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
 

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



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

Seasonal Sensations: Sweet Summertime

Yaaay! As of last weekend, Summer is officially HERE! There are so many great things about this time of year, and I am looking forward to each thing. :) Here are some of my favorites...

Foods-

Corn on the cob, watermelon, salt potatoes (it's a Central NY thing), ANY kind of food on the grill, coneys (again, a CNY thing), blueberries, SEAFOOD, strawberries, iced coffee (good all-year-round), soft-serve ice cream. The list could go on but honestly, my mouth is watering!

Lobster + clam bake (so good!)

Clothing-

JACKS!, Lilly prints, nautical stripes, big sun hats, navy and red, anchors, maxi dresses, boat shoes, bright colors, cute bathing suits, nautical theme, baseball caps. I, like many others, love the nautical summer-themed items, and I can never get enough of them during the (few) summer months!

Lilly, Jacks, + J. Crew sunnies

Randoms-

Seeing fireworks (my favorite), picnics, stargazing, tenting, state parks, the ocean, lighthouses (my other fav), flowers, salty air and sand, random thunderstorms, my Birthday (hehe), the French braids I constantly wear to try to tame or control my frizzy mane, boating. Again, I could go on and on!

Lovely peonies

What are some of your "seasonal sensations" to add to the list? I would love to read about your favorite summertime activities, clothes, and foods, or any other things - and maybe even add some to my summer favorites list! Comment below, email me (xoxoupstateprep@gmail.com), or send me a tweet (www.twitter.com/upstate_prep) and I would really enjoy hearing from you.

xoxo UP ♡


2014 Summer Bucket List ☆

With summer officially arriving THIS weekend (yay) I thought now would be the perfect time to create a summer bucket list! I've always wanted to make one, but I'm usually busier over the summer, however I am determined to cross off some things on this list!! 

1) Make homemade ice cream (yum!)

2) Make multiple trips to the farmer's market (this is great because not only are you supporting local people/businesses, but it's also fresh and healthy food from a known source.)

3) Go stargazing. 

4) Weekly polo matches (there are weekly polo matches, during the summer, in a town near to where I live.)

5) Homemade cocktail night with friends around the bonfire.

6) Picnic as often as possible.

7) Visit as many lighthouses as possible (I have an odd fascination with lighthouses.)

8) Play outside in a rainstorm.

9) Send up paper lanterns (with a wish, of course) into the sky.

10) Read more books!!

11) Face a personal fear (I have yet to pick one!)

12) Volunteer at or with something that resonates with you personally.

13) Go to the drive-in movies.

14) Outdoor movie night/sleep in tents/bonfire & s'mores. (This one might be my favorite!)

15) Get up early and watch the sunrise.

Those are most of the things on my list, and I really hope I can get a majority of them crossed off! What are some of the things on your summer bucket list?  They can be simple little things, or maybe even a big trip or vacation! Leave a comment or tweet (www.twitter.com/upstate_prep) me more ideas or what your plans are for the summer months, I'd love to read them!!

xoxo UP ♡

Summer Reading List (Help!)

Hi all, I need your help!! I generally have more opportunities to read during the summer, and I would LOVE to take advantage of that as the warmer weather approaches. This is where you come in. :) If you've read a great book recently or have a personal favorite, comment, email, or send me a tweet and tell me what I should read and why. I would really appreciate it!

Also, I'm sure you've all either heard about or read The Fault in Our Stars, and I would love to read your opinions on it and if I should add that one to the list for the summer as well. Thanks so much! 

xoxo UP ♡

(Twitter: twitter.com/upstate_prep, email xoxoupstateprep@gmail.com, or comment below!!)