaters and throw on something lighter? I’ll be bringing home all my sweaters as soon as Easter break comes around. Let me now what you think in the comments.

As always,

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Relax Candle From Bath and Body Works: Does It Really Work?

Published on March 16, 2017March 16, 2017 by PeculiarPorter11 Comments

Hello darling! How is your day going? Slightly overwhelming? I’ve have a bunch of essays due next week and just finished up a midterm yesterday. So, you could say I’ve been a little stressed… to say the least. I mean what college senior isn’t stressed about the idea of being released into the real world? If you’re a college senior and you’re not stressed… let me know your secret!

I was introduced to the idea of aromatherapy a couple of years ago and finally decided to actually try it out. Honestly, I first thought it was a load of crap the first time I heard it. I literally thought it was a hippy idea and that there was no way it would work. Three years later, I decided to give it a go.

I received an aromatherapy essential oils kit over Christmas. The kit was by Peabody and Paisley and included three different oils designed to help stress, sleep, and headaches. I have an incredibly difficult time falling asleep sometimes. It definitely has to do with always being on my computer of phone… but I’ll never admit it. I decided to try the oil and I felt like it somewhat worked. I was able to fall asleep much quicker than when I didn’t use it. In all honestly, it could be a placebo effect, but I felt like it really worked.

That is when I decided why not try one of those aromatherapy candles Bath and Body Works always sells. Sure enough, the next time I was in Bath and Body Works they had a crazy Christmas sale that had candles for $10 and then I had a coupon so I actually scored this candle for $7.50. What can I say… this girl can shop. There were two different types of Relax candles. One had a minty smell and the other one was this black chamomile smell. For those who don’t know chamomile is a very old herb that has been used since ancient Rome. It has been known to alleviate cold symptoms, promote relaxation and relieve stress, relieve allergies, aid digestion, and many more.

First thing is first. Candles are relaxing overall. They always make me feel more calm. I don’t know if it is because of the soft flicker of light or if it is just the constant smell that makes me want to sink into my pillow. So, I went into this knowing that I was probably going to be relaxed when I tried this candle. With that said, yes, I think this candle does actually “work magic.” The smell of the candle is this sweet smell that makes you feel like you’re sinking into a beanbag chair. I think there has to be at least some kind of connection with smells and feelings because your nose is so close to your brain… at least that is my thought process!

What is your opinion on aromatherapy? Do you think it is a bunch of garbage or do you think there is a science behind the madness? Let me know in the comments down below!

As always,

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An Outfit For the Chronically late

Published on March 14, 2017March 14, 2017 by PeculiarPorter25 Comments

Hello darling! How is your day going? I hope it is a little bit more sunny than this cold, foggy day. We’re currently getting pounded by a foot (possibly more) of snow. The day we did this “photo shoot” the weather was actually 15°…. very different from the 85° weather I experienced in Florida. However, despite how brutally cold it was this day, I’m kind of glad it was this funky, foggy weather because it made these pictures look super spooky.

Some people may pick on good ol’ Albany, but I definitely think it has it’s perks. I mean it doesn’t have as much of my love as Troy does…. but with events like Lark Fest and food like Iron Gate Cafe it is hard not to love Albany.

Now, I’m not going to even try fooling you that I am a “late” person. I’m not. I’m actually that annoying person that shows up 10-15 minutes early to everything… even class. I literally get stressed out if I’m only 5 minutes early. So yes, this post is not geared toward people who are insane like me. But, I know many of the chronically late people are out there. My question to you is: how do you do it? You guys even have this mystical look to you when you come into a class 5 minutes late. I give you props because I would look like a hot mess if I ever did that.

Major key for the chronically late: Throw on a ‘polished’ cardigan on a basic outfit and you’re good to go.

For this “chronically late look” I decided to show off the power of a long cardigan. I feel like anyone can throw on this cozy cardigan and look instantly polished. I mean it certainly did that trick for me. You can even wear this camel cardigan with leggings. Currently, I’m obsessed with Aerie’s chill high-waisted leggings. For everything else, I kept it extremely basic. White tee and black high-waisted pants… could anyone go wrong? To spice up this incredibly basic outfit I decided to add a sparkly woven belt and woven Sperry’s.

What do you normally throw on when you are late? A nice pair of leggings or a comfy cardigan? Let me know in the comments down below!

As always,

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Shift Dress Two Different Ways

Published on March 7, 2017March 14, 2017 by PeculiarPorter21 Comments

Hello darling! I hope your day is filled with sunshine and happiness! Well.. if it’s not hopefully I can throw some sun from this post at you. Two weeks ago, two of my friends and I decided to venture down south to good ole Fort Lauderdale. Our vacation was filled with sunshine, happy hours, and sandy beaches. What better way to spend spring break?

We were caught in the rain one day, which is why I am wearing jeans. Originally, I was going to photograph this outfit with this adorable “tank top” as a dress. I know, wild! This adorable “top” is actually a shift dress from Marshall’s. I absolutely adore this little triangle cut out and the way the straps fit. It is definitely a unique fit paired with this adorable burnt orange floral pattern. I’m obsessed with burnt orange lately I don’t know what is wrong with me! Every time I see it in the store I always want to get it. So when you’re packing for a trip, I highly recommend packing a shift dress and high waisted jeans because it is so easy to transform at outfit if the weather is acting up. It definitely came in handy when I was in Florida!

Shift dresses have definitely become one of my go to pieces because they’re so easy to transform by layering. You can tie a belt, throw a poncho on, throw jeans on, a big sweater… you name it you can do it. I cannot stop buying these adorable dresses because I love wearing the death out of them. Plus, with the right accessories they’re perfect for any body type. What is to not like about them?

My biggest tip? Buy funky patterns and the basic colors. Simple colors, bold colors, and funky patterns. They’re a great way to layer with a basic shirt or sweater. Just make sure that the dress is about two inches longer than you think you want it because if you end up putting a shirt or belt on top of the dress sometimes it ends up making the dress ride up… Something I don’t think anyone wants to happen!

Are you headed anywhere warm this spring or are you trying to book as much snowboarding hours as you can get? Are you obsessed with shift dresses like me? Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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