The Ultimate Packing Hack!

Hey guys!

I've been home for a few days now after coming back form one of the best trips to one of my favorite cities, Boston! I can go on and on about that city and the time I spent over the weekend, buuuut todays post I wanna focus on this app that has transformed my life, and make packing so much more efficient! 

Not sure if I have mentioned on the blog that I am the definition of an over pack. Even if i'm spending the weekend in the keys my carryon, is stuffed to the brim with a million outfits to do an "impromptu" quick change...... in the keys.... where I only wear a t-shirt and my swimsuit at best. I knew I was only going to be in Boston for a few short days and didn't wanna cram Mary's dorm with an excessive amount of luggage (okay, I still brought a ginormous bag, props to the ones who can fit their stuff in a carryon.) I was determined to see if I can break my bad habit of it! 

Now, I couldn't have completed this treacherous task with my strength alone. About a month ago I discovered Finery; it's essentially the computer system Cher Horowitz has in her closet. (If you are not familiar with this reference from the cult classic, Clueless, I advise you stop what your doing and watch it immediately!) 

How I feel using Finery!

You simply sign up for free, put in some information and the app recognizes your own clothes and builds outfit inspo's, or even what to wear based on your location & the weathers that day, how cool is that! Technology is amazing at times. I was able to cultivate this chic look which I wore the last day In Boston. The best part of all of it, I was able to plan accordingly without having to bring along my whole wardrobe for a four day trip!!

To get started; levitate your mouse over this link to start making your life so much easier!!

One last thought! You can shop my outfit below if you please! :)

Xoxo,

Jillian

A Broke College Girls Guide to NYC

Before I begin, I have been reflecting about the stories that summers tell. Each summer has a story, as well as each trip to NYC. New York is obviously unlike no other, between the energy that the city brings that has you feeling inspired to create, achieve or even think beyond what you are currently feeling. I am not even going to apologize for such a cheeseball start to this blogpost, spending this past week in the city has really helped me prioritize what I want to achieve for myself in the future.

With all the wonders and enchantment that the city brings… it comes with a pretty big price tag. New York City is hella expensive, not to mention how easy it can be to blow all your savings on a handbag in Barneys! (I was very tempted to pull a little Carrie Bradshaw moment, but that would mean I would starve for the rest of the week haha.) If you are in the same boat as me don't worry, I’ll be sharing a few of my ‘broke college girl tips’ to really stretch your dollar when you visit the city!

1. Budget for what's important and save a little to splurge:

I know I might not be the right person to share money saving advice, but I surprisingly did okay with budgeting my money while being tempted with all that NYC holds. Prior to your trip, it's a great idea to map out your plans. This way you can visualize what you will be busy with and how much you should spend for each day, while leaving a little leftover for any emergency you didn’t plan for, or if you want treat yo self a little!

2. Where to rest your head:
Hotels aren’t cheap and most often it's hard to find one in your price range, especially if your staying for a handful of days. I was lucky enough that Mary’s sister let us stay in her apartment while we visited, so we saved a big chunk of change with the hotel. It would be foolish to stay in a hotel if you know someone in the city or at least close by!  Airbnb is a better alternative to a hotel since they are usually a lot more affordable, as well as kinda making you feel that you are a part time New Yorker!

3. YUM
I’m beginning to think that some restaurants are catching on to the concept of looking ‘gramworthy so they can up the prices with their not so great food.  Mary and I learned this the hard way. Please, please, please take my advice and if there's a new restaurant you have a strong desire to check out, please read the reviews before you end up shoveling out tons of money for a dining experience that was just ‘alright.’ Also, don’t feel obligated to eat out for every meal, that starts adding up. Cook a big breakfast, bring a protein bar with you and go out for dinner! Cutting back on how many times you eat out adds up in the long run.

4. Do Your research!
Not everything you do in NYC has to be extremely expensive. Get up on your research, a lot of museums and stores offer student discounts. Even if you are unsure if they accept a student discount or not, don’t be afraid to ask, the worst thing someone could say is no. Don’t get sucked into overspending on a tourist trap, there is so much more to New York for you to enjoy,