Outfits Inspired by Blake Lively/Serena van der Woodsen

*Ah I found this post saved in my drafts. I meant to publish it during back-to-school season but somehow never got around to it. So rather than let it go to waste, I'll just post it here. The outfits are definitely wearable for spring and even for winter if you live somewhere warm :)

If I were to name the perfect girl, I would name Serena van der Woosen without hesitation. Even though she's a fictional character, she epitomizes perfection. Beautiful. Kind. Polished. Smart. Even her name exudes glamor (who wouldn't want the name Serena van der Woodsen?).

In the TV series, Serena is played by leggy blonde bombshell Blake Lively. Now, I think Blake is by far one of the most beautiful actresses in the industry. Not only is she gorgeous, she also seems like a genuine person. Friendly, bubbly - and unlike her younger castmate Taylor Momsen - she actually seems like a decent role model.

I admit, usually I dislike super pretty people because I'm so jealous of them. Like Emma Watson (umm she gets Harry Potter, Burberry ads, and Brown University) and AnnaLynne McCord (who is gorgeous and dating Kellan Lutz from the Twilight series). However, Blake Lively is someone I can't even not like because she's just that perfect.

In an interview, Blake admitted that her real-life wardrobe much resembles her character's wardrobe in the show. I think I can safely say on behalf of 99% of girls that we would all die for Serena's clothes. But unfortunately, not all of us have moms who are Upper East Side social climbers and stepbrothers who own large portions of New York real estate. Below are some fall back-to-school looks inspired by Serena that won't put a hole in your wallet.

Rain, Rain Go Away

Old Navy Womens Twist-Neck Racerback Tanks, $7.99 Emily Skull Burnout Vest, $9.99 Floral Mini Skirt - Teen Clothing by Wet Seal, $20 View All - Heels - Shoes - Topshop USA, $135 Stud Side Leather Satchel Bag, $125 Bold Chunky Studded Resin Bangle (Black) - Catwalk 2010, 60 GBP Art Deco Sterling Silver & Faux Emerald Earrings at Past Times, 20 GBP Clear Dome Umbrella | Pieces, $20 Blake Lively | Celebrity-gossip.net

Autumn is to me like a frenemy: I can't decide whether I like it or not. On one hand, it gives me an excuse to break out those bronzed riding boots, don on chic scarves, and sip apple cider at an outdoor cafe. On the other hand, it's means unpredictable weather, piles of homework, and the impending arrival of winter.

In Chicago, fall is rainy season. Days are frequently gloomy and wet. But just because the sky is gray doesn't mean your mood has to be. In this bright little outfit, all eyes will be on you as you prance through the rain.

First, the citrus floral skirt captures the essence of leaves on the forest floor of a sunny October day. The bright turquoise tank adds a pop of color while the open navy cardigan makes the outfit more fall-appropriate. Since there's already plenty of color in the outfit, choose neutral accessories: nude bag and pumps are perfect. Contrast the nude pieces with a dark bangle adorned with metal studs to add some edge to the feminine outfit.

Finally, an umbrella is essential to keeping your hair mess-free and your outfit polished. Opt for a deep, clear one as opposed to the usual flat, colored ones that people carry. The deep cap offers more protection from the wind and rain while the clear material allows you to see and be seen.

Winter Lace

Samantha Shirt, $99 Women's blazers - wool - Navy schoolboy blazer - J.Crew, $188 Jonathan Aston Net Stripe Tights, $3.38 Lace Print Shorts, $65 Tylie Malibu Runaway Simone Mini Cross-Body, $287 Jersey Infinity Scarf, 18 GBP Chinese Laundry Turbo Over-The-Knee Boots | nitrolicious.com Blake Lively | Celebrity-gossip.net

This outfit is targeted towards those late fall days when it almost feels like winter. First, knee-high boots are hot this fall and has been for the past few years. But rather than wearing these lovely gray suede ones bare-thighed or with tights, pair them with some lacy tights. It keeps the look cold-weather appropriate yet adds some sexiness to the otherwise conservative outfit.

In the picture, Blake is wearing dark wool shorts. However, I chose these lacy print ones to add some more girliness to the whole look. Same with the blazer - I opted for a fitted blazer rather than a woolen boyfriend blazer like the one seen on Blake, which is just a touch too masculine for my taste.

Finally, allow a neutral feminine tank to peak out from underneath the blazer and keep your neck warm with an infinity scarf. A dark blue or turquoise one works great with the maroon tights. Finish off the outfit with a studded messenger bag and you're good to go!

Street Chic

Old Navy Womens Twist-Neck Racerback Tanks, $7.99 Lucky Brand Service Jacket, $99 Mid-rise slim-leg jeans, $89 Charlotte Russe - Slouchy Double Buckle Flat Boot, $50 Purse Boutique: Brown Patent Croco ''Alma'' Tote Purses, $45 Cecilia Vintage Plaid Scarf, $30 Blake Lively | Celebrity-gossip.net

This outfit is perfect for running errands or on any other cool autumn day when you will be doing lots of walking. Plus, it's composed of staples that are incredibly versatile and work for many other outfits. What you need are a simple white tank, dark pencil jeans that aren't too skinny, military boots, a brown woolen scarf, and a fitted cargo jacket.

This look epitomizes effortlessness yet is still stylish at the same time. While I would usually recommend accessorizing with something bright to add a pop of color, I think keeping everything neutral works in this case because the pieces are all of varying hues - blacks, whites, greens, browns. Therefore keep things simple with a roomy brown bag.

This comfortable outfit is just an invitation to go out and get moving. I think it's perfect for exploring a new neighborhood in your college town, volunteering at a soup kitchen or animal shelter, or helping your club pass out fliers on the street.

Touch of Gold

Aubin & Wills Striped cotton tank, $70 Aqua Chambray Boyfriend Blazer, $40 Devo Skirt, 165 GBP havaianas thin sole rubber foam flip-flop SLIM, 26 CAD Juicy Couture 'Brogue - Duchess Small' Chain Trim Shopper, $398 Antique White Floral Shell & Pearl Cuff Bracelet (Silver Tone), 9 GBP Blake Lively with Penn Badgley | Celebrity-gossip.net

This outfit is the perfect fall date-look (sorry Penn Badgley, had to cut you out to make room for the pieces). Imagine yourself taking a walk on a beautiful fall day with a boy-toy on your arm.

To recreate this outfit, pair a striped beige tank (which most college gals already own) with a gold sequined mini (a wardrobe staple as it can be toned down for a day look like this and is perfect for a night out). Throw on a lazy boyfriend blazer - preferably acid-washed rather than something too dark as the whole look is supposed to be very relaxed.

Since you've already got the "glam" in the outfit with the sequined mini, keep everything else simple. Neutral flip-flops, a chestnut tote, and a brown floral bangle adds the perfect touch. Now all you need is that cute boy on your arms (sorry, this one I can't help with!).

Attention Getter

Whirl & Wind Cardigan, $88 Image Account Shorts, $72 Gathered Ribbon Slot Bralet, $36 SteveMadden - MANQUE ICE LEATHER women's tailored dress tailored..., $100 Marc by Marc Jacobs - Franny tote (Peacock) - Bags and Luggage, $498 Acadian Tapestry Journal (Notebook, Diary) (Small Journal)..., $8.99 Blake Lively | Celebrity-gossip.net

Have you ever felt, well, invisible? Like cabs aren't stopping for you, or nobody seems to hold the door?

Well, this outfit will solve your problem. In the picture, Blake is clearly hailing a cab - and which cabbie can miss her? To recreate this outfit, the most important thing you need is color. I opted for a bright yellow cardigan rather than a cropped vest like Blake's to make the look more wearable (do a cropped vest wrong and you'll like like a stripper, and that's not the type of attention you want). To prevent the cardi from looking bulky but also to prevent too much cleavage from showing, wear a bralet in a nude shade - bralets are super versatile and can fix many wardrobe problems.

Choose a pair of high-waisted shorts to complement the cropped cardi. Opt for a pair of neutral school-girl loafers (you don't want too much color) to keep the look school-appropriate. Finally, an azure tote is a great complement to yellow. If you can't find a bag of this shade, a bright green one would look equally good.

Finally, don't forget your notebooks! You're guaranteed to be the best-dressed chick in class.

Back To School Series: Dorm Essentials and Decoration

It's back to school season again, and while that usually means stocking up on school supplies and begging your parents for a new wardrobe, college life requires shopping for a whole new category: dorm supplies.

Below are some dorm essentials that will make your room much more fabulous. After all, a stylish college girl needs a stylish place to call home.

When it comes to things like curtains and wall decal, make sure to discuss things with your roommate first. You don't want to show up with pink curtains and rugs and find out that your roommate hates that color.

Bedding

When it comes to dorm shopping, I'd say the most important thing is your bedding. After all, in a tiny 10x11 dorm shared by two people, there's not much space for much else besides beds and desks.

Most colleges require Twin XL sized bedding, which are actually quite easy to find, especially during back-to-school season. There's no reason to settle for a drab gray set. Plenty of places like Target and PBTeen offer a wide variety of bedding sets. Whether your style is preppy, girly, sporty, or simple, there's sure to be something that fits your liking.

When it comes to bedding, terminology sometimes can get a bit confusing. So here is a quick breakdown:

Flat Sheet - As the name suggests, this is just a plain sheet. The good thing about using a flat sheet instead of a fitted sheet (see below) is that a Twin flat sheet would also work on a Twin XL bed, thus increasing your options. Also used as a layer of separation between you and the comforter to keep the comforter clean.

Fitted Sheet - A sheet with four corners that wrap around the mattress. If you bed is a Twin XL, you must get a twin XL fitted sheet as a Twin fitted sheet would not work. Advantage of them is that a fitted sheet stays in place much better, making it much easier to make your bed.

Comforter - This is the typical "blanket" that you would see on a bed. It's basically a case filled with some type of feather.

Duvet - Technically the same as a comforter, although many people refer to duvets as duvet covers, which is a case over your comforter (much like a pillowcase) that keeps your comforter clean.

Pillow Case - As the name implies, a protective case for your pillows.

Sham - A decorative pillow case.

Mattress Pad - A plain, thin padding that goes over your mattress, making it feel softer to sleep on.

When it comes to selecting a bedding, I would strongly suggest you to stray away from white and black. Both colors stain very easily - white from juices, black from drools (I know, gross) and deodorant. Pick out something colorful like lavender, lemon, pink, or green. Bright colors can brighten your mood and make those gray winter days much less dreary.

Also, invest in a duvet cover to protect your comforter. Trust me, your bed will get dirty. In college, you'll most likely eat in bed, study in bed, friends will come over and sit on your bed, etc. Comforters require dry cleaning, so get a cover for it, which is much easier to wash.

Lastly, get some fluffy decorative pillows. Not only will they be heavenly to sleep on and make your bed look pretty, they'll also come in handy for pillow fights with the girls.

Wall Art

Dorm walls are quite...boring. Since you're not allowed to paint it in your favorite shade, at least put up some wall decor to brighten it up. Below are some ideas:

Small Mirrors - Small, decorative mirrors are great for adding a personal touch to your walls. Since you can't use pins and poke holes in the walls to hang things up, invest in some removable wall tape. Mirrors can make your room appear bigger and are great for makeup and hair touch-ups.

Photos - Go to your local Walgreens and print out your favorite pictures of you and your friends and family. Tape them up near your bed or your desk when you get to college. They'll remind you of the great memories you've had these past several of years when you start missing home.

Hooks - There are tons of decorative hooks that can be attached to your walls using removable wall tape. Not only will they look pretty, they are also very functional for hanging up bags and cardigans.

Posters - This is the stereotypical college decor. Hang up a poster of something that you love or inspires you - whether it's Mozart, a beautiful scenery, or Taylor Lautner's abs.

Wall Decal - Sticky wall decal comes in a wide variety. Decorate your walls with ledger lines that come with customizable music notes or a tree with birds that you can place anywhere to your liking.

Lighting

Lighting fixtures are essential for decorating your dorm. Not only will you need a good desk lamp for studying at night, you should also get some colorful lighting to spice up the space at night.

I personally love the pink iHome lamp from JR.com, which doubles as a lamp, pencil organizer, and iPod player.

For mood lighting, go with colored string lights that you can hang on the walls or a traditional lava lamp. Colored lamp shades also create great lighting, a mini strobe light is perfect for parties, and there are colored light bulbs out there that can make your room glow in a plethora of shades.

Decorative Rugs

Some dorms lack carpeting, so some cushiony throw rugs are essential. After all, who wants to step on cold, hard linoleum during the winter?

Pick out something in a bright or dark color - anything but cream or white - since you're floor will most likely get very dirty. Also, rugs can get kind of expensive. Don't invest in a pricey one as drinks and food will get spilled on it. Get something cheap and invest in a high quality one after you get your own apartment.

Bathroom

This section only applies if you have your own private bathroom (which is such a blessing to have!). You'll definitely want a shower caddy to carry all your shampoo, face wash, and body wash because you're shower is going to be very small, so you can't leave bottles in there. A shower caddy/basket is even more essential if you're sharing a public bathroom since you'll have to carry all your stuff through the halls.

Other bathroom accessories include rugs (which will keep your floors nice and dry), pretty shower curtains to spice up the place, and toothbrush holders (I love these animal ones from Urban Outfitters - they come in a variety of fun shapes like panda and elephant and have suction cups that stick to mirrors and other surfaces!). Also, I find it important to have a brush holder to keep all my makeup brushes clean and organized.

Finally, get a covered trashcan. You can't go wrong with something like the adorable strawberry trash can above. It'll keep dirty tampon applicators out of sight.

Window Treatment

College dorms generally come equipped with standard blinds. These plain, cream colored shades can be quite dull. And of course, being the fashionable college chick that you are, you're room should be anything but drab! Get some frilly curtains in a warm color - pink, tangerine, yellow, or violet. Blinds are easily removable and you can hang up the curtains. When the light shines in, your room will look instantly lovelier.

Just be sure to keep the original blinds and replace them back at the end of the school year. Otherwise you'll be charged a hefty fine for "damaging dorm property", even if it's totally remodeling for the better.

Organizers

Finally, because dorm rooms are so tiny, it's important to utilize every inch of space. Below are some clever space-saving tools that can quadruple your wardrobe and keep things organized.

Cascading Hangers - I absolutely cannot live without these. These hangers come in a wide variety - for pants, skirts, tops, etc. They seriously quadruple the size of your teeny dorm closet.

Bed Risers - These are great for increasing the height of your bed, allowing you to store stuff underneath. At some colleges, the beds themselves can be raised super high, allowing you to fit your desk and chairs underneath, leaving a much bigger open space.

Over-the-Door Organizers - Over the door organizers are hung over your closet door, allowing you to store shoes, jewelry, etc.

Hooks - Hooks can be great space savers. I hang my towels, scarves, belts, and handbags on hooks that stick to the wall.

Finally, most dorms offer a storage room in the basement. So if you have extra out-of-season stuff you don't need, ask your Resident Head if you can use the storage space.

Back To School Series: Social DO's and DON'Ts

DO: Be nice to everyone right from the beginning.

The first day of college is absolutely essential in determining your social life for the rest of the year. Be open and friendly right when you arrive at your dorm to get things started on the right foot. Even if you are tired or grouchy, don't show it. Otherwise you might forever be seen as the bad-tempered girl who thinks she's all that.

DO: Establish ground rules with your roommate.

Obviously, don't do this immediately after you two meet (or you will come off as a a bossy tight-ass), but on day 2 or 3, after the initial, "Oh my gosh we're gonna be such great roommates!", set some ground rules with her.

You two need to establish rules about bring boys over, coming in late in the middle of the night, playing music, etc to avoid conflicts as the school year goes on. Also, set a cleaning schedule so your dorm doesn't become a total pigsty.

DO: Go out on your first nights.

Frats pretty much always throw parties on freshmen move-in day and they're generally free, so take advantage of that. It'll be a lot of curious and inexperienced freshmen - many who are drinking for the first time - so there will be lots of making out and throwing up.

If drinking and partying isn't your scene, check out some school sponsored events. Most schools offer concerts or shows on the first few nights. Some clubs may also host info sessions and social gatherings.

Whatever the case, just make sure that you go out there and socialize during those first couple of days. Don't sit in your room while people are running around and laughing in the halls. Plus, there's nothing worse than realizing that everybody in your dorm seems to have become BFFs overnight while you still don't even know anyone's name.

DON'T: Bring up sensitive topics in conversation.

This includes everything from race to gay marriage to the use of stem cell technology. Don't run the risk of offending someone on your first few days. Since college is a mixpot of people from all kinds of background, something that you discuss with friends back home might make someone at your college very uncomfortable.

DON'T: Use swear words.

This is something that applies for everyday life - a classy girl should never swear. However, we all have our bad habits. If you have a dirty mouth, be sure to watch yourself during those first few days of college. Some people might find swearing very offensive.

Plus, you don't want to come across as having bad manners or a bad upbringing. There are few things worse that a beautiful, well-dressed girl with a sailor's mouth.

DON'T: Be "That Girl" at the party.

The girl that's in stripper heels, layers or eyeliner, and a butt-bracing, low-cut dress. The girl who is dirty dancing on the table flashing everyone with her hot pink underwear. The girl taking shots, shots, shots, shots and then making out with the juiced-up frat guy. The girl who ends up throwing up everywhere.

Yeah, don't be that girl. Drink responsibly and if you don't know your limits, slowly find that limit. For a 120 lb girl, try to have no more than one drink per hour (one drink = 1.5 oz hard liquor or a can of beer). Oftentimes, it takes an hour or two for the alcohol to hit you. Don't get the reputation of the "easy" girl or the one who can't handle her liquor.