Photo: HBO official promo wallpapers

Guys, I’ve gotten to the point where basically the only thing I can think about is “Game of Thrones.” Seriously, how can there only be two episodes left of this season? Don’t worry, I have a strict no-spoiler policy; I’m just saying – I cannot deal with the craziness. We’ve gotten to know so many new characters this time around, and that means it’s time for a post one one of the lesser-known Great Houses of Westeros – House Tully.

Even though the magnificent Catelyn Stark hails from House Tully, we didn’t know too much about them until this season, when we were introduced to The Riverlands and the Tullys’ ancestral castle, Riverrun. Like the Greyjoys, Tullys spend a lot of time around water, which holds deeply important symbolism for them. No wonder their sigil is the silver trout.

House Tully’s motto is “family, duty, honor,” and its members take those words to heart. Tullys are fiercely protective of their own, which manifests itself in Catelyn’s unwavering devotion to her children and even Lysa’s, um, rather extreme form of parenting.

Inspired by the Tullys’ nautical surroundings and deep love of family, I’ve put together three breezy, beachy looks that are perfect for any sun-loving “Game of Thrones” fan. Excited? Read on!

Lord of Riverrun

Top, Skirt, Belt, Bag, Sandals, Necklace, Earrings

This nautical-inspired outfit combines House Tully’s signature colors: red and blue. Sometimes I think combining these hues can be a bit tricky – it can be a bit cutesy and reminiscent of a Fourth of July barbecue if you’re not careful. Play with volume to create a chic, sophisticated look combining these colors: Tuck a billowy blue-and-white striped top into a cherry red skater skirt, then cinch your waistline with a white woven belt.

Next, add sea-inspired accessories for a signature Tully vibe, like a fishbone necklace and sailboat-shaped studs. For the finishing touch, go back to basics – accessorize with simple strappy sandals and a matching brown bag to create a refined look that’s still fun and youthful.

Laughter is Poison to Fear

Tank, Shorts, Clutch, Sandals, Gold Bangle, Woven Bracelet, Earrings

Inspired by my favorite Cat Tully (okay, Stark) quote, this ensemble totally sums up the Tully philosophy. Create a whimsical, fun-loving look that’s as fierce as it is playful by pairing a graphic tank (gotta have that fish!) with deep blue, tailored shorts. Then, add a splash of red with a woven bracelet.

Next, it’s all about the extras. Grab a wave-patterned clutch for that relaxing-by-the-river vibe. Fish hook hoops and a matching bangle are a nice little nod to House Tully symbolism, while gladiator wedges finish the look with an edgy touch.

Family, Duty, Honor

Dress, Belt, Clutch, Braided Bracelet, Bangle, Ring, Earrings

Create a breezy and fun formal look by pairing a vibrant red minidress with a wide array of blue accessories. First, cinch your dress at the waist with a woven brown-and-white belt to create a more casual, effortless ensemble.

Then it’s time to pile on the jewelry. Inspire arm candy envy with a braided anchor bracelet and a matching striped bangle – and don’t forget you can always add more! Emphasize the sea theme with an embellished fish cocktail ring and anchor-shaped studs. Complete the outfit with a splash of color – a bright aqua clutch should do the trick nicely.

Your thoughts?

What are your predictions for the rest of series three? (But no spoilers, please!) What do you think of the outfits? Be sure to let me know what you think of this series in the comments – I love hearing your thoughts!

One of my absolute favorite places at Walt Disney World (besides the parks themselves) is Disney’s BoardWalk. In my opinion, it’s one of the resort’s best-kept secrets for a little nighttime fun. From the restaurants and shops to the performers scattered throughout, Disney’s BoardWalk is a fun tribute to boardwalks of the past.

Although you may not be traveling to Walt Disney World anytime soon, you can collect pieces for your closet inspired by the BoardWalk’s vintage charm! Below, I’ve created two cute summertime outfits inspired by Disney’s BoardWalk. Scroll down to see them!

Coastal Cute

Dress, Cardigan, Wedges, Hat, Bag, Sunglasses, Earrings

Step out on the wooden walk in this light and airy getup. Wear a pretty pinstriped dress under a boyfriend cardigan, then slip on some sensible, yet chic accessories like a pair of wedges and a crossbody bag. Finish the ensemble with a bow-accented cloche, anchor motif earrings, and a fun pair of retro sunnies.

Nauti or Nice

Top, Shorts, Shoes, Bag, Scarf, Sunglasses, Bracelet

Rock a low-key nautical vibe with seersucker shorts and a brightly-colored tee. Pair with boat shoes, a sailboat-print scarf, and a canvas tote, all of which capture that perfect seaside flair. Grab a pair of vintage-inspired sunglasses and a braided rope bracelet to complete the look.

What do you think?

Are you inspired by vacation spots? Would you wear any of the looks above? Which outfit is your favorite? Would you like to see more posts like these in the future? Let me know in a comment below!

This week, I was walking through Sephora, looking for some inspiration for this week’s post when the Make Up For Ever Technicolor Palette immediately caught my eye.

I couldn’t help myself from swatching the bright colors on the back of my hand to test out the pigmentation, and let me tell you guys, I was so surprised at the amazing quality of these colors. They blend nicely and are not powdery at all – I guess you can say it was love at first bright (eyeshadow).

To me, an eyeshadow addict, $36 was a great deal for such pigmented colors. However, you may feel differently, so if it’s out of budget for you (or eyeshadow is more of a special occasion thing), feel free to use whatever colors you have on hand. (For lots of similar shades at a great price, try the popular 120 palette that we’re always talking about!)

Inspired by this gorgeous new palette, below, I’ll show you 4 different eyeshadow looks — from neutral to super-bright — that you can create with the Technicolor Palette. Scroll on down to check them out!

Look #1: Subtlety is Key

This look is extremely subtle (it’s probably the most natural look that can be created with this palette), but you can always spruce it up by building the crease with more colors

Want to go for a dark smokey eye? I suggest adding a lot more of the brown and black into the crease and perhaps under the lower lash line.

Tutorial:

1. After applying your eyeshadow primer (I used Too Faced Shadow Insurance) with a flat shader brush, I took the lightest champagne color and applied this all over the lids to give them a beautiful subtle glow.

2. Taking a fluffy blending brush and the dark matte brown, I swept this into the crease using circular motions to add more depth.

3. With a pencil brush and the black matte color, I created a light ‘V’ shape in the outer most part of my crease/lid, blending it to soften the color.

4. With the same fluffy blending brush that I used earlier, I finished blending the black into the crease very lightly, also using circular motions.

5. I then used the small brush provided in the palette and used the matte white color to brighten up my inner corners.

6. The same color was used under my brow bone as a highlight.

7. I thought that keeping this look as subtle as possible would be key, so I skipped the top eyeliner and instead used the same pencil brush to apply the dark matte brown color under my lower lash line.

8. I then curled my lashes (I used my eyelash curler from Tarte) and applied my Maybelline Volum’Express The Falsies Flared Mascara to create beautiful, long lashes.

Look #2: Spring Fever

I really wanted to include a springtime look in this week’s post that was out of the ordinary — something that might be a little out of one’s normal comfort zone — and I think this is the one!

This look uses purple, green, and blue eyeshadows, yet is still totally wearable for day or night. Just pack on the colors to your liking. (My version – which could work for a fun lunch out with friends – is a little more bright yet subtle/watercolor-y in person, if that makes sense. I’d add more color for a bold night look.)

Tutorial:

1. With a flat shader brush, I packed the light matte violet color all over the lids.

2. Using a fluffy blending brush, I blended the matte blue color into the crease.

3. With a small pencil brush, I created a ‘V’ shape into the outer lid/crease.

4. Using the small pencil brush provided in the palette, I took the matte green color and placed it on my lower lash line to give a beautiful springy vibe.

5. With the other brush given in the palette (flat shader brush), I took the matte white color and put it in my inner corners to brighten them up.

6. Next, I used the same white eyeshadow under my brow bone as a highlight.

7. I took my favorite liquid eyeliner and created a medium sized cat eyeliner wing.

8. Finally, I curled my lashes and applied a boatload of mascara.

Look #3: Pansies before Dark

This look is so unexpected yet totally wearable and that’s why I love it. The combination of yellow and purple eyeshadow reminds me of the colors of a pansy, and the combo looks strikingly beautiful on the eyes!

Tutorial:

1. With a flat shader brush, I packed on the matte yellow color all over my eyelids.

2. With a fluffy blending brush, I blended the dark matte brown color into my crease to add dimension.

3. With the small brush provided in the palette, I applied the matte white color into my inner corners (as well as under my brown bone as a highlight) to brighten my eyes.

4. With the other small brush provided in the palette, I packed on the matte violet color and swept that under my lower lash line to add a pop of unexpected color.

5. Next, I applied some winged eyeliner with a liquid liner. (You guys know I love my liquid liner!)

6. Lastly, I curled my lashes and applied several coats of mascara. This really open my eyes, making them (and the color) pop!

Look #4: Blue Under-Eye Smokey Eye

With this eye look, I wanted to take the infamous under-eye smokey eye and incorporate color into it. I love that there’s an unexpected spark of yellow in the inner corners as well as some blue that is blended under the lower lash line.

This look in particular is all about keeping the top of the eye as light as possible, while also including some subtle shading, and having the main focus be on the dramatic lower lash line.

Tutorial:

1. With a big eyeshadow brush, I swept the matte white color all over the lids.

2. Taking a fluffy blending brush, I blended the matte brown color into the crease.

3. Using the same bush, I added some matte black into the same area, in order to create more dimension. Remember to use a light hand when applying, since the colors are extremely pigmented and you want to try to keep the top of the lids as subtle as possible.

4. Using the small brush provided in the palette, I applied the matte yellow color into the inner corner of my eyelids to brighten up my eyes and add a pop of color.

5. After cleaning off that brush, I then picked up the matte blue color and ran that along my lower lashes to start building up the smokey eye.

6. Of course once the eyeshadow is completed it is now time for the eyeliner (skip it if you’re not as obsessed as I am), so I created a dramatic cat eyeliner effect to bring all the colors together using the same liquid liner as before.

7. I then took my black eyeliner and ran this along my lower water line as well as my lower lash line to really darken up the look.

8. Then I curled my lashes and applied two coats of mascara to really darken up the look and add lots more drama – perfect for a night out!

Thoughts?

To me, this post is all about challenging yourself to incorporate more color into your everyday eyeshadow looks. You’ll be surprised by how good it looks to just add a pop of color into your everyday makeup routine. So unexpected and perfect for the season!

Now I want to hear from you! Do you like the tutorials? Will you be trying any of these out? Which one was your favorite? What do you think of this eyeshadow palette? What other beauty tutorials would you like to see me do? Let me know by leaving a comment!

There’s no doubt about it: the baseball cap is a classic look. It’s the perfect solution for a bad hair day, playing sports, dog walking, or pulling a ponytail through while running errands. However, this season, the baseball cap has traded up its ragged look for something more runway-friendly.

Baseball caps are beginning to look increasingly fashion-forward these days, and it’s a look we are totally excited about.

The varieties of chic baseball caps are endless. Some hats are punctured with studs and washers, some have strips of leather, and the more feminine styles have floral prints. There’s definitely a trendy style out there for everyone, but don’t completely replace your favorite Cubs cap yet – this trend could definitely be of the “short-lived fad” variety.

Regardless of the trend’s staying power, though, you might want to grab a cheap style to throw on during your next bad hair day. Check out a few of our fave fashionable picks below:

Products (L-R): ASOS, Madewell, Urban Outfitters

Would you wear a fashionable baseball cap?

Or do you prefer your trusty, worn-in team hat? Do you think these cutting-edge styles will be around for the long haul? Leave us a comment below and let us know!

So, for this week’s Fabulous Find, we found a stylish and inexpensive denim jacket from Lauren Conrad’s super-cute line for Kohl’s. This moto-style cut adds a bit of edge to a classic wardrobe staple, while the light-wash denim is perfect for summertime.

Want to see the jacket? Scroll down to check it out, as well as three trendy ways to wear it this season:

The Jacket:

LC Lauren Conrad Denim Motorcycle Jacket in Light Indigo — $27.20 at Kohl’s

Outfit Inspiration

If you like this cute, versatile, and budget-friendly jacket, then you’re going to love the outfits we put together for inspiration. Read on to find out three stylish ways to wear this week’s Fabulous Find:

Outfit #1: Dressed Down Glam

Product Info: Jacket- Kohl’s, Dress- Zara, Bag- DSW, Earrings- Lucky Brand, Shoes- Aldo

This first look would be a chic choice for a dinner date or a casual evening out. Start by pairing a pretty strapless dress with our Fab Find — not only does this provide some extra coverage, but it’s ideal for cool summer nights. Red wedges pick up on the color of the dress, while a studded bag adds interest. For the finishing touch, accessorize with some statement-making chandelier earrings.

Outfit #2: Lace & Fringe

Product Info: Jacket- Kohl’s, Top- Urban Outfitters, Bag- Charlotte Russe, Shorts- Tilly’s, Sunglasses- Nordstrom, Shoes- Ruche, Necklace- Pret-a-Beaute

For a casual, yet uber-trendy daytime look, pair a comfy tank top with a pair of lace shorts. Layer on the denim jacket, then add a pair of printed ankle strap flats. Accessorize with a long necklace — this skull one has a cute, yet slightly eerie vibe. Slip on a pair of aviator shades and grab a fringed handbag to complete the ensemble.

Outfit #3: Summer Lovin’

Product Info: Jacket- Kohl’s, Top- River Island, Skirt- Forever 21, Shoes- ModCloth, Bag- Target, Ring- Forever 21

Crop tops are popular this season, and this final outfit represents an adorable way to wear one, especially if you aren’t fond of showing too much skin.

To get this look, pair a cropped tee with a high-waisted hi-low skirt, then add our Fab Find for a casual, yet polished ensemble. Braided sandals keep things comfy, while a geometric knuckle ring adds an edgy touch. Last but not least, accessorize with a deep green cross-body bag.

Your thoughts?

What do you think of this week’s Fabulous Find? Would you buy this jacket from Kohl’s? Which look is your favorite? How would you wear the jacket? Remember to leave a comment below and tell us what you think!

Every week, I scour the web to find inspiring outfits on your favorite celebs and help you recreate their looks! This week, I was inspired by Bella Thorne, Alexa Chung, and Zoe Saldana. Read on to see how you can get their looks for yourself.

Look 1: Bella Thorne’s Sweet Floral Look

Photo: Pacific Coast News

Bella Thorne looked sweet, yet sassy in a pair of silky floral print shorts and a lightweight white sweater, with brightly-colored strappy sandals and a matching necklace.

Bella’s ensemble is perfect for the spring and summer seasons, plus the floral print of her shorts makes a fun statement. Her accessories are what really pull everything together, though – the bold aqua color of her heels and necklace make her look stand out for day or night.

Outfit Inspired by Bella

Shorts, Sweater, Necklace, Bracelet, Sandals

While Bella’s killer heels are gorg, I opted for some flat sandals in a similar color and design for a more daytime-friendly version of her look. (These shoes should be a bit more comfortable than the stilettos!) The aqua hue is not a typical color, especially for footwear, so it really stands out – especially when paired with an aqua teardrop bib necklace.

Floral shorts make a sweet statement for spring or summer, and can be dressed up or down. Here, we went for a casual vibe by pairing them with this white cropped sweater – the perfect canvas for all of the other bright colors in the outfit. A simple bracelet (this one features a cute heart) is all you need to finish the look.

Look 2: Alexa Chung’s Classic Casual Look

Photo: Pacific Coast News

Alexa Chung kept her outfit clean and classic for a casual day around town. She wore denim cutoff shorts with a striped top, white lace-up sneakers, and some super cool sunglasses. Her vintage-esque jean shorts are very trendy for spring, and her awesome sunglasses add a polished touch.

Alexa’s look is a great example of a laid-back daytime outfit that’s comfy and casual yet still super chic.

Outfit Inspired by Alexa

Shorts, Top, Sneakers, Sunglasses, Bag

High-waisted, vintage-inspired denim shorts have been a big trend for a while now, and these concert and festival favorites look just as fab for casual daytime ensembles. For an easygoing look like Alexa’s, pair them with a classic, clean striped top and white lace-up sneakers – these Superga ones are a celeb favorite and won’t break the bank.

Accessorize with standout sunglasses, like these floral print D-frame ones, which make for a cool contrast with the top. Finally, a simple, yet cute monogrammed canvas bag completes the look.

Look 3: Zoe Saldana’s Summery Tunic Look

Photo: Pacific Coast News

Zoe Saldana wore a feminine, breezy ensemble while filming a TV show in LA this week. She wore white shorts with a dusty rose tunic top, contrasted with some bright blue heels for a pop of color. Her outfit is great for a summer night out or a dressier daytime occasion – I love the unique vibe that her simple top gives off.

Outfit Inspired by Zoe

Shorts, Tunic, Sandals, Cuff Bracelet, Bag

I can’t wait to try out a variation on Zoe’s outfit as the weather warms up. White shorts pair perfectly with this pretty polka dot tunic that sports a beaded neckline, which makes a statement on its own. Turquoise faux suede fringe sandals add a fab pop of color and keep with the breezy vibe of the tunic. A simple cream shoulder bag and gold cuff bracelet are all you need to complete the look.

What do you think?

Which celebrity’s street style look is your favorite? Which outfit would you be most likely to wear? Leave a comment and let us know!

Last year, we announced that Nordstrom would be launching in-store Topshop departments, and now WWD is reporting that the brands’ partnership will be expanding significantly.

Currently, Nordstrom has Topshop departments at 14 of their U.S. locations, but this will expand to another 28 stores this fall, either in late September and October. By early 2014, the Topshop line will also be carried at an additional 30 Nordstrom locations.

Nordstrom’s President of Merchandising, Pete Nordstrom explained the reason behind the expansion:

“It behooves both Topshop and us to get it going as quickly as possible. I would say in general it’s been productive — more productive than the average department in women’s. So, when you combine that with the fact that it attracts a lot of new customers as well, it’s been a good thing for us.”

Your thoughts?

Do you normally shop at Nordstrom? Are you excited that the Topshop and Nordstrom partnership is expanding? Have you ever shopped at an in-store Topshop department? Tell us what you think by leaving a comment below!

Welcome to the latest edition of Ask CF! Every few weeks, we select a reader fashion question and answer it here on the site. Do you have a specific fashion question for us? Scroll to the bottom of this post to learn how to send it our way!

Ask CF Question

Dear CF,

I am looking to get a new pair of sunglasses. I have always leaned toward more neutral styles, but I want to find a pair that’s a little more out there and exciting. Can you point me to some popular sunglass trends that are hot this season?

Sincerely,

Searching for Sunnies

Our Response

Dear Searching for Sunnies,

Whenever I’m shopping for sunglasses, standing in front of the display, I’ve been known to get a little overwhelmed. With so many different styles, colors, and extra features to choose from, the task of choosing one pair begins to feel incredibly daunting.

We’ve done a comprehensive guide to choosing flattering sunglasses for your face shape before. But in this post, we will help you choose an of-the-moment pair by highlighting our favorite sunglass styles for Spring/Summer 2013: cat-eye, circle, half-frame, and mirrored lenses.

This season more than ever, sunglasses are statement accessories. Whether they are jeweled, bedazzled, or decorated, have mirrored lenses, or come in a surprising color (anything ranging from bright orange to clear) sunglasses are having a major moment this season. Because of this, finding fun and exciting styles shouldn’t be difficult.

So go on; try on a few pairs, find ones that complement your unique personality, and protect those peepers in style!

Sincerely,

Jessica

Cat-eye Sunglasses

Product Information: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

This retro sunglass style has been around for a long time and we don’t see it going anywhere anytime soon.

Cat-eye styles are not only cute – they’re flattering on most face shapes to boot. Plus, with varying levels of cat-eye intensity, you can choose an extreme pair like the glittered ones from ASOS, or go for something more subtle, like the tortoise sunnies from Urban Outfitters .

Circle Sunglasses

Product Information: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Circle frames harken back to the age of Aquarius, but that doesn’t mean they are an outdated style. This spring and summer, circle sunnies are seeing a major comeback. Also, because sunglass designs are becoming so experimental, you can find round sunnies featuring fun patterns, colors, and even added decorations like this pair with birds on them.

Just a heads up: Circle frames tend to look best on angular faces. But don’t be afraid to give them a shot and try them on even if your face is round. Every face and pair is unique and you’ll never know what could look great on you until you try!

Half-frame Sunglasses

Product Information: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

The half-frame sunglass style is a fun and modern take on a classic. Some of these glasses feature circle lenses while others are more oblong. The frame itself is typically more angular which helps to make this style flattering for most faces.

If you like to make a statement, this is the style for you: With this sunglass shape, it is particularly easy to find vibrantly colored and excitingly patterned frames, as evidenced by the selection above.

Mirrored Lens Sunglasses

Product Information: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

A final trend that I need to include is mirrored lens sunglasses.

While the previous three sunglass styles focused on the shape of the frames, this trend focuses on the lens itself. These mirrored styles have recently been spotted on countless celebrities, fashion editors, and bloggers so you know that they are going to be everywhere this season. If you like to be ahead of the fashion curve, these are the frames to buy.

Do you have a fashion question? Send it our way!

Is there something in your closet that you can’t seem to figure out how to wear? Do you have an event coming up and need an outfit idea? Do you have a specific fashion conundrum you need help with?

If you have a question you want to see answered in this column, just send it on over via email to askcf  @ collegefashion.net and one day you might see your question answered right here on the site!

Please note: We get A LOT of email and unfortunately we will not be able to respond to every single question. However, we will read through each question and then decide which ones will be most helpful to the most readers. Thank you for your understanding.

What do you think?

What do you think of these sunglass trends? Do you have a favorite style? How about a favorite pair? Do you typically wear neutral sunglasses or statement sunglasses? Please let us know what you think by leaving a comment below!  

As the summer arrives, you may notice some empty space in your schedule. (Or, it might get busier than ever, in which case you’ll need a good way to de-stress.) Last week, we featured 10 Movies and Shows to Stream on Netflix this Summer, and now that we have our queues in order, it’s time to consider a more old-fashioned way to relax and pass the time: a good book!

The best thing about summer is that since you’re not drowning in assigned class readings, you have a chance to whittle down your reading list. To me, summer is the perfect time to revisit all of my favorite books. There is just something special about lounging in the sun with a novel that I already know and love.

Below, I’ve complied a list of my five favorite classic novels that are begging to be read over and over again. (And if you haven’t read them at all yet, now is the time!) So, dig out that library card, or take a few minutes to update your E-readers. However you choose to indulge, simply scroll on down to check out the books:

1. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Book Cover via Amazon

This American classic has probably been a part of at least one syllabus in your academic career, but it’s a classic for a reason. The Catcher in the Rye tells a story to which we can all relate. It will make you laugh and it will make you cry, and you will be totally engaged every step of the way. We even covered fashion from the novel in one of our Looks from Books posts!

The J.D. Salinger novel is narrated by Holden Caulfield, a struggling teen growing up around 1950. It is the quintessential coming-of-age story about a boy who must come to terms with the circumstances of growing up. Holden often feels alienated and alone, which is what makes him so endearing.

Full of both humor and heartache, Holden’s narration makes for an extremely enticing and relatable story. We learn to appreciate a lot about life, love, and growing up as we follow Holden’s adventure —just sit back and enjoy the ride.

2. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Book Cover via Amazon

With all the hoopla surrounding Baz Luhrmann’s new movie that was released last week, it would be sacrilege to exclude this book! Luckily, The Great Gatsby is a story that begs to be read and re-read.

F. Scott Fitzgerald‘s novel follows Jay Gatsby, a young self-made millionaire pining for the gorgeous – and careless – Daisy Buchanan. It is a brilliant and fascinating portrayal of the jazz age, a period with a magical allure that still appeals today. Also, the forbidden romance creates an intoxicating story – one that you will certainly enjoy on a balmy summer afternoon!

3. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

Book Cover via Amazon

The Perk of Being a Wallflower technically belongs in the “cult classic” category, but I consider it a classic nonetheless. With the movie adaptation premiering last fall, this story was launched into the national spotlight.

Regardless of whether or not you’ve seen the flick (which I highly recommend if you haven’t), Stephen Chbosky‘s book is an absolute must-read! It’s full of inspiration, and is an extremely quick and easy read — perfect for a lazy summer day.

The novel is written through a series of letters penned by an anonymous high school freshman who calls himself Charlie. Through a series of ups and downs, Charlie experiences his first year in this new world. He is taken under the wings of Patrick and Sam, who each have their own captivating stories. In this year, Charlie learns a lot about life and the meaning of love. It’s an extremely relatable story, one that will really make you reflect on the important things in life.

4. The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

Book Cover via Amazon

For many, this is another novel that has been a reading assignment at some point in the past, but this S.E. Hinton classic has the perfect amount of drama and thrill to warrant a second (or third, or fourth) read.

The Outsiders (another Looks from Books pick) tells the story of two rival high school gangs, the Greasers and the Socs. Split by their socioeconomic status, the two groups often “rumble” to assert their dominance over one another. This often results in tragedy, but it’s the kind of heartache that will leave you begging for more. The brotherhood between the Greasers is also a perfect depiction of loyalty and friendship, which makes the story even more enjoyable.

(Note: After you’ve read this novel, you should definitely watch the 1983 film adaption. Prepare yourself for two hours of reveling in the beautiful young faces of soon-to-be-stars like Tom Cruise, Patrick Swayze, Matt Dillion, Rob Lowe, C. Thomas Howell, Emilio Estevez, and Ralph Macchio… It is almost too much to handle.)

5. Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut

Book Cover via Amazon

Kurt Vonnegut is one of my favorite writers of all-time. The first time I picked up a Vonnegut story, he dismantled my belief that I was not a fan of science fiction. His skill for injecting reality and humor into sci-fi makes for some truly fascinating pieces of literature, like Slaughterhouse-Five.

This novel follows the story of Billy Pilgrim, a wealthy optometrist who was once an American soldier in WWII. After being abducted by aliens, Billy becomes “unstuck” in time. This allows him to time travel to different periods in his life, though he has no control over where he goes. These experiences lead Billy to a new understanding of life; one that readers will learn to appreciate as well.

Though the story can be a bit tough to follow at times, that is part of what makes it so exciting. Plus, whether or not you are a Sci-Fi fan, this story will have you totally hooked until the end.

Final Thoughts:

Of course, there are tons of recent bestsellers that you should definitely check out this summer, too! The novels listed above are just a few of my favorites, and ones that I think are perfect for re-reading in the summertime.

No matter what book you choose to grab, take advantage of the opportunity to read something other than a textbook. There is nothing better than lounging on a beach chair with a real page-turner in hand. Happy reading!

Your Thoughts?

What do you think of this summer reading list? What other books would you recommend revisiting? What books do you plan to read this summer? Let us hear your thoughts in the comments section!

With the season four premiere of Arrested Development just one week away, we decided to celebrate our love for this critically acclaimed comedy with a fashion post inspired by the dysfunctional, yet hilarious Bluth family.

In case you hadn’t heard, Arrested Development is being brought back from the depths of cancellation (after 7 years!) with a brand-new season that will stream exclusively on Netflix starting May 26th. (We could not be more excited!)

Never seen the show? The opening credits sum up the basic premise and all the familial relations perfectly:

Want to channel the style of your favorite character? Simply scroll down to check out four outfits inspired by members of the Bluth family:

Michael Bluth

Photo Credits

After his father is arrested for fraud and some “light treason,” it’s up to middle son Michael (Jason Bateman) to clean up the Bluth family’s image and sort through their financial and legal problems. Always the straight-man, Michael sticks by his motto of “family first” — even when they have him at his wit’s end. Also? Michael has the best facial expressions. Ever.

Outfit Inspired by Michael:

Product Info: Notebook- Cafepress, Blazer- JCP, Blouse- Tilly’s, Pants- Gap, Bag- Nordstrom, Bracelet- Etsy, Shoes- DSW, Watch- Urban Outfitters

Show them you’re worthy of running the (Bluth) company at your summer job or internship with this stylish business casual ensemble. Michael typically pairs light-colored trousers with a darker jacket, which is exactly what we did for this look. Add a textured button-up and ribbon-laced oxfords to give this traditional menswear-inspired outfit a slightly feminine vibe.

The bicycle-shaped bracelet is a nod to Michael’s main mode of transportation — aside from the stair car, of course — while a classic wristwatch is just as grounded and practical as Michael. Add a pop of color with a sturdy red satchel, then grab a notebook inspired by the infamous Bluth chicken dance. (Has anyone in this family ever even seen a chicken?)

Maeby Fünke

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Always the quick-witted schemer, Michael’s niece Maeby (Alia Shawkat) eventually moved on from her oft-failed attempts to rebel against her parents and conned her way into a job as a movie studio executive — at 15. Needless to say… marry me!

Outfit Inspired by Maeby:

Product Info: Tee- Topshop, Jacket- H&M, Skirt- Nasty Gal, Ring- Wet Seal, Pin- Etsy, Curling Iron- Target, Shoes- Target

Maeby rocked mixed prints long before they were popular, so we’re going to recreate her style by pairing a striped tee with a printed A-line skirt. Add a versatile denim jacket as well as a pair of comfy canvas sneakers for a cute and low-key summertime look.

Accessorize with one of those rings with a “T” on it, then pin on a button donning Maeby’s catchphrase. Last but not least, use a curling iron to style your hair and get curly locks like Maeby’s.

Lucille Bluth

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Michael’s mom Lucille (Jessica Walter) may not have the milk of mother’s kindness in her anymore, but she is the master of the well-timed eyeroll. Although she’s critical, conniving, and pretentious, Lucille is without a doubt my favorite character on the show. Why, you ask? I don’t understand the question, and I won’t respond to it.

Outfit Inspired by Lucille:

Product Info: Cardigan- L.L. Bean, Blouse- Lord & Taylor, Ring- Fantasy Jewelery Box, Phone Case- Kate Spade, Skirt- J. Crew, Earrings- Kate Spade, Shoes- Sole Society

To Lucille, social status is everything, so mimic her prim and polished look with a lilac-colored pencil skirt and luxe ruffled blouse. Layer on a matching floral print cardigan, then add a fashion-forward touch with a pair of yellow-trimmed ankle strap pumps. Lucille doesn’t skimp on the accessories, so adorn yourself with a flashy cocktail ring and classic pearl earrings. Lastly, swap our your phone case with one that pays homage her fabulous wink.

This outfit would be a stylish choice for a nice dinner out or a similar dressy event. Wherever you go in this ensemble, just be sure to channel your inner-Lucille (if you’re 21-plus, of course!) and order a vodka rocks.

Tobias Fünke

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Tobias (David Cross) is not only Michael’s brother-in-law and Maeby’s father, but he’s also the world’s first analyst and therapist. He has an affinity for (unintentionally) spewing hilarious double-entendres, which has the rest of the Bluth family wondering about, well, The Man Inside Him.

Outfit Inspired by Tobias:

Product Info: Blouse- Nordstrom, Cardigan- Urban Outfitters, Nail Polish- Essie, Ring- Accessorize, Shorts- H&M, Shoes- Lucky Brand, Sunglasses- Topshop

Since Tobias is a never nude (it’s exactly what it sounds like), snag his look by pairing denim cut-offs with a colorful printed peasant blouse. A lightweight knit cardigan and slip-on sandals continue the casual feel of this summer-appropriate outfit.

Accessorize with a mustache-shaped ring and circle sunglasses — stylish versions of Tobias’ facial hair and glasses, respectively. For the finishing touch, blue yourself with a coat of cobalt-colored nail polish.

So, are you excited for the return of Arrested Development?

Which character is your favorite? Whose style do you like best? What do think of the outfits? Tell me your thoughts by leaving a comment below!