Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
My fashion goals lately have been to achieve optimal coziness but with a flare of course. Feeling or looking cozy is not synonymous with dressing too casual. I think you can be cozy on nights out, it just depends on how you accessorize. I've always loved warm browns, creams, and neutrals—add a bit of leather and fur and you've got the perfect getup for either a night by the fire or grabbing drinks at a Christmas pub. We've had some nippy evenings in the city as well, so I've been dressing to prepare for wintery commutes lately.
Layers, layers, layers...
I am a firm believer in anything (faux) furry and cozy, and if you're looking for that perfect cozy gift to give, the Columbia Lodge Sherpa Pullover is what comfy dreams were made of. The right amount of warmth and fleece to not be over-bearing or make you sweat. I usually layer it with a turtleneck long-sleeve underneath and it has convenient pockets for your phone, keys, etc. for winter strolls.
I'm also addicted to turtlenecks and cowl necks, but one article of clothing I've never worn is a turtleneck tank top? I was taking a peruse in Zara the other day and thought this knit top would be a great layer to have, especially when I go into the office and don't want to be sweating bullets all day with a big chunky sweater.
It also is just way more flattering and slimming than a big knit sweater, but I can imagine it pairing nicely with these ultra cool 90s inspired fleece lined leather pants. I hopped on the trend and I am obsessed. You'd think they'd be the most uncomfortable pants ever, but I can assure you the fleece on the inside makes it feel like you're walking through clouds.
Leather moments...
Always love a leather moment, and many of my classic looks are completed with a leather jacket, boots, or purse. Especially with all of that fur, it's a good textural balance and is also just really functional and easy to pair leather with whatever I'm wearing like denim or leggings. My key staple as of late have been my brown leather, fur-lined Dr. Martens Chelsea Boots. I've always goo-ed over these, especially because they're not like the regular combat boots and I will be honest, I haven't taken them off since last December. I just gravitate for them as any going out shoe as opposed to sneakers.
Everyone I know says they take super long to break in, but I was good to go the first day after wearing them. Maybe the fur provides an extra barrier of cushion or my feet just molded to them, but I haven't had a single blister!
For my bag lately, I've been carrying around my Longchamp Le Pilage shoulder bag for when I'm not working from home and decide to take work to a local coffeeshop. I can just throw my laptop, charger, planner, phone, wallet, and maybe an extra hair clip or water bottle into it—zip it up—and feel confident knowing no one is going to reach in and take anything out. I don't know how people walk around the city with open tote bags—makes for an easy target if you ask me.
I top the look off with a pom pom hat, maybe some shades, and can never forget my apple watch these days. My favorite feature is just being able to limit my notifications by just seeing who has texted me on my watch and not having to fully dig into my purse only to find I need to update my phone to the most recent version. Who would have known another piece of technology would actually make me more present than I was without it?
So, that's my cozy capsule! I'm not ready for another polar vortex, but if I have to be—I'll do it in style I guess. What are your key cozy essentials this winter?
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We still have an inch of snow in Chicago, but this time of year is when my wardrobe starts to transition from snow boots to bikini shopping—and I'm here for it. As much as I love layering in the fall and winter, I am also looking forward to much simpler, bright and breezy outfits as the sun begins to outlast the days ahead. The last time I wore a skirt was probably early in high school, so I'm excited to switch up my look a bit with new and refined spring staples this year.
A Simple Pair of White Kicks
I never got hooked on the Nike Air Force 1 trend, but have always loved the way white sneakers look (after I got over the fact that they are, eventually, going to turn yellow). I'm a true stan of Adidas sneakers mainly because their cloud foam soles are the best for wide feet. These are the Adidas Advantage Sneakers and I am being so cautious not to step in any rain puddles. They're a classic pair of white sneakers, but with an added touch of personality with the gold panel on the heel.
Flowy tops and Bottoms
Echoing the growing trends of athleisure and sweatpants that winter and this pandemic brought, flowy skirts, dresses, and tops achieve the same form of comfort and movement we all need this spring. I have always loved a cute and simple peasant top, but never a cropped version. I love this Wild Fable Puff Top and the square neckline that I see everybody sporting nowadays. Pair it with some flared or skinny denim and you're all set for a Mamma Mia remake.
I've have been averse from wearing skirts, just because I never knew what types of tops I could wear them with and I also had trouble finding skirts that complimented my waistline. However, we are not limited to miniskirts, ladies! Go out and grab this Madewell Georgette Tiered Maxi Skirt while it's on sale now! It's the perfect breathable length for us tall chicks who can't be seen in short shorts or miniskirts. It's versatile and can be worn casually or dressed up! I am also in love with this New Connection mustard button down dress I bought in France two years ago, and found a similar cami version on Amazon, here. Don't worry, this one also has pockets—a must have.
Everything Sage Green
Green has always been my favorite color, hence the color of my room, and I am thrilled that it is back in style this year. Nail polishes, sweat suits, and sneakers galore are coming out with this subtle sage green color, so when I saw these Universal Thread Adelaide Sandals at Target, I had to pick them up. I never spend too much on strappy sandals, mainly because I own a bunch of them and wear them out. I'm curious to see how these elastic straps will last and I'm excited to not have to buckle them every time I put them on!
Pair your look with an essential leather crossbody and some sweet shades—you look stunnin' honey! March is a month of promise and less sweat pant wearing indeed. I'm always one to find a bit more playfulness with my looks during the springtime, so I hope this edit has inspired you to get out the shorts and sandals after springing forward this weekend. What's on your spring fashion wishlist?
And just like that, we're in September...
Summer felt a lot like limbo and not being so sure as to what to do with my time. August, being my favorite month, of course, always blinks past while fall sneaks around the corner. I have to say, being in lockdown has had its benefits. One being, I'm not overly anxious going back to school. Partially because I know I'll be home for awhile until I can move back into the city, but also because I just cannot wait for cozy nights in and Harry Potter marathons with Cooper snuggled up after a long day of online learning. I will miss football season actually. Even though DePaul doesn't have a team, it's the spirit that brings out the true fall feelings, amirite?
It was really easy to just stay home when we were told to stay home, but me and so many others are itching to get out and take advantage of the summer time there is left. However, I feel like things are slightly shifting to a new "busy normal," with many schools already back in session and peaks of falling leaves and cooler evenings approaching. So, here is my monthly roundup:
01. Begin planning for my senior year. Now that moving is out of the question, I've been getting acquainted with my professors and their way-to-early syllabus postings that I cannot ignore because I'm Type A and need to prepare, as you know. This year will be different, but I'm going into it with an open mind, more excitement than anxiety, and ready to enjoy my last year of college. I've been so uptight and structured these past three years, so I am ready to manifest a go-with-the-flow mentality—as quarantine has taught me so well. I have two internships already under my belt, so I am ready to take on my next professional journey come winter or spring.
02. Taking my camera out more. I will be fully honest—I have failed at being more creative with my photography skills. For one thing, iPhones are great for photography, so whenever I think I need my camera, I opt for my phone instead because it's easy to use and is always on me. Being at home has been uninspiring to say the least, and I'm kicking myself for not bringing it to Oregon last week (yes, I had a fun getaway out there!). Maybe it's the limited number of lenses I own or lack of motivation to switch up my style. I mean, photography takes. time. I want to start doing more creative flat lays, possibly interior themed posts, and find a new style that I like shooting.
03. Start a running goal. I quit my yoga membership recently due to the pandemic and haven't been inspired to start it back up again. I feel at my most healthiest and motivated when I actually want to be doing yoga, but it has felt repetitive, so I got into running on the treadmill and around my neighborhood to switch things up a bit. I found out that a vibing playlist does wonders for people who get bored while they run like me. I get up early and make a goal to run at least a mile straight to boost my energy and usually my mood is set for the day. For a while, I felt like I was in an inactive funk, but I think my body just craved something else, and that's okay!
04. Thrifting, thrifting, thrifting! My sister Melissa and I have been super into thrifting this summer (socially distanced, of course) and there's something about the thrill of the hunt. Not only is it exciting, it's also sustainable! Usually, I'm not looking for anything in particular, but big blue mason jars have been at the top of my list. You can find me in the knick knack section going through all of the picture frames, that are far too overpriced regularly, or at the book section. Clothes can be tricky, but I just found a pair of Sorel boots, which I am actually selling on Poshmark, and you can check out here!
That's my month for you all! Pretty laid back before classes start. It's hard to look even a week ahead nowadays, does anyone else feel that way? How does your September look?
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Since summer has been different, to say the least, my family and I have been continuing to take precaution when we leave the house. I think it's valid to say that after all of that staying at home, many of us have felt like we've needed an excuse to get out. Even to the grocery store. On occasion, my mom and I will hit up some stores, but we're still really weary of where we're going and if it is even necessary to go there.
With that said, I thought I would share some of my carry out essentials and what I bring with me if I do plan on going out. Obviously masks and hand sanitizers are no question, but I have found that the contents of my purse are purposeful. If you have known me for a while then you might have seen me just carrying around a wristlet let alone my phone along with it.
This cute orange bowling style bag has had me swoon. Unlike the large bowling bags I've seen on the luxury purse market, I picked this little guy up from TJ Maxx. You'd think that since this purse has such a defined round shape that it would hit you on the hip, but I've adjusted the strap just right so it's not sitting awkwardly on my hip. Here is a similar dome satchel I found by the same brand, Isabelle, on Poshmark.
I always have some type of small beauty product in my bag depending on where I'm going. Either perfume, lip balm, lotion, you name it. The Chloé Nomade perfume has been my absolute favorite scent to wear—even if I'm just going out to buy groceries. It's a warm floral, perfect for summer and fall. With hints of oakmoss, freesia, and mirabelle plum liquor, you'd think it's a sophisticated fragrance, and it is! If you don't love really sweet or floral, but more musky and warm scents, this is the fragrance for you. The travel size spray bottle is indeed a plus.
I always make sure to have at least two masks in my bag wherever I'm going. You never know if you might lose one, someone in my family forgets one (although unsanitary, I wouldn't recommend on the regular), or it gets dirty. No one likes the feeling of a makeup covered mask, so you always have to be prepared. I love the Athleta Everyday Non Medical masks. They come in a pack of five neutral colors. At first, I thought the blue mask would be more of a navy color, but mine turned out to be teal and I can't complain, it's so cute!
My carry out essentials definitely change from time to time, but I think it's good to only take what I really need with me. I couldn't possibly ever go anywhere with a huge bag full of stuff, it's not ideal for me. Now when I do need to go somewhere, I am more mindful about what is truly necessary—masks and hand sanitizer are the number one essentials and I would hope everyone feels the same way. We have to be cautious, thoughtful, and smart about where we are going, what we are bringing (or what virus we might be bringing), and use our best judgement always. What are some of your carry out essentials?
The month of February always culminates with Valentine's gift guides and an abundance of jewelry ads and I always wonder if people actually use them or not for inspiration. Despite the season of hearts, chocolate, engagement rings, and shiny things, I love to treat myself to jewelry that I know I'll enjoy even if it isn't for a special someone and just a special me.
I love finding those timeless (and practical) pieces that I know I'll love and want to wear for a long time. I am a fan of mixing metals, with simple designs and hardware, and a bit of sparkle is always a plus. Since I get asked a lot about what jewelry I'm wearing, I thought I'd share the staple pieces that I'm currently grabbing from my jewelry box...
One piece of jewelry that I get asked the most about is my Cosmic Balance Necklace from Alex and Ani. The one I previously wore all of the time was silver, but I just think gold compliments my skin tone and really brings out the detail in the medallion.
The best thing about this necklace, like other pieces I've mentioned, is that it's expandable so you can wear it at any length you want. I love the look of layering minimal gold necklaces that have various designs and cuts, too.
I am a huge ring-wearer, I don't think I can leave the house without putting on at least two rings. I feel empty without them and like I've forgotten something. I have been in love with blue fire opal jewelry and to be honest, this stone has been really hard to find in stores, but Etsy has proved to be the place to find it. When it catches the light, you can see all the pretty, opulent shades of ocean blue and purple. It's a very subtle statement.
Most of my rings either come from Etsy, craft fairs, or boutiques that I've visited, so, unfortunately, I do not have exact links, but I also love the Alex and Ani Moon and Star Wrap, which is another one of the classic rings that I wear. I love that it's expandable, so it's really comfortable to wear and form around any of my fingers.
I am always trying to grow my earring collection with more variety, but I love the simple elegance of gold hoops. Madewell earrings, and their jewelry in general, are my favorite pieces to wear at the moment. The great thing about them is that they're sterling silver, but they also have gold plated earrings, too. No more sensitive ears!
If you haven't noticed, I'm really into moons and all of the celestial-themed stuff. This Spaced Out Friendship bracelet comes with a matching star bracelet to give to a friend. It's not your junior-high kind of friendship bracelet, it's gold plated and expandable!
Madewell, Alex and Ani, and artisan boutiques are probably the main places I purchase my pretty gems. I am all about the minimal statements and ones that will outlast the trends. Remember when feathered earrings were a thing? What's your go-to jewelry piece?
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For the special gal...
I can officially say that all of my Christmas shopping is done. Usually, I'm even more ahead of the game and I have it all figured out before December. I love gift-giving. I know I have talked about not being materialistic and what impact we make as consumers, but hey, the holidays are the time to spread a little consumeristic cheer. Especially when it comes to the people that I love.
When it comes to gift-giving, I'm all about the personalized sentiments, but every now and then I think it's definitely okay to hit the high road and splurge on something really nice for a person who is undoubtedly well-deserving of it. Perhaps this can be used as a wishlist for those women in our lives or a little hint for those guys looking for some inspiration.
Perfume is always a hit. There are so many nice perfumes out there and I realize that there are so many different scents to choose from. I love florals and you really can't go wrong with a fresh and femme floral musk. Jo Malone's Peony and Blush Suede perfume is my daily fragrance. A spritz of this is just mesmerizing.
For a gal who loves music and is always jamming, Apple AirPods have been one of my all-time gift-worthy headphones. I've had Beats in the past, but never liked the bulkiness. I can be on the go, working out, or just chilling in bed without having to mess with the fussy cord—worth it.
Christmas tends to bring in an abundance of new beauty releases and I am always happy to receive new products in my stocking to try out. I think one of the easiest products is mascara, there's no need to color match! You can never go wrong with mascara and the Givenchy Volume Disturbia Mascara is the perfect treat-your-gal beauty product.
Handbags and accessories are always great gifts to give. In fact, that was one of the things I got my mom this year. I know a lot of people have a specific brand, style, color, or material they love—bags are just the key to a girl's heart. Something petite and as vibrant as this Calvin Klein Cora Crossbody is the perfect size and statement. It's the perfect Christmas red, too.
As much as I honestly love receiving fuzzy socks, sometimes it's okay to go above and beyond, especially for a jaw-dropping moment, by gifting this Gucci GG Marmont Card Case Wallet. It's a timeless piece and will be a long-time love of mine.
No need to panic—my gift guide is here to inspire and enhance your gift-giving ideas. Treat the lovely women in your life because you and I both know socks may not just cut it this year. While I do think practical gifts can be well-loved, I'm def asking for a new calendar lol, sometimes going the more luxurious route may be a really nice surprise for someone not expecting it.
My favorite part of gift-giving is seeing the receiver's reaction and the whole process of opening up a present. Just the small joys in giving make my heart feel full and warm. Who's on your gift-giving list this year?
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