CURRENTLY WISHING

                     1. MAC Lipstick in Candy Yum Yum   2. Floral Romper  (Here, Here, or Here)  3. Tory Burch Miller Sandals  
                 4. Dior Show Blue Mascara   5. Prada Cat-Eye Sunglasses   6. Voluspa Suede Blanc Candle   7. Clarasonic Mia 2   
8. Cole Haan Air Monica Flats   9. Bliss Triple Oxygen Energizing Cream 

CHOOSE THE UNEXPECTED

All Pictures from Pinterest

Is it silly that I love this trend of wearing sneakers (tennis shoes, trainers...) with unexpected pieces such as girly shorts, skirts, or dresses?! I used to find this whole idea of wearing sneakers outside of the gym odd...but now I like the quirkiness of paring a bright sneaker with a cute short or girly dress. Not to mention how comfortable it is! You will never complain of blisters with this trend. 

My best advice for wearing this is keep the pieces simple when wearing a bright shoe or it can err on the crazy side (I hope I used that right). I also prefer to not pair these sneakers with "sporty" items as that is too expected, and this whole trend is about the unexpected. Since these shoes are quite casual I suggest keeping the outfit effortless so it doesn't look like you are trying too hard. 

Always remember fashion is meant to be fun and there really aren't any rules. Do what works best for you and just have the confidence to pull it off! Sometimes a new trend can take a few tries until you get it right. I will post an OTTD day with how I like to wear this trend soon. Does anyone else love pairing sneakers with the unexpected?!

TRAVELLIN' TINA

Sorry I haven't been able to post a lot this past week, and this coming week looks like it might be the same. I just wanted to let you guys know I haven't forgotten about you. I had my birthday weekend on June 28th so I just spent some relaxing time with my family and boyfriend. Then this past week I went to the French part of Switzerland to see my boyfriend and his family. Sadly, he can't come to the German part where I am too often since he's working.

Since this post is more of an update I thought I would include at least one picture, and this picture was actually taken by my camera (Can you believe it?!). This is of Montreux, where I spent the day for the jazz festival on Sunday. Surprisingly, I had never been before, and it was so different to what I thought it would have been. During the day, the festival is filled with craft and food stalls, and bars. At night, is where all of the music happens. Next year I would love to get tickets.

For my upcoming trip....I'm leaving tomorrow to head to Italy for the yearly family visit. We're stopping in Milano for a few days while my dad has some meetings then heading on to Marche. My father's hometown is a small beach town, but apparently it's going to rain....that means no beach (sad face).

At the end of my travelling I would love to do a post with pictures about what I have been up to lately.  See you all soon!

CHEERS TO HEALTH

This is not going to be a post about juicing for one week and eating nothing but...that's something I could never do. Cheers to those who have because it's hard work. I just happen to love my food too much. However, I do believe in eating healthy when possible. In our hectic schedules it can be easy to forget the age old concept of eating 5 fruits and veggies a day. I'll be honest, there have been times when at the end of the day I'll realize I may have only had one fruit that day. I'm more of a veggies girl. I won't go into all of the amazing benefits from eating your veggies and fruits. I'm sure we all know how great it is for us to eat healthy. 

I found juicing can be that "extra treat", and can also help me get in my fruit for the day. I try to keep my juices as clean as possible. Just meaning usually only fruits and maybe a dash of agave honey for sweetness. Feel free to add whatever you would prefer whether it's fruit juice, veggies, sugar, milk, protein powder....the list is endless. I just happen to have these fruits around my home and decided to create two juice recipes that are simple to make and good to drink.

I will warn you though, juicing everyday can be quite expensive. You'd be surprised how much fruit you need to make one juice. It can also be a pain in the "you know what" from chopping the fruits, cleaning up of your counters and then finally cleaning the machine. Which is why I do these juices more as a treat. But if you are more patient than I am I say more power to you! 

All pictures shown were a serving for 1 person

(Serves 2 people or 2 times)

Recipe #1:

5 bananas 

500 grams of blueberries 

2-3 apples (depending on taste)

Recipe #2:

1 1/2 Melon (I used a Galia Melon)

4 Mangoes

1-2 Limes

1-2 tbsp Agave Honey (depending on taste)

If you do not like a citrus taste as much I would add one banana to the recipe, which would even out the taste and thicken up the juice. 

The juices taste the best once they have been sitting in the fridge for a bit. If you prefer to have juice only in the morning these can easily be made the night before and left in the fridge for the next day. I have two tips for making juices: 1) Buy/Use more fruit than you think you need  2)Ripe or even overripe fruit is always the best to use.

What kind of fruit/veggies combinations do you prefer in a juice? If anyone tries to make these recipes let me know how you enjoyed them! Cheers 

URBAN PLAYGROUND

This has been one of my favorite summer dresses to wear. It's a simple black dress with a lower scooped back (sadly, didn't get a picture of that), and can easily be dressed up or down. That's my favorite part because I hate to think too much about what to wear. I typically choose quickly, and just go with what I'm feeling at the moment. I bought the dress at Nordstrom around Easter, and have found several occasions to wear it. It's easy, goes with everything, and did I mention how comfortable it is?! If it came in another color I would buy it. 

I've been wanting a jean jacket for awhile and finally found one that had the look I wanted and fit me well. Usually I have to alter jackets since lets just say I'm not on the tall side. The last time I had a jean jacket was the 90's, and since I've gotten this one I have pretty much tried to pair it with anything. The great part is...it does go with everything. 

I thought it would be fun to show the look in two ways and how just adding something as simple as a jean jacket could change the look. To me the jacket gives a more casual look and a more "urban" feel. Without the jacket I feel the look is a little more girly and dressy. 

P.S. Sorry for the quality of the pics, especially close up ones. These were taken with my iPhone.

Now for a "silly" picture. I found a frog statue at this fountain by someone's home. I couldn't resist playing with it. I took some pretty crazy pictures with it that I for sure couldn't post on here haha. 

Dress: Tildon (Bought at Nordstrom)   Jacket: H&M   Shoes: Tory Burch Miller Sandals   Purse: Vintage Gucci

Necklace: Etsy (J Crew Look Alike)  Earrings: James Avery Turquoise Studs   Watch: DKNY 

CURRENT SKINCARE ROUTINE

I thought I would share my current skincare routine for you all as my skin has been looking really healthy lately. If you are anything like me you are always on the hunt for your next skincare product, and trying to find the perfect combination of products to make your skin glow. I am no expert in anyway so these are just products that have been for working for my skin type and lifestyle. Not all of these products are used on a daily basis. 

Some background on my skin: I have very dry skin with an oily forehead (especially in the warmer months). I am fortunate enough to not have acne-prone skin or sensitive skin. However, I have had two crazy hormonal outbreaks in my life where I did need to go on prescription medicine. 

Now to my routine:

1. Cetaphil Facial Wash - The most basic of all facial washes. There really isn't anything special about it, which is what I love about it. Sometimes it can be best to start off with a neutral base and use other products for the other purposes you need. This facial wash is soap free, fragrance free, and great for those who have sensitive skin or need a calming cleanser. 

2. Bioderma Crealine H20-  I have been using this for years, and I don't think I can ever go without now. It is almost like Cetaphil in a makeup remover as it is very gentile with no perfume. I use this twice a day with cotton pads whether I am wearing makeup or not.You'd be amazed how much just washing your face does not remove the dirt or makeup sufficiently.  

3. Lumene Vitamin C Hydrating Day Cream- Since I have dry skin it is very important for me to have a hydrating moisturizer, and only creams seems to work for me (gels don't do anything). I use this twice a day after totally cleansing my face. 

4. Acanya gel- One of my biggest life savers during my last hormonal outbreak I had. This is a prescription so you will have to consult with your dermatologist before getting this product. It is typically is prescribed as an acne medication, but compared to other acne medications it is more used as a retinoid. This basically quickens your cell-turnover rate so your skin can renew faster. I now use it for preventative measures with acne every other night. Only for use at night. 

Masks:

5. Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque- I use this about once a week to every 10 days. It's a typical green mask that you put on your skin after it's thoroughly cleansed (I do mine after a shower when my pores are open) and leave for around 20 mins. 

6. Dermalogica Cream Exfoliant- I used to think the more gritty the texture of my exfoliant that the better it was, and the more it was exfoliating my skin. Wrong wrong wrong! Gritty exfoliants can actually irritate your skin causing dryness and redness by microscopically tearing your skin. So basically doing nothing you want it to do. I use this once a week like a mask. I put it on usually after a shower and leave on for around 15 to 20 mins then wipe off and continue with my normal routine. 

A Few Extras:

7. Laroche Posay Effaclar Duo-I use this at night during times when I feel like my skin needs a little help. It acts as a corrective, unclogging care lotion for imperfections. I tried to use this as a night moisturizer on a regular basis when I first bought it, but didn't work for me since I dry skin. 

8. Avene Eau Thermale- Basically it is just thermal spring water in a can that is used to refresh your face when it's tired or needs moisture. As you can see, I like products that provide moisture. I use this on long plane flights a few times. I feel like it helps my skin look better when I land, and I like to use it in the summer as a refresher after I moisturize. 

Extra Tips:

1. I cannot street this enough...Always take your makeup off thoroughly every night! I know this sounds so silly and something that everyone would know to do. But let's all be honest here. I will raise my hand and say that I have gone to bed before without removing my makeup. It is so important to allow your skin the chance to breath. 

2. Drink Water! Drink as much water as you can. DO IT! Water helps flush out the toxins from your body leaving your skin looking healthy. 

3. Don't wear makeup everyday! I know this can be hard for some, and don't go to your job without makeup on. Whenever you can (even if it is just one day a week) allow your skin time to breath. My skin looked the best when I had mono when I was 18, and didn't wear makeup for 2 months. It was pretty amazing the difference it made! 

I know this was a loooonnnng post (SORRY), but I hope you all enjoyed reading about the products that I love in my skincare routine/tips. I would love to know what products work for you or even what products to never go near. 

STRIPES IN THE SUN

Dress: Tobi (bought last summer but slightly altered)  Shoes: local boutique  Necklace: Charming Charlies

Watch: DKNY  Handbag: Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 in Damier Ebene Nails: Catrice Winter Baby

Today's outfit may not have been the most inventive, but it was definitely the most comfortable. It was one of those days where it was so hot with no breeze whatsoever that you didn't care what you put on. I shouldn't complain...at least Zurich has been getting real summer weather this past week (finally). I just wanted a simple outfit for walking around town and running a few errands with my mom. I will say I've been pretty obsessed with white nails lately. I wasn't sure how I would feel as it was never a color I thought of for my nails, but I am officially converted. It goes with everything and is so fresh looking while remaining chic.  

On a side note...the World Cup starts this week (2 days) and I cannot tell you how excited I am. World Cup summers are always my favorite. There is so much excitement, and everything in Europe centers around the games. Is anyone else excited? If so who are you rooting for? Forza Azzurri

SUMMER GRAFITTI

Shirt: Tobi (old)  Jeans: Celebrity Pink  Shoes: DSW (old)  Purse: Vintage Anniversary Collection Gucci 

Necklace: J Crew  Watch: DKNY  Nails: Catrice Winter Baby

This is a typical summer outfit for me, and an easy-go-to for most occasions. I wear these style of shirts quite often as they add the perfect feminine detail to any outfit, and are pretty comfortable. For these pictures I went to an old factory where graffiti artists are always adding something new. There was even one close by while these pictures were being taken. My mom was trying to convince to ask the guy to be in a picture with me (a little too embarrassing for me). The weather in Zurich has been quite mixed so haven't had much of a chance to bring out my "true" summer items like shorts and dresses. However, this weekend is suppose to be amazing so hopefully I can bring out these items. I LOVE warm weather. If it could be warm year round then I'd be pretty happy. 

My mom was also able to capture some pretty funny outtakes so I thought I'd include one...

I love being home for the summer. Hope everyone is having a good week!

WHEN IN ZURICH...?

For those of you that may not know I have called my Zurich, Switzerland my home for the last six years, and whenever my family leaves I will forever leave a piece of my heart here. I currently don't live in Zurich as I go to college in the states, but I come back for all school breaks. Since, I am here for my last free summer before I start working in the "real world" (I'm going back to school for my final semester this fall, and it doesn't seem real) I want to give all of you the chance to see this city with me.

This type of expat/nomad community I've lived most of my life is an interesting one that I would never trade for anything. I have had some amazing experiences, become such a unique person, and of course have pretty amazing stories from growing up that almost don't seem real. It can be heard at times when you have to leave places you weren't ready to leave or when close friends come in and out of your life. It can be hard trying to adapt to new places so quickly, and explaining your life to those outside of this lifestyle because it is difficult to understand. It's the nomad life, as I call it. And sometimes it makes you realize how truly small our world is when I meet people who I've been to school with in other countries or who know friends from previous international schools. All in all, I couldn't have imagined a more interesting way to grow up, and I hope the same for my children (one day). As always a small rant that might have only made sense to me...If you want to know any information about where to dine, things to see, shopping, the night life, or what it's like to live in Switzerland let me know. I'd be happy to share what I've learned over these past six years with all of you about one of my favorite cities.

CURRENT OBSESSIONS: EDITION 1

As a self proclaimed shopaholic and all around fashion obsessor I think all  the time of different pieces I am searching for or continually find myself obsessing over (ergo my current obsessions). Wow, I hope I used that correctly. Here are some items that I am lusting after for the summer season:

1. White Dresses- I used to think a black dress worked for all occasions- and it does- but there is something so fresh and chic about a plain white dress. I prefer items that can transition from day to night as I often get a late start to my day since I love to sleep in. With a white dress it's a blank canvas where almost anything goes.

2. Bottega Veneta Monogram Collection- I have never been much of a fan of the Bottega Veneta line in the past. I felt there was nothing too special about these handbags and that I could save the $1000+ price tag on something that looked the same for much less. However, adding the monogram entirely changed the perception for me. It adds a unique detail to these otherwise plain handbags, and who doesn't love a good monogram. It's like self advertising. 

3. Drop Waist Dresses- It is a style that is complementary to many different body types. I have always been partial to the skater dress since I don't want dress that are too body hugging during the summer. It's too hot for that. Also there is something so girly yet chic about the drop waist dresses. It almost has a vintage feel.

4. Neon Loafers- LOVE LOVE LOVE...they add the perfect pop of color for neutral outfits. It would go perfect with jeans, chino shorts, white dresses, and the list goes on. I highly suggest the bright loafers from Tod's.

5. Statement Jewelry- This really is a must have and obsession for all seasons for me. As I have said many times and will continue to say I don't see these items going out of style anytime soon. They can transform a plain outfit into something eye-catching. I find myself really going towards the blue statement necklaces lately. Possibly because they would look great against an all white outfit (I seem to have a theme going). 

What are your current obsessions? 

BLOGGIN' BLUES

First off, I just wanted to apologize to those that read my blog for not writing more or trying harder to create the best content for you all. I became busy with school (I just finished by Senior year of college). It never changes. There are always the slew of the end of the year deadlines for papers, presentations, and finals that you can never 100% prepare yourself for. During the end of the year chaos I was moving from my old apartment to a new one since sadly I did not graduate on time. I feared I would have to do everything alone, but luckily my boyfriend flew in to help me, and was pretty much my knight in shinning armor. My parents live in Europe so it's difficult for them to help me with these types of things, especially since after I'm done with finals I fly straight home.

Secondly, I don't want this blog post to come off as me complaining. I'm afraid it's starting to sound whiny. I only want to write in the best of spirits because I would like my writing to reflect my mood, and show my excitement for you all.

I heard the blogging blues (I renamed bloggin' blues)  is a pretty common occurrence. Since I am new to the blogging world this is not something I've experienced before. Basically, my passion for the blog took a downward turn. I want to make the best content for my readers, but felt like I wasn't able to do so. There are so many excuses you create for yourself like I need a better camera to create these professional pictures I see other bloggers have, I have to have the best material to write about, I need to live this exciting life to blog about...and so on and so on. For years I've been reading these amazing blogs, and have always wanted to put my two cents in about fashion, beauty, and all of the things that inspire me. When I finally got my turn I wondered how I was going to live up to these other amazing blogs that are read by thousands since there are so many blogs out there. You write and create these posts, but wonder if anyone is actually reading them. Sometimes, it's hard to write to a computer and receive little or no feedback. It makes one think why am I even doing this if nobody is reading my blog. But, sometime you have to pull yourself out of the slump, and just write. You have to remind yourself of why you started your blog, and that all of those other bloggers started somewhere. You can't have an instant following or instant interaction with your viewers.

Even if nobody is reading this, and I am just writing to myself  (which is quite possible) I am going to do my best to write. I started this blog because I was excited to see the journey it would take me on, and any new opportunities that would come from creating this material. The blogs I've been reading for years, I've seen the creators start from the bottom and now have such wonderful opportunities to do what they love in an interesting way. I wanted a piece of that. Not the recognition necessarily (though that's always an added bonus), but more the chance to do what I love that I might not have otherwise had, and interact with viewers who share a similar passion.

Not so shortly put, I hope you all understand where I am coming from. I promise to try harder in the future to keep this blog up to date, and create interesting content. I hope to do more OOTD posts since I am home with my family for the summer. My mother is my photographer, and there are so many beautiful backdrops at home that I'd love to share. This might have been a little bit of a rant, but let's get back to blogging!

LIPSTICK INSPIRATIONS

MAC Fanfare / NARS Funny Face / MAC Morange

As a self proclaimed lipstick junkie these are some of the lipstick inspirations I am loving right now. I do personally own MAC Fanfare, and have for awhile. It is perfect for everyday, and one of those "your lips but better" color (we all have one!). A creamy pink is the perfect way to describe it. What are some of your favorite lipsticks at the moment? 

ALL LILAC-ED OUT

Leather Tote / Cami /  Pumps/  Dress/  Handbag/ Scarf

For this spring and summer season I have been obsessed with lilac. All things lilac! It took those close to me pointing out everything I had been buying or looking at was this color. There is something so fresh, girly,and versatile about it. I bought a lilac scuba skirt a few months ago from Forever 21, but haven't had much of a chance to wear it due to the not so nice weather until recently. But you better believe it will be a spring and summer staple for me this season. I'm really looking forward to styling it.  

FOLLOW ME ON PINTEREST

In case you did not know I have a Pinterest account where I post all things girly, and that inspire me at the moment. Check it out! Maybe you will be inspired by my pinnings. 

I promise to have more posts soon. You know how it gets at the end of school. All teachers decide to get together and have projects/exams/papers due ALL at the same time. To say these past few weeks have been busy is an understatement. However, I have done some online shopping so expect a haul or OOTD day pictures soon. 

Follow me at pringlesandpump on Pinterest or click the picture to take you to my profile. 

OOTD: CASUAL FRIDAY

First, forgive how pale I am as this year's winter has not been too kind to me. Moving on...Since I am still in college my idea of a casual Friday is probably much different to those who work, and have to worry about remaining office appropriate (which will have to change soon for me). This weekend I drove to Dallas to visit my parents, who are in Texas for a few weeks from Switzerland. Dallas is our "home base" in America, and we try to go back as often as we can. My weekend was spent shopping, relaxing, and eating a lot of Mexican food!

On Friday afternoon my mom and I spent our time at Northpark, the Shops at Park Lane, and finally grabbed  lunch at Bistro N (Nordstrom's restaurant). It might be weird, but we order the same thing every time we go. I guess when you find what you really enjoy why change?! 

Our Order:
- A glass of Sokol Blosser Pinot Gris from Willamette Valley
- Black Forest ham and Gruyere Sandwich


Since it was just a casual day spent shopping I wanted my outfit to reflect that, and it was important to have items that would be easy to take on and off. Nothing is more annoying when you're shopping to be so tired of putting your outfit together that you just give up or buy items without trying them on first. It was so great to feel "normal" and visit my parents this week. What did you all get up to?


Outfit Details:
- J Crew Lace Top (a similar top is on sale right now at J Crew Factory online)
- Forever 21 Nude Cami (under the J Crew shirt)
- Celebrity Pink Jeans
- Cole Haan Suede Ballet Flats
- Louis Vuitton Speedy 35 Damier Ebene
- Charming Charlie Necklace
- DKNY Stainless Steel Watch


This was my first OOTD so feel free to leave any constructive criticism that way I can take better pictures for the future.

SPRING STATEMENT NECKLACES

1. Forever 21 Braided Beaded Ombre Necklace 2. MAWI Embellished Chain Necklace  3. River Island Fluro Yellow Jelly Statement Necklace  4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Staking the Deck  5. Oliver Bonas Festiva Beaded Necklace 

6. Kate Spade Capri Garden Bright Beryl Necklace 7. Vanessa Arizaga Pink Crazy For You Necklace  

One of my favorite parts about spring besides the sunny days and anticipation of the summer are bringing out my brighter statement necklaces. I usually don't follow the rules of wearing certain colors for certain seasons. I buy items for my wardrobe because I want to wear them (as simple as that). However, there are some things that clearly scream spring or summer, and I might look odd if I wore them year round. 

As I have said in a previous post I believe statement jewelry is a staple for any woman's wardrobe, and a trend that seems like it's here to stay. Therefore, I try to buy statement necklaces that don't clearly illustrate one trend. For example the Bubble necklace trend that I did jump on the bandwagon for (probably most of us did), but now feel like I can't wear again. I try to buy pieces that would work with multiple outfits and last longer than a few seasons. My favorite places to buy statement jewelry is J Crew, Etsy, and random boutiques I find in my travels. 

I believe there is no need to break the bank for these pieces (unless you want to). You can easily find statement pieces in your budget, and I actually enjoy the thrill of finding a well made statement necklace for a great price. 

Where do you find your favorite statement jewelry?