1.07.2015

I'm not one to set resolutions each year. I used to buy into the notion when I was younger, but I have had such struggles with maintaining them that I like to stick to writing down my "goals" rather than coming up with some grandiose plans to change my life every new year that passes. I think resolutions can often set people up for failure because some just have way too many expectations. I do like the feeling of beginning fresh each January. I often do feel revitalized after the new year, but I also know that past behavior is likely an indicator of what's to come, so I set small goals for myself and go about them in steps.

When it comes to this blog, I feel much more relaxed stating my style and beauty goals. Let's not kid ourselves. Shopping itself isn't exactly a deep hobby that involves too much critical thought. It's fun, and it should remain as lighthearted as possible. I always say, if you aren't saving a life...it isn't that important. With that in mind, I do have some thoughts on how I want to approach my personal style and beauty habits in 2015.



1. Pay more attention to details

I've noticed that as drawn as I may be to accessories, I don't really wear many of them as often as I should. Over break, I cleaned out my closet and purged old scarves, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that don't work for me anymore. In hindsight, were they ever really my style? It's easy to get caught up in trends. Companies like Baublebar are so popular because they sell pretty pieces at affordable prices, but I think for awhile there, I was getting caught up in their coupon codes and promotions. I'd look on Instagram and see a blogger wearing a necklace that I felt compelled to own myself, most likely because of the way it was styled. I ended up with way too much, and with way too many random things that didn't make sense in my wardrobe. Now I want to focus on wearing accessories that tie my outfit together and that can be mixed and matched together. A statement piece to dress up an otherwise casual look, or layered delicate accessories that make my outfit more unique and personal. Lately I've neglected much of my jewelry altogether which is such a shame. I need to pay more attention to the details.

2. Don't "Protect" or save designer goods for the shelves

I finally wore my Chanel flats over Winter break when I had time off from work. I was terrified because I haven't used a protector on them and I fear that they will get dirty and show wear way too quickly. I baby my designer items (which really only consists of two). They are such classics that I want to have them forever, and it isn't every day that they come into my life. My husband and I aren't made of money, and I still feel strange even owning anything "high-end". But what's the point of having them if I don't use them? Yes they look pretty sitting in my closet but aren't they meant to be enjoyed? I want to get rid of that fear and wear all of my things. 


3. Switch up my beauty routine so I don't get stuck in a rut


I started this blog to talk about beauty. I know, shocking. I think I've diverged from that because I didn't feel like I was changing my routine too often, and I was tired of keeping up with the collections and constant buying. I'm happy that my blog went in a somewhat different direction because I feel more comfortable in the space that I'm in. But I do miss the beauty blog aspect of Beautygirl24. I think writing and reviewing less products has caused me to save more money, but the downside is that I have become so boring with my makeup. I used to do smokey eyes, nude lips, baby pink lips, a pop of color on the eyes. Now I do very simple makeup. I have some beautiful products that I've neglected and I don't want to get stuck in a rut. 



4. Keep blogging for the right reasons

I've had this one on my mind for months, and I've debated on whether to throw it out there into the universe or keep quiet. I've been blogging since late 2009. Since then, so much has changed. I think girls started a blog because they genuinely loved discussing their particular hobby. Beauty lovers wanted to share their tips and tricks, so they blogged about those. Girls who had a passion for fashion put on their best clothes and blogged about their latest finds. Real people writing and sharing about what they loved. Now people blog for a living. Like, it's their sole income. People have quit jobs that they spent years in college working towards. Everything is monetized and while I can't outwardly blame them for making money on the things they would buy and recommend anyway, I do have a slight problem with those that push a sale at any cost. What happened to just doing it because you love it? What happened to interacting with other bloggers because you wanted to really connect, and not solely for networking purposes to get ahead? I do use RewardStyle links and I do make some commission from this blog but I haven't forgotten why I started it in the first place. I only work with companies that I like and would buy from myself. I hope I don't offend anyone for this slight rant, but it just needed to be said because it's been weighing on my mind. I guess everyone should do what feels right for them. For me, I just want to continue to produce content that you guys enjoy seeing and reading. If I fail at that, or am failing, please let me know and I will change what I can.



This was a long one. Thank you for reading :)

30 comments:

  1. I want to be more selective in my accessorizing. I want to put more thought into what I am wearing this year for sure. Happy 2015!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We are on the same page :) More thoughtful dressing is a great way to put it!

      Delete
  2. Noelle, I really appreciated the last paragraph. to be completely honest, about 90% of the blogs I used to love and follow are now pushing sales, posting links,... it's all about what to buy at least once a week, declaring every trendy items as "must have" or "investment"...it's just too much materialism for me to handle so I have unfollowed most. And this is coming from a woman who loves pretty things, but the blogsphere has become too shallow for me for the most part.

    Your blog and a very selected few are the only ones I click on now as I feel you do this because you enjoy dressing up and sharing your looks. I just relate to you a lot more so I keep coming back. Stay on the same track and do your thing lady and I'm a happy follower :)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Love #4! I haven't been blogging nearly as long as you, but I've definitely notices the shift!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It's a huge shift at that! I wonder where it will go next?

      Delete
  4. I definitely protect my designer goods! They are so expensive I don't want to ruin them, but that totally defeats the purpose of buying them haha. something I am trying to get better at!
    www.amemoryofus.com

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's how I feel! It's not like I can go buy another pair of chanel flats so I cringe at the thought of anything ruining these. It's a silly problem to face, so I plan on really keeping up with this resolution.

      Delete
  5. Great resolutions! I definitely need to start wearing more of my accessories. I find a "go to" and end up wearing that all the time instead of switching it up

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, I do the same! I tend to gravitate towards certain pieces because I love them so much but then I neglect other things. Let's switch it up!

      Delete
  6. I could not wait for your post to go live today. :) First, I love resolutions 1-3. You should definitely wear your luxury items and get that cost per wear down. LOL. Or just because you love them and enjoy wearing them. With #3, I don't switch up my beauty routine much at all and prefer it that way because it saves me money. But it sounds like it's something you miss and love so by all means you should do it! #4. You are SO SO right about the changes in the industry. It has changed completely from when it started, and it's no longer the authentic sharing of a passion that it once was. (At least...for the top people.) The type of content that I love reading the most from you is the stuff that YOU love to create :) Your genuineness (is that a word) shines through and is totally enjoyable. I don't think you should change a thing.:)
    Gina - On the Daily Express

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Gina, I loved your post too! I'm so happy I have your support. And your friendship :)

      Delete
  7. Noelle don't be upset that your blog has changed direction!! Xx I still love your blog as much, even though you don't do as much beauty :) loved this post and beautiful New Years resolutions ! Xx happy new year my lovely, really enjoyed this post and don't apologise for it being a long one, I appreciate it !! :D xoxo Check out my new blog post! I'm in need of some followers, thank you! X http://xbeyoutifulx.blogspot.co.uk

    ReplyDelete
  8. I'm the exact same way except for wearing my designer items, I'm always trying to get my money's worth lol. But I would be pretty freaked out if I had chanel flats, they are so so pretty. I think you are doing a great job :) #4 I couldn't agree more once people start blogging fulltime, things change and you can clearly tell that it's more scripted. Hence I prefer to follow women with jobs and a life outside of blogging.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I do too rachelle. Following women who have lives outside of the blogosphere is so much more relatable for me. My life doesn't always resemble a shiny Instagram picture ;)

      Delete
  9. Absolutely love this post! I agree 100% with everything you said here. I don't own many high end items but I tend to not wear certain items for the same reason so I'm trying to do the same! I was addicted to groopdealz and Jane for a while and my jewelry drawer is ridiculous now. It's easy to get caught up in the moment and buy when the price point is so low. It's a shame that a lot of blogs have gone that route. I haven't blogged in forever & I really miss you and a few other bloggers that I was able to connect with. I hoping to find more time in 2015 to blog, even if it's twice a month.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I miss your blog too Danielle! I really hope you can pick it back up again because I would really enjoy reading it. I miss so many girls that don't blog anymore. It's like losing an old friend.

      Delete
  10. Such great points! I'm glad you could be completely honest about these goals. Blogging really has changed significantly over the last few years but I'm glad you can stay true to yourself. :) I've loved following along!

    Sequins&Stilettos


    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you, your blog still remains one of my favorites. We have come a long way!

      Delete
  11. Replies
    1. Thank you Tiffany! We shall see how 1-3 go!

      Delete
  12. Great goals! I am always trying to remind myself why I started blogging and go back to that feeling. It's a constant work in progress and balancing act for me. I do think blogging has made me become more aware of the importance of accessorizing and it helps motivate me to care about my appearance on days I would I have said forget it in the past. In the end, I always feel better about myself when I am well dressed.

    Amy Ann
    The Real Arnolds

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you Amy Ann, I agree completely! Blogging does make you examine your appearance in a way that can both be positive and negative. Some days I feel like I don't even have the right to have a style blog because I want to stay in sleep clothes! Other days I love what I'm wearing and feel compelled to share. If I didn't blog, who would I share them with? Many of my friends aren't into fashion! There are pros and cons to this little internet space but I mostly love it and I enjoy connecting :)

      Delete
  13. I was nodding my head to each resolution - I definitely own too many necklaces - I especially regret buying the multiples...and now I make it a point to resist and to give away any doubles I own. But while I could get rid of a couple - I definitely find myself rotating between the necklaces I own - it's nice knowing that I can find the "perfect" one to complete an outfit...but yeah, I don't need to buy anymore ;-)

    I have been using a lot of my "special" items - I think that's why they attracted me in the first place - it's a little bit of luxury to add to my everyday routine (you know I'm mainly talking about bags here since I go for budget everything else LOL!)

    Also - I so agree with your blogging points - I'll admit, the longer I've blogged - the more opportunities I've received - but I'm careful to only write about things I'm genuinely excited about... my blog is a hobby - so if it's not fun for me to write, what's the point?

    Love your blog and every post you write - hugs!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for your feedback zeba! I really appreciate your input because you and I have been blogging for so long and we have similar style. I'm excited for all the opportunities you've been given! You are always very sweet and genuine on your blog and I never get the idea that you are pushing products on your readers. I still adore your blog!

      Delete
  14. I love your honesty in this post down to the last punctuation mark! Yes blogging is fun. Even more fun if you can make a little cash doing what you absolutely love! But ultimately- it's being able to meet people like you in real life and maintain those relationships that make it worth while! I have loved following along with you this year! And I adore those chanel flats btw and agree that they need more air time! :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks caryl! I think we touched on this during our meet up! I'm so happy I discovered you ladies. Many of the girls I used to follow don't blog anymore so I would be very lonely without you!

      Delete
  15. I completely agree with you on the direction of blogging. You are one of the first blogs I started reading and still love your blog to this day :-) I connect with people that I believe share their honest day to day life/attire and I've always felt that about you and your blog. And I can't finish this comment without telling you that I dream about those Chanel flats daily!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Hey Noelle, I'm late to comment. I love this list -- I have very similar goals as well. Your last point re: blogging is exactly how I feel as well. Well said!

    ReplyDelete

Thank you for commenting! I read each and every one, and do my best to answer questions or return the favor on your blog.