An Outfit Fit for Santa

Hey Preps!

(Outfit of the Day: Calvin Klein Cardigan, J.Crew Blouse, 

J. Crew Tweed/Sparkly Skirt, Alfani Flats, Sparkly Bow Headband)

I love this tweed skirt.  It is the perfect balance of traditional and festive with the classic tweed combined with a hint of tinsel like sparkle.  I kept my top simple with a white frilled blouse and simple red cardigan (that has crystal buttons...adding to the festive look).  Simple gray tights helped to keep the attention on the skirt, finishing simple black flats with a hint of beaded detail and a sparkly bow headband to keep the holiday look in mind.

Today I was thinking, and here are a few of the things I already am thankful for this Christmas:
Family Christmas parties, Santa appearances, Christmas decorations and music,
Eating too much, Wine,
No school or work, The first big snow of the year, skiing, wrapping presents,
Giving, Snuggling, Singing, Relaxing...
Friends, Family, and my puppy.

That being said...hope y'all are having great times with family and friends,
and that you had a safe a blessed weekend!

Just Some Thoughts About Graduation

Hey Preps!

Finals are over. I am still tired, sniffly, grumpy, and I just want to lay in my bed.  Yet, somehow I am going to muster up enough motivation to shower and go out to see some of my dearest friends.  Not yet though...not for another hour.  Then I will be scrambling to get everything together and make it to our meeting destination on time.  It's just the way things go in my life.  Just like today, I was thinking and I don't remember a single December that I wasn't sick after finals.  Sheesh! Okay so enough of my pity party.  FINALS ARE OVER! It is officially Christmas break!

Yet, today as I sit and ponder in my exhausted and emotional state...I can't help but think that I am graduating in one single semester.  If it goes by half as fast as the fall semester, it will be too fast.  I am not ready to be a grown up.  There is so much traveling, learning, and events I wish I had the chance to do.  So, since I gave advice at the beginning of this semester, I am going to give a little bit now.  Take it as you will.

1.  I shouldn't have been a Biochemistry major.  There I said it.  Have you guys ever done the Myers-Briggs personality test?  If so, you will understand this: I am ENFJ.  That stands for extraversion, intuition, feeling, judgment...It is one of 16 personality types you can be.  ENFJ's usually are connectors.  We like being social and can sense a tone within a social setting, and know how to adjust accordingly.  We are people pleasers who put others before ourselves.  There is an awareness of social situations that no other personality type has...making us perfect for business oriented fields such as marketing, advertising...anything creative and people oriented.

The sad part? I took this test my freshman year of college.  I saw what career paths were recommended of me, and I panicked.  I wanted to be a Biochemistry major, because I knew it would guarentee a stable job upon graduation.  I knew it would lead into hopefully the Medical field...and now I am looking at all the labs I dreaded, all the dry material, and have no desire to become a doctor...or work in a lab.

I have other options, like getting my MBA and have considered working in Pharmaceutical Sales for a little while before I decide what I should go to grad school for...but the advice I can give you, is do what you love...even if it doesn't always mean the outcome is a stable paycheck.  I am a firm believer that if you do what you love, then you will be successful; waking up each morning excited and passionate about your day.

Don't follow my footsteps and stick out a major you are miserable in...because chances are, you will be miserable in that field of work.

2.  Study Abroad.  I wanted to study abroad in the worst way.  There were full intentions that I would spend the summer abroad in Italy last year, however, that fell through because I was stuck doing senior research.  There are so many places I want to travel and experience...I think the best opportunity to do so is in college.  Plus, it really adds something extra to your resume.

3.  Go to a college that specializes in a field you are interested in.  I was recruited to swim Division I.  The challenge and the opportunity the scholarship provided me made me decide upon the first college I went to.  However, looking back, was it the best fit for me?  Sure, I love that university with all my heart.  I will always cherish the people and experiences within my time there, however, they did not offer the academics that would help me to go straight into a program I wanted after graduation.  If you think about it, there really is nothing I will ever do with swimming....except maybe coach.  Why would I base my whole college decision based on one single aspect that will not benefit my future?

Do I have regrets?  Absolutely not.  Life is a learning process, and I think I have time to decide on what I really want to do in my life...yet, I still can't get over the fact I only have one semester left...

Winter Essentials: to Keep You Classic and Cozy

Hey Preps!

Yep. It's finals week.  I'm sick, tired, delirious, and look like a mess...

Pretty much locked myself in the library today.  I feel stupid.  I mean, how much can I honestly forget in three months? Somehow I managed to forget a lot...and here I am...in this hot, stuffy, overpopulated facility that doesn't let you even have a sip of water (which I learned today when I was thoroughly scolded for taking a gulp) or speak.  Listen: I have ADHD...I have to have a slight distraction in order to stay focused.  For example, a water break helps me to piece up my studying between gulps...that way I can refocus on the next thing.  Usually I listen to acoustic music as a little bit of a background noise...but today all I hear are sick college peers sniffling next to me.  Do not sniffle on me kid, okay?

So, I have resorted to chewing my pen and hitting it on my head.  Yes, it is the only thing helping me to focus.  Sure kids think I'm weird...but I feel as if my reputation of being a weirdo has already been enacted, so I'm going to keep on doing it.

In midst of a study break, I managed to make a quick Polyvore of some winter essentials that I think we all might be needing come January.  I don't even want to think about January, and school, and cold icy wind tunnels that consist of my walking commutes to my classes...but apparently January seems a little less depressing than this Philosophy final that I am about to embark on:

Winter Staples by pittsburghprep featuring kitten heels

Tommy Hilfiger wrap top
£205 - houseoffraser.co.uk

J Crew cable knit sweater
$228 - jcrew.com

J Crew j crew cardigan
$168 - jcrew.com

Tommy Hilfiger pea coat
£250 - houseoffraser.co.uk

J Crew tweed jacket
$300 - net-a-porter.com

J Brand skinny jeans
$180 - barneys.com

J Crew long pencil skirt
$128 - jcrew.com

Lands End skirt
landsend.com

Tory Burch kitten heels
£415 - net-a-porter.com

Boots
$164 - llbean.com

J.Crew wedge heels
$138 - jcrew.com

Lands End ballerina flat
$15 - landsend.com

Lands' End sunglasses
landsend.com






I really don't have time to explain my Polyvore, but I will say that in winter my goal is to stay warm, practical, classic, festive, and dry.  


To those of you taking finals, best of luck! To those of you finished taking finals, congrats!  To those of you not in college, be glad you aren't in my Philosophy class!  

Have a blessed day y'all!

Gents, Deck Your Trousers

Hey Preps!

Driving home yesterday, I passed at least 20 vehicles with their handpicked Christmas trees tenderly tied to the tops.  Everywhere you look, the signs of Christmas are evident.  The semester is finally coming to an end...with a few projects and finals looming in the way between a month off of school, and some much needed time with family and friends.

Let me tell you, Christmas is just the best time of the year.  There is music, lights, food, and time to truly enjoy the blessed lives we live.  There is so much giving, and conscious thought about each individual important in your life...it really makes you realize everything you take for granted on a daily basis.

 There is so much excitement in Christmas, and in my opinion, I think it should be shown through your wardrobe.  Don't you agree?

So, in honor of being in Christmas spirit, I decided to share a few pairs of pants that I think are just perfect for a Gent to rock during this time of year:

"Tangled Cords"

by BONOBOS

are the perfect pair of pants to wear to any fun Christmas party.

To those college boys, I think these would be a great addition to an

"Ugly Sweater Party".  

"Holiday Harmon Pants"

by Vineyard Vines

I love these two-toned corduroy pants.

Nothing says preppy Christmas like a pair of these tailored,

"go-to-hell" pants.  

"Dandycanes"

by BONOBOS

These pants are 100% wool...and 100% holiday proof.

I love plaid in the winter, and nothing screams Christmas

like a pair of these festive trousers.  I am in pant heaven...

Gents, nothing wishes a merrier Christmas than a pair of festive pants!

Hope y'all are having a great start to the holiday season!

Bean Boots

Hey Preps!

Today I had schoolwork overload, and opted for playing on my Sketchbook instead of doing homework.    A while back, I posted about my love of doodling, and it's benefits of keeping me focused in class.  My class binders are filled with tiny doodles embedded in my notes.  It truly is the perfect distraction to keeping me focused in class...if that makes sense.  For example, today in my philosophy class...I doodled the outfit I was wearing, but was able to answer every question my professor tormented us with.  That slight distraction is my way of paying attention (without shaking my legs...which is my alternative option).

Anyways, Sketchbook is much harder than a simple doodle... especially when using the mouse on my Macbook.  I guess I don't have steady enough hand to be a pro at Sketchbook yet, but I'm working on it. Please excuse the kindergarten artwork above, but I am still proud of my attempted Bean Boots nonetheless.

Still am trying to figure out a way I can incorporate my sketches with an online program.  Any ideas?

Sorry for the random post, just had to show off my latest accomplishment (if I dare even call it that)!

Hope y'all are having great weeks!

Gym Talk: Common Mistakes

(Outfit of the Day:

Plaid Flannel Button-down from J.Crew

Lands' End Diamond-Quilted Down Vest

Tommy Hilfiger Corduroy Skinnys

Hunter Boots)

Just walked into the gym...for the third time today.  This time, to work.  One of "my usuals" as I so fondly call them, walks up to the desk I sit at in the fitness center and says: "what a slacker".  Then he smiles as he anticipates my explosion of a rebuttal.  

"Excuse me, but I worked out for two and a half hours already today.  If anyone's a slacker it's you."

Mind you, this usual is the chief police officer of my town.  Yeah, I have guts...and he finds my feisty opinions refreshing I think.  

He responds, "Oh Kalyn, I just like getting you fired up before your shift".  

Too bad I already was.  One thing I can't stand is laziness.  Sure, I have days where both ends of the candle were burnt to the point I must, for my health, take a lazy day.  That is completely different than what I am about to explain.  

As a fitness instructor, and personal trainer (in training)...I see a few common flaws in the people who make use of the gym.  Sure, I will give them credit for showing up and getting on that treadmill or elliptical.  However, if you are looking to get in shape...there is a lot more to it than just that.

Someone today said to me as I was leaving the gym, "Eat a cheeseburger".  Usually I find that funny, but today I didn't.  Guess what?  I eat cheeseburgers.  I am not saying I swing by McDonald's for a Big Mac daily, but I do on occasions eat poorly...but really? That comment was not necessary.  Why?  Because I work.  I work hard to stay in shape.

Last night in a class that I teach, a few members were being...lazy.  There, I said it.  They weren't staying on pace, and refused to do anything too hard.  Worse of all, they decided to talk during one of the hardest circuits that they opted not to do.  I snapped.  I looked over at them, as I was drenched in sweat and said:

"Look at me, I am soaked...THIS IS NOT PRETTY GIRL SWEAT!"

The whole class lost it.  They were dying with laughter.  Not funny, but okay my sarcasm got the best of them.  

So back to my rant, a lot of people want to know what I do to stay in shape.  So I am going to be blunt and say I work my butt off.  I am in the gym consistently 6 times a week.  I teach classes on top of that.  I don't just get on the treadmill and coast...no I am sprinting, doing intervals, sweating and pushing myself each day.  

There are days I don't want to run...I do it anyways.  I push myself, and I SWEAT.  One common mistake I see especially women doing is this:  they get on a cardio machine and they hardly even move.  They go so slow with no resistance or incline and they think they are getting a good workout in.  YOU'RE NOT.  To get the results you want, you have to work for it.  That means pain, sweat, and getting up and pushing yourself even when you want to stay in bed.

Listen, I feel your pain...I have 22 hours of school this semester, I work mornings, nights, and teach classes.  I am so busy.  Sleeping in on the weekends is the only way I make it through...trust me, I really don't like going to the gym sometimes, but I do it anyways.  So guess what?  I don't have sympathy for you if you don't feel like it either.  

Rome wasn't built in a day folks.

Okay so second common mistake I see...girls don't want to lift heavy.  Yes, you.  I see you lifting that dinky 3 or 5 lb. weight. Guess what? Your purse weighs more than that.  

"But I don't want to get big muscles"

Listen, you are not going to bulk up in one day.  The way you get rid of fat is by building muscle.  You don't build muscle if you are lifting something that is too easy for you.  The fastest way to have good results is to lift heavier than you are used to.  It is supposed to hurt the next day.  It is supposed to hurt when you are lifting...plus, muscle burns fat...so the more muscle you have...the better your metabolism is.  Just sayinnnn.

So there you have it...my rant about what people do wrong at the gym.  I feel much better now.  

Just remember, it's not ever going to be pretty girl sweat; but it has it's benefits.  Like looking killer in a dress when you aren't sweating?

Hope y'all are having a great week...working off all that stuffing and pumpkin pie!  

Thanks for reading this crazy feisty post!

Gifts for Your Gent

Hey Preps!

Last night was an emotional one.  Do you ever have those nights where you just want to cry for no reason? Yup one of those nights.  Was it the fact that break went by too quickly?  OR was it the fact that this week I have a big grown-up girl interview for after I graduate college?  Maybe it was the fact that Patrick finds out what he is getting for Service Selection this week...

What is Service Selection?  It is when the First Class (seniors) at any Service Academy finds out what they will be doing for the following "X" amount of years (depending on what they are selected for).  Pat so badly wants to be a pilot.  He has done everything right during his years there to ensure this happens, however, is it enough?  Will the Navy look at his qualifications and put him in a position that he will be thrilled to serve our country doing?

I don't know.  No one knows.  It's terrible that at night I can't sleep anymore because of worrying that he will end up having to do something he hates. I am so stubborn that having a job doing something I hate would not flow well with my personality. Putting myself in Pat's shoes, I worry he will be miserable.  I truly do.

Little detour from where I was going with this, so let me bring you back...the point is, last night was an emotional roller coaster.  Guess who got the brunt of it?  Patrick.

So he called, and I was already crying.  Poor kid, he was NOT too happy to hear me sniffling over the phone to him.  Yet, he took the wrath of Kalyn.  Sure he made it known that he was really not happy about me crying but he sat there and listened (and knowing Pat rolled his eyes or played with something so he didn't have to listen the whole time...which is definitely a good thing).

Then, Pat slowly eased me into new conversations...and by the end of the phone call, normal happy Kalyn was back.

So my point is Pat puts up with a lot.  Soooo, in honor of his putting up with a lot, I made a Polyvore with Christmas gifts inspired by him...

Gifts For Him by pittsburghprep on polyvore.com

Secret Wash button-down shirt in Emmet tartan
$65 - jcrew.com

Men's: Featured | Free Shipping at L.L.Bean
$154 - llbean.com

Barbour Hip Flask
barbour.com

Burberry Check Billfold Wallet
$265 - saksfifthavenue.com

Mens Canvas & Leather Belt
$75 - aspinaloflondon.com

Decadent red tartan tie
$70 - jcrew.com

Lacoste Watch, White and Green Silicone Strap 2010526
$95 - macys.com

Ray-Ban Clubmaster Larger Size
$145 - needsupply.com

Allistair Willow and Canary from Kiel James Patrick
$40 - kieljamespatrick.com





First on the list, a Tartan button-down from J.Crew.  Boy, am I a sucker for Tartan during Christmas time.  It's so cozy and festive (and nice to touch).  Definitely a shirt I would encourage any lady to give to her gent.


Bean Boots are perfect for winter seasons.  I honestly couldn't survive the hasty snow and ice of Pennsylvania winters without mine...so why not ensure your beau's toes stay toasty as well and buy him a pair?  Plus, Bean Boots are up there on the list of "sexiest things a guy could wear according to Kalyn".  Thought I'd mention that.  Take it as you wish.


Flasks are fun.  Tacky line, but so true...I really enjoy the needlepoint flasks from Smathers&Branson, and think they are a great gift to give the Fraternity Bro...or someone who wishes he were in a Frat, kind of like my boyfriend.  


Gents wear through wallets.  You fine young men out there really abuse those things.  You sit on them flip them wide open so they are the flimsiest poor excuses of wallets I've ever seen.  I honestly look at mens' wallets and have sympathy for them.  That being said, a guy can always stock up on a wallet or two, so he has a few lined up waiting their turn in the torture chamber known as a Gents' back pocket.

Belts.  I love them.  Probably my favorite accessory...you have so many to choose from, ribbon belts, needlepoint belts, canvas, leather...you name it.  They are a fun gift to give, and definitely a way you can be creative to fit your man's style.

Speaking of Tartan, how about a Tartan tie?  The one on the Polyvore is great. I love the colors used, and definitely think this would be a great gift to give a guy for Christmas.

Pat has strict guidelines on what he can/cannot wear with his uniform. So, last year I bought him this very same Lacoste watch as a fun present.  He can wear it on weekends, and it adds a little extra flare to the boring watches the Mids have to wear during the week.

My favorite type of Ray-Bans?  The Clubmasters.  Especially on guys.  Talk about making me melt.

Kiel James Patrick bracelets are fun for guys to wear.  I really find them cute, and a great little gift to give a guy on Christmas.

So there you have it.  My personal guide to Christmas gifts for your Gent.  

Keep Pat in your prayers...he finds out his Service Selection in less than two days...yikes!

P.S.  No, Pat...these are none of your gifts.  Way sneakier than that!

What I'm Wishing For

Hey Preps!

Thanksgiving has come and gone, and there is exactly a month until Christmas.  The holidays surely have crept up on me this year, and before I can truly enjoy them...there are quite a lot of papers to be written, tests to be taken, and chapters upon chapters to be read.  Yet, the anticipation of Christmas always seems to make the last few weeks of the semester a little bit 'cheery-er'.

So, even though I turned on my computer to attempt a paper...I ended up writing a new post instead.  It is so much easier for me to write about something I love.  My blog is a passion of mine.  An outlet.  My fun thing I treat myself to when the homework is done.  Yet, why can't I seem to have the same passion when writing a nine page paper for a class I dislike?

Anyways, that's besides the point.  The point is we have 30 days until Christmas!  That is it!  Eeeeeek!
Excitedly, I have started putting together some Polyvores themed with gifts.  I thought I would start off the gift ideas with a Polyvore of items I would be thrilled to receive this Christmas:

Christmas List 2011 by pittsburghprep featuring ballet flats

J Crew cable knit sweater
$178 - jcrew.com

J Crew trench coat
$250 - jcrew.com

J.Crew waterproof boots
$178 - jcrew.com

Tory Burch ballet flat
$235 - bergdorfgoodman.com

Kate spade handbag
$177 - katespade.com

Michael kors watch
amazon.com

J.Crew retro sunglasses
$420 - jcrew.com

C. Orrico Lilly Pulitzer Toasty Mittens Hotty Pink The Gangs All Here
$48 - corrico.com





So what's on my list?


The first item, is a Cable-knit sweater...I already have a few, but you can never go wrong with a traditional and cozy sweater.  The color of the one on my Polyvore (found at J. Crew) is really playful, and could definitely jazz up a simple gray pencil skirt, or a pair of jeans...it works with any look you are going for.  


Next on the list, is a military-inspired trench coat (also from J. Crew).  I love the royal blue color of this jacket, as well as the way it can be tied to show off your waist, while staying warm.  I always feel when I am dressing for the colder months that I look like a big puff ball in all of my layers.  This jacket would be a perfect way to avoid my typical puff ball look.  Practical and cute, that's my kind of clothing!


Speaking of practical and cute, Sperry Top-sider has the cutest Sheerwater Boots.  They are waterproof and have wool inside.  Plus the traction on them is great for any college girl dealing with the icky snow.  I have a pair of plaid ones that I am obsessed with, but I need a median between my Bean Boots, and my plaid Sheerwater Boots, so I am asking for this fun, pink lined one for Christmas.


As a prep, there are some times where you just have to add a little sparkle to your outfit.  What better way than adding a pair of sparkly, scaled, Tory Burch flats to your wardrobe?  


Going down the list, the Kate Spade military inspired purse comes up again.  I love this purse so much that I even wrote a recent post on it.  I would love to see this under the tree Christmas morning.

I love watches.  ADHD is so much better managed with watches.  I actually have a problem that I like to call "phantom watch syndrome", where I accidentally look at my wrist to check the time even though I'm not wearing my watch.  Therefore, I think this Michael Kors watch is calling my name.  I love the turtoise patterning of it, and think it very versatile.

Next on the list, a pair of retro shades.  I have been dying to try a pair of early 60's inspired shades like these.  Definitely something unique, that can dress up a winter outfit.

Pink and green plus Lilly Pulitzer, in a warm mitten?  I love the C. Orrico mittens in the winter collection on Lilly's website.  They would be such a fun accessory that would make the winter months a little bit more manageable.

Finally, what could be preppier than the bangle by Lilly Pulitzer?  I love the pink and gold color combination, as well as the fish-scale look!  This would be such a fun gift to receive, don't you think?

Concluding, I still could go without all of these items and still be happy.  I truly can't wait for more time with my huge family and amazing friends this Christmas.  Still feeling extra blessed today.

What is on your Christmas list?

Thankful Thoughts

Hey Preps!

(Outfit of the day: Cinched Corduroy Dress from Lands' End Canvas

Gray Textured Tights

Carlos Santana Flats...don't judge...they are amazing!)

It's well after midnight, so maybe not officially Thanksgiving anymore...but that doesn't trump how incredibly thankful I am.  Today consisted of way too much food, family members overflowing within my house, and friends that you can spend months away from...yet still pick up right where you left.  Days where you are surrounded by those who love, support, and uplift you are the best.  There is absolutely no denying that.

I started questioning why we don't have more holidays like Thanksgiving today.  Why don't we constantly surround ourselves with positivity? Why are there so many days where I take the blessings in my life for granted? The whole binge eating thing should very intelligently be limited to once per year...yet everything else Thanksgiving stands for should be the way we live our daily lives shouldn't it?

So, as we complete another year of turkeys and pumpkin pie...I challenge you to radiate positivity and graciousness everywhere you go.  Truly take the time to think about everything you have been blessed with in your life, and appreciate those people and blessings that have created you to be the person you are today.

That being said, I will leave you with one of my favorite quotes, said by Mother Theresa; a woman who took her circumstances, and made the world better through them.


"Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier."

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

God bless!

Making Camo Heroic AND Fashionable

Hey Preps!

Would y'all look at that?

Caught. Red-handed...macking on my ridiculously debonair boyfriend.

He's wearing a bow-tie.  How could I even resist?

There truly is nothing a guy could wear that 'woos' me like a bow-tie.  I truly have an admiration for those who make the effort to wear them.  Think about it: a lot of guys don't know how to tie a bow-tie.  So they never wear them.  The guy who takes the time to learn, and wear an accessory that stands out above the norm...must have a gentleman's heart beneath his fashion statements... or at least I hope there is.  

A particular company, that I was introduced to within the past year...has stolen my heart when it comes to bow-ties.  I have written several posts on this company in the past; the last anticipating their Fall/Winter 2011 Collection of bow-ties (or beaus as they so rightfully call them).  Starboard Clothing Company is an up and rising clothing line, out of Annapolis, Maryland.  

How fitting considering that my bow-tie wooing boyfriend goes to the Naval Academy right?  

To find out more about Starboard Clothing Co.  feel free to read my posts about them by clicking here or there.  

So, the anticipation has finally ended, and Starboard Clothing Co. released their new collection last week (just in time for Christmas)!  I am quite impressed with the creativity and fabrics of the new beaus...as well as the selflessness, owner/founder, Mr. Meredith, shows through his new collection.  Let me explain, and show you the new collection.  Sound peachy?

(all photos courtesy of Starboard Clothing Co.)

CPL. SPIRES DIGITAL CAMO BEAU

Selflessness is shown through Starboard Clothing Company's honor of our military.  This beau is inspired after the Digital Camo worn by the USMC, and a dear friend to Starboard Clothing Company, Corporal Travis Spires.  A portion of every beau sold will be donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.  What a great way to honor our veterans, and our troops currently serving.  Not to mention that this beau is quite a standout from the crowd, and would be fun to buy for any veteran, serviceman, or hunter on your Christmas list.  SUPPORT OUR TROOPS, in a really fun way!

BASKERVILLE HOUNDSTOOTH BEAU

So here's the thing...I am in love with Houndstooth check patterns.  I have headbands, flats, and a skirt in this pattern, and find it incredibly fun to wear in the winter months.  What I find alluring about this beau is the classic yet incredibly 'go to hell'-ness of it that screams prep, as well as gives the impression that the one wearing such a beau is a good time.  Talk about good first impressions...

CHRISTMAS PLAID 2011 BEAU

Listen up folks, this beau is Limited Edition.  Why?  It is an exclusive beau just for the Christmas season.  Let's get real gentlemen...why wouldn't you want to be rocking a beau like this during the holidays?  I am a huge sucker for flannel and plaid.  To have a thick flannel-like material combined with this perfect Christmas plaid...I'd have to say this is my favorite of the group.  Ladies, how fun would this be to give as a gift to your man? It makes me just want to tie one of these around Pat, throw on a huge chunky sweater...and curl up by the fire...too much info? Sorry, I miss him!

POLLITT PLAID BEAU

Another Limited Edition beau, that I ensure will sell fast...this beau is perfect for any occasion.  It can be worn in many versatile ways given the look you are going for.  It would be perfect with a navy blazer, but could be worn just fine with a casual button-down and sweater as well.  It reminds me of the pattern of a school jumper I wore as a uniform back in grade school.  Maybe why I am so fond of it?

HOBBES PLAID BEAU

Aren't y'all just loving all the plaid?  This beau is rightfully named after the famous philosopher Thomas Hobbes...whom of which I recently studied in a philosophy class.  How perfectly ironic!  The maroon, navy, and cream found in this beau are a lovely combination, and I would be proud to be in the presence of any gent who was wearing this beau.

WINTER MADRAS BEAU 2011

I already miss summer.  I miss the beach, the barbecues, and the madras.  Apparently, so does Starboard Clothing Company.  They found a madras that works great in both the winter and summer months...just as I was losing hope of ever seeing the sun again...this beau gives us that glimpse of the light of summer at the end of the wintry tunnel.

So, gents...woo those ladies with a creative classic beau from Starboard Clothing Company!  

Flaunt It With Flats

Hey Preps!

Currently at work in glasses.  Everyone keeps telling me I look like a professor/smart.  Thanks? So are you telling me I look dumb without them?

First impressions are a big deal.  I remember my freshman year of college, I got dressed up the first day of school.  Curled my hair, picked out my outfit days ahead of time....and as a science major, I look back on my decisions and wonder what my professors thought.

I have been underestimated many times because of my appearance.  I later even had a science professor tell me they underestimated me (until I Aced the first test). So now, on the first day of class, I rock my glasses.  I don't wear anything that makes me stand out, because I don't want to be thought of in a way that belittles my intelligence.  

As a girl who dresses in a more modest and classic way, I sometimes struggle with finding something that adds a little flare to my outfit.  Especially during the week when I am not always trying to make a fashion statement.  

I want people to look back and remember who I was as a person, not my outfits. I need comfort that still looks classy and polished...and I need my preppy style toned down a notch.  My 'go-to' outfits usually consist of a cardigan and corduroys or cute trousers in the winter.  Yet, I don't want to look completely boring, so yes...I spice it up with headbands, scarves...and my flats.

I have found that the easiest way to add that flare I so desire in my wardrobe is by adding a pair of fun flats.  A few of my favorites are shown above (but not limited to).  They are versatile, and can dress up a pair of jeans, or can be worn as a comfortable alternative to heels.

What are your favorite flats to flaunt?

Thanksgiving is so soon!

Y'all better be listening to Christmas music!

Thanksgiving Thunderstorms?

Hey Preps!

Last night...I couldn't sleep.  My throat felt yucky, my pup took up the middle of the bed (as usual), and it was thundering outside?

Yes, thundering in November.  Not that I'm complaining because thunder means warmer weather...and one of the reasons why I initially moved South for college was to avoid walking to class in the freezing cold...

Yet, something I look forward to is a chilly Thanksgiving and snowy Christmas...so I can't believe I'm asking this...but weather...could ya please be chilly JUST on Thanksgiving?  We can be warm the rest of the year, and I will be content but sheesh I don't want my Turkey to sweat all of it's juices out instead of cooling off from the oven...(okay maybe a tad too sarcastic)

So thunder usually means rain...and you bet it just had to rain on the only day all of my classes need me to bounce from building to building on campus...

Yet, I am not one of those girls who squeamishly sprints out of fear of getting a droplet of rain on her precious hair-do.  Nope.  I like puddles...I purposely splash in them.  It's like playing in the leaves (only not as much fun). Today I may have purposely splashed a few of those little squealing girls too (shh don't tell!).

"OMG IT'S RAINING OUTSIDE! LET'S ALL SCREAM ABOUT IT LIKE IT'S THE APOCALPYSE!"

Sorry, but if you are one of these girls...just tone it down a few notches.  Sure, nobody likes ruining their hair or getting wet...but as a former swimmer...I didn't have a choice.  So therefore, if my hair turns into a big curly rat's nest.  Oh well.  This too shall pass.  I'm not gonna scream about it.  Plus, the gents would also like their eardrums not to be ringing every time they have to endure the rain either.  So, if you're trying to make a gent swoon over you...don't squeal. Please?

Keep Calm and Carry On.  It's a way of life.  So live it, and splash in those puddles a little bit.

I mean I'm not asking you to get soaked playing in mud puddles all day, but grab a pair of Wellies, and enjoy the thunderstorm in the middle of November.

That being said, I rocked my candy apple red Hunter Boots today.

Thunderstorm in November? by pittsburghprep featuring knee high boots

Yep, I love my Wellies.  I feel like I can handle anything Mother Nature throws at me in them.  Then I was feeling a tad bit lazy today (being drastically ill and all) and paired my Wellies with Jeggings...then I threw on a casual button-up from J. Crew...and kept dry with my Barbour jacket.  I added my Burberry clutch for a little of a fashionista twist...and was on my way to class.

Lazy, rainy, college day...turned prep.  Now go splash in some mud puddles!