Tag: fashion blog

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Fashion

Summer Dress Round-Up

Hi everyone! 

Happy August! 

As we make our way through the final month of summer,  I wanted to share a roundup of my favorite summer dresses that I have been wearing this summer for work. I found all of these dresses at Marshall’s, T.J. Maxx, and Ross’ and most of the dresses are from great designer brands, hello Calvin Klein!! These stores are my go-to stores for professional work dresses. You can find the latest styles and sizes at an affordable price. 

I also love to change up the colors and brands I wear and Marshall’s, T.J. Maxx, and Ross’ make it easy for me to do that.

 

Here’s a look at my favorite summer dress so far:

I love a bright pink dress and this one does the trick. It’s a Calvin Klein dress. I also have it in a dark green that I have worn in the fall and winter months, but I love the pink for the warmer seasons. The cuffed sleeves and raspberry color are some of my favorite parts about this dress. You can wear it to work, church or even out to dinner or a cocktail hour. I also like that it goes just above your knee, a great length for women of any age. I opted for a pair of nude heels with this dress.

Bright pink to kick off summer!

If you are looking for a more flowy dress to have some fun in, this blue and white polka dotted dress is for you. It is a bit longer, but I have worn white heels, while flats, even sandals with it. I’ve even changed into sneakers to do lots of walking and it’s one of those dresses that can work with sneakers.  The dress is by Anne Klein. The material is a bit thinner and softer which is perfect for the hot and humid days. I often wear this dress when temperatures hit the 90’s or higher.  This dress would be great for work, church, a baby or bridal shower or even a date night. I decided to wear a pair of white pumps from DSW from a brand that I’m loving!

A perfect polka-dotted dress.

From pink to blue and now green. One of my favorite parts of this dress by Calvin Klein is the sleeves and the color! I love a good teal dress and don’t have any other dresses in this color.  It’s a great mix of blue and green, but the hooded sleeves is a favorite of mine. I don’t have any other dresses or tops with these types of sleeves. This dress is one of those that can really be dressed up for a summer date night, church, even a wedding with the right jewelry and shoes. It’s also…so it’s the same material and length (just above the knee) as the raspberry dress. I wore a pair of nude heels that I got from DSW as well.

Going green for summer.

This next summer outfit is one of my FAVORITES. After months of searching, I finally found a professional jumpsuit. I have a casual jumpsuit from Old Navy that I wear on weekends, but I was looking for the right fit and style for work. Jumpsuits can be tricky to make sure it fits properly in the legs, and torso. This baby blue jumpsuit it by, you guessed it, Calvin Klein. I really love how the dresses fit on me and the quality of them too. Once I find a designer I like I try to find other dresses or outfit from the same brand.

My favorite summer outfit!!!

Now, back to this jumpsuit…I really love the pale blue color since I don’t have any other tops or dresses in this color. I really like how the neckline is a bit different too. I’m not a huge fan of V-necks, but I liked how this one fit on me. The legs have a bit of flair to them so finding shoes may be the trickiest part. I opted for a pair of nude stilettos. I have worn this dress to work and a wedding. It’s definitely dressy enough for a wedding, a date night or even a girls night. I would recommend a thin heel to offset the flair of the pants. This has been a favorite summer outfit of the summer. 

Taking a break from my love for Calvin Klein, this soft blue, almost lavender dress is by Tommy Hilfiger. There are two things I really love about this dress. First the unique color. It’s a soft lavender with a tint of blue. I also love the flowy sleeves, since they are a bit dramatic, simple jewelry would go best with this dress. This dress would work great in the spring and summer from church or work. I also wore my white heels with this dress.

I love the soft color of this dress.

I always love dresses that can be worn in different seasons and this one checks the boxes. This soft tan dress from Calvin Klein has short sleeves that allow the dress to be worn in the summer months. I opted for a pair of nude pumps to match the dress, but it can be worn in winter too. You can add a black blazer, wedges, or black heels and wear it from October to February. I really love the neckline with this dress and I love the versatility of it too. This would be a great dress to wear to work or an interview or a networking or social event. I paired this nude dress with a pair of nude heels.

A dress for any season!

That’s a wrap of my favorite summer dresses so far. From different colors, to styles and brands. I really love that I can get all these name brands dresses at affordable prices from stores close by. If you are searching for some new dresses to add to your wardrobe don’t forget to check out, Marshall’s, T.J. Maxx or Ross’, you never know what treasures you will find! Happy Shopping!

Categories
Fabulous living

5 Years of Writing

5 years…every week for the past five years, I’ve sat down and opened my laptop and began to write. 

Some days, it was therapeutic to put into words what’s been on my mind, other days I got to talk about things I’m passionate about, like products, books, or movies.

 I’ve written about outfits I’ve put together and mixing and matching different pieces to keep things affordable.

I’ve written about how to keep your spaces clean whether it’s your dorm room, car, or daily planner.

I’ve written about trips I’ve taken, or bucket lists I’ve made and things I’ve accomplished. It’s amazing that just when I think so don’t have any more ideas, something new comes to mind. Over 350 posts and counting.

When I started my blog at the end of my freshmen year of college, I was looking for a creative outlet. I was homesick and I was searching for a hobby and decided why not write. My blog was a way to keep family members and friends in the loop about what I was doing and as a way to express myself.

A look at some of my first posts.

I looked forward to sharing different outfits and life hacks each week. As I grew up and matured, so did my blog. I changed the style and content as I made my way through college and graduated. If you have been following since the very beginning, you know there’s been changes with color schemes and the days I posted and even some of the topics. It’s been fun to look back and see how far I have come since May 2017.

Another throwback to one of my first outfits.

I learned balance with my blog as I started my first job. Every weekend I always looked forward to working on something creative and fun, especially as our world changed with the pandemic. Even with all the unknowns and at sometimes darkness, my blog was a bright spot for me and hopefully for others. 

From college to my first day of work

I’ve learned a lot about myself these past five years. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be vulnerable and share what’s on your mind, whether it’s about eating alone or transitioning from college to working. I’ve learned the importance of making time for yourself and finding joy every day, whether it’s through journaling or walks or cooking.

Enjoying the simple things in life like apple picking has been something I’ve leaned into more these past few years.

While I’ve learned a lot so far, I know I still have a ways to go. I’m excited to see what this next year brings. My hope is that it brings more life lessons, more memories, and most importantly, little moments that bring joy every day.

 To those who read my blog posts when I started writing them sitting in my college dorm room, thank you for sticking with me! And, to those who started following along as I now write them on weekend with my dog curled up on my lap back home, thank you for stopping by.

I hope my blog brings you a little bit of joy, like it does for me every day.

Here’s to a new year, a new chapter, and taking life one day at a time.

xoox

Elspeth

Categories
Fabulous living

Blog Anniversary

Hi everyone!

Happy Wednesday…I can’t believe I am typing this, but it’s my blog-anniversary.

I’ve been sharing bits and pieces of my life for the past four years, from college musings, to first time jobs, outfits, ways to organize, travel diaries, fitness routines, friends, family moments and more. 

When I first started my blog, I used it as a way to keep busy and have a creative outlet and it has given me that and so much more! It’s been fun to look and back and read some of my earlier posts to my posts today. In some ways I haven’t changed at all, in other ways I have grown a lot. 

In honor of my four years of blogging, I’m sharing some of my favorite posts of the past year.

Throughout the past year, my life has revolved around work, family time, trying new hobbies like reading and cooking, continuing to build friendships and relationships and of course the pandemic. 

Here are some of my favorite posts from the past year. 

Since work was a huge part of my life, it only makes sense that one of my favorite posts was about a day in my work life. To get a sneak peek into my work life, you can read about it here.

Working the anchor desk this weekend.

Sticking with news, December marked one year since I started working in news, so I did a post about what it’s been like along with some of my favorite stories. You can learn more about that post here.

New year, new head shots

Something that goes along with work is fashion. Since I have to dress up every day, I’ve enjoyed shopping for cute and affordable outfits and dresses. During the pandemic, Amazon was a huge help for finding dresses, here are some of my favorite looks. You can see them here.

One of my latest Amazon finds.

One of my favorite hobbies this past year has been learning to cook and bake. You can check out my Instagram stories to see my latest recipes. In the fall, I went apple picking and made a ton of apple recipes. Here are three of my favorites.  

Lots of apples equals lots of recipes.

Organization is another big part of my life. Establishing routines and habits are a game changer for a smooth day. I shared some of my favorite routines that you can read about here.

Staying organized keeps my life in order

The biggest thing that dominated my life both personally and professionally was the pandemic. I shared what the past year was like for me here.

The new normal while working, masks and all

And last but certainly not least, I was so happy to finally give my blog upgrade thanks to my friend Marley! You can read all about the upgrade here.  

New logo and branding

This year has been very different than I planned but I was so happy with everything I did this past year. In the next year, I’m hoping to have more travel diaries, more recipes, more adventures and more time with family, friends and loved ones. 

Thank you to everyone who has read, followed along and supported me. Whether this was your first time or you have been reading since Day 1, I’m so happy to have you along with me. Here’s to a new year!

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Currently

Currently #14

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! This past month was packed and I can’t wait to update you all with all the new things going on. 

What I’m up to: This past month has been busier for work, I just finished a big project which was happy to get it done and see the end result. It’s been a cold month, so I have spent a lot of time inside, watching tv and doing lots of reading and doing some projects around the house as well as catching up with friends too!

My finished work project

What I’m wearing: It all depends on how bad the weather is. If it’s super cold, then it’s pants and sweaters and lots of layers. If it’s warmer, and by warmer, I mean above 30 degrees, then I brave the weather with a dress and tights. On days off, it’s a lot of leggings and hoodies or sweaters. 

What I’m reading: I have been doing so well with my reading this year. I have read 5 books so far. I keep a running list of books of my story called 2021 Books. If you are looking for new books to read this is a starting spot. I also have been doing a book club with my two high school friends, Maddie and Ryan, we have been making our way through a different book each month. We just finished Pride by Ibi Zoboi, which is a modern twist of Pride and Prejudice. It’s been so fun to read new books and share them with friends too!

I have also read, Make Room for What You Love by Melissa Michaels, it’s a book about organizing your home, keeping it clean and establishing new routines too. I already do many of the practices in the book, but it was still fun to learn new things.

Another book I read was, Traveling Light by Max Lucado. It broke down Psalm 23, “The Lord is my Shepherd” and had guided meditations and stories to go alongside them. Stay tuned for what I’m reading this month.

What I’m Watching: I finished Virgin River which was a lighter show to watch. It was nice to watch something that didn’t require my attention the full time.

I have been watching some movies here and there. I just started a new series, Lupin, on Netflix. If you are looking for mystery, suspense with lots of twists and turns, this is the show for you.

What I’m Loving: I’m loving reconnecting with old friends. This past month, I have gotten coffee with lifelong friends, I’ve been staying close with high school friends thanks to our book club, I have also stayed close with college friends with monthly facetime dates. Staying consistent with friends has been a new year’s resolution and I’m happy to report that I’m doing very well with it so far this year.

What Inspires Me: I’m inspired by food, not trying to be funny, but I have been doing a lot of cooking and have loved finding new recipes and trying them out. I have made soups, pastas, chicken dishes, and more. Every time I try something new, I love the sense of accomplishment with cooking and trying something new. My Let’s Get Cooking Posts has all the recipes there.

My latest pasta and shrimp recipe

What I accomplished: My work schedule has changed a bit, so I had to get adjusted to a new routine. One thing I really like about it is getting more family time. It’s the little things like that make the cold and gloomy days filled with sunshine. I also have really enjoyed getting started with my new year’s resolutions too!

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Last month was all about establishing new routines, I added some new rhythms in my daily schedule, and I am loving the results I’m seeing so far. By adding more reading and friend time, it has made me more well-rounded and lead a more balanced life. I also wanted to start cooking more and I have found a real passion and love for it. I can’t wait to try new recipes.

Baking on days off

Goals for the New Month: I know it’s still cold outside, but I want to make a point more to get outside and get more fresh air. I am also looking for a new project to tackle, I’m not sure what it will be yet, but I love getting creative with different projects. 

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #132

LOTD

Hi All! 

Since my last post, I have finished finals, finished work and have been packing and saying my goodbyes at school. It’s been a different week with no set schedule or routine, by I am taking it for what it is and enjoying all my moments at school. I can’t believe that I am days away from graduation… it is quite a surreal feeling. One thing that I have taken away from my time at college is to always dress for success and the appropriate ways to dress for an interview or work. 


Today, I’m showing an outfit that is perfect for a job interview. It is professional and appropriate. Before, I get into the details, here are a few tips for dressing for an interview

-Keep your makeup simple and soft, don’t overdo it. You are going to get a job, not a date out with friends. 

-The same goes for outfit choice, you want to choose an outfit that’s modest and appropriate.

-Always be prepared for any interview, bring your resume and reference with you as well as something to write with and a planner to be prepared.

-Do your research on the company you are interviewing at and don’t forget some questions too.

Now, onto the outfit. This is perfect for an interview or first day of work. 

Job interview…check!

I got this outfit from all different stores, but they all fit great together.

 First, these pants are from Talbots, I like the cut and style of the pant. They are a straight cut that go right to the ankle, which allows you to wear a small pump or heel. I opted for the same heels I wore for Thanksgiving. A simple black heel with a gold buckle. Kelly and Katie are my go-to for good quality shoes. It looks professional but it also adds length to your overall outfit. 

My black top, is a short sleeveless blouse from Francesca’s Boutique. I often wear it in the summer, but I opted for the outfit since it matches the pants and the blazer. 

This blazer is one that I wear often for formal occasions. I got it from Marshalls a few years back and I have worn it with dresses, jeans, and dress pants to fit any outing that I have. 

When I wore this outfit, I felt put together and professional-two big things to keep in mind for job interviews and work. 

Well, I am hours away from graduation day. I am planning on enjoying my last few days as a college student before it’s time for something new. I will see you back here on Tuesday for a very special post.

Until then, xoxo

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #108

LOTD 

Hey guys! How has your summer been? Busy? Restful? Mine is going wayyyy to fast, I need it to slow down. HAHA! I’ve been trying to slow down on nights and during the weekends but it’s easier said than done. Can anyone relate?! Today’s look of the day is another one for the office. The older I get, the more I choose clothes are that used more for the professional setting than casual. Gone are the summer days of shorts and t-shirts. Dress pants and dresses are what I’m rocking nowadays. 

All blue every day

I started today’s look with a pair of dress navy blue pants from The Limited, they are great quality and can be worn in so many settings. You may remember, I wore them this past spring for a few award ceremonies I had. A pair of navy-blue trousers are a must for your wardrobe. 

I opted to wear them with a pair of navy-blue sling back heels I got from T.J. Maxx, what I love about these shoes is that they give you a little bit of height but nothing extreme, you can wear them all day and still be comfortable. 

Lastly, since my pants and shoes were so dark, I decided to add a lighter top to the mix. You may remember this top from Old Navy when I wore it in the winter with dark jeans and knee-high boots. This is light gold top that really dresses up an outfit. I wore it today with a much lighter look. I love shirts that are versatile. ‘

We love an outfit with versatility

That’s another look into what I am wearing. I promise to have more fun outfits for the weekend, but for now, I hope this shows how you can dress both professional while still looking cute!