Gold Medal Winning Dress

So I know this dress is also featured in the "About Me" section of this site, but I just cannot ignore my absolute favorite professional dress! I got this number during spring break last year in preparation for my internship in London last summer. The moment I tried it on, I knew that it would be a winner. The perfect amount of fit at the top and a cute gold skirt on the bottom. It's a great canvas for accessorizing as well, from chunky, gold chain necklaces to a black bubble necklace, this dress can carry it all! It's definitely a work-horse in my closet. Clearly I've got my money out of this one and have no shame wearing it more than once...

From fish in chips in London...

...to Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco for PRSSA National Conference...

...to an internship photo contest...

...to cheesing in the J-School library.

While I'm sad to say that this Vince Camuto dress is no longer available, here's a similar fit and flare style from Vince Camuto with a fun lace twist.

Last two photos by my friend, Ben. Thanks, Benji!

Which piece in your closet is a constant go-to?

Everyday to Statement Jewelry

One of my absolute favorite ways to change up a look is with jewelry. Whether it is sprucing up an otherwise plain white blouse or playing up a certain color in a pair of patterned pants, jewelry can do it all. However, in an office environment, jewelry can sometimes be a little distracting. I've compiled an assortment of my everyday go-to's along with some work appropriate statement pieces. Now, frost yourself! (remember, from How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days?)

1. At work, it is always imperative that you are on time, especially in regards to billable hours for public relations. This classic watch ensures I am prompt and put together throughout the day. // MARC by Marc Jacobs

2. When it comes to earrings, I often find myself gravitating toward studs because they are so easy and go with just about everything. This pyramid shape adds a little bit of spunk to the classic look. Love this pair! // Vince Camuto

3. I can't be the only one obsessed with SATC here, right?! I have my own "Christine" necklace and find, just like Carrie does, that it goes with anything. Dress it up or dress it down! // Bauble Bar

4. I love love love rings! This simple bow-tie band won't get in the way when furiously typing out press releases. // Madewell

1. It is no secret that I've fallen in love with mint this season. But really, who hasn't? This piece is a fun take on the bubble necklace trend but in an updated (two-tone) color for spring. Perf with a crisp, white button-up. // Francesca's

2. I adore the chain link band on this watch! While it isn't too much of a "statement" piece, it's a fun take on a traditional watch. // Michael Kors

3. The light and dark pink hues in this art deco-inspired necklace are gorge! A perfect complement to a simple dress or blouse. A little bit of pizzazz without being too over the top. // Bauble Bar

4. J.Crew always has THE BEST jewelry ever and this season is no exception. If you want to play up a bit of color, these drop earrings are the perfect way to go. I can imagine pairing them with everything! // J.Crew

5. Stacking rings is a fun way to mix it up but sometimes I have a hard time figuring out which ones to put together. This set solves all my problems! // Madewell

6. When I go home for breaks, I work at J.Crew and I have been coveting this bracelet since summer 2011. It always comes back and looks timeless every season. It's a must have! // J.Crew

7. Sometimes bangles can be a little too much in the office. Think: annoying clinking when gesturing during a presentation. Big no-no! But this simple bangle offers a pop of color without being too loud (both literally and figuratively). // kate spade new york

How do you wear statement jewelry while keeping in mind the restrictions of an office environment?

Black and White

It is no question that I am a major fan of color. Anything bright and vibrant is right up my alley. My room at home is this shade of pink. I rest my case!

But one of my favorite trends for spring/summer is black and white. Especially in a professional environment, this is the perfect palette. The contrasting tones are contemporary and fun while still being adult. And they are also a great canvas for pops of color. You can see why I love this trend so much. I can share my love for color in appropriate doses. A win-win for any office.

1. I own this striped peplum number. It has the perfect amount of stretch and is super slimming! Plus, the peplum hides any problem areas, which is great after a lunch out. Add a cute orange-y coral bag and this is a perfect, comfy look for those warm summer days in the office.

Peplum Dress: Target // Orange Bag: Target // Black Pumps: Nordstrom

2. Another striped number goes great with a bright red belt. Not only does the belt cinch your middle, but it also adds a fun dose of color to an otherwise black and white dress. Add a black cardigan or blazer to take off the chill from the AC. These nude pumps elongate your gams and round out an easy, fun summer outfit.

Striped Dress: Target // Nude Pumps: Nordstrom

3. A simple pair of black pants and a white, silk peplum top (you can start to see my obsession for peplum here, right?) is the easiest outfit possible. To keep it from looking too waitress-y, add a fun pop with a neon necklace (I own it in coral but couldn't find it online) and leopard print pumps. This outfit is pretty ordinary but with the appropriate accessories, it looks anything but.

Peplum Top: Madewell // Trousers: Madewell // Necklace: Target // Leopard Pumps: J.Crew

I'm Back

So as you can see, I haven't been super active on the blog recently. A few things called school, PRSSA, and just plain life have gotten in the way. But I'm back with a little bit more focus. So here we go again!

I have exciting news! I just accepted an offer to be a Health and Wellness intern at Fleishman-Hillard this summer in Chicago. This is the perfect internship for me because I can combine my love of public relations and healthcare. Cannot wait to start!

But of course, when I found out I got the internship, I also knew that a shopping trip was in order to find even more professional clothes. While I have a sizable stock-pile from last year's internship, I could use a few new pieces to spice up my wardrobe. But let's be real, like I need a better excuse to shop.

Professional dressing is a special challenge for me because I love to show my personal style (read: florals, bright colors, stripes, and bold accessories) in everything I wear. These items are not always the most work-appropriate but I find it so much fun to try to make them fit. I mean, I want to feel like myself while still looking professional.

I would like to re-focus this blog to look at how college students can look professional on a tight budget or with a few key pieces while still expressing their personal style. I will also offer internship advice and be a resource for anything PR-related. Enjoy!