SOCIAL MEDIA

Friday, May 29, 2015

TGIF

It's summer! I could not be more happy that summer has finally arrived. Those last few finals were rough and I had zero motivation to end the school year on a strong note. Thankfully I only had three actual finals this year and two final projects. But now it's summer and I couldn't be more excited! I think this summer is going to be so much fun and then going into senior year will bring along more fun. Oh, I'm just so excited! I'm hoping that you too are done with school or getting done soon at least!

Here's a few links to start off your weekend!

+BuzzFeed compiled the best senior quotes and they are seriously too funny. I loved reading all of them!

+Summer has arrived and one of my top goals this summer is to actually utilize my Instagram account. Stay tuned and be sure you're following me @sprinklesofkate

+An amazing core workout to start your summer off right and get that beach body!

+Feeling nostalgic? I couldn't help but get psyched for my last final today while listening to "What Time Is It"

+All I've been reading recently is Gal Meets Glam; Julia is seriously my new obsession

+Dying to try this lemonade recipe and this limeade recipe!

Have a great weekend!

Xo
Thursday, May 28, 2015

No-Heat Hairstyles

Last August I chopped at least six inches form my hair and it seemed like such an amazing decision at the time. It was nice to have short hair for a little while, but because my hair is naturally wavy I had to style it every day for it to look somewhat acceptable. During the school year I can recall maybe five times that I didn't straighten my hair in the first semester. Even though I was styling it every day, my hair was shorter so it took only a fraction of the time. With summer here though I'm totally over the whole "taking time to fry it up" look. I love having straightened or curled hair, but this summer especially I'm going to try and leave my hair natural as much as possible. I definitely need a haircut, but I've finally noticed my hair growing out and I'm not quite ready to get an inch off. Because I'll be wearing my natural hair this summer I've compiled a few heatless hairstyles that are super easy and look great! I'm not totally in love with my natural hair, but I've been trying to accept it more now and just learn to let it flow free. I'm also a huge fan of wearing my hair up (especially when it's hot) so these hairstyles are totally perfect for that!

In all of these looks texture is everything. Embrace your messy hair! If your hair has a softer, more brushed look to it invest in a sea salt or texturizing spray to enhance it's feel. Or visit the ocean to get true beach waves! 

 Wear your hair natural or add some beach spray to get these messy waves. Add a simple messy braid in the back tied with a clear elastic to add a bit of texture to the look.
 I don't think I could necessarily rock this look, but I know many that have and look amazing! Braid your hair and cross them over your head for perfect milkmaid braids. Switch up your braids like the one in the image, mixing classic and fishtail styles. 
I've seen so many people wearing these mini topknots and they look so cute! Just throw half of your hair up into a messy bun and you're set! 
Slick your hair back into a high ponytail and wrap a small piece around the hair tie and secure with a bobby pin. Twist your hair and add clear elastics a few inches away from each other on the ponytail. This is such a simple, yet pretty way to add some texture to a classic ponytail. 

What are your favorite no-heat hairstyles? I'm looking for some new ones to try!

Xo
Wednesday, May 27, 2015

The Perfect Stack

courtesy Southern Curls & Pearls
I'm really not hugely into jewelry, but I do love adding some accessories here and there. One of my favorite way of glam-ing up a look is with a stack of bracelets. My most worn bracelets are definitely my Alex & Ani's  because it's super easy to throw on a bunch. I also love this Madewell bangle because it matches everything and has such cool geometric cut outs. I've compiled a few of my favorite bracelets that are super easy to mix and match. I'm definitely always wearing gold; silver is just not my style. I've mixed a few different bangles, watches and wrap bracelets to collate many different bracelet combinations. Wear just one, two or wear all of them! The possibilities are endless!
Which bracelet is your favorite?

Xo


Tuesday, May 26, 2015

Live Smart Series Chicago

Last summer I was so lucky to have the opportunity to attend the first ever Smart Girls Conference in NYC. It was such an amazing experience! Meeting so many amazing bloggers and listening to so many amazing speakers was such a thrilling experience. Not to mention New York City has to be one of my favorite places! I regret to inform that I will not be attending the New York conference this summer because I'll be in Hawaii, but...I'm attending the Live Smart Series Chicago! I couldn't be more excited to hear unbelievable speakers and meet some fabulous people! If you have the opportunity to attend either conference definitely go for it! It's such an amazing experience! Also, let me know if you're coming to Chicago for the conference, I'd love to meet you! I'm so happy they have a conference in Chicago this year because I live so close! Hopefully next year I can attend both, but I'm looking forward to hearing about the NYC too! 

Here are a couple snaps from last summer in NYC!


The highlights of my trip would have to include exploring NYC for the first time and meeting such awesome girls like AnnaHunterCarolineFrannieSammy and Maggie!

Are you going to either conference this summer?

Xo
Monday, May 25, 2015

Memorial Day Sales

Every holiday always come with amazing sales and this Memorial Day is no exception! I've rounded up the best sales of the weekend along with my favorite picks! Shop all of them below!

ASOS // 20% off with code LONGWKND

Nordstrom (Half-Yearly Sale) // Up to 40% off!

Rebecca Minkoff // Up to 50% off sale!

Macy's // Extra 20% off with code HOORAY


A few extra sales + codes...

J.Crew Factory 50% off everything in stores & online
Ralph Lauren extra 30% off select items with code RLMEM15
Michael Kors 30% off in stores & online
Rag & Bone up to 50% off + free shipping
Bloomingdale's extra 20% off sale and clearance with code SPRING20

Happy Memorial Day!

Xo
Friday, May 22, 2015

TGIF

Happy (long) weekend! I'm excited to spend memorial day poolside at my cousin's graduation party. Next week is finals so you can bet I'll be studying over the weekend and next week. Posts may be a bit sporadic (as they have been), but once summer comes along I'll be back posting five days a week. Oh! And more outfit posts to come! If there's anything you'd like to see on this blog definitely let me know--I want to please my readers! Here are a few things I've been loving this week!

1. I'm not sure how I never saw this NY times article about KJP! I realized I totally didn't even know his story until reading this. What a shock to know that he never went to college! I was totally under the impression that KJP and Sarah were both raised with old money and were continuing this lifestyle. This is not the case! The article is super interesting and gives an inside look to Kiel and Sarah!

2. The Nordstrom Half-Yearly sale is in full swing! Some of my favorites include this scallop top, an adorable Kendra Scott cuff, and these Zella leggings. Definitely check out the sale--there's so many things for amazing prices!

3. Have you seen the "Bad Blood" music video? Get on it girl! You're missing out if you haven't!

4. OBSESSED with these beach dresses by SUNDRESS. They're seriously too cute!

5. Make sure you're following me on PinterestTumblr, and Instagram if you like what you're seeing here. And join my site via Google friend connect if you haven't already!

I hope you have a fabulous Memorial Day weekend! Soak up the sun!

Xo
Wednesday, May 20, 2015

Summer Staples

I can't believe summer is almost here! I've been dreaming of summer practically since the start of the school year and it's crazy to think it is almost here. Next week is just finals so this is the last week of real school. Here are a few pieces that I'm obsessing over for this summer. 


Summer Staples

I'm in love with this navy J.Crew suit and I think it's #1 on my list for summer. Tory Burch has been killing it with their recent styles and I'm loving these espadrilles and wedges from her newest collection. It looks like blue hues are in once again--I'm not arguing, it's my favorite color!

What are you loving for summer?

Xo
Monday, May 18, 2015

Prom Recap

Prom was last weekend and I promised I'd share some pictures. The dance wasn't all that great, but I still had a good time! I was absolutely in love with my dress and I'm already looking for another occasion to wear it. It is so stunning and I'm obsessed with the silver beading on it. Not to mention I received so many compliments on it. And it's super comfy too! I opted out of wearing heels and wore silver Jack's instead. Such a great decision! I was so comfortable the entire night. 

I ended up getting a spray tan for the dance (LOL--I know) and it actually was so worth it. I wasn't sure if it would be too much, but because my dress was pastel it looked so good. And I'm loving the fact that I'm tan now haha. Here are a few photos from the night!

Xo
Friday, May 15, 2015

TGIF

How stunning is this view?

Seriously, thank God it's Friday! This weekend is fun filled with prom festivities! I'm super excited for prom and having a fun, glamorous night! This upcoming week is my last week of school because after that it's just finals! I'm so excited for the year to come to a close but I still have plenty of things I need to accomplish before the end of the year. 

I'll be sure to share photos from this weekend next week--hopefully they turn out! Here's what I've been loving this week. 

I'm obsessed with all of Caitlin's photos from Cabo San Lucas! I've been dreaming of a tropical vacation recently and I'm totally loving all of her fun and bright pieces she brought along for her trip. 

Thinking about filming a Q&A video...let me know if this is something you would be interested in seeing!

KJP is in Tokyo! Follow his travels on Instagram or add him on Snapchat @kieljp!

I'm in love with these Tory Burch espadrilles. I'm convinced they need to be added to my collection ASAP! They seem so versatile and comfortable!

I hope you have an amazing weekend!

Xo
Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Prom Hair Ideas & Help Needed!

Prom is quickly approaching this Saturday and I seem to be leaving everything until the last minute. I have pretty much everything I need, but my one last task is my hair. I've been contemplating getting it done or just doing it myself, but that all depends on what you guys think! I thought going to DryBar and getting a mai tai or cosmo tai would be a super cute hair look with my dress. But, of course I've been scouring Pinterest for inspiration as well. Leave a comment below how you think I should do my hair for prom--it'll really help me out! Here's the link one more time for my dress




Xo
Monday, May 11, 2015

4 Bloggers To Be Obsessed With

Although I am a blogger myself, I don't read a ton of other blogs. I have a very small group of favorites that I tend to read every single day. Today I'm sharing with you four of my absolute favorites. I feel that these blogs are absolutely worth your time to check out daily because their content is so fabulous! These are my top four blogger picks!
 Southern Curls & Pearls // I'm utterly obsessed with every single outfit that Caitlin puts together. She has the greatest taste in clothes! We also share the same obsession with tassels and great shoes. Totally worth checking her out!
 Citrus + Style // Caroline is one of the sweetest girls in real life, and her blog is so adorable! Her outfits are always so cute and she talks about something new each day. I always look forward to seeing what she's writing about each day -- her content is so diverse!
 Gal Meets Glam // First can we talk about how stunning Julia is? Her hair is absolutely gorgeous! Her husband is a photographer and her blog is chock full of amazing photos featuring amazing outfits. She travels quite often too and her travel photos are always so beautiful!
The College Prepster // I was fortunate enough to meet Carly in NYC last summer and she's seriously so perfect! Her outfits are absolutely adorable and my obsession with Teddy is unreal! Her and Garret are the cutest couple too...literally goals. Carly is such a fabulous writer and she writes about so many different topics. Her posts are always super personal too and I really like that about her.

I'm always looking for more blogs to check out...what are your favorites?

Xo
Friday, May 8, 2015

TGIF

Boy am I happy it's Friday! This week surprisingly flew by and school wasn't too stressful overall. Badminton ended last week so this week it was so nice being able to come home after school and actually having time to do things! Drill team runs right into badminton season so I rarely ever get days off. The only thing is...I'm getting bored. I'm so used to having something to do right after school that now when I get home I'm not sure what to do besides doing homework! The nice thing is that the weather has warmed up so I've been going running, walking and biking with friends to spend my free time. 

Here are a few things I've been loving this week.

I've been pretty addicted to Tumblr recently, are you following me?

So excited to finally announce that this is my prom dress! I'm obsessed with the baby blue color -- it reminds me of Cinderella!

PSA: I need hair help! I've been debating on what type of style I should go for for prom! Comment below!

J.Crew Factory is having a sale in stores and online with 40-60% off everything. I'm definitely going to swing by my local store and see if I can snag any jewelry for prom. 

Maxie McCoy is my new obsession -- she's perfect! Check out her newly launched website here!

I'm obsessed with Julia's look in the Bahamas! It's making me even more excited to head to Hawaii this summer for a tropical vacation!

It's crunch time during school these next two weeks. Finish strong and stay focused by using Self Control. I swear by this to force me to get focused because I'm not allowed to go on my favorite sites for a set amount of time!

Have a fabulous weekend!

Xo
Thursday, May 7, 2015

The Perfect Workspace

I know I'm not the only one who needs a great workplace to get things done. Personally I like my desk with as little clutter as possible and things around it to inspire me. I always keep different quotes I find on Pinterest tacked to my bulletin board to add some color and a little bit of inspiration. Keeping my calendar in plain sight is another way to easily lay out my events coming up and things I have to do! 

The only issue I currently have with my desk is the size. It's just a bit too small for me to fully spread out all of my work and have my laptop on the desk. I'm not yet sure how to solve this issue, but for now I'll just do my best in using the space I have. Here are a few work spaces that I'm obsessed with and dying to recreate!

What does your perfect workspace look like?

Xo
Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Five Things You Need in Your Closet This Spring

With spring comes spring cleaning and we've been doing quite a bit of this in my house recently. I've started the dreaded process of going through my entire wardrobe and getting rid of things that I never wear or that have gone out of style. Through this process I've come along a few of my absolute favorite pieces that I feel are essential to every girl's closet. These are probably the simplest things, but they truly are things you need in your closet.

+1. A great pair of jeans // Whether they be light/dark wash, distressed or solid, owning a great pair of jeans can totally make an outfit. Wearing jeans used to be such a pain for me because once you start wearing leggings you really can never go back. I've recently re-discovered jeggings and I'm in love. My favorite pair is a medium wash with lots of distressing in them. They're seriously so easy to pair with anything and everything!

+2. White jeans // This still goes along with the previous item, but I absolutely think white jeans are essential. They match everything and for spring/summer they are absolutely imperative. I have yet to find my perfect pair of white jeans because the ones I currently own are just not my favorite. If you have a pair you love, let me know!

+3. A striped tee // I think it's safe to say that stripes look great on everyone (especially navy stripes!). My striped tees are definitely my most worn items in my closet. They're super easy to pair with things and they're trendy without ever going out of style. 

+4. LBD // You seriously can't go wrong with a killer black dress. Black is always in style and finding your perfect (and comfortable) black dress is crucial to building a better wardrobe. I own a few black dresses and I am constantly wearing them on rotation. It's super easy to dress them up as well with statement jewelry and because the dress is black you'll never look overdone.

+5. A denim jacket // I purchased my denim jacket on a whim one spring and this is my #1 worn piece in my closet. It is the perfect way to add a layer during the chilly late fall/early spring months. I love how effortless it is to add a jean jacket on top of anything as a light coat. 

What are your essentials this spring?

Xo
Tuesday, May 5, 2015

Super Easy Smoothie

Here we go again with another food related post! But who doesn't love food, am I right? This smoothie is my go-to when I'm feeling something sweet and easy in the mornings. This combination of fruits is just one of the many different ways to make super delicious smoothies! I love making smoothies -- especially on the weekends. And as the weather gets warmer smoothies are a super easy way to cool off in a healthy way!

This recipe can also be used to make a smoothie bowl! I've tried acai bowls a handful of times, but they're just not my fave. I like it better when I just make a simple smoothie with some of my favorite fruits and then sprinkle a bit of granola and coconut flakes on top. Yum! 

 +berries (straw, blue & black)
+banana
+greek yogurt
+orange juice
+a bit of ice

That's it! Just throw into a blender and blend!
I'm dying to try a few new smoothie recipes! 

I'm eager to hear...what are your favorite smoothie combinations?

Xo
Monday, May 4, 2015

5 Recipes to Try

Yum! Via recipe #4

For some strange reason I've recently been really wanting to cook! I've been exploring the internet and I've found plenty of recipes that I'm dying to try. To get back into blogging I thought I'd share a few of these fun (and healthy!) recipes.

+1. I'm eager to try at least one of these homemade granola bar recipes! They all look so yummy! Especially vanilla/blueberry and cranberry/pistachio ones!

+2. Chia seeds are all the rage and I really love them! This chia pudding looks so delicious (and super easy--only 3 ingredients)!

+3. I love pizza and this pizza has a bit of a twist: avocado! It looks so fresh and amazing with all the tasty flavors blended in!

+4. Pancakes are a brunch essential and these are a healthy alternative to classic pancakes! They're free of butter and sugar! Just top them off with some fresh fruit and you're set!

+5. These apple granola sandwiches seriously look so delicious! They're a nice option to reduce your sodium intake (instead of using bread) and have something super sweet!

What recipes are you loving/eager to try? Leave me some recommendations!

Xo
Friday, May 1, 2015

Happy May & Life Update

Happy May! 

It's been quite a long time since I've posted...I've been slacking! But, I'm back in the game with tons of posts headed your way! 

It's finally May! I've been waiting since January for my favorite month! May is just such a beautiful time of year! I'm planning lots of outfit posts and taking advantage of the warm weather to come! Also, I've been doing quite a bit of spring shopping...I think a spring haul may be on it's way! 

Coming up in just two short weeks is prom! At my school it's really just a senior prom and you don't go unless you're a senior. Although I'm only a junior, I was asked by a senior and I'm super psyched to be going to prom this year! I've been on the hunt for a dress and I think I've found it. But I'm going to wait until it's set in stone before I reveal it to you all!

With less than a month left of school it's crunch time! Badminton has come to a close (it's such a short season--only two months!) I have extra time on my hands to finish up last minute assignments and begin my studying for AP exams and finals! And more time to blog of course! I'm thinking of putting together my top tips for finals for a post as well.

Also, good news...I'm done with the ACT! I took my last ACT a few weeks ago and although I'm still waiting for my results I'm finally finished with all tutoring and test taking. Thank goodness! Junior year has been super stressful and very demanding, but I'm a little sad to see it come to a close. I've had so much fun this year socially and I'm very happy to have gone out of my comfort zone and expanded my friend group!

More to come soon!

Xo