November Favorites

Lately, I've fallen into the time-suck known as YouTube vloggers (aka video bloggers). I'd never really followed vloggers before, aside from the occasional Jenna Marbles video. Now I find myself wasting hours watching haul videos or make-up tutorials. It's probably not a good idea I discovered this so late in the semester. 

Hands down, my favorite videos are the monthly favorites. I enjoy trying new things, so it's fun to see what my trusted vloggers are loving that month. Because I'm not as good on camera as I am in words, I thought I would just post my own November Favorites here. I hope to do this series every month, using the seven categories below to show you what I am obsessed with this month. Let me know what you think!

Casual // I scored this sweater for 40-percent off on Black Friday and have worn it so much since then. Last week I wore it twice alone and begged my roommate not to judge me for it (she didn't!). I love the funnel-neck and the neutral shade reminds me of something Olivia Pope would wear. It's a tad on the itchy side, but its loose shape easily makes up for it. No fabric touching my body equals a happy Christine. // Enchanting Sweater: Eddie Bauer

Fun // I've got to admit, I stole these socks from my mom. When she first showed me the pair, I made fun of them but I was in heaven after slipping them on my feet. I have abnormally large feet and these socks come in large and x-large sizes so they are super roomy and perfect for keeping my tootsies warm under boots in the winter. And the fact that they are mismatched gives them some character, don't you think? // Comfy Socks: Soulmate Socks

Beauty // I am not a fan of liquid eyeliner, yet I adore the winged-out look I see everyone pull off. I've been using Urban Decay pencil eyeliner for years, but I decided to give liquid another shot. After researching drugstore varieties online, I stumbled upon this option. It's super easy to apply (even for those that lack a steady hand) and stays on all day, yet is still easy to remove at night. // Super Slim Liquid Eyeliner: L'oreal

Professional // Also while Black Friday shopping, I discovered this sweater from J.Crew. If you've been in the store (or shopped online) lately, you know that J.Crew is all about embellished sweaters this season. And I am more than okay with that! Layered over a button-down, this slightly boxy sweater is instantly chic. // Jeweled Sweater: J.Crew

Wildcard // I love nail polish, especially during the winter when I can indulge in dark colors without appearing goth. What drew me to this shade is that it is definitely something I'd never seen before. It is purpley-gray but when the light hits it, it's slightly iridescent green. In the best possible way, of course. // Essie Nail Polish in Sable Collar

PR Advice // This article came into my inbox a few weeks ago and when I saw the words "office snacking" in the subject line, knew I had to open it. While this topic may sound silly, I was always faced with the tempting box of donuts sitting in the kitchen or Fleishman's infamous Thursday treat cart. As a girl who finds it hard to resist a chocolate-chip cookie staring me in the face, I found these tips really helpful. Major take-away: don't always take, take, take when it comes to snacking. Return the favor by providing treats the next time. // Proper Office Snacking Etiquette

Book // I rarely get time to read during school, but I had to make an exception for this book. Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere recommended this mystery novel and I seriously couldn't put it down. While the point of view takes a while to adjust to at first, this book kept me turning the pages. And the ending? Didn't see it coming! // Afterwards by Rosamund Lupton

What are some of your favorites right now?

Scandal!

To say I am obsessed with this (new to me) show would be putting it lightly. My friend, Jessica, recommended I watch it earlier in the semester but I never had the time to fully commit to it. I knew Thanksgiving would be the perfect time to binge-watch the show. And I was right! There are so many reasons why Scandal is fabulous, but I will break it down into four main reasons:

1. It's about PR (kind of) // Olivia Pope is D.C.'s "fixer," the woman you go to if you committed a crime and want to get out of it or want to get elected president. She is a media relations queen who focuses on listening to her gut. Olivia always asks her clients, "What do you want?" This question is equally important for anyone in public relations to ask of a client before working on a campaign. You must establish goals beforehand so that you know what you are working towards. We should all strive to be gladiators in suits!

2. The fashion! // Not only is Olivia incredibly smart, she also is an amazing dresser! Her style is classic in modern shapes and neutral tones. While I love adding a pop of color to most of my outfits, there is something so simply elegant about sticking to the basics. And just to show you what I mean...

You can't go wrong with a sleek grey suit. // This beige jacket is to-die with Olivia's chic long gloves.

Love this white Burberry coat and Prada handbag. Something tells me Olivia must have super powers to prevent spilling on herself.

Simply stunning in this champagne floor-length number.

3. I love presidents // I have a strange obsession with all things presidential. So much so that I shamefully admit that I would love to be First Lady one day. Although after watching this show I'm not sure I want all that responsibility, especially with a cheating husband. The plot twists are endless in this show, which always keeps you wanting more! It's so much fun to see the inside world of our government. Hopefully in real life it's a little less (I couldn't resist!) scandalous.

4. Olivia Pope loves wine // How she manages to consume copious amounts of red wine and still keep her figure, I have no clue. But her vino addiction is fueling my love for the Crate & Barrel wine glasses she uses in the show. I'm not a fan of red wine, but these adorable, tall goblet glasses sure make me want to give it another shot.

What shows are you loving right now?

Well, Hello Again!

Sorry I have been on a brief (ahem, a little over a month) hiatus on the blog-front. Life has been crazy lately. Blogging has been on my to-do list for weeks, but somehow it always got pushed aside. Now that it's dead week, I miraculously have extra time so here I am again! I thought I would give you a short recap of what I've been up to since you last heard from me. So here we go...

1. In October, I traveled to Philadelphia with 12 (whoa!) other IU PRSSA members for PRSSA National Conference. Talk about an amazingly energizing weekend! I always feel so refreshed after a PRSSA National event. I love connecting with members and hearing that they face the same problems that we do at IU is incredibly reassuring. It was fun to reconnect with old (and new!) friends as well as grow stronger as a Chapter. I can definitely tell you executive board meetings are so much more fun now that we all feel a little bit more (and sometimes almost too) comfortable with each other. Plus, it's fun having nicknames for each other now. Hello, Magsteph and Elijah! Here's a few take-aways from the weekend, plus details about the awards we won!

Part of the group after the Living Legends of PR keynote on Sunday.

We managed to sneak in some fun in Love Park on our last day.

We are PR!

2. In November, I participated in Hoosier PRSA's Half Day with a Pro event. I was placed at Borshoff in Indianapolis and had a blast hearing about everything they do at this PR and advertising agency. I also enjoyed meeting other PRSSA members from all over Indiana, which is always a fun result of these events.

3. I'm on the PRSSA Bateman Case Study Competition team this year and in November, we started our campaign. I love, love, love our team this year. While the work hasn't gotten too crazy yet, I know that we will accomplish great things because we all know how to work hard but also have fun while doing it. The best of both worlds!

4. On a fun (non-PRSSA) related note, I had an awesome time at a pre-Thanksgiving potluck with friends a few weeks ago. Every year, we get together and everyone brings a different Thanksgiving dish. And my favorite part, we all dress up. I wanted to show pictures of the dress I wore that I got at the beginning of the year, but didn't get a chance to wear until now. It's from the Prabal Gurung line for Target, so I don't think it's available anymore but it's perfect for the holidays. The dress is a little too short without tights, but very festive in red. Not to mention, super slimming with the black paneling on the side.

From left: my roommate, Carmen and friend, Mike Mack. Love these people!

5. I had the whole week off of school for Thanksgiving and I had THE BEST time lumping (read: relaxing) and eating the whole time. On top of this, I got hooked on a new show, but I'm saving this news for a whole different post because it's that good! Also, I shopped my butt off on Black Friday...and Thanksgiving (guilty!). My mom and I shopped from 9:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving to about 3 a.m. Then slept and were back at the mall by 10 a.m. and finally got home around 4:30 p.m. Let's just say we literally shopped 'til we dropped. But we scored some amazing deals on Christmas presents for family...and a few for us too!

What have you been up to lately? 

Finished!

I am happy to announce that I officially finished my #30DaysofJewels challenge! I know in my previous recap post  I talked about how much I enjoyed this challenge. And I did. But the second half was much harder than the first. I struggled to find new ways to wear old pieces and it was a hassle to plan my outfits around my jewelry options (this was especially true when packing for PRSSA National Conference - more on that in another post!).

I'm still glad I pushed myself to finish the challenge and I would highly recommend it to anyone who's looking to mix it up a bit with their wardrobe. While I didn't repeat any pieces, feel free to re-wear your jewels in different ways to create a new look! I would love to see what you come up with using the hashtag #30DaysofJewels!

For now, here's a run-through of the second half of the challenge and where you can find my looks. P.S. I wear my chambray top a few too many times - 6 times in the last 30 days!

Day 16 // Cheetah Ring: Camden Market (Similar)

Day 17 // Ribbon Gold Necklace:  Old Forever 21 (Similar-ish)

Day 18 // Wrap Watch: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 19 // Tortoise Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 20 // Gold Ring: Camden Market (Similar)

Day 21 // Pave Bow Belt: Old J.Crew (Similar)

Day 22 // Pave Link Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar) // Link Watch: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 23 // Floral Watch: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 24 // Rose Studs: Forever 21

Day 25 // Black Wrap Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 26 // Faux-Diamond Drop Earrings: Old Nadri (Similar)

Day 27 // Buckle Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 28 // Bubble Necklace: Charming Charlie

Day 29 // Turquoise Necklace: Charlotte Russe (Similar)

Day 30 // Dangle Earrings: Old J.C.Penney (Similar)

What's your favorite look from all of #30DaysofJewels?

Hold 'Em

I've already stressed the importance of investing in your own set of business cards. But you also need something to carry these business cards in. A "purse" of sorts for your cards. Need I say more?

Imagine you just met an incredibly awesome connection at a networking event. You two are really hitting it off and are ready to exchange business cards. Nothing is more embarrassing than having to pull out a plastic Ziploc baggie from your purse to retrieve your card. Well, maybe it would be equally embarrassing if you didn't have business cards in the first place!

Either way, business card holders are a must for transporting your cards in style. They show you are professional and prepared, two very important qualities in the job hunt! I have to admit I need to invest in a fashionable business card holder, so I rounded up some of my favorites. Christmas present, anyone?

1. Gold Envelope // I am a huge fan of gold and this sleek envelope would be perfect for stashing discretely in your purse. // See Jane Work

2. Let's Do Lunch // I love the minimalist design, and the cheeky "let's do lunch" engravement on the front is adorable. This holder shows your personality while not hitting you over the head. // kate spade new york

3. Tiffany's Blue // Nothing is more chic or timeless than Tiffany's. While this business card holder is definitely a splurge, it could be a good reward post-graduation. // Tiffany & Co

4. Patterned Envelope // The bright colors and fun pattern on this business card holder will stand out - in the right way! Added bonus - you will always be able to find it in your purse! // Etsy

5. Tory Burch // Another splurge, but the simple, classic design will be sure to last you for years! The cognac-colored leather is to die and would be the perfect complement to a Tory Burch wallet. // Tory Burch 

What kind of business card holder do you have?

Half Way There

You remember when I started doing the #30DaysofJewels challenge, right? If not, here's a refresher. Now that it's officially Day 15 (where did the month go?!) I thought I would do a recap of what I've worn for the past 15 days.

I knew I had a lot of jewelry, I just didn't know how much until I forced myself to mix it up a little bit. I'm having a blast rediscovering old pieces that I hadn't worn in years and also challenging myself to wear my favorites in different ways.

It hasn't really been a struggle to take pictures of my jewelry every day. In fact, it's been pretty fun! Although I will admit it is tricky on Sunday when all I want to wear is a sweatshirt and leggings. Besides that, I'm really glad I pushed myself to actually do this challenge.

However, it's lonely out there all alone in Instagram world. I want to see how you wear your jewelry! I love getting inspiration from others and stealing ideas from you! Use #30DaysofJewels to document your favorite statement necklace or fun arm party of bangles. Can't wait to see what you come up with!

Day 1 // Flower Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 2 // Bow Earrings: Forever 21 (Similar)

Day 3 // Cuff: Wholesale (Similar...kind of)

Day 4 // Stone Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 5 // Christine Necklace: Sarah Chloe

Day 6 // Leopard Ring: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 7 // Drop Necklace: Target (Similar)

Day 8 // Link Watch: Wholesale (Similar) // Bow Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 9 // Faux-Diamond Collar: Forever 21 (Similar)

Day 10 // Rose Gold Watch: Wholesale (Similar) // Rose Gold Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar) // Pink Chain Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 11 // Grey Link Necklace: Wholesale (Similar-ish...but still super cute)

Day 12 // JB5K Color Run - I was covered in jewel tones!

Day 13 // Delicate Stone Necklace: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 14 // Drop Earrings: Wholesale (Similar)

Day 15 //  Wrap Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar-ish) // Chocolate Gold Watch: Wholesale (Similar) // Stretch Bracelet: Wholesale (Similar but with spikes!)

Which day of the #30DaysofJewels was your favorite? Don't forget to Instagram your best jewels this month using #30DaysofJewels!

Italy Bound

I could not be more excited to announce that I will be spending my last spring break in Florence and Rome studying international public relations with the IU School of Journalism travel course. This course was offered when I was a freshman but I sat out on it then, assuming it would come back in future years. After sophomore and junior years passed without offering the course, I began to get nervous. But the School of Journalism brought it back for spring 2014 and I just cannot contain my excitement!

I traveled to London a couple of summers ago and it is crazy to think I'm going back to Europe. Another stamp on my passport. Eeep! Can you sense I'm just a little excited? And did I mention that we will be visiting a vineyard while we are there? I will be heaven. Between the wine, pasta, pizza and gelato I figure I will gain 20 pounds, but it will be totally worth it!

And as you can guess, I'm already planning my outfits and I'm sensing a shopping spree is in order. Another excuse to shop? Count me in!

Besides the amazing sites, shopping, and food, I am truly looking forward to learning more about tourism communications on an international scale. Public relations campaigns are increasingly becoming multinational and understanding how to reach your target public worldwide is imperative in the global communications industry. I can't wait to learn about how Italy creates global campaigns to draw more than 40 million tourists to the country a year. And with the amazing sites below, it is easy to see how they do it!

Il Duomo, Florence

Colosseum, Rome

Trevi Fountain, Rome

What would you pack on an Italian adventure? Any tips for learning Italian? Ciao!