Monogrammed Moleskine

I'm not exactly sure what it is, (though I suspect my recent addiction to thecollegeprepster.com is the root of the issue) but I have been loving monograms lately. Starting with my sunglasses case post, I have been monograming way too many (and not enough) of my possessions. More monogram projects will be appearing in the future. Anywhoo, this is super similar to the sunnies case refashion.

Materials
Wax pencil/ Grease Pencil (I recommend white for all projects)
Notebook/ Planner
Thin tipped paintbrush
Paint (gold is super classy, but any complimenting colors will be good)

1. Sketch monogram onto cover. Lightly draw lines in to make sure everything is even and centered if you must. Nothing looks cheesier than a off-center paint job.

2. Vary the paintbrush size depending on the thickness of the monogram lines that you want. Make the lines VERY THIN to start with, so that any squiggles can be corrected. Make a stencil using freezer paper and an exacto knife if you're particular, but thats more of a time investment than I was willing to make.

3. Paint over the sketch. Do one coat, let dry and then repeat. If you keep painting over wet paint, the finished results will look streaky and lumpy. If there are any stray wax pencil marks left, use a damp q-tip or an eraser to get rid of them.

TAA DAA! And whammoblammo, now you can be organized AND preppy.

I am THRILLED with the results, and will have no excuse to use such a cute dayplanner now. What do you think? What other items would you like to see monogrammed?

P.S. (Sorry for all the parenthesis. Not sure why I'm doing it, but I can tell it's a problem.)

Get the Style: Preppy

This is the first post in a series I've dreamed up. I'm going to detail how to get a specific look by throwing on a few pieces. Some future looks will be hipster, sporty, and boho. Let me know what other looks you want to see explained.

A hint of preppy: To add just a touch of a preppy aesthetic to an outfit, get classy with some pearls. At your neck, in your ears, and on your wrists, pearls dress up any outfit,which is why they are worn by those wanting to look a little more refined in their casuals.  If pearls aren't available, try some jewelry with a delicate chain. Add a headband, ribbon, or anything with a bow, and you're on your way to being a prepster.

No doubt about it: Khaki shorts, boat shoes, and polo shirts announces to the world you are a prep. Pastels are preferred colors, and for when it's chilly, step away from the hoody, and pick up a (pastel, duh) cardigan instead. 

Going all the way: This is full commitment. Bottoms with whales, lobsters, and ducks embroidered on the bottom make this style. Madras, the patchwork style is a way to be a little more casual. Lilly Pulitzer prints scream "preppy" and monograms on everything are a way to mark your property, stylishly. 

Here is a link to my Polyvore sets, where you can find all the products I used.

I hope everyone now feels suitably aware of what items to choose depending on how preppy you want to look. This was a ton of fun, and my first time on Polyvore. I would love to hear feedback!
xo, H