blogger

The Fall of Instagram?

Published on April 25, 2017 by PeculiarPorter4 Comments

Hey darlings! A little bit different a post than normal. I wanted to open up a little bit of a discussion to see what you guys are thinking about this new Instagram change.

I’m not sure if you’ve noticed but for the past few weeks Instagram has been changing slowly. It seems as if every time I scroll on Instagram I’m seeing more and more advertisements and less content that I actually want to see.

I intern for Aubrey at The Coastal Confidence and she was explaining to me that since Instagram is owned by Facebook, that they’re trying to make the app more sponsor based. That means we’ll see more people promoting their pictures in order for them to be seen and less of your friend’s content.

My opinion…

To me, it has been very frustrating seeing this big change. Instagram is something that has always been more of an intimate experience than other social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. I’m someone who does follow a significant amount of well-known bloggers, but I really enjoy seeing my friend’s content as well as less known bloggers. When I log onto Instagram now, it seems to be more of just the well-known bloggers instead of my friend’s and less known bloggers. I almost am getting to the point where I need to go through an insta-purge and really see who’s content I still enjoy.

However, one thing that makes me not stray far from Instagram is the newly added InstaStories. This addition seems like a more artsy version of snapchat. Plus, I find it really amusing seeing what some of my favorite bloggers are doing in the weekend. It’s a great way to hear their voices and see the way they react to things. Plus, I adore when they do big hauls. It’s something that I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to do on Instagram but if this app stays relevant we’ll never know!

What do you think?

Have you noticed this Instagram change? Does it make you want to rethink who you’re actually following? Do you think there will be a new groundbreaking social media app? Let me know in the comments down below. I’d love to hear your opinions about this.

As always,

Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook

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,

Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook

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,

Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook

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,

Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook

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,

Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook

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,

Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook

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.

5 Reasons Why You Need Leopard in Your Closet

Published on January 25, 2017February 13, 2017 by PeculiarPorter19 Comments

Hello darling! Do you ever find an item and you’re just like “oh my god, I need this in every color!” That is literally me when it comes to comfy teeshirts. I’ve been obsessed with the soft and sexy tee shirts from American Eagle. I thought I would never find a shirt that was similar to it’s relax and comfy fit. Boy, was I wrong! I found this adorable shirt form Marshall’s for an insanely affordable price (possibly in the $12-$15 range). I’m not one to show my shoulders in this particular way, but for some reason I really liked the way the shoulder cutouts fit. If you want a similar relax fit I’d check out your local Marshall’s. I warn you though… if you’re anything like me you’ll end up leaving Marshall’s with a jump rope, a dainty jar, or dog biscuits for the dog you don’t have. It’s the only store where I’m like oh my god, yes, I need it all. Please don’t even get me started with their home decor section…

So, yes, this post isn’t titled “my fantastic shirt from Marshall’s” but was titled about the delicious wonder that is associated with leopard print. Now, leopard print may seem like an incredible hard pattern/element to incorporate into an outfit but, trust me, it is as simple as jumping jacks.

Leopard print can…

Spice up any wardrobe simply by adding it.
Create an additional texture to your outfit which creates a unique look.
Used as a neutral so it looks interesting paired with other patterns or loud colors.
Let you make your all black or all white outfits incredible.
Make your out look effortlessly chic.

Now how do wear leopard? Literally, you just put it on and BAM you’re incredible. Treat it as a neutral and you’ll look like a star. But if you’re shy and you want to try a less risky way, look at this outfit for inspiration. You can use neutrals and dainty jewelry to really amplify the magical power of the leopard print. If you want a more daring look, trade in my blue jeans for some bright red pants. Trust me, you’ll be sure to turn a few heads.

But when it comes to fashion trends you don’t have to love them all. As one of my favorite fashion icons, Iris Apfel, once said, “I don’t dress to be stared at. I dressed for myself.” So if you’re not 100% happy with what you’re wearing don’t force yourself! Be happy being you, after all… fashion is about self expression so if yo undo’t love what you’re wearing what is the point?

What do you think about leopard print? This pattern has been in style for as long as time. Do you think it will ever go out of fashion? How do you style leopard if you do like it? Let me know in the comments and if you have a post wearing leopard print put your link down! I’m dying to see how other people style this epic pattern.

As always,

Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook