Carlita's Closet

Topshop Love

2017-09-15T09:36:00.000-04:00

TGIF! Boy I am so ready for this weekend to celebrate friend's birthdays and go to the Weeknd concert in Philly! Fall is definitely rolling in so the boots are coming out. These Jeffrey Campbell Joe Lace Up boots have been a staple in fall winter wardrobe for 5 seasons now! They are worth being resoled because they have yet to go out of style. They are also still available at Free People in tons of other colors. This adorable little dress I scoop up from Topshop at Nordstrom, buy it here for only $48!! This bomber jacket is no longer available but was a steal I found at the Nordstrom Rack from Free People. Have an amazing weekend!!!

His & Her's Going Out Look

2017-09-13T09:40:00.000-04:00

You may find this as a surprise but for a twenty-three year old I don't love going out all that much but boy do I love to get dressed for it! I don't know if I got my fill of going out growing up in a college town or if I'm just more content now with Netflix and chilling with the dog, & Spencer for a night in. On the rare occasion we do go out on the weekend but have majorly scaled back since we want to save up for a house!

In the fall it's so hard to get the right balance of sleeves and jeans but still looking cute and not wanting to let go of the beautiful summer months we just enjoyed. We all know it's cold outside and then burning hot inside a bar, not a fun struggle. That is why I absolutely adore this Free People scoop back seamless top! I own it in multiple colors cause it is the perfect top for fall and winter going out. They made it into a bodysuit this year but still perfect for this look and available for only $58, buy here. My dark wash skinnies are also from Free People still available for $78, buy here. Now let me apologize in advance for how much you are going to see these Stuart Weitzman Elevated over the knee boot in my blog this coming winter. I am going to live in these boots they are so comfortable and were the most gracious gift from my boss. They were sold out during the Nordstrom Anniversary sale but recently became available again through Nordstrom, link here.

I wanted to share a men's going out look too because it's something I've never done before on Carlita's Closet! I knew we were good together when I found out he likes to dress up as much as I do. In this post his shirt is 7 Diamonds, burgundy pants Bonobos, and the boots are Magnanni. The styles were all purchased at Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack, but are all sold out. Will find links to like items this week!

Similar Men's Boot but plain style available at Nordstrom:

Magnanni Marcelo Boot- 30% off currently! $265

Chilly Day Vibes

2017-09-11T08:54:00.000-04:00

Short and sweet on this Monday morning, because I am road tripping today back home to visit my family! See you in a few hours State College!! This fall weather is slowly rolling in and let me tell you I am not ready to switch out my spring/summer wardrobe yet. Transitional season are so rough because you must get in your fill of wearing your favorites before the season ends. These Jeffrey Campbell Coors booties are something I live in for working in the spring and summer. These printed wide leg pants are an old sale pair of ASTR from Nordstrom. My cute white blouse is from Topshop this particular one is sold out but shop this Scallop edge top now. For a similar look also shop these wide leg striped Band of Gypsies pant from Nordstrom today.

Delaware River Tubing!

2017-09-10T20:47:00.001-04:00

Adventure awaits on the Delaware River! This was the absolute perfect way (in my eyes) to spend Memorial Day. I heard about this stretch of the river from a Facebook video from the Thrillist and I just knew I had to go. It was definitely one of the last warm enough days of the season to enjoy it too, a perfect 85 degree day. We chose to go on the New Jersey side of the river with the Delaware River Tubing company in Frenchtown, New Jersey. You can rent a tube, kayak or canoe for your adventure down the river. It was $50 a person for our double tube which also included lunch from the Famous River Hotdog Man and two free passes for next year. The hotdogs weren't that amazing but let me tell you they were the perfect break through your 4 hours of tubing. I did risk it and take my iPhone, obviously by the photos above, but did protect it with a plastic baggie. Next year Spencer and I will definitely save a few bucks and just buy some tubes ourselves! Just have to bring two cars, one for your drop off point and one for pick up a few miles down. We saw plenty of good spots in Bucks County on the PA side to park but you want to float down the river on the New Jersey side because it is deeper!

Summer Days Almost Gone

2017-09-07T21:15:00.002-04:00

Getting in my last fill of wearing shorts and open toe shoes before fall really hits! I was loving the neutral tones this day, a beautiful 78 degree September afternoon. I have practically lived in these Jeffrey Campbell heels since last summer and they will continue to be a staple in my spring/summer wardrobe because they go with everything. I own them in black too, they're an excellent investment and on sale at Nordstrom currently! These shorts are a brand called Ocean Drive that I found at Metro in State College which is one of my favorite little boutiques up at PSU. My top is from Ann Taylor last spring and has sold out, but you can shop a similar tank on sale here! I always get compliments when I wear this top whether it is styled to work, going out to dinner, or a simple day off. Last but certainly not least score this amazing bag on sale at Henri Bendel today! Keeping it short and sweet today!

xoxo

On Wednesdays We Wear Pink

2017-09-06T09:30:00.002-04:00

Happy hump day to an already short week thanks to Labor Day! I hope you all got to do something fun with your extra day off, my adventure will be hitting the blog at the end of the week so stay tuned!!

Although summer is trying to escape us there are still some sultry days in September that make it very hard to dress. There are days that are so chilly in the morning but by noon it's 85 out again, how are we supposed to dress appropriately for both? Layers will forever be the answer here in PA. This little work outfit I put together was not complete without a denim jacket (not pictured because I left it at work, silly me). These pieces are from LOFT when I worked there in college but are still in style shockingly enough. LOFT and Ann Taylor are some of the only stores that still have a semi-trendy petite department.

It is extremely difficult for a petite woman of my size to find business pieces that fit properly! One thing I am learning working with men is it is worth it to get something tailored. I would have never thought about going to a tailor or seamstress in college but now that I am out and buying some quality pieces I want to have for a few years, they might as well fit right!

Check out some of my favorite current petite pieces available at LOFT and ANN TAYLOR:

Floral Print Blouse- $59.50

Windowpane Legging- $59.50

Cold Shoulder Merino Wool Sweater- $79.50

Professional Jogger Pant- $79

Hiking Glen Onoko Falls- Jim Thorpe, PA

2017-09-05T12:16:00.000-04:00

Take a right when you see this sign and head under the railroad tracks!

No joke, this is a difficult hike but can be completed by small dogs and children with the proper foot wear and precautions.

We took the longer way to the top of the falls the Red trail but we thought it was a much better way up than the orange.

Leaves are slowly starting to change!

Took us 45 minutes to get to this point.

Top of the falls!

Mia was very adventurous on her first real hike!

Even took a dip thanks to daddy!

Ferns growing under the falls.

Playing with long exposure on the camera.

Hiking attire brought to you by Keens & Patagonia.

Needed a hand at multiple points down the Orange trail. Also went on a afternoon it had rained earlier so rocks were very slippery!

Thank goodness for Spencer, there to save the day for Mia and myself.

Time to hike- 2 hours 10 minutes (plenty of photo taking time obviously)

Directions- followed the address off of Yelp and used blogs to find closest parking to falls trails.

Parking- Right above wooden bridge by the D + L Lehigh Valley trail in Jim Thorpe.

Suggested Trail Color to follow- Red, It is a longer hike up to the top of the falls but much less strenuous than the orange trail. We came down the orange which we preferred, couldn't imagine going up some parts with our little Mia!

We hiked Glen Onoko Falls on an overcast day in the beginning of September, which was perfect because it wasn't humid, too hot, or too cold yet. There were a few rain drops on our drive to the falls and as we were leaving but nothing we minded being out in.

Feels like fall

2017-09-03T18:45:00.002-04:00

Well September rolled through and brought the chilly fall mornings & evenings with it! This was my look for the first of September. I just fell in love with this tie neck blouse as soon as I saw it at Free People in the King of Prussia store. I had a gift card so naturally it had to be mine! It comes in an adorable navy combination as well, shop here. Threw on my favorite pair of dark wash skinnies that fit my petite frame so well. No shocker they are also from Free People, and on sale for $49.95! These wedges are oldies but goodies from Target and have surprisingly lasted for seasons. My rings are mixture of finds from the shore, Apple Tree Boutique in State College, and my favorite is my Herkimer diamond my step dad made me.

Have a great Labor Day tomorrow!

xoxo

Shine On You Crazy Diamond

2017-08-30T10:02:00.000-04:00

It was one of those days off yesterday that just felt more than needed and greatly appreciated. This post is inspired by my rainy day off look yesterday & inspired by one of my favorite Pink Floyd songs, "Shine on you crazy diamond". I am in love with these amazing joggers from Sincerely Jules collection, available at Nordstrom. The olive color, thick drawstrings, and stitching/zipper detail give them the perfect edge over just any joggers. Threw on an oldie but goodie tee from Urban Outfitters and I was ready to run errands! Find plenty of comfy band tees like this on at Urban here. As most of you know I am not a huge sneaker person but I have to say these UGG's may have converted me otherwise. The fold over top with the light grey/baby pink combination make them match with practically everything.

Links above to all merchandise! Available at Shopbop, Nordstrom, Sincerely Jules Shop, UGG, and Urban Outfitters!

I'm back!

2017-08-29T14:10:00.000-04:00

Well it's only been two years but wow have they flown by. Life as a "adult" is not all it's cracked up to be when you're 12 dreaming about the day you'll be able to drive and make all your own decisions. Message to all the teens and college girls out there reading this blog LIVE IT UP, enjoy not having any responsibilities but doing homework & showing up to class, trust me it's not that hard. Also it is quite ironic my last post was about change, still the only thing that is constant in life. One of the keys to being being a little less stress free as an adult is embracing the change that is thrown at you in life whether you're ready for it or not.

Today's post is a welcome back to Carlita's Closet! I can't wait to share the beautiful new finds I've gathered in my closet over the last two years. It's also a re-awakening in my passion for fashion, never let the hectic-ness of life take away what you love most. Above's look was a summer chic day I got to spend at the Centre County Grange Fair with my family and boyfriend! Highlight of my summer was being able to come home and enjoy this family tradition I've been a part of since I can remember.

It was one of those dog days of summer in August that was so hot you had to be in something breathable. These adorable shorts are from a shop in New Hope, PA called Three Cranes Gallery. Go in and visit Bryan any time he's a really cool guy that will tell you how he hand selects all the fabrics from Thailand, they are so soft!! My tank is from the Savvy Department at Nordstrom last summer, find a similar one here. I am wearing two different barrettes; one is the brami from Free People and the other is by this brand Xirena (they have some unique bralettes check them out!). My sneakers are a suede high top van that I got in Florida a few years ago, perfect for casual looks, shop a similar pair here.

If there's anything you want to see featured on the blog coming up please let me know!! I am so happy to be back writing!!! Have a happy Tuesday everyone!

Embrace Change

2015-12-02T19:00:00.000-05:00

I've definitely said this once before but I will say it again embrace change because it is the only thing that is constant in life. Especially in a world that's so fast pace and constantly changing, why not embrace it and make the most of these things it will just make your every day more enjoyable. Recently I went through a world wind in my life not being exactly sure what I wanted to do or which direct I wanted to go in professionally. I am so happy to say I have found a position that seems like it was made for me as the Personal Stylist Coordinator back at Nordstrom. I love multi tasking and constantly have something new to take care of and face at work, which is exactly what this position has to offer. For my first day I wore this Free People dress with an Urban Renewal Lacoste grandpa sweater. With one of my favorite pair of Stuart Weitzman boots I was ready to conquer the world. Never be afraid to change for doing something better for yourself, even if you don't know how others will react sometimes you need to listen to yourself the most.

Grateful

2015-11-24T19:04:00.000-05:00

Well it was another great year with it's up and down's of course but there is always so much in life to be grateful for. As Thanksgiving is just two days away I was definitely reflecting on the last year and many things I am thankful for. I learned so much about myself this year and it feels amazing to be proud of myself and the successful young woman I have become. I am so grateful for the experiences and the people I have met down here in Philadelphia, it has definitely become my home. I am even more grateful for realizing which friends from high school and college are real friends who keep in touch and get the rare chance to all reunite in one place a year. My personal life and professional life are definitely things I am thankful for because I have finally found a nice balance between fun and work. Getting a life for myself and not being only focused on work made me so much happier this year and I have to say a great deal of that is do to my boyfriend. Growing up you realize how much the holidays actually matter about who you are with and not what you are getting or going to eat. Little things become so much more important and it's a beautiful thing when you start to realize this. Last but not least I am so thankful I finally turned 21 this year and can

For Love & Lemons

2015-11-18T20:02:00.000-05:00

Sometimes you just want to get dressed up for no reason, or at least I experience that feeling all the time. All black everything always has a way of making you feel sleek too. I am obsessed with this For Love and Lemons dress but don't get to wear it as much as I'd like because it is so fancy. But I liked how I was able to tone it down by throwing this cute LOFT sweater over top that was only $22 on sale. Matched with my Stuart Weitzman Highway boots, a staple to my winter wardrobe I love how they add sophistication to any outfit.

Pleat Details

2015-11-16T19:01:00.001-05:00

Well all I can say about this fall is the actual fall weather has been coming and going. I've enjoyed breaking out a few of my sweaters on these chilly days like this alpaca sweater from Peru. It is so warm and soft it is one of my favorite sweaters. I love the detail in this handmade garment, you can feel the quality of it when you wear it. Going off those details I matched it with this pleated midi skirt from Forever21 and my Frye Patty boots. My necklace is from the St. Thomas butterfly farm and is a real butterfly wing, added as my pop for the look.

Time for Layers

2015-11-11T19:28:00.001-05:00

Well the official days of fall are upon us and those chilly frost bitten mornings of warming up our cars are here. I am reluctant to admit it but the temperatures have definitely taken a fall this week back to the typical November weather we could expect from Pennsylvania. Just the right temperature that it gets a little warm when you are in the sun but you need that extra top layer for when you are in the shade and breeze.

I went with a relaxed look for a day off of running errands and going to see the Long Island Medium, Theresa Caputo, live with my Mom. She came to visit on Monday and we got the opportunity to go see Theresa speak at the Santander Arena in Reading, PA. It was such an amazing experience to see her do her readings live.

These green cargo skinny jeans are one of my favorite pair of designer denim, they are Rich and Skinny. I love the military look they give and how I can make it more feminine with what I pair it with. My chambray button up and wool vest are from LOFT essential pieces for the fall/winter season. My t-shirt is Brandy Melville and is so soft I love all of her tops. Of course the look is topped off with my favorite Jeffery Campbell Joe Lace Up boots. I have to say the energy of this week renewed my spirits in more ways than I could've ever imagined. I am ready for the new challenges life has to bring and beginning new opportunities.

Boyfriend Jeans and Comfy Sweaters

2015-11-11T18:50:00.001-05:00

Simple but put together, this is how I like to feel on my days off whether I'm just taking a stroll down Main Street in manayunk or running errands. I can't stand leaving the house in my sweats even if it is my day off even though it happens sometimes. I feel so much better about myself and the productivity of the day when I take the time to invest in myself for a little. It's important to make time for the little things in your day that make a difference to you! If you don't do this than the little stresses of everyday life can build up to be bigger problems than they were meant to be. It's good to be able to clear the mind and start the day off the way you'd like to get it started. My boyfriend jeans by KUT from the Kloth are a favorite throw on and go pair of jeans. They look great with a t-shirt or sweater. I also like that they are de-stressed but not over done. This sweater I scored on sale from Free People last year and is still one of my favorite transitional sweaters for fall to winter. I'm wearing a Free People black lace bra underneath because what's the fun if you can't show it off a little. I don't know about the rest of you but I am so excited for the weekend! TGIF!

Feels like fall

2015-11-03T21:03:00.002-05:00

Well it sure has been some unusual weather out with the drastic changes of 20 degree differences in one day but I will take as many warm fall afternoons as I can get before the winter comes. Something makes me so happy about feeling the sun shining on my face and the warm fall air. This look was inspired by the latest Free People catalog and the Eastern Star trend. This brand just speaks to so much more than just their clothing but a true lifestyle of women. One reason I will continue being loyal to this brand no matter the outrageous prices for some of their items. The quality is well worth it for most of their items and they are so timeless they don't go out of style from season to season. This sweater is a Free People piece if you couldn't guess paired with a dark wash skinny jean. The boots are Frye they are one of the most comfortable fall boots I own. Topped off with some of my favorite turquoise and jewels to pull the blue hues all together.

Warm Days Soak Them Up

2015-10-24T13:10:00.001-04:00

These last few afternoons have felt so delightful outside you can't help but be happy to see that the sun is shining and it actually feels warm out. It's exciting when your into fall but you can still peel off layers because I know this won't last for much longer. I had fun playing with neutrals on this look, a nice fall outfit but appropriate for a 70 degree afternoon out. I am getting so excited for Halloween next week. I got to carve a pumpkin this week at my moms house when I went to visit to give a speech at my old university South Hills. It was a great time but now back to the city life to keep on keeping on.

Trend: Matching Sets

2015-10-12T19:32:00.000-04:00

I love a good matching set, this brick color two piece set is from Miss Guided. Together it's perfect for a night out, or separately the crop top goes with skinny jeans and the pencil skirt an over sized sweater. I also adore this piece for the fall season because of the color. I had so much fun with the shadows in this setting. This look definitely has me in the mood to go out dancing this weekend. Keeping it short and sweet today, happy Monday!

Bohemian Vibes

2015-09-22T20:00:00.000-04:00

I will always be a hippie at heart no matter, I can be so professional and put together for work but hell the weekend comes around and I am back to my boho ways. This is a simple yet chic going out look for any casual occasions. Whether it is just a simple night out to dinner on a date or dancing & drinks with the girls I love the simplicity of this look with the flare of bohemian influence. I am also trying to enjoy the rest of this warm weather we will be having until the true fall hits and it is time for sweaters and boots. This summer was so enjoyable I just never wanted it to end but do realize it is time to shack up for fall and winter. I love how my gem stone handmade necklace by my mother really makes the blues on this shirt pop. I also love how the high waist maxi and crop top really accentuate the waist. These items are all oldies but goodies but you can find similar items available on sale today at Ann Taylor LOFT and Pac Sun.

All Black Everything

2015-09-19T11:33:00.000-04:00

All black everything is always a sleek go to look that is appropriate for the office and a fun night for drinks with the girls after work. Excuse the little bit of mess in my room but I wanted to take a slightly different angle than I am used to. I can't wait to start scouting some locations for fun fall shoots with the leaves starting to change already. Anyways this black Nicole Miller dress is one of my favorites for work, sophisticated with the right touch of sexy. Threw that with a classic blazer from LOFT gave me the edge I needed to take on the day. Felt like being fancy today as well with the YSL tributes to complete the whole look.

Floral Pants

2015-09-15T20:38:00.000-04:00

So you will be seeing a lot more of business professional looks for women in their twenties on my blog from now on with my new position I've recently taken on. It is so different to be in a office setting vs. in retail but I am loving the experience so far! I get to learn about a new part of myself and develop my career in a professional manner than just going from working job to job. Something I believe that will help me prepare for my future and whatever other opportunities lie ahead for me.

I hate the stupid fashion rule you can't wear white after labor day, who says! I love wearing white through out the fall and winter season and not just creams and winter whites. These floral pants are from Topshop and our one of my favorite go to work pants because they're so professional but still fun with the bold print. Paired with a black blouse by BCBG and my favorite Jeffery Campbell heels! I have to say I love how the business professional attire has changed in the work world from the last ten to five years, no longer are matching suits required, and navy, black & charcoal are not your only color choices ladies!!

Neutral Colors for Fall

2015-09-14T19:58:00.000-04:00

Yes I said the words, fall because that is what is actually starting to feel like and look like outside. Neutral colors are going to be a huge trend this fall and muted colors like mustard. I adore this tie waist dress by LOFT for a go to work look. Easy, simple, and looking put together in one step in the morning is all that I can ask for. Especially for the start of a week I need simplicity to help me get going. Paired with one of my favorite peep toe shoes by Jeffery Campbell I was ready for a day in the office.

DIY Moon Crest Dream Catcher

2015-09-10T20:14:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I need to take a break from fashion and share something completely unrelated. Currently I am in a transitional period in my life and career path so I apologize for my inconsistency with my posts lately but I assure you Carlita's Closet is here to stay. I will be getting back into the blogging grind as soon as time allows, or better yet as soon as I continue to make time for this passion of mine.

Today I wanted to share some DIY ways to really spruce up your apartment, dorm room, or bedroom. My first DIY project up top is moon crest dream catcher, made out of some vine, hemp string, feathers, and wood. All of the materials besides the hemp string are things I found in the woods on a walk. Creating the moon crest shape with the vine was the hardest part of the whole process, I tied it together with some hemp once I got the shape I desired. Then I started the process of looping the hemp string into a dream catcher before adding the wood to the bottom to hang my feathers off of. The other crafts include painting on rocks, creating a crystal grid for healing and grounding, and hanging some antlers I found for a new necklace holder. What are your favorite DIY apartment projects??

Business Professional with a Modern Twist

2015-09-05T16:41:00.000-04:00

Something all of us young twenty year old's need to learn as we get ready to enter the professional world, or for some of us who recently have! Being business professional has changed a lot from what it was viewed at 5-10 years ago and gives women a lot more freedom this day in age. One thing I am a huge fan of is that suits do not have to match necessarily, mix and match is a way to get the most out of a few great pieces. Being so petite it is very hard for me to find professional work clothes at an affordable price but I usually have luck at ANN Taylor LOFT. The look above is something that is office appropriate but not something I would wear on an interview. The top would be more plain if I was just going in for an interview.