Complete the Pleats

Pleats have always been a tricky style for me. They usually bring to mind the unfortunate looking fully pleated jean mini-skirts that were popular during my middle school days. Ever since then I've tried to stay away from them in all forms, but lately pleats have been popping up on my radar in a surprisingly chic way.

Unlike the big, boxy pleats of the past these micro pleats lend an air of whimsy to maxi skirts and sleek dresses. I think they're just perfect for a summer day out on the town or an evening get together with friends. Usually I would try to stay away from long items of clothing during the warm summer months, but these pieces are perfectly light and breezy. Take a look-

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How would you style a pleated skirt or dress? Do you think this style should stay in the past? Can't wait to hear! xoxo

-Lanie W.

Shake Ya Pom-Poms

Gosh, I am just loving all of the fun, whimsical trends that are popping up this spring! I've posted about my obsessions with embroidering, swingy shorts, and tropical prints, but lately I can't stop looking up items with pom-pom trim! Scarves, hats, shorts, bags, tops, dresses; I love it all!

Pom-poms add such a carefree, fun vibe to any outfit and remind me of sombreros and vacations in Mexico! Take a look at some pretty pom inspiration-

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Love love love. How would you incorporate pom-poms into your style? Can't wait to hear!

-Lanie W.

Pretty Proportions

When wearing a skirt and top my initial instinct is to keep the top tucked in. However, lately I've been loving the more boxy look of leaving the top untucked and layering it over a skirt. As a petite person I'm usually told to keep everything fitted and tailored so I'm not drowning in fabric, but breaking this rule a bit to change things up feels really fresh and fun.

The petite style princess Olivia Palermo has this look down pat. I am seriously beyond obsessed with her style and have blogged about her multiple times. She always manages to look completely perfect no matter the occasion. Here's some inspiration of OP and a few other ladies rocking this unique style-

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I can't wait to try this look out for myself! How do y'all feel about changing up proportions? Yay or nay? Happy Monday!

-Lanie W.

Shop Savvy

I've always loved shopping. As the only girl, shopping always meant spending time with my mom and having girly, indulgent fun without my brothers or dad #noboysallowed. Nowadays the majority of my shopping is done online.

I used to be on countless email lists and would get daily alerts of current 'deals' happening at my favorite stores. However, thanks to Unroll Me I've narrowed my store emails down to my top favorites. In the blog world many ladies will dedicate entire posts to whatever 'sale' is happening that day, week, etc. Yet, are these sales really saving you that much money?

One thing that amuses me about online shopping is the different ways they try to lure you in. For instance, many stores will put a time limit on their sales which gives you a sense of urgency to purchase something before the 'sale' goes away. I know many people who have fallen into this retail trap. However, if you follow these sales you'll notice an obvious pattern.

This is where Raise.com comes in. This new gift card market place explains that they "want to help you actually save money, rather than just feel like you're saving it." Raise details the transparency of various internet shopping 'deals' in this eye-opening post.

My favorite stores like Gap, Old Navy, and J. Crew Factory almost always offer at least 20% off, and many give a student discount of 15% which is awesome if you're a broke college kid like me. Their constant promotions make it a bit ridiculous to buy something full price these days. 

Instead of falling into the retail rabbit hole Raise allows you to sell unused or unwanted gift cards and buy others at a discounted rate. Sounds pretty great to me! Go check out Raise.com and start (really) saving! Happy shopping!

-Lanie W.