1.13.2020

Petite Trench Coat For A Classic Look

1.13.2020
Southern California experienced a fairly cold and rainy Fall, and that weather has carried over into Winter and the new year. I seriously love it! When you live in a warmer climate like I do, you relish any chance you get to wear something different than you're normally able to. I've been reaching for this trench coat pretty regularly, especially on days where it rains off and on. I bought it specifically for our trip to the east coast, but it has served me well ever since. Paired with classic ballet flats, the look is functional yet chic.


You just can't go wrong with a tailored trench coat. I think most people wear them in Spring, but they can work year-round depending on where you live. It really is one of the most polished pieces you will ever own. I used to have one in a more classic style and in a traditional khaki color, but I sadly had to part ways when it no longer fit. Back in early Fall, I set out on a mission to find a decent replacement. I try to shop for petite outerwear when I can, and luckily Express came through. They have a more limited petite section than some stores do, but they also have some great staples that are extremely versatile. Although this isn't the color I had in mind, I'm really happy with it. The large zippered pockets keep my hands warm, and the length of the sleeves are perfect. I love wearing this coat with jeans, but I've also worn it over my black faux leather leggings and it definitely elevated the overall look. It would be gorgeous over a dress for a more formal occasion. The styling options are endless.

I'm really drawn to classic pieces in Winter...how would you describe your Winter style?
6 comments

1.08.2020

New Year, Same Me?

1.08.2020
In the last few days of 2019, I spent most of my waking hours lost in thought. In between fun outings that included a day trip up into the snow covered San Bernardino mountains, dancing with my in-laws at an outdoor concert, and generally enjoying the stasis between Christmas and New Years, I couldn't help but reflect on the decade that shaped my life.

Here are some quick highlights:

 2010: I graduated with a BA in Human Development from Cal State San Marcos
          (First in my family to attend college)

2011: I moved in with my boyfriend of a few years and he proposed during a birthday trip in Las Vegas
          (I had no intentions of ever getting married after my parents divorced)

2013: We got married and bought our first condo
          (We ultimately sold the condo, a regret we now have. It could have served as extra income)

2016: I quit my job of 6 years without any real plan
          (The anxiety was too much, but I miss working with the kids)

2019: Nate started a business, a dream he's had since he was a teen
          (A huge risk, and only time will tell what happens next)


In between the highlights, there were plenty of lows as well. Even in looking at my list now, it seems rather lackluster on the page. So much of life is routine, and milestones become rare as you move along in adulthood. All we can hope for is to keep advancing, improving, and evolving. Time has a mysterious way of propelling us forward, even when we feel stuck. I have felt stuck more often than not, but something I've definitely learned in the last decade is we are never truly standing still. Life goes on.


I don't have any sweeping changes in mind for 2020. I'm just not giving into the pressure. Every January we are inundated with articles and ads about losing weight and getting fit, creating positive habits in our daily routines, drinking more water, setting new goals. Realistically, we should be doing these things year-round, constantly re-evaluating. So what is it about a new year that makes us want to do and be better versions of ourselves? Psychologically speaking, I think it's all about the perception of beginning a new year with a blank slate, starting over on January 1. It's a powerful force, one that fills us with hope and promise. Even if you feel like you're doing well in your life, there's always room for improvement. If you're not content and had a tough year, the wanting of transformation is even stronger. I get it, I really do. I'm all for making positive changes, and I do believe that we have the power to change what we want to. The problem I have is that in the past, I focused on trying to reinvent myself. "Oh if I do x, y, and z, then I'll finally be successful and happy!" Instead of improving myself, I really just started turning away from myself - trying to act in ways that weren't me. Looking back, I think it actually hurt me. I want to become more of myself, not less. I want to be proud of the person I see in the mirror.

As for this blog, I'd really just like more interaction with you. It's always been my favorite part about this community, but I'll admit that I haven't been as engaged as I used to be and I'd like to correct that. I'll begin by replying to every single comment I receive, something I neglected to do last year. If there's ever anything I can improve on, don't hesitate to let me know. I spend a lot of my days alone, and hearing from you always brightens my outlook and helps me feel less lonely. I hope this year is wonderful for all of us.

One week has already gone by in 2020. What will the rest hold?
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1.06.2020

My Favorite Posts From 2019

1.06.2020
Well hello there!

Listen, I have to be honest. I didn't mean to neglect my blog for almost a month! I had every intention of finishing out 2019 strong, but every time I went to edit some photos or attempted to write, my brain shut off and I found something else to do. I feel guilty, but I really wanted to enjoy the last few weeks of the decade with family and I'm so grateful that I was able to do that. I hope you were able to as well.

Before I move on to a new decade and a new year, I always like to look back on my favorite posts from the previous one. Although I didn't post as frequently in 2019, I did feel good about the content I created. I often struggled with what direction to go in, and that was frustrating, but ultimately I did the best I could. It seems that my readers like a mixture of things that include outfits, beauty products, and lifestyle posts so definitely expect to see more of that in 2020! I have quite a lot to say and will catch you up on my plans, but for today, I'm keeping it short! Here are my favorite (and from my analytics, yours too) from 2019.


Favorite Outfits: From an orange wrap to a cobalt blue beauty, dresses were my go-to in 2019! Don't count out an easy sweater and jeans combo though.




Beauty: Last year, I mostly stuck with products I've used for a long time. But I also fell in love with eyelash extensions and the niche brand The Ouai.



Favorite lifestyle posts: I loved the trips I took in 2019, especially our road trip across the western states during the Summer.



Thank you all so much for stopping by, reading, and commenting. I appreciate your support more than I can say. It means so much to me. 2019 was a great year, but I'm even more excited for the possibilities that 2020 holds. Happy New year!
4 comments

12.18.2019

The Holiday Edit

12.18.2019
Can you believe that Christmas is one week away? I sure can't! The holidays fly by, and with each passing year I vow that I won't procrastinate on buying gifts, sending out cards, and figuring out what I'm going to wear to a couple events. I did pretty well this time, aside from mailing out any cards (oops) but I'll give myself a pass!

In lieu of my usual monthly edit, I decided to instead do a holiday edit. I know this is a bit last minute, but I wanted to share with you a couple outfit ideas that you most likely already have in your closet, along with some other things I like to enjoy in December.

Christmas in Temecula, CA

Outfit ideas: I keep seeing a lot of sparkle as outfit inspiration, and I agree that sequins are always fun for the holidays. But let's face it, not all of us are going to any fancy celebrations. If I showed up to my in laws decked in glitter they'd assume I had too much spiked eggnog already. Instead, I favor a more subdued outfit that's still pretty and polished.


Casual look: A cozy chic sweater, my favorite comfortable jeans, and these gorgeous cognac booties I scored on major sale!
(sold out Madewell booties but I'll keep checking)

Dressed up: Instead of something shiny, I think a little black dress is perfect for a holiday party. You can always add some fun statement earrings to elevate the look even more. Nate's birthday is December 30th and this is what I plan on wearing for dinner at our favorite spot. Add tights and ankle boots if you live in a colder climate! This dress also comes in other colors if you want to stand out a bit more. It's a beautiful classic piece to have in your wardrobe. It's true to size.
Beauty: When it comes to beauty in December, glowing skin comes to mind. You can refer back to my post from last year since my philosophy (and many of the products I used then) haven't changed much. I will say that I'm not going for a dark red lip this time around because Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk collection has me permanently hooked! I'm all about dewy skin and plump sexy lips.  



Ultimate holiday treat: I can't take credit for this recipe but I can definitely share it! Warm gooey brie, puff pastry, and sweet fruit...what could be better? I can make an entire meal out of just this! Photo and recipe courtesy of The Recipe Critic. I get after it with a fork, but some people put theirs on a cracker. Either way, delicious!


Non-traditional holiday music list: I listen to music every single day, but I'm not too keen on traditional Christmas music. Yes, many songs are beautiful and some also quite meaningful, but when I want to get in the holiday spirit, I tune into these (mostly) romantic songs instead. They make me want to curl up on the couch next to the fireplace.
Adele - Hello
Chris Stapleton - Tennessee Whiskey
Vance Joy - Lay It On Me
The Lumineers - White Lie
Sam Smith - Stay With Me
The Fray - Look After You


Last minute gift ideas I actually own and love: I didn't do any in-depth gift guides this year, but if any of you are still scrambling to find last minute gifts, I swear by these! Click on each to shop.








I hope you enjoyed this! Please feel free to share any of your own tips, ideas, and traditions you like doing for the holidays! Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style.
3 comments