The Blondie Boulevard

I'm Kate - your atypical tumblr chick. Kollege kid. Personal style blogger Leather lover, modern minimalist, digital diva. Fun fact: Leading a 100% smartphone-operated blog. You don't need to break the bank to break the internet. Thanks for stopping by! var _uox = _uox || {};(function() {var s=document.createElement("script"); s.src="http://static.usuarios-online.com/uo2.min.js";document.getElementsByTagName("head")[0].appendChild(s);})(); [users online] (function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){ (i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o), m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m) })(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga'); ga('create', 'UA-54745082-1', 'auto'); ga('send', 'pageview');

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Ray-Ban Sunglasses

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Ray-Ban Sunglasses

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All About Skin

Hi, friends! 

I’ve been on a hiatus, busying myself with summer school, photoshoots, and this special project with InstaNaturals to dish to you about how I take care of my skin. 

Being a college student and constantly on the go, between classes and meetings, I completely understand the troubles of finding the time to devote to proper skincare. However, I’ve been better with establishing a skincare routine and definitely recommend one for all of you busy-bees out there. 

My go-to products come from InstaNaturals, a leading skincare line sold exclusively on Amazon and takes the cake for many bestselling products on the site. Best part? The company uses only organic ingredients, avoiding turning your face into a chemical waste plant. 

Without further ado, 5 of my favorite products:

1. Dead Sea Mud Mask | Pure Dead Sea mud mixed with organic oils and aloe vera to nourish dry skin, minimize pores, and leave you squeaky clean. I use it no more than 1x a week to prevent skin irritation. Perfect for blemish-prone or uneven skin. 

2. Vitamin C Facial Toner | I use this product in the morning to energize and hydrate my skin before I apply cosmetics. I love that it comes in a spritzing bottle, so it doesn’t leave my hands messy and saves time in the AM. Although I don’t have large pores, I hear that it’s a wonderful pore minimizer, so I’d definitely recommend it. 

3. Vitamin C Serum for Face | I don’t use this product very much because as a twentysomething, I’m not currently facing the issue of visible signs of aging. However, the powerful antioxidants and oils extracted from organic sources have come in handy in downsizing some facial blemishes.

4. Organic Argan Oil | This is an all-purpose argan oil moisturizer and helps for the upkeep of healthy hair and skin. If you have skin that’s a bit drier than the average, then join the clan. I apply the oil about 30 minutes before bed, letting it soak into my skin, not my pillowcase, and come morning my cheeks feel as smooth as a baby’s bottom. 

5. Vitamin C Moisturizer Cream | Although it’s better known for its anti-aging properties, I use this throughout the day if I’m going bare-faced or at least with no BB cream/foundation. It keeps the moisture locked in and gives my skin an even tone. Sometimes, if I forget the argan oil before bed, then I’ll slab some of this on before applying my makeup. 

Thanks for stopping by and feel free to post your comments/questions below! 

This post was sponsored by InstaNaturals and BrandBacker. All opinions and thoughts are my own. 

[theblondieboulevard]

6.11.15 | Dessert Roadtrip

Hi, everyone!

My dear photographer friends are overseas for the summer, and (as you can imagine) I’m in a bit of a rut - tons of looks are planned, but all I’m left with is a full-length mirror anywhere I can find one - home or, my favorite, the fitting room. Nonetheless, only a week left until another photog joins my team to help me shoot more beautiful photos to contribute to this lookbook. Meanwhile, I’m frantically searching all over Amazon for a tripod and a sticky phone case (holler if you have recommendations!).

Anyhow, let me stop ranting. As you know (or if you didn’t, follow on insta stat!), I recently took a much-needed roadtrip to Georgetown. Since dessert is my favorite meal and something I think deserves it’s own food pyramid, I obviously hit up all most of my favorite sweet stops. Now, I’m spilling the sprinkles on the ones I urge you to go to (or, at the very least, start with). 

1. PAUL This is my all-time favorite Georgetown bakery. It was founded by a French family in 1889 and has been striving strong ever since. It’s authentic French recipes, quality ingredients, and French-speaking staff all make it feel like a flight to France and back from stepping into the door to your first bite. While I love macarons (who doesn’t, amirite?), I recommend broadening horizons by ordering other goodies - like the meringue lemon tarte or the raspberry marzipan cake, for example. 

2. Dolcezza I love gelato. No, no - not the stretchy, overly sweetened mixtures sold at your local grocery store. I’m talking Italian-inspired ice cream (churned right in DC), upon eating which you don’t doubt that what you’re tasting is nature in its sweetest form. That’s what they can put in a cup or homemade cone at Dolcezza. It’s pretty pricy, but with an eccentric array of flavors such as Blood Orange and Peppermint Stracciatella that instantly melt in your mouth and don’t come with any regret at all, you’ll definitely give in. You can also buy pints to keep in your hotel-room freezer to accompany you for your late-night CSI re-runs (purely hypothetical, of course). (Photo: One Good Scoop)

3. Pâtisserie Poupon  I came across this little spot completely by accident when my mom and I were desperately searching for a light snack. It’s, quite literally, a hidden gem. The French-inspired café and bakery has small brioche sandwiches that serve as the perfect in-between-meal snacks and coffee that’s worth the wait. I also really enjoyed their light and fluffy Madeleine cookies, which ended up coming in quite handy on the way home. (Photo: Run In Out)

4. Georgetown Cupcakes Of course, you cannot leave Georgetown with a little pink box of treats that should always contain not one but TWO cupcakes (even if their both for yourself) because, yep, they’re that good. You will most always be stuck waiting in line, no matter how early you got there or how fast you ran. It’s the Apple store of Georgetown treat shops - not necessarily because it’s over-the-moon amazing (although it is delicious), but because they’ve become a US desert staple, completing orders for famous brands and being featured on television. Anyhow, the moist cake and smooth icing combining to form flavors ranging from coconut to birthday cake are definitely better than any I’ve had in my hometown for certain. 

Make sure to pay them a visit and leave some of your own favorite spots in the comments below! Looking forward to see your sweet suggestions.

[theblondieboulevard]

The How-To-Guide on Wearing a Basic Tee

...that’s Handmade, Independent or Otherwise COOL

I’ve got a special guest on the blog today posting about a real issue - the conflict of pairing your basic tee with something that will make it look chic. My special friend at 9th & Elm - Elly Bethune, it’s co-founder - is here to share some helpful tips and awesome tees (which are ON SALE!) that you can get from 9th & Elm today!  -xx, Kate

We all know you can wear a tee shirt with basic leggings or denim, but what are the other cool ways to wear your favorite boyfriend tees and tanks!? I’ve got some ideas that can help you put some outfits together, or recognize some pieces missing in your wardrobe that you need stat! The Sequin Maxi Skirt: Tuck that tee into the maxi skirt and blouse it a little. Also throw on a statement necklace with this look, so it balances out the loud sequin skirt and the tee shirt being so opposite of one another. A statement necklace isn't 100 percent necessary, but see how it looks. Purchase the I Have Nothing to Wear Tee here.

The Leather Mini Skirt: Throw this on with some tall pumps, and girl you are good to go! Leave it tucked in or let it out. I like both the polished and un-clean look here, so try both to see how you feel hotter! Purchase the But First, COFFEE Tee here.

The Cigarette Skinny-Legged Pant: You want to make sure these pants are tight, tight, tight, so the tee shirt is the only thing blousy here. Try it with a crop top, or a regular-fitted tee is perfect with this pant-look. Love it with a POP of color with the heels here. Try the cobalt blue like I did. Purchase the Hide Your Crazy & Act Like a Lady Tee here.

The Accordion Maxi Skirt: Much like how we styled the maxi sequin skirt, you can do the same for this look. Love the POP of color with the accordion maxi skirt here. Think it adds a lot to the tank giving it a dressier look with heals or a dressed down look with nice sandals. This look would also be great with a bright pink lip. Purchase the Wild Spirit Tank here.

The Boyfriend Jean: I love a good distressed boyfriend jean. Make sure to tight-roll those jeans, yes I said tight-roll like the 80’s (roll them high enough so they almost look like a capri skinny jean), and put on some baller heals with this look. Preferably a pump or one with an ankle strap and you could also add a blazer to complete this look. Purchase the Be YOU Tiful Tee here.

The Skater Skirt: This is a great look to have more fun with the tank. Try knotting it to the side or in the back and show a little skin. The bottom is so fun and flirty, why not flirt it up with the top too! Purchase the Drink Russian, Drive German, Wear Italian, Kiss French tank here.

Dressy Shorts: Put away those denim shorts for now ladies and gents, and let’s add a flouncy pair of shorts, or sequin, lace, to add some texture to the tee. While you’re at it, throw on some platform wedges to make sure those legs are looking long and lean! It’s the perfect tee to wear out with the girls to the bar, or out with your man. Purchase the Moon Shine Tee here.

Colored Jeans: It’s spring, after all, which means we need some color in our lives after all that drab black and dark colors in the winter that float around our closet. So let’s add that POP of color with our bottoms. Whether that means jeans or shorts, it doesn’t matter. Whatever you feel like that day, let it shine with your new tee or tank. Don’t have any colored denim, try white jeans too! Purchase the Rock Me Mama Like a Wagon Wheel Tank here.

So stop wearing your tee like everyone else, and let’s jazz it up this spring! But first, you need a cool tee that screams you. Try out these tanks and tees this spring and bring your personality out with not only the top, but the bottoms too.

[theblondieboulevard]

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Lately, I've been sporting the beach-wave messy pony/bun look to give it that extra oomf. While I'm no tutorial champ (and no YouTube because we all know I can talk forever), I've teamed up with kissproducts nonetheless excited to share my tips on how to nail one of my favorite hair looks. 

Okay, so start off with your hair straightened. For me, that's an #iwokeuplikethis look, but some have got to whip out the straightener.

Next - it's time to pull out your favorite curler. I personally recommend a curling wand, specifically the KISS Products InstaWave (#tbbapproved). I love this curler because all the magic happens with just the push of a button, instantly creating as loose/tight of curls as you want without feeling like you've been doing "arm day" for 30 minutes in front of the mirror (totally hypothetical, of course). The InstaWave is really easy to use from any angle, creates tangle-free curls, and features a dope curl dial, meaning that the barrel turns in left/right directions with the push of a button. It also has smart-tech heat settings (low and high), based on how tight you wish the curls to be (think of it as such - the lower, the looser).  The rest of this "tutorial" will continue based on using the InstaWave, although you can TOTALLY follow along if you're using a different curling wand.

Here's the trick - put your straightened hair in a ponytail. I'm usually on the go when I curl my hair, so this is such a time-saver, and prevents me from having to search my whole head for uncurled hairs and getting tangled up in the process.  

Alright - take a inch-section of hair. Hold your InstaWave curler vertically (KEY!). Simply place (or wrap) the hair section on the curling rod, then push the button for left/right, letting InstaWave automatically catch and curl the hair in the desired direction. For beachy waves, hold about 6-7 seconds and then pull the curler down, letting the curl fall out. To keep it natural, make sure you switch directions - this also prevents your hair from looking like one big curl. 

Watch below to get an idea of what I mean:

Keep your curls up in a pony or untie them, but either way running your fingers through. If you got tighter curls than you wished, just brush them out a bit and you'll be right back on track. And now, you look 100% beach-babe certified!

Hope you had as much fun curling as I did sharing this with you! I'd love to see your finished-product photos - share them with me via Instagram / Twitter (#tbbkissmywaves) or send them to me via [email protected]! 

SURFBORT, Kate

Sponsored by KISS Products, Inc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[theblondieboulevard]

In light of yesterday's post (feat. two of my favorite pieces acquired abroad), I've teamed up with oasiscollectionsphotos to be a guest-pinner on their Travel Style Board. Follow along to see my go-to jetset trends, and don't forget to tag your pins with #tbbxocjetset so I can find + re-pin them to the board. And remember, just because you're on a long-hour flight, doesn't mean you have to down-play your style. 

See some of my favorite travel outfits below (also found on the board). 

Happy pinning and here's hoping that I won't get re-addicted!

Cheers, Kate

[theblondieboulevard]

Day 365 , Year 2014

I can't believe it's the end of 2014. While that sounds so glum, I'm actually extremely grateful to where I've come both inside and outside of my blog. 

Above is one of my favorite quotes, and I would be doing you a disservice if I chose not to share it with you. Since revamping my blog in May of this year I've transformed it not into just my personal online journal, but a true blog. This process has brought about loads of learning experiences such as coding, creating a logo and new name, taking time to decide on a theme, diving deeper into the realm of photography and so on. It's been a bumpy ride, but I've managed to keep you all coming back and acquire many sponsors along the way. Shoutout to all of you for reading and for your support!

I believe that it's good for one to fail, as cliché as that may sound. Failures and errors allow you to develop. I'm definitely just starting out this blogger game, as there are others more experienced and better players at this than I. But I'm not stopping there. In fact, I'm currently in the process of transforming TBB into a personal style blog, and I'm beyond excited to bring you my very own online lookbook. I've expanded my team to include my photographer and myself, and together we're curating loads of #OOTD posts that seek to represent no one else's style but my own - because what kind of blogger would I be if I wasn't myself? 

I look forward to disclose all of the new opportunities I have laid out for next year and I can't thank you all enough for sticking around! 

Best wishes for 2015 and Happy New Year! Tell me your NYE plans below or share traditions/recipes/style tips!

See you next year, Kate

[theblondieboulevard]

Merry Christmas, everyone, and best wishes! Enjoy yourselves with the ones you love and may happiness envelop your celebrations xxx

[theblondieboulevard]

Your Holiday Guide | What to Wear this NYE (feat. Elly Bethune) + GIVEAWAY

Finals may be over, but winter break is the busiest time of year. From my CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) courses to assembling last-minute Christmas presents, I feel like I'm on an accelerated merry-go-round that just won't stop. Nevertheless, I'm happy to present to you the post below by a very special guest - Elly Bethune (hint: she's the one in the photos), Co-Founder of 9th & Elm. For those you still in the woods about what to wear for NYE, Elly is here to save the day! 

It’s that time of year again – New Year’s Eve is just around the corner! You know what that means… you start to panic, and think, "I have nothing to wear!" Don’t fret ladies, we’re here to help you put some trendy, yet classic, outfits together!

Chevron Sequin Mini Dress Even if sequins aren’t usually your thing, step outside of the box this season, and try it! You'll shine at the party, and look very on-trend for the season. Not only are sequins hot, hot, hot, but the chevron pattern is extremely popular too. It makes this dress the perfect dress for any holiday party! Put that LBD on hold this year, because let's face it, it has had its turn many times in the past, and this season you’re going to shine! Plus, forgo the jacket, because this dress has sleeves! Pair it with some subtle bling, like the Iceberg Rose Cuff or earrings by Tiffany Rose Designs. Break out some amazing black pumps with this little number - and don't forget about those toes and nails. I would recommend Big Apple Red by OPI. After all, you are stepping outside the box, why not go all the way!

Gold Sequin Long-Sleeve Mini Dress (TBB PICK!) This is the perfect dress if you just want to add a little sparkle this season. The dress is form fitting in all the right places. The material is very stretchy, so it makes it easy to move and, most importantly, dance the night away. The sleeves are full-length, so no worries on a jacket here either! Plus, a jacket would cover up the best part of the dress: the baby sequins that detail the sleeve. Rock this dress with a large cocktail ring, some glitter or sequin heels, and an over sized stud set. I would recommend a metallic gold nail here to compliment the sleeve. All around, if you were invited to only one, or ten, holiday parties this year, this is a must-have for this season.

Poplin Leather Collar Dress Loving the leather trend this season!? Me too! This dress is for the very girly girl, with its poplin collar, tight waist bodice, and a-line bottom frame. But the leather gives it a more cool-feel and accents the dress in all the right places. I would wear black opaque tights with this little number, with an over sized cocktail ring and some killer shoes or booties. This dress would be awesome with a black leather bomber jacket, to give it that little leather extra touch, or a classic black blazer with a roll-up sleeve to add some bangles. And let's not forget the color of the dress: red! Hello! What are you waiting for? You have found the perfect dress, now let's get some black nail polish and call it a day. But not before you do an over sized Carrie Bradshaw bun and smoky-eye to complete the ensemble. Ahhhh...the outfit is now complete. Now go find that prince to keep you company while watching the ball drop. And most importantly, don't forget to seal him with a kiss.

Loved what you saw? I know I did! You can save 10% off your next 9th & Elm order with code COZY10 through January 31st, 2015. Wait a minute - that's not all! I've teamed up with 9th & Elm to give one lucky reader $100 site credit. Winner must reside in the U.S. or Canada, will be randomly chosen and notified on Jan. 2, 2015. Hurry to enter because the giveaway ends on Dec. 31 at 11AM! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck, Kate

[theblondieboulevard]

Scents & Sensibility | Old Factory Candle Review + Giveaway

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Disclaimer: All photos were taken in my dorm, where lit candles are, unfortunately, prohibited. Will update with more pictures soon!*

They say, "A Tuesday well spent continues the week of content," so kick off the typical daze and open your eyes because I'm bringing you another week of excitement on the blog. 

Today I'm sharing my collaboration with Old Factory Candle to tell about AND show you their amazing products! 

Good candles are my weakness, and Old Factory Candle sets are honestly like none that I've owned before. With a dozen sets to choose from, you will understand the difficulty I experienced when you start making the decision yourself. But alas, I fancied the Spa Day set, feat. Cucumber, Lemongrass, and Green Tea (my favorite of the three!)- the three scents sure to set the mood for the ultimate relaxation. 

When I received the three tiny jars, I was misled to think that there's NO way their scent could embrace the entirety of my room. I was shot down, once again. I was instantly teleported to the spa of my dreams without any difficulties of breathing - the scent was so light and airy, yet still definitive. 

GUESS WHAT? You, too, can receive the candle set of your choice by entering my giveaway below! Old Factory Candles are sold exclusively on Amazon.com and are a true bang for your buck (25 of them, to be exact). In exactly one week, I will announce the winner of my current favorite candles. Don't delay - enter today! 

OFFICIAL RULES: You must live in the U.S. to participate in this contest. You must have an Amazon.com account in order to receive your gift certificate for your Old Factory Candle Gift Set. You must also have a PayPal account to be reimbursed for shipping.   

SCENT SETS (with links): New Born Baby, Coffee Shop, Fall Harvest, Fresh + Clean, Happy Holidays, High As A Kite, Man Cave, Romance, Spa Day, Vacation, Winter Wonderland, 50 Shades. 

ENTER BELOW:  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Also enter on Facebook HERE!

Good luck, Kate 

*Sponsored by Red Rover Naturals. The entirety of the review represents my thoughts only.*

[theblondieboulevard]

Good day! 

We've all heard of the sexualization and objectification of women. And if you haven't necessarily heard it, you sure have seen it - from billboards to magazines to films. 

I'm currently enrolled in a women's studies course and, although I didn't think I would enjoy it, I've actually found it quite empowering and interesting, particularly in the sense of our twisted and perverse society norms. No, I'm not your stereotypical feminist, but do I support women's rights and their empowerment? Of course.  

The TEDx talk above by Caroline Heldman was one presented by my TA to bring to the surface the issue of defining a woman strictly by parts, not as a whole. Heldman addresses that current generations have lost the ability to identify this in daily media and advertisements, and I agree. Men, and even women, look at about 5000 advertisements PER DAY, after each of which the lesson learned ends up being: "This is how women should be" and taking the step to finding or becoming the woman depicted. 

However, the problem with this lies in objectification. Media tend to depict the perfect derrière, perfect legs, et cetera, then claiming that these parts will lead to the creation of the perfect woman. In other words, a part can create a whole. 

All in all, women are viewed as a commodity that can easily change hands. However, there are consequences, experienced by women, to such mindset of both men and women. 

One of these effects (and I argue as the most powerful) is body monitoring - that is, constantly taking the time to notice positioning of certain body parts and how you seemingly look to those surrounding you (whether they're looking at you or not). After watching this talk, I was scared to realize that I, in fact, have a problem with body monitoring. Heldman says that, on average, women monitor their own bodies' appearances approximately every 30 seconds. EVERY 30 SECONDS! Imagine that this time, when compiled, could be used for so much more - academic advancement, personal achievements, political activism. Instead, women are kept busy by worrying about the outlook of men on their appearance. Unfortunately, many women, like myself, are unable to concretely pinpoint from what this monitoring stemmed; it's become innate - something women do. Just like applying cosmetics and going to the gym. 

Imagine a woman's lifestyle can change sans self-objectification, self-sexualization, and body monitoring. I say "can" because it's possible to, as Heldman says, use your body as a tool for your personal achievements and developments. While it's easier said than done, it's possible with constant effort.

Men and women, let's focus on what a woman says or does, instead of what she looks like. Let's be active and support a world where one's sexual availability isn't their main quality!

Don't neglect to tell me your thoughts by commenting on this post or shooting me an email! 

"Be the change you'd like to see in the world." - Ghandi

Cheers, Kate 

[theblondieboulevard]

Good morning!

Aside from celebrating my new layout, I’m here to tell you about a cool new app that makes shopping for haute couture that much easier - in fact, it takes only 9 MINUTES! With the variety of shopping tools out there, I never know which one’s reliable and usually end up just avoiding online/smartphone shopping altogether. 

When Peach contacted me, inviting me to join their network, I admit, I was rather skeptical at first, but after some exploring fell in love with the user-friendliness of their application! 

Peach is a live-auction application that holds 9-minute private auctions of designer items. The highest offer wins, but would then only be expected the second highest price. That's unlike any other shopping experience I've seen before, and it certainly crushes eBay in my book! 

Once you located an auction you're interested in, you can "heart" it to receive alerts days, hours, minutes before its inception. So while the 9-minute threshold seems overwhelming, you actually have MUCH more time to decide if that's a product you'd really like to bid on. 

Peach is currently invite-only, but if invited, you have the opportunity to allow your friends to join you! It's super easy - invite a friend with your personal code and they receive $10 in-app credit; once they've tried bidding, you'll get $10, too!

Spread the word to your friends, and be sure to download the Peach app [iPhone + Android]!

Also, scroll through the post photos to see what Peach looks like and check out my favorite picks [especially the gorgeous Cole Haan pink handbag!].

Stay tuned for a special giveaway, where I'll be inviting one special reader to join me in the Peach experience!

Cheers, Kate

*Sponsored by Peach [peachnow]* 

[theblondieboulevard]

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How's it going?

So it's that time where all of us travel gurus start planning where and how we'll be spending the winter holidays. We end up deciding whether to ring in the New Year ice-skating in wintry New York City or soaking in the sun in São Paolo. 

Because I'm aware of the difficulty of this decision, I've teamed up with OasisCollections to bring you five of my must-see locations during a South American vacay - no winter apparel included. 

OasisCollections combines the concepts of travel and lodging in a multitude of South American cities to truly make you feel at home during your stay. Besides a set of keys, your experience includes a one-of-a-kind Members' club network and exclusive perks, all of which are simply meant to better your way of travel. OasisCollections has been featured in top-notch publications such as elle, vanityfair, netaporter, condenasttraveler, and more. All of that was meant to say that I HIGHLY recommend using OasisCollections for your South American travels. 

Without further ado, let's get rolling with this vacation planning, shall we?

1. Pinacoteca Do Estado De São Paulo, Brasil

Being a complete and total art fan (no denial there!), I always seek out new artsy experiences. This one, located in São Paulo, is a total gem! With over 4000 pieces from artists of varying heritage, the Pinacoteca has been deemed significant to its hometown's melting pot historical development. 

2. Machu Picchu, Peru

This magnificence is Peru's most visited site. It's a marvelous example of architecture perched on a high plateau, located in the Amazonian jungle. Trust me, the view is worth the trip and so is snapping a photo with an adorable llama (and maybe taking it home?)! (Photo: Travel Channel)

3. Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia

This is the biggest salt flat in the world. This is also a perfect spot for all sort of photo possibilities, since the sky and land blend together. The Surrealists would be so proud. (Photo: Buzzfeed) 

4. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos are absolutely breathtaking for obvious reasons, but also because the preservation of nature is its TOP priority. This allows for the a human-interaction that is both fun for people and harmless for the native creatures. Science fanatic or not, you have G O T to see this for yourself! (Photo: Expeditions)

5. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

What? There are glaciers in South America? Yep, you read that right! The Perito Moreno is on my list as an unconventional South American site (or at least one that doesn't come to mind right away) and one that still manages to capture the absolute beauty of the land. The Perito Moreno is actually growing and you can actually witness huge pieces breaking off. While I did promise you a winter-coat-free vacation, you might need a jacket for this one, but, trust me, it's oh-so worth it! (Photo: Buzzfeed)

South America is an area of extremely unique sites and landmarks, and I hope you take advantage of OasisCollections during your stay! 

Cheers, K / W / T

[theblondieboulevard]

With merely days left until Halloween, not much time is left to decide whose persona you will embody. I've curated five costumes to show you that you've been looking at your closet through the wrong pair of shades. 

Shirt | Skirt | Tights | Booties | Earrings | Hat | Umbrella | Bow-tie

With its already present preppy chic / business casual, you're 90% there in becoming Mary Poppins. Add a bow-tie and an oversized black umbrella to instantly transform into the beloved Disney nanny. 

Top | Jacket | Leggings | Sneakers | Beanie

Take on this year's most-talked-about infant starlet with an head-to-toe, black off-duty look and a hint of lace. And, remember, you can't step out as Nori without leather, studded high-tops and a classic leather jacket. 

Tee | Leggings | Slip-ons | Phone case | Headband

Throw off the 'basic' cat costume with a graphic tee and kitty slip-ons [in love with the 3D whiskers!]. Every cat needs ears, of course, but if you're not digging the headband option, change it up with a beanie with sewn-in cat ears. 

Top | Leggings | Sneakers | Earrings | Necklace | Snapback | Sunglasses

Add a braided wig [or simply curl your hair], slip on your snapback backwards, and you have now been christened as "2 Chainz." Get really into it with a set of golden grillz and don't forget the two chains. 

Robe | Shoes | Beanie | Phone case | Mascara | Lipstick | Eye liner | Sleep mask

Be the queen of the #IWOKEUPLIKEDIS look with a few sleepwear pieces. But make sure you look as #FLAWLESS as possible, darlin' - because 'perfect' is how you always wake up in the morning, right? 

Are you convinced that your closet officially became a costume shop? Enjoy these looks, and don't forget to tweet/instagram your photos with #TBBHalloween. I look forward to seeing your costumes!  Cheers, Kate 

[theblondieboulevard]

Good morning!

It’s already Thursday, which means time flies like it’s nobody’s business!

It’s been quite the midterm madness lately, so I’ve been a bit MIA. However, I’ve got a number of exciting new opportunities, which I’m looking forward to feature on the blog.

Also, Halloween’s next week! Stay tuned next week for my top five go-to last minute costumes!

Cheers, Kate

[theblondieboulevard]

How's it going, everybody? We're switching things up a bit on the blog today, and I'd like to throw up a cheers to a new start-up of mine (thanks to my dear friend, Alex, for the pitch!) - 4 Ways to Wear. Every two weeks, I'm hoping to showcase a trend or clothing item, as per your requests, and show you how to wear it 4 different ways! If you have something specific in mind, don't hesitate to shoot me an email via [email protected]! 

I've recently acquired a new pair of ankle boots (Lucky Brand Tolache Suede Boots | On sale at saksoff5th here., and after this Instagram post, I've been asked, "I'm crushing on a pair of ankle boots, but how do I wear them?" Not to worry - keep reading to find out how you can rock this fabulous fall trend!

As we're easing our way into autumn, pairing boots with a white cropped+collared top and pastels gives a feminine, classic look. I'm especially a huge fan of the blush- and baby-blue-toned coat trend and topping it off with a structured wool hat. This look allows you to be warm, but still get the chance to be kissed by the sun rays. Wear this to brunch with your friends or a coffee run with the bae!

[Top / BB Dakota coat / Jeans / Lucky Brand boots / Purse / Hat]

Give your ankle boots a bit of edge by pairing it up with a (p)leather dress and military jacket. Tone down the minimalism and up the 'cool-girl' vibe with a bib necklace - a must-try trend in my book - and maybe add a beanie with stitched lettering on the front (check out Etsy or Forever21). Grab a small crossbody or clutch, and take this look for a night on the town - drinks with the girls or maybe even a house party.  [Dress - similar here / Jacket / Lucky Brand boots / Purse / Necklace]

  Leather is by far one of my favorite materials - and I wear it all the time (not just this season). Pair some sleek (p)leather pants with a cowl neck sweater, add ankle boots, and voila! You have now concocted the recipe for the third way to rock your boots! Garnish it with a trendy bucket bag and some accessories, if you wish.  [Sweater - only $16! / Pants / Lucky Brand boots / Bucket bag - similar here / Watch / Earrings]

    If Fashion Week was something I was able to attend, I'd definitely put this combination in my repertoire. Again, my love for pastels reappears, as does my tremendous fancy for eye-catching, trendy details (such as the beadwork on the skirt and cut-out cat-eye sunglasses). I'd like to stress that ankle boots aren't strictly casual shoes - you're not creating a faux-pas by slipping them on with a skirt or dress! [Jumper - similar here / Skirt / Lucky Brand boots / Handbag / Phone case / Sunglasses]

I hope this was helpful, in terms of tackling and rocking ankle boots. Since I got my pair, I can't seem to take them off. They feel as if luckybrand specifically had my feet in mind when creating this pair. I wear them with almost everything and encourage you all to do the same! 

Send me some feedback on the post and/or tell me how you rock your ankle boots this season. Email me via [email protected] and hashtag your ankle boots Instagram posts with #TBBTRENDWATCH so that I can spot (AND LIKE!) your photos! 

Let the boot bash begin!

Cheers, K / W / T