Geneva Snapshots

This past Friday my mom and I decided we wanted to do something fun before my internships started up (more on that to come). So, we ventured off to Downtown Geneva which is a town not to far from us. I've never been in the area so I was excited to explore something new. The downtown area was nothing short of charming, cute, and adorable all in one! There were so many restaurants and tiny boutiques which is refreshing from all of the chain restaruants that are stuck in the suburbs. 

We started off the morning just walking around seeing what was around. Then we decided on brunch at Buttermilk which is a lunch and breakfast restaurant. Everything on the menu sounded amazing but my mom and I ended up splitting the strawberry banana Nutella french toast along with a cheese omelet. The food was great and their coffee menu looked to die for, but I stuck with a Diet Coke. I would for sure go back to this adorable restaurant soon!   

The inside of Buttermilk was also adorable!

Every street has these little tile markers which I thought were so cute! 

We stopped into a stationery store which was basically heaven for me. With adorable cards, Rifle Paper Co. and Kate Spade goodies, and fun gifts this place had everything. 

Downtown Geneva had so many flowers! As a flower fanatic I loved walking around and seeing the different flowers. It was so colorful and perfect to brighten up for the gloomy day we were having. I thought this flowers sign was super cute to point to a nearby flower shop. 

What is your favorite small downtown area near you? Let me know in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda 

Memorial Day Sales

Memorial Day is one of the best times to stock up on a ton of great stuff! Sales are all around us and my wallet has fallen victim. But, there are some great things on sale that you just can't pass up! I've picked up a few things from vineyard vines who is having 30% off sale items! I also picked up a few things at the Nordstrom Half Yearly sale. If you live by an outlet mall I suggest making a trip because I got major deals at the Tory Burch, J Crew, Burberry, and more! 

VINEYARD VINES | 30% off ALL sale items 

$50 Shep Shirt! | cute flip flops | classic tote | Derby dress (available in all sizes!)  | Derby Shep Shirt

NORDSTROM | Up to 40% off! 

Kate Spade phone case | Ted Baker bag | Ray Ban aviators 40% off! | Vince Camuto heels 

JACK ROGERS | 

white and metallic  | Alana sandal | suede loafers | must-have bag 

J CREW FACTORY | 50% off EVERYTHING and extra 40% off sale items

boardwalk shorts | pineapple sweater | printed dress | cute pocket tee | collared cami | gingham flats

What sales are you shopping this weekend? Did you score any great deals? Let me know in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda 

New Beauty Products

Recently I've tried two new hair products that I normally would never have tried! First is the Nuxe hair oil. I'm normally not a hair oil person because when it comes to hair I keep things pretty simple. Just style and some hairspray, maybe some sea salt for texture. But, I've tried out this hair oil and it makes your hair oh-so-soft and silky. Personally, I don't like the scent but I am not a big perfume gal. If you are into floral or musky scents this hair oil would be right up your alley. The great thing about this hair oil is that it can also be used on your face or body. Aka double duty! If you are into hair oils I think it is worth the try. But, fair warning the smell may not be your cup of tea. However, it isn't a long lasting scent! 

The next product I've tried recently is the Not Your Mothers Plump for Joy spray. First things first, this spray smells amazing! The smell alone is a reason enough to use it. But, this spray gives a little extra volume to your hair. You can use it with either wet or dry hair which is nice. So far I've only used it on dry hair, but I do think it adds some volume. I have fine hair so adding something like this Plump for Joy spray helps me get a little more volume. I wouldn't say that this product changed my life, but I think for around $6 it's a good buy!

Another new beauty product I have tried, again, is the Cutex nail polish remover pads. I am continually amazed by these pads! They are super easy to use and remove nail polish very quickly. If you are someone who uses nail polish regularly then these will be your new best friend.

What are some new beauty products you have tried recently? Let me know in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda 

Both of these products were given to me to review through Influenster. All opinions are my own. #SoCutex #Contest 

Birthday Wishlist

monogram pearl bracelet | bow bracelet | wedge lace sandals | History in High Heels art prints 

pineapple sandals | tank dress | printed popover | monogram necklace | drusy bangle | tote bag 

Chicago art print | notepad | Le Pen set | Sugarfina candy gift set | neutral flip flop 

striped blazer | Best Day Ever mug | Ice Ice Baby tumblr 

My 21st birthday is less then a month away! Which means I've been creating a birthday wish list. I thought I would share my wish list because this is the perfect birthday gift guide for any preppy girl. Also, a lot of these gifts would also make great graduation gifts!

 Recently I've been loving Rifle Paper Co. or anything stationary related. I'm loving art prints like the Chicago print, or the Gossip Girl print from History in High Heels Etsy shop. Not to mention this Rifle Paper Co. Lesportsac tote is so cute! A large pack of Le Pens are also on the wish list, they are my new favorite felt tip pen! 

Also, I recently tried Sugarfina's champagne gummy bears from their new Oakbrook location. Holy moly they are delicious! 

Do you have a June or summer birthday? What is on your birthday wish list? Let me know in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda

Chicago Snapshots

This past week I made multiple trips up to Chicago for a wide variety of things. First trip of the week was to the Shedd Aquarium with my best friend and mom for our annual trip. Every summer for the past few years we take a trip to the aquarium. It's become one of my favorite summer traditions! This year we made the trip a bit earlier because we had the time and we wanted to miss the normal summer crowds. It was the perfect day and we enjoyed snapping some photos on the patio near the food court. (*hint* it's the best spot to take photos of the Chicago skyline!) 

The views from the aquarium are amazing! I love how you can see the entire Chicago skyline. I snapped this picture with my new IL vineyard vines sticker I got at the Oakbrook location. The Oakbrook and Chicago store have super cute Chicago apparel. If you're in a store be sure to ask if they have a city specific sticker in stock!

I wore the cutest pineapple button down to the aquarium, so I had to snap some blog photos. Check out the OOTD post here. 

On Thursday we ventured into the city for a meeting I had at Stan's Donuts. Guys, these donuts are amazing. My mom and I have been dying to try them so I was thrilled I had the excuse to heading out to Stan's. I got the apple fritter and it was oh-sew-good! Not to mention their bags may be cuter then the donuts themselves. This day we also met my brother at Belly Up a new BBQ place just off of Michigan Ave. It was to die for! I got a sampler slider plate with BBQ chicken, pulled pork, and brisket sliders. If you are in the area it is a must. It is for sure one of my new favorite BBQ places! 

Saturday my boyfriend and I headed into the city for The College Prepsters meet and greet at vineyard vines. We arrived and headed straight to Shake Shack, our favorite, for lunch. Then we walked around to Kate Spade, J Crew, Kendra Scott, and Bloomingdales. 

The Kate Spade store downtown isn't huge but I love all of the decorative touches in the store. This Live Colorfully sign was to cute not to take a photo. 

Then the highlight of my week, and likely my summer, I met Carly from The College Prepster! Since I started blogging and reading blogs in high school I've followed Carly's blog. She was so sweet and it was so cool to meet her in person! 

Do you want more posts about my Chicago summer adventures? A Chicago travel guide? Let me know in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda 

JimmyCASE Review

I'm constantly changing my phone case! Having an iPhone has become an accessory in itself these days. I love changing up my phone cases and finding new cute designs. 

As a college student a functional but cool phone case is the dream combination. JimmyCASE phone cases combine great looks with a practical design. I picked out the wallet iPhone 6 Wallet Case case from JimmyCASE and I am loving it. My case features a pink and grey band with a white bumper. Every case has gorgeous mahogany wood to create a unique look. 

There is a stretchy fabric band on the back that is made for sliding in credit cards, your license for bar hopping, or your school ID. This wallet phone case is perfect for any college student on the go and would make a great high school graduation gift! College students live for multi-tasking, at least I do, so this case does double duty as a wallet and phone case. 

Not to mention this phone case can eliminate the need for a wallet in your purse or pocket. Since I am turning 21 next month I know I will be using this case to lighten my purse when going out. If you're a person who already uses your phone as a wallet (aka putting your card or money on the bottom of the case), this case is perfect! The band is super stretchy but stays in place so your cards won't fall out. So, this case not only protects your phone but, protects your cards and cash. 

An added feature of JimmyCASE phone cases is that they can be customizable! Pick your band and bumper color for a personalized look. Choose from multiple bands and black and white bumpers to make a JimmyCASE just for you! I opted for the girly case, but there are lots of options for both girls and guys. In my opinion they would make unique gifts for your boyfriend or guy friend. 

What is your favorite phone case? Be sure to check out JimmyCASE for your next phone case. 

XOXO 

Miranda 

JimmyCASE sent me a phone case to review. All opinions are my own. 

OOTD: Pineapple Time

Summer time means city time. Monday my best friend, my mom, and I took our yearly summer trip to the Chicago Shedd Aquarium. I love looking at all of the fish and sea animals at the Shedd. Personal favorite are the whales! The Shedd is a great place to go if you are traveling to Chicago for a vacation or if you are from the area and have never been. 

For a day of walking I like to dress comfortable but cute. By pairing a classic button down with your favorite jeans you can create a casual look that is still put together. This army green jacket is one of my go-to of the moment. Right now the weather is super odd for it being mid may. It hasn't gotten warmer then around 60 so a light jacket is a must-have. I picked up this classic green utility jacket from J Crew Factory and it is the best! They have this style at both the regular and outlet store. It's perfect for spring or fall and can be worn with practically anything. 

Pineapples are my new obsession. This white button down with embroidered pineapples caught my eye recently and I had to pick it up. So cute! Adding small details like fruit or a print to any outfit is a fun way to spice things up. 

Walking around all day also calls for comfortable shoes. Recently I've been loving these Sperry espadrilles. But, I also love Keds or comfy sneakers for a day of walking around in the city. 

*Excuse my Shedd Aquarium wristband*

To accessorize this look I added a cute anchor KJP bow bracelet to add a nautical touch. I also added some dainty Kendra Scott bendable bracelets I picked up at Von Maur last week. They were on sale for $11-$15! What a steal! If you have a Von Maur nearby be sure to check out their jewelry sale section for some good deals. 

Where it's from: 

Shirt: J Crew 

Jacket: J Crew 

Jeans: American Eagle 

Shoes: Sperry Top Sider 

Earrings: Kate Spade 

Watch: Henri Bendel 

Bracelets: KJP, Kendra Scott, & Alex and Ani 

Belt: Aerie 

Sunglasses: Ray Bans 

What is your go-to outfit for exploring? Let me know in the comments!
XOXO 

Miranda

Graduation Gift Guide

Tory Burch flats | business card holder | classic tote bag 

Longchamp tote | fun planner | classic watch | classic navy shift | passport holder | jewelry box 

Alex and Ani bracelet | personalized pearl bracelet | Louis Vuitton Speedy bag 

High school and college graduations are happening which means it's gift giving season again. As a college student I've collected a few things I think would be perfect college graduation gifts. These are all must-have items or something fun you can gift your grad! My best advice for graduation gifts is to give your grad something that is timeless and classic. But, you can also give them something fun and cute to help celebrate their accomplishments. High school grads would also enjoy most of these gifts! 

What are your graduation gift ideas? Let me know in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda 

OOTD: Blue Crew

Preppy pastel blues mixed with navy is the perfect spring color combination. Add a dash of pink and we are in business! I love layering a button down with dresses, it creates a unique look and double duties your dresses into skirts. 

Mixing prints can be scary for some, but this look makes it super easy. For the beginner I suggest mixing prints like this seersucker button down with a small polka dot print. This way you are mixing prints but in a subtle way. By pairing two smaller prints together you can achieve a fun but simple look. 

Although I left campus this past weekend, this spot is one of my favorites during the spring time. These adorable little blue flowers are scattered all over campus and add a dash of color. Iowa State during the spring time is just darling. There are colorful blooming trees everywhere you look. They are beautiful but not so good for my allergies. 

To add another pop of color to a monochromatic look I accessorized with a bold statement earring. The earring features some blue stones that tie everything together. 

I've been using this bag on repeat ever since I've gotten it! A fun colored bag adds a necessary dash of color to any look. 

Keds are a must-have spring item for me. These Keds are actually from the 80s and used to be my moms! Now I wear them all the time and they are perfect to pair with dresses or skirts to create a more casual look. 

Where it's from: 

Dress: Urban Outfitters

Shirt: Ralph Lauren 

Shoes: Keds (vintage)

Bracelets: KJP & Alex and Ani

Earrings: Baublebar

Watch: Henri Bendel 

Bag: Coccinelle 

Sunglasses: Ray Ban

Photography by Maggie Anderson

How do you mix prints for spring? Let me know in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda 

OOTD: Flamenco Fun

For a recent event in April I picked up the most talked about Lilly set from the Spring collection. The Flamenco print is all the rage and I am totally on board. Bright pink and green pineapples, hello it's perfection! I loved the two piece set in this print and I knew I had to have it.

For this look I decided to pair the skirt of the set with a simple crisp button down. The best part about purchasing a set is that you can wear it so many different ways. You can pair it together or wear the skirt or top on its own. 

By pairing the bright skirt with a more simple top you could wear this to work, a day of shopping, or to class. But, now that it is officially summer I don't have to worry about class *thank goodness*. 

This skirt is super flattering on a ton of different bodies because of the pleats and flowy silhouette. I think Lilly should start selling this skirt in all of their prints as a separate because it is just oh-sew-cute! 

To accessorize the look I wore a fun pair of Kate Spade glitter stud earrings along with some of my favorite bracelets. I've been loving my Bourbon and Bowties bracelets that I picked up in Florida over the past few months. I found this adorable Moon and Lola collaboration bracelet along with a more simple pearl option. Stacking them with simple Alex and Ani bangles completes the look. But, I can't forget my pink pearl KJP bracelet! I've been reaching for this one constantly and I think I've grown to love it more then my classic pearl KJP bracelet. 

Where it's from: 

Skirt: Lilly Pulitzer (part of a two piece set) 

Shirt: Ralph Lauren 

Shoes: Jack Rogers 

Bracelets: Alex and Ani, Bourbon and Bowties, and KJP 

Watch: Kate Spade 

Earrings: Kate Spade
Sunglasses: Ray Bans 

Photography by Maggie Anderson 

Do you have a two-piece Lilly set? How do you style it? Tell me in the comments! 

XOXO 

Miranda