A Day at the Park

How often do you take a break from retweeting your favorite tweets, liking all your friend's pictures or snapchatting your every move? Remember what it's like to enjoy the company of another person or even better- venture outside and enjoy natural light and fresh air? Yesterday I took advantage of the beautiful, super gorgeous weather we had here in Kansas City. My boyfriend and I ventured down to a few of my favorite childhood spots, Loose Park and Mill Creek Park. We walked around hand in hand, and I must say, the environment was peaceful and refreshing. It was nice to admire beautiful scenery in person rather than scrolling through someone else's life on tumblr or Facebook. It's definitely something I want to do more often. My city has so much beauty and I want to experience as much of it as possible!

This perfect springtime weather inspired me to dress up, sporting flirty florals and bright colors. Check it out below!

Get the look: Top // Skirt // Shoes

Summer Dress Style

Dresses are definitely my favorite thing to wear during the spring and summer. See how I style some of my fave dresses in this video!

Bohemian Belle

I LOVE bohemian style. I love the earthy, free-spirited, natural look and feel of it. Lace, earthy colors, lots of layers, it's just so fun! Think Vanessa Hudgens, Nicole Richie, Coachella fashion, etc... The bohemian ensembles I admire are cool, relaxed and effortless. You can literally just experiment and keep layering and I think that's what makes it so fun! The more eclectic, the better! Boho-style is the perfect way to show off your favorite textures, patterns and colors, all in one outfit! I've put together four super cute boho-chic outfits to shop for this season! Check 'em out! Which one is your favorite?

Daisy Top // Denim Shorts // Daisy Necklace // Feather Necklace

Glasses // Booties // Daisy Headband // Fringe Purse

Flower Headband // Bracelets // Floral Top // Necklace // Sandals // Shorts

Blue Necklace // Lantern Necklace // Pendant Necklace // Moon Necklace

Tank // Maxi Dress // Head Chain // Sandal // Gold Bangles

Dress // Cardigan // Flower Headband // Stone Necklace

Elephant Necklace // Charm Bracelet // Disc Necklace // Coral Bracelet // Sandal

Want It Wednesday

Spring is soon approaching and we all know what that means... Time to give that closet a good spring cleaning! Out with the old and in with the new! Lately I've been pretty bored with my wardrobe. The winter blues have sucked me in and I am beyond ready for the sunshine, chirping birds and bright flowers to wake me up and get my fashion senses tingling. Spring is just my favorite season! It's my birthday month, it starts getting warmer, flowers start growing, there's spring break -what is there NOT to love about spring? It represents new beginnings and a new beginning is exactly what my closet needs. I've been searching around and I found some pieces that I'd love to add to my closet in the coming weeks. I'm looking forward to my spring shopping spree and giving my closet a fresh, new feel. Details about the items I'm loving right now are below, and as always, links are included so you guys can check out each piece! What are you all looking forward to this spring? Are there any trends or specific pieces that you're excited about?

1. Floral Flare Dress, $17.48, Target - One of my favorite things about spring is definitely floral prints. This dress is super girly and the mesh print makes it super flirty. Love!

2. Denim Skirt, $19.95, H&M - This denim skirt could be the perfect edgy addition to the right feminine top. The dark wash is perfection.

3. Lace Front Tank, $17.99, Target - What's a girly girl without her lace? This lace front top is all I need to show off my femininity. 

4. Maxi Skirt, $50.00, River Island - This maxi skirt is so cute! Especially because it's my favorite color, coral pink!

5. Dotted Blouse, $17.95, H&M - This dotted blouse is so adorable! I don't own very many polka dotted garments but this one definitely makes me want to start! It would look tres cute paired with a cute skirt, maybe that coral maxi skirt? ;)

6. Oxford Flat, $39.99, Shi - You can't go wrong with oxfords!

7. Denim Handbag, $14.99, Target - I love this Exhiliration handbag. Denim is such a staple.

8. Pink Wedge Shoe, $29.90, Urbanog - This flirty wedge would give my shoe collection a refreshing update. The soft pink color is super cute!

9. Faux Leather Satchel, $19.80, Forever 21 - Mustard yellow is one of my favorite colors. This handbag wears the color well.

10. Aviators, $5.80, Forever 21- Believe it or not, I don't own a pair of aviator glasses. I love the classic feel of them and I definitely am going to grab myself a pair this spring!

11. Circular Floral Skirt, $14.95, H&M - Like I said above, I love floral prints! I love the flirtatiousness of this skirt!

12. Leopard Boat Shoes, $23.20, Urbanog - I haven't jumped on the boat shoe wave, but this wild pair has got me sold! Tres cute!

The Denim Skirt

What a flashback, right? Denim skirts were super popular in the earlier 2000s. When I was in 5th grade I had a light blue mini pleated denim skirt that I loooved! I don't know about you guys, but after around 2008 I started to see them fade away. I seriously haven't seen anyone in a jean skirt in forever. However, as I was looking at my favorite online retailer's websites a few days ago, I noticed a very... short, blue trend. I was seeing denim skirts everywhere! Are denim skirts making a comeback? Did they ever leave? What do you guys think? Could you see yourself rockin' a jean skirt? After seeing a few of these pieces, I definitely can see myself in one of them! This is for sure one trend I'll be following! Details about where to find these hot denim skirts below!

1. Acid Wash Mini Skirt, $13.80, Forever 21

2. Denim Look Tulip Skirt, $44.00, Topshop

3. Acid Wash Pencil Skirt, $32.93, ASOS

4. Overtime Skirt, $58.00, Nasty Gal

5. Denim Ripped Pelmet Skirt, $41.40, ASOS

6. Leopard Flip Skirt, $68.00, Topshop

7. Chambray Circle Skirt, $59.00, Urban Outfitters

8. High Waisted Denim Look Skater Skirt, $15.00, Topshop

9. Moto Stripe Denim Skirt, $64.00, Topshop

Message Monday

I love this quote by the great Orson Welles. It definitely takes time to develop your own personal style and find out what works and doesn't work for you, but once you get there, it is so important to OWN it. Sure, there are fashion "rules" and style do's and don'ts that play an important part of what we choose to wear, but that doesn't mean we have to sacrifice our uniqueness and individuality. Give people something to talk about, give them something to remember. Figure out what makes you, YOU and go with it!

Flashback Friday

Who remembers the bubble backpack?! In second grade I had a coral pink one from Lip Smackers (it came as a gift with a book order) (REMEMBER BOOK ORDERS?!) and I loooved it! I was the only girl in my grade at the time with a bubble backpack and I thought it was the best thing ever. On today's Flashback Friday I'm looking at how these inflatable carryalls have made a comeback! I was browsing on ASOS.com and I came across these bags and I was like OMG! As you can see the Lizzie McGuire reference above, I was having some serious flashbacks. It's surprising to see that these bags are actually making a comeback. I would definitely rock one. What do you guys think? Would you bring back the bubble backpack?

Bubble Backpack, $28.23, ASOS.com

Message Monday

I love this quote from Whitney Houston. In no way am I agreeing with the statement that men can't wear dresses. It's 2014 - to each his/her own. However, in a society where women are constantly being criticized, nitpicked at and told over and over again what we "SHOULD" be and what we "CAN'T" be, Whitney lets us know that although it's "a man's world", women are still capable of the same or even greater accomplishments than men. She lets us know that women are limitless in our abilities. I attend a women's college and I take great pride in the fact that I am surrounded by so many ambitious, creative, intelligent, driven young women who want to succeed in life and break barriers just like me. As a young woman it's important to remember that the world is yours. Never let anyone tell you what you CAN'T do simply because of your gender. GIRL POWER!

Aeropostale Mini-Haul

Money Sign V-Neck Graphic Tee, $10.00, Aeropostale

Ponte Pleated Zip-Back Skirt, $32.70, Aeropostale

No Hard Feelings V-Neck Graphic Tee, $10.00, Aeropostale

Bayla Skinny Dark Wash Jean, $20.00, Aeropostale

The Trendblazer Is On Twitter!

Yes, you read that right! The Trendblazer is now on Twitter! Don't worry, I'm not abandoning my blog- my Twitter page will be just another way for me connect with you guys, as well as get my content out there! Follow, follow, follow, and spread the word! I am super excited for what The Trendblazer has in store in the coming weeks and I just want to thank everyone who takes out time to look at what I have to say! I appreciate it all, and with that being said, feel free to leave comments on my posts, guys! I would love to hear what you all think! If you have any topics you'd like to see me write about, let me know! I'm going to start exploring new topics for more diverse content and I'm open to new ideas! Stay tuned!

Snow Day!

Everyone loves a good snow day, right? Today in Columbia, MO and all of the Midwest, it decided to snow like CRAZY! With that being said, I've been confined to my room all day. This isn't all bad, though. I was able to get some blog business accomplished, (I'll update you guys soon!) as well as show some much needed attention to my nails! Between going to school and work, I hardly ever have time to sit down and polish my nails, so I took full advantage of that today. I chose one of my favorite lacquers that was given to me as a gift by my older sister. It's called Did It On Em and it's from the Nicki Minaj collection with OPI. I LOVE the vibrant lime green hue! I know it's not quite Spring yet, but with all this Wintery white snow around me it's nice to have a nice pop of color right at my fingertips! Do you ladies have any polishes in the Nicki Minaj OPI collection? Also what's your favorite nail color and why?

Message Monday

This powerful quote by Oscar de la Renta inspires me to hold my head up, stick my chest out and go conquer the world. I know that sometimes I'm guilty of getting so caught up in my bad moods and all of my daily stresses so much that confidence, strength and empowerment goes right out the window. However, it's vital not to let the bad things get you down for long. Confidence is a must. If you go through life with your head down you'll miss so many opportunities simply because you were too scared to be confident, hold your head up and pursue them. Chin up, give em something to talk about!

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Roses are red, violets are blue... Valentine's Day is coming up, what's a girl to do? I am super excited  to shop for my guy this year! For all you other gals out there that still need to get gifts, I've created the perfect gift guide for each stage in the relationship and for each type of guy! Also, all of the items are under $50! Check it out!

1. Ramen Sock, $8.00, Urban Outfitters - Got Ramen? These socks are perfect for that quirky guy who doesn't mind a little humor in his closet.

2. Portable Speaker, $29.29, Walmart - For the guy who just can't live without his music.

3. Underground Luxury- B.o.B, $18.99, F.Y.E - Get your guy his favorite artists' new CD.

4. Cologne, $29.50, Bath & Body Works - Have your honey smelling yummy when he puts this on!

5. Hypnotize Cat Tee, $14.80, Forever 21 - You can never go wrong with a cool graphic tee!

6. Jogger Pants, $49.45, PacSun - Introduce your guy to style and comfort. Jogger pants are definitely the way to go.

7. iPhone case, $5.95, H&M - Quirky phone cases are always a win. This one has cool keyboard details! He'll love it!

8. iPhone case, $38.00, Urban Outfitters - Opt for this sleek, wooden iPhone case.

9. 5-Panel Hat, $30.00, Karmaloop - For the flashy guy in your life. He'll stand out with this hat!

10. Vans Sneaker, $32.95, Karmaloop - Classic and cool.

11. iPod Shuffle, $49.00, Apple - Upload his favorite songs to this iPod before you give it to him! He'll be in for a sweet surprise!

12. Nike Hoodie, $39.99, Foot Locker - Perfect for that guy who loves his exercise.

13. Jenga, $30.00, Urban Outfitters - If he doesn't like this totally awesome Donkey Kong edition of Jenga, he's too young for you, girl.

14. SONY Headphones, $19.99, Best Buy - So he can listen to his music in style.

Make A Statement!

Have you ever gotten dressed, looked in the mirror and thought... "This outfit needs something else"? Maybe you needed a swipe of lipstick, a touch of mascara, a dainty ring, or maybe your neck area was just a little... lackluster. Maybe you needed a STATEMENT NECKLACE!

Statement necklaces can be the perfect addition to any outfit. Sometimes you just need that extra oomph! They can serve as the focal point of your outfit and even serve as conversation starters! Check out these collage of elaborate necklaces that I put together! They're super cute and sure to give your outfit the boost it needs!

1. Gold and Coral Beaded Necklace, $16.99, Target // 2. Navi Blossom Bib, $48, Baublebar // 3. Stud Chain Multirow Necklace, $28, Topshop // 4. Insect Harmony Necklace, $12.10, Urbanog // 5. Johnny Loves Rosie Rhinestone & Opaque Collar, $51.85, Asos // 6. Fuchsia Layered Petals Bib, $46, Baublebar // 7. Faceted Gemstone Bib Necklace, $9.80, Forever 21 // 8. Faux Gemstone Bib Necklace, $9.80, Forever 21 // 9. Coral Flower Necklace, $30, Topshop

My Humble Abode

The one part of college that every girl looks forward to? Decorating their dorm room! Seriously, dorm shopping is the best! If you're really into the look and feel of your room and you have a roommate, you get to collaborate with them on design ideas which can be fun, too. Since I'm an resident assistant (RA) at my school, I get to have a room and bathroom to myself! Let me tell you, I could NOT wait to start DIY-ing and decorating up the place once I got on campus! After fashion, interior design is definitely one of my interests. When you think about it, the two are very similar. It's fun to choose color schemes, pick out furniture, appliances, accents, and cute little knick-knacks. Anyways, my room has been the same since I got to school in August, but I figured I'd share my decorating style with you guys. I was super inspired by Urban Outfitters when choosing the decor for my room. I was going for a very colorful, earthy look. I love it!

Wedge You Look At That?

A few weeks ago I bought my first pair of wedge sneakers. They're studded black wedge sneakers from Mary-Kate and Ashley's Olsenboye collection at JC Penney. I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical as I was browsing the shoe department of the store looking for the perfect shoe. I saw several pairs of wedge sneakers and realized that I had never really given the shoe a try. There's a first time for everything! I tried on about 3 pairs of wedges but I decided to go with this simple pair to start off with. One of my main concerns when buying this shoe was that I wouldn't have anything to wear them with. How exactly do you wear a wedge sneaker? Well, I did a little digging through my closet and came up with four outfits that would look great with this stylish shoe. Check em out below!

...

School's In Session (Grrr)

So, about those pictures...

I checked out a digital camera from my school to take the pictures on, using my tripod. I got it all set up, except...

• The camera batteries kept dying
• The pictures were coming out terrible (duh)

The pictures were too bad to even think about sharing. BUT there is a bright side. I start my digital photography class tomorrow, where GUESS WHAT?! I'm gonna learn how to work the fancy cameras! I heard the class was challenging but I am super excited to take it. That means super great pictures coming The Trendblazer's way. YES.

School's In Session

So tomorrow is the first day of second semester at my school and this is the outfit I'll be wearing. I'm going for something simple and comfy since I only have one class tomorrow. I'm actually excited to wear this outfit because I've never worn this sweater, the socks, the bag or the shoes before. I snagged the sweater from my mama during Winter break. I swear, the best clothes were made in the 80's! I bought the socks with my Christmas gift card money. I typically stick to plain white socks, but I'm trying to branch out and experience the other colors in sock land. The darling little purse was given to me by my mama as well. I don't know where she got it from, but I just LOVE the color. It's so rich and warm. It's definitely going to be a favorite among my growing purse collection. I ordered the oxfords from Urbanog in August and tomorrow will be my first time wearing them. Also, NO I am not wearing two necklaces, I just can't decide on which one! Anywho, I'll post pics of how it turns out tomorrow!

xox, Neesh

Get the look: Shirt // Jeans // Shoes

THE TRENDBLAZER IS BACK!

So, after months of abandoning this blog, I've decided to get my stuff together and start regularly posting again! I have so many new ideas and so many things to share with you all and I can't wait to start! First things first, I started branding for The Trendblazer. Check out the logo I created below!

I also changed the layout and created my own background. I'm slowly but surely sharpening my graphic design skills and I can't wait to put them to use to give you guys amazing content! Be on the lookout!

xox, Neesh