Easter Gingham

What I'm wearing: Gap tee, Gap cardigan, Forever 21 skirt (refashioned from dress), Gap tights, J.Crew flats, Forever 21 belt

I know I'm a day late, but happy Easter everyone! This is what I wore for Easter dinner at my aunt's house. My mom always used to dress me up in a pretty dress for Easter, so I still like to get dressed up for the holiday. I've been dying to wear this skirt ever since my mom and I made it together over spring break, and I thought Easter would be the perfect occasion for it's debut. I really like how this outfit turned out, but I'm looking forward to being able to wear it without tights when it gets warmer out!

Ta-Da!

Remember that dress refashion I was talking about the other day? Well this is it! I'm loving the way it turned out and cannot wait for warmer weather so I can wear it! Unfortunately, it snowed today so I think it may be awhile, but I'm already dreaming up cute combinations for spring. This is the first time I've ever transformed an item already in my closet, and it's exciting to feel like I have a new piece of clothing, even though it didn't cost a cent. I can't take all the credit though; my mom did all the labor on this one (I'm still not too handy with the sewing machine, although it is a goal of mine!). I've also been working on some beaded jewelry lately, so hopefully I'll have some pictures to share soon. Have you guys done any DIY's lately? I need more ideas...once I start crafting, I just can't stop!

Getting Crafty [Spring Break Edition!]

Because this spring break has had many unforeseen circumstances, my long list of things I wanted to do while home only has a few things crossed off. But you know me; I ALWAYS make time to go to the craft store a time or two. Here is what I've been working on...

These are my finished flower pins. I was at Michael's craft store the other day and was reminded of Kendi's simple DIY post when I passed all of the fake flowers. I picked the most colorful ones I could find, and I can't wait to debut them with a great spring outfit.

I've been longing for more color in my wardrobe. Color is huge for spring/summer. I can't afford a whole bunch of new clothes, so accessories are the way to go. I've been on the hunt for colorful belts and jewelry, but I've been having a hard time finding jewelry that matches what I have in mind while staying on budget. What's a girl to do when this happens? Make your own! Can't wait to show you the finished product!

During my closet cleanout, I came across this old Forever 21 dress in my closet. It's empire-waisted and very "babydoll" looking, and the dress is a little short. I haven't worn it in a few summers, so I was thinking about giving it the boot. Then I realized that it would make a great skirt! According to the instructions I've found online, it should be pretty easy to convert, but I'm not a very skilled seamstress. I'll probably be enlisting Mom's help for this one! Before and after shots will be coming your way once this project gets underway!

The Little Lightbulb

What I'm wearing: J.Crew painter tee, Gap Always Skinny jeans, Steve Madden flats via DSW, Vintage earrings, Scarf via NYC street vendor

I had never thought to pair this top and scarf together before, but as I unpacked when I got home for break, they ended up next to each other in a stack. I liked how the colors looked together, and a little lightbulb went off in my head. I love when that happens--it's like your wardrobe does the work for you. It also makes me wonder how many untapped combinations exist in my closet. When I buy new items (which I've been doing a lot lately...oops), I need to make more of a conscious effort to immediately play around with them and see how they look with things I already own. Basically, I need to learn how to play "dress up" in my own closet. Along those lines, I've also been working on a major closet cleanout since I've been home. I have tons of stuff just sitting in my closet at home that I NEVER wear, so I've started a big donation pile. I also have some items that I'm hoping to refashion; if I do, I'll share some before and after pictures!