xo,
Alexandra S.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Motivational Monday
I found this quote the other day and I thought it was perfect to start the week off on a good foot. I know a little Bob Dylan can always pick me up!
Enjoy the Monday!
xo,
Alexandra S.
xo,
Alexandra S.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Outfit of The Day- Sunday Brunch
While most of the kids on campus roll into the dining hall on Sunday morning in last night's makeup and sweatpants, I like to dress up a bit. I think it is fun and also putting on an actual outfit usually helps me be more productive in the day since I am not tempted to crawl back in bed. For this lovely Sunday I channeled my girliest self and created this outfit that is perfect for fall. I especially love this outfit because I got the best deal out of it!
My white lace dress is Urban Outfitters and I found it on clearance for $9.00. When I saw it, I didn't know if I wanted it mostly because it is fairly short, but for $9.00 I felt like I couldn't pass it up and I am so glad I didn't. It is fun and girly but since it is also basic, you can add anything to it to make it edgy or soft.
I paired it with this denim jacket that is technically my mom's (sshhh), some black tights from Forever 21, and suede booties.
The booties are probably my favorite part of the outfit. They are Dolce Vita and originally over $100 but I found these adorable shoes at Marshall's for around $80 over the summer. While they are still a bit of a splurge, you are getting such an amazing deal on them. If you ever want designer or pricier items, go to Marshall's first because they have the best deals on everything!
I added a simple gold necklace to keep the theme of simplicity but add a subtle pop. I am not normally one for lace, but I really like the lace detailing paired with the rougher texture of the denim; it adds an unexpected dimension.
My white lace dress is Urban Outfitters and I found it on clearance for $9.00. When I saw it, I didn't know if I wanted it mostly because it is fairly short, but for $9.00 I felt like I couldn't pass it up and I am so glad I didn't. It is fun and girly but since it is also basic, you can add anything to it to make it edgy or soft.
I paired it with this denim jacket that is technically my mom's (sshhh), some black tights from Forever 21, and suede booties.
The booties are probably my favorite part of the outfit. They are Dolce Vita and originally over $100 but I found these adorable shoes at Marshall's for around $80 over the summer. While they are still a bit of a splurge, you are getting such an amazing deal on them. If you ever want designer or pricier items, go to Marshall's first because they have the best deals on everything!
This outfit goes perfectly for a fall Sunday and I am sure I will be re-wearing this again, since it is casual and cute.
xo,
Alexandra S.
P.S. Don't forget to follow me on Twitter and Instagram!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexandraRedein
Instagram: http://instagram.com/alexsonett
Tumblr: http://girlinafantasyland.tumblr.com
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Confessions- 6 Things To Tell My Freshman Self
When I think back to my freshman year of college I just get a strong urge to laugh because of how clueless I was to everything. But of course, that is normal for a freshman! It would not be right if someone came in to college 100% dialed in. However, here are six things that I wish I knew when I was a freshman to help me get through the daily obstacles a little bit more gracefully.
1. Take the professor, not the class.
Ever heard of Rate My Professor ? I hadn't until halfway through my first semester. Although a class may sound stimulating and interesting, chances are if the professor is boring the class will be boring too. It is actually amazing to me how much a good professor can make a mediocre subject so interesting! I am in a class right now that does not particularly interest me subject wise, but the professor who is a highly established literary scholar in his field, is so knowledgable and passionate about the class, that I find myself practically clinging to every word in class; and really, it can't get better than that. It will make homework, exams, and papers a hundred times easier to get through. Trust me, take the professor, not the class.
2. Your new best friend- H20.
Seems a bit random, but I never realized how little water I was consuming in college until it starting impacting my daily activities big time. Carry a water bottle with you to class because it will not only save you from dehydration, it is definitely a good item to keep in your hands if you have the urge to start tapping your pen. Also, prepare a water bottle before you go out at night. There is absolutely nothing worse than coming back to your room at 2 AM and waking up at 5:30 AM with that pounding headache- signs of a good night. Get water ready before you go out so when you come back you can drink the whole bottle and feel good as new in the morning! Learned that one the hard way when I first came to college.
3. Look for everything FREE.
Although as my dad says, nothing is every actually free. As a college student though, you may beg to differ. Since it seems to be inevitable that every college student has a lack of dollars in their wallets, it becomes a mission to find every free opportunity that presents itself. I now have the largest collection of random things in my room that I pick up from every booth or festival that occurs and it is a bit baffling how often I actually use them. For example, the last time I bought pens was actually my freshman year of college. All my sleep shirts are the shirts that are given out for free at every school event. Get on that free stuff hype, it's worth it.
4. Dining hall steals
There was a big debate in my philosophy class if borrowing/stealing fruit, cups, plates, snacks from the dining hall was moral or not. In my opinion go for it. As a innocent freshman I actually went and bought silverware and plates from target. Don't do it. If you have a backpack it is easy to swipe whatever you need and just keep it in your room for the semester or year then give it back at the end! I don't see it as wrong if you give it back at the end. Also, most freshman don't have access to cars to go to the market all the time. Definitely grab some fruit or cereal to go for those late night munchies in the library. It's not wrong, just go for it.
5. Don't stay on campus every weekend.
Although it can be difficult to get to places without a car, find a way! If you go to school away from your hometown, make the extra effort to find cool concerts, festivals, shows, events, that are off campus. Not only is nice to get a break from campus, it is super fun and a great way to get to know the city you go to school at. There is usually a way to get anywhere you want so make it happen! It also makes your Instagram more interesting and you can document your adventures on Facebook or Twitter, then everyone can see how much fun you are having!
6. Social Media YES
Some people may disagree, but I am an avid social media user and I think it is the best possible thing for every college student to get on board with. Not only is it super fun and a good way to connect, more and more companies are using social media as a way to promote their business so it looks really good if you know what you are doing. It helps foster connections, get answers quickly, and keeps you updated on the latest news and trends.
Those are the first things that popped into my head for things I wish I knew as a freshman. A bit random, but hey that's college right?
xo,
Alexandra S.
1. Take the professor, not the class.
Ever heard of Rate My Professor ? I hadn't until halfway through my first semester. Although a class may sound stimulating and interesting, chances are if the professor is boring the class will be boring too. It is actually amazing to me how much a good professor can make a mediocre subject so interesting! I am in a class right now that does not particularly interest me subject wise, but the professor who is a highly established literary scholar in his field, is so knowledgable and passionate about the class, that I find myself practically clinging to every word in class; and really, it can't get better than that. It will make homework, exams, and papers a hundred times easier to get through. Trust me, take the professor, not the class.
2. Your new best friend- H20.
Seems a bit random, but I never realized how little water I was consuming in college until it starting impacting my daily activities big time. Carry a water bottle with you to class because it will not only save you from dehydration, it is definitely a good item to keep in your hands if you have the urge to start tapping your pen. Also, prepare a water bottle before you go out at night. There is absolutely nothing worse than coming back to your room at 2 AM and waking up at 5:30 AM with that pounding headache- signs of a good night. Get water ready before you go out so when you come back you can drink the whole bottle and feel good as new in the morning! Learned that one the hard way when I first came to college.
3. Look for everything FREE.
Although as my dad says, nothing is every actually free. As a college student though, you may beg to differ. Since it seems to be inevitable that every college student has a lack of dollars in their wallets, it becomes a mission to find every free opportunity that presents itself. I now have the largest collection of random things in my room that I pick up from every booth or festival that occurs and it is a bit baffling how often I actually use them. For example, the last time I bought pens was actually my freshman year of college. All my sleep shirts are the shirts that are given out for free at every school event. Get on that free stuff hype, it's worth it.
4. Dining hall steals
There was a big debate in my philosophy class if borrowing/stealing fruit, cups, plates, snacks from the dining hall was moral or not. In my opinion go for it. As a innocent freshman I actually went and bought silverware and plates from target. Don't do it. If you have a backpack it is easy to swipe whatever you need and just keep it in your room for the semester or year then give it back at the end! I don't see it as wrong if you give it back at the end. Also, most freshman don't have access to cars to go to the market all the time. Definitely grab some fruit or cereal to go for those late night munchies in the library. It's not wrong, just go for it.
5. Don't stay on campus every weekend.
Although it can be difficult to get to places without a car, find a way! If you go to school away from your hometown, make the extra effort to find cool concerts, festivals, shows, events, that are off campus. Not only is nice to get a break from campus, it is super fun and a great way to get to know the city you go to school at. There is usually a way to get anywhere you want so make it happen! It also makes your Instagram more interesting and you can document your adventures on Facebook or Twitter, then everyone can see how much fun you are having!
6. Social Media YES
Some people may disagree, but I am an avid social media user and I think it is the best possible thing for every college student to get on board with. Not only is it super fun and a good way to connect, more and more companies are using social media as a way to promote their business so it looks really good if you know what you are doing. It helps foster connections, get answers quickly, and keeps you updated on the latest news and trends.
Those are the first things that popped into my head for things I wish I knew as a freshman. A bit random, but hey that's college right?
xo,
Alexandra S.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Wear- The Look for Less
I've been seeing a lot of great fall trends lately that are super easy to wear in an everyday setting such as leather, cropped sweaters, and a lot of basic staples that are put together to create an effortlessly chic outfit. However, with these trendy styles comes a hefty price, that I as a college student am not willing to pay. I took inspiration from stores like Aritzia and Club Monaco to put together an adorable outfit that is perfect for the quintessential fall day.
Since I am getting older and style is becoming more sophisticated I do find it worthwhile to invest clothing that may be a little more than places such as Forever 21 or H&M (even though those are still great stores!) but still not outrageously high prices. For my outfit today I went a simple color blocked outfit topped with a camo jacket to add some edge.
I'm wearing a basic white chiffon tank top from Zara and I threw over a cream cropped sweater from Urban Outfitters. I saw this cropped sweater trend EVERYWHERE usually with a silk tank and a cashmere type sweater. This look gives you the same exact style for a fraction of the cost!
I topped the sweater and tank off with this super cool camp jacket from the Men's section of Urban Outfitters. The jacket has leather detailing on the shoulders and pockets that perfectly incorporate the leather trend in a doable, everyday style.
Finishing off the look with a wine colored lipstick from Buxom (the color is Tokyo) and a simple braid in my hair, I felt just as chic and fashion forward as any other person wearing the expensive version.
I think it is really important to be able to find affordable trendy pieces because they are going to go out of style eventually. You don't want to waste money on things that last for only a season or two. If you want to invest in something, I would recommend a really solid, staple piece that will be wearable no matter what the trends are.
I hope everyone has an amazing fall day! Enjoy the beautiful air while it lasts :)
xo,
Alexandra S.
I'm wearing a basic white chiffon tank top from Zara and I threw over a cream cropped sweater from Urban Outfitters. I saw this cropped sweater trend EVERYWHERE usually with a silk tank and a cashmere type sweater. This look gives you the same exact style for a fraction of the cost!
I topped the sweater and tank off with this super cool camp jacket from the Men's section of Urban Outfitters. The jacket has leather detailing on the shoulders and pockets that perfectly incorporate the leather trend in a doable, everyday style.
Finishing off the look with a wine colored lipstick from Buxom (the color is Tokyo) and a simple braid in my hair, I felt just as chic and fashion forward as any other person wearing the expensive version.
I think it is really important to be able to find affordable trendy pieces because they are going to go out of style eventually. You don't want to waste money on things that last for only a season or two. If you want to invest in something, I would recommend a really solid, staple piece that will be wearable no matter what the trends are.
I hope everyone has an amazing fall day! Enjoy the beautiful air while it lasts :)
xo,
Alexandra S.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Inspire- Grateful, Surprise, Happy.
One thing my mom taught me about a year ago is to understand and think about your day in a positive light. I told her it was much easier said than done, but nonetheless was curious to see how she was able to achieve these nightly goals.
She said at the end of every day write down three things: one thing you were grateful for in the day, one thing that surprised you, and something that made you happy. Simple, right? It definitely took me a long time to regularly get in the habit of thinking about it and writing them down, but once I started to do it regularly, I can honestly say I sleep a little better and wake up a little fresher.
Usually I just jot down the three things from that very simply, not a lot explanation written by it because I know it in my head; for the sake of this blog post, I will elaborate on my day's 3 realizations.
Grateful: My beautiful lab Lovey. Lovey has been in our family for 7 years and I have enjoyed every minute (mostly) with her. She really is so lovable and the sweetest lab you will ever encounter. As I am home for a brief fall break, I walked in the door expecting her wagging tail but instead I saw her laying on the floor post intensive surgery. My parents said they almost had to put her down; she had four tumors. It was so shocking seeing her like this, when just two months ago I said goodbye to her perfectly happy and seeing her running around like a puppy. The next few days were hard, but today I saw so much improvement in her and-que the cheesiness- I was just so grateful to see her back wagging her tail and basking in the sun. It is so easy to take advantage of the presence of a pet, but when things take a turn for the worse, it puts it in perspective. Lovey is my best friend and I am eternally grateful to have her in my life.
Above: My beautiful momma and I celebrating
our birthdays this past August.
Right: Family beach day! Yes, it was in the summer, but say hello to the rest of the family!
Thanks mom for playing photographer.
Overall, I have just found that these little exercises have helped me with my general attitude and well being throughout the day and especially when I go to sleep. Since I tend to carry all my stress right before I go to sleep, this helps relieve some of that and end on a note that will typically leave me with even the slightest smile.
Let me know if you decide to try it out and if you think it helps!
xo,
Alexandra S.
She said at the end of every day write down three things: one thing you were grateful for in the day, one thing that surprised you, and something that made you happy. Simple, right? It definitely took me a long time to regularly get in the habit of thinking about it and writing them down, but once I started to do it regularly, I can honestly say I sleep a little better and wake up a little fresher.
Usually I just jot down the three things from that very simply, not a lot explanation written by it because I know it in my head; for the sake of this blog post, I will elaborate on my day's 3 realizations.
Grateful: My beautiful lab Lovey. Lovey has been in our family for 7 years and I have enjoyed every minute (mostly) with her. She really is so lovable and the sweetest lab you will ever encounter. As I am home for a brief fall break, I walked in the door expecting her wagging tail but instead I saw her laying on the floor post intensive surgery. My parents said they almost had to put her down; she had four tumors. It was so shocking seeing her like this, when just two months ago I said goodbye to her perfectly happy and seeing her running around like a puppy. The next few days were hard, but today I saw so much improvement in her and-que the cheesiness- I was just so grateful to see her back wagging her tail and basking in the sun. It is so easy to take advantage of the presence of a pet, but when things take a turn for the worse, it puts it in perspective. Lovey is my best friend and I am eternally grateful to have her in my life.
Surprising: Today I found the beauty of the fall leaves surprising. Down in Southern California we kind of skip the fall and go straight from summer leaves to dead, barren trees. Not all that exciting. Since I am home for a couple days, I have just been surprised at the pure and raw beauty that my home town has to offer. Every time I come home I expect the beautiful hills, but I am still taken aback at how stunning this place I call home is. The leaves everywhere are golden and orange. It is just breathtaking, and today it surprised me. In the best way possible of course!
Happy: Again, mushy...but my family made me happy today. They make me happy most days, but taking in my last day with them before heading back to school, I was just happy to be around them! We definitely are a crazy family but I love every minute of it, so I am going to go sleep smiling thinking about our adventures together.
Above: My beautiful momma and I celebrating
our birthdays this past August.
Right: Family beach day! Yes, it was in the summer, but say hello to the rest of the family!
Thanks mom for playing photographer.
Overall, I have just found that these little exercises have helped me with my general attitude and well being throughout the day and especially when I go to sleep. Since I tend to carry all my stress right before I go to sleep, this helps relieve some of that and end on a note that will typically leave me with even the slightest smile.
Let me know if you decide to try it out and if you think it helps!
xo,
Alexandra S.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Inspire- Music Mondays
Monday's are a struggle for seemingly everyone; for a college student they seem to be exponentially harder after the weekend. Chances are you are exhausted from the weekend, exhausted from the day of classes, then piled up with a load of work that will have you in the cafe studying all night.
For me, having a good playlist always makes studying a lot more enjoyable as well as motivational.
Here are some of my fave songs so far for October that have been on my monday playlist.
Enjoy! xo,
Alexandra
Yes Yes- The Colourist
Shake it Out- Florence + the Machine
Austere- The Joy Formidable
Give Me Love- Ed Sheeran
Tongue Tied- Grouplove
Ships in the Night- Matt Kearny
No Faith In Brooklyn- Hoodie Allen, Jhameel
Tennis Court- Lorde
Heartbreaker- Justin Bieber
Pumpin Blood- NONONO
My Darlin'- Miley Cyrus
How Does it Feel- The Green ft. Kimie
Nothing Left to Lose- Matt Kearny
Something Good- Alt-J
Sweater Weather- The Neighbourhood
These Streets- Bastille
Burn- Ellie Goulding
Daydreamin'- Ariana Grande
Don't forget to follow me on Spotify to check out all my other playlists!
For me, having a good playlist always makes studying a lot more enjoyable as well as motivational.
Here are some of my fave songs so far for October that have been on my monday playlist.
Enjoy! xo,
Alexandra
Yes Yes- The Colourist
Shake it Out- Florence + the Machine
Austere- The Joy Formidable
Give Me Love- Ed Sheeran
Tongue Tied- Grouplove
Ships in the Night- Matt Kearny
No Faith In Brooklyn- Hoodie Allen, Jhameel
Tennis Court- Lorde
Heartbreaker- Justin Bieber
Pumpin Blood- NONONO
My Darlin'- Miley Cyrus
How Does it Feel- The Green ft. Kimie
Nothing Left to Lose- Matt Kearny
Something Good- Alt-J
Sweater Weather- The Neighbourhood
These Streets- Bastille
Burn- Ellie Goulding
Daydreamin'- Ariana Grande
Don't forget to follow me on Spotify to check out all my other playlists!
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Autumn Beauty- Top Products
Because autumn is my favorite season, everything that comes with it is always an automatic favorite as well. For fall, I love keeping my beauty routine really simple and classic since I like to play around more with my fashion. Since the weather does get colder, a lot of people start to stray towards darker looks, but I like to keep mine pretty clean. Don't get me wrong, I love a great dark lip, but chances are I won't be rocking that just to go study. So, here are some of my favorite fall must haves to complete every fall look in an effortlessly chic look.
Let's start with the nails; These two Essie polishes are my obsession! The first lighter one is Ballet Slippers. Perhaps one of the most well known Essie colors, this is definitely a favorite of mine. I love this color because it is opaque and the perfect balance between a nude and baby pink. The simplicity of it ties every color together. It is a great way to stay professional because it is such a neutral color, so it's perfect for interviews or work. The more pink nail polish is Essie's Vanity Fairest and I am in love with this color. This baby pink color has a hint of shimmer to give a flirty vibe and is not as opaque as Ballet Slippers so it is great for complimenting outfits rather than being part of of the outfit. Both colors are perfect for fall because rather than being dark and vampy (which is still amazing) these are really great basics that will come in handy at any time during the season.
Another cult favorite is the MAC blush in the color Plum Foolery. As you can tell from the title, it is a plum colored blush that is my go to for fall. The plum base is complimented with a golden shimmer that simply screams autumn. I love this because it is such a great way to warm up your face and hide that cold weather pasty color. All my friends love to borrow this color from me and from this, I've seen that it looks amazing on so many skin tones. This versatile blush is a great staple and a gorgeous color overall. What more could a girl want?!
But of course, what would I do without Benetint? This cheek and lip stain is hands down my favorite stain I've come by. When I'm not in the mood for a lip gloss or lipstick, I just dab a little onto my lips and it creates the perfect pink color, making it look like my lips are naturally flushed. And for your cheeks, if you want a matte, simple look, this is great for that windblown cheek flush color that every girl lusts after.
And last, but certainly not least is MAC's dazzlegloss in Date Night. First of all, this lipgloss actually smells like marshmallows so that is reason enough to be a fall fave. Other than that, this is one of the most unique colors I have a come across; It has a sort of raspberry base which is perfect for seasonal changes but it is accented with blue, yes blue, shimmer in it. I didn't think I would wear this a ton because of the blue, but I find that it is very subtle in such a pretty way. Go try it out for yourself and see what you think!
These are just a couple of my autumn favorites, and I can't wait to try out more!
xo
Alexandra
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Healthy Eats- Dorm Room Musts
If you love food as much as I do, you know that it is almost impossible to not be munching on something delicious. So often in college, students are constantly busy or they they don't have the proper means to make a real snack so the snacks often consist of yucky process foods like Easy Mac, Ramen noodles, chips, soda, candy, etc. These foods are not good for you! Though they are easy and cheap to purchase, the processed sugar, added fat, and unnatural additives will actually prevent you from getting that extra stamina you might be looking for. Processed sugar (sugar added to anything usually in a package), might give you that boost of energy for an hour, but you WILL crash leaving you feel even more tired than before and running on low energy. All these types of packaged, processed foods usually contain a ton of simple carbohydrates which are bad for you. Of course, you need carbohydrates in your diet to survive, however, you want to be consuming COMPLEX carbohydrates which are found in several different foods that are just natural foods, nothing in a box.
As a poor college student, I 100% understand the cost dilemna, so I have compiled a quick list of foods from Trader Joe's that are not only inexpensive, but healthy and will keep your energy up! You can swap these out for typical college snacks.
*also, a quick tip: when looking at the nutrition facts, look at the ingrediants list...usually the more ingredients listed, the worse it is for your body. *
DORM ROOM SWAPS:
Potato Chips, Cheetos, etc.-------> Pita Chips
These pita chips are so addicting. I prefer them to regular potato chips because they offer so much flavor and they are filling. These are simply baked pita bread sprinkled with some sea salt. Here you are getting the complex carbohydrates and no added ingredients (minus salt) so these are a great snack in moderation. They are also very plain so they are great for adding things to!
Dried Fruit, Fruit bars, Fruit snacks--------> Real Fruit.
I don't know why people seem to be so obsessed with getting fruit flavored food items. Why not get the actual fruit???? I could/do eat fresh fruit for breakfast lunch and dinner because it is so amazing. When I go to the market I always pick up apples, grapes, berries, bananas, and then whatever seasonal fruit is available. Fruit is great because the natural sugar in it curbs sweet tooth cravings, and since fruit is full of complex carbs, it keeps you full for a while which makes it a fantastic snack. Or, lets be real, it is so fun to Instagram because of the vibrant colors. Eat fruit! It's so worth it.
Veggie Sticks/Chips-------> Carrots.
I'm actually obsessed with carrots. These baby carrots from Trader Joe's are so easy to keep in your room and have on hand! They have that super satisfying crunch to them and they are really filling. Carrots are filled with Vitamin A as well other vitamins and have only .2 grams of fat.
Trail Mix--------> Raw Almonds, or other raw nuts.
Raw almonds are one of my favorite snacks. Raw almonds are loaded with protein which will keep you feeling full for longer and will actually reduce cravings in between meals. Almonds can be high in fat, but don't be scared off by the word fat! This fat is rich in Omega-3's which is essential to actually burning fat and regulating your metabolism. Almonds are considered a super food which means they are unbelievably good for your body. The best part is, you only need a small handful (11-12) to keep you full. This is a great alternative to trail mix which has nuts in it, but also contains chocolate, and dried fruit which is excessively high in sugar.
These are just a few of my must haves in the room! Let me know what you think.
xo,
Alexandra S.
As a poor college student, I 100% understand the cost dilemna, so I have compiled a quick list of foods from Trader Joe's that are not only inexpensive, but healthy and will keep your energy up! You can swap these out for typical college snacks.
*also, a quick tip: when looking at the nutrition facts, look at the ingrediants list...usually the more ingredients listed, the worse it is for your body. *
DORM ROOM SWAPS:
Potato Chips, Cheetos, etc.-------> Pita Chips
Dried Fruit, Fruit bars, Fruit snacks--------> Real Fruit.
Veggie Sticks/Chips-------> Carrots.
Trail Mix--------> Raw Almonds, or other raw nuts.
These are just a few of my must haves in the room! Let me know what you think.
xo,
Alexandra S.
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