Top: Aeropostale

Skirt: Zara (similar here)

Sandals: H&M (similar here)

Bag: Forever 21 (similar here)

I have a tendency to splurge excessively on the biannual Zara sale. I've realized, however, that most of my purchases have been price- versus need-based. Regretfully, I now have items in my wardrobe that have been touched once since the last winter sale. I recently read an article on shopping advice that has made me reconsider my impulsive habits. Regarding sale items, it posed the question, "Would you buy it at regular price?" This way of thinking has truly helped me make purchase decisions during sale season. I'm happy to say that I did not break any Benjamins during this summer's Zara sale!

With this advice in mind, I coincidentally had this skirt in my shopping cart before I knew the sale was arriving (Yes, I'm one of those shoppers who holds things in her cart for days). I'm not one to wear a knotted flannel over my waist, but I love this skirt's take on that trend. The knot adds an interesting detail that can be paired perfectly with a relatively simple look. I also love how the tulip hem elongates my legs, allowing me to wear flat sandals for a casual day. I couldn't be happier with my purchase; I'm sure my bank account agrees.

Let me know what shopping tips you follow in the comments below! I'll be back on Wednesday with some Independence Day inspiration. :)

(My farmer's tan is not actually this bad, I promise...)

Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

Everything else: H&M

To all my shopaholics -- You know those moments when you're shopping and you suddenly spot an item that your mind refuses to forget? This romper was one of those. It is by no means the most spectacular piece of clothing I've ever seen, but there was something about the pale pink background and sketched look of the palm trees that drew me in. Throw in the lightness of chiffon, and I've found myself a summer wardrobe favorite.

You might recognize that I often mention the versatility of a piece of clothing. For those of us who aren't millionaires, this is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping. Versatility is especially important for seasonal pieces like this romper. It can easily be taken from from the beach to a dinner with the girls with the proper accessories. Basics aren't the only items that can be versatile. Take the chance on that statement piece, but consider the amount of situations for which you can wear it. We've recently reached the first day of summer, and I've already worn this romper several times. If you love it, flaunt it!

Romper (on sale!): here 

Top: Tobi

Skirt: Forever 21 (similar here & here)

Clutch: Nine West via TJ Maxx (similar here)

Sunglasses: Zero UV

Sandals: H&M (similar here)

Romper: c/o Sheinside

Heels: Call it Spring (similar)

Necklace: Forever 21 (similar)

Sunglasses: Ray-Ban

So, remember when I posted the link to this romper in my Summer Wish List? I couldn't just keep it as a wish forever. I am so happy I selected this particular romper because it is the best quality piece I have received from Sheinside so far. It is perfectly fitted to my body, but doesn't make me feel like I have to hold an inhale all day. This, added with the flattering neckline and subtle touch of lace, makes for a gorgeous piece for a night out.

I styled the romper with a fringe necklace (thanks to my best friend) and heeled mules for an evening look. What better way to turn heads than by wearing a fiery red romper with some controversial footwear? Like with Birkenstocks, there are countless opinions about the mule trend. I happen to love them in this simplistic heel form because of their versatility. I can wear them all day, from work to a night out. In this case, they are the perfect addition to an already bold outfit.

Top: H&M (similar here)

Skirt: Forever 21 (similar here)

Heels: Zara (similar here)

Wishing everyone a wonderful start to the week! I wore this outfit to see Newsies on Broadway this past weekend for Father's Day. If you ever get the chance, I highly recommend seeing it. Everything from the choreography to the onstage talent is just amazing!

I wanted to embrace the beautiful summer weather with this outfit by pairing a bright yellow blouse with an otherwise neutral look. This skirt is one of my favorite pieces because the combination of pleather and pleats creates a perfectly structured silhouette. The dramatic flare makes for a feminine look, especially when paired with a pair of strappy heels. As a petite girl, the mini circle skirt and nude heels help to give me a few inches. This is also a look that can be worn to work depending on your office culture. The skirt may be a bit too short for my current workplace, but I have worn it to a more casual office in the past. As long as you style a piece like this with the idea of professionalism, you can pull it off even at work. It's all about maintaining the image. 

Top: Zara (here)

Skirt: H&M (similar here & here)

Bag: Forever 21 (similar here)

There's something about the sight of palm trees that instantly lifts my mood. As an East Coast girl, I always see them as the first indications of paradise. It is no surprise that I've been embracing the trend towards palm tree prints this summer. I can just imagine Meryl Streep scoffing and saying, "Palm trees? For summer? Groundbreaking." Nonetheless, I can't resist wearing the quirky but classy print.

This top is meant to be purchased with the matching midi skirt, but lately I've been trying to buy clothing that I know I will wear countless times. In this case, I knew that I would only wear the midi skirt for very specific occasions because of my height (or lack thereof). I paired this crop top with a black maxi skirt instead to emphasize the print. Although this is a monochrome look, it is still fit for summer because the top gives off a subtle athletic vibe. Besides, I can't avoid my all-black looks for too long!

As you may know, my boyfriend and I recently took a trip down to the beautiful city of San Juan in Puerto Rico. What I love most about this city is that it offers the entire package, from genuine culture to luxurious beaches. We spent the first half of our trip exploring the historic Old San Juan. I immediately fell in love with the colorful buildings that lined the city streets, a welcoming sight that is drastically different from those of New York. Keep scrolling for a glimpse into the beauty of Old San Juan!

Old San Juan:

Raices Fountain, Paseo de Princesa

The view from our hotel's rooftop

The lobby of Casablanca Hotel

Along Paseo del Morro

The view from Castillo de San Cristobal

The beautiful city buildings

Condado, San Juan:

Halfway through the week, we made our way to La Concha resort in Condado for the ultimate beach getaway. Unfortunately, I couldn't get many pictures of the fantastic excursions we experienced. My absolutely favorite part of the trip was kayaking to Laguna Grande, the largest bioluminescent lagoon in the world. It was truly amazing to kayak two miles in complete darkness through mangroves to reach the lagoon. I find it even more special that this experience cannot be photographed, and rather kept within personal memories. We also spent a full day snorkeling in the Caribbean Sea with schools of fish swimming inches away from us! Keep scrolling for a few more highlights of our stay in Condado!

The view from our hotel room balcony

Condado Beach

Barrachina, the restaurant that created the first Pina Colada

The view from our snorkel catamaran

Flying at sunset

Tell me about your summer plans in the comments below! I'll return with another outfit post very soon!