Rain, Mist, Drizzle .::. No Rain Check Needed

Nice to see you, to see you nice,

So Autumn is officially here, and the seasons seemed like they have changed just like that!

SO... can I just say an official goodbye to long warm days and nights? With an open welcome to sweater weather--meaning that we need to break out our scarves, peacoats and other fall essentials!

Oh and it is the season of warm Starbucks again! I have gone everyday almost, I am turning into Marc Minsker :) I can't get enough of those pumpkin spice lattes!

The one thing I can't stand on the other hand is this dreary rain that has been hitting the DMV for the past 2 weeks. It has turned from gross humid rain, to cold misty drizzle. I personally prefer the latter.

But in any case, it always feels impossible to dress cute in the rain. This in fact is not impossible.

If Debbie Reynolds can pull off looking

beautiful while being down poured on, on a soundstage in Hollywood, back in 1952 in Singing in the Rain, it should be easy enough for us 58 years later. So don't put off fashion on a rain check, look cute in precipitation.

This should be your perfect rainy day outfit, which incorporates most of this fall's essentials!

Trench Coat

Oh so classy and mysterious. No need to go all out and get a long trench coat, but get one that falls to your thighs, or to your hips! Buy one in one of fall's favorite colors, you can refer to my post on Paris Fashion Week if you don't know what those colors are! You can be daring and go for a deep red or classic with neutrals, either way you will look super sophisticated. Try this one on for size, the Coffee Shop Belted Twill Long Rain Coat, it comes in a variety of colors at Target and it goes for $34.98. It has perfect in between length, so it will get the job done when you are dealing with the elements.

Scarf

Throw a fun scarf around your neck, not only does it keep your neck warm in the cold rain and wind, but it just plays up your outfit even more-- like an extra effort on such a dreary day.

Jeggings

Resist the urge to grab those sweatpants, I know you want to be comfy, but if you want to look like a million in the rain, without actually putting any effort get yourself in some jeggings. Jeggings are uber soft and comfy, and are effortless just like sweats-- but they give the illusion of effort, and look so much better!

Sperry's, Rain Boots, Boots

All three are acceptable. I love Sperry's--It comes from the inevitable Catholic School upbringing for 13 years--, I lived in them in High School, and white water raft in them, they are just so comfortable and they keep your feet dry! Rain Boots are the epitomy of rainy days, and just give off the fun vibe of "I don't care, I'll walk through this puddle...I'll even jump in it". And wearing your standard leather boots always adds a touch of class.

These elements together will make you really stand out on campus, while everyone else looks like they just rolled out of bed.

I will surely post soon about how to deal with the cold now at night when you find yourself going out.

Anyways Cheers guys and gals!

Stay fashionable slash dry!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

Transition with the Leaves

Hey yo fashion girls and guys!
It's that time of the year again, the season of soccer and football games, which means tailgates and after parties where I know everyone dresses to impress. Soon the trees in Hornbake Plaza will be a vivid gold and Willow Walk will lose its leaves.
First things first, I apologize for not posting in forever! I have been super uber busy this past month since I have been back at school. I feel like this semester my social life has been so demanding! But in honor the autumnal equinox, I thought I should give the perfect guide on how to transition into fall just like natures fashionistas-- the trees leaves-- gracefully.
I know right now it is still technically super hot out, at least today was, we even had a thunderstorm roll on by, which almost kept me from going out, but lets be serious, it is gone now which is perfect--all systems are go--but soon it will be windy and chilly for all those morning classes. This always makes it confusing for getting dressed in the mornings, it is going to be cold in the mornings but warm in the afternoon, then cold later when the sun begins to set, which drives me nuts because I can never choose if I should dress more summery or autumny--it is indeed a hard transition.

PLAN: check the weather; hour by hour.

• If it is going to be in the 70s or below, wear jeans; it is acceptable.

But, since it is still warm out wear some cute sandals, and a fun tank top!
Pack a sweater for the lecture halls they keep like the arctic too.
And if it is a particularly windy day grab your favorite lightweight scarf!

• If it is anything above 80 degrees please wear shorts, rompers, skirts, or dresses.

You can make this look autumny by wearing and oversized vest.
Make your feet look classy with some oxfords, or mocassins!

Just a friendly reminder: step away from the UGGS until the very end of fall PLEASE & THANK YOU.

Fashionable Guy Sightings: Andrew Harvey with his awesome collection of pastels and oxford shirts.
Guy I met with a red watch, always classy.

So please transition well, and don't fall all the way down with the leaves just yet, it has yet to cool down.

Enjoy how colorful the campus is going to get & GO TERPS!

Love, J'Adore, Amore,

Gabriela Mercedes

Turn Heads, Back to College 2010

Hola my fashionistas, miss me?

I just got back from Baja, and was afraid that they wouldn’t let me back in the US after practically working at the main pool in the community where our house is in Cabo. I now look like a Mexican girl, which is fine with me. Shout outs to Miguel and Israel my water aerobics instructors and to the Cabo 2010 Crew :)

Now, as the summer is winding down, it is that time again. Back to School, well now really BACK TO COLLEGE! Being a second year student at the University of Maryland, I kind of have an idea of how things work-- well sort of. But the one thing I know is fashion, and what to bring so you can turn heads once you get back on campus.What are the campus basics this fall /what are some major staples that should be in your closet? Here they are as follows!

STAPLES AND BASICS~ so worth the splurge and the investment.

 

Jeggings

 Are they jeans or are they leggings? Let's just says if jeans and leggings had a love child this would be it. They are the most comfortable things to wear if you still want to look cute and classy! It is like putting zero effort into your day but you look like you went above and beyond-- this is only true if you buy good quality jeggings. I would not recommend these if they look like actual leggings, they must look like jeans up close and from a far, but must feel soft and stretchy to the touch, and when on. I actually traveled in jeggings for my flight to Baja two weeks ago, and they were perfect-- sweatpant feel, but have the jean look. Plus kept me warm becuase they keep jets like the arctic. Why? I don't know. But in all realities jeggings are perfect for everyday use like going to class, or if you don't feel like wearing legit jeans after a night out but still want to look good. If you are looking for a good quality pair try Hollister Co.'s Jeggings in the Rinse color, I personally own these and they are amazing! They go for 29.89 now, original price was 39.50! Get them before they are gone!

Leather Tote

This tote doesn't have to be legitimately real leather, but can just look like it! So ditch your other woven totes and your boring backpacks, and add some class to your going to class look. Do your books a favor and give them a glamorous home. It really brings up your whole look up a notch. For this item, you may have to invest a bit of money because decent bags like these go for about48 dollars and up, or if you find some on sale about 29.90. But this investment is totally worth it because once you get one for one season you can always swap it out for another that you have before and use that one to match your outfit. My recommendation would to be to look at Marshall's, TJ MAx or Ross if you want to go the more Recessionista route. If not try Aldo, or Urban Outfitters. I just bought this tote for this fall, the BDG Tassel Bag. This bag goes for 58.00, but it is totally worth it! I love the tassels and all the pockets-- absolutely perf for all those gadgets and writing utensils.

Blazers

 Okay CC this is for you. Blazers are fun and are reminiscent

of prep school days. I went to a prep high school, so

blazers and I know each other quite well, even though I never wore

mine, sorry Mr. Rand...Anyways the blazers we were forced to wear were nothing compared to the ones on the market now. These are cute and wearable, and actually fit the human female body. The way you should wear a blazer is to make a casual outfit look tailored, or make a flashy dress more casual and more relaxed. American Eagle's AE Classic Blazer goes for 59.50. another investment but it is timeless,and can be used year after year.

High Waisted Shorts
Wear high waisted shorts going to class, or dress them up while going out--while it is still warm out! High waisted shorts are versatile, and look super cute on. They have a leg up on regular rise shorts because they give a casual look a dash of flair. Silence and Noise's Tailored Pleated Short, which can be found at Urban Outfitters, goes for 54.00. Urban Outfitters is primo searching space if you are looking for high waisted shorts, they also have awesome sales on these shorts.

Scarf
A basic light-weight scarf is perfect for those warm days that turn into chillier nights and mornings as autumn comes into full swing. It is like a little face lift for your outfit :) Try this scarf from American Eagle

called the AE Checkered Square Scarf, it is 19.50. Again for Reccesionista fashions, this can be found at Marshall's or Ross, for even cheaper! And for the fashionistas at UMD, the Smith School sells silk scarves at their store for 5 dollars! I

bought mine at relay for life!

Oxfords
Not the shirts, the shoes! These little guys will make your look distinguished. It is a great alternate to a ballet flats or moccasins-- they have laces! Which means they are perfect for walking to class or for random hang out sessions with friends on campus!

Best part is that there are so many to choose from, some are updated versions such as the Chelsea Crew Cut Out Oxford that goes for 58.00 at UO. (right) Or go for a more classic looking oxford like the Kimichi Blue Tear Drop Oxford, for 48.00. (left) These can be found online at urbanoutfitters.com .

Wear these with jeggings, a lightweight scarf, and shades and you will look grade A. Perfect for Noe Valley in San Francisco, where I spent much of my youth :)

Little Black Dress
Give your LBD an update with cutouts and embellishments! LBDs are perfect for going out and of course theme parties such as a little black dress party! Try BCBGeneration's Cutout- Strap Dress for 138.00.

White Dress
If you are rushing you will need a white dress if you decide to be initiated into a sorority! Or if you aren't into going GREEK, white dresses are perfect for anytime of the year if you are looking to dress up. FCUK's Cilla Dress is 83.99 and is adorable and chic!

SEE YOU GUYS BACK ON CAMPUS :)

and go out buy these staples, you'll surely have heads turning your way!

enjoy what's left of the summer <3

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

POST SCRIPT: vote on the poll!

The Sea, The Sun, The Sky: Beach Getaway

Hola my sunny fashionistas!

Summer is in full gear, and I apologize for not updating soon

enough; it has been like at least 20 days! Summer has just been in all systems go pretty much, I basically just got back from two river trips--I love white water rafting-- combined into one! And now I am about to be away again in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!

Which brings me to the perfect idea of writing about how to wow people, whether it be at the beach, pool or touring around on your great escape to the beach! On that note, it will help you and myself included to know what to bring on such a trip for day to day events! I haven't even began packing--actually currently doing laundry as I type...oh boy... story of my life. Whatever happens, it will still be amazing.

Anyways! Since this is a beach trip, you will definitely be either pool side, boogie boarding it up at the beach, or for the less faint of heart, tanning-- remember SPF is your BFF at the beach or at the pool. SPF=BFF : )

When your at the beach you should definitely not wear a "fru fru suit", you want to be able to move around as much as possible just in case you get an invite to throw football around by some cuties or play frisbee, or go body surf, I know I will definitely be hitting the waves! This is just for your comfort, and so everything stays in place. Try a look at me athletic bathing suit in one of summer's biggest trends, neon! It will make you easier to spot! If you are not into sport like activities bring you favorite book, your Ipod, glamorous shades, and if you are daring enough, go out like J.Lo. with a wide brimmed hat. Also buy a super cute dress cover up for going to and from the beach. Good places to look for beach cover ups are at Victoria's Secret, but if those are too expensive and jersey dress from Hollister Co.'s clearance room will suffice.

When you are poolside is quite similar except you can wear whatever type bathing suit your heart desires. I love girly swimwear with embellishments, my favorite suit has appliqué flowers along the collar line. A little shimmer or sequins never hurt anyone, but don't get carried away. If you aren't flashy go for a chic, sleek all white swim suit, which incorporates another one of summer twenty ten's top trends. Bring the same things to the pool, as you would to the beach. However nix the wide brimmed hat here, you want to look approachable at the pool, plus there should be plenty of palm trees, cabanas and umbrellas to sit under, which the beach is lacking.

While you are being a tourist your comfort and safety level should be at optimal levels. Make sure yo invest in some really cute, yet comfortable sandals. Protect yourself from the sun's rays with not only your bff, aka spf, but with a wide brimmed hat, just like at the beach, and it is an upgrade from the baseball cap, unless you are a dude. But if wide brimmed hats are too much try a funky fedora, and yes guys can wear them to. AS for clothing make sure to just not wear jeans, leggings, or long sleeves--clingy clothing in the heat is a no go. You will just make it unbearably hot yourself, and others who have to look at you. So do yourself a favor and throw on a breezy dress or skirt that is belted to add a boho look to it. Besides the belt accesorize with either earrings or a necklace. Bracelets are welcome with either of these. Don't go to showy with the jewelery, it puts a target on you. Other than that carry other goods with you in a small satchel. Don't forget your shades :)

A night on the town means salsa-ing the night away, at least for me! But whatever a night out means for you, you want to do it in style. It is just like going out back home except you have an ocean paradise as your back drop. So pack your heels, a high waisted skirt, a flirty top, or a jaw dropping dress. It all depends on what you can fit in your suitcase, or in my case, a carry on--yikes, I don't know how I am going to manage puling that off!

Well that is all for me right now considering I need to finish the laundry. Update when I get back from Cabo! I am going to have to do a back to college special for all my college loves at UMD and everywhere else. Oh and the poll is still up and running, go vote por favor!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes

Daisy Dukes Bikinis on Top

Are you summer ready?You should be :] It is now that time ladies. Swimwear-- how to get an awesome suit at a decent price! And the where I think the best place to buy swimwear-- Victoria's Secret!

Now I know being ( unfortunately) a starving college student that you need to save as much money as possible, and we are in this ridiculous recession in which every dollar counts that spending money is considered painful--BUT, being a fashion crazed gal, I must have a quality designer suit--yet the prices aren't so friendly...

SOLUTION: If you are going the one piece route this doesn't really apply, sorry :(

BUT, if you have been eying that super cute designer bikini but can't afford the price tag, the best way to get that awesome bikini is by going the separates route. Buy HALF of the suit, the piece that you like the most and then buy another like color or neutral half of a suit at a cheaper price that is reasonable from Target or Marshalls. Best part is that you can always get the other half once you get enough money!

I myself am planning on doing this, this summer because my favorite Becca Scarf Bikini has unfortunately had its run...

This is the bathing suit that I have been wanting since I saw it in the Victoria's Secret catalog. It is by Vix called the Peacock Triangle Top and is paired with a string bottom. I loved it! Peacocks are one my favorite animals! Unfortunately Vix is on the pricier end since it is top of the line designer swimwear. But I am so going to buy the top and then find black or dark purple bottoms to save the money. Then once I start working again I am so going to save up for the bottoms to match!

Victoria's Secret is primo bathing suit shopping territory! I definitely recommend it! I have always gotten my swimwear there! They always have the best deals and designers make exclusive suits for Victoria's Secret only!

So basically you will look hot and fashionable on your way out and about! Plus earning points with the opposite sex which is always the best, in my opinion : )

Anways! don't forget to work on your tan! and def don't forget that sunscreen, and please don't go fake bake--its gross. Embrace who you are and your clothing, that boost of confidence just may attract a cutie!

Love, J'Adore, Amor,

Gabriela Mercedes