Monday, March 7, 2016

Apartment Tour!


I am so excited to get to share a little bit of my apartment with you all! It is finally exactly how I want it. Good thing I'm moving out to a new apartment next semester... oh well another chance to decorate! I hope you enjoy my colorful and bright room...... 


My bed is my favorite place ever. You can usually always find me here. Most of my pillows are from the Lilly for Target collection but the flamingo one is from Hobby Lobby and my body pillow is from Target. The bed spread I have is from freshman year but I got it at Bed Bath and Beyond and it is Kate Spade! 

For an extra touch above my bed I hung a little tassel decoration and another garland from Target. I love that it gives a little something extra to fill up the otherwise empty wall. 


I don't actually use my desk for work, I never really have! I just love having little nick nacks out to show off my jewelry, books, and other random things. Personally, I'm obsessed with school supplies and pens. So, I have two mugs and a mason jar full of pens, scissors, and other random things. While shopping at Home Goods I found an adorable filer organizer (left had corner) that I keep my Jadelynn Brooke notebook, my Ban.do planner, and some cute file folders from Target. 

My gallery wall has to be my favorite part of my desk area. While I was abroad I collected a bunch of postcards and prints in the hopes of creating a fun gallery wall! Some of the prints I ended up choosing to showcase are from Paris & London to remind me of my time abroad. I also picked up some Gossip Girl themed prints from Trendy Sparrow. She has the cutest things in her shop! I also framed a few pictures of my boyfriend and I and hung up some canvases that I painted and one that my best friend Emily made for me. 

On my desk I always have my Lilly tumblr because I'm always drinking water. I also have the funniest pugtato coaster I found in a small shop in Shoreditch while I was in London. It's always something people notice while hanging out in my room. In addition, I keep all of my bracelets and most of my earrings on my desk for easy access while heading out the door. My large bracelet holder is from The Container Store, the small chevron dish is from J Crew, and I have a small pink arrow bracelet holder from Target! 


Laptop stickers: vineyard vines, Southern Tide, Jadelynn Brooke, Lauren James, Rowdy Gentleman, Lauren James, Eiffel Tower sticker (from Paris), Lauren James, Lauren James, KJP, and Fraternity Collection. 


This part of my room is always a crowd pleaser. Take me into koozie therapy because I have way to many! But, I've been wanting to do this decoration in my room for forever. All of my koozies have been collected over the past 2-3 years I would say. They are all from random places and were free with some of my purchases at my favorite preppy brands! Also, I had to show off my adorable Jadelynn Brooke flag I got for being a campus rep! 

Row 1 (L to R): Lauren James, Jadelynn Brooke, Lauren James, Jadelynn Brooke, vineyard vines, Lauren James, Fraternity Collection, Lilly Pulitzer, Southern Tide, Jadelynn Brooke, Target $1 section. 
Row 2 (L to R): Rowdy Gentleman, Rowdy Gentleman, Francesca's, Prep Obsessed, Lauren James, Rowdy Gentleman,  Rowdy Gentleman, Lauren James, Rowdy Gentleman, Rowdy Gentleman, Fraternity Collection. 


The living room and kitchen of my apartment is nothing glamours. But, our couch is pretty comfortable and our apartment came fully furnished (thank goodness for not having to move furniture in!). Our living room color scheme is purple with grey accents. There is nothing better then relaxing after a long day on campus. On Monday nights I'm always watching the Bachelor! My adorable Bloggers Gonna Blog mug is from Trendy Sparrow! 

What I'm wearing: 
Shirt: J Crew 
Shorts: Topshop 
Tights: Aerie 
Bracelets: Alex and Ani, Kate Spade 
Watch: Michael Kors 
Bow Bracelet: KJP 
Necklace: J Crew 
Photos c/o: Megan Goblish (my awesome big)


I hope you enjoyed a little peak at my life at school! Please comment below if you have any questions on where I got anything! Most of my things aren't brand new but I will do my best to lead you to similar products! 
XOXO 
Miranda 

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Friday, March 4, 2016

Blogger Spotlight: Charmingly Styled


Balancing blogging and a full time job can be difficult. But, Maya McDonald has created the perfect work life and blogging balance.

Chicago based blogger McDonald runs Charmingly Styled a beauty, fashion, and lifestyle focused blog. Working as a Midwestern blogger McDonald says there is an abundance of opportunities.

She said, “There are so many bloggers out in NYC and LA, so we’re lucky to able to work with big brands who want to expand to having a Midwestern presence.”

As a blogger from the Midwest myself, I think there are huge advantages of living outside of NYC or LA. It gives you the opportunity to stand out against other major bloggers based in fashion capitols.

When it comes to blogging in Chicago, McDonald has a few favorite spots to snap photos. McDonald said, “I love taking photos around my neighborhood of Lincoln Park because the streets and homes are just so darn cute!” 
McDonald also says the Westloop has colorful spots perfect for snapping blog photos. As for me, I love taking photos near Millennium Park when I am downtown.

When it comes to Chicago hangouts McDonald has a few favorites. She said, “I love SoHo house for a nice hangout spot or drinks, Bohemian House and Fat Rice for dinner, and then Floriole right around the corner from me for coffee and treats!”

McDonald works full time at Zapwater Communications in Chicago in addition to running her blog. As the social media manager, a blogger, co-founder for the lifestyle site Wandeleur, and a freelance social media manager, blogger, and writer McDonald has mastered having it all!

In addition to McDonalds other jobs she is the co-founder of Midwest Bloggers. Midwest Bloggers is a blogger collective to bring awareness to bloggers in the Midwest.

“My friend Lauren and I wanted to draw awareness to the fact that there's a huge pool of talent and untapped bloggers in the Midwest, so we started the collective in hopes of bringing people together and getting opportunities for bloggers,” she said, “It's been something we hope to continue to grow, and it's been a fun little side project over the years!”

Balancing so many projects and keeping up with her blog takes a lot of work and dedication!

As a very busy individual I can relate to balancing many jobs along with my blog. Being co-editor in chief of Trend magazine, the PR & Marketing director for The Fashion Show, taking 18 credits, along with my blog can be hard at times.

But, I know that maintaining my blog is a fun way for me to express myself outside of my other activities. Also, I’ve become a master of time management along the way.

As for blogging McDonald encourages people to start blogging for the right reasons. Many people start to blog to gain fame and to make tons of money.

However, you should start a blog to express your creativity!

McDonald said, “You have to stay true to yourself and know that you're proud of what you're creating”.

She also said don’t be afraid to network!

 “Don't be afraid to network! Reach out to a blogger to chat, create a masterminds group, and stay connected,” she said, “You'll meet so many amazing people that way.”

Thank you to Maya for taking the time to answer a few questions for me! It's so nice connecting with other midwest bloggers from Chicago! Be sure to check out her blog Charmingly Styled!
XOXO 
Miranda
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Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Jadelynn Brooke Un-Boxing!



As some of you may know I am a rep for Jadelynn Brooke which is an ADORABLE t-shirt company. If you haven't checked them out it is a must. From super cute short sleeves to new pajama shirts and long sleeves there are so many cute options to choose from.

As a rep we receive a little package each semester with new gear to sport on campus. For this post I thought it would be fun to show you all of the cute goodies I got for this semester! Each of these boxes is a surprise for us, we never know what will be in them. So, I was so excited to get my box and open it up to see what was inside. 


In this package I received some adorable new goodies. My favorite item is my pastel purple tee but all of them are way to cute for words. Jadelynn Brooke tees make the perfect casual campus look and are ideal for spring break. 

Shop these items: 
Preppy Purple Ruffle Signature Tee
Coffee Days and Confetti Nights Tee
Beach Bag

Do you want to pick up some new JLB items? Use the code IOWASTMP for a discount off your order!!! 
XOXO 
Miranda
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Monday, February 29, 2016

OOTD: Rompers Rule


I have been loving this romper lately! I dressed it up for Valentine's Day date, but it can be easily dressed down for a casual fun weekend day. While visiting Kansas it was in the high 60's and sometimes it was 70 degrees out! Hello spring? Nope I'm back in cold Ames. But, the nice break and sun was much needed. It makes me super excited for spring break. 



To create a more casual look I paired my romper with a oversize cozy sweater. I love this sweater because it is so soft! It's like wearing a blanket, but more put together of course. By adding a sweater and a pair of tall boots it creates a more casual look. To complete the look I added a bold statement necklace and a stack of bracelets (obviously!). 


Where it's from: 
Romper: 
Sweater: Nordstrom 
Necklace: J Crew 
Bracelets: Alex and Ani, Armed & Readi 
Watch: Michael Kors 
Earrings: Kate Spade 
Tights: H&M 
Boots: Sam Edleman 


How do you wear your rompers? Let me know in the comments! 
XOXO 
Miranda 



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Friday, February 26, 2016

Blogger Spotlight: Prep Avenue


To keep things preppy, my next blogger spotlight is on Shannon H from Prep Avenue. Shannon’s adorable colorful journey in life is documented by her equally adorable blog.

Shannon started her blog as a senior in high school after being inspired by reading other blogs.
She said, “I have always been interested in digital marketing and this was a cool way to practice my skills!”

Prep Avenue covers topics from Shannon’s preppy style, life as a college student, along with other random thoughts she wants to share with her readers.

Shannon is a college student at Furman University in Greenville, SC. Being a college student and balancing a blog can be a hard task. As a college student myself, balancing blogging with course work and extracurricular activities can be a struggle. But, it is all about finding the perfect balance. Although college bloggers like to think that you can balance everything, sometimes your blog has to suffer because of your course work.

“Prep Avenue occasionally gets put on the back burner when my school load gets rough,” Shannon said, “School is my priority right now!”

Blogging can particularly get tough while studying abroad.While I studied abroad I was able to keep up with my blog fairly well. Although I had 15 credits the work wasn’t as time consuming as back at Iowa State. Shannon recently studied abroad to Italy where she had some struggles keeping up with Prep Avenue. With a heavy course load, weekend travels, and unreliable Wi-Fi it was often hard to keep up with posts.

But, blogging while studying abroad can be a great way to remember the things you have done and seen. “I was able to get a post up about every place I went,” she said, “It’s fun because I’ll be able to look back on those posts and pictures.”

Although difficult at times maintaining a blog is especially fun while in college and while studying abroad.

By documenting your travels and college experience you will be able to look back and remember the memories and times you’ve had.

Shannon is currently a junior in college and is graduating in about a year and a half. Despite graduation coming up Shannon anticipates keeping her blog alive post-graduation.  

“After graduation, I definitely still see myself blogging I’m just not sure what I’ll be doing or where I’ll be living,” She said, “I guess we’ll just have to see!”

If you don't already follow Prep Avenue it is a must! Shannon's adorable blog and social media accounts will brighten your day. Also, be sure to check out her posts from her adventures abroad because she traveled to some amazing places! 
XOXO 
Miranda

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Wednesday, February 24, 2016

OOTD: B&W Stripes


Hello warm weather! This past week I ventured off to KU and it was gorgeous outside. With 70 degree weather I can't help but want to get all dressed up! But, I know winter is not over (but I wish it was) so I created an easy cute look with a striped tee and flared skirt. While exploring we found this wall with a spray painted heart and it was the perfect OOTD backdrop. 


I love this top because it features my two favorite things: polka dots and stripes. It doesn't get much better! I paired it with a simple black skirt with a unique silhouette. Although I wear this as an everyday outfit this would be super cute if you wanted to dress up but still be comfortable. Pairing comfortable tees with more dressy pieces is a great way to reach a happy medium! 



For accessories I kept things pretty simple. I wore an all black rhinestone statement necklace along with some gold glitter stud earrings. My bracelet stack was simple with three Alex and Ani bracelets and a beaded tassel bracelet. To complete the look I added my pearl KJP bracelet. 



Where it's from: 
Shirt: J Crew 
Skirt: Topshop 
Tights: H&M 
Shoes: Dolce Vita 
Bracelets: KJP, Armed & Readi, Alex and Ani 
Watch: Michael Kors 
Earrings: Kate Spade 
Necklace: C Wonder 
Purse: Henri Bendel 


What is your favorite way to dress up a tee? Let me know in the comments! 
XOXO 
Miranda

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Monday, February 22, 2016

Easy College Meal


I am a terrible cook. So, when I suggested to cook for Valentine's day last week I was hesitant. But, I found a super easy recipe to make if your a college student living in an apartment. It's literally so easy that anyone can make it (even me)! 
What you need: Doritos individual bags, 1 pound of ground beef, 1 packet of taco seasoning, sour cream, shredded cheese, lettuce. 

Instructions: 
  1. Cook the ground beef- First start by browning the ground beef in a pan. Break up the meat with a spatula so it can evenly cook. 
  2. Drain the fat- First prep a plate with a paper plate stacked on top. Add some paper towels on top. After you cook the meat thoroughly pour the meat onto the paper towel. Pat down the meat until all of the fat is gone. 
  3. Add taco seasoning- Once you drain the fat add the meat back into the pan. Then follow the instructions on the taco seasoning packet. 
  4. Then your all done!- Simply add your taco meat and toppings to the individual Doritos bag to create your walking taco. 

What is your easy go-to recipe? Let me know in the comments! 
XOXO 
Miranda
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