Now is probably one of the best times of the year to think about buying a winter coat. It’s before the first I’m-so-freaking-cold-why-haven’t-I-bought-a-new-coat day, but after stores have brought out loads of coats – and even marked some down! If you’re in need of a new coat this year (or just want something that doesn’t say North Face on the shoulder), Thanksgiving is the perfect time to pick one up. If you’ve moved to a slightly different climate for school, by now you can probably anticipate what you’re going to need to get your butt to class every day; you’ll be home with your parentals’ moolah; and what better time to buy a coat then when you can get one for cheap (Black Friday, anyone!?)?

There are so many styles of coats (and capes!) to suit your personal style and work with your lifestyle. Whether you only go outside when necessary or you need something to watch Quidditch from the sidelines, there’s a coat out there for you. And, damn girl, they are cute! Read More »

Military-inspired clothing is one of the biggest trends for fall, and while I’m not opposed to the idea, I am having a hard time picturing it fitting into my wardrobe. The trend is so tough and structured that it’s hard to imagine it outside of an army barrack, let alone meshing well with my girly floral dresses or my rocker-chick leather boots (which have enough tough all on their own).

Of course there’s always the military-style pea coat option, but I’m looking to update my actual outfits with some trendy new pieces for fall. Which is why the D’armee Dress from Anthropologie is absolutely perfect.

I have yet to come across another piece that is able to totally channel the military trend while still being utterly feminine with adorable detailing a flirty shape.

The army green keeps with the army-fatigues theme, as does the tough zipper hardware that runs down the front of the dress and the double-breasted pockets with brushed gold buttons. These strong elements are balanced out with endearingly feminine details. I am in love with the ruched sleeves, tabbed shoulders, the pleated skirt, and the cinched waist which perfectly accents an hourglass figure.

Plus, layering cami’s underneath can totally change up the vibe of the dress. Adding a floral print tank will play up the feminine details of the dress and create a perfect day ensemble with tights and flats. For night, adding a black lace cami and lowering the zipper will make it sexy enough for bar-attire. And belting the dress with a brown leather belt, adding a neutral cami underneath and slipping on some worn-in leather boots will have you totally rocking the rugged, military trend that is so hot for fall.

Thank you Anthropologie…I can always count on you to put a romantic, feminine twist on the newest trends. Now I just need you to have a massive sale so that I can bring home this dress without sacrificing my happy hour (hey, once I buy this dress I need to be able to show it off….).

If there is one thing I hate this time of year, it’s the realization that pretty soon my iced coffee and flip flops will be replaced with puffy jackets, steaming hot tea and the phrase “I can’t feel my fingers – get me to Florida.”

But there is one thing I love this time of year: fall coats.

You can’t have any ill feelings toward a fall coat. It’s not too cold when you wear them, the trees are pretty, Pumpkin Spice Lattes are in season and they are always so irresistibly cute.

If you live in coat-wearing climates, a great coat is worth spending a little more on because you wear it day in and day out. It’s what most people see you in (i.e. that cute boy walking right next to you on your way to class!) and it’s the best way to cover up a hot-mess-schlumpy outfit. Throw it over sweats and a baggy T-shirt, or the outfit you wore last night and are forced to walk clear across campus in this morning, and everyone will be none the wiser.

Here are 10 great fall coats, from cropped to trench, military to leather, that will make the iced to hot coffee transition a little more bearable. Oh and did I mention they are all under $150?! Booya. Read More »

I can’t believe Christmas has already passed. Is this year flying by or what? New Year’s is less than a week away, which means it’s only two weeks until I’m breaking my resolutions.

So, are you happy that winter’s finally arrived, or have you added a “Days to Summer” countdown to your Myspace profile? To determine whether the glass of egg nog is half empty or half full, let’s weigh the pros and cons of winter!

Pro: We get a month off from trekking around campus just when the temperature hits below zero.

Con: The “spring” semester starts in January. Brr!

Pro: Whatever holiday you celebrate, you’re bound to get some free stuff over break.

Con: You’re bound to get some free stuff you don’t want for the holidays, especially from your Grandma, who means well, but hasn’t been in style since the Great Depression.

Pro: Homemade treats, including (but not limited to) pumpkin pie, fudge, Christmas cookies, popcorn balls, and anything with chocolate in it.

Con: The calories that come with those treats.

Pro: You can get away with layering baggy clothes after indulging in the above treats.

Con: Spring break (and bathing suit season) is still just around the corner. Read More »

I cannot stand being cold.

As soon as the temperature gets any lower than 60 degrees I start piling on the layers and planning ways to keep my core temperature up. When it comes to bundling up to go outside, I have no shame.

I’ll wear scarves that don’t match my coat. I’ll wear a hat that flattens my hair. I’ll wear ski gloves with a peacoat. I don’t care.

I’d rather sweat than shiver.

But now, I don’t have to be ugly to be comfortable, because long sleeved gloves are back!

This isn’t to say I’m blindly following trends here, but the resurgence means retailers will be carrying these beauties! Whether they be wool, cotton, rayon or synthetic…doesn’t matter. Itchiness doesn’t matter when it’s negative 4000 degrees outside.

And? Now my wardrobe can go farther!

Have a short sleeved or 3/4 length jacket that’s perfect for the season? Wear it! Your gloves will have your back (and arms).

Ah, I love when trends multi-task.