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The Better Junior Year Dorm Room

September 30, 2014

Full Room View
Finally, my dorm is complete and I'm so excited to share it with you guys! Generally, the first remark people make is, "Oh, your room is so...small...but you've made really good use of the space." I'll admit, my room is tiny, especially considering that I am an upperclassman (ew, I'm old!) and had many other options. I lived in this building last year and loved it so much the idea of moving was unbearable. So yes, it is small, but the size is never an excuse for sacrificing style, and I'm always up for a challenge (as long as it isn't calculus).
My delicious bed
While I do still have a few pieces from my old room this year was about going above and beyond...almost to the point of complete ridiculousness for a dorm. The peacock, silk curtains really made a dramatic statement, especially with my chandelier floor lamp in front of it. 
I had many e-mails asking for dorm tips, and I think one of the best ways to make your room unique is to shop in various places. As cute as a bedroom set up might look in Ikea or Bed Bath & Beyond, it's usually a bit tacky or overwhelming when everything has been purchased and set up in your own space. I shopped at Bed Bath & Beyond, Home Goods, Target, Neiman Marcus, Ikea, Amazon, Etsy, Macy's, Pottery Barn, and Overstock.com. The easiest way to elevate your style is to avoid the matchy-matchy look. 
Book Shelf
To avoid making my room cluttered I really tried not to fill every nook and cranny of my bookshelf. It's so easy to fall into the trap of acquiring more junk just because you have the space to put it. Not only does this hurt your wallet, but it is so easy to become a disorganized mess. 

Five Better Moments of the Week

September 24, 2014

breakfast shoot
Picture from my brunch shoot with my photography bestie, Jolie Greenstone

barnard polish
The campus related nail polish sold at the Barnard store

YoQuandra1
When everyone in my literature class coincidentally wore jean jackets we decided a photo shoot was a must

The Better Martha Does High Tea

September 16, 2014

I can't believe I forgot to share with you my favorite part about visiting D.C: Lady Camilla's, this fabulous little spot for tea in Georgetown. It is filled with pink and begs for all visitors to wear a floral tea dress (though not required). I chose to get a pot of English breakfast tea, some macarons, a mini cupcake, finger sandwiches, and a couple scones. This was surprisingly filling and kept us energized for an day of shopping and exploring.
bridget teacup teacake copy savories

The Better Outfit Featuring My Mom

September 02, 2014

Going to college on the other side of the country means that visits from mom are extra special. I don’t know how she does it but every time we reunite, I’m re-hit with the reality that she is way more stylish than me. Right now is an especially great time for a mom appreciation post. Today she did a lot of driving and heavy lifting to get me moved into college. She was even a really good sport when I asked her to make my bed and iron my sheets.
Dress: BCBGMAXAZRIA (sold out) | Shoes: Brian Atwood | Bag: Fendi (old) | Watch: Vintage Rolex

We were visiting New Hampshire for a couple days, and this was the outfit my mom chose for exploring the town and doing a little nature walk. I know right? My mom is a total glamazon (she normally hates heels under 3 inches just FYI).
I adore my mom’s Rolex. She’s had it since my 30-year-old brother was in first grade, and it still looks amazing. For some reason all the watches I see in stores now a day are so flashy: too big, too bulky, too sparkly. I’m really attracted to the simplicity and practicality of this watch, and how its style relevancy isn’t questioned 25 years later.