Shorts Season!

A few days ago, when I saw the weather report for the week I was shocked to see that there are a few days that have the potential to be 90-degree days! (Oh hey, Summer!) Not that I'm complaining, I just assumed I'd have Spring before Summer, but it's cool. So my Monday/Tuesday task (that's my weekend) was to switch seasons in my closet. That's when I quickly realized that I am really hurting in the shorts department.

 

Of course, in true shopper-addict

style, I immediately started my search for some more pairs of shorts for this Summer (and apparently Spring as well). I figure that if I'm a little overwhelmed and under prepared with hot weather fashions, that you might be as well; so here are some of my favorite shorts for the warmer weather...

 

 Old Navy Linen-Blend Shorts // these shorts are so comfy and easy; be sure to order a size down

Old Navy Running Shorts // perfect for running errands on a hot day

Lilly Pulitzer Callahan Shorts // such a fun, bold print for the Summer

J Crew Chino Shorts // these come in so many lengths & colors & need to be a staple in your wardrobe (I live in them)

J Crew Printed Pull-On Shorts // so effortless with the pull-on, but fun with the print

Old Navy Printed Chino Shorts // check out the other patterns, I just ordered the "blue scenic" color

Nike Running Shorts // I would live in these if I could

Gap Tencel Tie Shorts // I love the cut and tie on these shorts


Stay tuned for when I feature some easy Summer tops!



xoxo UP <3
 

Top Ten Trenches: Part 2

As I mentioned in a previous post, where I featured some more expensive trenches, here is my list of coats that are a bit more affordable (-$100).




The J Crew Factory trench has a really great, classic look about it.

 

The Calvin Klein Single Breasted Swing Trench is fun and more casual with the single-breasted buttons and swingy look. It also has a hood which is both practical and perfect for a rainy day.

 

The Calvin Klein Black Double-Breasted Belted Trench has a bit of dressier look with the dark color. You also can't beat the price at $39.99!

 

I, personally, LOVE the look of the last two coats with the trim features.  I'm definitely considering adding one to my closet; I just don't know if I would chose the International Concepts Faux-Leather-Trim Trench or the Tommy Hilfiger Piped Trench.

 

 

Happy Spring & happy shopping!

 

 

xoxo UP <3

Old Navy: New Arrivals

Old Navy has really been stepping up their game the past few seasons. And their new Spring arrivals are no exception! The pieces are so easy and look perfect for the warmer months ahead.

 

Here are a few of my favorite pieces...



 

Floppy Sun Hat // Patterned Open-Back Cami // Striped Linen-Blend Tunic // Tassel Sandals

 

Scallop-Edge Top // Patterned Shorts // Lace-Up Espadrilles

 

Patterned Pixie Chinos // Linen-Blend Shift Dress // Two-Tone Linen-Blend Top // Printed Pixie Chino Shorts

 

 

I am loving all the linen-blend pieces, soft blues, and stripes; perfect for both Spring + Summer!!

 

 

 

xoxo UP <3

 

Sales-day Saturday: Vol. 1

Happy Saturday! Here's a roundup of some great sales going on right now!

 



*image

Old Navy has 25% off your order with code "supersave." Coupon code expires 04/19.

 

Gap has 30% off your order, with code "April," on top of their (up to) 50% off Spring Sale. Coupon code expires 04/18.

 

Banana Republic has 40% off all their tops; no coupon code. Expires 04/19.

 

J. Crew has up to 75% off original prices with code "thebest." Coupon code expires 04/19.

 

J. Crew Factory has 50% off both men's & women's styles. No code needed; expires 04/20.

 

It's Kate Spade's Friends & Family Sale with an additional 25% off with code "dearest." Ends 04/19.

 

Loft is having their Friends & Family Sale with 40% off if you share your email address with them.

 

This weekend, Ann Taylor is offering 40% off with code"40foryou."

 

Brooks Brothers is having a great sale with up to 60% of clearance.

 

Boden is having a Spring Tax Sale with selected styles 20% off.

 

Happy Shopping!!

 

 

xoxo UP <3

Think Spring!

Raise your hands if you're over this Winter and cold weather.... (I'm assuming you all just raised your hands?!) :) Even though Spring doesn't seem to want to officially come out yet, I have already found some cute Spring-y things (clothes, accessories, stuff for the house...) that are putting me in a warmer mood - if only the weather would follow!



 

How cute are the 2 Kate Spade purses?! (KSNY Spring Forward Watering Can Bag + KSNY Spring Forward Flowerpot Bag)

 

I love flower-scented candles! The Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms + Nest Passion Candle (smells like peonies!!!) scents would be perfect to make your house smell like Spring.

 

I love updating my Essie collection; here is the Spring 2015 4-pack!

 

These KSNY lilac-colored earrings have me thinking Spring!

 

I am constantly buying new tumblers and I am loving this bright pink KSNY Glass & Silicon Bottle.

 

Such a pretty color green on this KSNY Spring Blooms Phone Case!

 

I have leather Jacks but I think these Jack Rogers Jelly Sandals are so fun!

 

I am itching to go on a good picnic; this basket would be perfect, it's gorgeous!

 

 

What new products are having you "think Spring?!"

 

 

xoxo UP <3

 

 

Everywhere, Scallops!

I know it's not new, but I am absolutely loving the scallop trend (#scallopsforever)! All of the new scallop dresses, tops, and shorts are really getting me excited for warmer weather and the fashions that follow. I'm definitely over my winter wardrobe right now!

Although scallops are simple, I think that they make such a statement. Scallops make a piece so polished, flirty, and feminine. I am definitely looking forward to adding a few new scallop items to my closet!

Here are a few of my favorite looks and items...

Skater Dress with Open Back // LC Scalloped Ballet Flats //

J Crew Scalloped Bikini Top // Scallop Frill Top //

Scallop Drape Back Tank (You NEED to check out the back of this tank) // KSNY Scallop iPad Air Sleeve // Scallop Shift Dress

KSNY Leather Tote // KSNY Scallop iPhone 5 Case // LP Scallop Hem Shorts

Any new scalloped items you're eyeing this season??

xoxo UP <3



Top Ten Trenches: Part 1

I love, love, LOVE trench coats! I always secretly get a little excited for all the wet, rainy weather during the Spring because I simply love wearing my trench (I also wear them when it's not raining :) ). I just think trench coats are so versatile and chic. I also feel like trenches make everything seem more polished and put-together; they immediately spruce up any outfit.

 

Today I'll share some of my favorite trench coats that are more on the costly ($100+) end. (Stay tuned for later in the week when I share some more budget-friendly [-$100] jackets!)

Burberry London Westminster Mid-Length Heritage Trench // London Fog Long Trench // Michael Kors Trench Cape // Burberry Brit Reymoore Trench // Michael Kors Faux-Leather-Trim Trench

 

 I don't think I could possibly pick a favorite of the bunch, because each coat has little details and differences that stand out to me. But of course, who doesn't love the classic look of a Burberry? I also really love the Michael Kors Trench Cape because it adds a twist to such a classic piece. The London Fog coat I added because I recently bought a long, black trench and I am in love; it really dresses up any outfit and looks great with a pair of pumps!


I'll do another post on trenches that are under $100 later on this week!


xoxo UP <3

 

 

Pajamas

Truth be told, if I could, I would definitely wear pajamas 24/7. There is nothing more comfortable or as relaxing as slipping into your favorite pair of well-worn pj's. Honestly, one of my favorites parts of the day is when I come home from work and change right into a pair of old sweats or pajama bottoms; nothing better!

I'm a bit of a pajama/loungewear addict, and can never get enough! Here are a few pj pieces that I'd love to add to my collection for the warmer weather transition...

 

 

RL Knit PJ's // Forever 21 Coffee PJ Set // CK Modal Sleep Set // J Crew Vintage Pajama Set // Old Navy Waffle-Knit PJ Leggings // J Crew Factory Sleeveless Pajama Set // PJ Salvage Print Pajamas // RL Short Sleeve Classic Notch Collar Top & Boxer Set

 

My personal favorites are the J Crew Vintage Set and the Calvin Klein Modal Set. I love the prints on the PJ Salvage and Forever 21 (can't go wrong with a coffee print!) as well. And of course, classic Ralph Lauren sets will always be a favorite.

 

 

Happy sleeping + happy shopping!!

 

 

xoxo UP <3

Seersucker Season

Okay, so I may be jumping the gun a bit with this post, but you can't blame a girl for wanting some seersucker weather! I am longing to see this pattern again, because seersucker means summer! Not to mention it's a fresh and fun pattern to play with.

I thought I would share with you some of my favorite seersucker pieces for the warmers months ahead...

LP Pink Shorts // Bikini // JCF Skirt // Navy Shorts // Navy Top // J Crew One Piece // Gap Dress // Sperry's

 

 

 

Happy shopping!!

 

 

xoxo UP <3

Roz Floral at J Crew Factory

If you haven't seen or heard by now, prepare yourselves (and your bank account), because the pattern that was so popular from J Crew last Spring has returned this season at J Crew Factory! The Roz Floral pattern is back; although with a different name, it was called Photo Floral previously, but still just as beautiful.


Here are a few of my favorite pieces..

 

Dress // Sleeveless top // Pleated shorts // Tumbler // Bikini top // Bikini bottom // Pencil skirt // Woven-panel sweater // Scarf // Loafers 

 

 

 

I definitely can't wait to add some of these to my closet! Happy shopping!!!

 

 

xoxo UP <3

Old Navy Active Wear

Active wear is one thing I can never seem to get enough of. Well, let me rephrase that: active wear is something that I (probably) have too much of, I just can't keep away from wanting more and more! I absolutely LOVE active wear and I 100% would continue to wear it even if I didn't workout or exercise. It is incredibly comfortable, easy, and I love the bright and fun color selections, especially during the hot summer months.

While I am very selective about the brand of my sneakers, - I always HAVE to go with Nike - the brand of my clothing doesn't bother me as much. Don't get me wrong, I am in love with anything and everything Nike, but if you're a young, 20-something like me, sometimes it can be pretty pricey. That's where Old Navy comes in: inexpensive, fun, high-quality, practical workout wear. What more could you ask for?

Over the past few years I have become a religious and loyal buyer of the Old Navy running shorts. These shorts are absolutely phenomenal! They are extremely lightweight, easy to throw on, don't break the bank, and come in a great variety of patterns and colors. I wear these not only while breaking a sweat, but also to run to the bank or grocery store on a hot day.

$15 Running Shorts

Another favorite of mine are the sports bras. I own quite a few - padded, regular, adjustable, you name it -  and they are really supportive, but not constricting in movement or breathing (always a plus). Again, very budget friendly and come in all different kinds, sizes, and colors.



$16.94 Sports Bra



I'll be honest, I only own a few active tops from Old Navy, but the few I have are very comfortable, affordable, and practical. If I could, I can honestly say that I would spend my entire summer living in these two pieces above; they are so easy for the hot, muggy weather.

Old Navy active wear definitely gets an A+ from me! What are some of your favorite active wear brands? I always love adding to my expanding active wear wardrobe, so I would love to hear!

xoxo UP ♡


~All of the comments, opinions, and statements in the above post are those of Upstate Prep and no compensation for this post was received.~

My Favorite Summer Shoes

Summertime is one of my favorite times of the year for so many reasons, but one reason in particular are all of the great, summery fashion choices. More specifically, shoes! (Because who doesn't love shoes?!)

Honestly, during the summer months when it comes to picking a pair of shoes I definitely go with comfort and practicality first and foremost. But, I obviously want something cute and fashionable as well. Here are a few selections that fit the bill perfectly!

A neutral-colored pair of Jack Rogers flat sandals

Palm Beach Crème/Platinum

While it's always hard to break in a new pair of Jacks, it's definitely worth the few days of discomfort. After they've been broken in, they are seriously the most comfortable shoes ever! One of these days I'll have to buy myself a fun bright-colored pair, but for now, I like neutrals because they can go with so many outfits. 

Sperry Top-Sider Boat Shoes

Bluefish Seersucker Plaid

 

I love my Sperry's so much!! I have the exact pair shown above and they are so easy and comfortable. I also wear these in the Spring and Fall as well!

 



 

Sebago Docksides



Brown Elk Docksides

 

The only reason why I started wearing Docksides is because my dad always wore them, and I wanted to be just like him. :) I'm so glad that I did though, I love my Docksides! These are a bit more fitted and not a relaxed fit like the Top-Siders, but still comfortable. Like a lot of shoes though, they did take a few days to break in.

 

 

J. Crew Critter Flip-Flops

Critter Flip-Flops in Chili Anchor

 



 These are, without a doubt, the most comfortable flip flops I have ever worn. I own the pair above and a second pair that are a navy blue with anchors. I would seriously buy a million more of these. I wore a pair once (brand new), walking for miles, and I never felt uncomfortable or spotted a single blister. These are great for casual days or when you have errands to run on a hot day. I could not recommend these more!

***And just a tip: with the exception of the flip-flops (they are from J. Crew Factory,) I bought all of the other pairs of shoes from Amazon at really great prices. It's always smart to shop around first and do your homework before a bigger purchase. Some other great websites that have great brands for less include: Famous Footwear, DSW, 6PM, Zappos, and Nordstrom; just to name a few! Happy shopping!!***

What are your favorite summer shoe picks? Comment below or send me a tweet and I would love to hear from you!!

xoxo UP <3

Pineapples Everywhere!

Have you noticed that just about every clothing store/website you turn to there's something with pineapples? I don't know about you, but I am really loving this pineapple craze. Even if it is just a fad, I think it's a great one. I decided to visit my "go to" shopping website - J. Crew Factory - and show you all some of my personal favorite pineapple pieces! (Plus J. Crew Factory is having an awesome sale right now.)
 

Pineapple iPhone 5 Case
 

How cute is this phone case?! It definitely makes me wish I had an iPhone instead of a Samsung Galaxy. And plus it's on sale for $14.50. A definite buy!

 

 

Pineapple Cami Dress
 

This is, without a doubt, my favorite pineapple-themed item. I can't get over how cute it is, and would love to add it to my closest, ASAP! Get it while you can, it's currently $41.50.

 

Critter Flip-Flops
 

These flip-flops are insanely comfortable; I own two pairs! I have yet to add the pineapple print to my collection though. They're currently $14.50.

 

 

5" Pineapple Chino Shorts
 

I love J. Crew's chino shorts, they're so comfortable! This cute pineapple-printed pair is currently $27.

 

Pineapple-Printed Mini Skirt
 

I love the printed mini skirts, they are the perfect length and so cute! Get the pineapple print for $29.50.

 

Critter Socks
 

Even the socks have pineapples!! $3.50 a pair.

 

Pineapple Tunic
 

This is the perfect swimsuit cover-up: lightweight and pineapples! On sale now for $32.

 

Pineapple Beach Towel
 

I love getting new beach towels with fun designs and prints. Since pineapples seem to be the theme of the summer, why not go with this one for $16.50?

 

Pineapple Sweater

The Charley printed sweaters are so lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for a breezy summer day. This pineapple print is currently $29.50!

 

Gold Pineapple Tee

Tee shirts are essential for these warm months, and I love the gold foil print. Currently $21.

 

Pineapple Pocket Tee

Another great tee for the summer! Get this look for $19.50.

 

 

 

Happy pineapples and happy shopping!!

 

 

xoxo UP <3

J. Crew Factory Sale!

If you haven't heard by now, J. Crew Factory has been having a super great sale; 40%-60% off everything, online and in stores. So great!! Unfortunately I'm on a little bit of a spending freeze (read more here, more specifically, #18,) but I figured I could at least share a few of my very favorite pieces with you... :)



5" Sailboat Chino Shorts

I love J. Crew's chino shorts, they make such an easy and comfortable outfit. Add sailboats to the mix and I am in love! These beauties are currently $27.00 ($54.50 originally).

 


Circle-Neck Emerald Pool Dress

 

You NEED to see the back of this gorgeous dress in order to appreciate it fully (click the caption above for the link!) And I am currently obsessed with any piece in this bright and fun color, "emerald pool." This is currently $48.50; it was originally priced at $98.



 

Linen Sleeveless Shirtdress

 

I don't know if it's because of the simplicity or style or both, but I absolutely adore this dress! I think it looks so effortless, but really pretty and ideal for a hot day. It was originally priced at $89.50, but you can currently purchase it for $35.50. Deal!

 

Banana Tank

This is just such a fun, summery tank top. I love the fashions with fruits for this summer. It's yours for $21, down from $36.50.

 

Scalloped Shift Dress

I love this dress because it is so versatile, yet simple! Plus I think scallops are super cute. This is classy enough to wear to work, formal enough for a wedding, or, thanks to the scallops, cute enough for a summer brunch or outing with the girls.

 

Linen Mini Skirt

I have been eyeing this skirt for a long time now. I think it would be really useful in any wardrobe. It's simple cute, summery, and can be dressed up or down for a more casual look. Right now it's only $32, compared to $64.50.

 

Short-Sleeve Anchor Sweatshirt

 

I think the idea of a short-sleeved sweatshirt is really neat. Add that with the anchor print and I am all there! This one goes for $32, previously $64.50.


Hopefully you can find some favorites as well! Happy shopping!!

xoxo UP <3