backpack

While at school, my "book carrier" of choice has been a tote. I had worn a backpack throughout grade school and high school and upon entering college, I was ready to sophisticate my look a bit more. 

Who would have ever thought that backpacks could look as cool as these though?

I am loving the laid back ease of these backpacks...making the wearers appearance seem effortlessly classic. Choose between a floral fabric or distressed leather and the look of these bags can take you from classroom to city chic.

 Check out some of my recommendations below:

1. Madewell The Leather Transport Rucksack

2. Asos Washed Canvas Backpack (Yellow) 

3. Brahmin Marilyn Polka Dot Backpack

4. Color Block Apricot Backpack

5. Asos Leather Backpack with Pointed Flap

6. Bric's Life Backpack

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first day of school

Today is my last first day of school. 

It's definitely a bitter sweet feeling to say the least. 

I will be busy this semester taking Female British Modernist writers, American Politics, Contemporary Literature, International Politics, and a theatre class TBD. 

Loving this photo of a beautiful girl, probably feeling similar to how I am right now!

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Road Trip

I leave for school this weekend, so the Friday's Fancies Road Trip theme is perfect for me this week! I can't believe I am entering my last semester of school, it will be busy and exciting and I can't wait to get back and see everyone.

I LOVE this outfit and I feel that this is driving chic at it's finest:

Shop the look below:

Madewell Skinny Jeans

Scarlett Step Hem Sweater

J.Crew Printed Silk Scarf

Asos Boyfriend Watch

J.Crew Sophia Sunglasses

J.Crew Lexington Suede Loafers

Friday's Favorites:

road trip car & company.

the possibilities are endless as we embark upon a new school year.

 with plenty of books to read and things to learn.




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Dîner en Blanc

Twirling Clare readers, I have had the most amazing discovery! I know I might be a bit "behind the times" in hearing about this world renown event, but I can blame it on being from Cincinnati...because, as Mark Twain quoted, everything takes 20 years to reach Cincinnati. 

Nevertheless, this spectacular event is a must-share!

I heard about Dîner en Blanc last month from a co-worker at the boutique because Cincinnati is hosting the event on September 15th. 

A little under a quarter century ago, Frenchmen François Pasquier moved home to Paris from several years abroad in Spain. Upon his return, he wanted to throw a welcome home party for some of his closest friends. He instructed them all to meet at a local park, with picnic necessities. In order to find each other, they should all wear white. 

The event, founded on such a simple concept, has turned into a worldwide hit. It is most famous in Paris where guests have reached 15,000. It has seaped into the United States with kick-off events in New York and San Francisco and now events this year in Philadelphia, Chicago, Boston, New Orleans, Las Vegas, Atlantic City, New Orleans, and Cincinnati. 

Guests are invited and expected to bring their picnic meals, tables, and chairs...and sport their white ensembles. On the day of the event, they will receive an announcement of where the event is to be held. Often times, it is held in a large public park. The guests are told to use public transportation to make their way to the party. Upon arrival, they set up their tables and chairs, meet and greet their fellow dinner company (as large tables form in maze like order around the park). Music is provided for guests to enjoy background sounds as they eat & drink. Often a more festive band is used as the stars light up the sky, encouraging guests to dance the night away. For many occasions, G.H. Mumm Champagne has sponsored the event passing trays with a little bubbly. In addition, once the sun sets, guests are given sparklers and everyone sets their a-glow for a picture-perfect moment. 

Still interested in learning more?? Or would you like to find out a way to get on the waiting list??

Check out the Cincinnati page HERE. 

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summer reading list

Being an English Literature major, I am lucky to be able to keep up with reading throughout the school year. I have always loved reading and I hope my interest continues throughout the rest of my life! I love to read a variety of books ranging from classics to biographies to popular sellers. I was able to read an eclectic mix of books this summer which I am happy to share with you today...and perhaps you can add them to your reading lists!

The Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood

The Complete Collection of Mysteries & Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes

American Nations

The Hunger Games

Catching Fire

Mocking Jay

Katharine Graham A Personal History

The Girl with a Dragon Tattoo

Doctor Zhivago

                                  

 Happy reading!!

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statement necklaces

Today I am guest posting over at The Daisy Diaries!

 

Shelly has a wonderful blog and I am so pleased to be featured. 

I hope you can stop by to check out her darling site and see my post on statement necklaces. I have both inspirational photos & links to buy the fabulous necklaces below over on The Daisy Diaries.

Happy Tuesday, toodles!

monogram linens

Throughout the years I have never done a post on college dorm life. I have strayed away from showing pictures of my dorm or given a list of "must-haves" for setting up the ideal college room. That's been for a couple of reasons: 

1. I don't spend much time in my room. I am primarily running around campus studying in the library, attending meetings, walking around the little town of Delaware with friends, or socializing in different homes of campus students. 

2. I don't have the "must-have list" of college necessities. My room consists of clothes overflowing from every spare corner, a scattering of inspirational pictures taped on the wall, and kitchen supplies restricted to ikea colored bowls and champagne flutes. 

3. And finally, my bed-wear is quite humorous. 

My sheets and pillow cases are monogrammed. 

My mom was convinced that my white sheets would be snatched from the dryer and, therefore, to ward "sheet stealers" away, sheets with pink & green monograms would be necessary. 

Don't get me wrong, the sheets are darling...just quite interesting for college. 

So, without further ado, here is a glimpse into my "college dorm life" as I share inspiring bed linens graced with lovely monograms. 

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