Apartment Tour

A lot has changed for me over the last few months. Besides starting a new job, I also moved into my first "real" apartment. I had apartments in college, but none that I truly decorated and made my own, so I was really excited to put my stamp on the new place. Now that it is (mostly) complete, I'd love to take you on a tour of my new place:

So I didn't end up finding a yellow couch, but red was a close second. I settled for mustard accents to satisfy my yellow craving. Also, there are quite a few thrifted finds and DIYs seen here. The lamp, end table, and vase were all DIYs, and the mirror on the table was thrifted.

My gallery wall is still a work in progress, but I absolutely love it. I got my inspiration from here, here, and here.

This is the view of my living room from the front door. It's still a work in progress as well (I need curtains and would like some more coffee table books), but I really like how it is coming along so far!
 

Cube shelves were one of those things "I just had to have". After seeing lots of shelf styling ideas on pinterest (here, here, and here), I was so excited to try it myself. I love being able to display all of the fashion books I've accumulated over the years. I also adore my new Anthropologie vase.
 

I knew I wanted to work mint into my decor somewhere, so I decided to paint my bedroom walls that color. Well, let me rephrase that...I picked out the color and then let my dad paint :) There are a lot of DIYs in this room too...my uncle made my headboard and my mom and I spruced up an old dresser by stenciling the drawers and adding knobs from Anthropologie.

After seeing this tutorial on pinterest, I knew I had to make this plate stand to display my jewelry. I found the plates at Anthropologie and got the candle stick from the dollar store. Not only did it it turn out super cute, but it's functional too. I like having my jewelry on display because I know I'm much more likely to wear something if it is out in the open and visible.

Well that's my place! You like?

J.Crew Chic...on a Budget

It has been over two months since I last blogged. And to be completely honest, I miss it. A lot. So I think it's time that I get back to regular blogging. In order to do so, the focus around here is going to have to change a bit. Because I don't have a regular photographer and really hate posting poor quality mirror photos, outfit posts will be less frequent. But no worries, posts will still be plenty and fashion will still be the main focus. So consider this my official notice: I'm getting back in the game!

Here's a little something that has been inspring me lately. This image brings together two of my favorite things: fall clothes and J.Crew. The J.Crew catalog is a constant source of inspiration for me, but it usually has to end there. As a recent graduate, I can rarely afford to actually buy the clothing featured. So here is my take on how to be "J.Crew Chic" on a budget:

 

  via

Complete Outfit= $1,114

Turtleneck (Forever 21), Jeggings (Express), Military Jacket (Old Navy), Booties (DSW)

Complete Outfit= $152

Essentially the same outfit, for a tiny fraction of the cost. These boots, especially, are at the top of my fall wishlist. What is inspiring you for the upcoming season?