La Petite Fashionista

Perfect Pairings: Dip Dye Denim & Eyelet

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Fri, 24 May 2013 14:24:00 +0000

I've been loving the look of denim tops for summer, but even with the sleeves rolled up, chambray button downs are a little bit too hot for me. I loved this sleeveless dip-dye variation I found at Forever 21 last weekend- especially paired back to an always summery white eyelet skirt & colorful arm party!

get the look: ombre chambray shirt // white eyelet skirt // tan wedges (similar) // pink bracelet // turquoise bracelet (similar) // elastic hair tie (similar)

I can hardly believe it's Memorial Day Weekend already- it sort of marks the unofficial start of summer! As much as I'd like to be lounging by the pool or grilling out- I'll be in the process of moving out of my apartment & on to new summer adventures!

What are your memorial day weekend plans?

xoxo, lauren

Domestic Goddess (in Training!)

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Wed, 22 May 2013 05:34:00 +0000

I am seriously in love with this shopbop "Domestic Goddess" accessories editorial- and I think it's because it reminds me of me so much. Always completely overdressed in the kitchen with accessories galore (which is a terrible idea given my accident proneness).

I am pretty proud of my journey to becoming a domestic goddess- though I'm nowhere near an expert in the kitchen, I thankfully have learned my way around (giving much credit to having my blog which has inspired me to cook + bake more often!). I really enjoy how gratifying a home cooked meal is!

all editorial images via shopbop.com

One of the things I've enjoyed most in learning how to cook is finding cute kitchen accessories- from colorful measuring spoons to aprons to keep clothes clean and decorative pot holders! These simple pieces make me want to be in my kitchen even more!

Get the Look: 1. Bamboo Fiber Measuring Spoons // 2. White Cake Stand // 3. Rifle Paper Co. Recipe Cards // 4. KitchenAid Turquoise Stand Mixer (obsessed!) // 5. Pescadero Rolling Pin // 6. Gingham Oven Mitt / 7. Lemon Oven Mitt // 8. Chevron Apron

I had a heck of a time trying to pick out a Julia Child quote for this post. I didn't realize she was so quotable! Another one of my favorite quotes of hers- perfect for newbies in the kitchen like me is;

“This is my invariable advice to people: Learn how to cook- try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!”

― Julia Child, My Life in France

What's your favorite meal/ baked good to whip up in the kitchen? (I'm a fan of some good southern comfort food- reminds me of home!)

xoxo, lauren

Chambray + Stripes

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Mon, 20 May 2013 04:46:00 +0000

Today over on the Midwest Style Bloggers page, me and three other lovely ladies are sharing one look, four ways with our trusty chambray shirts! I seriously love mine whether sporting it open as a jacket, knotted over a dress, or buttoned up over a pair of colorful pants.

My mom is here visiting for the week and helping me pack up my apartment, so I feel pretty darn lucky to have a live-in outfit post photographer while she's here! She was able to snap this picture about 30 seconds before a huge summer storm rolled in.

get the look: striped tank dress (similar) // chambray shirt (similar) // turquoise bubble necklace (similar) // brown leather wedges (similar)

arm party love: Tortoiseshell Michael Kors watch // gold Swell Caroline bangle // Keep Your Balance Bracelets // Pink Stud Bracelets

one look 4 ways : katelyn // maya // me // samantha

I picked up this striped knit dress on a whim this weekend and am pretty in love with it- I'm a sucker for any dress with pockets! I wore it celebrating my boyfriend's graduation at our favorite Madison spot- the Memorial Union terrace splitting a pitcher with our families and enjoying some live music!

xoxo, lauren

5 Tips Every Blogger Should Know

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Fri, 17 May 2013 17:37:00 +0000

I seriously can't believe I've been blogging at La Petite Fashionista for over six years, it never ceases to blow my mind! I'm thankful for all the readers who have followed me and supported over the years and those who are brand new to my blog!

I've been getting a few questions lately on starting a blog/ driving traffic/ any helpful hints so I wanted

to share a few of the helpful hints I've learned over the years! I feel like because I've watched the blogging world unfold over the years I learned everything the hard way- so I just hope these tips can benefit anyone!

Here are five helpful hints whether you're considering starting a blog or a blogging veteran!

1.Starting a Blog: Choosing a name & niche for your blog is the most important step. Something that is easy to remember & relates to you / the content is key. La Petite Fashionista specializes in affordable and inspiring fashion, design & DIY! Sign up with either blogger or wordpress for a free blog site, and register your domain on Go Daddy to stake your claim as your blog grows!

fun tip!: A great blog design keeps people checking out your blog for longer and more likely to save you to their bookmarks. Check out Pugly Pixel & Code It Pretty for DIY tutorials or hire a designer who understands your aesthetic and fits into your pricepoint- like Christine at Great Oak Circle!

2. Utilize Social Media to Drive Traffic: Build social media sites under your blog name on twitter, pinterest, and facebook. Pinterest is one of the biggest ways people find my blog, so be sure to add a "pin it button" to your blog!

(fun tip!: before publishing a post right click on the image while in the "compose" mode and select properties. In the pop up screen you will see an area for "alt text". Fill in this box whatever you would want the text to read when someone pins it on pinterest, i.e. this image when pinned will say "5 Tips Every Blogger Should Know".

3. Engage With Readers & Other Bloggers: A lot of people start a blog and just expect the readers to come- but reading and commenting on other blogs, tweeting with other bloggers and brands and connecting with people is really what blogging is all about! You can also join a local blogging network (Midwesterners- be sure to join our newly launch Midwest Style Bloggers network!

(fun tip!: Join twitter chats/parties as an opportunity to "network" with other bloggers. One of my favorites is the Independent Fashion Bloggers weekly #StyleChat utilize the hashtag within your tweets to be a part of the conversation!)

4. Sign up for Goggle Analytics Account: This sounds super dorky, but you have to sign up for a free google analytics account for tracking blog traffic I LOVE analyzing my traffic- where it's coming from/unique visitors/most popular content. You can use this information to know what readers are loving the most to help guide what you write your posts about as well as how people are finding your happy little blog!

(fun tip!: One of the best parts about having google analytics is the ability to export information. You can use these key findings like "unique visitors" & "average monthly page views" to give insight to PR companies / brands that may want to advertise with you).

5. Use Free Sites for Photo Editing & Graphic Design: I think one of the biggest misconceptions about blogging is that you have to have a professional DSLR camera, photoshop and a ton of graphic design skills to have a beautiful blog. In reality there are some great free services that allow you to edit photos, create collages of product and images - I love PicMonkey for photo editing & Polyvore.com for photo collages

(fun tip!: A tip I do have to make blog pages feel more consistent and professional are to keep all images the same size and maintain the resolution. It will depend on the size of your layout, but, once you start an image size try to keep consistency within posts).

Sorry for the longest blog post EVER- don't hesitate to ask me any questions in the comments or shoot me an email- and please share your insights as well!

xoxo, lauren

Easy Meals for Busy Girls: Baked Greek Chicken & Greek Salad

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Wed, 15 May 2013 04:55:00 +0000

I am always looking for simple meals I can prepare during the work week when I'm feeling unmotivated but still want to be semi-healthy. I had a some organic chicken breasts I needed to use as well as a romaine lettuce mix so my wheels started turning.

I remembered the article that Jocelyn wrote for the latest issue of LPF Mag featuring diy salad dressings and I knew it was the perfect excuse to make her Greek Salad Vinaigrette and a perfectly paired baked chicken with all of the same great Greek flavor. It turned out to literally be a new favorite that will be on rotation for many weeks to come.

Baked Greek Chicken

Serves 2; Prep Time: 10 Min / Cook Time: 45 Min

Ingredients:

2 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

1/2 Lemon (juice) & 1/2 slices

2 tbsp Greek Oregano

1 Finally Minced Garlic Clove

1 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 Tsp Kosher Salt

1/2 Tsp Ground Black Pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven at 400 degrees.

2. Start by lining a deep baking dish with tin foil

3. Slice lemon in half, squeeze juice of half lemon & save for later

4. Cut the leftover lemon half into small slices and place on baking sheet under neath chicken breasts

5.. Grease the tin foil & chicken breasts with olive oil

6.. Sprinkle garlic, oregano, salt & pepper on chicken breasts

7. Drizzle juice from half lemon over chicken

8. Bake at 400 degrees for 43 minutes and set on broil for final 2 minutes

The salad was incredibly easy- I just chopped up onions (you can throw in tomatoes and olives as well!) & some feta cheese and mixed up this homemade Greek salad Vinaigrette. Get the recipe (& more Greek deliciousness) on Jocelyn's blog post at Saucy Jocey's Kitchen- I swear I've never enjoyed a salad so much!

What are your go-to dinners that never disappoint?

xoxo, lauren

Try this Trend: Crochet & Neon

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Sun, 12 May 2013 18:42:00 +0000

The neon trend is not going anywhere and I love this fresh interpretation by pairing crochet & neon together. The trick to trying this trend is the small bright pops of color paired back to neutral crochet/ lace. If a neon apparel piece is a little too loud for you- try it with a neon bracelet or nail polish.

These are a few of my favorite ways to wear this fun, summer look- from crochet shorts & neon tees to a fluorescent yellow statement necklace perfect for pairing over a white lace top.

Get the Look:

1. Neon ID Bracelet- Bauble Bar // 2. Neon a Roll Dress - ModCloth // 3. Crochet Crop Top - Topshop // 4. Fuchsia Flash Lipstick- Maybelline // 5. 3" Shocking Pink Chino Shorts- J.Crew // 6. Anne- Julep Nail Vernis // 7. Foldover Clutch- Clare Vivier // 8. Pave Embellished Neon Stud Earrings - Express // 9. Neon Lace Top- Madewell // 10. Vachetta Neon Navajo Sandals - Jack Rogers // 11. Crochet Shorts - Vintage Havana // 12. Crystal and Neon Chevron Necklace - J.Crew

I think my favorite part about neon is the instant-tan you get when you're wearing anything that brightly colored. I also seem to gravitate towards anything with lace or crochet- so the two of these trends paired together are a match made in fashion heaven!

What's your favorite way to wear the neon trend- or have you been waiting to try it out?

xoxo, lauren

Let Me Style You- for Free!

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Fri, 10 May 2013 19:43:00 +0000

I think I am that girl that just loves to be busy! Despite a crazy schedule, I found out about personal styling service Keaton Row and knew it was something I wanted to be involved with! I've always loved giving friends fashion advice. Just ask Jocelyn- I love being the go-to for "which dress should I wear to my friend's wedding?" girl!

Keaton Row is a free online styling service- you fill out your questionnaire of body type/ personal style preferences/ budget/ wardrobe composition / special event you need a look for- if that's the case. Then, within a week you'll get a personalized lookbook & outfit recommendations from me! It's basically the online version of taking me shopping with you :)

You can check out my profile here as well as some fun Q&A, outfit ideas and inspiration ( anyone else a fan of monograms, peonies, crystal chandeliers arm parties, & coffee? I feel like these describe me in a nutshell!)

It doesn't matter what your age/body type/ personal style is- I will find you something you love.. promise! I'm really excited for this fun opportunity to do more of what I love so give it a shot or refer me to someone else you know that would like some professional shopping advice! With no pressure to purchase anything!

I'm looking forward to applying my love of great affordable style, background in fashion merchandising, and trend savvy blogging to picking out fun & flattering pieces!

Sign up here for a styling consultation with me!

xoxo, lauren

LPF Book Club: "The Power of Style" by Bobbie Thomas

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Thu, 09 May 2013 03:18:00 +0000

I was really excited to review a copy of Today Show Style Editor, Bobbie Thomas' new book, "The Power of Style" because I've followed Bobbies's fashion insight since I was an *NSYNC obsessed tween J-14 reader. I sincerely loved this book, because it was unlike any other fashion book I've ever read. It actually is quite empowering and is equally about loving yourself as it is about loving clothes.

"Power of Style" is part fashion book/ part self help guide) has two parts: "Change Starts Within" and "Bringing the Inside Out".

In "Change Starts Within", Bobbie talks about getting to the core of what confidence really is, learning how to love and accept yourself and your body, mastering your image and what other people see. I think this is so relevant! One of the things that bothered me most as a fashion student in college was when students would come to class in yoga pants while we had professional recruiters from major retailers come speak to us. What kind of impression does for a person in HR if that is how you're putting your best foot forward?

The second section, "Bringing the Inside Out" features styling tips for your body type, finding the colors that make you look your best (& how to rock the ones that typically wouldn't be), defining your personal style, and organizing your closet. I think the great thing about this book is that it doesn't take a one size fits all approach to fashion- it's about empowering you to make the decisions that make you feel confident, beautiful and stylish.

I highly recommend this book for anyone that wants both style AND substance in a book. One of the fun features is the interactive sections that have you jot down notes while you read (i.e. a list of your favorite pieces in your close)

So, in the spirit of embracing & loving yourself readers-- what is your favorite thing about yourself (physical feature or personality quality -it's okay, brag!)

For me it's that my petite stature (5'0!") lets me wear the highest heels I want without towering over my boyfriend ;)

xoxo, lauren

I'm a Verizon Voices Style Blogger!

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Wed, 08 May 2013 05:02:00 +0000

I have very exciting news for LPF! I am so excited to announce that I've been selected as a Verizon Voices Style Blogger! This past weekend I took the train down to Chicago to meet the team of bloggers participating get trained in how to use my new device, and of course have a little bit of fun in the Windy City!

We were given the new Samsung Galaxy Camera to test out for the next 6 months! So you'll be seeing some blog posts talking about it throughout the year. It's pretty much a fashion blogger's dream, because it's sort of a hybrid camera phone / DSLR. It offers the clarity of a high end camera with the ability to edit, use apps & send photos to social media channels right from your camera's wireless connection! I'm looking forward to taking it with me to all my summer activities.

Now, to share some of my favorite moments from my trip to Chicago!

*disclosure: I am participating in the Verizon Style Voices program and have been provided with a wireless device and six months of service in exchange, but all opinions and views about the product are my own!

So official right?! To the right is my geeking out over phone technology face!

The obligatory #armparty shot with my new camera!

We were lucky enough to have front row seats to attend the Art Institute of Chicago's fashion show! It was SO much fun for the former fashion student in me.The students are so talented and truly the future of the industry. I was dying over this mermaid inspired look, fifties style knits & metallic sneaker wedges!

My look for the day (it ended up being SO cold, so this was covered in a down coat for a lot of the trip!)

Dress / Necklace/ Bracelet: Francesca's

We had one of the best meals of my life at Spanish, Tapas Restaurant, Mercat a la Planxa! The historic hotel it was in was beautiful (loving that chandelier & gorgeous celings) and food amazing. I loved that the menu was set so I could take some chances trying tapas that I wouldn't normally try.

I had so much fun meeting all of the sweet & stylish bloggers in the program -Sandy, Teena, Sarah, Lindsey & more! So much fun bonding with other ladies who don't look at you funny if you ask them to take an outfit picture or need to stop to instagram your dinner ;) Thank you to Verizon for a fun weekend & an amazing new camera to document it!

xoxo, lauren

Midwest Style Bloggers is Launching Today!

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Mon, 06 May 2013 13:38:00 +0000

Happy M

The Midwest Style Bloggers page is officially launching today! Come meet the team that has been pulling everything together over on our page (we have some get-to-know-us Cosmo inspired quizzes coming out throughout the week!), our updated blog with events, members and more.

Check out the blog here as well as our Twitter and Facebook! And of course - feel free to fill out an application and join. We are also looking for guest blog post writers for the site to share travel guides to your city, highlight local boutiques, and your Midwest style!

I also spent a fun weekend in Chicago with some stylish Midwest bloggers, but more on that later!

xoxo, lauren

Inspired by: the Great Gatsby

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Sun, 05 May 2013 00:09:00 +0000

My inner literature nerd is absolutely geeking out over the new Great Gatsby film. I'm pretty sure it's the perfect combination of two of my favorite things- opulent twenties fashion & one of the most noted novels of all time. I even wrote a research paper in AP History about how fashion revolutionized the 1920's for women (say goodbye to corsets + hello to speakeasies and sassy drop waist dresses).

I've found a few of my favorite pieces inspired by the F. Scott Fitzgerald book & new Baz Lurhmann production! I have a feeling the fashion will not disappoint in the new film.

Get the Look: Chanel No 5 Perfume // Scallop Sequined Clutch // Great Gatsby Cuff // Art Deco Crystal Necklace // Black Beaded Flapper Cocktail Dress // Tassel Earrings // Art Deco Beaded Headband // Gold Beaded Maxi Dress // T-Strap Platform Heels // Pearl Bracelet // The Great Gatsby Novel

1920's fashion is known for art deco elements, drop waist dresses, fringe & beaded details and crystal jewelry. Wear these elements on their own to keep from feeling too flapper costume-y.

The costumes for the film look beautiful & the soundtrack in true Baz Lurhmann style should perfectly set the scene! Are you Planning on checking out the movie?

xoxo, lauren

Latest Lust: Fun Favors

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Thu, 02 May 2013 04:48:00 +0000

One of my favorite entertaining ideas right now are fun favors! They can be inexpensive & diy'd, but add such a personal and memorable touch to any party, wedding, or event. These are some of my favorite ideas I've seen- so creative, but many are very simple too!

Succulent Plant: Even for guests who don't have a green thumb, a trendy succulent plan is a fun gift
Tissue Wrapped Candies: Any roll of cnady gets an upgrade when wrapped in tissue & tied up with string
Strawberry Jam: One of the things I'm super excited about this summer is making my own strawberry jam- how perfect is it as a parting gift!?
Seed Kit Favors: For this gift all you need is packets of seeds + plant marker
Bubbles: So much fun for a summer cookout, I think I'd have to hand these out before the party was over for added fun
S'more Kit: Any bonfire needs a sweet s'more kit as a souvenir
Champagne Can: Sofia Coppola makes these adorable cans of champagne, pair with bakers twine + fun straw for an insta-favor
Mix CD: This could be used for everything from a country hits at a bbq to a couples favorite songs at as a wedding favor- a fun graphic design for the CD sleeve is a must!

I'm promising myself I will go the extra mile with a favor at a party this summer!

Do you have any fun party favor ideas?

xoxo, lauren

Spring Trends with Lulus.com

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 05:21:00 +0000

Lulu's.com contacted me to style a few of their spring pieces so I jumped at the opportunity to pick a few of my favorite spring trends from watercolor florals & chevron stripes to scalloped hems, sequins & arm parties & statement necklaces!

Lulu's is one of my favorite online stores for finding of-the-moment trends at affordable prices-- what more could a girl want?! I can't wait to wear these pieces all summer long.

Drawn to You Floral Print Shift Dress c/o Lulus.com

She Sells Sea Shells Cream Sequin top c/o Lulus.com (similar)

Pack Your Zig Zags Blush Pink Chevron Shift Dress & State Your Business Blue and Mint Green Necklace c/o Lulus.com (cute weimaraner not included ;)

My boyfriend's mom was nice enough to take some outfit pictures of me out at their place- it was the first 70 degree day in 8 months.. meant to be! I love that Lucy, their family dog wanted to get in on the photo action on their porch- picture perfect! A huge thank you to lulu's for the fun pieces to style with & my photog!

What is your favorite spring trend?

xoxo, lauren

DIY Plant Markers

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 01:02:00 +0000

Today was my first trip to the farmer's market of the season! (& brunch with the girls downtown)! There wasn't much fresh produce because it's been too cold to grow anything- but flowers & herb stands were everywhere, thankfully!

I've been looking for some herbs to plant to use fresh in cooking + bartending and this pineapple mint plant immediately caught my eye!

The pineapple mint plant has a slight scent + taste of pineapple. I am incredibly excited to use it in mojitos- my favorite summer drink! I decided to make a fun little plant marker with some crafty supplies like bamboo skewers, washi tapes, stickers & scrapbooking paper I had around the house!

This was the first time we've had temperatures above 60 in so many months so I enjoyed being able to be outside. I wish I had a green thumb! I am determined to keep some plants alive this summer!

Do you have any plants that you use for cooking in your home?

xoxo, lauren

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Brunch with Events Uncorked

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 19:31:00 +0000

Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner! A holiday celebrated with a few of my favorite things- Mexican food, margaritas & great friends! My talented friend & La Petite Fashionista mag contributor, Sarah of Events Uncorked pulled together the most amazing spring brunch ideas for Issue #3!

This colorful fiesta themed brunch could easily be adapted for your Cinco de Mayo Parties!

photography by: Sarah Ennis // Events Uncorked // La Petite Fashionista Mag Issue #3

The DIY margarita bar with fruit puree add-ins is one of my favorite ideas, served with homemade guac & chicken fajita fixins. I would also love to make a big pitcher of beergaritas (check out the recipe if you're looking for something simple for your Cinco de Mayo shindig!

See more of the brunch in Issue #3 of La Petite Fashionista Magazine!

Also thinking I need this Zarape Dress from Point Conception to feel extra festive!

Do you have any Cinco de Mayo plans?

xoxo, lauren

Get the Look: Kentucky Derby Party

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 19:45:00 +0000

Confession time: I've always wanted to go to the Kentucky Derby (or at least dress like it!). The big hats, big heels & big mint juleps are simply calling out to my inner southern girl. My friend Emily wants to throw a shindig, and I can't imagine a better reason to go by an obscenely large hat!

I put together a fun look for your derby party complete w/ Lilly Pulitzer dress (what derby day would be complete without that?!) The derby is on Saturday, May 4th, and I definitely want to celebrate in style!

Get the Look ( Clockwise to Right) Colorblock Derby Hat // Moon & Lola Monogram Necklace // Lilly Pulitzer Julianna Dress // White Wedges // Pearl Stud Earrings // Lilly Pulitzer Sunglasses Croakies // Mint Julep Cup // Pink Gingham Bow Tie // Lace Trimmed Straw Bag // Kentucky Derby Party Invitations

I am seriously in love with this look. I wish I could get my guy to wear a bow tie (reading this kyle?? ;) Also, need to try my hand at making mint juleps (I am a huge fan of any drink with fresh mint in it- I think i'll try the recipe from Hen House Linens!

Have you ever participated in a Derby Party or attended the event for yourself? Would love to know what you wore!

xoxo, lauren

Makeup Brush 101 // Makeup Organization

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:52:00 +0000

My sister Allie has always been the beauty queen. When I was in college, she'd come over and do my make-up and hair for me, and I'd help her pick out her outfit (a good trade I'd say!). Over the years I've started to learn my way around Sephora and my favorite beauty brands.

Iconic beauty brand, Mary Kay sent me a set of their makeup brushes & brush cleaner to test out which makes me feel a bit more like a grown up than just using the freebies that come-along with make-up purchases. I think even my glamour goddess sister would be proud of me!

check out similar makeup organizers here

I even picked up this handy acrylic make-up organizer. it's perfect for storing some of my daily essentials on my bathroom counter for easy accessibility!

What's your daily beauty routine?

xoxo, lauren

Give Peace a Chance

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 18:11:00 +0000

I don't normally talk about personal things on my blog, but after all of the senseless violence and hatred I've seen happening this week, I can't help but hope for a ~~little~~ lot more peace on earth.

Whether it's trending or not. I've always loved the peace sign and what it represents and right now I think we could all use a little more peace in our lives.

get the look (L-R): peace sign dress // peace & love earrings// peace sign bracelet // needlepoint peace hand pillow // tie dye peace & love tank // peace sign bangle // // gold peace hand decor // needlepoint peace sign loafers // peace sign arm party

My heart goes out to all of those affected by the tragedies that have occurred this week- you're in my thoughts and prayers. Live your life to the fullest each day, taking advantage of every opportunity that comes your way & telling the people you love how much you care.

Hoping everyone has a wonderful and relaxing weekend!

xoxo, lauren

The Green Couch Diaries

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 04:17:00 +0000

Have you ever owned a piece of furniture that as beautiful as it is- is really freakin hard to decorate around? For my that's my green leather couch! It was a way-too-nice-for-me hand-me-down from my parents and I love it to pieces. The only bad thing is that decorating an entire room around a big green piece of furniture can be quite a challenge.

I am going to be moving into my own place again in June, and I'm always ready to switch up the decor. I've been trying to find some inspiration for green statement couches for this next interior design venture.

I like the idea of pairing it with bright & colorful accents and keeping walls white and neutral- maybe with a gallery wall behind it or some floating shelves. I also have some great colorful throw pillow slipcovers my mom has sewn for me.

I've dreamed up something a little bit like this- kitschy, fun, colorful with an ode to my florida girl style.

get the look: ginger jar // yellow picture frame // monogram cocktail shaker // succulent plant // aloha print // love paperweight // porcelain pineapple // peony print pillow // chevron monogram pillow // smile pillow // wave pillow // pineapple print pillow// candle

Have you ever had to determine your decor around a distinguishing furniture piece? How did you resolve your interior design challenges?

xoxo, lauren

The LPF Guide to: Natural Beauty

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 23:43:00 +0000

It's funny, because I'm fairly conscious about the food I'm putting into my body; trying to eat clean and as much organic, locally grown & non-processed food as possible. Though as much as I pay attention to nutrition- I rarely think about the beauty products I use and how many chemicals I expose myself to by using them on a daily basis.

I've recently been trying to buy more natural beauty products, read more labels, and swapping out some of more chemical-laden products with more organic or natural alternatives. I wanted to share a few of my favorite brands!

Some of the chemicals I especially try to avoid are: paraben, sulfate, phthalates & formaldehyde, all have links to potential cancer. I am by no means perfect, but I'd like to work towards eliminating the use of these. I've also seen a noticeable improvement in my skin and hair with all of the chemical free products I've been using.

10 Natural Beauty Products to Swap Out in your Cosmetic Bag

1. Priti Polish

2. Neutrogena Naturals Moisturizer

3. Tarte Amazonian Clay Smart Mascara

4. bareMinerals Mineral Veil Finishing Powder

5. Alba Botanica Natural Hawaiian Shampoo

6. Ilia Lipstick

7. Burt's Bees Natural Acne Spot Treatment

8. Juice Beauty Tinted Mineral Moisturizer

9. Origins Grapefruit Body Souffle

10. Pacifica Coconut Water Cleansing Wipes

The blog "No More Dirty Looks" is a great resource for more info about safe beauty products!

Do you have any favorite natural beauty brands or products? I'm always excited to try new ones!

xoxo, lauren

Try this Trend: Stylish Statement Rings

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 00:04:00 +0000

You know one of those rings where people can't help but make a comment about? I call it a statement piece or a conversational piece-- and they're one of my favorite things. I have a pineapple ring from H&M that always makes me smile when I look at it!

I've selected a few of my favorite statement rings for spring so you can try out the trend for yourself!

get the look: (L-R): Heart Ring // Alligator Ring // Wood Heart Ring // Flower Ring // Bow Ring // Daisy Ring // Camera Ring // Peace Sign Ring // Arrow Ring

Which is your favorite statement ring?

xoxo, lauren

Print Mixing: Florals + Stripes

noreply@blogger.com (lauren @ la petite fashionista) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 04:45:00 +0000

I am in full fledged spring wardrobe mode right now (despite the snowfall we're projected to have this week.. ugh). I scored this hot pink blazer at LOFT during a sale the other week and love that it's petite so it's actually proportioned correctly for me (a rare find when you're 5 ft)! This Target dress had to find it's way into my sundress rotation too with it's automatic trendy print-mixing of florals and stripes.

get the look: floral & stripe dress // hot pink blazer // tan wedges

I'm really into this color palette as a great transition into warmer weather- adding bright pops of color to winter navy & gray and of course a bold floral print. What are your favorite spring shades to inject some brightness to your wardrobe?

xoxo, lauren

Thrift Store Runway!

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:06:00 +0000

Hi Guys! I'm honored to be hosting this month's Thrift Store Runway competition! It's an online contest with five cash prizes for the best submissions. All you have to do is submit your look showing how you rock your thrifted pieces!

I'm a big fan of finding apparel & decor treasures at the thrift store like this acid washed denim vest (90's love.) I even hosted a fashion show in high school w/ pieces entirely styled from the Hospice Thrift Store I volunteered at!

I can't wait to see how you wear your thrifted pieces. I will be posting all the submits that were sent from La Petite Fashionista on my blog, so make sure you leave me a comment letting me know you've entered!

Enter your thrift store runway look here, good luck! :)

xoxo, lauren

5 Things Lilly Pulitzer Taught Us About Life

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 21:50:00 +0000

I was so sad to hear of the passing of iconic Palm Beach fashionista, Lilly Pulitzer Rosseau .. The Lilly brand has always been an inspiration to me. I love the simple beginnings (dresses designed to cover up stains while working at a juice stand), the Florida roots, and the amazing print and pattern.

I think moving up north gave me a new appreciation for Lilly too- their saying that Sunshine is a State of Mind couldn't be more true- even if there's snow outside it makes me feel insta-happy seeing the colorful prints and positive outlook!

images via Lilly Pulizter

Lilly taught us how to dress, entertain, and decorate in color, and live life with zest and for that we will never forget her!

Cheers!

xoxo, lauren

Women Who Inspire Us

noreply@blogger.com (la petite fashionista) — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 03:52:00 +0000

I was born to be a a dreamer & a doer.. it's in my blood! As a little kid I was always starting up businesses selling knick knacks to my neighbors I'd whipped up in my grandma's garage, starting organizations (save the manatee club.. where at age 10 I'd yell at boaters speeding through no wake zones- true story), and as I got older organizing fashion shows for charity.

I am so inspired by all the entrepreneurs and start-ups in the fashion and design community. I wanted to highlight a few of my favorite women who are doing big things!I think it's a true testament of chasing your dreams and finding success doing what you love.

The Women Who Inspire Us:

Taylor Sterling, Founder of the Glitter Guide: I love the daily inspiring content that comes from the Glitter Guide editorial team- from fashion to entertaining to beauty

Anna Bond, Owner of Rifle Paper Co: I literally credit Anna for popularizing snail mail again with her illustrated cards and paper goods, her work has even made it's way into Target this Spring

Alaina Kaczmarski & Danielle Moss, Founders of the Everygirl: The site is a go-to guide for everyone making the transition to the "real world" from creating a budget to pantry essentials

Meg Biram, Blogger & Digital Marketing Consultant at MegBiram.com: Meg is a serious jack-of-all-trades from graphic design to business know-how, including her newly launching site"the bbar"

Roxy Owens, Owner of Society Social: I credit Roxy's online boutique for literally reviving the bar cart trend and her design influence is a force to be reckoned with

Brit Morin, Founder of Brit.Co: Brit is the Martha Stewart of Silicon Valley- bringing her google background to her site mixing fashion, technology, DIY & more

Bri Emery, Founder of Design Love Fest: I love Bri's quirky style & amazing, colorful graphic design talent- you've probably seen her face partnering with brands like Gap + Benefit Cosmetics

Kate Albrecht, Founder of Mr. Kate: Kate is a fashion & interiors DIY extraordinaire with a jewelry line and often seen sharing her secrets on Oprah's OWN Network & the Nate Berkus Show

Erika Brechtel, Owner of Small Shop Studio: Erika, owns a blog & 10 year old brand styling studio helping to brands with everything from logo & branding to website development to packaging

One of my favorite features of La Petite Fashionista Magazine are the pieces on Women in Business. Reading about the success of these lovely ladies is so empowering! I can only hope to make La Petite Fashionista a household name some day!

xoxo, lauren