Day 10: Embracing Color

What I'm wearing: Zara top, Gap Always Skinny jeans, Gap espadrilles, H&M necklace

Last weekend Natalie and I decided to have a girls night out. We went to Blockheads, a cute little outdoor restaurant for $4(!) drinks and Mexican food. It was the perfect way to celebrate our last weekend in the city, even if at the time we thought we still had another weekend ahead (this was all Pre-Irene). I threw this outfit together really fast, but I kind of love it! I've definitely embraced color more this summer than I ever have before. Brights are a big trend for Fall as well, so now I just have to figure out how to transition my colorful pieces into cooler weather. Will you be wearing bright colors this upcoming season?

An NYC Weekend

This weekend, I had friends come to visit. They were both first-timers in New York City, so they had a long list of things they wanted to do/see, and we had about a day and a half to make it happen. And you better believe it, we did it ALL.

Dinner in Little Italy on Friday night. Followed by gelato at Ferrara, of course.

Outside the Met, about to get in line for the Alexander McQueen exhibit. Which was AMAZING and totally worth the wait.

The view from the roof of the Met. I spy...my work building in the background!

Pinkberry was a necessary stop since we don't have them back in Ohio. My concoction? Pomegranate yogurt, with fruity pebbles and chocolate chips! Yum!

The three of us on the Brooklyn Bridge. We didn't walk the whole thing though...
it was WAY too hot for that!

In the early evening, we rode the Staten Island Ferry to get a different view of the city.

A panoramic shot my friend Anne took from the Ferry. Gorgeous!

Cheesecake at midnight at Juniors in Times Square. So good!

If you can't tell from the pictures, it was a very busy weekend! We also went to Grand Central Terminal, visited Central Park, checked out the Financial District, ate New York style pizza, ate in Chinatown, and got cupcakes at Crumbs. I think I officially have to go on a strict diet the rest of summer after all the amazing food we had, but it was definitely worth it. Anne and Christine, I hope you had an amazing first time in New York City!

Coral and Turquoise

Where: Columbus Circle
What I'm wearing: J.Crew outlet dress and belt, H&M sandals and necklace, Mondani bag via Steinmart

I finally got my hands on a camera! My little brother lent me his until mine can be repaired (thanks Brad!), and although it's circa 2006, it'll do until I get my baby back. It's also lacking a functioning self-timer, but luckily tonight I got dinner with Natalie who offered to play photographer for the evening. Don't you love great friends like that?! I was in a pretty bad mood before dinner, so a bright-colored outfit was a must. I love the combination of coral and turquoise...it just screams summer to me. This necklace was the best $12 I've ever spent; I literally want to wear it all the time and love the pop of color it can add to any simple outfit. What's your favorite color combination for this time of year?

Tweet, Tweet

Pictures via my Droid Eris of Washington Square Park, my favorite place to spend
some downtime reading a good book

Even though my camera is currently MIA (it's on its way to the repair shop), I still want to keep you guys updated on everything I'm doing here in New York City. I've been tweeting/twitpic'ing(I think I just made up a new verb) much more frequently, so make sure you're following me @KateBestFootFwd until I can get back to regular posting here at Best Foot Forward. Thank you all for sticking around...you're the best!

Runway Ready

What I'm wearing: Urban Outfitters dress, J.Crew outlet cardigan, Target scarf, H&M sandals, Bracelets from Old Navy, Forever 21, and J.Crew Outlet

I would like you all to meet my latest closet staple: the black maxi dress. I bought this dress about a month ago at UO, and at the time, I wasn't sure if it was worth the pricetag. But its proven to be worth every penny; I've already worn it many times and am actually surprised this is its first appearance on the blog. This is what I wore on Friday for the Project Runway public fashion show. It was at the Esplanade Plaza at Battery Park City, right on the Hudson. It was misty and cold, so I layered up with my cardigan and scarf. The show itself was amazing, and it was by far one of the coolest things I've done over the last two summers in NYC. Only in New York would I ever get the opportunity to do something like that (and for free!), and that's why I love this city so much.

Empire State of Mind

I realize that I've been lacking a little in the blog posting department lately, so I wanted to give you a little update on what's been going on here in NYC:
-My camera is broken! The first weekend I was here, someone dropped it and broke the lens, rendering the camera and the pictures on it completely useless until it can be repaired. My parents are sending me my brother's camera as a stand-in, so hopefully outfit pictures will resume soon.
-I'm completely obsessed with the area I live in. I walk out my front door and am pretty much standing in Washington Square Park (above, picture taken last summer), and I love going there to read and enjoy a little bit of the outdoors...it's about as "outdoorsy" as NYC gets. I'm also within walking distance of Bleecker street and tons of delicious food places.
-So far the only celebrity I've seen is the one who works at my office, so I'm not sure if that really counts? But hopefully by the end of my time here, I will have seen some more!
-My internship is going well. Some highlights so far were getting to help pack the trunks for a major photo shoot and handling some AMAZING clothes, getting to deliver a clothing rack to a photo shoot (even though I didn't get to see much, it was still pretty cool), getting to go to some pretty big-name showrooms to pick up or deliver clothing, and getting to cross paths with incredibly stylish people everyday.
-So far, believe it or not, I haven't really shopped. Although that's probably about to change because it's my day off, and I'm heading to Soho!

So that's pretty much all that's been happening lately...just wanted to stop by for a little update! Hopefully I will be back to regular outfit posts soon!

Hidden Treasures

What I'm wearing: J.Crew outlet button-down and cardigan, Old Navy shorts, Target sandals

My first weekend in New York City was really, really great. Friday I got off work early (that story will come in a later post...it had to do with a wardrobe malfunction, oops!) and spent the day relaxing and catching up on sleep. Saturday I went to the gym and then spent the afternoon walking around, eating Pinkberry, and starting Water for Elephants. Saturday night I went out with some girls from work which was SO much fun. There's a lot more to do in NYC when you're 21, that's for sure. I can already tell that this summer is going to be much more eventful than last. Sunday I visited my friend Natalie to watch the last play-off game. Before the game, we took a walk around her neighborhood and stumbled upon this gorgeous little garden. There are so many great hidden places like this is around the city. New York City is full of hidden treasures. This outfit isn't all that spectacular, but Natalie insisted we do some outfit photos because of the great backdrop. Unfortunately, this may be my last set of outfit pictures for a little while because during my night out on Saturday, someone dropped my camera and it broke. Until it gets repaired, I'm cameraless...a blogger's worst nightmare!

It's getting hot, hot, hot

What I'm wearing: H&M blouse, J.Crew outlet striped skirt, J.Crew flats, Urban Outfitters earrings, NY&Co. bangles, Tiffany's bracelet

It's a good thing I wore this light blouse and airy skirt yesterday, because it was HOT. We had a heat advisory here in NYC, and temps were in the high 90s. On any given day at work, I run at least a few errands, so I have to keep the heat in mind when getting dressed in the morning. I feel like this outfit was subconsciously inspired by this one, which has been all over pinterest.This striped skirt is a newer purchase, and I just love it. I wanted to pair it with my navy blazer, but it's way too hot for that. Well I'm off to battle the heat for the last time...it's almost the weekend!

Catching Up

What I'm wearing: J.Crew outlet tank, Urban Outfitters shorts, Banana Republic outlet sandals, H&M necklace, Forever 21 bangles, J.Crew bangle

I'm finally starting to feel a little more settled here in New York. Work was a lot less hectic today, which made it possible for me to get to know some of the other interns a little better. I've been pleasantly surprised at how nice everyone is. When I think of people in the fashion magazine industry, I think of Olivia Palermo or Devil Wears Prada, not down-to-earth girls who will compliment you on your $13 H&M necklace. Also, I got off work way earlier than expected today, and it feels so nice to be home at a decent hour with plenty of time to finish getting situated in my dorm and have some downtime. I've been so busy lately that I haven't had time to read other blogs, browse around on pinterest (let me know if you need an invite! it's so amazing/addicting), or check twitter. I'm feeling so media deprived! So with that said, I think I'm going to keep this short and go catch up on some blog-reading!

Whirlwind (and what I wore on my first day!)

What I'm wearing: J.Crew top, J.Crew minnie pants, Nine West outlet wedges, Forever 21 necklaces, Kate Spade tote

What a whirlwind week! I went from celebrating my birthday to prepping for finals to packing and moving to NYC. I moved into my dorm yesterday, and my first day of my internship was today! I'm going to keep this post brief because, to be completely honest, I'm WIPED OUT. I had to get up way early today to make sure I wasn't late for my first day, and the whole day was pretty tiring. I don't think I'm allowed to disclose where I am working, but I will say that its an amazing opportunity. This summer is going to be a great one, I can already tell!

Culture Shock

What I'm wearing: Anthropologie top, H&M blazer, H&M skinny pants, J.Crew outlet ballet flats, Forever 21 necklace, Coach outlet clutch

Last night I attended the 18th annual Fashion Production Association student design fashion show. FPA is an amazing organization at my university whose sole purpose is to plan an annual fashion show where student designers display their talent. This year's theme was "Culture Shock", using cities around the globe as inspiration. The last city showcased was New York, which made me excited about the summer ahead. The ladies of New York have such amazing style, and I can't wait to be inspired daily. Here are some of my favorite looks from the show... I'm still in awe of all the talent!

Weekly Gratitude

Image via

This week I'm thankful for:
-It's finally April! I hope this means cold weather is coming to an end. I'm ready for spring!
-Having a full weekend planned, complete with delicious Mexican food to celebrate my roommate's birthday and reconnecting with friends I haven't seen in awhile.
-Netflix. Whether it's Greek on instant queue or Love and Other Drugs (which I'm watching as I type this), Netflix offers a wonderful distraction from everyday life.
-Jillian Michael's Cardioblast workout video. I started doing it over spring break, and I love it! It's a full body workout, and I always feel so good after I complete it.
-Kashi chocolate chip oatmeal cookies. Their delicious, semi-healthy, and the perfect amount of chocolatey-sweetness for an after dinner sweets craving.
-Hairpsray. A high bun has been my go-to hairstyle lately, so lots and lots of hairspray is a must!
- 30% off J.Crew final sale! I scored a silk top for $30 total with tax and shipping. Now I'm just crossing my fingers it fits!
-My family. They've been so supportive recently, especially my mom.
-Finding out that one of my good friends from school will be in NYC this summer as well. I could not be more excited to have a friend to run around the city with this summer!
-Having something to look forward to. I know it's going to be a lot of hard work, but I could not be more excited for the summer ahead.

What are you thankful for this week?

Weekly Gratitude: Part 2

*Another "Weekly Gratitude" post inspired by
Love, Life, Lace

This week I'm thankful for:
-Amazing parents that were willing to drop everything they were doing to drive me to NYC for my interview. They kept me company and offered moral support, and I couldn't have asked for more.
-All of the congratulations and kind words I've received. I feel lucky and very loved.
-Being given such an amazing opportunity. I still can't believe it :)
-Crumbs cupcakes! They make a visit to NYC that much sweeter.
-Veronica Mars. Best TV show ever...it kept me company on the long drive home.
-A weekend filled with TWO birthday celebrations for friends. I'm ready to have some fun!
-Online shopping. My Dolce Vita for Target wedges arrived, and I'm in LOVE!
-Lunch dates with the boyfriend at the on-campus diner. It's our "just got back from traveling" tradition.
-Getting to spend another summer in New York City. Who's coming to visit?! Blogger meet-up, anyone?

Big City, Big News

What I'm wearing: H&M blazer, Loft Top, J.Crew Minnie pants, Tahari heels (2007), J.Crew bracelet, Vintage ring

In case you hadn't guessed from my previous post, my little roadtrip took me New York City. It was the quickest trip ever, but it ended exactly how I had hoped: I was offered an internship! I found out Friday that I was being considered for a position at a fashion magazine, and it's been absolutely killing me to keep this a secret from you guys (I didn't want to jinx myself before the interview!). I'm feeling a huge range of emotions right now: excited, relieved, grateful, a little nervous...but mostly excited! I feel so fortunate that somehow my resume and cover letter made it into the hands of the right people and that they were impressed. Little old me, just a girl from Ohio, is going to be interning at a fashion magazine! It feels surreal. When I found out about the interview, one of the first things I thought was "What am I going to wear?!" So clearly a little shopping was in order. After hearing Linda rave about the J.Crew Minnie pants awhile back, I had to give them a try. And I really like them! I topped them off with a top from Loft and a loose blazer from H&M. I completed the look with my favorite heels (I've had them for years and I'm still in love) and my J.Crew cuff bracelet. I felt really good, and I think that came across in my interview. After finding out I received the internship (I got an email about 10 minutes after leaving the office), I went to Crumbs with my mom and dad to celebrate.

No trip to NYC is complete without a trip to Crumbs! Now I'm headed back to Columbus, and I can't wait to share my good news! Bye, bye New York...see you again in June!
*Also, if anyone has NYC housing suggestions, I'm all ears!

Last Year's Resolutions

Every year, I make New Years resolutions. And every year I tend to break them. But last year was different. I sat down last December and wrote down 7 goals for the year. And I must say, I was actually rather successful. There is something powerful about actually writing something down; it forces you to commit. Of my 7 goals, two stand out in particular. Number 2:Start a blog and Number 6: Get an internship. It may have taken me until June to finally get up the courage to start Best Foot Forward, but I'm so glad I did. It's still a small blog, but I never imagined I would have this many people reading what I have to say or looking to see what I'm wearing. I feel truly blessed to be part of the blogging community. 2010 was a major year of personal growth for me, and I think both of these resolutions were a big part of that. Interning in New York City was an amazing, amazing opportunity and taught me a lot about myself and where I want to go in life. Last year at this time, I had no idea I would get such an awesome opportunity. Here's to hoping 2011 holds just as many great surprises and success!

NYC, Summer 2010

Sailing Away

I will be leaving NYC in approximately 36 hours. Dad is driving here tomorrow, and we leave bright and early Saturday morning. I can't believe the end is finally here. Tomorrow is the last day of my internship, and I have learned so much there. It has been such an experience to get to see the whole process of creating, producing, and selling a fashion line. I have gotten very good reviews/evaluations of my performance as an intern, which is really nice to hear. I work really hard because I know that I'm paying my dues now; sometimes being an unpaid intern was less than glamorous, but it will be completely worth it in the end. Plus, I got a bunch of free clothes (and what could beat that?!)

Occasion: Work
What I'm wearing: Gap shirt (2008), American Apparel navy skirt, Urban Outfitters earrings, Banana Republic sandals (not pictured)

New York decided it just wouldn't be right to let me leave without sweating my butt off a few more times getting ready for work, as this morning was quite a warm. Something about this outfit makes me feel a little sailor-ish; I think its the colors and the bow. I hardly ever wear this shirt, and I couldn't tell you why. Its actually rather cute; I should probably try to bring it into the rotation a little more often. Okay well I'm going to have to cut this short so I can go pack up EVERYTHING in my room. This could take awhile.

Drawing a Blank

I'm keeping it short today because I feel completely exhausted. I think its a combination of working long hours, not working out, and not eating enough healthy food. Getting back into a healthier lifestyle is definitely at the top of my priority list when I get home. Another priority is starting my 30 for 30 challenge. Lately, I have been drawing a major blank when I stand in front of my closet and try to get dressed in the morning, so it couldn't come at a more perfect time. Next Monday I intend to post my 30 items (assuming I get all my laundry done Sunday!) and begin my remixing. Until then, I have a feeling my outfits might be a little blah. So bear with me for a few more days!

Occasion: Work
What I'm wearing: Gap navy dress (2008), H&M flower pin, Forever 21 bangles, Bangle from NYC street vendor, Merona wedges (not pictured)

This morning I tried on a few different outfits and nothing felt right. When all else fails, I grab a simple go-to dress and do my best to accessorize. Today it worked out okay, but I better do a little outfit planning tonight so I don't end up late to work tomorrow because I can't decide what to wear!

Time Flies When You're Having Fun

Today marked the beginning of my second-to-last week of interning. I can't believe how fast it has gone. As my last day approaches, I'm starting to look forward to going home to Ohio. I haven't been home for longer than a few days since December, so it will be nice to catch up with my old friends from high school and spend some much-needed time with family. Until then, I'm just trying to enjoy my last days here in the city.

Occasion: Work
What I'm wearing: J.Crew Outlet ruffle tee, Jodi Arnold for the Limited skirt, Macy's pearl-drop earrings, Vintage ring via Talk of the Town (gifted), Essie Fiji nail polish

Yesterday was Sunday, so I painted my nails and tried out my new Essie polish. Overall, I think I like the color. Its lighter than what I usually wear, but its growing on me. Its already chipping a little, so OPI will probably remain my favorite because of how long it tends to hold up. I feel so-so about this outfit; its kind of plain. I feel like these last two weeks I need to bust out some trendier outfits since this is New York City, after all. We will see what I can come up with...

New York, New York

So as I sit here writing my first ever blog post, I am supposed to be studying for finals, but I can't stop thinking about New York. As of yesterday, I have one week left of my sophomore year of college and a little more than two weeks until I move to the Big Apple for the summer. I can't believe it's finally happening. I have been wanting to create a fashion blog for a long time, and what better time than now, when I am about to spend two months in NYC chasing my dreams. So I'm putting my best foot forward, and I hope you will come along for the ride.