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What to Wear to a Summer Barn Wedding

Published on August 15, 2017August 15, 2017 by PeculiarPorter4 Comments

Hello darling! This past weekend my cousin, Sarah, got married. It was a wedding straight out of a fairytale. Everything was done perfectly including the live band, flowers, food, and out of control dancing. My family busted more moves than one and moved in directions I didn’t even know existed. As my mom says, we really did ‘bust a rug.’

I’ve only been two other weddings, one where I was a flower girl and one where I was a guest. So, you may say I’m a wedding amateur. As a result of this, my outfit tips are from the experience I had at this Virginia barn wedding and hot days in general.

Tip: Pick a material or silhouette that can breathe.

Whatever you do… do not wear cotton. Cotton holds in heat and will be sure to make you a hot, sweaty mess. I purposely decided to wear this dress because of how the bottom of the skirt moved. If this was a tighter dress 1. I wouldn’t be able to eat as much as I wanted later on and 2. I would be a sweat monster. Thus, when looking for a dress make sure either the material itself can breathe or the style of the dress is breatheable. By the way, this dress is on super sale right now for $15.

Tip one: Pick a light color so that if you do sweat no one can tell.

So it’s probably going to be inevitable that you’re going to sweat on a hot day in August. So, do yourself a huge favor and buy a light colored dress (not white!) so no one can tell. Regardless of this dress being breatheable, I was still sweating. So, aim for a light color with a pattern on it so it is even less noticeable. Black and navy are also a great options to hide sweat marks but it will make you hotter due to the dark hue.

Tip: For a purse, carry something small but not too small. You don’t want to lug around a huge tote bag, but you also want to make sure you can carry around the essentials.

I actually purchased this envelope clutch the day of the wedding at an outlet directly across our hotel. The clutch was originally $122 (yikes!) and I purchased it for $35. I couldn’t find a link for this clutch online so if you want it (and you want to put a ring on it) hop on over to an outlet near you. It comes in black too!

Don’t forget to pack the essentials: sunglasses, chapsticks, small change, wedding card, and cell phone.

This one is important…

Tip: Take as many pictures as you can with your family and friends.

It isn’t very often that I get to see my whole family at once, so when we do get to see each other we try to make the most of it. One of my brother’s lives in Arkansas and another lives in New York. Now that I’m living back in Connecticut, it isn’t very often that I see my brothers. Make the most of the wedding by taking pictures, dancing up a storm, and celebrating the loved ones getting married. You’ll want to remember everything by these wonderful pictures. P.S. Don’t forget to use the wedding’s hashtag!

Virginia Summer Barn Wedding

But really, how beautiful was this wedding location? They had it down to a science from the band to the ceremony. So here is to Sarah and Justin for moving onto their next chapter. I couldn’t be happier for them.

Do you have any tips for attending a hot wedding? I’ll be attending two weddings next summer so I’ll definitely need a few tips for next year. Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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What to Wear to a Horse Race

Published on August 8, 2017 by PeculiarPorter6 Comments

Hello darling! This past weekend, my college hosted a 100 days post graduation event at the Saratoga Race Track. I know it sounds insanely early, but our class needed it. It was so refreshing hearing how well people are already doing and how eager they are to take on life.

For those who have never been to a horse race, it is quite an experience. The pure joy people get just by placing bets as low as $1 is phenomenal. If you’re like one of my friends you may win $80-$300 in a day or if you’re like me you’ll win $5. Regardless how much you win, it’s a blast.

My first time going was last year and I was thrilled that I was able to go again. This time I didn’t wear a floppy hat but instead a cute dress from Loft and this fun little necklace from J.Crew. (The necklace is on sale online for $24.55, but I purchased it for $14.99. Check the outlet store for a cheaper price).

What to bring: sunscreen, sunglasses, alcohol (no glass bottles are allowed), water, chair, and lunch.

You’re going to be out in the sun so make sure you hydrate and keep your skin protected! Alcohol is allowed to be brought in coolers but glass is prohibited. Most people go to the track very early and claim a table or area with chairs/table clothes. If you want a good spot, get there very early and bring a few chairs. You’ll thank yourself later in the day.

Tip: Go for lighter colors because it will keep you cool. Add a bright color accessory if you think your outfit is too dull.

I made the mistake of wearing a navy dress last year and was seriously regretting it. I was incredibly happy in this light colored dress. Plus, I was able to wear my fun new necklace! Rob kept telling me that it looked like a fishing lure… oh well, I like it!

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes.

There is a solid 50% girls who wear wedges/heels and another 50% who wear flats/sandals. I definitely recommend going for the comfier option because you’ll be on your feet most of they day placing bets or watching the actual race. The shoes I’m wearing might be super weird looking but oh-my-god nothing is comfier than these sandals. I talked about them two years ago and still am madly in love with them.

Tip: Wear something that is lightweight and you can easily move in.

Luckily for me, this adorable dress has a little peep hole in the back of the dress. The fun dress, romper, or skirt might be a great idea at the time but if you’re constantly pulling it down or having to readjust it you’re going to have a bad time at the track. Plus, don’t you want to focus that time on actually winning some mulah? Go for the option that you’re comfiest in.

Tip: Saratoga hotels are super expensive. Try staying in a neighboring city.

We actually bought our hotel super late so we weren’t able to get a hotel closer to Saratoga. I would recommend Malta or Ballston Spa. We ended up staying in the Hilton in Albany. We really enjoyed it mainly because we were able to eat brunch at Iron Gate. The Uber ride is about $47 to Saratoga, but we actually lucked out with one of our friends driving there. Definitely not that bad considering you’d save $100-$300 by staying further away.

Have you ever been to the track? Do you have any betting tricks up your sleeve? Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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Goodbye Bad Vibes and Hello Good Vibes (OOTD and Update)

Published on July 27, 2017July 27, 2017 by PeculiarPorter19 Comments

Hello darling! Getting all dressed up to meet powerful, dedicated people who are in positions you either admire or hope to one day be in can be scary. I mean, what do you even wear? I can’t even tell you how many different outfits I tried on for Her Conference before I decided to go for, yes, the first dress I tried on (on sale right now). Don’t you hate when that happens?

Her Conference was a blast. Wait cross that out… Her Conference was inspirational. It was a breath of fresh air, in a weird invasive way, hearing that all these incredible role models struggled finding their path. All of the different courses they took to end where they are now spoke so much to me. Bottom line being: everyone struggles but eventually you’ll find your footing.

Hearing that is something that needs to be shouted from roof tops and heard past the mountains. Today, in society, we often see how put together everyone is. May it be through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or even these blogs, it just seems like everyone has found the button that says “make life great and easy” while some of us are stuck in a wad of gum. Thats why it is so important hearing the “before” story and sometimes even the “during” story. The only problem is most people don’t want to talk about all the little hiccups they’ve had on the way. The thing is, those little hiccups make you who you are. The time you got rejected from that dream job, that time you spilt coffee all over your proposal, or even the time you decided to step back because you just simply had too much on your plate. You may call these minuscule things setbacks or failures but they’re not. They make you who you are, and you are a remarkable person.

With that in mind, I’m trying to discontinue negative influences in my life and start bringing in more positive vibes. Whether that be unfollowing anyone on Instagram who seems as if they are adding a negative vibe to my life or adding people who may share body positivity, motivation, or just simply laughter to my life. I firmly believe that the people who you are drawn to and become friends with explain who you are as an individual. When you see a friend who is maybe nice to you but mean to others, step back and think to yourself if you would do the same. If you wouldn’t, maybe it is time to say goodbye to that person. If you incorporate positive people in your life and you will have a positive life.

Now, I hope that wasn’t too “deep” or whatever. My blog tends to be light and fluffy sometimes but now that I’m an ‘adult’ *cough* *cough* not really *cough*, I thought I would share my vast 22-year-old wisdom. But, no really, I would love to know your thoughts on this and/or any personal experiences you’ve had with incorporating more positive influences in your life. I would love some advice so leave a comment down below.

As always,

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How to Make a Crop Top Appropriate

Published on July 18, 2017 by PeculiarPorter19 Comments

Hello darling! How is your day going? This week has already been a nightmare for my hair. With the mix of the hot temperature and humanity, it looks like I’ve come out of a zombie movie. Pony tail season it is!

These pictures were actually taken in the spring time, so I wasn’t dealing with this grotesque weather. Though, these tips still apply during these hot, hot days. So let’s get to it!

A crop top used to be this mythical piece of clothing to me. You mean people really spend full price for half the shirt? Wild. People really walk around with their stomachs just hanging out? Wowza. So, if you’ve ever thought these two questions to yourself you’re probably in the same boat as me. Though, I do admit, senior year of high school and freshman year of college I did have a slight crop top faze (if you can even call it that… I owned three crop tops). My style has long adapted into a little bit more of a “classier” look… says-that-while-taking-pictures-in-cheetah-print. Hmm.. okay, well I admit wearing a crop top and cheetah print can be rather…. bold, but it can (and will) work for you.

If you’re uneasy about trying out a crop top, try a lighter color.

Picking out a lighter color is not only easier to pair with other items, but it also tones down the boldness of the crop top. If this crop top was a hot pink instead of the light blue, the vibe of this outfit would be totally different. It’s more about the harmony you’re putting into the outfit. If you’re more comfortable with yourself and wearing crop tops, then by all means wear the boldest one you can find!

As always, layering is your best friend!

Personally, I don’t like having my stomach completely out when wearing crop tops. The illusion that I’m wearing a crop top is enough for me. As a result of this, I love layering crop tops over high waisted skirts or dresses. The tie on this crop top makes it look as if I tied a normal shirt up which is why I think it adds so much to the outfit. Finding crop tops that have a little bit of flare like this one can do so much to your outfit.

If you’re paring the crop top with a wild print like this tone it down with neutral accessories.

This outfit could definitely get crazy in a matter of seconds. By pulling out the black in the cheetah print through my shoes, jacket, and even necklace I was able to keep symmetry in my outfit. If I threw on a purple necklace or anything that had color it wouldn’t have fit together as much as the black and white necklace. When wearing such a bold print, make sure to wear piece that compliments the print instead of taking away from it.

Lastly, if you decide to wear a crop top to work or school make sure that enough skin is covered.

Wear an oversized cardigan, longer skirt/dress, or a big jacket to make sure that the crop top is appropriate. I know some jobs and schools are more lenient and might allow midriffs to show. Personally, I don’t feel like that is appropriate for the school/work environment. So having crop tops over a higher garment adds the fun and sass while keeping it classy.

Now I admit, wearing cheetah print and a crop top may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but my favorite part about fashion is that you get to experiment with different styles. Hopefully I gave you a little bit of an idea on how to ease yourself into one of these styles.

Let me know in the comments down below what you think of crop tops and cheetah print. I’d love to know your opinion!

As always,

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Photo Credit

Lavender By the Bay- Long Island

Published on July 5, 2017 by PeculiarPorter17 Comments

Hello darling! Was your Fourth of July full of spark and fizz? Something about the parade of red, white, and blue fills up the cheerful patriot in me. I spent this past weekend like a true American in good ole’ Long Island. If you follow me on my Instagram you probably already caught a glimpse on my weekend where I fished in the bay and in the ocean, ate delicious food, and learned how to shuck an oyster thanks to Robert/Finest Tide Oysters.

Part of this weekend was spent exploring the beautiful Lavender by the Bay field located in East Marion, New York. I’ve passed this little site for quite some time on my way to and from the Orient Point Ferry. My excitement was over the roof because instead of smelling the flowers from the road, I actually got to see all of the purple glory up close.

Decorated all around the lavender fields are these adorable crafted signs saying things like “Lavender is Bliss,” “Live Life in Full Bloom,” and so much more. Some my older readers might remember this old post from 2015 talking about the importance of bees. I have a huge soft spot in my heart for bees despite being stung by a hive when I was little. Some of you may know that the bee numbers have drastically decreased due to pesticides. It’s up to us top plant bee friendly plants, such as lavender, to make sure that these lovely creatures don’t go anywhere. Without these sweet little friends, say goodbye to delicious foods such as apples, blueberries, cherries, broccoli, leafy greens, cucumbers, pumpkins, almonds, avocados, and so much more. Planting lavender not only helps the bees but it also helps keep mosquitos away. So it’s a no-brainer plant some lavender and help the bee population!

Now some of you may think it’s weird that I wore an all black outfit to a hot, lavender field. Yes, I admit it may not have been my smartest decision, but I needed to show you guys this adorable dress I scored at American Eagle. It’s currently on sale right now for $20! I’m really just obsessed with these side ties. There is nothing like a dress that is totally unexpected and a little out of my comfort zone to force me to pull out my wallet. I paired this bold dress with a huge statement necklace from Forever 21 and these Steve Madden shoes that aren’t pictured in this post (my bad!). If you end up going to this adorable lavender field throw on some sandals and a light colored dress… you’ll be much happier than if you wore a black dress.

And of course… what is a trip without a little perusing around a gift shop? The lavender field has this adorable little gift shop filled with lavender scented pillows, oils, lotions, soap, and so much more. The shop even sells lavender in large bundles and big lavender bushes if you want to take the field home with you. Fun fact: unlike other flowers, when when lavender is cut you don’t put it in a vase with water. It is actually better if you dry them so that they don’t rot and keep their smell.

If you’re ever in the north fork of Long Island or catching a ferry in Orient Point this is definitely a spot to check out. What did you do over the Forth of July weekend? Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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Spring Outfit Recap 2017

Published on June 20, 2017June 20, 2017 by PeculiarPorter13 Comments

Hello darling! Guess what day tomorrow is? The first day of summer. It is crazy how fast time flies. I’ve already graduated a little over a month ago… and guess what… yesterday, I accepted my first job. I’m incredibly thrilled and excited to start my new position as a social media coordinator in two weeks. I’m so happy I can finally delete the ZipRecruiter and LinkedIn apps off my phone. Bye-bye job search and hello working girl status.

Styling Jean Jacket

Billie Jean is Not My Lover

I was extremely excited to buy my first jean jacket. I know, it is probably super embarrassing that I’ve never had one before and I should hide all evidence that I never had one before. Luckily for you, I’m pretty open with you guys and I show how I made this jean jacket my own.

DIY Blake Lively Jeans

Okay, I’m completely biased but this post is 100% my favorite out of this spring collection… maybe even my favorite post on my blog. I show you how you can turn a cheap pair of jeans into this chic, boho pair of painted jeans. If you need some spunk in your current wardrobe definitely check out this post. You could even do it to a pair of shorts.

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

If mint pants aren’t your cup of tea these ones are about to. Sometimes polka-dots can be tricked to pair with other elements, but I show you how you can add the perfect amount of sassy to your favorite polka-dot pair of jeans.

What I’ll Remember Most About Siena College

Okay, so if you click on that link be prepared for a tear jerker. I think back on all of the amazing times I had at Siena college and try not to cry my eyes out. Also, I show case all of my friends rocking their best formal gear.

Senior Cruise

This senior event was a little bit more casual than our formal but all the seniors still killed the game. I’m already counting down the day until the next time I can wear this blue dress. P.S. it is on sale right now and comes in black!

Siena College Champagne Toast

Take a sneak peak into one of the best traditions Siena College has. Plus, I show you a peak at all our graduation caps.

Siena College’s Graduation

Ahh, yes the dreaded moment where we all enter the real world. I’m not going to lie I balled my eyes out at graduation when they played a sappy video of all the moments the class of 2017 shared together. 63 days until 100 days post gradation where I get to see the lovely class again.

How To Spice Up a Graphic Tee

Let me show you a few of the tricks I have up my sleeve when it comes to styling a graphic tee. Graphic tees are definitely a key fashion piece for any fashionista.

Stripes that Flatter

I’ll admit, finding the right stripes for your body can be a tricky adventure. Check out a few of my tips on how I find the perfect stripes for my body.

Why You Need Pointed Flats in Your Life

If you don’t already own pointed flats in your life check out this post on why you’re making the biggest mistake of your life. Nuff said.

Now one of the biggest updates I did this spring was create a Facebook page where you can keep up to date on my blog posts. I’m going to start posting more on it so I’ll hopefully see you stay up to date on some of my fun posts coming up. But if you want to see the best inside scoop on what my day to day life is I would check out my Instagram. I’ve been on a following frenzy so I’ll be sure to check out your Instagram as well.

So what was your favorite look? I’m between my DIY post and my Graphic Tee post. Let me know in the comments down below.

As always,

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Stripes That Flatter

Published on June 13, 2017June 13, 2017 by PeculiarPorter20 Comments

Hello darling! How is your day going? It is finally h-o-t in Connecticut. It is about time! The past month has been wishy-washy from low 50’s to low 70’s so you bet I’m ready for some nice 80° weather.

Earlier this spring, I interned with Saratoga Living Magazine. I wore this stripe J.Crew dress on one of my days in the office. I definitely have a love hate relationship with stripes and I have a few tips up my sleeve on how I pick the perfect stripe dress.

Tip: Look for pieces that incorporate vertical stripes alongside the horizontal stripes.

If you find a piece that has vertical stripes on your sleeves, near your legs, or on your waist line it will automatically make your silhouette look slimmer and leaner. One of the main reasons I love this dress so much is because the vertical stripes on my waist make my petite torso look so much longer than it actually is. The wide pleats below my waist line also elongate my hips making my waist look even smaller. So when you’re looking for a stripe dress find one that incorporates vertical stripes in your “trouble areas.”

Tip: don’t go overboard with stripes.

Stripes are a busy pattern. It might be wise to try and keep stripes as minimal as possible. If your want more stripes in your outfit try for a bigger pattern so that it doesn’t overwhelm the eye. Since this dress has very tiny stripes it was good that it was at a shorter length compared to a midi or maxi dress. The stripes would have been overwhelming with that amount of fabric.

Tip: Include a bold color in your outfit to break up the busy pattern.

My polo cardigan is the perfect addition to this outfit to break up the thin stripes. If you want to experiment with stripes in this warmer weather definitely try out a bright colored shoe, earrings, or necklace… maybe even a hat! They are all great additions that will incorporate not only your personality but some fun in your outfit.

Other than rocking some stripes I’ve been hunting down jobs. Some of you may be curious how I’m handling my post college life. I’m in this bittersweet faze where I’m happy that my four years are done but also sad that I’m not returning to my “home” this upcoming fall. I’ve been applying to jobs left and right on LinkedIn and Ziprecruiter. I’ve had a few bites here and there and I have a big interview today (fingers crossed that it goes well). My dreams and moral are high so it’s just up to the big guy to send me in the direction I’m needed.

Do I have any recent college graduates reading my blog? Let me know in the comments down below how you’re handling the post college life.

As always,

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Photo Credit: Blogger friend Alicia Bryan. Her blog.