In Hiding...Shhhh!

Hey Preps!

You know it's bad when you are alone in a computer lab

that is usually bursting at the seams with college kiddos.

Which is why I thought it'd be so cool to take pictures of myself, 

since I can't any other time in here.  

Pretty much hardcore rule breaker right here. 

Well hello.  Guess where I should be right now?  Somewhere with my least favorite person ever.  Somewhere I have spent three long years locked in, and let me tell you...round four isn't going so well.  As a transfer student to the school I now go to, I had a pretty hectic fall semester from figuring out classes to meeting with mentors and fighting about classes that would/wouldn't transfer.  Ughhhh.  It was a very horrid process that I wish to never repeat.

Transferring might have been worse than that first week of college your freshman year.  You know, the week where you and your roommate realize that not all of your stuff is going to fit into the room as easily as you planned...you have to eat at the Caf, and have yet to figure out seating arrangements...you are oriented...yeah you know what I'm talking about if you are currently in or graduated from college.

Well why was transferring worse?  No orientation, no group of kids who are clueless and have no friends like you, no mercy of the professors because you are an "upperclassman".  Mainly, I have a bone to pick with one professor, who has made transferring a nightmare for me.  He is my advisor, a Biochemistry professor, and yep, he of course WOULD be the one who got selected to be my mentor for my senior research.

So today alone this is what he did wrong according to Kalyn:

• Was 30 minutes late to our "meeting"
• Told me that my current college is much more academically challenging than my previous college (let me be the judge of that one buddy)
• Made fun of my Vera Bradley watch (no, no)
• Now he is making me stay late...why?  Because he was late this morning of course
• So I should be sitting on this computer making a little graph of nothing...but he left for the day, and well...I'm not doing it

You see I am very hardworking when it comes to my academics.  Almost to a point of OCD.  Yet, I am beyond sick of this.  Sick of my Biochemistry major, sick of being stuck on a computer in a LAB, and sick of "Mister Pompous Biochem Prof".  So, I vented, again.  Sorry!  Pat is out at sea right now, so I can't vent to him (I am sure he is very disappointed though).

But stay tuned, because I am about to work on an actual post that has nothing to do with my boring personal life.

Workin' On a Tan

Hey Preps!

Thanks for all your support.  It really helped me to read all your comments.  As an American, I am really thankful for freedom of speech.  That alone has allowed me to become the person I am today.  There is never a time where I will disrespect someone because their views are different than my own, and I feel like a healthy debate makes one grow tremendously.

 However, sheesh!  That is all I have to say.  Sure there are times where I don't like what someone is wearing...and I will admit, being someone who dresses traditionally, there are times where I get made fun of, or called a "mom" for what I am wearing.

Freedom of speech, freedom of dress.  I like who I am and my style reflects that.  And you know what?  I think Brooks Brothers is sexy.  Yep I said it.  Guys who wear BB, you have my heart.  Keep it up.

So today,  I decided to wear my "white, faux preppy" (quoting Hamilton of course) Cape Madras tunic and Lacoste hat to the pool.  Finally half a day without work...and well...I look pasty.

You guys really are the best!  

Oh Irony...I am Annoyed

So I am insulted.  Earlier today I blogged about the new college apparel line that Brooks Brothers is expected to release.  Today someone brought to my attention that my boyfriend's picture was on a Brooks Brothers' bashing article that you can find by clicking here.

Let's get one thing straight.  This writer decided to use a picture taken to show how ridiculous preppy wardrobe is.  However, as followers of my blog, you should all know that this was taken at the Annapolis Cup.  Which has one rule...dress over-the-top.  He must be very ignorant if he thinks preps dress like this on a daily basis.

Furthermore,  he decides to say that Brooks Brothers picked the 15 "whitest" colleges in the country.  CORRECTION:  Do you know how hard it is for a "white" male to get into the U.S. Naval Academy?  The Academy prides itself on diversity.  Once again using MY picture as propaganda in a very distorted way.

Ughh...I guess we are all entitled to our own opinions, but next time, Mr. Hamilton Nolan, GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT.  Also, classy move on insulting our military.  The guys who serve for the freedom that allows you to write poorly researched junk like this.

(ohhh and just a post note...Hamilton decided to delete his section on "white" colleges, THANK YOUUUU)

Brooks Brothers' Newest Apparel...Did Your College Make the Cut?

Hey Preps!

Leave it to Pat to find some exciting news in the fashion world before me.  Last night, he sent me a link that he found.  It read: "Brooks Brothers Announces Plans to Sell College Apparel for First Time in their 200-Year History".  Ahhhhhh!  Aren't you just dying with excitement?  

However,  sorry to break it to you, but only an elite 15 schools made the cut.  Did yours?  Here is the list:


1. Harvard
2. Notre Dame
3. NYU
4. Boston College
5. Georgetown
6. Princeton
7. Ohio State
8. Auburn
9. Virginia
10. Cornell
11. Alabama
12.  Vanderbilt
13.  Georgia
14.  Stanford


annnnd....


15.  The U.S. Naval Academy

Woohoo!  Navy made the cut! But what type of apparel of these 15 schools consist of?  The line of licensed college apparel contains men's sweaters, dress and polo shirts, and ties!

According to Bloomberg:

"The agreement between Brooks Brothers, a unit of closely held Retail Brand Alliance Inc., and the college division of IMG Worldwide Inc., the sports agency owned by buyout specialist Ted Forstmann, allows for the sale of merchandise from 15 schools. The merchandise line is a vehicle for Brooks Brothers to reach fans of college sports who, according to IMG, earn more money than followers of any professional sport, including the National Football League.

“The key for us is re-establishing our connection with what we call the college community -- students, faculty and alumni,” Karl Haller, vice president of strategy and business development for Brooks Brothers, said in a telephone interview. “We have a pretty well-educated customer and there’s a built-in opportunity with alumni who are already our customer base.”

Also, I was surprised to see how many more college sports fans there are than professional sports fans (such as the NFL):

"According to ESPN, there are about 172 million college sports fans in the U.S. About 20 percent of them earn more than $100,000 a year; 12 percent make $100,000-$150,000; and 8 percent earn more than $150,000, said Scott Bouyack, senior vice president for brand and business development at IMG College, which represents more than 75 percent of top-tier football schools and almost half of men’s and women’s basketball programs.

“As stewards of the college brand, we long looked at Brooks Brothers as an ideal partner in terms of a retail outlet that targets a key group of alumni and a demo that fits with the college market,” Bouyack said in a telephone interview."

I am already anticipating the line to be released.  Although I feel like I may have to buy a men's sweater since they don't have any women's apparel in this line.  So Brooks Brothers, if you read this (which is unlikely) I would definitely be a customer of your women's clothing in your new college apparel line!

Either way, Brooks Brothers does it again!  Which colleges do you think they should add?

Hello Monday, I'm Ready

Hey Preps!

Outfit of the Day:

(Lacoste Polo, Ralph Lauren Chino Shorts, J.Crew Flamingo Belt)

Today is just crazy.  Plain and simple.  I'm already exhausted and it's noon!  However, Let The Tide Pull Your Dreams Ashore is hosting an awesome giveaway!  A Smathers & Branson needlepoint belt!  Make sure you check it out!

Hope you all are having a great start to your week!  I will be back later tonight!  

Ellen Allen, Making Tradition Chic in Annapolis

Hey Preps!


Have you ever just kicked yourself?  You know, the kind of kick where you think, "why didn't I know this before?".  Well, a few days ago.  I did so.  As a frequent traveler back and forth to Annapolis, I pride myself on knowing the town.  I can list off my usual routine of stores and eateries that I must stop in, yet, I was completely dumbfounded when I was contacted by Miss Jennifer Mann, Director of Sales of the company, Ellen Allen, that is based out of Annapolis.  

Sometimes I have companies contact me to write about them...but I won't unless I truly love the substance within and what they stand for.  Ellen Allen, far exceeds my expectations when it comes to that.  So, do you want to learn about them?  


I am dying to dig deeper.  Shall we?


The company was started by Ellen Allen.  A Maryland resident herself, she used the history and architecture of the East Coast, and turned it into a convenient yet fashionable line of lifestyle products such as handbags, cases, scarves, and ties.  Each one of her patterns is inspired by a specific piece of the East Coast.  Her products are durable, fun, and classic.  Perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle.  


Aren't you just dying to see Ellen Allen's products?  Here are a few of my favorite:


First, I find it appropriate to start with one of their most popular products, the Eastport.  

The Eastport is a large, water resistant tote.  It has side pockets, and two interior zip pockets.  For a girl like me, who is always on the water, this tote is perfect for a day of boating, and can safely hold everything you could possibly need for the day.  


Extracted from Ellen Allen's website is the inspiration behind The Eastport tote: 
"Since it was first settled in 1665, Eastport has served as the prime location for boating in Annapolis. Known fondly to locals as the Maritime Republic of Eastport, here you will find most of the area’s marinas, boat builders, sail makers, yacht brokers, and sailors. The Eastport bag is the perfect tote to hold all of your supplies for a day on the water."


I absolutely adore that they incorporate the lifestyle and history of the East Coast and make into an affordable, chic, and convenient bag!
The Eastport can be bought in the following colors (all named after streets in Annapolis):

Calvert Green

Steele Navy

Gloucester Yellow

Next on my list of favorites is, Murray Hill.  Looking for a perfect shoulder bag to use for the summer?  Mury Hill should be on the top of your list.  I can see myself putting this bag to great use.  Especially flaunting it around Annapolis.  To me, it is classic.  It's pattern is my favorite of all the products, and I will surely be purchasing this bag.  

Once again, I must share the great inspiration behind this bag, which I found on their website:
"Bordered by West Street and Spa Creek, Murray Hill serves as one of Annapolis’ premier neighborhoods. With walking distance to downtown Annapolis and an isolated atmosphere featuring waterfront homes and expansive yards, the residents of Murray Hill experience the best of both worlds. The Murray Hill bag provides you with both fashion and functionality in one smart handbag."


The Murray Hill is found in the following colors:

Steele Navy

Gloucester Yellow

Looking for something a little smaller?  Next on my list is the Oxford, a clutch perfect if you aren't looking to carry your entire life around with you for the day.  It is lockable, and has an interior pocket with a zipper and 16 credit card pockets.  

"This is not your average clutch. Named after the charming waterfront town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, this accessory is just as functional as it’s style is classic. Travel from work to dinner with ease with the Oxford Clutch."

The Oxford comes in Calvert Green

Now onto, my favorites of Ellen Allen's line.  The scarves!  Each scarf has an individually fun pattern, that specifically represents a piece of the Eastern Shore's unique history and beauty.  

My favorite would have to be the Chevalier scarf.  The designs of this scarf are inspired by a specific piece of architecture found within the Naval Academy's walls.  The iron patterns found on the scarf are meant to resemble that of the designs found leading into the crypt of John Paul Jones, an early naval hero in America's history.  This scarf is has the perfect combination of yellow and navy, and is a must buy for me, given that I attend a great deal of Naval Academy events...and must be in the appropriate colors to cheer on the Goats!  

My other pick for a scarf is the Serapis.  Like the iron design found on the Chevalier scarf, the Serapis also has the iron design found to represent the architecture going into the crypt of John Paul Jones, which is located at the Naval Academy.  Yet, there is a twist to this scarf given it's name comes from the ship that John Paul Jones captured during the Battle of Flamborough Head.  To add a little flare to the scarf, fish are also found outlined on the scarf.  It comes in the classic colors of Pinckney Pink and East Street Orange.  

Hey gentlemen!  Do you think we would really leave you out?  
Ellen Allen has great ties too!  

The Capital Tie represents Maryland's state house dome (that I always make Pat take pictures with me by).  After learning this, I can see the dome within the pattern.  The creative mind behind using a piece of architecture to create a unique pattern is second to none.  I am obsessed!

The Sadler Tie "Sadler residence, home to O’Leary’s Seafood Restaurant and Annapolis’ freshest fish for the past seventeen years. It’s easy to get hooked on this pattern, no matter where you went to school."


I adore this pattern!  


So, when Ms. Mann asked me to write a post about Ellen Allen, I was ecstatic.  I can not compare this lifestyle products company to any other.  The unique patterns, paired with the perfect and classic colors, finished with the inspiration found through the passion of the history and architecture of my beloved Annapolis is just outstanding.  NBC's Today Show, also must think the same, for they recently featured Ellen Allen this past March.  After researching this company, I will never look at Annapolis the same.  It truly is my honor to write about such a creatively put together company.  


And the best part?  The currently are holding a great deal!  30% OFF all Bags and Eastports if you enter "CHEER" at checkout!  I mean, here's your chance to buy a perfect summer accessory.  So ladies and gents, check out Ellen Allen!  You will not be disappointed.  


Also be sure to "like" Ellen Allen on Facebook and follow them on Twitter!
Ellen Allen is such a great company to support, and will be getting all of mine (as soon as I get my next paycheck haha)

Blog Sale!

Hey Preps!

I have a few Lilly Pulitzer items I am selling on the Re-Lilly Website, but thought I'd give my readers an opportunity to buy them as well!

Size 4 Lilly Dress...Has beach flip-flops and flowers on it...Not sure of the pattern name?

Bought it off of Ebay and it was too big for me.  Does not have tags, but is in perfect condition

I can also verify it is authentic.  Selling it for $30 shipping included in the costs ( just because I love y'all).

Patchwork Skirt Size 2.  Worn once, and is now to big :( 

I absolutely adore this skirt!  Selling for $25 shipping included again.

Sulivan Dress.  Size Small.  NEW WITH TAGS. Perfect condition.  

Selling for $60 shipping included.  Retail value was $145.  

E-mail me or comment if y'all are interested!

Stay tuned to hear about a fabulous up and coming company from Annapolis later tonight!

Blogger Support: Lilly Lover Contest

Hey Preps!

Can I ask a huge favor?  I just entered a photo of my best friend, Renee, and I in the Lilly Lover Days Photo Contest!  The picture is from the Annapolis Cup 2011 (croquet match between the Naval Academy and St. Johns College).  It shows our true love of Lilly, and southern preppy style!  It would be a huge honor to have some of my beloved followers vote!  So if you don't mind, click this link, and help a prep out!

Hope y'all are having a blessed weekend!

It's Friday...

...and I have looked exactly like this all week.  My eyes are puffy, red, and tired.  No make-up.  Fro hair.  At least they let me pop my collar at work?  I have been up at 5am way too many days this week.  Today I am here in this horrible place, that I call work...from 6am to 9pm.  Someone save me please?

Tomorrow I open again....holy moley...no weekend for me.  Needless to say, I need coffee...or maybe a drink.  I can't decide which.  Probably neither since I don't want a ginormous headache tomorrow morning.  So instead I will just look at this new belt by Smathers and Branson.  Yeah...it makes me feel better:

I mean how cute is this?  I am kinda obsessed, and think every boy in America (above the age of 21, or if you consider them virgin cocktails) needs this belt.  It is just so fun!  Also, I see it as a great conversation starter.  If I was a single lady (which I happily am not) I would probably approach a guy wearing this belt.  Just sayin' guys!  

Enough of my complain session though.  Pat comes to see me today, even though I work when he's here.  Possibly the lake tomorrow after I work?  Or a round of golf?  If weather holds up?  

Flared Nostrils and Fancy Dresses

Two words.

FLARED NOSTRILS.

Obviously there is rarely a serious moment...

Yep.  We have already clarified the fact I am in a weirdo relationship.  

However have we clarified that it is quite costly to buy formal dresses for every event at The Naval Academy?

Because it is.  

So today I was browsing Bluefly and found some great discounts on some designer formal dresses.  Let me show you:

Notte by Marchesa 

Badgley Mischka Platinum Label

Tadashi Shoji

A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz

A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz

Alberto Makali

Alberto Makali

A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz 

As you can see I am a big fan of Allen Schwartz.  I found my Ring Dance dress on Bluefly and it was an A.B.S. by Allen Schwartz.  

I got the dress for half of the price the designer was selling it for.  So ladies in sororities, ladies with tons of fun events...get looking on Bluefly! I promise the dress selection will not disappoint you.

Castaway Clothing...Perfectly Preppy, Plain and Simple

Hey Preps!

I  am envious. I am talking a huge green monster of envy towards one of my best friends.  Guess where she is leaving for this Saturday? Nantucket...and she is getting paid to be there for three weeks.  Switch places please? As I sit at my boring work (that I can blog at it's so boring).

One store I suggested she check out is Castaway Clothing that originated on the preppy island of Nantucket (yes, they have a website too...and it has lots of mouth watering apparel).  The best part?  Ladies and Gents alike can find something that they will absolutely LOVE.

That being said, here are a few pieces I am dying to buy:

Sailing Shorts in Carolina Blue, Lime, Lemon, and Navy/Pink Seersucker

Embroidered Sailing Shorts (these are Lime with Pink Palm Trees)

Here are some of the other options:

 

I have been forever looking for anchor shorts in my size...now I just can't choose between all of these fabulous embroidered critters.  What could be better than Seersucker and embroidered lobsters?

Madras Shorts

For the men, I also picked out a few of my favorites:

Solid and Embroidered Harbor Pants...love the bright, preppy colors like the lemon, weathered red, and Nantucket navy.  The two embroidered pants I picked have American flags and golf clubs on them...perfect for Pat!

As for men's shorts...I fell in love with their Embroidered Cisco Shorts:

Perfect for any preppy gent!

They also have the shorts in these lovely patterns:

Seersucker Short Patterns

 

Perfectly Nautical patterns

My final pick for the men, were the pink and green Madras button-down oxford shirts!  Just perfect!

Aren't all of these just great?  Be sure to check out Castaway Clothing's Website