"Ditch the dream and be a doer, not a dreamer" -Shonda Rhimes
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Author: elspeththeblogger
My name is Elspeth. I'm young professional living life one day at a time. I have a passion for fashion, a love for living a clean and healthy life and I can organize anything.
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Look of the Day #23
LOTD
Today’s look is another perfect fall outfit. I wore it for a presentation in class and it worked great serving its purpose. This look is more on the formal side but can be dressed up or down depending on what accessories you include.
Let’s start at the top. This cropped black jacket is a favorite of mine for fall and winter. It is thicker which works great for the upcoming cold months. It also has a bit of a sporty look to it which can really change and outfit.
I have worn this silk top before from Francesca’s with a pair of jeans but I’m wearing it again to show it in a different look. The pinks and purples add a pop of color to the outfit. The top is ¾ length sleeves which is great for fall.
I got these faux leather leggings from Target. They have an Aztec print on them and are super comfortable but my favorite part is that they don’t even look like leggings. I love the faux leather look and they add a new dimension to the outfit besides wearing just a plain pair of black leggings.
These are the first time you are seeing these high black leather boots on me but it won’t be the last. These are my favorite fall/winter boots. The look great with jeans, leggings, even a cotton dress or skirt. Throw on a pair of over the knee socks and you got yourself a complete outfit. In the winter i wear boots all the time. Having cute boots, really complete an outfit.
Well, there you have it my look from head to toe. I hope you find some inspiration with it. Happy Thursday!
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A Day in the Life
Wanna know what a typical Tuesday is like for a college student? Well, you are in luck. I documented through photos a day in the life (last Tuesday 10/10/17.) Granted, every day is different and unexpected things happen but, here’s a peak into my life. Just a warning! I’m not that exciting! Today was pretty average, some days are busier than others.
Breakfast after quiet time. I am into milk and dry cheerios right now. Healthy and hearty. I eat while I am starting on work.
Getting some blogging done, emails returned, and editing papers for classes. If I have any tests, I do a quick review too. This time allows me to get some work done without distractions. Also, if something comes up I have some spare time to fit it in.
After getting caught up and ready for the day. It’s time for a little down time before the day begins. I’m currently binge watching Friends, and I’m loving every minute of it. Plus the 20 minute episodes are perfect for a little tv time.
Class #1 for the day. Children and the Media Studies. We had group presentations on research studies. My group went today and it was a successful class.
Class #2 Creative Writing, in class we talked about Micro fiction and Fantasy vs. Reality.
Lunch Break!! For lunch I ate pasta and broccoli. A balanced meal in the middle of the day.
Notice how I haven’t mentioned the gym yet? That’s because due to a full day on Tuesdays and Thursdays I don’t go to the gym in the morning. I try not to overbook myself and leave free time in my day if I need it. Also I give my body a break after working out every other day. I do go to my Pound Rockout Work out class at 5:00 when I can make it on Tuesdays where I am heading now. Beautiful day on campus.
So from 7:00-9:00 is a bit of a blur. I finished homework, got organized for the next day and went over what things I had planned. I showered and relaxed. I even watched another episode of Friends which doesn’t happen often. It was nice to have an easier day and with my class being cancelled I got more done!
And good night. I try to go to bed between 10:30-11:00. It doesn’t always happen, on days when i can get to sleep a few minutes earlier…I love it!
And there you have it! That’s a typical Tuesday for me, classes, work, friends, unexpected surprises, There is never a normal day. The day when I am not running in three different directions, is when you should be worried about me. If you are ever not feeling productive. Just document your day and you will see how much you get done. Trust me, you will be surprised.
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Look of the Day #22
LOTD
Today’s outfit is all about taking neutral pieces and putting them all together in a chic outfit. We all have simple pieces in our closets but we never think to wear them together. Today, I’m going to show you how. Wearing all these pieces alone makes your outfit bland but tying them all together with a few accessories makes everything better. This outfit is perfect for college students heading to class. Heading to a fall festival? A pumpkin patch? Or a day shopping? This outfit would work great for any fall activity. Everything I am wearing are all neutral, fall colors and I’m sure you have these pieces or ones similar in your own closets. Here’s what you need to make this outfit work for you.
- Black leggings or pants even jeans if you like. Whatever you feel most comfortable in. I get my leggings from GAP.
- White t shirt (long or short it’s up to you. I wore a short sleeve shirt since it warmed up in the afternoon. I get my white t shirts anywhere. Whoever has the best sale wins.
- Light jacket or coat. I got this tan jacket from Old Navy and it is perfect for fall or spring. A jean jacket or leather jacket would work great as well.
- Little booties (a must have for fall, I love these suede wedges but brown, black even peep toes shoes can work great). I got these last year from Shoe Carnival.
- A scarf to tie the whole outfit together. This scarf is from Old Navy has the black, white, and brown to tie the whole outfit together.
Alone all these pieces are simple, solid colors but get a scarf, fun jewelry or even a pop of color and you are set to go. I didn’t spend a penny on this outfit this season. It was all things I already had in my closet. Sometimes we forget what we have in our closet and we want to buy something new. However, if we take a few extra minutes we can be creative and make our own outfits. I hope this inspires you to think out of the box when it comes to fashion. Who knows your next favorite outfit may be your own creation.
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Fall Favorites
I saw this Q&A for fall on two other blogs I follow, The Blended Blog and A Little Bit of Everything Blog. I love fall and everything that comes along with it. Thanks so much for the great fall idea questions. Here are a few of my favorite things about fall.
- Favorite Fall Sweet Treat?
Candy apples or apple crisp
2. Red, yellow, or green apples?
Red
3. Favorite Fall Sport to Play?
I don’t play but I will watch countless soccer games or go to football games.
4 .Best drinks for Fall?
Hot Apple Cider
5. Favorite Fall Activity?
Going on walks with the leaves fall or going to any fall festival
6. Must have Fall Purchase?
Sweaters!!
7. Pumpkins? Pick your own or Store bought?
I would love to pick my own but I don’t always have the time, so store bought it is.
8. Real or fake pumpkins?
A few real pumpkins but more fake ones.
9. Favorite Halloween Costume?
Last year I went as Sandy from Grease. BEST. COSTUME. EVER.
10. College Football of NFL?
I watch both but you will find me rooting more for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
11. Fall or Halloween Decor?
Fall decorations. They last longer, I shared my fall decorating tips so you can see more here.
12. Raking Leaves or no Leaves to Rake?
Raking Leaves
13. Favorite Soup?
Nothing says fall like chicken noodle soup.
14. Favorite Fall Candle Scent?
Anything Apple and Cinnamon,
15. Love or Hate Pumpkin Spice?
Not a fan, I will have a small slice of pumpkin pie but that’s about it.
16. Short booties or Tall booties?
Short booties all fall long!
17. Favorite Halloween Candy?
M&M’s. I don’t feel as guilty eating them. HAHAHA
18. PSL (Pumpkin Spice Latte) Yes or No?
Nope, not a starbucks or coffee fan. Sorry.
19. Hayride or Cornmaze?
Hayride!
20. Favorite Fall TV Show?
I can’t choose just one. I’m a big lover of tv, I would rather watch it live then binge watch it. This fall I’m watching This Is Us, SEAL TEAM, and the TGIT lineup which includes Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, and How to Get Away with Murder. My tv time is my me time.
Well, there you have it. My favorite things about fall. What are some of your favorite things about fall?
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Look of the Day #21
LOTD
Looking for a quick and effortless outfit to throw together for a lunch date? Want to be cute and comfortable? I have the perfect outfit for you. This outfit is simple enough to wear while traveling and still look cute when you arrive. I recently wore this outfit to class and I loved how I could still look cute, matching, while not breaking the bank.
I don’t shop at Forever 21 a lot but, when I do I typically get classic black and white t shirts and black leggings. These are staples in my wardrobe since they are simple colors that can be worn with every outfit. In today’s look everything I’m wearing is from Forever 21.
Let’s start from the top with this light, caramel sweater. This light sweater is perfect for wearing alone or layered. I have a lot of ideas of how to layer this sweater for fall so stay tuned. This sweater came in a lot of colors but I decided to go with neutral color since I can match it with a lot of things.
In the past, I have worn this outfit with a pair of black dress pants to dress it up. However, on this day I had a long day filled with a lot of running around so I opted to go for a pair of leggings.
My shoes are my favorite part of the outfit. Ballet flats are a hit or miss for me. But, when I saw these tan and black flats I knew I had to get them. This also went perfect with this outfit so I was more than happy when I got them. Pair this outfit with a simple brown clutch and some gold earrings and you will be good to go on the go.
Happy Weekend Friends!
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Fall Decorating
When it comes to fall decorating I try to decorate for the whole season of fall not just Halloween. Although, I’m all about the candy, the costumes, and the scary decorations, Halloween only lasts for one day when autumn last for months. I try not to go over board when decorating for each season. I like to have small reminders of the new season around my dorm/house.
Today, I am going to be sharing my decorations at home and at school that I have up for fall. Let’s start with school. I got these cute decals for my window at Target in the dollar section. I put them up in the beginning of October and take them down the day after Halloween. They are a simple reminder of Halloween without overdoing it.
I also keep my candy dish filled with Halloween candy for anyone who stops by. I also try to get a small pumpkin to have out just to add a bit more fall feeling to the room. It’s still a bit early so I haven’t gotten my pumpkin yet but when I do, I will be sharing pictures!
Now, for at home here are a few areas that are always decorated season long for fall. At home we (my mom and I) try to reuse decorations from last year but we do upgrade a few decorations each year. Centerpieces are crucial when decorating. They make the table, more than just a place to eat. Since it’s fall we used a lot of pumpkins, we have them spaced out through the house so it’s not overwhelming. Below are some of my favorite spaces at home for decorations. We tried to incorporate pumpkins in different ways and settings.
I hope this gave you so inspiration for fall decorating. Happy Tuesday!
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Look of the Day #20
LOTD
It’s officially fall! I love the leaves changing, the crisp air and the smell of apples all season long. But, as soon as the first snow fall hits, I am in the Christmas spirit. Thankfully, we have a few more months until it’s time for Christmas carols and sleigh bells.
Fall weather means it’s time for shoe boots, comfy sweaters, and hot apple cider. This outfit is perfect for an autumn walk or pumpkin carving. Although, you can’t see my shoes I wore a simple black, wedges shoe boot. These are my favorite shoe boots that I wear in the fall and winter. The heel is big enough to a long pair of jeans or a simple black skirt. I got these jeans from Old Navy. Old Navy is my go to for jeans, I love all the unique styles they have and there so many options that you can find one that fits your style and look. I am wearing the boot cut style in this picture and it works perfect for heeled shoe or boot. I got this black turtleneck sweater from GAP a few years ago both in black and a fuchsia pink. They are staples in my wardrobe for fall and winter. They are warm and comfortable but are also unique with the neck. A long necklace would make a perfect statement piece with this sweater. It’s also thick enough that you don’t need to wear another layer in the warmer fall weather. I am obsessed with hats this year, from monogrammed baseball hats, to floppy summer hats, and panama hats. I found this cowboy style hat on sale from DSW and I had to get it. It completes this outfit perfectly and I have found other outfits that I can add it to.
Finally, I have my hot drink in my hand, whether you are a #PSL girl or a hot apple cider girl like myself, a warm drink is crucial for fall. Speaking of which, I hope you are reading this blog with your favorite fall drink. Happy Thursday and TGIT (Thank God it’s Thursday)…if you get that reference I hope you are as pumped for tonight as I am!!!
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Pound Rockout Workout Class
With a new semester comes a new fitness routine. I am still going to the gym three mornings a week before class and on the weekends. But, I like to try new things which helps break up my routine. My college campus always has new fitness classes and activities. They offer Zumba, Kickboxing, Yoga and this year they introduced Pound Rockout Workout. It’s a fast-paced class filled with a full body cardio workout and drumming.
I was hesitant at first to try it, but my best friend and fitness motivator Shalyn convinced me to go and boy am I glad she did. Fun fact; we randomly match most of the time we are at the gym and it’s totally not planned. This is one of those times. It was pretty surprising we can workout that afternoon and be back in the gym at 7:00 the next morning.
It was a 30-minute work out that got me sweating. The class was at 5:00 which I really liked. I had tried Zumba before but it was from 9-10 at night and I didn’t like working out so late. I like to start my day with a workout not end my day with one. The music was fast paced and got me rocking. Each week we stick (no pun intended) to the same routine and songs but every few months she changes up some of the moves or songs. The class focused on a core workout, lunges, squats and got us moving. We used drum sticks to hit the air or floor. After a long day or classes and work, it was a great and healthy way to release the stress and tension I had in me. It was definitely a workout and I felt the effects the next day (or two).
Whether you have a Pound Rockout Workout Class near you or not, it’s always good to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Try a yoga class or spin class. You never know if you will like something until you try it. My goal this school year is to say yes to more things (another blog post for later) and this class is just one example of that. I said yes to something new and I was so glad I did. Thank you Shay for taking me to class and sweating it out with me. It won’t be my last time there.
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Look of the Day #19
LOTD
Are you in search for a casual but sporty look for the fall? I have just the outfit for you today. I threw this outfit together one Saturday when it was warm in the morning but cool at night. Last week, I shared how I try to stick to wearing colors perfect for fall and this is another example.
Let’s break down this outfit starting from the bottom. Because it’s still early fall, converse are still acceptable, in a few weeks it will be time for boots, short and tall. I wore leggings with this outfit since I was out and about but, black jeans or black pants work just as well. I got this leggings from GAP, I love how thick they leggings are and they last a long time. In any season, I try to keep my pants a neutral color so I can have more fun with the top and accessorizing it. My burgundy sheer top is from Tilly’s. It has three-quarter length sleeves so it works nicely in transitional weather. Because the top is sheer I typically wear a tank top underneath. My sweater is also from Tilly’s. The is one of my favorite dark sweaters to wear in the fall and winter. It’s over-sized so it covers not only your top but leggings and booty as well. I don’t always wear long sweaters since I’m short but if I find one that fits well, then I buy it. Plus they work great for leggings. Since I am wearing a lot of dark colors I decided to wear a long gold necklace from Francesca’s as well as gold earrings to break up the color scheme.
That’s what I am wearing today, I hope this gave you some ideas to step out of your comfort zone when it comes to clothes. Have a beautiful fall weekend.