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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #134

Hello All!

Happy Friday! I hope you had a full and successful week! February is flying by which is good for me. January felt wayyyyy longer than I wanted, but February is flying by. I think a lot of that had to do with the fact I have more things on my calendar to look forward to. I got back from a weekend away last weekend and it gave me the energy I needed to make it through the second half of winter. As much as I love to travel, it’s always good to come home and get settled after time off.

My go-to look, all bundled up for winter. Hat, scarf, and puffy jacket!

As we look towards brighter days, here are some things I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea

New Candle Scent– I finished my Emily in Paris candle which I loved and it was time for a new one. I decided to switch it up with a lavender scent to relax and unwind to the start and end of the day. I got this candle from a local candle company. I love to support local businesses whenever I can and this was a great opportunity to do so. The candles come in different size Mason jars which I find so cute. I also love how the scent lingers after you blow it out. This has been a favorite of mine these past few weeks.

Hair Shine Mist- I use a lot of different products in my hair every day and I always like experimenting with new products. I have been trying this shine mist after I’m done doing my hair, before I head out the door. It gives my hair a nice clean look and it smells great too. But I do notice that it adds some shine and volume too. Definitely a win for me when it comes to hair products!

New Apple Watch Band– As i mentioned in my post a few weeks ago, I LOVE my apple watch and wear all day, every day. I typically keep the generic, athletic band on it at all times, but sometimes for work, I want a more professional look. I decided to purchase a gold/leather watch band from Amazon and I have been loving it. It definitely elevates my look and I feel more sophisticated when I wear it. An inexpensive purchase that makes me feel more put together and fashionable.

Back in Action- Have you seen the new movie on Netflix, Back in Action?! It stars Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx. My boyfriend and I recently watched it during a virtual watch party and both really enjoyed it. Was it the greatest movie of all time? No, but was it a good thriller with some good one-liners on Netflix to enjoy for a date night?! Absolutely! The movie follows two spies who get out of the business to start a family only to get pulled right back in years later. Definitely a fun movie to watch for your next night in.

Virtual watch party for the win!

Pomodoro Timer- My friend recommended I try the Pomodoro Timer for work and house projects and it has been super helpful when staying on task. Sometimes, I, like many can get distracted when I’m trying to a task or work and the timer is a great motivator to stay focused and catch your breath every few minutes. This is a great tool if you spend hours at a desk and need a reminder to get moving too.

That’s a look into life this past week and what I’m loving! Some shows, movies, accessories, and beauty items, truly a little bit of everything. I hope you have found something that brought you JOY this past week. Have a fabulous weekend! See you back here on Wednesday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #132

Hello everyone! Happy Friday, it’s the first Friday of February! I know I am happy to see a new month. I love all the things that come with February, more winter fun, Galentine’s Day, Valentine’s Day and Valentine’s Day, plus we are one step closer to Spring!

My pup has been enjoying chilly nights and the warm fire!

Today, I’m linking up with with Erika and Andrea for another round of Friday Favorites! Here’s some things I have been loving this week! This is a fun mix of things I have watched, used, and some life hacks that has made my life a whole lot easier. Warning, we have had a lot of days inside due to cold weather, so this post is heavy with shows and movies to check out. Let’s dive right in!

Martha– A documentary that’s been on my watchlist was Martha. I have always known of and followed Martha Stewart and was excited to see that a documentary about her would be coming out. I got around to watching it after the holidays and really enjoyed it and learned a lot about her. I appreciated how they showed a lot of her early life and how she got her start and shared some of the not so pleasant parts of her life . My favorite part was that it was in her own words. After watching this film, I will definitely be reading her entertaining books. 

Man on the Inside- I know this series has been out for a while but my mom and I got around to watching “A Man on the Inside” starring Ted Danson. It’s all about a man who goes undercover in a retirement home. There were so many older actors and actresses in this series on Netflix and the one-liners and references were incredible. Although, some serious parts, the show had me laughing out loud. An easy watch for winter months. It’s only one season, but a second season is coming soon!

Sweet Magnolias-Another Netflix favorite! Sweet Magnolias is back for a new season. It returned yesterday for season four on Netflix and depending on when you are reading this, I may or may not have started it yet. I’m excited to see where this season takes the women and the drama, love, and stories that come along with it. So many of my shows have new seasons coming out which makes the long winter months go by fast. I’m excited to pass the time by catching up on some of my favorite shows.

Sweat suit– I have been spending so much time indoors due to cold weather and you can tell based on my other favorites. Haha! I have been looking and wearing warmer and cozier apparel. This cream sweat suit from Aerie has been a big favorite of mine. First, I love the color, I don’t have too many creams or whites in my wardrobe, so it’s been a nice change of pace. The material is so soft and it’s presentable enough that you can wear it out and about if you want. All wins in my book for a good outfit!

Extra Work Tote- This has been an unexpected favorite of mine. Besides my purse that I bring into work every day, in the winter I have a more things that I take with me. I have my lunch, shoes to switch into from my boots, a jacket or sweater for layers, a scarf, hat, gloves, and any other odds or ends I may need depending on the day. I found myself lugging in lots of little bags and items every day and it became a hassle. I decided to get a larger recyclable tote that I can put all the small things in every day. This was a small change that has made a huge difference and life a whole lot less stressful. It’s incredible what small changes can do to make life easier.

That’s a look into what I’m loving this week. Lots of warm items and forms of entertainment to keep me busy on chilly days. I’ve also been breaking out some Valentine’s Day decor!

How has the weather been by you? Are you staying warm and cozy? Have a great weekend!

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Fashion

Fall Outfits

Hello all!

Happy Wednesday and Happy October! After holding onto summer for as long as I could, I’m fully committed to fall. The leaves are changing, the mornings are cooler and I’m all about the warm and cozy inside. Since we are in the fall season, I thought it would be appropriate to share some recent fall fashion finds. 

I picked up some of these pieces in the summer and some in the fall and couldn’t wait to wear them. I know these will work both in the fall and winter and will be great transitional pieces too from one season to another. 

Let’s start with a dress! I picked up this short-sleeve dress from Marshall’s on sale. I love to pop into Marshall’s and T. J. Maxx for their work dresses and home decor, I typically go in for one thing and leave with five more, whether it’s clothes, shoes, home decor or even a snack. I always have luck at Marshall’s, T.J. Maxx and Home Goods.  What I love about this dress are the colors (the gray, brown, black and orange are perfect for fall), I love how short-sleeved it is so you can wear it as a transitional dress between seasons or add a blazer to it and I love the style of it. It’s by Calvin Klein and I love the way they fit on me. This dress is a 10 across the board!

I had been on the hunt for a brown blazer to add to my wardrobe. I already have blazers in black, navy, white and red and was looking to add a brown/tan one to my collection for business attire. I got this blazer on sale from J.Crew last summer and couldn’t wait to wear it in the fall. I love the color and texture of the material. I love the cut and style. I actually have it in blue as well, when you like the fit of an item of clothing, there’s no shame in getting it in multiple colors. I appreciate the fact it can be worn with different items. You can pair it with a pair of dress pants, a blouse and flats or pumps. You can also wear it with a skirt and heels. You can wear it over a solid dress, or another twist, wear it with jeans and a top or booties or flats. One blazer and so many different ways to wear it.

Lastly, this black and white polka-dotted long-sleeved top is going to be great for fall and winter. I have so many blouses, but many are short sleeved, which isn’t always helpful in the winter. I have a few long-sleeved blouses and I’m always looking to add more to my collection. This top from Ann Taylor will be paired perfectly with black dress pants and pumps or flats, or it can be worn with a black pencil skirt too. Again, another example of one item of clothing paired multiple ways.

Having a few new items in my closet makes embracing a new season a lot more fun! I love being able to bring back some favorite pieces each season and bring in some new items too! 

Tell me, what fall trends are you looking forward to the most this season? Let me know in the comments below!

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Fashion

Bright, Red Winter Coat Review

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday and Happy November! I can’t believe we are nearing the end of 2022. This year has flown by. I feel like the start of November is the calm before the storm of the holiday season, a time to rest before it’s the race to the finish line. That being said, I hope you all are enjoying this first week of the new month. 

November signals the start of more consistent cold weather on the way which is why it’s crucial to stay warm. I always like to dress in layers since I tend to get cold often and I love to incorporate pieces in my wardrobe that’s both functional and fashionable. A cute fall coat is the perfect solution. 

I picked up this cherry, red coat from Old Navy when I was getting some fall clothes. You may remember the green and the striped shirts I picked up from the same trip. 

There’s so many things that I love about this coat. First, the color, I love a bright, vibrant color in the winter months. There’s a few other color options still available on their website.

I have black dress coats and heavy-duty winter coats along with a trench coat that’s perfect for the fall and spring, but I love how this dress jumps out.

I really like the cut and style, especially the deep pockets. The cut is a bit boxy, which makes it easier for layering.

The versatility is another favorite thing about this winter jacket. You can dress it up with a dress for work or a weekend event, or dress it down with jeans and boots, for a more casual look.

In the colder months, it can be so hard to accessorize your outfits when you want to stay warm. A fashionable coat keeps you warm and is a great way to elevate your outfit.

There you have it, if you are looking for a reason to step out of your comfort zone when it comes to fashion, I hope this encourages you to do so.

Happy Winter Shopping!

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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. 

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Fashion

Amazon Clothes Haul

A few months back I did some Amazon clothes shopping, it was in the middle of the pandemic and I needed to refresh my wardrobe, I have heard great things about Amazon clothes so I decided to give it a try for work dresses. I bought five and here are the results.

  • Orange Dress with Sleeves (this isn’t the exact one but it’s the closest I could find, same brandy but different style). Overall, I was happy with the dress, it wasn’t the material I had in mind, it’s a tighter style and fabric. I really liked the softer orange, I think it was a unique color and it looks great on air. I added a black necklace, earrings and shoes just to add another contrasting color.  Like the neck line and the fact it was a longer dress. I wore it both anchoring and reporting so it can be versatile in what you are doing. It does need hand washed or dry cleaned, just as and FYI, but overall it was happy with the purchase and it’s great for spring and summer.
Orange dress from the summer
  • Teal Dress (this is the dress but long sleeved) I love, love, love this dress. Not only is it easy to move in and comfortable, especially on long days but it also looks super fashionable. The color will catch your eye since it’s bright but not too bright. It also shows up great for camera which is a bonus for me! I also really like the tie on the neckline. I have paired it with nude heels, white heels, and black heels. Since the dress is a solid color, it works great for any pair of shoes! This has been a favorite in my summer wardrobe!
Teal dress from the summer
  • Blue and White Dress (this is my dress) I love, love, love this dress. My favorite part is the neckline, I love the collar and the blue and white colors. It is a perfect dress for spring going into summer or summer going into fall. The cotton material makes it comfortable and easy to move around in, especially for days when I am on the go. It washes easily which is a big plus and it fits true to size. Definitely a great purchase!
Blue and white short sleeve dress from the summer
  • Black and White Dress  (this is my dress) I loved my blue and white dress so much I wanted to get in black and white for fall and winter. I love the collar and the fact it’s long sleeved, perfect for fall and winter. I also like that this dress is made from cotton material which makes it easy to wash and clean, plus it’s comfortable for the long days. It worked perfect for fall and I can’t wait to wear it in the winter, plus it adds a little extra compared to just being a simple black dress. 
Black and white dress for the fall/winter
  • Burgunday Dress (this is my dress) I love the color for fall and winter. It is the same tight/latex-ish material as the orange dress. It is not as comfortable as the black and white dress or the blue and white dress. But I do like the color, and the neckline with the bow at the top and the pockets too!! Although, it’s not my favorite dress, I am happy with the color and to have any extra dress.
Burgundy dress again for the fall and winter

Overall, I was very happy with my purchases from Amazon, given that I bought them in quarantine, I was happy with them all, but I do like going to see and pick out clothes instead of online. I just had a lot of luck at Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx so I can’t wait to try those out. 

That’s just a peak into my closet and my latest buys! Where have you been having luck with fall fashion?!

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Fashion

Look of the Day #133

LOTD

Hey everyone! I have a special look of the day for you today! Today, I’m sharing my graduation look of the day! I wish I had better photos from the day, but I was too busy being present in the moment and enjoying the day. But, I did manage to snap a few quick shots of my outfit before my big day. I couldn’t let the day get by without documenting the look that I wore on graduation day.

I found this dress back in October at Marshall’s. I was hunting for something sophisticated but also something that I could wear more than once. I can wear this dress for Christmas, to work, or to a dinner party. I had looked at the mall and several stores and Marshall’s was my last stop, and I found the perfect dress there. 

I love the material of it and the color of green. I am always on the hunt for green accents and I was so excited I finally found one. My school’s color is green and gold so I couldn’t believe it when I found a dress that was green and gold. The dress is simple and sophisticated and I love the gold accents. I decided to add a green emerald ring and gold earrings. I lasted added a slight heel with a Mary Jane style. These are my favorite heels from Kelly and Katie at DSW. The gold buckle was my favorite part, it brought out the gold in my dress and cap and gown too! 

I loved my dress and I can’t wait to wear this outfit more through the winter months. Sorry for the short but sweet post, but I wanted to share this look with you all. The countdown to Christmas is on!

Enjoy the final push for the holidays. 

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

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Fashion

Look of the Day #131

LOTD

Hey everyone! 


I don’t know about you but I am ready for the holidays. It was so nice to be home for Thanksgiving and to relax and unwind with family, it was a busy but relaxing break. Now I have less than a week until I wrap up classes, finals, and then it’s graduation time. I can’t believe how fast this semester has gone. Truly, I have learned a lot both in and out of the classroom as well as about myself. 

One of my favorite things to do when I am home is get in some retail therapy, whether its’s clothes for work, school, or an occasion, I love seeing what’s new in the stores. I was home a few weeks back and was doing some browsing. I am always on the hunt for new work dresses. Old Navy was having a sale and I knew I had to stop in. I’m so glad I did, because I snagged this dress and it is going to be a must wear in my wardrobe especially for work  in the winter months. 

I wore this outfit for Thanksgiving and I loved how effortless it is, but it still looks put together.

The cut and style of the dress is a favorite of mine. The A-line gives the dress a flattering look. It is professional but also dressy. You can wear this dress to work or to a holiday gathering or office party. This dress is timeless especially with the black and white detailing. 

Due to the chiller weather, I opted for a short black sweater, also from Old Navy. This dress was originally short sleeve so I needed any extra layer and I was happy I chose it. I also made the decision for black tights and a short black heel. These heels are practical and still fashionable with the buckle. Not only are the cute, but also comfortable since they are from Kelly and Katie, I know I can depend on them. 

This will be a go-to outfit in my closet for the winter months. What are some essential outfits in your closet during the winter months?! 

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #129

LOTD

Hey hey everyone! 

Happy Thursday! I can’t believe the holidays are quickly approaching. Halloween was just a few weeks ago, Thanksgiving is in a few weeks and then we are into the Christmas season. Have you started your Christmas shopping? I know, I have not. I have some ideas but haven’t started the shopping yet. That will come soon enough. The one thing that comes with the holidays are all the holiday parties, whether it’s through work or school or friends, nothing brings people together than a party.

Today’s outfit is perfect as we get ready for the cold weather. I have recently been wearing a lot of blacks and grays, I think this is due to the gray and cloudy weather I have been experiencing. This outfit would be perfect if you are running errands or out and about. Pieces of this outfit could even be used for a holiday party. Let’s get to the details. 

I LOVE this black turtleneck sweater, I adore it so much that I have one in pink too. It is warm, made from good material, and can be dressed up or down, wear it with jeans, leggings, dress pants or even a skirt, there are truly so many options. I opted to wear this black turtleneck from GAP with a pair of houndstooth leggings. 

I got these leggings from Old Navy, I love the houndstooth print. It reminds of a classy and European style. I have worn this leggings with a red blazer for a dressier holiday look and heels, which worked great. But for today’s look I went for a simple look of the leggings with the sweater. 

Lastly, I opted for my high black boots. I love the heel and how they tie my whole outfit together. I got these boots from Marshalls last year and they are holding up great for year two!

This outfit feels very wintery to me. I love the darker colors for the darker weather, but I also like how it feels very warm and cozy too. How are you prepping your wardrobe for the colder weather?

Have a wonderful weekend!!