Tag: bohemian

Brooklyn Bound—A Look Perfect for Summer in the City

Even though I’ve lived in New York City for over a year, I still enjoy finding new places to explore and returning to old favorites. This weekend, I made a trip to DUMBO, Brooklyn to check out the Brooklyn Flea and take in the Manhattan skyline. I recently purchased this Free People red maxi dress from a sample sale and this weekend seemed like the perfect opportunity to take it out for a spin.

I paired the dress with my favorite sunnies, a pair of circular, silver reflective shades. To match the sunglasses, I also wore silver jewelry including a few vintage bracelets and my staple rings and watch. Everyone needs a handbag to carry all of their stuff; I opted for this Chanel one, but you can find similar ones that don’t break the bank. To finish off the outfit, I wore a pair of black espadrille sandals complete with little silver studs to match the rest of the look.

It’s summer in New York CIty and this outfit kept me perfectly cool in the heat. Although, sitting on the subway with a bare back was less than ideal!

 

If you’re coming into New York City during the weekend, I definitely recommend making the trip to Brooklyn to explore the flea markets and food fests. The Brooklyn Flea features tons of vintage and antique items including cameras, clothing, knick-knacks, and so much more. Hungry? Choose from a wide selection of food stands featuring dishes from local vendors and restaurants.

What’s your idea of a perfect summer outfit for a weekend in New York City? Leave a comment down below or post on social media and don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista!

How I Styled My Italian Vacation

During the past month, I was lucky enough to have spent a week traveling Italy with my family. While I enjoyed sightseeing and all of the culture of the beautiful country, I was especially interested in the fashion and trends that can be spotted almost anywhere. Feeling inspired by the fashion around me, I put together these five outfits.

This first outfit I put together for a casual day of shopping in Milan. These wide-leg pants are super comfortable and could be seen all over the fashion capital. I paired my pants with a simple black top to balance out the bolder pattern of the pants. I accessorized with a simple black hat, brown watch, and basic brown sandals.

While still in Milan, I styled this outfit for a somewhat casual dinner with my family. I focused the look around the statement green sunglasses. I found tons of unique, fun glasses like these while shopping the streets and decided I must have a pair of my own. I paired the sunglasses with this striped blouse, solid skinny jeans, and white platform wedges.

I wore this outfit to a more dressy dinner on the island of Capri. This look has a similar theme to the last with the stripes and another pair of statement sunglasses, but with darker colors in order to create a more formal vibe.

This next look has a colorful bohemian style and was perfect for lunch on the island. I love this dress because of its unique print and hemline. I paired the look with chunky, lace-up wedges and complementing bandana scarf. These types of scarves were another trend I saw in abundance throughout my trip.

My last outfit was styled for a day of shopping and sightseeing in Positano. I kept the look pretty simple with a solid black oversize top and patterned shorts. To accessorize, I chose a pair of comfortable nude heels and a black crossbody.

Did anyone else go abroad this summer? If so, what trends did you spot? Let me know in the comments below!

Get Inspired With This Festival Look

One of the most sought after and braggable summer activities for people in college is going to a music festival. Coachella, Electric Forest, Bonnaroo, Firefly Music Festival, and Lollapalooza are just a few of the big names out there. Music festivals are a huge trend right now that have people from all different parts of the country attending and bringing their different styles with them. The music festival trend has not only attracted crowds in the masses but has created its own kind of style.

A popular trend at festivals is the tie dye material. As you can see, this Fashionsta rocks the tie dye look super well. Her tie-dye maxi dress with the slit in the leg is the perfect combination of comfortable and cool. Yes it is a dress, but no it’s not over the top or too dressed up looking. Her accessories are on point as well for this outfit. From her super trendy, round frame, nude sunglasses to her double-layered choker, this Fashionista knows what’s in.

As far as practicality, she knows what to do as well. Festival season isn’t something that you bring your nicest handbag to or really any handbag at all. The boho, crochet backpack is extremely handy and cute. She can fit all of the things she needs inside without worrying about holding onto her purse all day.

Another practical thing that this Fashionista brought along with her was her sandals. These are the lace up kind that won’t rub your feet after wearing them hours on end!

What are you wearing to festival season? Share your festival outfit photos on social media and don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista. 

How to Channel Basic Bohemian Summer Vibes

In the summer, it’s important to have some quick go-to styles that are easy to pull off. My biggest pet peeve is being too hot in my clothes when I’m out and about in the summer. When shopping, I tend to look for textures and materials that are lightweight and clothes that are easy to throw on and take off. I can wear these bohemian styles on a summer night out or a relaxing night in. Together these two outfits highlight the easy-going but versatile way to style your clothes by staying cool and comfy. 

Textured jeans are quick to throw on and add some bohemian vibes to any outfit. I normally stay away from jeans in the summer, but these are form fitting in a way that isn’t skin tight. The color blocking on the pant legs is also a refreshing element that makes you look super trendy. Paired with a simple flowy top, these jeans are sure to make you stand out. I also tied the shirt up to give it a fun and flirty vibe. Throw on some summery canvas shoes, and you’re ready to go!

This second look is great for any occasion: a lunch by the beach, casual cocktails with your girls, or a lounge day. These linen pants can be dressed up or dressed down. Pair them with a cute pair of sandals to achieve this easy look. While it doesn’t have any particularly busy colors or textures, this look is flattering on anyone and easy to accessorize according to your style.

Each of these looks is fun and easy to wear all summer long. I know my wardrobe is full of easy-to-wear basics that can create looks like these to keep me cool and fashionable this summer!

Show us how you wear the summer basics in your wardrobe! Be sure to tag @CFashionista on social media!

Teach Me How To Yogi

College life can be stressful. Between classes, extracurriculars, jobs, and a social life, it’s easy to become anxious or overworked. I sat down with college student and yogi, Lindsay, to discuss how yoga can benefit your life.

CollegeFashionista: Tell me a little about yourself.

Lindsay Ehret: My name is Lindsay Ehret, and I am a new 21-year-old. I am currently a junior at West Chester University in Pennsylvania. I am a speech-pathology major there. My major is pretty academically demanding, so when I have free time, I do a lot of activities to help me de-stress. Yoga is my biggest hobby that helps me unwind, but I also like to kayak, rock climb, and paint in my free time.

CF: How long have you been doing yoga? What got you started?

LE: I have been doing yoga for about five years now. I began practicing right around when I was about to graduate high school. I began to really push myself in my practice when I was about 19. I began yoga by going to a local yoga studio, I had the most amazing teacher for my first class. I was hooked ever since.

CF: How has yoga improved your quality of life?

LE: Yoga has brought so much peace and happiness to my life. I tend to become stressed easily and feel anxious sometimes. Yoga really helps deal with this. If I am having a stressful day at school, I can just go on my yoga mat for a little while, and I instantly feel calmed down. I also tend to obsess about planning for the future, and yoga helps me to focus more on the present moment. Yoga is also very spiritual for me. Ever since I was introduced to yoga in my late teens, I found that yoga is its’ own religion, one that I instantly connected with.

CF: What advice would you give to anyone who is apprehensive about starting yoga?

LE: I would say that yoga is definitely a journey and one that is well worth it. Many people are discouraged because they don’t think they are strong or flexible enough, but when I went to my first yoga class, I could barely stay in downward dog for more than a couple of seconds. It takes the body a lot of practice to be able to do most poses, so persistence is definitely important.  Don’t get down on yourself if you cannot do the crazy poses that other people can. I would also tell them to go to a beginner yoga class at a studio. Tell the teacher that you have never done yoga before, and the teacher will most likely be more than happy to help you and to assist you. Do not let yoga be intimidating, it is the opposite of that! Beginning to practice yoga will give you so many benefits, including a beautiful mindset on the world and those around you.

What do you do to de-stress? Let me know in the comments below!

San Francisco’s Must-See Summer of Love Exhibit

In honor of The Summer of Love’s 50th anniversary, San Francisco’s very own de Young museum is celebrating this historical event with a spectacular exhibition. I attended on the opening day, three hours before catching a plane ride home. For those who haven’t the slightest idea of what the Summer of Love is, don’t fret. I’ll be guiding you through the museum’s immersive experience, and how the iconic Summer of Love affected history itself.

So, what is the Summer of Love? In 1967, as many as 100,000 hippies gathered in San Fransisco. They showed off their eccentric fashion and behavior in Haight-Ashbury. They are known as the “Flower Children.” This group was not afraid to be themselves, protest for what they believed in, and create art. Go ahead and take a listen to “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)” by Scott McKenzie. This will give you an idea of the culture that the flower children created in San Francisco.

The de Young museum displays include psychedelic rock posters, interactive light shows, music, and countless clothing items from the sixties. The clothing on display features vivid colors, unusual textures, and innovative designs. But what else would you expect from the sixties? The San Franciscan music, fashion, and art scene all influenced each other in an amazing way, making everything flow seamlessly together.

If you’ve read this article or seen the exhibit and feel inspired, getting the San Franciscan “Flower Child” look is easy. Just travel down to your nearest vintage store. Look out for embroidered peasant blouses, bell bottom jeans, and suede fringe jackets. If wearing old clothing doesn’t appeal to you, you’re in luck. Sixties style has influenced today’s fashion trends, and you can find hippie-inspired looks by countless brands.

But, embracing the Summer of Love movement doesn’t have to only be through fashion. In fact, that’s not what it’s truly about. It’s all about being creative, open-minded, and free-spirited. This summer, go out and create something that speaks to you!

Let me know in the comments below how you spent your Summer of Love!

Belted Up With Denim and Ready to Go

As Ritu Kumar once said, “Denim has always been an everyday symbol for style.” Denim is always a piece of your wardrobe to invest in because it has been in fashion since 1873, and, let’s be real, it’s not going anywhere. I’m huge on having pieces in my wardrobe that will carry me through a myriad of different looks. I’m also a huge proponent of color for the summer. When this Fashionista came to visit me at my styling job at the New York location of Scout and Molly’s, I introduced her to new, quality brands that deserve a peep.

One of my fashion icons is WeWoreWhat’s Danielle Bernstein, who is an avid supporter ofAGOLDE denim. When I first began working this summer, I was so excited to find that we carry the brand. These denim shorts fromAGOLDE are high-rise and are long enough that you won’t be afraid of showing too much skin. AGOLDE is a brand to invest in, and when you get your hands on the product you can feel the quality that will take you in for years to come. We college kids are on a budget, and it’s nice to have something that will last you beyond your years in college and remain stylish. This Fashionista felt super comfortable in the pair of shorts we styled, and loved how they had a baggy fit.

It’s really important to not sacrifice animals for style. Society can all agree that the look of animal products are beautiful, but the means of getting the product is gruesome. Matt and Nat is a luxury vegan leather brand from Canada. You may have seen this brand before on popular websites like ASOS. This light pink bag is the perfect summer bag that adds a pop of a color to any look. It is big enough to fit all the essentials, but doesn’t overwhelm the outfit.

Bohemian brand Bishop and Young is known for loose-fitting garments. This loose patterned crop top has a laced-up top. Lace-up tops have been super in this summer, and the colors of this top can carry into the fall season.

A perfect accessory to this outfit was a belt. This particular fringe taupe belt is from ADA collection. There are several ways to wrap this belt, but this Fashionista and I styled it so that the fringe ends wrap in the front. The taupe color perfectly accents the pinks in this outfit and also the deep blue denim wash.

Comment down below what your favorite style essential is and how you would wrap this belt!

3 Fresh Ways to Style Denim Culottes

Culottes take the place as one of my favorite trends. They can be dressed up or down and they can add a certain “je ne sais quoi” to your look. However, when I first bought my denim culottes I had absolutely no idea how to style them. I had a few hits and misses before I finally figured out my favorite ways to wear them. Follow these tips and you’ll be strutting around looking perfectly Parisian in your denim culottes. Don’t forget to snap those artsy selfies!

For my first look, I stuck to the basics: all black and white with simple shapes and patterns. I paired a ribbed black top with my culottes and added the interesting bits on the top and bottom for some cohesion. I sported some frilly socks with my (well-loved) chunky shoes to provide some contrast. A simple black and white striped knotted headband completed this flattering, simple look.

For my second look, I ventured into what I know best: band T-shirts. This cut up Led Zeppelin top helped edge up my look. Pro tip: buy vintage T-shirts from second-hand shops and DIY them! Your finished shirts will be inexpensive and unique. To finish off this carefree look, add some fun sunglasses to the mix. These round colored lens sunglasses add so much personality to any outfit!

For my final look, I paired my culottes with an off-the-shoulder top, another hot trend. This casual and bohemian look is perfect for a breezy summer day. Wear wedges to add some height, as culottes can make one look much shorter than they really are.

Show us how you wear culottes on social media and tag @CFashionista!

Feeling Bohemian and Bold in Yellow

One of my favorite looks for summer is a yellow sundress accented with bohemian jewelry and accessories. When it comes to the sweaty dog days of summer, a breathable outfit is essential for staying cool and stylish. A colorful sundress paired with eclectic rings and bracelets is a great look that shows personality and style. Add a one-of-a-kind hat or scarf and you’ll be ready to rock this summer!

This yellow dress and these black wedge sandals are a classic and timeless summer staple. The bright, warm colors of this outfit will make you instantly approachable and inviting. When people see yellow, they think sunshine and happiness and are more inclined to be happy around the color.

Now let’s talk about summer tote bag essentials. When dressing for sunny July days, remember to throw some sunscreen in your favorite purse. Trust me, you don’t want to be a pasty girl like me and in direct sunlight with no escape route in sight. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, whether they’re subtle or a statement accessory. Additionally, you’d be surprised how many times these oil blotting sheets will come in handy throughout picnics, boat rides, and what should be a leisurely stroll in the park, but ends up fulfilling your exercise quota for the whole week.

For breezy days I would suggest this thin breathable sweater to throw over your playful yellow dress. Use bobby pins to keep your perfectly curled hair in place, making the wind no match for your hair styling skills. If you live in the northeast, you probably know that strong winds on a summer day either means sun showers or thunderstorms. Keep an umbrella in your bag to ensure your hair and makeup stays safe. Bring these gel slides to slip into when your suede lace-up sandals can’t handle the rain.

If you are looking for a fun and friendly outfit to wear to social events, this is the look for you!

Do you feel the same way about yellow? What are your summer style hacks? Let us know in the comments below!

How to Find a Summer Outfit Perfect for Your City Adventures

What I love about summer in the city is that there’s a happier vibe to it. For me, it’s the best season to practice my photography skills and my writing skills as a Style Guru. In the city of Philadelphia, thousands of people crowd the streets when it’s nice out. A popular area a lot of people are seen hanging around is the Center City because many of Philly’s hot spots are within walking distance.

While walking is convenient and a lot cheaper than constant Uber and subway trips, the change in weather is something to be aware of. Sometimes, the hotter it gets, the more frustrating it can be to pick something decent to wear. Thankfully, this Fashionista provided some tips on finding a cute outfit that was meant for traveling.

1—Footwear: She didn’t want to deal with irritated feet or constant rest stops, so she picked white Keds. They are cute and comfortable for walking all day long.

2—Outfit: She went through a bunch of styles before finding the best top and bottom. It was more of a struggle than she thought because she didn’t want an outfit that revealed too much nor did she want an outfit that she would feel gross in. She decided to go with white jean shorts and a bohemian top. The shirt flowed nicely, so it was loose enough for our Fashionista to catch some air but also tight enough where it didn’t look bulky in the wind.

3—Accessories: Her final touches were brown colored rectangle sunglasses and a brown leather strap crossbody purse. Our Fashionista kept her hair down for the day and wore a little makeup. Of course, she had a couple of hair ties and mascara in her bag just in case.

Share photos on social media of what you like to wear while you’re out in the city! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista!