"That's a Croc" flat from Tipsy Skipper

If you've been on the hunt for the perfect lip & cheek stain, look no further.

Benefit Cosmetics as come up with Cha Cha Tint; an exquisite lip and cheek stain perfect for a summer glow!

I received a sample of Cha Cha Tint when I ordered a sea of makeup from Benefit at the beginning of the summer. I was a little hesitant to try it at first because I normally don't wear color on my lips. But one day, I had a change of heart and I decided to be adventurous and give it a try. To my surprise, I loved the color of this tint! It's the perfect shade of coral-mango and looks great with a casual or dolled up look.

Not only do I love the color of this tint, but also its versatility as a lip OR cheek stain. The color is perfect for either use and it's a spot on shade for your every day makeup routine or summer date nights!

Don't be sticker shocked by the $29 price tag. This tint is WELL worth the price and the bottle lasts forever - a little amount goes a long way!

Need suggestions for beauty products? 

Leave a comment below and I'll suggest the perfect one!

xoxo

CP

My newest purchase

After my mom and I went out to lunch, I decided to check out a new accessory boutique, Dear Prudence, that opened in my hometown a few days ago. I had seen a picture of the store on Facebook and thought it was incredibly adorable.

The moment I stepped into Dear Prudence I saw a massive wall of bubble necklaces in all sizes and colors. I fell immediately in love and had to buy one! It was a tough decision, but I went with the coral mini bubble necklace pictured above.  

The best part about this necklace...it was only $30! The larger bubble necklaces (shown on the wall in the picture below) were about $60. Dear Prudence doesn't have a website yet, but I'm working on finding more information about that.

I'm planning on stopping by Dear Prudence one more time before I head back to Chicago. Can't beat prices on adorable bubble necklaces like this!

The bubble wall at Dear Prudence. Beautiful!

xoxo

CP

All That JAS Giveaway!

Just in time for back-to-school and recruitment!

I've partnered with North Carolina company All That JAS for a great giveaway where one lucky winner will win their choice of Greek-lettered OR monogrammed tee!
(Enter using Rafflecopter below)

I've been an All That JAS customer ever since I joined my sorority freshman year. In fact, I ordered my very first Greek-lettered shirt from All That Jas! My parents also gave me two All That JAS Greek-lettered sweatshirts for Christmas a few years ago that I absolutely love (I would post photos of the lettered apparel they've made for me, but I'm currently disaffiliated from my sorority for fall recruitment)!

 Based out of Elon, NC, All that JAS creates high-quality applique Greek-lettered shirts, and although I've never purchased a monogrammed tee, I'm sure they are superb as well. They have an array of fabric options to create the perfect combination for your lettered shirt, even designer fabrics from Lilly Pulitzer, Vineyard Vines, and Vera Bradley! See all their fabrics here.

All That Jas also has a great selection of Greek gifts, paddle supplies, Greek jewelry, and Lilly Pulitzer accessories. I love their gift packages - perfect for Big/Little reveal! Visit their site to see all they have to offer!

If I could win my own giveaway, I'd choose a navy tee with Vineyard Vines "Pink Pineapple" Greek letters with a white border! I'll treat myself to this once I'm re-affiliated with my sorority!

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Enter this giveaway using Rafflecopter by signing in with Facebook or using your email. Don't worry - Rafflecopter won't post to your Facebook wall or access your information.

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Good luck!

CP

On vacation!

Taking a break from the blog this weekend and heading to my hometown of Grand Rapids, MI for some quality time with my family! 

Back on Tuesday!

xoxo

CP

Gold Fleck Cork clutch by K.slademade

Check out the new 2012 fall Lilly Pulitzer prints!

I'm loving on Pocket Full of Posies, Gigi, and Bocce!

Which new print is your favorite?

Chicago to Michigan travel essentials

When I'm craving a weekend at home in Michigan, like this weekend for instance, I simply pack up my Vera Bradley Miller tote and hop on a train at Millenium Station.

The almost two-hour train ride can become quite a bore (I've learned through my college years), so it's a must to come prepared with some form of entertainment and sustenance.

Here's what I always pack in my tote for the train:

1. A good book

Well, in this case, a Kindle. Currently, I'm reading Summer at Tiffany (read about it in an upcoming post!). My Kindle is also great for playing games and browsing Amazon.com when I can pick up WiFi!

2. iPhone

Who doesn't feel lost without their phone? On the train, I usually use my phone keep up to date on Twitter while on the train (also to make sure my ride is there to pick me up)! 

3. A beverage

If you follow my Instagram account, you know how much I love my La Croix sparkling water. I usually bring a few cans of cran-raspberry with me!

4. A snack

My snack or choice? Pirate's Booty. This stuff is seriously addicting (WARNING!)

These train essentials usually make the trip back home bearable and well worth the long commute!

Here's what my Twitter followers said they can't live without while travelling: 

"I must travel with a book & my L.L. Bean tote."

-Lauren (@DCGirlinPearls)

"Excellent headphones!"

-Kathleen (@KatieWalpole)

"iPhone, of course!"

-Jess (@jgambacurta)

"Makeup remover, among other skin products!"

-Kate (@KateMurphy23)

"My essential travel item is my Nook. I'm able to have large selections of books with me wherever and whenever."

-Maura (@PolosPearlsBows)

What's your must-have while traveling to your desired destination?

Only a few hours of work, then it's time to catch my train and enjoy a relaxing few days at home with my family!

xoxo

CP

Sparkling Stones Necklace from C.Wonder

Even though we're about to hit August and summer is still in full swing, it's never to early to think about what tote will be carrying your textbooks, what shoes will walk you to class, and so on.

Yesterday, Tory Burch sent out an email announcing their fall collection of clothing and accessories. Going to classes on the first day as the most fabulous you has never been a faux-pas. Textbooks look better is a leather tote. The walk to class seems less boring when you're wearing your new favorite shoes. Class flies by when you're dressed to the nines.

What better way to make a re-appearance on campus than with the assistance of Tory Burch's new fall collection of accessories?

Browse through these pieces that I'd love to strut with on campus and tell me which one you'd most likely be seen with!

Printed Ella Tote

Poplin Tablet Sleeve (left)

Robinson E-tablet Case (right)

Calista Flat Riding Boot

Eddie Bow Ballet Flat 

Reva Clutch

Robinson Mini Square Tote

xoxo

CP

Inside the 2012-2013 Lilly agendas

My day started off beautifully this morning with a package from Lilly Pulitzer containing my new jumbo agenda. Since I was filling the pages up in last year's agenda, I decided to go with a jumbo this year. With a couple leadership positions, two jobs, and a full class schedule, I'm in need of this over-sized planner!

For those of you who haven't ordered yours yet, here's an inside scoop on the 2012-2013 Lilly agendas!

I've gotten a few tweets from people who wanted to see what the inside pages look like and how the jumbo compares to the large sized agendas. Luckily, last school year I purchased the large agenda, so I'm able to give you a side-by-side comparison!

The large agendas are 6.75 x 8, while the jumbo is 8.5 x 11 (the size of a standard notebook).

Each month has a stunning cover page, a monthly calendar, and two pages to plan out your weekly schedule.

If you have any more questions about this years agendas, leave a comment below! I'm happy to answer an questions so you can order your agenda ASAP!

If you already have yours, tell me which Lilly agenda will be keeping you organized!

xoxo

CP

Tory Burch Fall LookBook

Just got an email about the new arrivals at Tory Burch and the Fall LookBook! Check out all the new Tory arrivals (just in time to start shopping for fall) and the stunning outfits that made the runway in the LookBook!

Here's a preview of the LookBook:

Happy Thursday!

CP

J.Crew faceoff

Every morning when I'm choosing my outfit, the question regarding my accessories is always "shiny or simple?" I personally love all things that sparkle and shine, but I'm also a fan of the basics.

I got an email from J.Crew yesterday about these bangles and thought they were the perfect example of how to jazz up your outfit with glimmering gold accessories or to be classically chic with basic enamel bangles.

I love J.Crew's bracelets because they can be mixed and matched, no matter the material, price, or size. Whether you're looking to dazzle or dress down, J.Crew's bangles are perfect for any occasion!

Which would you prefer? Gold or simple?

Goldmine stack

(top to bottom)

1. Enamel Elephant Bracelet

2. Track Link Bracelet

3. Classic Pave Link Bracelet

4. Crystal Marquis Bracelet

Basic Stack

1. Classic Medium Bangle

2. Classic Wide Bangle

xoxo

CP

POTD

A spot of lemonade.  

Many shades of Julep

As stated in my previous post, I'm now a Julep Maven, subscribed to a "Classic with a Twist" Maven Box, and am utterly obsessed with all things Julep! Here are a few of my favorite shades (classic and adventurous)!

Which shade is your favorite?

Want to become a Julep Maven? 

Take the Julep Maven quiz and sign up here!

(Use the code PENNY to receive your first Maven box for a penny!!)

Julep Maven

Hello, I'm Carly, and I'm a nail polish addict.

Ever since I was little, I've always had to have some sort of color on my nail. I usually stick to a classic red, flirtatious pink, or sophisticated nude. 

I've admired Julep's nail products for quite some time now. I LOVE the fact that their polishes contain no formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, or DBP. 

Today, I finally took the step in becoming a Julep Maven! According to their quiz, I'm "Classic with a Twist" (I think that's very befitting of my style)! In my first Maven box, I'll these two classic shades of Julep polish and a sample of their Pedi Creme!

Want to become a Julep Maven? 

Take the Julep Maven quiz and sign up here!

(Use the code PENNY to receive your first Maven box for a penny!!)

Stay tuned to see some of my favorite Julep shades!

New discovery: KEP Designs

I found KEP Designs last week on Twitter, and at the time, they were also having an AMAZING sale on Gilt.com.

Based out of New York City, KEP Designs has stunning collections of bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Everything they produce is of the highest quality and could be worn on a casual day with the girls or on a romantic date night with your man. With bright bold colors and shiny metallics, these accessories are so versatile and could easily go from beach to city!

I'm especially in love with their enamel and 18K gold plated bangles, there are so many designs to choose from! I absolutely love everything KEP Designs has created and hope to be able to own a piece of this company soon! 

It was a difficult decision, but here are a few of my favorites from KEP Designs! (Some of these were found on the day of the Gilt.com sale and are no longer available on the KEP Designs website.)

Which one is your favorite?

1. Horseshoe Charm Bangle 

2. Beaded necklace (alternate color)

3. Semi-precious stone flower earrings

 4. Kelley Green Teardrop hoop earrings 

5. Gold bracelet 

6. Enamel bangle set

Double giveaway week: Bridier Baubles & Southernly Stated!

Since my giveaways have been so responsive lately, I decided to host TWO giveaways this week!

The first giveaway is for this "Cece Stack" bracelet from Bridier Baubles. This is the newest addition to their bracelet collection; I just love the multiple-stack look of this single bracelet. It looks good alone or would make a great companion for your other favorite bracelets!

Check out the Bridier Baubles website to view all their other designs. I'm a big fan of their bangles and earrings!

For the second giveaway, I partnered with Southernly Stated to get you totally prepared for tailgating season! Enter this giveaway for your choice of ACC or SEC tank & a Southernly Stated koozie!

Enter both giveaways by Sunday night for your chance to win!

Sign in using Facebook or your email to use Rafflecopter. Don't worry - it won't post to your Facebook wall or access your information!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Off to work!

I won't be on the blog or Twitter today because I'll be working all day at Monograms on Webster, the most adorable monogramming boutique in Chicago! 

Just a reminder that my Pea Pod Paper and Gifts giveaway ends TONIGHT at midnight - so make sure you enter to win this pair of aqua teal crab earrings and a matching Inca bracelet!

In addition, I decided to do a put on a weekend giveaway to show my appreciation for all my amazing followers! Enter here by tomorrow night at midnight to win a gorgeous pair of Glimmering Summer Waves earrings from Pink Pineapple!

Have a wonderful Saturday!

CP

A night with Austin, Carly Rae, & Boys Like Girls

Last night, I was lucky enough to attent Pop Tart's "Crazy Good Summer Concert" featuring heartthrob Austin Mahone, up-in-coming star Carly Rae Jepsen, and pop-rock band Boys Like Girls.

Held at the Charter One Pavilion on Chicago's Museum Campus, Pop Tart's hosted a concert for the first 4,000 fans to reserve tickets on Facebook. Besides the musical performers, the night featured comedic hosts from Second City, a Pop Tarts red carpet where concert-goers could take photos with their favorite Pop Tarts mascot, a photo booth, and other fun activities for the wait in between performers. 

The concert started off with Austin Mahone, singing several of his most popular songs, showing off his dance moves, and singing to three lucky girls as they sat on stage.

Carly Rae charmed the audience with her bubbly personality, fun & flirty lyrics, and even gave the audience an exclusive performance of one of her new songs. Of course, she finished her set with the ever popular Call Me Maybe where she invited guests on stage to sing along with her.

I've been a Boys Like Girls fan since I was in middle school and have seen them several times in concert. They never cease to entertain me! This pop-rock group always knows how to win over the audience with their catchy songs and energetic performance.

I want to give a HUGE thank you to Kate Manofsky, assistant account executive at Krispr Communications, for setting me up with a media pass that allowed me to take photos in the photo pit right in front of the performers. It was an amazing experience and a great taste of what a future career is PR and media would be like! 

A shot of the crowd during Carly Rae Jepsen's performance of Call Me Maybe.
(Photo by Carly Petertyl)

I was able to take hundreds of amazing photos from the photo pit in front of the stage. Here are a few of my favorites!

Photos by Carly Petertyl

CHICAGO, IL - JULY 19: (L-R) Morgan Dorr and Martin Johnson of Boys Like Girls, Austin Mahone, Carly Rae Jepsen, John Keefe and Paul DiGiovanni of Boys Like Girls attend Pop-Tarts Crazy Good Summer Concert at Charter One Pavilion on July 19, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for Kellogg's Pop Tarts)

CHICAGO, IL - JULY 19: Austin Mahone attends Pop-Tarts Crazy Good Summer Concert at Charter One Pavilion on July 19, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for Kellogg's Pop Tarts)

CHICAGO, IL - JULY 19: (L-R) Morgan Dorr, Paul DiGiovanni, Martin Johnson and John Keefe of Boys Like Girls attend Pop-Tarts Crazy Good Summer Concert at Charter One Pavilion on July 19, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for Kellogg's Pop Tarts)

CHICAGO, IL - JULY 19: Carly Rae Jepsen attends Pop-Tarts Crazy Good Summer Concert at Charter One Pavilion on July 19, 2012 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Schear/Getty Images for Kellogg's Pop Tarts)

This was such an amazing experience and enjoyed every moment!

xoxo

CP

Pink Pineapple Weekend Giveaway!

It's time for a special weekend giveaway!!

This weekend, one lucky Chicago Prepster follower will win a pair of gorgeous "Glimmering Summer Waves" earrings from Pink Pineapple!

I have the smaller version of these earrings and I absolutely love them! I wear them almost every day - they go with any outfit!

Enter using Rafflecopter below before midnight on Sunday, July 22!

Here are a few of my Pink Pineapple favorites:

1. "Tear Drop" earrings

2. "Alekta's Allure" bangle

3. "Averlie Anchorage" bracelet

4. "Cape Breeze" bangle

5. "Buzzed" earrings

6. "Cape Knot Dock" belt

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Guest Blogger: Samantha from Subtly Fabulous

Hi everyone! I am Samantha from Subtly Fabulous guest blogging for Carly! I wanted to share some of my Summer favorites and staples with you all today.

Dress | Bag | Sandals | Watch | Necklace | Phone Case

I have been so obsessed with all of these items this summer, and together they look even better! This dress is one of my favorites because you can totally go from day to night. For the bag, you will nearly always see me with a big tote because I just insist on carrying my entire life around with me at all times. The necklace is one of my favorites and I wear my monogram necklace a few times a week and it never ceases to receive compliments. The watch is a bangle watch and I have one that is very similar; however, I love the bow on this one! The sandals match the dress perfectly so really there was no other choice. The phone case is too adorable to pass up with its gold polka dots!

Well I hope you all enjoyed my post on the Chicago Prepster’s blog and please be sure to stop my Subtly Fabulous soon!

(Samantha and I did a blog post swap! Click here to see the post I wrote for her blog.)

Shop this look.

sunglasses | earrings | necklace | shirt | shorts | clutch | shoes

Summer is half way over, and it's time to start thinking about textbooks and school supplies (Noooo!). Here are a couple tips on how to make your back-to-school experience a better one.

Play up your school supplies this year with Vera Bradley binder clips, Jonathan Adler highlighters, and a Lilly Pulitzer planner (this is the one I ordered!). These colorfully inspired designers bring cheer to organization and dull school subjects.

Find a tote bag that goes with all seasons. I love the colors of this Tory Burch tote with fuchsia for spring/summer and navy for winter.

I try and make my commute to my downtown Chicago classes fun with a pair of chic Kate Spade reading glasses (1.50+ for me!), a monogrammed coffee mug (no coffee, no study), and a personalized Kindle case. Who says the daily commute can't be fashionable?

So, lose the boring Five-Star notebook. There's so many ways to bring color, pattern, and texture into your school supplies so you'll actually enjoy using them! Shop your favorite designers and see what school supplies they have to offer. I guarantee it will make school that much more enjoyable!

xoxo

CP

Featured on Curating Style's "Preps Out of Place"!

Exciting news today! :)

Check out my interview with Curating Style! Learn more about the girl behind Chicago Prepster, some of my hobbies, favorite products, and must-read online publications! You can find the whole feature here.

Jess did an amazing job putting this together and I'm absolutely thrilled with the result!

Here's a preview:

Happy Wednesday!

CP