Snowpocalypse Recap

This weekend was definitely one for the books. Not only were there record breaking snow totals throughout New York, but I had one of the most fun weekends I've probably ever had. It started with my roommate's 21st birthday and a very well pulled off surprise party. As we headed home the city was already covered in snow and by the time I woke up the next morning all you could see was white.

Manhattan got over two feet of snow, but instead of huddling inside all day I headed over to Washington Square Park with a few friends and fully embraced the weather. Between making a mini snowman, body surfing across slippery benches, and throwing snowballs we had the best time. Of course I wore my Patriots hat (don't even ask me how  bitter I am about yesterday) and red Hunters to stay warm. As the day went on the snow only got worse and NYC shut all the roads so the streets were empty except for wandering New Yorkers. It felt a bit like the Walking Dead except way less terrifying. Walking through the streets was just incredible and a snapchat I took ended up getting featured on the local NYC SnapStory. Of course cuddling up with Clueless, cookies, and hot chocolate was also a very important part of the day :)

Unfortunately, things started to go back to normal Sunday morning as the snow plows took over the city. I headed up to Central Park with two friends and it was truly the prettiest I've ever seen NYC. I could have shared so many more pictures than just these few, but I thought I'd try not to overwhelm you all.

How was the storm where all of you were? Did you stay curled up inside with hot chocolate or spend the day exploring the snow?

Snowpocalypse Recap

Monday, January 25, 2016

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5 Tips for Getting Back Into School Mode

It's that time of year again, when freezing January weather finally sets in and glorious winter break ends just a little too quickly. If you're anything like me you've spent your winter break getting some R&R after a busy semester and doing almost nothing productive. While it's pretty easy to fall into a routine of Netflix binging and forgetting to set an alarm, it's almost impossible to get back into 'school mode' as my mom always used to say.

When I was younger my parents used to make my sister and I start getting up earlier and earlier the last few weeks of summer so that we were ready for the early mornings when school started again. We would always moan and groan, but my parents (as they often are) were right. Taking the little steps to get back into a productive routine really did set us up right for the whole year. So, as we all get back to school and waking up before the sun is even up I have 5 tips for getting back into school mode without hating every moment of it. 

1) Get up at the same time every day, even on the weekend! 

As much as I love sleeping late on the weekends or on days that I don't have an early class, the key to not feeling like a zombie every morning is keeping a consistent sleep schedule. In my opinion this can fluctuate by about an hour and still work! My goal this semester is to consistently wake up between 7:30 and 8:30AM. 

2) Stock your kitchen with healthy and delicious snacks. 

I've mentioned it a few posts recently, but I'm really trying not to eat out or snack on unhealthy foods this semester. I'd say I've been doing decently well so far, but only when I ensure I have the right food around. When I have food in my apartment that I want to eat I don't need to order food from around the corner. A few of my favorite things to keep on hand are Fage yogurts, Boom Chicka Pop lightly sweet popcorn, and ingredients for the easiest quiche recipe (hold the crust to make it even better). My downfall is eating out for breakfast so making a delicious quiche at home packed with spinach is the best way to curb my bagel cravings. 

3) Set aside specific times for relaxation. 

I'm notorious for binge watching shows on Netflix and I'm currently battling a Walking Dead addiction (hence the zombie reference above), but I find setting a specific hour during your day to really just de-stress is the best way to get things done. Whether you like to read a trashy novel, take a long bath, or cook a fancy dinner having some 'me' time is important to everyone's sanity. Plus, when you're working on an essay or writing job applications you'll be able to push forward because you know that relaxation time isn't too far off. 

4) Figure out the best times to go to the gym, do your laundry, go grocery shopping, etc. 

Aside from school and work there are still so many other things to get done in a week. Instead of ending up with no food in your fridge or a pile of laundry schedule these to-dos just like you would a meeting. I touched on this in my recent post about getting healthy as well because I really believe that writing your workouts or laundry loads into your schedule will make you more accountable to getting them done. 

5) Actually do your required reading and plan out your assignments. 

The biggest joke in college are the readings that are supposedly required for each class, but that no one ever does until the night before the exam... I'm sure everyone has at least one experience reading every article assigned throughout the semester when they should only be reviewing and I can say from experience - it sucks. I was so impressed last semester when a friend told me she did a huge case study analysis weeks before it was actually due because she had a lull in her workload and knew she would be busier later. We all know the beginning of the semester is the easiest, so why not take advantage of less work and more free time and get ahead instead of falling behind?

Wishing everyone a great start to their semester!

5 Tips for Getting Back Into School Mode

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

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Welcome to When & Wear

Welcome to When & Wear everyone! I've been counting down to this day since I made the announcement about my blog rebranding and design at the beginning of the year. It's something I've definitely been ready for for a long time now. I started this blog more than three years ago as a high school senior and honestly can't imagine life without it now. At the time I started writing the name 'Peachy Keen' was the right fit for my blog, but so much has changed since then. 

This blog has become a large part of my identity, to the point where my friends refer to me as Peachy Keen Caroline, so the idea of making a drastic change to this place I treasure so much was terrifying. However, over the last year it become clear that I've changed (or maybe just grown up a bit) and it was time for my blog to move to the next stage with me.  I've been lucky enough these last few years to be apart of an incredibly supportive community that has made me realize what is more important to me and my blog is part of that. 

You're probably wondering then, what is most important to Caroline? Well, it comes down to focusing on making every day an adventure and finding joy in even the smallest things. I want to live a life where I'm constantly trying new things and traveling new places, even if it's just for a day. Sometimes though, like most, I get stuck in the frustrating stresses of school or work. 

That is why writing Peachy Keen and now When & Wear is so important to me. Instead of making excuses and spending all my time binge watching tv shows or even sitting in a library studying this blog forces me to go out and spend my time doing something that I'll still be talking about in twenty years. Whether it's a brunch out with friends, exploring a new city, talking about the newest arrivals at my favorite store, or simply taking the long way home from school I'm pushed to do the things that really make me happy. 

I'm so excited to be able to continue my journey through college and whatever comes after with all of you. I know there will be ups and downs (it wouldn't be life without them), but I promise that When & Wear will always stay my place to focus on what brings me joy in hope that it will bring you some too. 

I'm working through a few kinks with the new site, so for now you'll be able to get here through www.peachykeencaroline.com and whenwear.com, but make sure to start getting in the habit of typing in www.whenwear.com into your browser. There is a lot of fun content coming up and I want to make sure that no one gets lost along the way. Of course you can always follow along on Instagram, Bloglovin, and Facebook to stay up to date as well. If you have any problems with the new site please shoot me an email at carolinestfrancis@gmail.com! 

As I plan content I always want to know what YOU want, so please take this reader survey if you haven't yet! 

SHOP THE POST: Banana Republic blazer // Mango sweater // Gap Jeans // Lauren by Ralph Lauren flats // Forever 21 scarf

**pictures taken at Hamilton's Soda Shop & Dream Downtown**

Pictures by Cheyenne Adler

Welcome to When & Wear

Monday, January 18, 2016

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Plenty of Plaid

I'm headed back to New York tomorrow and I have to say as much as I am ready to be back, I'm definitely going to miss being at home. Between the beautiful weather, puppies, friends, and family there really is a lot to miss.

Since I barely get to see them the rest of the year I've been spending plenty of time this break with my friends from high school. We all go to different schools, so the time we get to spend together is especially precious. Even though we talk on a weekly basis (if not more) there is nothing like actually being together. One thing that my friends (both at home and at school) are used to is being asked to take pictures of me for my blog, but they are definitely not used to being in them. Luckily, even with the freezing weather, these two agreed to let me set up a fun shoot before we all head in different directions for the next few months. 

Being home in New England has definitely been influencing my style. I honestly wear either a plaid top, coat, or scarf everyday and only change out of my Sperry boots to put on the Uggs I wear around my house (guilty...). I'm sure I'll be back to the sleek black looks the moment I get back to the city, but for now I'm embracing the plaid and wearing all my bright pieces :)

Plus, just another reminder that Peachy Keen's new name, When & Wear, as well as the new design will be live Monday morning! Don't forget to stop by www.whenwear.com and see all the changes!

Can we just talk about how translucent I am??? Definitely in need of a little sun #countdowntosummer

MY OUTFIT: Gap jacket (similar) // Primark scarf // Gap jeans // J.Crew sweater // Sperry boots (this year's version) // KJP bracelets

KATHERINE + CHLOE OUTFITS: J.Crew plaid coat (similar) // Jack Wills red coat // LL Bean boots // Hunter boots

Plenty of Plaid

Friday, January 15, 2016

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My Favorite Instagram Accounts Pt.2

This time last year I posted the first round of my favorite instagrammers, focusing in on New York, and found that all of you loved getting to discover new accounts! So, I'm back for Part 2 of the series with my newest favorites. These are the accounts that I often find typing into my search bar of a daily dose of inspiration because they never cease to delight me. 

The New England Girl @laurenswells

Lauren lives around Boston and frequently travels around New England. Expect gorgeous nature shots, quaint restaurants, small doses of fashion, and empty beaches. When I'm in New York feeling a bit homesick for New England I love her shots even more. 

The Constant Traveler @shelbyeastman

Shelby is based in New York, but her instagram documents all of her incredible travels. Recently she's been on trips to San Francisco, Texas, and London, but I can't wait to see where 2016 takes her. 

The Monochrome Pro @alyssa.lenore

Alyssa is a fellow blogger at Styled & Smitten and her instagram is a black and white heaven. Her life just looks so chic through the lens of her camera. Plus, you'll want to steal all of her clothes! 

The Fitness Inspiration @hbfit

Since one of my best friends started interning at HBFit it's been my go-to for all things fitness and health. The founder, Hannah Bronfman, is so inspirational and the account will make you want to mix up an acai bowl every day.  

The Mouthwatering Restaurant @tattebakery

A friend of mine told me about Tatte Bakery before I came home for winter break, and ever since I've been obsessed. They have multiple locations around Boston and I'm dying to go before I head back to school. However, even if you're not from the Boston area you'll fall in love with their account. 

Like I said above, I love discovering new accounts so please comment below with either your instagram account or some of your favorites! You can check out my instagram @carolinestfrancis. 

My Favorite Instagram Accounts Pt.2

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

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Outfit: Long Sweaters & Short Skirts

Happy Monday all! This is my last week of vacation and unfortunately I've left myself a LOT of things to do before I go back to school this weekend. I fall pretty easily into a pattern of doing nothing when I'm home, but it's definitely time to get myself out of the lazy vacation mood and get back to work. 

Outfit: Long Sweaters & Short Skirts

Monday, January 11, 2016

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Travel: Annisquam Lighthouse

One of my goals for this winter break was to get off my couch and actually explore a little bit of Massachusetts. I've been into Boston a couple of times since I've been home, but the best day trip I've set out on was this week to Gloucester with my friend Chloe. The Cape and North Shore of MA, both known for their beaches, are pretty deserted during the winter time, but that doesn't mean they are any less gorgeous. I always feel like beaches are even more beautiful in the winter because they are so peaceful. 

Travel: Annisquam Lighthouse

Friday, January 8, 2016

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Caroline's Covets N.9

It's a new year and, of course, my wish list is longer than ever. Despite a bit of post-Christmas shopping this week (I scored this blazer for only $40!) there is still so much I'd love to blow my money on. Typical #shoppingaddict problems, I'm sure you can all relate. 

There are still months of winter left and I have no tropical vacation planned, but part of me just wants to splurge on cute Soludos and nautical dresses. Luckily, the reasonable part of me knows that cozy sweaters, extra long coats, and trendy sneakers are better for NYC living. 

I know it's nothing new typical, but I foresee my wardrobe consisting of black and grey with maybe a few pops of camel over the next couple of months (insert covering eyes monkey). Instead of mixing up my color palette I'll be playing around with texture and pattern. I'm thinking a leather, stripe, and fair isle combo is going to happen sometime soon, especially if I get my hands on this sweater. 

You can shop all my current covets below! Plus, if you like the necklace I'm wearing in the photos above make sure to check out Rocksbox. Sign up using the code peachykeencarolinexoxo to get a free month!

Caroline's Covets N.9

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

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Getting Fit in 2016

If there is one topic I avoid on this blog like the plague it would be health and fitness. I have never been a serious athlete and my plans to stay in shape have honestly never lasted more than a couple of months. The fact that I hate working out combined with a schedule that allows very little time for exercise or healthy cooking and you get a very unhealthy lifestyle.

With the new year I am challenging myself to broach topics on this blog that have seemed off limits in the past, and the first one up is getting in shape. In October, I finally got back on the work out wagon and it has felt amazing. I never really understood people when they said they felt like they 'needed' to work out, but after getting back into a regular routine I started to get it. After spending just 45 minutes on the elliptical each day, my body felt better – I slept better, I intuitively ate healthier and I felt stronger.

Getting Fit in 2016

Monday, January 4, 2016

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Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

 Happy New Year everyone! I love the blank slate of a New Year and 2016 promises to be a year filled with amazing experiences both in my life and blog. I hinted about some pretty big news in my Look Back at 2015 post, and now it's finally time to let you all in on the secret. 

In the coming weeks Peachy Keen will be getting a new name and design! Peachy Keen is becoming When + Wear. 

A new name has been a long time coming since the name Peachy Keen hasn't really felt like 'me' for ages. I started this blog as a 16 year old high school student, and now three and a half years later I'm more than halfway done with college and a whole lot has changed. Anyone could tell you I'm not the same person I was at 16 and, while Peachy Keen has changed with me these past years, I've felt like the name has held me back.

With 2016 I'm ready to really make this blog a reflection of who I am today and where I see myself going in the future. When the full name change goes into effect I'll explain a bit more about how When + Wear came to be, but until then I'll leave it a bit of a mystery.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

Friday, January 1, 2016

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