Ready for Fall and Fall Favorites

Hi, everyone! I have gotten to that point where I am just tired of summer.  Some of it has to do with the fact that I just usually prefer cooler weather and don't like having to be in school when it is so hot and nice outside.  I also love fall clothing.  I love layering, sweaters, boots, scarves and the fact that wearing longer sleeves or leggings is practical and weather appropriate.  I'm really into baking and once fall starts, it is completely normal to do a lot of baking, especially with seasonal items.  I love fall and winter, though by about January or February, I will probably be so tired of it all!  This year, I started wearing sandals when it was barely warm enough because I didn't want to wear boots anymore! 

Bags Every Woman Should Have: A Quick Guide

Every girl needs to have her go-to bags that she loves.  Here is a quick list of some of the basics:

• Backpack

Boots for the Fall

Ankle boots are always popular in the fall and there are so many different styles.  I was in Marshall's last week and was pleased to see all the boots in stock - riding boots, Chelsea boots, heeled ankle boots, etc. These featured outfits are all casual, but I plan on doing a post on more formal outfits with boots soon. 

Back to School Style Ideas

Though students are increasingly having to wear uniforms to school, I thought that I would do a post on back to school style for the lucky students who don't have to worry about wearing a uniform.

Seven Ways to Wear a Striped Shirt

I personally love striped shirts! I have them in different colors, cuts and styles and consider them to be a basic item.  Though these shirts are often a pretty casual item, they can easily be dressed up or down based on the outfit or accessories.

Styling a Bold Blazer

One Blazer, Five Outfits by gmazhandu featuring flat shoes

Protein Shakes

I love a good protein shake because they can be healthy and taste good at the same time.  The only problem? A lot of them either don't taste good or don't look appetizing.  Here are two recipes for vanilla protein shakes that I have come up with:

Vanilla and Cucumber Shake:

• 1 scoop of vanilla flavored whey protein
• 1 cup of milk
• 4-6 slices of cucumber
• 4 ice cubes
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla

It is optional to puree the cucumber slices, but if you choose not to, the cucumbers may make the shake a little chunky.  Add all ingredients to blender and blend for 20-40 seconds, depending on how thick you want the shake. Makes one tall glass or between 12-16 ounces.

Vanilla Peppermint Shake:

• 1 scoop of vanilla flavored whey protein
• 1 cup of milk
• 4 ice cubes
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla
• 1/2 tsp. peppermint extract

Add all ingredients to blender and blend for 20-30 seconds.  Makes one tall glass or between 12-16 ounnces.

Getting Over the Death of Clothing: The Navy Shirtdress

A few years ago, I had bought this shirtdress from H&M that I loved.  It was that versatile piece that could be worn with boots, leggings and a shirt under it in the winter and sandals in the summer.  I loved it and was somewhat distraught when I discovered shocking news -  it didn't fit me well anymore!  I decided to put it in the Goodwill bag because it wasn't getting any wear from me by sitting in my closet.  So, why am I still thinking about it now?  Maybe it was because I forgot that it didn't fit me anymore and had fantasies of wearing it with a new item.  Deep down inside, I hoped that it had missed the ride to Goodwill and was hiding some place in my house.  I have chosen that I need to get over this dress.  I have replaced it with other shirtdresses that are just as nice and have accepted the fact that it will never come back.

Blueberry and Lemon Compote Recipe

I made this recipe to put on top of dessert pancakes and it turned out very nicely.

One Dress All Year Round: Outfit Under $50

This yellow fit and flare dress can be worn throughout the year by just changing the shoes and accessories.  Every item in these outfits is under $50 and shows that you don't have to sacrifice style in order to have a good deal.

Summer Cardigans

Cardigans are in style at just about every time of year. The trick is wearing the right cardigan for the right type of weather.  You don't want to wear a heavy wintry cardigan when it is 80 degrees outside or a light weight cardigan in the middle of January (unless you live in a warm place).  In the summer it may sound impractical to wear a sweater, but I assure you, it's not.  It might be scorching hot outside, but with the air conditioner on full blast, you might get a little chilly. 

Beach Totes for $50 and Under

Beach totes are not only great for summer day trips, but are a versatile carryall.  There are many different styles and patterns ranging from a classic woven bag to a bag with a bold pattern and bright ribbon.

Summer Hats

Wide-brimmed hats are a great summer accessory.  They help to keep the sun out of your face and casual style to an outfit.

Styling a Basic T-Shirt

Hey, everyone! I am really sorry that I have not been posting this month. I had been out of town and didn't have internet access most of the time.

This post is about how to style a basic t-shirt.  These shirts are something that everyone should have and can be worn in many different ways.

Summer Color Inspiration: Mint

Summer Color Inspiration: Mint by gmazhandu featuring a leather shoulder bag