Spring Fever

The other day, I was browsing through my "Loves" at sephora.com when I realized something odd: nearly every item was a flowery pink, peach, or lavender shade, and several items mentioned "rose" or "flower" in the name. Sure, my style is feminine, but I was never one to brand myself as "girly." The proof is in the pudding, though, and with spring (hopefully!) around the corner, I'm begging to be bathed in shades of delicate blossoms and blooms. Here are some of the beauty picks I'll be pining after come springtime:

1. L'Occitane 'Pivoine Flora' Hand Cream. ($12)

2. Formula X for Sephora in 'Alive'. ($10.50)

3. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in 'Diffused Heat'. ($35)

4. NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencils in 'Bolero' and 'Paimpol'. ($25 each)

5. Josie Maran Pure Argan Milk Intensive Hydrating Treatment. ($56)

6. Chloe 'Roses de Chloe' Eau de Toilette Spray. ($120)

7. Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupté Lipstick in '007 Lingerie Pink'. ($35)

8. FRESH Rose Floral Toner. ($38)

What's on your spring wish list? Do you live for the ladylike floral shades of April and May, or do you prefer the dark, rich shades of winter? Have a happy Friday, and enjoy your weekend! Keep your fingers crossed for no more snow! Xx

ModCloth presents "Uniquely You"

Happy Thursday! It's been a quick minute since I've posted last, but between midterms and making up the ten million snow days (I'm not complaining), it's been a busy few weeks. Now that we're back in the swing of things (not to mention another school vacation coming up soon - yay!), I thought I'd share with you some exciting new developments over here in the Valley!

A few weeks ago, I was approached by ModCloth to participate in the Uniquely You campaign, where bloggers like me put together some seriously stylish Polyvore creations featuring the best picks from ModCloth.com. If you're not familiar with ModCloth, they are a giant e-retailer offering the most adorable retro and vintage pieces at really amazing prices (remember that adorable mug in my snow day post?). This week's set features the Evening of Extravagance dress ($160, available in sizes XS to 4X), a black and beige lace confection perfect for a glamorous evening out. When I saw the dress, I automatically pictured a crimson-lipped crooner at some swanky French lounge; hence, I present "La Chanteuse."

Have you shopped with ModCloth before? What are some of your favorite pieces on the site? Leave comments, and I promise lots of more exciting news and posts coming up soon! Xx

Hey hey, snow day!

It. Is. Cold. I'm talking 10 degrees, feeling like -4. The northeast coast of the United States is absolutely frigid, and Michigan is no exception. Remember this scene from "The Day After Tomorrow" when the helicopters freeze instantly?

Okay, okay, it's not that serious, but even after countless winters and horrible snowstorms year after year, we Michiganders are spoiled babies! Lucky for me, teaching is one profession where inclement weather calls for a day off. I'm talking snow days, baby! I think the only people who get more excited for snow days than students are teachers (although my inner panic at rearranging next week's lesson schedule is slowly creeping in). If you were fortunate enough to stay home today, staying warm and cozy is of utmost importance.

Did you stay indoors today, or were you brave enough to venture out in the cold, cold weather? I know I'll be doing a little snow dance for another day off on Monday! Xx

Hustle Real Hard

If you know me at all, you know that I am a huge movie fan. I watch trailers in my spare time, host award-show parties, and frequent theaters whenever I can. Time off from work this week meant I got to see a couple of films, "American Hustle" and "The Wolf of Wall Street" (more on the atrocious latter in another post). Ever since seeing the initial trailer for "American ages ago, I had high hopes for the film. I was not disappointed, and "American Hustle" has my vote for best film of 2013. Click on the jump to read more!

Christmas Wishes

Just a few of the things I'm coveting this holiday season. Didn't realize it at first, but it looks like there's a definite black and gold theme here! I was lucky enough to receive the items on my list (gift exchange came early this year), and I can't wait to wear my new goods in the new year.

What are some of your Christmas wishes? Any big-ticket items you're hoping for? I hope you all get everything on your list! Xx

Naked 3: A Tale of Unrequited Love

When I was 18 years old, I fell in love. Not real love, of course, but the kind of impassioned, amorous affection that consumes a teenager who finds a boy good-looking. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep, I couldn't function knowing that this person existed and could one day be my boyfriend. The object of my desires, who we will call "John,"  was your run-of-the-mill teenage Lothario, whispering sweet nothings in my ear and promising a fantastic future together. His work was done; I was his forever! (Teen translation: I was his for a summer.)

Naked 3 Palette: you are my new "John."

Like John, you teased me. I saw you once, and I had to have you. I did my fair share of Internet stalking. Back then, it was logging into MySpace to see who was in your "Top 8" and comment on your profile; today, I check obsessively to see whether or not you're available for purchase (you are not). Why do you torture me so, Naked 3 Palette? Why did I not receive a notification that you were in stock? Am I not good enough for you, Naked 3 Palette??

There are others, of course. Just like there were other 18 year-old-boys I could've turned my attention to, there are other palettes: some cheaper, some probably better-looking, some that are less of a hassle. But nothing will sate me like you can, Naked 3. No other palette offers endless looks of rose-gold radiance, glowy shades of pinkish-taupe just waiting to grace my already-brown eyelids.

This tale of unrequited love is looking bleak, but I don't give up that easy. I will continue my pursuit until your slim, sparkly goodness is in my greedy little paws, and unlike John, Naked 3 palette, I know you know how to make a lady feel beautiful!

Is your Naked 3 story as sad as mine? Or are you living happily ever after? Leave comments below! Xx

Paris, je t'aime.

Ahh, wanderlust. Always creeping in and making me wish I was somewhere far, far away. Specifically, 4000 miles away in the City of Lights. I'm talking Paris, people! It's been a dream of mine to go to France since I was a wittle kiddie, and seven years of French classes have only added fuel to the fire.

What is it about Paris that pulls on my heartstrings? I don't know why I have such a connection to this place I've never been to before, but ask me where I would go if I could go anywhere in the world, and the answer will always be, "Paris." The entire French culture is beautiful, but in a relaxed, subdued way. Parisian chic is easy elegance, something that comes naturally to those lucky enough to be native Parisians. This post is dedicated to all of my favorite things French, so click on the jump and allons-y!

Winter Fun

Winter Fun by atrpcevski3 featuring tote handbags

The perfect outfit for chilly winter activities. In soft fabrics and shiny finishes, chic neutrals are never boring. Complete the look with knit accessories and sparkly holiday nails. Enjoy! Xx

Pastel Perfection

I don't want to pat myself on the back or anything, but....I called pastels being huge for spring like, waaay back in September. Or maybe it was in October. Come to think of it, it was probably after Paris Fashion Week. So I really didn't predict anything. But I was a big supporter of this trend, trust me! I think this image served as my initial introduction:

Jessica Biel, looking all chic and fabulous at Paris Fashion Week. And now, we're seeing the ad campaign for Louis Vuitton featuring the same creamy goodness.

So as spring quickly approaches (well for Michiganders, at least. Winter seems nonexistent over here.), pastels are resurfacing and I'm getting all giddy. Below, my interpretation and foray into the trend that'll have you feeling like an Easter Egg (i.e. just as pretty and sought after, ha ha!).

Pastel Perfection by atrpcevski3 featuring party dresses

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve by atrpcevski3 featuring a tuxedo blazer