The End of an Era

    I have grown up watching "the Upper East Side elite" on the CW's show, Gossip Girl, in high school. I must admit, not only is the high-paced drama is exciting to watch, the impeccable style of each of the character's has also been a huge component of my loyal following throughout the years. My two favorite characters of all of television, Serena Van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf, have been great inspiration to me as I have tried to find my own unique style in the fashion world. 

 

    Blair's preppy, pristine, and put-together looks have taught me the true definition of class while Serena's more calm, cool, and collected looks have taught me the essence of being effortlessly chic. 

 

    The last season debuted two Monday's ago, and the outfits have already caught my eye. Take a look at some of my favorites so far..

    After doing some digging, I think the season is definitely one to look forward to! After all, who is Gossip Girl if not someone to go out with a bang..

 

And of course, our favorite boys won't disappoint either..

 XOXO, 

Ashley

 

Sources:

http://www.wetpaint.com/gossip-girl/gallery/gossip-girl-season-6-spoilers-first-look-at-serena-and-her-new-love-interest-photos#9

http://www.fabsugar.com/Gossip-Girl-Season-6-Fashion-24287397?slide=15

http://ale-fashion-xo.blogspot.ro/2012/07/gossip-girl-season-6-pictures.html

http://richesforrags.tumblr.com/

http://www.chicshopperchick.com/2012/07/gossip-girl-season-6-fashion-blake-lively-in-haute-hippie-alice-olivia-and-christian-louboutin/

http://www.wetpaint.com/gossip-girl/gallery/gossip-girl-season-6-spoiler-photos-serena-and-blair-scream-at-each-other-on-the-street-photos

http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/celebrity/pictures/35434/0/gossip-girl-season-6-on-set-style.html

http://cwtv.com/shows/gossip-girl/photos/006636207c1

Moccasin Madness

    Happy Tuesday Fashionistas! I hope that you all had a great long weekend and are excited to be in the month of September. 

 

    At my school, we have to wear a uniform so the only way I can really express my individual style is through my shoes. Therefore, I am always looking for new shoes that are not only cute, but also comfy. Moccasins as well as fringe boots and booties have been increasingly popular in the past few years, and they are going to be again this fall with BP's New Frontier trend. My favorite brand of these types of shoes is Minnetonka (available at Nordstrom). The prices are reasonable and they look authentic! 

 

    I love how these shoes are so casual and laid-back but also incredibly trendy. Many different stars have been seen sporting similar styles...

 

    If you're a moccasin kind of girl, there are plenty to suit your likeness. They are found in a range of colors and many even have delicate beading or stitching to really capture that Indian feel.

 

    Then, there are booties. A little bit smaller than a boot but larger than a moccasin slip-on. There are different styles within this category. I am for sure asking for the fringe chestnut booties for my birthday!

 

    Lastly, there are the boots. My sister has the 3-layer fringe dusty brown suede ones and wears them all the time! They're unique and fun--a great shoe to show off your individual style in if they suit you!

 

What types of shoes are you looking forward to wearing this fall and winter?

 

XOXO, 

Ashley

 

Sources:

http://www.luuux.com/fashion/minnetonka-moccasin-boots

http://www.thechicfashionista.com/minnetonka-boots.html

http://global.rakuten.com/en/store/womenslab/item/1-27-8-8/

http://sphaha.alone.at/

http://www.shoeblog.com/blog/shoe-look-a-like-minnetonka-vs-tory-burch-suede-boots/

http://media-cache0.pinterest.com/upload/94223817174024634_06IK1khS.jpg

http://web.stagram.com/p/222741414626114700_33915942

http://www.tokyobanhbao.com/page/2/

http://popyactually.com/

http://www.minnetonka.co.uk/blog/

http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/194358540138746311_tSoS70Gi.jpg

http://www.abeautifulmess.com/page/2/

http://weheartit.com/entry/10496960

http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/267823509060551474_wyBxcaaT.jpg

http://www.elarmariodelamoda.com/streetstyle/

http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/boots

http://minnetonkamoccasin.com/Products/Category/womens

Lovely Leather

I am absolutely loving all of the faux leather pieces that I have been seeing in BP recently!  Faux leather is perfect for fall and it will keep you warm during those chilly days and nights to come.  

Nordstrom's faux leather items look and feel real, so you're not missing out!  And if you are an animal lover, like myself, it definitely feels better to be wearing something that did not harm any animals throughout the production process.  Faux leather is also way more affordable than the real thing.    

Don't be afraid to try it out!  Faux leather is so versatile and you really can wear it in your own way so that it matches your individual personal style. 

 

  I love wearing leather in a feminine way.  A leather jacket over a lace dress or a leather skirt paired with a patterned silk tank and heels is my perfect feminine edge look.  

 

 If you have more of a boho style, try adding a pair of faux leather pants to your wardrobe.

   

Would you be brave enough to try a full leather outfit like a leather dress?  

 
 

These ladies pull off the leather look perfectly!

 

 
 

 

 

I want this Lily White faux leather peplum top!  It is so unique and the zipper down the back adds a fun twist.

 

This faux leather tank from BP is also a great alternative to a basic cotton or silk tank.

 A leather jacket is a fall wardrobe must have.  Lucky for you, BP has plenty of stylish options to choose from!  I have a Collection B jacket in tan and another one in a cream color.  I love my faux leather jackets and I really do wear them all the time.  Find one that you love here!

 
 

Have a fabulous week and if you haven't already fallen in love with faux leather, give it a try!  

Stay inspired,

Meredith

Photo Credits

• http://www.flickr.com/photos/kristynam/4221846120/
• http://www.collectionb.us/look-book/?slideshow
• http://chicisimo.com/fashion/fashionista/paillet/sets/grunge-chic/p:rock-it-28/
• http://whitneyport.celebuzz.com/trend-report-summer-leather-07-2012/whitney-port-trend-report-summer-leather-7
• http://stefanusngrh88.wordpress.com/category/event/page/2/
• http://vi.sualize.us/black_leopard_romwecom_shoes_black_leather_oasap_jacket_red_ellysage_skirt_400_pixie_fashion_picture_z7Fz.html
• http://www.peoplestylewatch.com/people/stylewatch/gallery/0,,20435132_20822022,00.html
• http://wardrobemag.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/whitney-port.jpg
• http://weloveyousarahpalin.blogspot.com/2012/01/whitney-port-look-for-less.html
• http://foxmuldar-conservative-thinker.blogspot.com/2012/07/stealing-models-thunder-jessica-alba.html
• http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151123184274339&set=a.10151123171749339.455405.362222639338&type=3&theater
• http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151123173434339&set=a.10151123171749339.455405.362222639338&type=3&theater
• http://www.posh24.com/photo/614764/olivia_palermo_leather_dress_r
• http://www.nypost.com/p/pagesix/celebrity_photos/day_in_photos_aug_IcGtiud3v7N5LsAk2FqBqN
• http://www.hollywood.com/news/Katie_Holmes_Demi_Lovato_Celebrities_Leather_Summer_PICS/34407102
• http://chicisimo.com/fashion/fashionista/paillet/sets/grunge-chic/p:love-me-not/
• http://chicisimo.com/fashion/fashionista/paillet/sets/grunge-chic/p:total-black-102/
• http://officechicla.tumblr.com/post/27532481061/olookdodia-emily-schuman-leather-dress-fall
• http://www.fashion-infatuation.com/2012/05/celebs-rocking-biker-chic-style.html
• http://apair-andaspare.blogspot.com/2011/08/diy-miu-miu-inspired-louboutin-glitter.html

 

Pretty Plaid

  

 

  One of my favorite trends for fall has always been plaid. This print has been around forever in many shapes and forms. Take a look at some celebrities who have tried this trend over the years...

 

    One reason that I love plaid so much is that it's so versatile! There are so many different ways to wear it.

    Most people associate plaid with flannels for a casual or country kind of look. They are great for country concerts, but also just to throw on when hanging out. Borrow an older brother or boyfriend's oversized flannel for an extra comfy yet fashionable look!

 

    As I said before, plaid can be worn in many different ways though. A lot of people have made plaid look edgy. Add a leather jacket or some boots for the perfect combination of chic and punk. 

 

    Plaid can also be made to look pretty and polished. Preppy plaid is becoming increasingly popular. For this look, the right accessories are key.

 

    Two styling tips I have for wearing plaid this fall are to layer and to wear your plaid top unbuttoned with a different shirt underneath!

Layering: A Peep of Plaid

 

Shirt Underneath:

 

    I love how BP's Back-to-School looks show that plaid doesn't always have to be in the form of a flannel. Their new shirts are extremely light and comfortable! Check them out here:

Plaid in BP

 

Will plaid be included in your back to school looks? 

Have a great weekend!

XOXO, 

Ashley

Sources:

http://krisnicolekane.tumblr.com/post/4571071352/elle-street-chic-milan-get-a-jump-on-falls

http://www.theyallhateus.com/search?updated-max=2011-06-21T02%3A08%3A00-07%3A00&max-results=20

http://mileyimages.org/displayimage.php?album=1864&pid=78841#top_display_media

http://itsraybanvision.tumblr.com/

http://richesforrags.tumblr.com/#4

http://capecodcollegiate.tumblr.com/

http://www.fabsugar.com/Celebrities-GQ-Men-Year-Awards-2011-18994088?slide=1#1

http://mllr.wordpress.com/2011/08/29/goat-town/

http://www.polyvore.com/akls_dhfa_sdjkfla_sdjflasjdfl/thing?id=25848276

http://lookbook.nu/look/954503-CHECKERED

http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/84090718012428920_VFvRLUaT.jpg

http://modernhepburn.tumblr.com/

http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/135319163773483954_5cuk6cYg.jpg

http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/33847434669066623_2VQ3oIje.jpg

http://favim.com/image/40304/

http://fashionaddictbitch.tumblr.com/page/8

http://dansedelune.tumblr.com/post/12852446931/nouvelle-nouveau-who-victoria-horning

http://pinterest.com/pin/99642210476554580/

http://eloquentsparkle.tumblr.com/post/17546143803

http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/198017714835430694_C6TO6Ilq.jpg

http://www.chictopia.com/photo/show/370882-Present+Tense-ralph-lauren-blouse-dolce-vita-shoes-old-navy-pants

http://www.brooklynblonde.com/

http://arr0w.tumblr.com/post/13786931960

http://pinterest.com/pin/5348093277145875/

http://modernhepburn.tumblr.com/page/21

http://pinterest.com/pin/99642210476554640/

http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/29132728809263447_2fbvvL26.jpg

http://www.lateafternoonblog.com/search?updated-max=2012-03-18T09:19:00-07:00&max-results=5

http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/18577417182431862_jOA7HE3r.jpg

http://mariannan.indiedays.com/

http://www.mystylepill.com/

http://media-cache0.pinterest.com/upload/238972323947181094_vbtGLlq8.jpg

http://augustrussh.tumblr.com/post/12110072855

http://www.etpourquoipascoline.fr/2011/09/le-petit-pont-de-bois/

http://plai-n.tumblr.com/post/17961289154/naturallybrunete-wanna-be-tumblr-famous

http://chrisanthemums.tumblr.com/archive

Life's a Beach

Now that summer is around the corner, I have been thinking about the pool nonstop. Besides your bathing suit of course, the bag you carry in the summer can make a big statement. I love all the different adorable style beach bags! The ultimate beach bag is summery and fun with stand-out colors and textures. It also has to be big enough to hold all of your necessities-- sunscreen, sunglasses, extra clothes, towel, book/magazine, etc...

Straw bags always remind me of the beach! They have that tropical feel and are a great material that will stand the wear and tear of bringing it to the beach or pool. Do you prefer the neutral colored classic straw or brightly colored?

 

I love these straw bags from Nordstrom. Check out the blue tote, the pink tote, the floral shopper, the Roxy small purse, the Juicy Couture tote, or the Rebecca Minkoff leather and straw tote...

In fact, any tote bag will do! My favorite are the ones with unique patterns. Striped nautical totes also look great, especially paired with a fedora!

 

Got tennis practice and are thinking of hitting up the pool after? This adorable tennis green tote or this lemon twist one would take you from one to the other and have you looking chic at both!

I also love this nautical canvas tote! Perfect for a day out on a boat..

 

 

A cute backpack always works too! If you're walking or going to be gone the whole day, this may be the best option for you...

 

I love this tribal print backpack from BP! The southwest pattern is so interesting and the backpack itself would be great for travelling. 

 

XOXO, 

    Ashley

Sources: 

http://island-air.tumblr.com/post/16687425714 

http://weheartit.com/entry/28658838

http://www.clavablog.com/2012/04/ready-set-spring/

http://underfundedheiress.blogspot.com/

http://stylewithruwez.blogspot.com/2012/04/beyonce-spent-easter-in-st-barth-with.html

http://heaven-of-pink.tumblr.com/post/22433447407 

http://www.pursepage.com/other-designer-handbags/emmy-rossum-leighton-meester-hit-the-beach-with-a-tory-burch-tote.html

http://coolspotters.com/actresses/selena-gomez/and/handbags/h-and-m-leopard-print-straw-beach-bag/media/1735871#medium-1735871

http://westside.blogg.se/ 

http://namasteh.tumblr.com/post/21869698095 

http://nudexrude.tumblr.com/ 

http://www.mochacafe.net/page/3 

Taking Shorts to New Heights

Now that the sun is finally out, we can start baring our legs again! 

One of my favorite trends for warm weather is rompers because they are so fun and easy! When you can't figure out to wear, they are a great thing to throw on. Not to mention how comfortable they are. Dress them up or down and they always look adorable!

I'm especially loving printed rompers right now. You don't need much else because the prints steal the spotlight. Add some sandals or patent pumps and simple jewelry to complete the look!

Another favorite among celebrities is a solid black romper. Blake Lively knows how to wear her's plain and simple as well as how to dress it up with colorful accessories. Which look do you prefer?

 

Ashley Tisdale, on the other hand, tends to go for a more laid-back style. These casual rompers are great for hanging around the house or a cover-up over your bathing suit while on the way to the beach or pool this summer.

 

A spin off of the romper is the jumpsuit! I have been seeing this trend all over the place lately, particularly in black...

 

If you want to try the look out yourself, BP has got you covered with this black one. I love the way the model contrasted the jumpsuit with her neon heels!

 

Yet another way to show off those fabulous legs of yours is wearing high-waisted shorts. Whether tight or flowy, I think a pair of these looks best with a belt and tucked-in top!

 

These high-waisted nautical shorts and these flowy lace ones from BP are my new favorites!

 

Enjoy the weekend! 

XOXO, 

    Ashley

P.S. Don't forget to get those applications in! The final day is tomorrow!

 

Celebrity Looks For Less

I don't know about you all, but I am constantly reading the magazines and obsessing over my favorite celebrities' latest outfits. I cut out pictures and make boards to help inspire my looks. I know I can't afford half of what they wear, but it's fun to recreate their looks for less! You can still feel amazing without spending a fortune. All you have to do is look for the key pieces, fix what you don't like about the outfit, and voila you look like a star too! Here are some of my favorite casual celebrity looks recreated with BP pieces!

 

I absolutely love this for a casual spring day. It is so versatile that it would be perfect for either a day at the park or a day in the city! The pieces are simple which allows you to accessorize as much as you like! I would add gold sandals and some funky jewelry...

The asymmetrical maxis are so popular right now! Have you rocked this style yet?

 

 

Jessica Alba shows us how to pull off rocker chic! I love how playful this look is while still having an edge!

St. Patricks Day anyone? I think this is a great outfit for a party or a concert. The cold-shoulder tee is one of my favorites, and you can throw the leather jacket on when the temperature drops at night to give your outfit that extra edge!

 

 

I love this classic look! It's sophisticated and feminine, and all of the pieces complement each other perfectly!

My favorite piece in this outfit? The blue statement necklace. I love how it pulls the whole outfit together!

 

All pieces are available in BP (:

 

And don't forget to apply for BP Fashion Board! As we've told you tons of times, it's an amazing experience with fashion insight, new friendships, trend forecasting, the history of Nordstrom, job opportunities, and so much more! Applications are due in a month! Click here to get started:

Download BP Nordstrom2012-13Application

XOXO,

    Ashley

 

What are you planning on wearing this weekend?

 

Breakfast at Nordstrom's

Classic, chic, timeless, Audrey Hepburn, a true beauty inside and out will forever be an inspiration to myself and the fashion world.  Her influential grace, simplicity and style are reflected everywhere in the fashion industry.  Audrey not only inspired her countless fans, but she was and still is a muse to many designers.  Audrey Hepburn became the style icon that she is today because of her simple, timeless looks that featured bold accessories including statement jewelry, hats, sunglasses, long gloves and pearls galore.  The Audrey Hepburn look will never go out of style and she will always be an exceptional inspiration.

My friend Brittany did a modern day Audrey Hepburn inspired photography project.  I played Audrey and these are the results along with some quotes by the one and only Audrey Hepburn herself…

“Why change? Everyone has his own style. When you have found it, you should stick to it.” 

“Make-up can only make you look pretty on the outside but it doesn't help if you're ugly on the inside. Unless you eat the make-up."

"Paris is always a good idea."

"I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick. I believe in pink. I believe happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and... I believe in miracles."   

The influences of Audrey Hepburn are seen everywhere in today's fashions.

This lace gown reminded me of a dress that is currently available in BP.

And this black dress  could easily turn you into an Audrey for the night.  

These sunglasses look quite similar to the popular must-have Ray-Bans of last summer…

Audrey's preppy look is definitely a current and constant trend.  And patterned pants like these (florals in particular) are going to be big for spring!

Hats are a spring break must, so try accessorizing your beach look with one!

Audrey lived the life of a Givenchy Barbie.  In her time, she was Hubert de Givenchy's muse and she was very frequently dressed in lovely head to toe Givenchy.

Givenchy

Givenchy

and more Givenchy...  

Remember to take a look back in fashion history for inspiration, the past does have a way of repeating itself…  Audrey Hepburn will never go out of style, so when in doubt, channel your inner Audrey, smile and think What Would Audrey Do.

 

Stay lovely,

Meredith

 

Bright Blazers

As we all know, we have to brighten our outfits to escape the greyness of winter. One trend that I have been seeing all over that can help us do this is colorful blazers. I absolutely love blazers in general! They go with just about any outfit from jeans and a tee to a formal dress. Many have been standing up against the classic grey and black blazers with candy-colored and neon ones!

How fun are these? With blazers from tangy orange to bubblegum pink to lime green, there is a color for everyone! My favorite especially are the electric blue ones.  Here are some looks that incorporate colored blazers into the transition to spring. 

 

Jessica Alba shows us how to pull off the 70s tailored look with a colored blazer. Pair high-waisted dark wash jeans with a blazer in your favorite color and a neutral tee underneath to get this classy look!

 

I absolutely fell in love with this vintage feminine look as soon as I saw it! The Barbie pink blazer and matching lips, polka dot top, and floppy hat all work extremely well together!

 

A bright blazer paired with a floral romper looks free-spirited yet polished. 

 

Be a trendsetter and switch out your same old cardigan, pullover, or even black blazer for a bright one. You will surely turn heads everywhere you go so wear it with confidence! 

Check out these blogs to get more information on statement blazers and Jessica Alba's look above.

http://madamenoire.com/tag/colorful-blazers/

http://www.fabsugar.com/Jessica-Alba-Green-Blazer-January-2012-21499997

 

Want one of these but don't know where to get them? Nordstrom has multiple blazers. My favorite are this standout pink one and soft green one.

Till Friday, 

    Ashley

 

 

 

Hat Couture

We've all seen the celebrities sporting fedoras, floppy hats, and even fascinators lately. I have never been a huge fan of hats, but they have definitely grown on me in the past year, especially after reading an article entitled "Mad Hatter" in the last issue of Teen Vogue by Jane Keltner de Valle.

Here are some ways to pull off a chic hat this winter:

Do keep a lookout for this trend as spring approaches as well. They are perfect to pair with a basic, laid-back outfit on a breezy day. Hats are also spring break must haves, especially when travelling! Wear them to the airport after just waking up to avoid having to deal with messy hair or while out in the sun...

 

Hats are a great and easy trend to try if you live in the city or somewhere warm. If you don't, however, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and give them a chance! They instantly add intrigue and a touch of boyish charm to any outfit.  Like jeans and blazers though, I think we rock this trend better than the boys, shhh..

 

Enjoy the long weekend!

-Ashley