Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #51

LOTD

Hi All!

I’m super excited for today’s post….wanna guess why?! First, I’m hours away from being done with my sophomore year of college. Only one final today and although, I am working till Saturday it will good just to hang out with friends for a few days before summer starts. Second, it FINALLY feels like Spring. Yes, this whole week has been in the 70’s and 80’s. I am so happy, to be finally wearing shorts and short sleeve shirts. This winter has been too long! Spring is here and have never been happier!

Springing into Spring

Now, onto this springy outfit. I wanted to wear an outfit that could work both in the chilly morning but warm afternoon. I got these shorts from Old Navy. I love Old Navy’s shorts. There are not only comfortable, but they are a good length. Not too long and not too short. I got these pair in black and tan, so I can wear them with a variety of tops. I got my black and white ¾ length shirt from Old Navy as well. I have worn it with jeans or leggings in the past, but I love wearing it with a pair of shorts. I am always cold and try to wear a sweater with most outfits, this long sleeve shirt does the trick for solving that issue.

Lastly, my shoes are my go-to converse for spring. They are not only cute but also comfortable. And matched my outfit great for my black and white combo.

I am so happy spring finally sprung, its time for good vibes only once I am done with this last final. I cant wait to start dressing more springy now that it is finally acting like spring. To all the moms out there have a wonderful and hopefully relaxing day with your kiddos!

See you next week for a VERY special post.

Categories
Fabulous living

Love the Season You are In

Hi Everyone!!

These past few weeks have been super busy and have flown by. Right now, I am in the midst of finals week and finishing up work before it’s officially summer. And by summer I mean, I finish my one job on Saturday and start my summer job and internship on Monday. Yes, I am busy. But, I am loving these last few weeks of school, classes are finishing up and I’m saying some hard goodbyes to a lot of my friends who are graduating. Needless to say, it’s a bittersweet time.

I did want to take a moment to reflect on enjoying where I am in life. I was recalling a passage from Emily Ley’s book, Grace Not Perfection…she spoke about the importance of loving the season you are in through life. I think that is so important. Whether you are a senior in high school, a college student getting ready to take on a career for the first time, or a mom balancing three different spring sport schedules, enjoy the season you are in.

There are often so many times when I find myself remembering past memories or getting excited about the future that I forget to live in the present moment and enjoy where I am in life. I also find myself sometimes wishing away stressful moments or long days only to find that I will miss the days of the past. It’s funny sometimes the days that I dread or I get overwhelmed about, I end up making the most memories. The same goes for moms juggling different spring sports and graduations, yes it is stressful but at one point, there will be no more carpooling or graduation parties and the house will be quiet once again. Same goes for college students, finals may be taking over your life but don’t let that stop you from creating memories with your true friends. You are only in college once.

What is the point of me saying all this?! Enjoy where you are in life. Yes, it may not be perfect, it may be messy, exhausting, and overwhelming but it’s life and it only happens once. Embrace the disorder and chaos and live for the moment. Instead of taking selfies of the exciting moments, be present for them instead.

Life is all what you make of it. Make your life memorable.

Sorry for a shorter post, but these past few weeks have been busy. Looking forward to writing more this summer.  Until then…

xoxo

Ending this post with my favorite Office quote that I remind myself of daily. Live for today.
Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #50

LOTD

Happy Thursday or as I like to call it…Friday EVE!

I’m super excited about sharing this outfit with you today mostly because it’s a perfect weekend outfit.  This is my last official weekend on campus before the end of the semester. How I will be spending it??? Preparing for finals and hanging out with friends!

It’s friday eve!!

This outfit is perfect for some fun weekend vibes. First, I love this shirt. It most definitely screams weekend!! I got it from Francesca’s a few years ago so they may not sell it but I love how simple it is and you can’t beat the cute FRI-YAY!

I have worn this shirt previously with shorts in the summer or jeans in the fall. I can’t wait to wear it more in the summer. Although, it is May, it has been still pretty chilly out…c’mon! I am beyond ready for spring!! I wore these fun Aztec print pants from Francesca’s as well. Rather than wearing jeans or leggings I wanted to bring in a new pattern to my outfit.

Of course, no outfit of mine would be complete without a sweater…yes even in May I am always cold especially in air conditioned buildings. I got mine from Tilly’s and I love the big sweater feel it gives but I am on the hunt for some cute cardigans for summer. I also wore my converse to top the outfit off.

Although, I love my whole outfit put together, the shirt is my favorite. What is your weekend necessity? Here’s to hoping the weather gets warm and stays warm!!!

Have a beautiful weekend!!

 

 

Categories
Fabulous living

Slowing Down and Self Care

Happy Tuesday. How was your weekend? Restful and relaxing, I hope.

We are down to the final countdown for summer and I can’t wait. Between classes and work, I am ready for a break. That brings me to today’s topic. Taking care of yourself, even if it means saying no. Kinda ironic, last week, I shared the importance of saying yes and stepping out of your comfort zone, but today, it’s the opposite. I often find myself  getting run down and tired this time of year, that’s why self-care is important now more than ever. Between finals, projects, and summer activities upon us, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and stressed out. The same goes for parents, school is winding down, which means trying to figure out summer plans for children along with summer schedules.

This past year, I got very busy, between classes, work, and maintaining friendships, I was running myself into the ground. I realized I had to take care of myself so I could be the best version of myself.  I have carved times in my schedule to set aside for myself. For example, every Sunday, I try to take a break from homework and spend time either reading or watching a movie or whatever I wanted, unscheduled. I always like to leave from 2:00-4:00 open for myself, it doesn’t always happen but I try my best to make it work. These two hours gives me time to recharge myself for the week ahead. If you don’t have two hours to block out for yourself, don’t worry. Maybe block out 15 minutes of your day everyday. Or give yourself a half hour in the morning or before bed to unwind without distractions. However long, be sure you are taking care of yourself.  Also, you can’t be helpful to others if you aren’t taking care of yourself.

I found myself committing to many things during the week and weekend that I was left no time for myself. I will admit, I am a Yes women. I am also the queen of over committing. Don’t believe me? Last week I booked myself from 10:00 am  to 8:00 pm solid. It wasn’t the best idea, but I made it through the day successfully. It’s all about having balance in your lives. I had made plans to hang out with friends around 9:30, but by the time it rolled around, I was exhausted. I wanted to spend time with friends, but I knew I had to recharge. I am so glad I did, I slept like a log that night. Our bodies know us better than we think. Sometimes, even if we don’t like it, it benefits us to say no.

A few ways I unwind are:

  • Watching movies or catching up on my favorite series
  • Reading
  • Facetiming my bestie from back home
  • Taking a walk
  • Doing my nails

We all need to take care of ourselves even if it means saying no. We may not like to say no, but it will benefit us in the long run. With the changing of seasons, make sure you put yourself first sometimes. It may help you more than you realize.

Have a great week.

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #49

LOTD

Happy Thursday! It’s crazy to think we are in the last week of April. Like every Thursday, I am sharing what’s in my closet and what I’m wearing. The weather is slowing warming up, but I am more than ready for Spring and Summer. Right now, the weather by me is in the 50’s so it’s still a bit brisk. With weather like this, I like to still dress in lighter layers in case it gets warmer or cooler.

Happy Spring (is it safe to say that?!)

My favorite part of my outfit is this shirt. I got it from Simply Southern. If you haven’t heard about their company, go check them out. They have the cutest clothing for summer. Not only is the quote on the sleeve cute, but the back is my favorite. Even though it was still cool out, I brought spring vibes out with this shirt.

Love the back

I decided to layer this top with this light blue vest from Francesca’s Boutique. I have worn it in the fall with flannels, but I love how it can go with any outfit. It also kept me warm against the cool breeze.

I am wearing my favorite jeggings from Target. They not only kept me comfortable but warm. As much as I love to wear leggings, I am looking forward to putting them away for Spring and Summer.  I am in desperate need of sun and some rays.

Finally, to top off my outfit, I wore my favorite simple converse. I love my converse, I wear them all the time in the spring weather it’s with shorts, leggings, or even a t-shirt dress. They are a staple in my wardrobe come spring.

That’s what I am wearing today, here’s to hoping the weather stays nice and warm. Have a wonderful weekend loves!

Wish Upon A Star

xoxo

 

Categories
Fabulous living

Year of YES

Two years ago, I read a book that made me rethink a lot of things in my life. I have been a fan of Shonda Rhimes for years, I am a huge of the tv shows she has created, so it was no surprise that when she came out with a book, I had to get my hands on a copy of it. I read Year of Yes through the course of one month. I have recommended this book to many, it’s all about saying yes to things in your life. Things that may scare you, intimidate you, or excite you, say yes to them. Rhimes chronicles saying yes to everything in one year and how by the end of the year she changed immensely. She also shared how even after the year was over she continued to say yes to things. It is truly an inspiring book.

The book

After I had finished reading it, I was inspired to start my own ‘year of yes” but I didn’t know how. So, with many things in our lives, I put it off. It wasn’t until last year, Rhimes came out with a “Years of Yes” journal, so everyone who read her book, could chronicle their own year of yes. I got the journal and decided to start my year of yes. You can start your year whenever you want, whether its January 1, or June 30. I started my Year of Yes, when I started my sophomore year of college. I had said my first big yes, YES to a new job. Starting anything new can be scary but a new job, with new people, and new responsibilities made me incredibly anxious.  I said yes and didn’t look back. This school year has flown by. I can’t believe I only have three weeks left?!

The Journal

I certainly have seen a change in myself this year so far, but my year isn’t over yet. I have said yes to new friends, new experiences, new adventures and new opportunities. I have stepped out of my comfort zone and have grown into a much better version of myself. I can successfully say I am happier now then I was last August. Stay tuned to more posts about my Year of Yes as the semester winds down, but for now this is just a tease.

Motivating quotes throughout the book

I start every day with my Years of Yes journal. The journal is set up with a topic each month to say yes to things. There is a goals section where you can map out where you want to see yourself by the end of the month. Each day is split up into three sections where you can write about the things you said yes to. Inspirational quotes by Rhimes are spread throughout the book to give you motivation if you need it. I spend 5 minutes a day on this, so it doesn’t take up much time. Whether you are an avid journaler or have never done it, give it a try.

Each month has a different topic and there is space for you to write down what things you want to say yes to or what things you want to change in that month
Each day is broken into three sections,
-The Yeses I handled today.
-What I gained by saying yes.
-What were the dark and twisty parts of saying yes.
They serve as a guide for your journaling.

It may sound cliché, but this book and journal have changed my life. Give this book a chance and start your own Year of Yes. It will change you in more ways than you thought.

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #48

LOTD

Hello! Hello!

Such a beautiful spring day. This is my view on my way to campus every day

Last week finally felt like spring. The sun was shining, the windows were open, people were studying outside; it made me so ready for spring!! I took advantage of this burst of warm weather by dressing very springy. My friends and I made a quick stop to Dunkin Donuts before class hence the frozen drink and backpack, this is a college student in her natural habitat.

Finally acting like spring!

Starting with my top, I go this last year from Francesca’s Boutique. I have worn it previously with this outfit. This was the perfect occasion to wear this sleeveless top. I also like the material and fit and how it can be worn with many outfits.

My jeggings are from Target. When it comes to spring and the weather changes from morning to evening, I try to wear a short sleeve top and long pants or vice versa.

These are my favorite spring boots. I love the peep toe and the thick heel. They are perfect for transitional seasons. I got these from T. J. Maxx, I can’t wait to wear them more often this season. Also, I am a heel fan, and these are super comfortable as well. I typically find wedges or thick heels much more comfortable than thin heels.

My sunglasses are from American Eagle. I love their fun and unique style. They were on sale so that makes me love them even more!!

This outfit definitely got me in the mood for summer. I am ready to break out the pastels, shorts, and bathing suits.

What are you most looking forward to when it comes to summer? Vacations, picnics, beach days, tanning? I’m looking forward to all of it.

See you all next week. One week closer to the long awaited summer.

Categories
Fabulous living Fun Ways to Organize Travel

Weekend Away Essentials

Last week, I blogged about my weekend trip to Chicago! I love to travel, and I try to take any opportunity available to me to travel whether it’s near or far. Throughout, my weekend away I made mental notes of things I want to remember when it comes to future traveling, especially for a college student on a budget. Here are my must haves for weekend adventures:

  • Don’t over-pack. Yes, it may seem tempting to pack several cute outfits and figure out what to wear when you get there, but that’s not the answer. Pack simple and efficient. For example, for my trip I packed one pair of jeans, a few different tops to alternate, an outfit to wear at night, and two pairs of shoes, as well as comfortable clothes for traveling. I wanted to make sure I had the essentials and things to mix and match for the weekend. Although, I didn’t look the cutest in all my photos wearing my north face, jeans, and sneakers, I was very comfortable walking several miles each day. I also packed pretty simple when it came to luggage. I had a duffel bag, small tote, and cross-body. The small tote came in very handy for the souvenirs I bought while I was away.
All packed! Simple but efficient
  • Plan accordingly for traveling. We drove down to Chicago over night on a bus, so I made sure I was comfortable for the long bus ride, therefore I made sure I brought a blanket and pillow for the bus. This came in extremely useful when I was able to sleep a few hours driving down. The same goes for flying, planes are notorious for being chilly, be sure to throw an extra sweatshirt or socks in your carry on so you aren’t freezing your whole flight. Overall, be sure to pack for your destination and any accessories that may come along with it.
It’s was very chilly in the Windy City. The weather was in the 30’s the whole weekend so i was bundled up. Yes, it may not look super cute, but I was very warm
  • Make a Plan. When we found out that we were going to Chicago, my friend and I made sure we had a plan of things we wanted to get done and when. There is nothing worse than going to a new city for the first time and not knowing what to do or where to go. Don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions of places to try. I have several friends who live in the Chicago area, so I made sure to get their opinions on their favorite spots. This helps to ensure you get the authentic experience while being in the city.

I found these tricks to be most helpful while traveling for a weekend away. Do you prefer weekend getaways or week-long vacations? What helpful hints do you have for trips? Let me know in comments below!

Have a happy Tuesday!!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #47

LOTD

Happy Thursday!

This week has been packed full and I have a busy weekend ahead.

It may be spring but it hasn’t been acting like it. Yes, it is mid-April and its still snowing. I’m SO ready for Spring and warmer weather. I tried to brighten my wardrobe with hopes it will make spring come faster.

That brings me to today’s look of the day. I brighten up my look with a bright color and bold necklace. I had a few meetings but a long day, so I wanted something that looked professional but also comfortable for a 10-hour day.

I wore my favorite shoe boots from DSW, I am ready to transition out of these shoes but it’s not time for peep toe shoes yet. I wore these in Chicago and they were very comfortable for walking around the city.

I wore my faux leather leggings from Target, they feel like leggings, but don’t look like leggings. Win-Win!

I brightened up my dark outfit with a bright blue flannel button down from Old Navy. It is made from soft material but also holds up well with washing. I have had it for a few years and have paired it with numerous outfits.

I changed my look up with a bright, bold necklace from Old Navy as well. I love necklaces that can change an outfit as well as dress an outfit up. My bright lip color is from House of Color. I try to keep my lips neutral, but I was feeling the bold color to brighten my mood.

If you know me, then you know I am always cold, therefore it was crucial that a long sweater was necessary. I got this sweater from Tilly’s. I wear this so frequent, with jeans, dresses, leggings or skirts. It’s so versatile and its so easy to throw on.

Here’s to hoping warmer weather is around the corner. I need it, you need it. We all need sunshine in our lives.

Have a wonderful weekend!

 

Categories
Travel

Weekend in Chicago

Hello All!

Happy Tuesday!

I hope you all had a great weekend. I took a break from the school work and got away for the weekend. One thing unique about my school is a tradition called Mystery Trips. How it works is students pay a flat rate (typically $100) for a weekend away, but they don’t know where they are going. I loved concept and idea so I signed up with my best friend for a promised weekend of adventures.

We left at 1:30 am on Friday morning.

All packed!
Heading out!

When we were half way there, we learned we were on our way to Chicago. I was  beyond excited, I had never been but was dying to go!

We arrived around 11 am, we checked in and got some lunch.

Starting the trip off with a lunch at Shake Shack!

We started walked down Michigan Ave and made our way to the Cultural Center for a guided tour of some of the top spots of Chicago.

Where the city meets the river in downtown Chicago.
It’s was very chilly in the Windy City. The weather was in the 30s the whole weekend so i was bundled up.
We loved this spot, we walked past it so often it became a landmark when it came to directions.
The ceiling of the cultural center. I was in awe of the design of all the buildings
We toured a Macy’s and I loved the Spring theme!
Although it was freezing outside, it felt like spring with all the pastels!
After our guided tour, we stopped for some sweet treats and to warm up.
We spent time popping into shops and speciality stores to stay warm and try new things. We browsed at the Sugar Factory to see what unique things they had in stock.
We then went to Dylan’s Candy Bar to browse for some sweet treats.
We spent time looking at Nordstrom at all the designers and to see what was in style this season.
Pastels were clearly in I loved these patterns and styles that were in a Prada boutique
We grabbed dinner at an authentic deep dish pizza place- Pizzeria Due. It was my first time having deep dish pizza and I loved it!
Day 1 of Chicago shown by my Fitbit, yes, we walked a lot!

After dinner we headed back to the hotel for an early night. With little sleep the night before and a full day of walking and sightseeing we decided to rest up.

Good morning and let’s kick off day 2!!! We woke up early and got an Uber to head down to Millennium Park to see the Bean!
The Bean!!
We love the bean!

After the Bean we headed over to the Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to see the city from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

View from the top
The closest I got to the Sky View boxes (a completely clear box overlooking the city below. ) yep, not a fan of heights
After the Willis Tower, We headed to the iconic Navy Pier
Once again the water meeting the land
We went back to the Sugar Factory for a fun lunch.
I got the Four Cheese flatbread
And the ice cream cookie sandwich for dessert. So delicious
These shoes!!!!!
The weather was very chilly so we went back to Nordstrom for more browsing. I saw these stunning shoes, can you guess where they are from?!
Yep, you guessed it! Sex and the City. I was having a fangirl moment in the middle of Nordstrom
After a full day of sightseeing, walking, and window shopping we relaxed by getting some Gelato and treats at Eataly! It was delicious
We did some browsing at Bloomingdales where I had to pick up this purse! It was too cute to pass up!

We spent our last night in Chicago at the Second Street. We saw a very funny show
Great way to end the night
Day 2 shown by my Fitbit, even more walking
The sun setting on Chicago, so beautiful

We headed back to the hotel to pack since we were heading out the next day.

I was so happy I got the opportunity to go to someplace new, Chicago stole my heart. From the clean city and beautiful water, to the food, the shopping and all the sights. I had an absolute blast. Also, i couldn’t have done this trip without my travel companion Shay! Thanks for a great trip!