Sweet Lemon Magazine [issue no.10]

SL

[ Issue no.1 0 ] summe r 201 3 NO.1

L e tt e r f r o m t h e

brand director

T

aking into full consideration the risk of sounding like a total cheeseball, I am hesitant to admit that as I sit down to write this “I Go Back” by Kenny Chesney is conveniently playing in the background. In all seriousness though, I could not think of a more perfect song to kick off the season (nope, his “Summertime” & Yoo-hoo talk doesn’t do it for me). One listen of Kenny’s song and I’m back in high school, spending every hour of daylight at the beach or poolside with my best friends and lemon juice in hand.

for most, but, for me, summer does just that.

Not only does this mean every possible excuse to sport white pants, host cookouts, enjoy cold cocktails, and soak up the sun (with proper SPF, of course!), but as the days grow longer, I begin to feel a little more alive than I do in the colder months of the year.

Growing up on the shores of the sunshine state, I was lucky enough to enjoy summer year round. Tanlines were just as acceptable on Christmas Eve as they were on the 4th of July. But it’s like Andy Bernard said in The Office: “I wish there was a way to know you’re in the good old days before you’ve left them.” I’m the first to admit that I took those precious years for granted, which is why I now find myself becoming even more excited when Memorial Day, our Nation’s birthday and the Summer Solstice (aka National Wear Your Lilly Day) approach.

It’s a season well suited for relaxing, spending more time with friends, and still finding the time to embark on that summer vacation (because who doesn’t miss family time?). It also just might encourage us to go for that summer fling that may or may not lead to more and walk away feeling a little more refreshed and sunkissed (or just more freckles, in my case) come the first Monday in September.

I think it goes without saying that when life gives ME lemons..I pray for summertime.

So before we watch summer fade to fall, here’s a toast to those on the coast and all y’all in between. And that’s all the Kenny Chesney references I’ve got. Cheers!

New Year’s Eve and watching that ball drop may represent new beginnings and resolutions NO.2

Brittney Ann Cardillo brand director @BAnnC

Meet the Sweet Lemon Team: Paris Rouzati // editor-in-chief Paris is part geek, and part chic. She fancies lame jokes, TED Talks, spontaneous dance parties, and red lipstick. She enjoys witty banter over a cup of tea (or two), and consumes more Nutella than recommended.

Her mantra: iWork to live, and iLive to give.

Follow her: @ParisRouzati - www.parisrouzati.com

brittney ann cardillo // brand director Brittney (BAC) is as girly as they come. She schedules time for handwritten notes, birthday cards and crafts, adores bubbly, polished paws and playing hostess to her friends. A Sunshine State native, she’s drawn to the sand and coast and has learned to embrace the freckles that come with being Irish. BAC loves dressing up, monograms and strives to live each day to its fullest.

Follow her: @BAnnC

meghan lynch // art director Meghan is a philosopher at heart, constantly striving to better understand the world -- One adventure at a time! She’s a perfectionist, lover of all things DIY, and maintains a major music obsession. Her dream is to one day be as cool as Maira Kalman, as noble as Atticus Finch, and... as happy as a clam.

Follow her: @M3gger - meghanlynchportfolio.com NO.3

I ss u e N o . 1 0 C ont r ib u to r s

design team:

Megan Chandler Contributing Designer @megachand

Anum Tariq Illustrator @anumtariq21

julia fountain Contributing Designer @jfount20

victoria budosh Makeup Artist & Contributing Author @victoriapaints

Emily Dingersen Contributing Designer

kaitlyn kirby Photographer @kekirby

editorial team: Ali Vitali Editor & Contributing Author @alivitali

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ZoĂŤ BjĂśrnson Editor & Contributing Author @kzoeb

rustic white photography Tiffany & Robert Peterson @rusticwhite

I ss u e N o . 1 0 C ont r ib u to r s

editorial team: Â

Carleton English Contributing Author @carletonenglish

clare austen-Smith Contributing Author @clareausten

Mae Badiyan Contributing Author @maebad

Mandy kellogg rye Contributing Author @waitingonmartha

Megan Peters Contributing Author @crazybananas

Nikki Rappaport Contributing Author @nikkirap

Rosi MoscA-Herrera Contributing Author

Sarah Solomon Contributing Author @urbanjap

Stefanie Dasher Contributing Author @lifeonthesqs

Alex Laughlin Contributor @alexlaughs

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jillian bremer Contributing Author @sweetnspark

Kate Otaga Contributing Author @hey_im_kate

Guide to:

[issue no.10 ] #shoparound 8. We’re Sweet On Destinations Shopping: 10. Miami & SOCAL 12. The Hamptons & Palm Beach 14. Roaring Fork Valley & The French Riviera 16. Beach Bag Must Haves & The 4th of July

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#Freshnews

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18. Entertainment 22. Staying Social 24. #LillyLemonLove 26. Summer Calendar

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No.27

No.68

#sweetlife

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28. Summer Trend Look Book 45. Summer Wedding Look Book 68. Poor Little It Girl Q&A

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#lemonaid 90. Why Abercrombie Hates You 94. Rick Ross’s Rape Problem is Our Problem Too 99. Need A Job? Get In Line.

104. How to Run With The Bulls & Hide From The Bears 110. Blaire Culwell of Leap Design Q&A

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#zestyliving 118. Spring Into Your Fittest Summer Yet 126. Guide To a Summer Sioree 151. Preppy Brand History 160. DIY Wardrobe Remix: The Ballet Flat Upgrade 166. Summer Sweet Treats 168. Waiting On Martha: Cocktails

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#lemonlove 174. Fave Finds for Summer ft. Illustrations by Anum Tariq

No.126 No.146

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No.168 NO.7

#shoparound

We’re Sweet On From Atlanta to Annapolis.

Champagne to Soda. Paris, Brittney, & Meghan share their summer loves.

paris

MAC Ruby Woo Lipstick

who: editor-in-chief where: atlanta, ga

Downton Abbey DVDs Vix Senegal Embellished Bikini Top & Bottom

Tory Burch Robinson Spectator Tote

Loeffler Randall Heddie Sandal

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brittney

PFMTY Tortoise Monogram Necklace Jill Rosenwald Links Peony Vase

who: Brand Director where: washington, dc

Blair Ritchey “Going to Market” Tote Bliss A Tan for All Seasons

meghan

Mara Hoffman Bikini

who: Art Director where: Annapolis, MD

big Sipper mug

Maja Olender Bracelet

Blair Ritchey Mini Lulu Foldover

Madewell Silk Roll-Sleeve top

soulpancake: chew on life’s big questions NO.9

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miami curated by paris

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1 Vix Cozumel Bikini Top & Bottom 2 Louis Vuitton Neverfull Azur 3 Blee Inara Love Ring 4 Karen Walker Number One Sunnies 5 J. Crew Panama Hat 6 Athena Procopiou Kaftan 7 Deborah Lippmann Run The World Nail Set 8 Hipanema Bracelet 9 Musa Sandals 10 Tom Ford Cheek Illuminator NO.10

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1 Mara Hoffman Bikini 2 Gypset Necklace 3 Karen Walker Soul Club Sunnies 4 Superga Sneakers 5 Tory Burch Neon Crossbody 6 Flower Headband 7 Bobbi Brown Beach 8 Clover Canyon Fools Gold Dress 9 Aurielie Biderman Bracelet 10 Moto Beach Floral Denim Pants 11 Mara Hoffman Aloha Tee 12 Rupert Sanderson Sandals NO.11

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1 Topshop Bikini Top & Bottom 2 Sail to Sable Tunic 3 Juicy Couture Straw Hat 4 J.Crew Ikat Top 5 Haymarket Designs Towel 6 Kate Spade Wedges 7 Beach Bike 8 Kate Spade Champagne Box 9 Iomoi Beach Bag 10 Jack Rogers Hamptons Mid Wedges NO.12

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1 Britt Ryan Shift Dress 2 Theodora and Callum Scarf 3 Karen Walker Sunnies 4 Tory Burch Beach Tote 5 Pretty Smitten Coasters 6 Pretty Smitten Lucite Tray 7 J.Crew Necklace 8 Lilly Pulitzer Clutch 9 Jack Rogers Neon Navajos 10 Palm Beach Entertaining Book NO.13

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roaring fork valley 10

curated by Meghan

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1 ASOS Canvas Backpack 2 Pinch Provisions Snake Charmer Miniemergency Kit 3 Neff Thunder Sunglasses 4 Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25 5 CamelBak Stainless Water Bottle 6 Nixon Time Teller Watch 7 Teva Sky Lake Hiking Shoes 8 DVF Loves Roxy Board Shorts 9 Lululemon Reversible Headband 10 Patagonia Spright Dress NO.14

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1 Maio Swim Textured Tribal Midkini 2 Nordstrom Linen Crown Sun Hat 3 TOMS Dodom Sunglasses 4 Topshop Lace Romper 5 Deena & Ozzy Gemma Festival Backpack 6 Coach Phila Jelly in Mint 7 French Riviera Map 8 Jonathan Adler iPhone Charger 9 Kate Spade Harrison Street Passport Holder 10 Korres Greek Yoghurt Lip Cooler NO.15

Beach bag must haves

Evian Facial Spray

curated by Brittney Tommy Bahama Beach Bag

Peter Thomas Roth Suncreen

L’Oreal Suncreen Oil

Commencement Beach Read

Eucerin Daily Protection Lotion

Tory Burch Sandals

Lolo Bag Case

Candy Store Ear Buds

Mane Message Hair Ties NO.16

American Flag Bag

Topshop Bikini Top

Smathers and Branson Baseball Hat Baublebar Bracelet Kate Spade Knot Earrings Topshop Bikini Bottom

Butter Nail Polish Kate Spade Chevron Top Kate Spade Chevron Scarf

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curated by Brittney

#freshnews

[entertainment]

On our shelves:

Waiting To Be Heard/ by Amanda Knox Even if you just browse through the news, you’re probably familiar with Amanda Knox’s story. A quick recap: Knox is an American student convicted of murdering her roommate while studying abroad in Perugia, Italy. Lots of outstanding questions linger about the nature of the evidence and testimonials during the trial, but essentially Knox and her then-boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito, were convicted in 2009, acquitted by an appeals court in October 2011, and then Italy’s highest court overturned that decision after prosecutors and lawyers for the victim’s family challenged that acquittal. Whew. Which means, the battle is not over for Knox and she must, once again, face the Italian court either at the end of the year or in 2014.

Her memoir, released in late April, allows her to present the story from her personal perspective. This book tells a “coming of age” story that is a gory tale of naiveté, international politics, and hyper media attention. Knox writes that “in the year since my conviction I’d decided that being a victim wouldn’t help me. I pulled myself out of the dark place into which I’d tumbled. I promised myself I’d live in a way that I could respect. And I would live as fully as I could in confinement.”

Though Knox is quite an enigmatic character -- this is the girl who was cracking jokes while being interrogated for murder, after all -- she does insightfully acknowledge her mistakes and uses her time in prison to enlighten her horrible situation.

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Minor Characters/ By Joyce Johnson In the late 40s and early 50s, post-WWII Americans were itching for answers beyond standard social norms. And so began a celebration of non-conformity and bursts of spontaneous creativity: the Beat generation. We’ve read some of their most famous works: Allen Ginsberg’s Howl, Jack Kerouac’s On the Road, William S. Burroughs’s Naked Lunch, etc. But their magnificent stories lacked one glaring thing: strong, central female characters.Cue Joyce Johnson. Ready yourselves lit nerds.

Johnson met Kerouac on a blind date (set up by Ginsberg) in 1957. Minor Characters is partly Johnson’s way to recount their famous love story. But, more interestingly, it also presents the challenges and hardships women in this generation faced trying to live a Bohemian life comparable to their male counterparts, while still confronting criticism from their families and society.

On the telly:

Arrested Development - Season 4 Available On Netflix After years of talks and rumors and too many fans still cracking their jokes, FINALLY, the newest season of Arrested Development will be released (en masse) on Netflix at the end of May. The show about the dysfunctional and hilarious Bluth family became the critic’s darling right from its first season back in 2003 and soon became a cult classic amidst it’s abrupt cancellation in 2006. Coming back strong with the same cast and creator and promising to give us more Halloween ideas (you know you’ve seen someone BLUE themselves!) and quotable lines to giggle for months, you cannot miss out on the biggest TV comeback in history.

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on the silver screen Now You See Me / In theaters May 31st Do you believe in magic? What if a certain magic trick could give you money? I think we’d all be believers then.

With an all star cast, Now You See Me follows an Interpol and FBI investigation that involves a team of illusionists, who may or may not have stolen one billion dollars and given to their audience as part of their act. This fast pace crime-action film promises to be quite an entertaining roller coaster ride for just about any type of audience. Remember, “first rule of magic? Always be the smartest guy in the room.” Featuring: Isla Fisher, Morgan Freeman, Mark Ruffalo, Dave Franco, Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Michael Caine and Melanie Laurent.

Girl Most Likely / In theater July 19th Kristen Wiig is probably the easiest person in Hollywood right now to love. Okay, maybe second to Jennifer Lawrence. But Wiig is the perfect physical comedienne: She’s witty and there’s a depth to her humor that makes her incredibly repeatable. Can you tell we’re girl crushing? Her newest project, Girl Most Likely, looks fun and light while also insightful. Imogene (Wiig) is a newly famous playwright who stages a suicide to get back with her ex and instead is placed in the custody of her gambling-addicted mother (Annette Bening). Bening’s portrayal of a slightly deranged, hip mom will surely bring out some of the film’s funniest quotes and her pairing with Matt Dillon will only assure more heartfelt laughter.

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Musique!

ADD TO YOUR SUMMER PLAYLIST: Make sure to check out these two awesome tracks that would go oh-so-well while you’re hanging out by the pool or at the beach: Lana Del Rey’s Nancy Sinatra cover “Summer Wine” Ft. Barrie-James O’Neill James Blake’s Joni Mitchell cover “Case of you”

‘Tis the season for live music & festivals!

newport folk Festival When? July 26-28th Where? Newport, RI Who? Beck, Feist, Andrew Bird and more!

lollapalooza When? August 2-4th Where? Chicago, IL Who? The Cure, The Killers, Queens of the Stone Age, Vampire Weekend, and Phoenix

Electric zoo festival When? August 30th September 2st Where? Randall’s Island, NY Who? Benny Benassi, David Guetta, Clockwork, and more!

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staying We asked and you answered: What do you have to have in your carryon bag? #SWEETTRAVELS

social

Curated by Alex Laughlin / @alexlaughs

@TheRobbStory:

@BlairRitchey: My carry on musthaves are Lango Messenger, iPad filled with tons of reading material, and YSL le touche eclat

Speed Trains and Aeroplanes

By Robb Hohmann

@HannahBrencher: Good question! I Travel with my iPad, KIND bars, my bible, and a good pair of @HunterBoots. It’s about comfort!

@MrsCMansfield: My must have travel aide (I use for work travel & vacas) is the AroundMe app. Use it constantly!

@LizMcAvoy: This is so funny because I JUST posted my #NewOrleans (carry-on) packing list bit.ly/13YjPbM

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your fave instagram pics: NO.23

Celebrating the late great Lilly Pulitzer... #LillyLemonLove

Thanks for sharing!

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June 27 sunnies day 28

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National Wear Lilly Pulitzer Day & Summer Solstice

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EMBRACE YOUR GEEKINESS DAY

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national parents day

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE DAY

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Gisele’s Birthday

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Luke Bryan’s Birthday

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INDEPENDENCE DAY! NO.26

SEPTEMBER 1

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LABOR day

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Amy Adams’ Brithday

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National S’mores Day

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kiss & makeup day 9

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National Lighthouse Day

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Mila Kunis’ Brithday

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president obama’s birthday & National friendship day

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#sweetlife

Style d by JILLIA Phot N BR ogr a E p hy b y TYL MER & K ATE ER B OGA ALL TA

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J ILLIAN

No doubt neons are still a summer staple and they look great paired back to bold gold jewelry. For an on trend refresher, try a sherbet hue.

Dress Madewell / Shoes Dolce Vita / Neckace Sweet & Spark / cuff Sweet & Spark / sparkle Bangle Sweet & Spark / Watch Michael Kors

KATE

Neon + florals = a summer dream. Pair bold florals with a clean tee for a look that will really pop. Add wedges for those warm weather BBQs or pair it with your favorite tennis shoes for a sporty casual look.

shirt J.Crew Skirt Urban Outfitters (similar) Pumps Boutique 9 Neckace Sweet & Spark Ladybug Bracelet Sweet & Spark Pyramid Bangle Sweet & Spark

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J ILLIAN

A mod spin on preppy, not only is print mixing still in but refreshing in shades of indigo. On a hot summer day, with your hair pulled up, statement earrings add instant glam to any casual look.

KATE

For an easy, classic look pair a simple white top with denim cutoffs.

For an even sweeter look, add a long statement necklace and an ice cream cone of your choice.

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J ILLIAN

Floral prints of all scales are in, and punchy colors paired with crisp whites scream beach days.

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KATE

Retro meets chic, these are not your mom’s high waisted jeans.

Tuck in a simple bright tank and add chunky jewelry for a look fit for one of Charlie’s long lost angels.

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opposite pg Kate (left) jeans American Apparel Top J.Crew Factory Wedges DC by Dolce Vita Zigzag Cuff Sweet & Spark Black Chain Necklace (worn as bracelet) Sweet & Spark sunnies Rayban Skinney bangle, earrings & necklace Sweet & Spark Classics Collection

opposite pg Jillian (right) jeans J.Crew Top Zara shoes (similar) Dolce Vita sunnies Rayban necklace Sweet & Spark pyramid bangle Sweet & Spark bold gold bangle Sweet & Spark Black Bangle Sweet & Spark Brown Bangle Sweet & Spark Cream Bangle Sweet & Spark Earrings Sweet & Spark NO.39

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ABOUT US Jil l ia n B r e m e r www.sweetandspark.com @sweetnspark

Sweet & Spark is for the girl who is obsessed with fashion and appreciates vintage but doesn't have the time to sift through overwhelming sites like Etsy and eBay or spend her weekends out at flea markets.

Originally started by a former apparel buyer as a lifestyle blog in April 2011, she re-launched as a vintage jewelry brand in November 2012 promoting her dad as head buyer. He’s doing the dirty work scouring yard sales, flea markets and antique shops along the East coast while she’s out West, curating assortments of quality & affordable costume jewelry from the 40s-90s. At the core they're about classics but seasonally they feature collections mimicking current trends.

K ate Og ata www.thefancypantsrepor t.com @hey_im_kate

City life on a suburban budget, The Fancy Pants Report is a San Francisco based style blog where classic edge meets wallet friendly chic. Kate Ogata, a self proclaimed shopaholic provides her readers with insight into wardrobe staples worth splurging on, while keeping up-to-date by incorporating current trends.

The Fancy Pants Report keeps it simple, reminding women that they don't need to throw on the kitchen sink to look stylish. Remember ladies, you wear the pants they don't wear you.

Jillian (left): tank Madewell / shorts Zara / belt J.Crew / Shoes (similar) Dolce Vita / sunnies Elizabeth james / earrings Sweet & Spark / navy cuff Sweet & Spark / white bangle Sweet & Spark / skinny bracelet Sweet & Spark kate (right): top J.Crew Factory / shorts (similar) Gap / wedges (similar) Nine West / bag (similar) Zara / Tassel Necklace Sweet & Spark / flat link bracelet Sweet & Spark / black bangle Sweet & Spark / EARRINGS Sweet & Spark NO.43

Apparel Assessories Home Decor Jewelry Tech cases Greek life & Sorority Gifts & more

summer wedding

LOOK BOOK Featuring dresses by Kirribilla & bags by Blair Ritchey

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bridal shower

LO O K S

dress quinn bag mini lulu foldover jewels love always couture

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(right) dress sydney bag Lulu earrings sweet & spark

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bachelorette party

LO O K S

dress Blythe bag Lulu Foldover earrings nordstrom ring Blee inara

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ladies’ night out NO.52

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dress Arabella bag mini lulu earrings j.crew (similar)

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dress Camila bag mini lulu earrings j.crew (similar) necklace forever21 (similar)

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rehearsal dinner

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dress ali bag mini lulu foldover necklace j.crew watch michele bracelete david yurman

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wedding LO O K S

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dress Dahlia bag mini lulu foldover bracelete j.crew

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dress WHITNEY bag lulu bracelet j.crew (similar)

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wear-to-it-all

DRESS

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dresses by KIRRIBILLA @Kirribilla

bags by BLAIR RITCHEY @BlairRitchey

Styled by BRITTNEY ANN CARDILLO @BANNC Photography by KAITLYN KIRBY @KEKIRBY hair by DRYBAR GEORGETOWN @THEDRYBAR Makeup By VICTORIA BUDOSH @VICTORIAPAINTS Models HEATHER BIEN @HMBIEN & MICHAEL MCCOLLUM @MLM1888

dress kat bag mini lulu foldover cuff bee charming ring blee inara

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ardstu 3

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1 Buttercup 2 Hold Me 3 Full Pint 4 Lemon Drop 5 The 3-Day Bender 6 Smooth Operator

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Available at thedrybar.com/shop

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Crafted for the Perfect Blowout 1 shampoo / 2 conditioner / 3 Heat Protector & Frizz Fighter 4 smoothing cream / 5 Volumizing Mousse / 6 Treatment Oil 7 Dry shampoo / 8 flexible hold hairspray / 9 shine Pomade

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Poor

Little it Girl

By Zoë Björnson @kzoeb Photography & styling by Victoria Budosh @VICTORIAPAINTS

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There’s something about Poor Little It Girl ’s innocent, yet captivating style that had us at first click. The D.C.-based it girl herself, Catherine Anderson, hails from the Sunshine State, but has been everywhere from Atlanta to New York. The sweet, hometown girl proves that fashion can be affordable – you don’t hear that everyday - and that you don’t have to break the bank when trying on the latest trend.

college. That’s all I ever really wanted was to get out of the small town and see/experience new places.

How did those places influence your style?

Living in Middleburg, FL, the style wasn’t that diverse. Everyone shopped at the same mall, wore the same clothes and brands, nothing too crazy. I specifically remember taking a trip in the 7th grade to Los Angeles to visit Where did you grow up and where my aunt and uncle and I saw a girl wearing capri pants for the first time. I remember beghave you lived? ging my mom to take me to The Limited 2 I was raised just outside Jacksonville, Florida in a town called Middleburg. I lived so I could buy a pair and I will still vouch to this day I was the first girl in my town to there for most of my childhood and, when it was time to go to college, I headed 2 and rock this trend. I remember walking into my science class feeling so cool! In college it a half hours west to Tallahassee to go to was still a lot of the same styles, and that Florida State University for school. Since graduating in 2007, I have lived in Manhattan, involved a lot of cut off denim skirts and sorority T-shirts. It wasn’t until I moved Atlanta and now Washington, DC. to Manhattan when I was 21 that I really started to explore my own personal style. tell us about your childhood.

I had a fairly typical childhood. My mom Who is your style icon and why? and dad moved my two sisters and myself I can’t ever remember a time when my down from Virginia to Florida when I was nine years old and they’ve lived in the same mother didn’t dress well. I’ve always admired that no matter the occasion, whether it be house since. I was your definition of an work, church, a day of shopping, she always average kid, I was never really popular in is put together. To this day, I am always school, but wasn’t a geek either. I worked overdressed for just about everything thanks hard in school and had a part time job in to my mother. high school to make money to go away to

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Chambray Shirt: J.Crew Striped Tee (similar): J.Crew Bandana (similar): Urban outfitters Shoes: Sperry Top-Siders for J.Crew Shorts: Paige Denim (cut into shorts)

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How is the fashion in your area different from everywhere else?

What’s the fashion scene like?

I just moved to Washington, DC a couple months ago and the style is very different from where I have previously lived. Everyone here wears the standard business suit or dress and a cardigan combo no matter if

they’re at the office or out to dinner. It’s strange to see, especially since I’ve never worked in a very “corporate” atmosphere, but I guess that’s what happens when you move to a political town like DC. What’s your must have handbag and shoe?

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always overdressed

to this day, I am

for just about everything

thanks to my

mother.

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My favorite bag right now is my Zara Shopper Tote I got last summer. It’s a pale pink/peachy color and holds everything from my laptop to my magazines and anything else I decide to load in it. My whole life is in that bag and I dread the day I have to replace it. As for shoes, carrying such a large and heavy bag means I wear a lot of flats, and I just purchased a pair of sandals from Madewell that I’m wearing like crazy at the moment. They’re red and have a Mary-Jane look to them, super retro!

Favorite food and why? Do you cook or are you a dine out kind of person?

I love to cook! As a vegetarian, I love to explore new options and recipes and have been working my way through Martha Stewarts new “Meatless” cookbook. My favorite food, even since I was a little kid, has always been a really good salad with lots of veggies and croutons and a little oil and vinegar. Yum! Where did you go to school and what did you study? How did that help you with what you’re doing now?

I went to Florida State University and studied Fashion Merchandising and Business.

Obviously I learned a lot about fashion and textiles in that major and Even though

I never ended up becoming a buyer or a merchandiser, and went into fashion editorial for magazines instead, I am glad that I have that knowledge on hand.

How did style/fashion come into play during your education?

When you’re a fashion major, every girl is trying to out-style the next. I never really fell for that. My school style was very laid back and typical (Abercrombie jeans and Gap t’s, please!) but I always wanted to explore new brands and fashions that weren’t at the local mall. That’s why I had my heart set on moving to New York City once I graduated.

Tell us about your blog? How did you get started? Who do you draw inspiration from? What’s the message/purpose of your blog?

I’ve always had a passion for affordable shopping. Working at CosmoGIRL, J-14 and People StyleWatch in New York, I learned a lot about the “mall brands” and how to find quality pieces that don’t cost a lot of money. I finally started Poor Little It Girl™ in July 2010 as an outlet to express my personal views on affordable style.

What other ventures are you involved in? Maybe designing? PR? This past year I’ve taken on a lot of freelance projects working with different stores,

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Dress: Lauren Moffatt c/o Morgan Kylee Hat: c/o Greenpacha Sandals: Madewell Bag: Madewell Belt: Madewell Lips: Maybelline “On Fire Red” NO.79

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brands and websites to help with their social media and blogging. It’s a really great learning experience to not represent yourself on these outlets but to collaborate with another brand and be their voice. Also, this past January, I launched a blogger networking community with Jessica Camerata of My Style Vita called Southern Blog Society. We cater to the 10 southeastern states and showcase bloggers and provide contacts for great blogger resources in their areas. Less than 6 months in and we already have about 300 members…it’s fantastic!

When you’re a fashion major, every girl is trying to

out-style the next.

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How do you juggle a blog, working ...etc?

Right now I’m juggling blog and job hunting. I just moved from Atlanta to DC a few months ago to be with my boyfriend - oh the crazy things we do for love! –and I have been searching for work a lot. It’s exhausting to apply for jobs all day but I love all this extra time I have to work on Poor Little It Girl. I’ve been experimenting with new projects and learning more on the backend of ways to become a better blogger, so that’s a positive!

Have you ever thought of having your own clothing line?

I’ve never really wanted to go that route with my career. I just don’t think I have the creative vision for that. People who design clothes to do it so well, I’d rather just sit back and appreciate (and buy) their hard work!

What’s your day job?

Right now I am working on Poor Little It Girl and Southern Blog Society full time.

Whoever said blogging wasn’t full time work doesn’t know what it’s like to run two online websites! Between postings, emails, collaborations, taking pictures, networking and social media, I’m on 24/7!

How do you like living in DC vs. Atlanta?

I moved to Atlanta after Manhattan and I hated how slow and spread out it was.

Everyone is always in their cars and you can never really enjoy your surroundings. I love DC because it combines the city life of NYC - I can finally walk to get a cup of coffee again which I love! – with the feeling of being in small town too.

What makes you different from all the other style bloggers on the web?

What I pride myself on with Poor Little It Girl is my point of view. It’s in my name I’m “poor” and these are the clothes I can actually afford because they are all under $100. Readers come to my site and they know exactly what they are going to get the second they read the banner. My blog isn’t just about personal style but about shopping smart. You don’t find that on that many blogs nowadays.

What’s your best advice to young entrepreneurs like yourself?

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blog isn’t just about My

personal style

but about

shopping smart.

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Dress: c/o BCBGeneration Necklace (similar): c/o Jeweliq Clutch: c/o Windsor Store Lips: Maybelline “Fuchsia Fever” NO.88

There are lots of things I’ve learned since starting my blog almost three years ago. I never envisioned myself as the entrepreneurial type, but now that I’m here it’s fantastic to build on my strengths and learn from my weaknesses. For those starting their own blog or business venture, the best advice I can give it so ask for advice. I, in no way, made Poor Little It Girl on my own. From friends to lawyers to industry professionals, I am always wanting and willing to learn more and, most importantly, ask for help when I need it. If someone can do it better for you then let them. Don’t think you have to do everything yourself. You can hire smart people to help you.

When life gives you lemons....

Life has given me one hell of a bag of lemons from bad breakups to job losses to everything else you can think of. All you can do is keep on keeping on. Learn from the past and take that knowledge with you as you go forward.

Follow Cathy @poorlittleitgirl // www.poorlittleitgirl.com NO.89

y e h i b w rom

c r e b a

s e t a h

u o y

By Ali Vitali | @alivitali

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#lemonaid

Image is everything.

Which sucks. I, too, was brought up on the old adage “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” But despite efforts to the contrary, it’s hard not to. Who has time to read every book, sparkly or torn cover aside? We’re left with the reality that elevator pitches aren’t just for Mad Men anymore. We sell ourselves to potential co-workers, friends, and acquaintances every day and much of it stems from the way we look.

But just because image makes the impression, doesn’t mean that a good impression can only be made by one kind of image. The word “beauty” encompasses a lot of things. There is no one beauty.

Which brings me to my semi-recent vendetta against Abercrombie & Fitch.

Many of us remember the brand’s embroidered script A&F as the unofficial seal of the middle school royals who haunt our adolescent memories; the jeans we strove to wiggle into, and the skirts we all just had to have in order to be “cool.” So I sucked in, donned The Seal, and thought I looked cool. Pictures show otherwise, and the braces probably didn’t help, but all that’s not so bad. What is so bad is that Abercrombie is the first brand I can remember that bred conformity and told us beauty could only be one thing. Beauty was stick thin, mostly blonde, with a just-so sprinkling of freckles, and a hot white guy who lost his shirt somewhere along the way on her arm. There was nothing else.

And there still isn’t. The brand doesn’t even feature sizes XL and XXL on their size chart. The notion of “plus-size” is non-existent in Abercrombie world. And their CEO is fine with that. In 2006, A&F CEO Mike Jeffries

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told Salon that sex appeal was the foundation of Abercrombie’s business model. “That’s why we hire good-looking people in our stores,” he said, “Because good-looking people attract other good-looking people, and we want to market to cool, good-looking people. We don’t market to anyone other than that.” But wait - there’s more. Salon’s Benoit Denizet-Lewis wrote: “As far as Jeffries is concerned, America’s unattractive, overweight or otherwise undesirable teens can shop elsewhere. ‘In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids,’ [Jeffries] says. ‘Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive allAmerican kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don’t belong [in our clothes], and they can’t belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely. Those companies that are in trouble are trying to target everybody: young, old, fat, skinny. But then you become totally vanilla. You don’t alienate anybody, but you don’t excite anybody, either.”

In the years since that interview, Jeffries has yet to realize that there’s more to life than being really ridiculously good-looking. A May 2013 article in Business Insider re-

kindled the case against Abercrombie, reminding readers that “Abercrombie is sticking to its guns of conventional beauty, even as that standard becomes outdated.”

Contrast that mindset with Dove’s Campaign for Real Beauty. Since 2004, Dove has strived to display what’s “real.” Real women with real curves and redefining what women see as real beauty. In the preliminary stages of their campaign, Dove surveyed women to figure out how they defined beauty. Many women felt what you’d expect: that society’s working definition of beauty was “limiting and unattainable.” But the stats were what spoke the loudest. Only two percent of women around the world described themselves as beautiful in Dove’s survey. Two percent. More Americans approve of Congress than women feel beautiful across the world.

That’s not even the most troubling part.

After years of widely publicized campaigns, Dove took another survey in 2011. Their largest global study to that point, The Real Truth About Beauty: Revisited revealed that not much had changed. Up two percent from seven years earlier, only four percent of women globally responded that they considered themselves beautiful. The study also

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showed how early these self-doubts take root. Dove studied over 1,200 girls ages 10 to 17 about how they viewed themselves, their bodies, and their beauty. 72 percent of those girls said they “felt tremendous pressure to be beautiful” but only 11 percent of them felt comfortable using the b-word to describe their looks.

This isn’t a case of wanting what you can’t have. All women - and men! - are capable of attaining beauty. But when magazine cover after television advertisement after pop song depicts only one type, one look to aspire to, it’s hard to know that’s not the only mold out there. Especially when you’re a thirteen- year- old kid, just starting middle school, dealing with acne, new hair in weird places, and all of the insecurities that come with being a thirteen- year- old kid starting middle school. Pair that with the fact that kids make fun of things that are different or outside what they’ve come to know as the norm, and we’re almost set up for low self-esteem. By high school, it’s part of our new normal. We’ve been programmed early to believe that anything larger than a size two is a size too big.

Enough is enough.

“More Americans approve of Congress than women feel beautiful across the world.”

If it’s one thing millennials are good at, it’s breaking molds and conventions previously held as “the norm” by those who came before us. Just as we’re now tasked with remedying the negative effects of climate change and navigating a hyper-partisan governing body, we are also tasked with setting our own definitions for words that have been previously defined but whose meanings are now antiquated. Words like “marriage,” words like “gender” and words like “beauty.” Like most things the older generations have saddled us with, these are not easy feats. But one Dove campaign can’t take on Abercrombie alone. It takes a group of nerds to stand up to the popular kids.

But I’ve always had faith in the strength of nerds in large numbers.

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Rick Ross’s Rape Problem is Our Problem Too

By Clare Austen-Smith // @clareausten Here’s the thing about Facebook: sometimes things dance across your news feed that can really take you by surprise. So it was when I came across the status of a former college professor. This during the time when rapper Rick Ross was getting slammed in the press for talking about drugging and raping a women in a new track, “U.O.E.N.O.”* I’ll let his lyrics speak for themselves: “Put molly in her champagne, she ain’t even know it / I took her home and I enjoyed that, she ain’t even know it.” I expected my professor to slam Ross for his sexist lyrics and rape endorsing lyrics. Instead, I got this:

April 2 at 2:19pm

To my activist and progressive comrades, I ask of you, no I plead with you to come up with clear and concise parameters for art and ethics that inform your moralist rejections of some art forms (violent hip hop tracks) juxtaposed to your passive acceptance of other art forms that offer equally repugnant expressions like Shakespearean plays, Spenser’s “The Faerie Queene,” horror flicks, novels, detestable paintings, and a couple of especially evil biblical Psalms. Where is the activist outrage and sanctimony against the incredible displays of violence in Shakespearean plays? Why is violence acceptable in critically-acclaimed television shows like “The Wire” but regretable and subject to activist sanctimony in another art form called hip hop? Why hold one art form to higher moral standards than others? I just don’t get it.

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What the what? This wasn’t a stereotypically ignorant politi-post by a college frat bro who I sat next to in Sociology 101, nor was it a random friend of a friend from camp that one summer; it was coming from a man who I used to consider an intellectual idol, someone who was instrumental in my feminist education, someone who was now displaying ignorance of his own male privilege and whining about “moralists” getting angry at criticisms of an explicit rape reference in a top 40 rap artist. What happened?

The argument that Shakespeare or horror movies are not being held to the same standard of criticism as hip hop is irrational. Young men, to my knowledge, are not going out and murdering Scottish kings in their sleep à la MacBeth -- but they are date raping and drugging women in Steubenville or Torrington, Connecticut.

And they claim that they don’t even know what they are doing is rape. One the of the Steubenville witnesses testified that “I didn’t know exactly what rape was. I always pictured it as forcing someone” and that contributed to why he did not intervene when he saw what his friends were doing to the victim. Clearly, society is not teaching something - rather, several things - be it respect of women, “no” meaning “no,” or that a passed out, incoherent drunk girl is incapable of consent. Passing out after

one-beer-too-many does not, in fact, imply “yes.” Go figure.

Let me state here that I’m not painting music as directly responsible for what happening in Steubenville, or in places like it. That blame lies solely on the shoulder of the perpetrators. But songs like “U.O.E.N.O.” are a symptom of a culture that does not value women, and its influence needs to be understood and talked about. Saying that hip hop should not be critiqued for the misogynist ideas and words because it is “art,” is a smoke screen argument that derails all further analysis and is an attempt to shut down any sort of critical conversation. To be fair, all music is a function of “art” - stretching the term “art” sometimes, sure, but art no less.

But art it isn’t a free pass from criticism.

We can’t just say “art is meant to provoke” and walk away - be it rap, country music, or pop. These messages have real life consequences.

Just recently, in March of 2012, a lawyer introduced as evidence the fact that a women asked for the 2 Chainz song “No Lie” to be played while being driven home by two men as implicit consent – the lyrics quoted were “take your girl kidnap her, feed her to my mattress” before they raped her. By this line of reasoning, anyone who presses play on this Rick Ross song

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is signing up for what he endorses. So remember ladies, the next time you’re in the club, at a bar, listening to Pandora at work and this song comes on - it’s like you’re saying “yes.”

The sort of misogyny and ignorance espoused by Rick Ross is not unique to hip-hop, although perhaps hip-hop has been the most vilified for this behavior.

Top 40 tunes over the years are rife with examples. The Backstreet Boys - yes, The Backstreet Boys - “Boys will be be boys” telling screaming tweens that “you push me away...but I just can’t help it” in 1996.

Or the 1970s classic rock group Chicago saying “And I won’t take no if that’s your answer / at least that’s my philosophy” in their song “Come In From the Night.”

Or the indie hearthrobs of Death Cab For Cutie who croon “You reject my advances and desperate pleas / I won’t let you let me down so easily” on the seemingly innocuous hit “I Will Possess Your Heart.”

Men are taught that “no” isn’t an answer it’s just a reason to keep pressing.

Even in show tunes - and don’t get me wrong, I love me some Grease - but when the T-Birds ask Danny to “tell me more, tell me more” they ask “did she put up a fight?” We may not have understood that reference when we watched this movie in middle school, but it’s clear that Sonny’s

implying an expectation of a forced sexual encounter. And it’s a casual enough expectation to blurt it out with the boys on the bleachers. Sexual violence against women and automatic forgiveness for the perpetrator is encoded in multiple genres of music.

“Clearly society is not teaching something - rather, several things be it respect of women, “no” meaning “no,” or that a passed out, incoherent drunk girl is incapable of consent.”

But the biggest source of my disappointment wasn’t in my professor’s marginalizing narrative, or the fact that he thinks making a work of art is carte blanche to ignore real life consequences.

No, my problem stemmed from the simple fact that I am a rape survivor. And in that way, I couldn’t help but take Ross’ lyrics personally. What Rick Ross is talking about is what happened to me when I was 16 years old. It’s not something I can ignore, or excuse in the name of “artistic expression.” More than the physical pain that was caused, I was crippled by a lack of knowledge in the aftermath of my experience. I had no idea what date rape was! I know I’m not the only one. We need more education about rape, rather than more quips by major recording artists celebrating it.

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Despite not having the educational tools to untangle my experience, I knew that what had happened to me was deeply painful, and I saw it as embarrassing and something to be ashamed of. What I had been taught about rapists was that they were strangers in a dark alleyway with a gun or a knife, lying in wait, and my date rape experience didn’t fit that framework.

He was my friend’s older brother - how could he rape anyone? I didn’t tell my friends what had happened until years later, but even then described the incident as “I didn’t really want to have sex with him, but we did anyway.” It took me until my junior year of college to realize that I had been raped. It took me another year to first speak the words “I was raped.” Those three syllables still give me chills. I had no idea until many years after my own rape that most rapists are actually acquaintances, or friends of their victims. I would have no idea until much later that many women in my life had been raped, too. If I had known about date rape, maybe the man who raped me would have payed the price for

his crime. Maybe I could have stopped it from happening to another girl - because I know I wasn’t the only one. Maybe I would have been able to start the healing process when I was 16 instead of 21.

But maybe doesn’t matter and there comes a point where playing devil’s advocate is unnecessary. We are not dealing in the abstract here, but in the violently, desperately, painfully real. A reality that, 6 years later, at the age of 22, keeps me up at night. A reality where our society seeks to protect teen football stars when they rape an incoherent girl in Steubenville. A reality where a rapper can sing about date rape and go platinum. A reality that exemplifies why our society needs to reevaluate how we talk about and perceive rape culture. This keeps me up at night while my professor seems to be sleeping soundly. But I think he, we, and our society need to start waking the hell up.

*”U.O.E.N.O” is onomatopoeia for “you don’t even know.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, there are resources out there for you: Rainn (nation’s largest anti-sexual assault organization) National Sexual Assault Online Hotline (ohl.rainn.org/online) National Sexual Assault Hotline 1.800.656.HOPE (1-800-656-4673)

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Need a job? get in line.

Tips & tricks for achieving intern stardom in a not-so-great job market I’ll never forget the first day of my first real internship. It was at a big corporation in a fancy building in downtown Chicago, and I was a law student with an expensive briefcase and no clue what I was doing. At a meeting on Day One, my boss, a very kind-hearted older man, asked me to draft a document I had never even heard of. I returned to my desk and did what every person of my generation has probably done before: I Googled it. I found examples and instructions on how to write the document and printed everything I found. Only problem: I printed it to the printer in my boss’s office. Can you say #awkward? I managed to survive that first day (and sneak the documents off the boss man’s printer) and have still maintained my relationships at that corporation even today. And I guess I got a firsthand lesson in stealth, too.

By Mae Badiyan / Maebadiyan.com / @maebad illustrated by meghan lynch / @m3gger NO.99

S

ummer internships help us learn, develop new skills, and establish

connections. Think of your internship as a free pass in the sense that you get to observe and actively work without many of the burdens associated with a full-time position. (Although many internships now do come with those responsibilities!) But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take it seriously. You are being closely watched, especially since some internships lead to offers of full-time employment. This is also your time to shine. So use the opportunity to gain experience and show them what you’ve got!

Internships are also great for those who want to switch careers but want to get a taste before fully committing to the change.

It may be difficult to transition out of a fulltime job into an internship but remember, it’s valuable experience and only temporary.

With all of the benefits of an internship, landing one isn’t always easy. I’ve put together some tips on getting a summer internship, but these helpful hints can also be applied to getting your first job for all you recent additions to the Real World.

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Never Underestimate the Power of The Good Ol’ Days Before LinkedIn and meeting online, people actually put on a suit and attended job fairs and networking events. Foregoing this mode of networking is one of the biggest sins our generation is committing. I love social media, and it certainly has its place, but if you’re job hunting, don’t discount face-to-face interactions. Join young professional organizations and attend all of their events. Once you’ve identified the industry you want experience in, find its continuing education workshops. This is a great way to learn what you’re getting yourself into and connect with those directly working in that field.

As The Boys Scout Say, Be Prepared This is especially important when you’re in those face-to-face, real time meeting situations but also even when you’re at the local coffee shop. Remember that when you’re on the job hunt, you are a walking billboard and every interaction has the potential to lead to a connection.

Think of yourself as being in the sales business: You’re selling yourself.

Dress nicely. Always carry professionally-printed business cards -and a fancy pen.

Your digital presence is your brand.

Speaking of sales, whether you like it or not, you are a brand. And when you’re on the hunt for a job, employers want to know everything about your brand. I know we’ve all heard this a million times before, but be cautious about what you post in all digital spaces. Your Facebook is YOU, your Twitter is YOU, your blog is YOU. Just remember not to post anything you wouldn’t say in person to an employer. Try to be coherent in all aspects of your life. You want the person that you present in the interview to be the same person that you portray online. This means you, former sorority girls with hilarious pictures from that 80s mixer turned food fight in college. Companies know how to Google a potential intern -- and they will do it! This is not to NO.101

say you shouldn’t use social media during

Please, thank you, and following-up.

your job hunt. In fact, it’s a fabulous re-

Make your parents proud and always

source. Start following companies you’d

remember to say thank you. Always. And

like to work for, then tweet at them! It’s

mind your manners. And smile! One of

not going to do you any good to be a pas-

my major responsibilities as the director

sive follower. And remember, it’s a small

of attorney development at a law firm in

world! You never know who might be

Chicago was hiring new attorneys to work

following your friend. This can be a good

on short-term consulting projects. You

and bad thing, but as long as you’re con-

wouldn’t believe the interviews I had to sit

sistent in branding yourself positively, you

through, both the super sad and the pleas-

should be fine.

antly perfect. I was always surprised at the

The Most Important Part of the Interview Always, always, always have questions prepared to ask the interviewer. You might not get a chance to ask them, but in case you do, be ready. Research the company and know it better than you know the latest issue of Vogue. Be comfortable and well-versed and ready to talk with ease about them, their mission, new projects, whatever it may be. Although the organization is technically checking you out, you also have the right to get to know more about them and the culture. The interview might not be completely equal, but speak up and be confident. A caveat: Don’t ask about salary. This should conversation should be saved for negotiations, after you’ve been offered the job.

vast number of prospective employees who very rarely said please and thank you. But I certainly remember the names of those who did! Whether you’re leaving an interview or emailing a resume submission, you want to stand out in a good way and be remembered for your grace.

Now, there’s some controversy about whether job-hunters should follow up with a phone call. I think it shows a go-getter attitude and that you’re responsible. I suggest always calling. Don’t be annoying or pestering but follow up with a timely call to confirm your submission went through or to personally thank your interviewer.

Others advocate a hand-written note - all you Elle Woods wanna-bes, here’s your chance for those pink and scented response cards - while in other cases a simple e-mail

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is more than sufficient. Go with your gut,

ible person in their world -- whatever it

but definitely say thank you in some way.

may be. A quick note is fine, such as: “Hi Adam! This came across my email inbox

It’s not networking, it’s building a friendship

yesterday and it made me think of you.

The number one tip I received during

Look at paragraph 4 especially. That line

my own job hunt was in regard to staying in

about XYZ sounds like exactly what you’re

touch with your network. Meeting someone,

researching. Hope this helps!”

either in-person or digitally, is only half the battle. The more important part is

Using this method also makes it manage-

establishing a true connection. Real net-

able for you. You only need to water a few

working is just like building a friendship.

seeds a week and pretty soon you’ll have

Let’s say you’ve collected a stack of busi-

flowers blooming all over the place! These

ness cards, then once a week, reach out

contacts can also turn into mentors down

to just one or two of the contacts in your

the road as the relationship is established,

network. The trick is to reach out to them

so choose your network wisely.

about something useful to THEM, not you. Don’t make this all about you. Send

Some kind of summation is needed here,

them an interesting article you found that

I think. Just a few lines - nothing crazy. But

you thought they might also enjoy, tweet

definitely something pithy and maybe

at them, email them, whatever is appropriate. anecdotal.

Be careful not to only get in touch when you need something. Contacting them

Although some may say this is a tough

every so often ensures you’re at the top

employment market, finding an internship

of their mind and when you do reach out

or even job that is a good fit for you is defi-

about a job, it’s not out of the blue and not

nitely possible. Use all your resources and

the only time they see your name across

wit, be savvy, talk to everyone! and do your

their screen.

homework. Good luck!

Another important reason to do this is because it helps to establish you as a cred-

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HOW To ruN with the bulls

& hide from

the bears

BY CARLETON ENGLISH www.carletonenglish.com @carletonenglish

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As I write this on May 15th, the S&P 500 has been on a tear. It is up 15% year to date and 141% since now-deceased CNBC legend Mark Haines called the market bottom in March 2009. This week Facebook is celebrating one year since its controversial IPO. Despite, new market highs (the Dow Jones Industrial Average crossing 15,000 anyone?), Facebook has yet to reach its opening price of $38 a share. Meanwhile on the other side of the tech sector, search giant Google has been hovering comfortably around $900 a share. If you think that’s high for a stock price, take a look at Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway whose A class shares sell for $168,000 apiece due to never paying a dividend or splitting its stock. The holding company has a market capitalization of $275.6B, yet is only the ninth largest public holding company in the world.

MAKE SENSE TO YOU ? MAYBE NOT. The investing world is unfortunately full of intimidating jargon that prevents many people,especially women,from participating.

While becoming a market whiz is a full time career, there are measures you can take to become market savvy and comfortable speaking financialese -- and maybe even become an investor yourself. But first, time to arm you with some Wall Street common knowledge.

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Why Invest?

Where to Invest?

Investing is a way of saving money in

I will state my personal bias: I like Vanguard.

a stock, bond, or mutual fund with the

I grew up in the Philadelphia suburbs

goal of gaining a return that outpaces

where Vanguard is headquartered. When

inflation through dividend payments

I graduated from college and had a little

and capital appreciation. What I will

bit of money stowed away in an account, a

be discussing is long term investing.

live person stayed on the phone with me to

While day-trading and speculation are

answer all of my novice questions. Vanguard

sexier topics, they are best left to the

is also known for their low fees. But personal

pros. And let’s be honest, even some of

bias aside, you can also look at E*Trade (the

the pros have no business riding in that

one with the talking baby), Scottrade, or

rodeo.

possibly your own bank. When you choose

When to Invest?

where to park your money, you’re looking for an institution that has low management and transaction fees, a variety of holdings,

Whenever you can! Though before

and, most important, a support staff or

entering the market you should have 3-6

investor’s education platform that answers

months of cash comfortably saved and

all of your questions. This is your money

have any debt payments such as student

and you need to feel comfortable - even

loans and car payments under control.

ecstatic - about where you park it.

Money that is saved above this criteria can be used to open a brokerage account.

Now, for many of us the criteria I listed is

What to Invest In

a goal and not a reality. As you take care of

What is your risk tolerance? Conventional

your other financial goals, you can learn

wisdom says that younger people are able

how the market works by reading up on

to invest in riskier assets because we have

market news or trying virtual trading

a longer time horizon to absorb market

through Scottrade’s platform which

cycles. But, again, this is your money. I

gives you a fake account with $100,000,

can’t tell you what to do, but I will say that

while E*Trade provides several free

if you consider yourself risk-averse, look

instructional videos for new investors.

at bonds, index funds, or value companies.

Finance has been a boys’ club for too long! A little education goes a long way.

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Think Warren Buffett. If you fancy yourself more aggressive and have a longer investment time horizon, look into growth stocks (generally tech companies). Think Steven A. Cohen...but follow his example lightly! Many of the aforementioned brokerage companies have tools which can help you figure out risk tolerance. Just remember that these tools only provide guidelines and you still have to trust your gut.

FINANCE HAS BEEN A BOYS’ CLUB FOR TOO LONG! A LITTLE education goes A LONG WAY.

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Who to Invest In

Action Items

Again,I’m not here to give you stock tips

This piece is by no means all inclusive.

so this part is tricky to advise on. When

Building an investing vocabulary and

it comes to choosing your investments,

becoming an investor takes time and

take a page from Warren Buffett and

research. In future columns I will

stick with companies and industries

discuss the intricacies of the market

you know and understand. Are there

but in the meantime, feel free to reach

publicly

who

out to me directly on Twitter or email

consistently provide goods and services

for advice. To make sure you stay up

you enjoy using? What products do

on market news, consider signing up

you always find in the houses of your

for a daily email from the Wall Street

friends and families? If you enjoy

Journal (I promise, their emails aren’t

them, it is likely that other people do

spammy and you can get up to speed

too, which means their revenues are

on market news during your subway

probably strong. (There is more to the

commute!) Best wishes to you and your

market than this but we’re building a

financial health.

traded

companies

foundation). If you’re more risk averse, consider index mutual funds or stocks who see less fluctuation in their price but pay healthy dividends.

Best wishes to you and your financial health.

Carleton English is a Philadelphian working for a medical device start-up and recently launched Belus Capital Advisors, an investment advisory firm with noted market analyst, Brian Sozzi. She previously worked as a Client Associate for a Seattle-based wealth management firm serving high net worth clients and leading financial literacy seminars for teens and young adults. She maintains her passion for finance by serving as Treasurer-Elect for the Junior League of Philadelphia and writing for Sweet Lemon Magazine, Levo League and other online publications. Carleton enjoys tango dancing, classic movies, and finding good food. Carleton is a graduate of the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University. @carletonenglish | www.carletonenglish.com

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F IND

your perfect party dress

at KIRRIBILLA.COM!

head-turning party dresses for all your social occasions!

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Blair Culwell

of Leap Design

Q+A

By Brittney Ann Cardillo // @BAnnC Some women can have it all. And trust me, Blair Culwell is one of those women. The girl has an eye for fashion, a passion for DIY and decor, and the organization to keep up with her own blogs and designs for some of the most sought after ladies of the fashion and lifestyle blogosphere. Blair’s company, Leap Marketing Design, creates blog and web designs for stylish bloggers - like Courtney Kerr and Krystal Schlegel, Devon Rachel, Bethany Diffy (just to name a few) and yes, even Sweet Lemon, her portfolio speaks for

Lonestar State to the Windy City for

itself.

love. All of which was probably made a little less daunting by her adorable

But it’s Culwell’s ability to take risks that

pup, Oliver, who frequently makes ap-

makes her stand out. She quit her job, started

pearances on her blog as Fox in

her own company, and moved from the

The Fox & She. NO.110

"I believe in clean lines, snail mail, letterpress, fresh flowers. I love gold, grey, pops of color & sparkle in small doses. I think that dining is always more fun while sitting on the patio and that life is better when you’re doing what you love.�

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Where did you grow up and where

and it continued to grow from there. As

do you live now? I grew up in Dallas,

for the blog, that’s been something I’ve

TX and lived there for several years after

been doing for years. Originally it was a

I graduated. I moved to Chicago, IL just

food blog that I had to write as part of an

over a year ago when my boyfriend got a

assignment for a class, since it has slowly

job up here.

evolved into what it is today — a blog that documents my inspiration, personal style,

Where did you go to school & what did you study? How did that help you with what you’re doing now?

I headed a long 45 minutes west to Fort

DIY projects and occasional opinions.

It’s become a great creative outlet and a fun way to connect with similar minded women.

Worth to go to school at TCU. I started my freshman year as a graphic design

How did you start your own business?

major and soon decided that it was too

I started by doing work for some friends

narrowly focused. At that point I loved

and their companies or small companies

design, but had doubts on whether or not

they worked for. At first I was just doing

I could make a career out of it. I ended up

basic web design. I started delving into

switching to advertising/public relations

the blog design scene when I realized how

and ended up taking every design course

lame my own food blog looked and soon

that program offered. I minored in studio

realized how much I loved it — the medium,

art, so a lot of my education was creatively

the people that were wanting to work

focused. My closest friends that stayed in

with me, the designing and yes, even the

the graphic design program ended up so

coding. I’ve turned into such a computer

burned out by the end and ended up in

geek, and I love it.

different creative fields upon graduating.

So all in all, I think it was sort of a blessing

Tell us about your business and what

in disguise that I quit the program.

you offer. Leap offers Wordpress design for the stylish blogger. I used to offer mul-

What first inspired you to start design-

tiple packages, but felt that I was spreading

ing and blogging? My first job included

myself thin and now only offer a few pack-

designing, it just wasn’t in a field that I was ages. I still offer one blogger package, but really passionate about — men’s retail. I I love Wordpress and that’s what I hope to didn’t have enough work to keep me busy

be doing exclusively in due time. We (me

all day, so I started offering to help my

and my intern Marianne) create unique,

friend’s who needed web and blog design

clean, modern, fun, colorful blog designs

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for mostly people in the fashion, lifestyle

Edits, Mary of M.A.S. Fashion, Marianne

and décor blogging arena, however when

of the Things We Didn’t Buy (she’s now

a new project presents itself I always like

my intern!), Krystal of Miss Business & of

to check it out and see if it’s a good fit.

course the lovely ladies at Sweet Lemon Magazine!

Who have been some of your favorite a tough question because there’s very few

What makes your company different from other design and marketing

that I haven’t enjoyed working with, but

firms? Leap is specialized and my cli-

bloggers to work with? This is really

some of my favorites were Jenni of I Spy DIY, ents are my kind of people! I like to think that we’d all be best friends if we lived in Christina of Oh So Glam, Amber of Venz NO.114

the same city. I’ve had the opportunity

to create a nest egg for myself. I consider

to work with hundreds of really talented

myself relatively frugal and always make

bloggers in this arena and I know the mar- sure I’m tucking a good chunk away each ket well. We also offer a relatively quick

month.

turnaround and affordable prices.

And last, but not least, give it time. I first What are your top tips for someone wanting to start their own business?

started doing freelance two and a half

Do it! Having my own business has allowed

get a project or two a month and it was not

me to really create the career that I wanted for myself and edit it as I continue to grow and change. It’s allowed me to travel when I want and move to new cities without a

years and business was slow. I’d maybe near enough to support myself. When I first moved to Chicago, I thought I was going to need a part-time job to cover my expenses, and now I’m so busy that

hitch.

I ended up hiring help. I couldn’t have

As for the more serious tips… get it setup correctly the first time — I’ve had to pay a lot in taxes for not filing my company

imagined how quickly it would grow, but it started very slow and then escalated quickly. So give it time to grow and to find your niche!

correctly the first year, and that was not fun. Find a mentor or group where you can meet and discuss ideas and questions. For

Outside of work, what are some of your favorite hobbies?

me, that’s been Business in the City run

I sort of consider myself a hobby junkie.

by Jess Lively.

I think I have more hobbies than anyone else I know. That lists includes, home

Only partner with people who are just as

improvement & DIY projects, decorating,

excited as you about your craft/business,

knitting, sewing and recently, painting. I

and willing to make the same sacrifices

sound like a domestic goddess or some-

that you are to make it work. Save your

thing. The itch to fix and make everything

pennies! Running your own business

comes from my dad, he’s a total handy-

means that your paycheck can fluctuate

man and has taught me a lot. I’ve done

each month and expenses like health

everything from painting a room to making

insurance, bills are not covered by your

my own furniture. It’s just more fun to

company. I don’t have a 401K either, so I

make it yourself! (ok, not always…)

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Design the perfect office, what’s in it?

keep it pretty simple. Maybe I’m lazy?! I

I love this question, because of said hob-

like mixing pieces of different styles to

bies, I think about this a lot. Ideally I want

make it my own. I love the personal style

a space where I can do all of the things

of Bradley Agather, Julia Engel and Blake

I love. First and most importantly is lots

Lively. Go to outfit for work and weekends

of natural light! I’d need a nice space

(because my wardrobe doesn’t change

for a desk and also a craft table at stand-

much from one to the other) is dark skinny

ing height, a cozy seating area and good

jeans, a cute top and flats or a skirt with a

storage. A corner for Oliver, a good set of

chambray shirt.

speakers and a fridge full of beer or Prosecco wouldn’t hurt either.

You are an amazing DIY-er (and one of SL’s too!), what inspired you to start creating your own pieces and what’s a simple one that anyone can make or one of your favorites. As I mentioned, the DIY gene came from dad who claims he can ‘fix anything but a broken heart’.

He’s creative too and whenever I had an idea, he helped me from start to finish and taught me just about all I know… along with a few YouTube videos and blog tutorials.

I’d find something that I’d love and know

How do you find time to keep up with your business, blogs and other projects and still have a personal life?

Good question! There are days when I’m swimming in work and unfinished projects and I wonder why I do it to myself, but the truth is, I love all of it. And I’ve set hours for myself and I stop working after 7pm and I don’t check my email at nights or weekends. Part of running your own business is getting to make the rules, and that’s one I really try to stick to.

that I couldn’t afford it so instead of saving

Tell us something no one (well almost no one else!) knows about you.

forever, I’d figure out a way to make it for

I still sleep with a teddy bear and I think

less.

mayonnaise is the most disgusting thing in the world.

Tell us about your personal style.

Favorite style icons/designers? What’s your go-to outfit for the workday

when life gives you lemons..

and on the weekend? I’d say I’m stylish,

make a lemonade and vodka

but always casual. I love heels, but if I’m

and find yourself a patio!

wearing them, I’m likely in jeans too. I don’t fuss over my hair and makeup and

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I N TO YOUR F I TTES T SUMMER YE T

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#zestyliving

Summer brings longer days, hotter nights and endless ways to enjoy the outdoors. No matter where you live or what is outside your doorstep, don’t let the rising temperatures prevent you from staying (or getting) in bikini shape this summer! Here are five tried and true tips I use to help you be your fittest self and making the most out of the summer season!

BY VICTORIA BUDOSH @victoriapaints

Whether you choose to hit the gym, hit the trail or paddle away in a kayak, don’t let the lazy days of summer keep you from staying bikini ready all season long. Find something you enjoy so it doesn’t seem like exercise! If you live by the water, renting stand up paddleboards with friends or taking a kayak tour is a great way to spend a few hours outside burning calories. If you are landlocked, hit the pavement and explore your city on foot or wheels! My favorite way to unwind after hours is to strap on my running shoes and go for a nice long run in the evening when it is not so hot outside. Another great option that happens to be my not so guilty pleasure is rollerblading. Take yourself back to the days of roller rink birthday parties and torch major calories, all while enjoying the outdoors!

Too hot to handle outside? No problem! There are lots of resources to help you get moving. GoRecess.com is a website that allows you to find local fitness classes right in your area. You can search by time, exercise type and you can even book your spot right through their site. No excuses!

running shoes / Asics NO.119

lime camisole / Old Navy rollerblades / Rollerblade shorts / Lululemon

“

“

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sports bra, tank, and pants / Lululemon

Nothing helps me work harder than when I feel confident in my appearance. This applies not only to my 9-5 outfits, but also to my workout ensembles! There are so many different options at every price point to turn heads in your workout gear.

Not sure where to start? Swap your t-shirt for a racerback tank with a built-in bra. Try mixing up your everyday running shorts with a chic running skirt. Don’t be afraid of color either! My favorite way to get workout ready is to choose contrasting colors and pops of print.

Another good way to make the most out of your fitness wardrobe is to invest in a quality supportive pieces depending on your body type. If you are busty, get fitted for a perfectly supportive bra.

I have a

little more “junk in the trunk” so I go for supportive compression capris pants. Then, mix those “investment” pieces with lower end items for a unique fitness fashion look! Lululemon is a great place to find key pieces, like a great pair of cropped running capris, supportive bra and chic flowy tanks. I mix these pieces with items from places like Forever21, Old Navy and Target.

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I have found that the best way to stick to my fitness routine and achieve my goals, especially in the summer, is to plan ahead. Save time by packing your lunch and gym bag the night before. Keep an eye on the weekly weather report to see which days would be great for outdoor activities.

MyFitnessPal is my go to tool for planning and sticking to my goals. It is not only a calorie counter, but it calculates your nutritional count for the day and activities. Since I pack my weekly meals the night before, I can plug in what I’m going to have the next day and see how everything adds up. It keeps me accountable!

Travel Fit! Going on vacation this summer? Don’t put your routine on vacation too! There are lots of ways you can stick to your goals.

No matter where you are, take advantage of your surroundings to fit in some exercise. When I go away, I always pack my running shoes and a resistance band, since its easily to pack in a suitcase. If I’m hitting the road, I put my yoga mat and kettlebell in the trunk of my car. When it comes to eating right on vacation, I bring healthy snacks with me.

Some of my

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navy tote / South Moon Under yoga mat / Target kettlebell / Walmart

are all lower calorie and high protein options that help keep me full and are easy to keep in warm weather.

This way, I

am not stuck eating unhealthy snacks that might be lying

Sip Lightly! Since summertime is the perfect time to kick back and relax with a cold drink, sipping cocktails can easily

around.

ruin all your hard work! Try swapping

Can’t get to a gym when you

without loosing flavor! Here are my tips!

travel?

high calorie ingredients for lighter options Download

the

Nike

Training Club App. NTC not only helped me transform my body and sculpt lean muscle,but I use the app to get in a workout anywhere! You can choose from a variety of different workouts, which are created by athletes and Nike trainers, which tell you what to do in real time, like your very own personal trainer.

There are also videos that go with each move to show you how to perform each exercise properly. And the best part is, you don’t need a lot of space or equipment! The more minutes you log, the more workouts you unlock!

sports bra and pants / Lululemon NO.124

1. Skip the lemon lime soda and substitute with club soda with fresh squeezed lemon and lime juice.

2. Cocktail calls for sugar?

Go for agave nectar, which has a smaller impact on blood sugar levels than regular sugar.

3. Experiment with flavors without any added calories by using fresh herbs like rosemary, mint, basil and sage.

4. Opt for clear alcohols, which are typically lower in calories than darker varieties.

5. Add bubbles! Sparkling white wine, prosecco or champagne has the lowest calories per serving averaging under 100 calories for 6 oz. Top with fresh berries or a splash of fruit juice.

Summertime is my favorite time of year and with these tips, I am able to stick to my goals and enjoy the season with family and friends!

Stay tuned to Sweet Lemon Magazine throughout the summer for fitness and health tips!

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Guide to a Summer Soiree...

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By Stefanie Dasher @lifeonthesqs www.lifeonthesquares.com Photography By Izzy Hudgins www.izzyhudgins.com Do you see photos of parties on Pinterest that you just wish you could be the hostess of‌ but it just seems like too much work?

Well, get ready to make your Pinterest dream a reality because you can host a truly beautiful & chic summer party with this guide to a Summer Soiree! Realize that you don’t have to break the bank or have a penthouse rooftop overlooking a NO.127

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cosmopolitan city to have a summer party like you see on Pinterest. With just slight effort, an easy menu, and beautiful bright flowers, you can host a summer soiree that will be a summer highlight for all your guests! Oh, and don’t forget to wear bold & bright colors, of course!

Decor

add slight pops of color. You really can’t go wrong when you have nice bright flowers and napkins. Tip: Let the flowers & napkins standout so that you don’t go overboard & over budget with other decorations that aren’t really necessary. Also, don’t buy floral arrangements, try to buy flowers from a market or wholesaler and arrange the flowers yourself.

,

Another way to not go over budget by buying vases & fancy glasses (if you don’t already have a lot that you like) is to substitute these items with mason jars. Mason jars are reminiscent of summer past times – homemade jams and jellies, catching lightning bugs, and making When summer comes to mind, you probably think of lemonade, backyard barbecues, bright fresh iced tea. Since mason jars remind people of summer, you can use them as a theme colors, watermelon, refreshing drinks, and the like. While you are looking for inspiration for your summer soiree. They are also very inexpensive at $10 for a dozen of the pint or for your summer soiree party, think classic quart sizes, and even less expensive for the backyard barbecue meets garden tea party.

8 ounce cups. Use the quart & pint sizes for It’s nice to have the classic summer staples vases; you can even spray paint these gold from a backyard BBQ menu, but a few feminine touches like fresh flowers and a nice to add a fancy touch (see DIY below). Use the 8 ounce mason jars for cocktails and tablecloth can go a long way. Fresh flowers, also as dessert cups. If you choose to place especially for a summer gathering, can be the focal point of your decor. Add flowers like flowers in the spray painted Mason jar vases, yellow roses & pink peonies to display bright these are a great party favor for your guests. and summery colors. With these flowers, you Have each friend or a couple take home one spray-painted Mason jar with a flower or two can get away with a neutral tablecloth and inside. People love flowers and your guests keep things simple (i.e. not spending too will love that you took the time to make them much money finding the perfect tablecloth something. pattern or place settings). Keep your plating simple and have mixed colorful napkins to NO.129

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Gold painted Mason jars with floral arrangement NO.132

diy:

Materials (1) 12pack of Ball Mason Jars (I used pint sizes) (1) can gold leafing spray Old newspaper Rubber gloves

Instructions: 1 Remove and dispose of tops to mason jars 2 Lay newspaper in an open area safe to spray paint 3 With your rubber gloves on, spray the gold leafing spray (with the mason jar right side up) over the “Ball� logo and the back design.

4 Once these parts of the glass are covered, carefully flip the jar over on to the newspaper and spray rest of the sides and bottoms 5 Let dry for 20-30min and repeat above steps & let dry again

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dress & Shoes: Terra Cotta

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Dress s

Be comfortable, easy, breezy, and bright! Wear a floral or paisley pattern in a silhouette that best suits your style, or just something bright! If you’re preppy, wear a sundress, if you’re a little more edgy, a boho maxi dress may be more you, or you may even want to wear patterned shorts and a top. Wear YOUR best style, just think sunny & cheerful. Celebrate the start of the season, just don’t be the girl in all black to a summer soiree!

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Menu

(food)

BBQ SLIDERS (serves 12) 2 pounds pulled pork from your favorite barbecue joint (homemade barbecue takes a long time to make, save the hassle and buy it elsewhere) 2 dozen mini bun/rolls 2 dozen pickle chips WATERMELON + FETA SKEWERS (serves 12) 2 dozen pieces of cubed watermelon 2 dozen cubes of feta 2 dozen basil leaves Place 1 feta cube & 1 basil leaf above 1 slice of watermelon with a skewer. Voila!

COBB SALAD (serves 12) 5 romaine hearts, chopped 1 pound shredded chicken breast 3 hard boiled eggs, yolks and whites separated and chopped 6 pieces cooked bacon, crumbled Âź cup gorgonzola cheese crumbles 1 diced red onion 1 avocado, sliced Place lettuce in a very large serving bowl and arrange remaining ingredients clockwise in order listed. Toss with bleu cheese dressing and serve.

MINI BANANA PUDDINGS (serves 12) Store bought or packet banana pudding Fill mini mason jars with pudding. Layer with crumbled Nilla wafers & whipped cream, or get really fancy and spoon meringue on top and torch or broil at 350 until top is bubbly.

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Menu

(drinks)

PITCHER OF MOJITOS (yields 8 drinks) 16 ounces rum of choice 16 ounces club soda 12 tablespoons fresh squeezed lime juice 12 mint leaves (muddled) 8 tablespoons sugar 2 limes sliced Combine all ingredients except for lime slices in pitcher filled with ice, stir, and pour immediately.

Add a splash of soda to each drink as well as a slice of lime and spring of mint.

LEMON INFUSED WATER or LEMONADE You should always have water for your guests, let’s face it, people just get thirsty (and not just for cocktails!). To go along with a summer theme, slice 3 seedless lemons and place them in a 1-2 gallon glass dispenser. This can also add a nice summery touch to any room!

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By Sarah Solomon – @urbanJAP – www.sarah-sol.com

What do you think of when you hear the word “preppy”? To me, preppy connotes timeless, dignified ensembles that will never change or fall out of favor; its styles only altered to better fit modern sizing. And while the Prep lifestyle is not necessarily trendy, it’s a cult classic that will always maintain a devoted fanbase that lives adhering to its mannerisms and defined look, just like the generations before them.

Being “preppy” (the meaning of which is a whole other can of worms, but for the sake of this article I’ll bastardize the expression) is “in” right now mostly because we’re being subjected to such a volatile, unstable time in our nation’s history. Thanks, Washington. So why wouldn’t we cling to the known and secure when everything else is falling apart? As a result, “preppy” brands have been springing out of the deepest, darkest corners of the Internet.Okay, we may be slightly hyperbolizing Washington’s role in our love of prep. But we can thank a generation whose only constant is their #OOTD instagrams.

The following brands, in my humble opinion, are the pillars of prep. Often imitated but never undermined. By all means they aren’t the sole harbingers of classic, good taste but there is only so much space allotted for my G&T fueled ramblings.

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Brooks Brothers / Established 1818 / Follow @BrooksBrothers Brooks Brothers, America’s oldest clothier, has been introducing the classics since 1818.

Among their many firsts (such as bringing the button-down collar, seersucker, and madras to ‘Merica), they were the first retailer to sell ready-made clothing. Impatient fortune seekers during the California Gold Rush didn’t want to wait a week for a tailor to craft their suits, so B-squared gave them instant gratification in the form of wool and cotton. Brooks Brothers has done everything from outfitting 39 out of 44 Presidents, to collaborating with Thom Browne for a couture Black Fleece line, to introducing a slimmer, more youthful line called Red Fleece.

Although the beloved brand has seen a fair amount of change, their connection to American history and the original gold diggers will always be a steadfast part of prep culture.

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J. Press / Established 1902 / Follow @JPRESS_1902 One of the true bastions of Ivy style, since 1902 J. Press has had an, “unwavering commitment to dress men to an Ivy League standard.” First opened on Yale’s campus, the East Coast-centric brand stocks staples, such as three-button suits, bright colored sweaters, and trousers. They’re also known for fun scarves and ties accented with the respective Ivy League school’s motifs and colors. The brand recently collaborated with the brothers behind Ovadia & Sons (GQ’s recently named Best New Designers in America) to create York Street for J. Press, a younger and fresher iteration that still maintains a heritage-inspired vibe. Hit up the new York Street, Ivy Style haven in the West Village if you feel like hunting for the one or two elusive, straight menswear bloggers in NYC. NO.153

L.L. Bean / Established 1912 / Follow @LLBEAN L.L. Bean grew out of humble beginnings and one product: the Maine hunting shoe developed

by Leon Bean. One day he returned from a hunting expedition, irritated that his feet were cold and wet. Rather than having a #WhiteGirlProblem moment and settling for a sigh of exasperation, Bean had a cobbler sow leather uppers onto his rubber boots and the outdoor brand was born. Bean boots are as practical as they are durable, and speak to the generations of New Englanders that vacationed in quaint cottages located in the barren wilderness, built from nothing but determination and their parents’ money. God forbid, these shoes would be needed to shovel your driveway, but at the very least you will need them to walk from your house to the Range Rover. Prepare for the worst.

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Sperry Topsider / Established 1935 / Follow: @SperryTopsider The preppy have been gripping the slippery decks of schooners to gin soaked bars with their boat shoes for decades. Paul Sperry explored this nautically-inclined notion when he noticed his dog’s ability to run across the snow without slipping because of the traction created by the grooves in its paws. He applied the same herringbone-like pattern to the white bottom of shoes (so they wouldn’t leave marks on a pristine deck) and some of the most versatile shoes of all time were born. A pair of Sperry’s are ideal for dressing down casual business attire or sprucing up clam diggers, a polo, and that keg that seems to be ceaselessly whispering your name. It’s hard to dispose of a trusty pair when their time has come, but treat it with the same sentiment as replacing your worn down mistress — just peruse the Internet until you find a less damaged option.

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GANT / Established 1949 / Follow @GANT1949 Ukrainian immigrant Bernard Gantmacher needed to make some cash during pharmacy school so he worked night shifts in the Garment District where he met his wife, Rose. Long story short they moved to New Haven, Connecticut and opened GANT of New Haven with their two sons, utilizing their knowledge gained after decades in the garment business. At the time the brand was known for trendy, but high-quality shirts, which featured daring accents like the button-down collar, locker loop, and box pleats. Crazy, I know. Their shirts were a big hit and (much like your current emotional state) worn to tatters by the preppy, Ivy League set. GANT’s merchandise is still inspired by their roots, but has grown to keep ‘trendy’ a part of their brand DNA. Their portfolio now includes GANT by Michael Bastian and GANT Rugger.

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Lilly Pulitzer / Established 1959 / Follow: @LillyPulitzer No introduction is needed for this brand. We know, “it all started with a juice stand.” Lilly Pulitzer was a freshly married NYC native, plopped down in Palm Beach, Florida with an abundance of time on her hands and oranges from her husbands’ groves. Rather than become a victim to ennui, Lilly decided to open up a juice stand where her friends could socialize and gather around. Unfortunately, alcohol plus squeezing fruit resulted in many stained dresses. Rather than replacing her beloved sheaths and caftans, Lilly had her seamstress dye them different colors. She wasn’t the only one in love with her multicolored frocks, and the ladies wanted to purchase the dresses in addition to the juice.

Thus began the Lilly Pulitzer empire, filled with pinks, greens, and prints aplenty to fit her inebriated friends tastes. They are irrefutably timeless wardrobe additions that keep the tradition of day drinking alive, and make it classy.

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Ralph Lauren / Established 1967 / Follow @RalphLauren Bronx-born and raised, Ralph Lifshitz had a dream of capturing the essence of the American preppy lifestyle. Ralph made his dream a reality and now has a multi-million dollar business, including an array of brands under the RL umbrella. He ironically began his career selling neckties for Brooks Brothers, a brand that would soon become one of his biggest competitors.

Ralph began to design his own ties and sell them through department stores, eventually opening his own store, his success escalating with each new sartorial endeavor. The personality of the brand can best be felt when walking through the doors at the Rhineland Mansion on New York’s Upper East Side that serves as the International flagship. Winding staircases, granite accents, and all the classic accoutrements one expect from the man who brought us the best damn bar accessories the world has seen. Mazel tov, Ralph.

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Kiel James Patrick / Established 2007 / Follow @KJP, @SarahKJP The stewards of seaside living, the Kiel James Patrick brand injects the essence of their Rhode Island lifestyle into American made, nautically-themed wares. After finding success with producing a hardier, more fashionable version of the sailors rope bracelet, Kiel and his girlfriend Sarah Vickers began marketing other similarly themed products such as bow bracelets, belts, neckwear, headbands and most recently, shirting. Their hard-earned success came from truly living the brand, allowing others to see their daily lives through Twitter, Tumblr, Vine, and their blogs classygirlswearpearls.com and Fivepointfox.com. Of note is their recent collaboration with Brooks Brothers and appearance in the latest catalog. Also how all their products are handcrafted by ridiculously attractive people.

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diy WARDROBE REMIX: THE BALLET FLAT UPGRADE

BY MEGAN PETERS @crazybananas NO.160

before

Ballet flats are an essential piece every well-dressed woman should have in her wardrobe. They are the perfect mix of casual and chic, and can provide a stylish look without hurting your feet so badly you feel like you might have to ice them after a day at the office (I’m looking at you, four-inch high heels!).

Style icons like Audrey Hepburn swore by the simple, black flat, and they truly do go with almost every outfit. Even if you only have ten minutes to get ready, you can throw on a pair of skinny jeans, a simple sweater or fitted t-shirt, big sunglasses and ballet flats, and you’ll look like you stepped right out of a 1960s issue of Vogue. Ballet flats are the perfect investment piece, because you’ll wear them forever and they will never go out of style.

The only problem a girl may have with ballet flats it they wear them too much, which can cause quite a bit of wear and tear on these precious wardrobe staples. So what to do? You love your flats, and aren’t quite ready to part with them, but they are a bit scuffed and are looking like they are on their last leg.

Do you throw them out and buy a whole new pair? Heck, no! With just a few supplies from your local craft store, you can give your old ballet flats new life!

Using hot trends such as metallics and patterns as a guide, you will makeover your footwear, save money and look fantastic.

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Polka Dot Detail DIY Step 1

Clean your old shoes as well as possible with a wet cloth. Remove all dirt from surface.

Step 2

Grab some permanent paint pens from the paint section of your local craft store. Shake them well before use.

Step 3

Create medium-sized dots all over the shoe using the paint pen. Try to keep the pattern random to create interest.

Step 4

Step 5

Wear your cute new kicks out for dinner on the town with your best friends!

Set aside to dry for at least one hour.

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Metallic Detail DIY Step 1

Clean your old shoes as well as possible with a wet cloth. Remove all dirt from surface.

Step 2

Use some painters tape and tape off the part of your shoe that you want to show the new color. Cover the remainder of the shoe in paper or a plastic bag.

Step 3

Use metallic spray paint (buy it at your local craft or hardware store) and spray the tip of your shoe that is not covered with tape or paper.

Step 5

Step 4

Let the paint dry for an hour and then remove the tape and covering.

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Dance around in your pretty new shoes!

Striped Detail DIY Step 1

Clean your old shoes as well as possible with a wet cloth. Remove all dirt from surface.

Step 2

Using painters tape, tape off your shoes in strips to create a striped pattern. Stuff the inside of the shoe with paper.

Step 3

Paint the entire shoe using spray paint in the color of your choosing.

Step 4

Let the paint dry for an hour, then slowly remove the tape (taking care not to fray the paint) from the shoe.

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Step 5

Kick up your heels and use the money you saved by not buying new shoes to take yourself out to a movie!

Needlepoint Accessories Fashion | sorority | custom

ts a e r T t e e w S r e m Sum

By Nikki Rappaport / @nikkirap / www.cupcakesforbreakfast.com

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For summer picnics or parties, bring something sweet and easy. I love these banana cupcakes with cream cheese frosting – the two flavors go so well together and just melt in your mouth. To make them even more festive, bake them in cute gingham wrappers! Enjoy!

One Bowl Banana Cupcakes

• • • • • • • • •

4 ripe bananas, mashed 2.5 cups sugar 3 eggs 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 cup canola oil 1.5 cups milk 3 cups flour 1.5 teaspoons baking powder 1.5 teaspoons salt

1 Preheat oven to 350°. Line enough muffin tins with paper liners for 30 cupcakes.

2 Mix the ingredients in the order listed in a large bowl, starting with the wet ingredients and moving to the dry ones.

3 Bake for twenty minutes, rotating the pan mid-way. Let cool on wire racks before

frosting.

Cream Cheese Frosting

• • • •

2 eight-ounce package of cream cheese, softened 1 stick unsalted butter, softened 1- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 4-5 cups confectioners’ sugar

1 Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.

2 Add the vanilla extract.

3 Gradually add the sugar and beat until incorporated.

4 Pipe onto cupcakes.

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NO.168

mandy’s

summer

cocktails

By Mandy Kellogg Rye @waitingonmartha Photography by Rustic White Photography @rusticwhite - www.rusticwhitephotography.com When summer comes around I want nothing more than a margarita. However, I hate the margarita mix most restaurants and bars serve, so I’ve found, like most things, the best margarita is one you make on your own. Here are my two takes on the classic margarita: Fire in Your Belly and Respect Your Elders. The Fire in Your Belly provides just enough kick, or rather heat, but doesn’t overpower the drink. I love it so much it was actually the signature cocktail at our wedding! The Respect Your Elders combination of fresh limes, mint, and elderflower is a fresh and cool take on a summertime classic. You may have noticed that I have added club soda to both my margaritas. For me it’s the perfect way to add some no-calorie fizz...and who doesn’t like some pop and fizz?

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Fire In

YourBelly What you need: - 1.5 oz Silver Tequila (you could also sub 2 - 2.5 oz Skinny Girl Margarita) - 2 sliced jalapeños - 1 oz fresh lime juice - Splash (or 2) of Simple Syrup or Agave to taste - Splash (or 2) of club soda (optional) - Salt (optional) 1 In a cocktail shaker combine ice, tequila, 1 sliced jalapeño complete with seeds, lime juice, and simple syrup or agave. Shake, shake, shake.

2 Take your lime and run it around the rim of your glass then immediately dip the glass into salt. Fill glass with ice, pour margarita mixture add the splash of club soda (optional).

3 Garnish with 2-4 jalapeño slices & enjoy.

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respect  your

elders

R espec t Y our E lders

What you need: - 1.5 oz Silver Tequila (I prefer Herradura or Patron) - 1 oz St. Germaine - 1 oz fresh lime juice - 1/2 oz club soda - Splash Simple Syrup or Agave to taste - 2-4 sprigs of mint - Salt (optional) 1 In a cocktail shaker add the mint leaves and muddle. Add ice, tequila, St. Germaine, lime juice, and simple syrup or agave. Shake, shake, shake.

2 Take your lime and run it around the rim of your glass then immediately dip the glass into salt (you could also do a sugar rim if you like your margarita sweeter). Fill glass with ice, pour margarita mixture and add the club soda.

3 Garnish with a sprig of mint and slice of lime and enjoy.

For more recipes visit: www.waitingformartha.com NO.173

r e m m u S r o f s d n i Fave f 2

illustrations by Anum tariq @anumtariq21

3 1

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#LEMONLOVE

6 4

5

1 Topshop Lemon Bikini // 2 Rachel Zoe Straw Striped Sun Hat // 3 Charlotte Ronson Herringbone Stripe Canvas Tote // 4 Bumble and bumble Surf Spray // 5 Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment SPF 15 // 6 Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne //

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xo, the Sweet Lemon Mag Team