american eagle

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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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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How to Wear a Fuzzy Vest Like a Boss

Published on February 14, 2017 by PeculiarPorter23 Comments

Hello darlings! I’m not sure about you, but I’ve been lost in the sea of pink this past couple of weeks. My instagram feed is drowning in pinks and reds. I tried my best to spice it up by throwing a plum color into the mix. Okay, so I know it’s still in the same color family but, hey, it is Valentine’s day after all.

I’m a huge fan on vests lately. I think they’re the perfect addition to any outfit because of the add a new kind of detention to the outfit. Also, it feels like you’re being bear hugged all day and who doesn’t love that? This fluffy vest is from Marshall’s- the store that literally knows how to bubble happiness. I particularly like how this one flaps open to show the contrast of suede and fur. You could easily put this vest over a tight dress, but I love it paired with an equally relaxed dress. This plum color dress really makes the cream color pop. This vest would also look great with any color especially army green… maybe even an all white outfit!

As for jewelry I opted for my favorite ring from Bluebird, a small store located in Troy, New York. I literally wear this ring every day… I wish it came in silver because I would be all over that.

I’ve been obsessed with wearing this necklace from The Giving Key. This necklace comes in three different versions that say Dream, Love, and Hope. I wasn’t sure if I should get dream or love. I ended up picking dream but because, as a senior in college, it is very easy to get nervous about the future. I wanted to keep a reminder close to remember that I need to dream about endless opportunities. It is easy to get discouraged, but this necklace is just a little reminder to keep my head up high and dream big. This particular brand is incredibly because not only does it help motivate me but it helps the homeless. The Giving Key purposely hires homeless people in California so that they an help improve their lives. You can check out their mission more here.

Lastly, I decided on incorporating more texture in this outfit. You probably know by now, I adore adding more elements to every outfit. These quirky tights are perfect when paired with over the knee boots. Lace tights are one of my favorite items to add in an outfit because it instantly makes the look so much more flirty and feminine. The tights are very innocent where as the boots are very edgy so it is creates this interesting contrast in any outfit.

What are you rocking for Valentine’s day? Are you mourning the day by wearing black or are you rocking pink? Let me know in the comments down below about your outfit and/or plans for today!

As always,

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The Ultimate Styling Trick to Stay Warm

Published on February 7, 2017February 13, 2017 by PeculiarPorter40 Comments

Hello darling! This past weekend, I went to Chowderfest in Saratoga. It is the magical day where multiple restaurants (85 to be exact) all make chowder. The chowder is $1 for a cup and you feel like you’re melting into a puddle of happiness when you eat it. I ended up getting 8 different chowders. I was so full that I felt as if my friends needed to roll me to the car. Obviously, it was a magical experience.

The day of Chowderfest was pretty cold out and you usually stand outside in the cold waiting for the chowder. So, that got me thinking. How do you stay warm when you’re trying to stay outside in 20° weather? Layer, layer, layer. In this outfit, I have a tank top on, a button down, my sweater, and my jacket. Boy, was I ready to endure the cold. The key to making sure that you don’t look super bulky with this many layers is to make sure they’re different sizes. The tank top that you cannot see is super form fitting so it won’t add that much bulk to this outfit. My striped button down hits just below the sweater making the eye drawn to the little to the extra fabric. Also, it helps when you cuff the sleeves and make sure the collar stands out over the sweater.

When you’re dressing for warm weather, make sure you wear a wool sweater. This sweater will ensure that you stay super toasty. Plus, I love this beading on this J.Crew sweater because makes the look that much more playful.

As for shoes and pants, I wore different ones for Chowederfest. I actually wore these jeans on top of a pair of thick leggings. I then threw on my over the knee boots from this post and was incredibly warm. The extra shoe material on my legs really helped me stay warm.

For gloves, I really love these black leather ones because they are lined with fleece. You can get very similar ones at Marshall’s or T.J.Maxx.

Here are pictures of my favorite chowders from 7 Horse, Sweet Mimi’s, and Graffney’s. Boy, were they delicious!

What are your tricks for staying warm for winter? Do you hide hand warmers in your shoes and gloves? Do you double up on hats or scarves? Let me know in the comments down below. Also, if you have any fun food events that you stay outside for like Chowderfest let me know… I would definitely put that on my list of places to go.

As always,

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P.S. What do you think about Christmas decorations that are still up? These photos were taken two weeks ago and Christmas stuff is still up! Personally, I love it.

How to Style a Mock Turtle Neck Shirt

Published on January 31, 2017February 13, 2017 by PeculiarPorter12 Comments

Hello darling! I’m going to let you in a little secret… when I was really little, I told my mother I would never wear a turtle neck. Hi, Mom! Don’t worry, back then I thought lime green look oh-so-fabulous with metallic gold. So yes, today I break a few rules and hopefully never revert to my old ways. And trust me, I can hear my mother’s voice in my ears bragging, “I told you so.”

This incredibly brilliant mock turtleneck is from the wonderful American Eagle… come to think of it so is my cardigan and jeans. Yes, it is no secret that American Eagle gives me life. You could easily pair this shirt by itself because of it’s rich detailing. However, I wanted to add a little bit more attention to this outfit and throw on a big statement necklace and a speckled cardigan. Bam!

Fun fact: the Porter family used to own two turtles at one point (I’m thinking about this because of the turtleneck sweater). We actually had a few animals growing up now that I think about it… 5 guinea pigs (I had two and then my older brother got jealous so he had to get two. Mine were incredibly fat… think butternut squash and Andrew’s were incredibly small… think small baked potato), 4 dogs, one common goldfish (I won it at a fair and it lived for 7 years), two turtles, one gecko, 2 hamsters, and many koi fish. The animals were spaced out over time but still, that is a significant amount of animals. Do you think that is a lot?

If I wanted to wear this mock turtle neck for Valentine’s day, I would definitely pair it with more daintier jewelry and a maroon/soft pink cardigan. The reason I picked this more in-your-face necklace is because it paired so nicely with the speckled cardigan and black knee high boots. Plus, it really is an interesting combination when the edgy necklace is paired with dainty lace.

Have you ever told your mom you’re never going to wear something when you were little? Who was right? Would you wear a mock turtle neck? Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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P.S. If you ever come to Troy, New York you’ll have to visit the Louis Rubin Memorial Approach. It’s located right next to RPI and you get this amazing view.

72 Holiday Gifts for Her

Published on December 15, 2016December 15, 2016 by PeculiarPorter9 Comments

Hello darling! Are you at a loss for what you might want to give to that certain someone? I put together photo sets from nine different stores that will hopefully give you a few ideas on what to get that certain girl. I hope this gives you at least some kind of inspiration on what to give to that special someone.

American Eagle.

Anything from American Eagle would be a safe gift for anyone because they sell basics with a unique flair. Not only are their pieces unique but they also last forever. You’ll literally give a gift to someone that lasts forever. For example, I still have the same jeans from freshman year of high school because they’re still in perfect condition. If you know someone who typically wears things that have lace or random elements on them I would try looking at American Eagle.

Current promotion: 40% off and free shipping, jeans buy one get one free, $15 pjs, $20 sweaters.

Francesca’s

Francesca’s is definitely the perfect store for the girly girl hostess. They have such a wide arrange of fun nicknacks such as cheerful pillows, fun accessories to throw in your purse, coloring books, and decorative signs. The store offers adorable lacy clothing that is sure to appeal to the girly girl. If you don’t want to gift clothes, I would definitely recommend looking at their jewelry selection and their home gifts selection.

Current promotion: Home & Gifts buy one get one 50% off and Bogo mixer buy one get one 50% off.

Tobi.

The next two stores are definitely stores for the girls who are trying to try out the newest trends. Tobi has a wide range of interesting clothing so if you see on someone’s wish list something like “off the shoulder shirt” or “unique shirts” I would look at this website. I’m literally obsessed with this velvet blazer and I’m sure your style guru will too.

Current promotion: All new products are always 50% off when added but right now they’re 60%. You also get 50% off your first order.

Forever 21

Just like Tobi, Forever 21 is definitely a store to go to for the trend setter. From overalls to statement necklaces you’re sure to find something for everyone here. Brace yourself if you plan on going its the actual store though. It’s like the gym the day after new years… everyone wants a piece of something. My recommendation? Buy everything online and make sure you get a gift receipt because their sizes tend to be pretty interesting.

Current promotion: $20 off when you spend $100 or more. 70% off winter items.

Sephora

Okay, I don’t know what it is about make up but girls go insane about it! It’s something to do with the pretty colors and getting to look a certain way. Anyway, there are tons and tons of kits and tricks you can get from Sephora. One of my top 10 favorite gifts I’ve ever received (#1 is a blanket) is the scent certificate. Okay, before you skip to the next store hear me out. You get a package of 5 different scents to try out and they you get this certificate where you get to buy a full roll on perfume. Since perfume is definitely something you can’t just get anyone, go for this because that way they in a way get a gift but they also get to pick out their present. Kind of a win win. Trust me its not a cop out like a gift card it’s a really cool present.

Current promotion: Check the sale section because some of these packages are on sale.

Bath and Body Works

If you only knew how insane I become when candles are in the mix. Okay, who doesn’t love candles. Okay, lame question I know. But they make any room warm and smelling like happiness. The best part? With some candles you can even get matching lotion, soap, hand sanitizer, and perfume. That may be going overboard but it is definitely an option! My advice is to not buy this online because you don’t know how it actually smells. If you really don’t want to go in person to buy things, I listed some great candles below.

Current promotion: Candles are half off right now ($12.50). Everything else is buy three get three free.

Urban Outfitters

Know someone who is incredibly difficult to shop for and they won’t tell you what they want? Well welcome to Urban Outfitters were everything hipster is right at your disposal. Things range from mirror trays, to sarcastic books, to random wall decor. Going in this store makes you feel like you’re in some type of universe, but their website is incredibly helpful and all sorted out like a charming charlie (only a few of you will understand that comment). When it doubt wander over to their book selection because thats where I go as soon as I enter an Urban Outfitters. If you’re trying to be productive click on their gift tag and you’re all set. There is even a men’s and a women’s section to be even more helpful.

Current promotion: $20 off 100.

AdoreMe

Through all of their social media presence on accounts like Facebook and Instagram, I’m shocked I haven’t heard of this company earlier. I was pleasantly surprised by the adorable sleepwear and active wear sections. My family always exchanges pjs on Christmas Eve and then opens presents in them the next morning. It’s a little tradition that has carried on year after year. AdoreMe’s pjs are perfect for the Christmas morning and opening up presents. They have a variety of different pants and colors that almost replicate Victoria Secret’s but for a more affordable price. You can see the similarity in the black button-down set. Also, I adore that you’re buying a set when purchasing things. For example, you’re getting both the top and at the bottom of each of the sets in the pictures below. But the real reason I added this website on my epic christmas gift list was their unique activewear selection. They have joggers with mesh pockets and leggings with mesh cutouts. They even have matching tops to go with the bottoms! Their activewear selection would be a great Christmas for everyone who loves to work out and look trendy while doing so.

Current promotion: 1 set $24.95 and free shipping!

J.Crew

Trying to buy something for someone who is the definition of preppy? Head over to J.Crew and feast your eyes on all of the beautiful colors. You really cannot go wrong with anything form J.Crew, but you might want a gift receipt because sometimes the sizing is a little bit different on some items. Regardless, gifting any of their items are a great gift. I mean can you really go wrong with two fat otters on a sweater?

Current promotion: 50%-60% off everything online!

I hope this helped! You’re for sure to find a great present for that certain someone. Let me know if it did! Check back tomorrow to see my post about a gift’s that help the world.

As always,

Everyone Has Room in Their Closet for a Paisley Dress

Published on April 19, 2016April 20, 2016 by PeculiarPorterLeave a comment

Hello, darlings! Have you been having a wonderful, warm April? It has been in the 70s all week so I had to break out some of my dresses. This is one of my favorite dresses and I tend to wear it any chance I can. It’s incredibly comfy and it has this funky triangle cut out that I love. Sometimes I don’t wear it with the cut out and I just unbutton the string and tuck them under the shirt.

I’m a slightly obsessed with oversized cardigans. This one, in particular, is my all time favorite because of the rich burgundy color and the random holes on the sleeves. It even has pockets! If This cardigan came in every color every cardigan would be in my closet right now.

The best thing about oversized cardigans is that you can wear them so many different ways. It’s also a great tool if you want to wear a dress or a skirt, but you’re afraid that it may be too short. If you throw on an oversized cardigan then you can easily hide your butt and make sure you’re not revealing too much. It’s a win-win.

Also, how fantastic is this paisley pattern? This is actually the first paisley piece that has entered my wardrobe. If you didn’t already know, purple is one of my favorite colors to wear so I fell in love with this dress right away.

I cannot wait until I’m tan again! I miss sitting out in the sun in the summer and soaking up the rays. Plus, I’m forever grateful for all the dresses I’ve been able to wear lately. Any excuse to wear not wear jeans I’m in.

What is your favorite print to wear? Paisley, polka dots, stripes, floral.. the list goes on and on. Let me know in the comments down below!

As always,