La Petite Fashionista

I Heart Valentine's Day

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 19:11:00 +0000

Ever since I was a little kid, I've always loved hearts. I used to (and admittedly still sometimes do) sign my name with a big heart next to it. Thus, Valentine's Day is one of my favorite holidays because It's an excuse to wear heart sweaters, eat chocolate, and spend time with the people you love. Though I strongly believe that should be more than once a year!

Single or taken, let the day be a time to indulge a little. That heart shaped whoopie pie heart pan would make amazing goodies to hand out to friends or a boyfriend!

What's your favorite thing about Valentine's Day?

xoxo, lauren

Pretty, Pretty Print-cess

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:52:00 +0000

I stumbled upon Australian clothing line, Gorman and am seriously obsessed with all the print and pattern and color in the line. I'd say almost every single day i'm wearing something printed; it's sort of my thing. Even our print designer at my company has noticed, always commenting on what my print of the day is. I'm also seriously digging those strappy sandals with socks.

I've also compiled what I think will be trends in print & pattern for Spring '12! It's a nice step away from the traditional floral prints; a bit more futuristic, scientific, and mathematical looking.

Which spring 12 print trend is your favorite? I'm partial to chevron, but I'm liking the geometric prints too!

xoxo, lauren

Try this Trend: Oversized Watches

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 03:03:00 +0000

WatchesOnNet.com asked me to give my top picks for the Michele watch collection. As you all know I have a thing for oversized watches and a wrist full of accessories in general. I'm in love with the statement watch styles below!

I love the look of a big watch paired with lots of bracelets, cocktail rings, and a statement bag. Can you say arm party? It's definitely one of the most versatile accessories that you can pair with everything from a t-shirt to cocktail dress. Investing in a nice watch will never go out of style!

Do you have an oversized watch that you wear?

xoxo, lauren

Snapshots from SLC

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 02:06:00 +0000

I just got back from a few days in Salt Lake City for the Outdoor Retailer trade show. The Rockies are such a beautiful backdrop to the city and I saw tons of great trends for the outdoor industry. I just wanted to share a few snapshots from my trip

I splurged on a pair of Bonfire Ski Pants (I love the tailored & girly fit!) & a pair of polka dot Smith goggles that match my Roxy Ski Jacket! Though, after seeing so many bright colors on the slopes, my next purchase will be a bold ski jacket!

Colorful snowboards at Deer Valley Ski Resort

Gorgeous ski resorts!

Definitely need a splash of signature color in my ski look!

Loving these navajo print ski hats from Chaos!

This girl had on the coolest transparent/neon jacket

Busy day at the ski resort!

A picture perfect end to an epic trip!

I came home to lots of snow, I can't wait to try out my new snowpants on my first sled ride!

xoxo, lauren

Looking Cool & Staying Warm

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:09:00 +0000

I'm leaving tomorrow for a trip for work, to the mountains, to do some trend research (dream job, i told you)! I'm excited and trying to figure out what to pack for a few days in the high altitudes and snowy scenery. I've always been fascinated by the ski bunnies of Aspen and Vail. (I mean, have you seen Aerin Lauder's beautiful ski chalet home?!).

These vintage photos from lifestyle photographer, Slim Aarons, perfectly depict sleepy mountain towns and the stylish ski bunnies that inhabit them:

When it comes to cold weather, I'm not one to sacrifice style for warmth. I'd like to think it's possible to have both! (Fleece lined leggings have become my new best friend in recent weeks!)

What do you like to layer on when the temperatures dip to feel stylish and warm?

xoxo, lauren

Inspired Interiors

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 19:01:00 +0000

With my one year anniversary of moving to Wisconsin and starting my job, I'm feeling the need to refresh the decor in my bachelorette pad. All the snow & chilly weather makes me want to brighten up my living room. So I've been on the hunt for some bright prints, and colors to give things a new feel, as well as a new way to arrange my furniture.

I'm loving Jonathan Adler's Happy Chic Colors book; it's full of bright, colorful and inspiring interiors!

What's your favorite way to give your home a quick makeover?

xoxo, lauren

Stylish Words of Wisdom

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 20:18:00 +0000

The last couple days I've been feeling inspired by fun quotes, fashion editorials & images. So, I've combined some of my favorites to create the cute graphics below! I'm thinking about printing some of them & putting them on my walls. I particularly like the life mantras I wrote on the Audrey Hepburn images.

What's your favorite words to live by?

xoxo, lauren

L.P.F.'s Fave Finds

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 06:17:00 +0000

Between Christmas and my latest thrifting adventures, I've accumulated some fun new finds lately. Whether it's coffee table books to add into my collection or a J. Crew-esque statement necklace that I scored for a dollar, I've had no shortage of chic treasures lately.

I absolutely LOVE the below quote from my Lilly Pulitzer coffee table book; so perfect for me!

Below are a few of my latest finds. I definitely need to get back into my thrifting; it's the best source of inspiration and home decor on the cheap!

Festive Kate Spade Coasters; perfect for entertaining!

A peachy keen statement necklace for only $1!

Thrifted gold rimmed china for festive occasions; it's just asking for a dinner party to be thrown!

A vintage Guide to Paris thrifting find , pretty earrings & Jonathan Adler's Happy Chic Colors book

My monogrammed cardigan that I can't get enough of

Seriously loving this chevron storage bin from Target which is helping me get organized!

Thrifted teal vase, Capri Blue Candle & Antler from the boyfriend's house in the country

Do you ever go thrifting? If so, what's the best thing you've ever scored?

xoxo, lauren

L.P.F. DIY: Colorful & Open Cabinets

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 02:38:00 +0000

Feeling inspired by pinterest images, I woke up this morning feeling extra ambitious about re-designing my kitchen. So, I bought a set of Target watercolor floral dishes to put on display, scored some gold rimmed china for special occasions at the thrift store and added yellow gingham fabric as an extra touch. I of course added in some wine glasses and mason jars to make it more me.

I used my new Lilly Pulitzer: Guide to Entertaining for inspiration. I really like how the end result turned out. The cabinets turned out so open, colorful and perfect for making my kitchen more feng shui. Plus, it forces me to keep my shelves organized.

These are some other wonderful open cabinetry inspiration that I loved.

Would you ever take off your cabinet doors for a more open and organized kitchen?

xoxo, lauren

Try this Trend: Tortoiseshell & Camel

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:26:00 +0000

When I was home for the holidays, my sister scheduled me a much needed hair appointment. No excuses she said, I needed to take some time for taking care of myself. I love the dark, rich shade I walked out of the salon with, it's perfect for winter.

Allie gave me the white Michael Kors watch in the picture for Christmas & I borrowed her tortoiseshell bracelet so much she ended up giving it to me. Obviously, she's the best little sister ever :)

One of the combos I'm loving lately is a mix of camel & tortoiseshell. Both are very classic and I love how when paired together they look perfectly modern. Camel heels have leg lengthening super powers when paired with a LBD & the tortoise watch is the perfect everyday accessory.

As if you needed any more convincing to rock some tortoiseshell; check out Olivia Palermo looking incredibly chic in her sunglasses!

xoxo, lauren

French Femininity meets Wild West

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:36:00 +0000

I recently stumbled upon French clothing line, April May designed by former Paul & Joe designer, Diane Goldstein.. I love that it's a combination of my favorite aesthetics; French femininity paired with a western touch; I love those cowboy boots (so me!). I love when international lines use American heritage for inspiration in their designs.

I got tons of coffee table books (fashion, design, decor, etc.) to add to my collection for Christmas (literally, I had to take them home in another suitcase!). This one is one of my favorites:

Cowboy Boots: Art and Sole

I love that my style has evolved to be something all my own as I've gotten older. My wardrobe takes inspiration from all the places, people, and trends that inspire me!

xoxo, lauren

Happy & Healthy New Year

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 02:40:00 +0000

I hope everyone had a fantastic new year's! Like half of the population, I'm starting my "diet" & fitness plan tomorrow. I like to think of it less as dieting and more as making healthy eating lifestyle choices. Moving to Wisconsin has been such a wonderful experience, but all those cheese curds and frozen custards are no help to a petite girl!

One of my new year's resolutions is to cook more; these are some of the tasty & healthy recipes that I'm excited to try out whether you're craving breakfast, dinner, or something sweet!

L-R (clockwise): Pineapple Zucchini Cupcakes via Skinny Taste, Crock Pot Enchilada Soup via Skinny Taste, Coconut Chicken Salad w/ Honey Mustard Vinaigrette via Skinny Taste, Veggie Noodles via Kitchen Confidante, Spinach & Egg Quiche via Under 400 Tumblr, Oriental Chicken Salad via Babble, Slow Cooker Pork Tacos via Food Network, Fruit Crepes via Under 400 Tumblr

Spending most of my life as a dancer, I get tired of the same old gym routines. I need to work out with a friend to stay motivated or try an alternative workout class. I'm a big fan of hula hoop aerobics that my gym offers, my little sister is also becoming a Zumba teacher which is too much fun! I've also signed up @ Self Magazine to track my food & exercise.

I love this simplified healthy lifestyle plan via a pair & a spare

This blog is also full of great healthy inspiration & motivation:

Is anyone else starting or continuing a journey to a healthy lifestyle? Share your favorite food & exercise blogs or tips or even workout playlists, I'd love to support eachother!

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy & stylish new year!

xoxo, lauren

A Toast to 2012

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 23:04:00 +0000

I can't believe it's almost the new year already! So much has happened in my life in the past 12 months; I've graduated from college, settled into life in Wisconsin, and got my dream job in the fashion industry. I have so much to celebrate in life.. I can hardly wait to see where 2012 takes me! So here's a toast to the New Year!

I am sadly still on the hunt for the perfect New Year's Eve dress to wear out this weekend. I'm thinking either something sparkly or basic with dressed up statement heels and jewels (I need an excuse to buy leopard wedges!). I'll be sure to let you know what I end up with!

What will you be doing to ring in the new year? And more importantly.. what will you be wearing?

xoxo, Lauren

Latest Lust: Coastal Interiors

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 02:38:00 +0000

I hope everyone had an amazing holiday. I'm enjoying my time home in sunny Florida! Today, I went house hunting with my parents. As a kid, I always loved going into model homes and admiring the interior decor, I feel no less inspired as a 20-something.

I snapped tons of pictures of chic decor in all the homes we saw. I have always loved the look of coastal interiors, it's such a light & airy, but polished look. These were some of my favorite styles.

One of the things I responded to most were the printed wallpapers, curtains, and chairs. It's an easy way to modernize any home and step up the style quotient.

What would your dream house look like?

xoxo, lauren

A Very Florida Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 19:02:00 +0000

For me, growing up in Florida has meant white Christmases in terms of sandy beaches, decorated palm trees instead of pine, and weather warm enough to spend in a bathing suit. While this seems like Christmas sacrilege to many of my Wisconsin friends, it's the only thing I've ever known!

I'm looking forward to spending a week at home enjoying the nice warm weather, seeing my friends and family, and scooping up some Florida souvenirs to bring back with me.

How will you be spending the holidays this year?

xoxo, lauren

Happy Holidays from La Petite Fashionista!

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 01:09:00 +0000

This year I've decided to send my holiday cards out via Paperless Post for a stylish, eco-friendly (& affordable!) option. We were lucky enough to get a dusting of snow the other night for me to take a festive picture (my holiday sweater is a vintage pearl encrusted number from the fifties).

I can't believe it's almost Christmas! It seems like yesterday that I got my tree up and decorated the house. I'm excited to go home to Florida to see friends and family (and hopefully regain my tan). It was so fun having Christmas decorations this year that are sparkly, colorful and completely my style!

I wanted to share a few of my favorite pictures of the holiday season so far:

My bedazlzled Christmas tree

A festive table setting

My homemade wreath

Downtown Chicago's huge Christmas tree

Festive store windows on the Magnificent Mile

What do you plan on doing to enjoy the holidays?

xoxo, lauren

Mad for Monograms

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 00:59:00 +0000

I don't know if it's because I'm missing the South, my dear friend "RAA", or every fashion blogger's latest bespoke necklaces, but I've been absolutely adoring all things monogrammed lately. I've got my cardigans & tervis tumbler, and I have a certain Moon and Lola necklace on my Christmas list this year.

I love a classic monogram backed with a super modern trellis or chevron pattern for pillows, platters & cosmetics cases. Blogger Blair Eadie can rock them like no one's business. The personalized touch is a nod to classic Americana (think 1950's monogrammed cashmere sweaters) and a modern day preppy look.

I love that they're actually starting to trend lately, think of it as a new take on Carrie Bradshaw's nameplate necklace. Would you sport your monogram?

xoxo, LFP

Latest Lust: Luxe Lounging

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 02:20:00 +0000

Ever since I saw the J. Crew image below of mixing cozy pajamas & pearls, I've been thrilled with the idea of upping the ante on my Christmas pjs this year. Our family tradition is to spend Christmas day in our pajamas opening presents, drinking mimosas, and visiting with the family. It's definitely one of my favorite days of the year!

These are some of my favorite ways to dress up your comfy laid back looks. Whether you dress up your sweats with a fairisle sweater or flannel bottoms with a chambray shirt, mixing and matching gives cozy clothes a stylish twist.

What do you wear when you just want to feel cozy and cute?

xoxo, lauren

Cute Coats for Chilly Weather

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 04:05:00 +0000

One of the things I've found to be hardest about living somewhere cold is that all winter long you have to wear coats to cover up your cute outfits! This is why I've been on the hunt for the cutest coats & coordinating accessories, so my outer layer is just as chic as the clothes underneath!

Look for wool and down with faux fur linings, insulation & hoods for added warmth. Pretty colors, feminine details, and stylish cold weather accessories make all the difference in adding some style when you're feeling winter drab.

Some more cute coat inspiration:

Cheetah is the New Black

Polienne

What is your go-to winter coat?

xoxo, lauren

Latest Lust: Down Vests

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Before moving to Wisconsin, I had little need for coats, long underwear, snow boots, and all of the accompanying accessories. Honestly, I've always thought down vests we're sort of dorky. It wasn't until recently that I've realized how warm they are & can also be a cute layering piece! I'm also loving my rust colored striped thermal; it looks perfect paired w/ my turquoise accessories.

These are some stylish bloggers and brands that have inspired my layered look:

Penfield, so cute!

District of Chic

Preppy in Pittsburgh

What I'm Wearing:

Down Vest: Lands' End Canvas , Striped Thermal: J. Crew, Jeans: Talbots, Wedges: Steve Madden, Scarf: Vintage

I'm so glad that I can stay warm AND stylish this winter! What are your tips for layering with style?

xoxo, lauren

Pretty Packaging

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:51:00 +0000

As I've said before, sometimes the present's packaging is as important as the gift itself. I'm all about presentation & special touches. It doesn't even matter if it's a fancy present or home baked cookies, the way you wrap it makes all the difference! These are some of my favorite DIY gift wrap ideas:

I love the look of brown craft paper all tied up w/ colorful string, patterned grosgrain ribbon or lace to add a little something extra. How about the confetti dipped double sided tape and stylish tags (how cute are the covered button christmas trees & incredibly chic chevron)? I can't wait to try these out on my own gifts to give each it's own unique look!

I've also found a great set of stylish printable tags that you can print & use on your own gifts!

If you don't want to go to the DIY route, check out these already made stylish gift tags, bags, and wrapping paper. I love the use of colorful baker's twine, colorful confetti & putting a hairbow on a gift that can be worn as an accessory later!

How do you make your gift wrap gorgeous?

xoxo, lauren

Holiday Party Sparkle

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 03:46:00 +0000

I always love to get together for holiday parties, because as you can expect, I love any occasion to get all dressed up. This year, I'm feeling less of a traditional red and tartan, and more of the unexpected; flamingo pinks, bright oranges, and sparkles galore.These images offer inspiration for festive looks that will still look stylish all winter long.

This post was inspired by my recent shopping trip where I picked up some items much like the ones below.. I can't wait to have an excuse to debut each piece. I'm pretty in love with this color combo & the way the colors work together, these shades are definitely trending.

What are you wearing to holiday parties this year?

xoxo, lauren

Darling DIY Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 02:26:00 +0000

My next installment in Christmas-y goodness features DIY projects (ranging from super easy to somewhat tricky). These would make great handmade gifts for the holidays or a birthday, and can be super affordable to make too. In fact, let's be real- you'll inevitably want to make a set for yourself too because they're so stinkin cute.

Be sure to check out all of these stylish DIY projects (L-R).

Rhinestone Necklace via Adventure in Fashion- Leather Cell Phone Case via Swell Mayde- Coloful Custom Coasters via The Cottage Home- Leather Chevron Cuff via A Beautiful Mess- Bow Bracelet via Flax & Twin- Gameday Dress via Sweet Verbena - Etched Glasses via Martha Stewart- Elephant Bookends via (my fave!) Hello Boudreau -Hand Embroidered Notecards via Design*Sponge

I honestly want to make all of these! I'm constantly inspired by the creativity of fellow bloggers! Maybe a do-it-yourself weekend will be necessary when I'm home for the holidays with friends & family.

Which stylish DIY project is your favorite?

xoxo, lauren

Stylish Stocking Stuffers (Under $40!)

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:55:00 +0000

Besides the decorating, one of my favorite things about Christmas is the gift giving. I consider to be gift giving a sort of an art form. Gift cards may be an easy solution, but I take pride in selecting the perfect presents for each person on my list. I like it when each receiver can tell I've picked something special for them.

Below, I've compiled what would be the ultimate gifts for the La Petite Fashionista girl (I know a lot of my readers have similar taste) & chic friends. Everything is under $40.00, oh so cute, and stylish too!

These are just a few of my favorite things.. Capri Blue candles, cute snail mail stationary, bright lipstick and cupcake goodness! Don't even get me started on the gift wrapping, I'll save that for another post ;)

Who on your list would you love to see a gift guide for?

xoxo, lauren

Have Yourself a Colorful Christmas

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 23:51:00 +0000

This is the first year I've been able to decorate my own place and give my home its own holiday flair. For me, this means the less traditional route, more color, glitz, DIY, and even a retro Christmas feel. I've been scouring pinterest for the perfect inspiration images to guide me in my shopping for decor.

I went with a faux green tree with colorful lights and sparkly & colorful ornaments from World Market, Target, and even the Dollar Store! I've been busy diy-ing signs, creating wreaths, and creating a festive table. The images below, with white trees, and very bright and bold Christmas decor are right up my alley.

Below, I have some of my favorite picks to give your Christmas decor a dose of color and sparkle!

What does your holiday decor look like?

xoxo, lauren