Bohemian Mood

Casual bohemian style is a huge part of California's look and culture. It's a natural fit, though I'll admit that an unclear definition required me to do a quick Google search. Just what really is "boho style" anyway? According to wikipedia, "Bohemian style, often called boho or boho chic focuses on free and flowy fashions, natural fabrics, and earthy colors and patterns." It also refers to people "who live unconventional, usually artistic, lives."

Hmmmm, I think I'm fairly conventional, but I do love flowy fabrics and earth tones. I guess there's a reason why I've become so drawn to it over the last few years, especially when I tire of structured, more classic pieces. My search led me to explore why this style was popularized by women in the 1960's and 70's as a sort of backlash against more restrictive dress codes. I'm all about comfort, so I imagine I would have been one of those women! I'm kind of a hippie at heart.

Wearing // Leith bodycon dress on sale, Similar long cardigan, Similar booties, Gorjana necklace, Similar Sezane bag

This long duster cardigan has been a great way for me to bring a little boho chic to an otherwise simple black dress. The ankle boots tie it all together, and I love the contrast of earthy tones with black, and with a bodycon dress paired with a flowing cardigan. The duster creates a lot of movement, and it lends to the carefree vibe of the outfit. We've had some beautiful sunny days and the promise of Spring is getting near. That alone puts me in a happier state of mind. I know so many of you are sick of Winter by this point and I don't blame you. We're almost in March! Patio season is getting closer and closer...

I also styled this long duster cardigan here & here in case you need more ideas. What do you think of boho style? 

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My Favorite Black Jeans for Curvy Petites

I'm a jeans and t-shirt girl through and through, but I'm very picky about the ones that I choose. Dark wash jeans have always been a closet staple, mostly because they are universally flattering and extremely versatile. I've worn them to work, school, birthday parties, holidays, camping, the beach. There aren't many articles of clothing that could do all that and be considered appropriate! I also prefer mine without any rips or distressing.

I'll admit that when it comes to jeans, I'd rather stick to what I know works on my body instead of following the trends because those come and go. For example, super skinny jeans are "out" while cropped looser styles are definitely "in". I'm a big believer in wearing what you want though and who knows? Maybe I'll give one of the popular styles a try this Spring.

For now, the one pair that I'm reaching for a lot are these black high-waist jeans from Topshop.

Wearing // TopShop jeans, Rails tee on sale, BlankNYC moto jacket on sale in different colors, Similar Sezane bag, Similar flats, Gorjana rings

I actually had these exact Topshop jeans in a dark wash a few years ago, but they also had a giant rip across one knee (remember that trend?) and it just never felt right for me. But I loved the "jamie" style because they were a nice higher rise and came in petite length. I'm all for tailoring your denim if you're under 5'4 (Nordstrom will even do this service for free) but when I can buy a pair that fits properly right off the rack, then by all means I do! 

Fast track to the jamie in solid black, a very close second to my favorite dark wash denim rule. These are no joke and so slimming! They practically come up to my bust, that's just how high waisted they are. I size up in these, although they do have a decent amount of stretch that hugs curves comfortably. I think this style looks best for work with a loose fitting button-down blouse, maybe in a rich jewel tone. I see a lot of women wearing them casually with a cropped sweater or t-shirt, which is what I'm wearing here with a moto jacket for warmth. Or, a bodysuit would look great since you don't have to worry about keeping anything tucked in if you prefer a tuck. It all depends on your personal style and what you feel good in. Either way, if you're petite and curvy, a higher rise black jean is something you should absolutely try this year! 

Do you have any denim brands you'd recommend? I really want to try Good American. 

Linking up with Straight A Style

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A Different Kind Of Valentine's Day Post

I'm sure you don't need a reminder that Valentine's Day is almost here, so instead of talking about what I'll be doing to celebrate, I want to briefly let you in on something.

I've been struggling lately with my mood, my overall outlook on the world, and with loving myself. There have been way too many days than I'd care to admit that I haven't gotten dressed or even left the house. When I have gone out things have actually been good, but always with the anticipation of retreating to my bed as quickly as possible. I know what this means, as it's all too familiar. The thing about managing depression and anxiety is that just when you feel like you've conquered them, they come back with a vengeance. They sneak up. It's so disheartening, and there's a lot of guilt associated with it because there really is so much to be grateful for.

I look around and I see all these wonderful, talented women who are getting things done, accomplishing goals, and living life to the fullest. I always thought I'd be one of them, but instead I feel like I'm just barely treading water. If I'm being completely honest, the only times I've felt human so far this year are these, when I force myself to get dressed to take blog photos. I look at them and wonder if others can tell that this is the first time in about 3 days that I've done my hair and makeup and have put myself together. I ordered this pretty new dress for Spring, and although it is indeed a pretty dress, as soon as I took it off, I immediately felt down again. As a blogger who writes about style and beauty regularly, it's ironic. Sometimes I just feel phony, like I'm portraying myself in ways that aren't real. Nate thinks it's the opposite, that these images really are the real me when I'm not clouded in sadness, anxiety, and guilt. I'd like to believe he's right.

Wearing // Floral dress (wearing medium), Similar sandals, Anthropologie necklace, sold out Madewell bag

I try not to compare my days to someone else's but sometimes it's nearly impossible. There are so many reasons to not feel good enough in today's digital world. I assumed it would be jealousy of another woman's slender figure, perfectly full eyebrows, or voluminous hair. But really, what I'm most envious of are their personalities and the way that they carry themselves. And by they, I mean women I personally know as well as women I've never met. I'm envious of women who have true confidence and who can carry a conversation without staring at the ground or fumbling their words. I'm envious of women who have taken control of their own destiny, who have taken risks to get where they are in their careers. I'm envious of women who don't constantly doubt themselves. These are the things that I envy now, and while all of this should inspire me, when I'm in a funk it just brings about feelings of self-loathing. Not exactly hearts and flowers over here.

I know depression is something I'll always struggle with. It comes and goes in waves, like most things in life. That's the beauty of it I guess. Just when I feel lower than low, something happens or someone says something to snap me back to gratitude. Who knows, by this time next week I might reread this and be embarrassed because I feel great.

I didn't intend to write a dreary post during what's supposed to be a love-filled week, but I just needed to get it off my chest. These feelings will pass. I'm going to put this dress on again for Valentine's Day, and even if my mood isn't quite as high as years past, I'm going to celebrate anyway. I think the hardest love of all, at least for me, is self-love and it's something I have to work on every day. I read a quote somewhere recently that resonated with me so I'll leave it here. "Work with your darkness, but don't let it swallow your light."

Enough about me, how are you all doing? 

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The Beauty Products I'm Using All Month

Now that we are into February, I'm really beginning to feel Winter's harsh effects on my dry pale skin. I don't know about you guys, but this time of year really takes a toll on my self confidence. I've written about this before with some clarity, but I'll admit that at the moment my eczema is the worst it's ever been and I blame the ridiculously dry climate I live in. I want to scratch my legs off!

In an effort to distract from all that, I've been enjoying some rather romantic looking products to bring life to my face. With Valentine's Day in exactly one week, I'm using rosy-toned hues on my eyes, lips, and cheeks. Products with a slight sheen or hint of shimmer are my go-tos this month to add some warmth to my complexion, and also to remind myself that Spring will be here before we know it! Each item is listed below.

1. Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter: I love mixing this in with my regular foundation, concentrating on my cheeks for a "lit from within" glow. It's far too glowy for my preference on its own, but when mixed with other foundation it really is a lovely product for instant dewiness.

2. Ouai North Bondi Perfume: I can't get enough of Jen Atkin's The Ouai line, and this soft, beachy scent takes me back to Summer where I always long to be - when my skin isn't dry and itchy!

3. Charlotte Tilbury Eyeshadow Palette: I've used this palette so often that I forced myself to take a break from it last month, but now is the perfect time for these warm buttery shades. A little goes a long way because they are so pigmented, but they certainly add just the right amount of definition to the eyes.

4. Jo Malone English Pear & Freesia Creme: I keep this in my bag and apply to my hands throughout the day. It's very nourishing without feeling greasy. I linked the large size because the set mine came in sold out during the holidays.

5. Sara Happ Lip Slip: I really can't decide which I prefer more, this or the Laneige Lip Mask, but for the moment this is what I'm reaching for to tame dry lips. It glides on smoothly and just feels SO LUXE. Bonus - it smells divine and lasts for hours.

6. Tarte Exposed Blush: This made all the beauty blogger rounds a few years ago, and it's still one of my favorite Winter blush shades. It brightens up dull, lifeless skin and looks great no matter what other products you use alongside it. Exposed is a timeless neutral blush.

What beauty products are you currently using? I'm always interested to hear what you're loving in Winter. I need all the help I can get!

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Classic Preppy Outfit For Work Or Play

I became drawn to classic preppy style in my 20's when I was in college and interning. It was a very busy time in my life where I wanted to look professional and be taken seriously, but I also wanted to be comfortable while I was commuting to campus. I was doing a lot of presentations and going on various interviews so my wardrobe needed to be functional. It consisted of mostly blazers, sweaters, ballet flats, and either black ponte pants or black jeans depending on the level of formality. Looking back, it was such a period of growth in my life, and it's where i started finding my true personal style. It was powerful in the sense that my new found style gave me confidence. It was liberating because getting dressed each morning wasn't such a chore any longer.

Today, I still reach for many of the same classic preppy pieces. I know I can count on them to look instantly polished with little to no effort. In fact, I've never felt the need to drastically tailor my style between work and play. I've been lucky to work in places that allowed for a more casual dress code, so no need to change much!

Wearing // Similar sweater here & here, Black jeans, Similar cap toe heels here, here & here, Exact bag in different classic colors

Most of the items here are fairly old and no longer available, but that's another bonus of wearing such timeless basics - there are so many similar pieces out there! You can't go wrong with a smart cable knit sweater in a classic shade, and I think most women have a pair of black jeans or pants in their existing wardrobe. This would be appropriate in a lot of work places, but if yours is more formal then you can switch out the jeans for ponte pants like these, or perhaps a pair of gorgeous wide-leg trousers. My favorite part of this look however are the cap toe slingbacks. They are so chic! Reminiscent of Chanel, they tie the outfit together quite nicely. If I still worked in an office, I'd wear some combination of this outfit daily. Since I don't, I'll still pull it out as often as I want!

What's your formula for instant polish, or what pieces do you like wearing to work/school?

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The Monthly Edit // Jan. 2020

"Own The Day"

I'm thrilled that so many of you have enjoyed my monthly edit posts, so I will definitely keep bringing them to you at the end of each month! They're probably my favorite to put together, and I've actually learned a lot about myself in the last year by documenting the things I do, places I go, and even the more mundane aspects of my life. Even if you don't blog, I seriously recommend writing a few things down each month that stood out for you -  it's a great way to put things into perspective, reflect on any areas where you need improvement, or to simply take note of things you are currently grateful for.

I keep hearing people say that January has felt like a lifetime and I sort of agree. After the buzz of the holidays wears off, January can feel like one big hangover. But it's also nice to get back to reality and into a more positive mindset. I was fairly productive this month, and I didn't even put any pressure on myself. I'll take that as a win! Now let me see what else January had in store:

I didn't go on any cleanses or special diet, and I didn't do dry January (although I commend those who did). Instead, Nate and I went to one of our absolute favorite places to eat dinner. I met my friend Gina there before the holidays, and I wanted to go back so badly that we stopped in earlier in the month after the beach.

The nut-crusted baked brie is to die for

I got my balayage freshened up. I always like to start a new year with a solid trip to the salon. I'm going back in a couple days to get a healthy trim as well. My hair gets so heavy that I need some longer layers.

I bought a few things from the Anthropologie sale, including my new day planner that I'm loving! It's a great medium size, and I believe it was under $12.00 after the sale. And really, I need to see those three small words - no, not "I love you" but "own the day" - every damn day.

Other Things of Note:

1. I'm turning the awkward loft space we have in our home into a little office. I bought a small desk and am working on getting a couple pieces to complete the room. I usually blog, write, read, and listen to music in our bedroom but I want a space that's more practical for getting things done. It's hard to do that on the bed or floor of our room! It's also just terrible for my posture. I've also been wanting to take more daily outfit and product photos and the loft has the best lighting in the house. I can't wait until it comes together.

2. Nate secured an office/shop space for his business, and I could not be happier for him! To see his dream become a reality has been inspiring to say the least.

3. Unfortunately, Nettie hasn't had such a fun time. She's been dehydrated and sickly for the past few days, but thankfully she's on medication and is starting to resemble her fun-loving self slowly but surely. We still don't know what the trouble was, but the vet said probably something she ate that didn't sit well.

4. My beautiful lash extensions are no more. Well, mostly. I'm letting them grow and fall out and I have a couple stragglers leftover that makes me look a bit crazed but we're going with it. I bought a new tube of mascara for the first time since August and let me tell you...I'm not impressed.

5. We received a generous gift from my in-laws for Christmas, an air fryer. I must admit, I had no clue what an air fryer was, but now I'm singing its praises. I haven't used our regular oven once this year! It's amazing just how useful it is, and I've been pinning different recipes to try. Let me know if you have one too!

How did January treat you? Please share in the comments, and have a happy weekend!

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