Taking a break from blogging is a lot like taking a break from anything else… getting back into it can be challenging! This is the longest break I’ve taken from writing a new post in a while. And, to be honest, I feel rusty and really had to force myself to sit down in silence and write. A glass of wine always helps! It’s especially hard because it seems like these days most bloggers do not actually blog. Instagram is the medium of choice and it can feel like there isn’t a reason to keep up a blog anymore. For better or worse, my goal is to remain committed to blogging and my website – even when some days it feels like it would be easier to only focus on Instagram. With that said, it feels good to get the creative juices flowing again…
I can’t help but wonder though, these days is it better to blog, or not to blog?
To me, the pros of blogging have always been – increased freedom and a creative outlet, another channel for content (and one that you OWN). Also, a forum to connect with readers in a different way. However, there are pros to focusing on ONE channel (such as IG or YouTube). You’re not splitting your time across multiple channels, audiences tend to be more active, and for most influencers there are more monetization opportunities. Then you always hear, “no one even reads blogs anymore!” So what do you think?
By now, wedding season has officially kicked off for the year and you may be wondering what to wear. Once you know what the dress code is, you can figure what to wear that’s appropriate but still chic. Just because it’s a wedding, doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with your outfit! Here are some of my fave brands and options for not so basic dresses to wear to a wedding.
You really can’t go wrong with anything from For Love and Lemons. Perfect for the girl who wants to stand out in a crowd, their dresses are anything but basic and always make a statement. As a personal lover of all things For Love and Lemons, I fell in love with this floral yellow maxi that is perfect for spring. The collections definitely straddle the line of what’s wedding appropriate (avoid anything too short!), but their maxis are gorgeous statement pieces.
I found this brand on Instagram, and have been dying to scoop up one of the dresses in this collection myself. How gorgeous is this silhouette and this mustard yellow dress?!
Their dresses are well made and super flattering, and come in a wide range of colors. They are a little safer, but on the plus side you could probably get away with wearing them multiple times.
Fun and flirty styles that are romantic yet unique. When I see Alice McCall dresses I think spring and summer. The shorter dresses work well for cocktail parties or more casual spring/summer weddings as well.
Revolve’s collection of in-house brands (Majorelle, Lovers + Friends, NBD) have a surprisingly diverse and very cute collection of long dresses that are perfect for attending a wedding. I linked some of my favorites below – these are all formal enough to work for black tie optional or black tie weddings.
When all else fails, my go-to is Rent the Runway. The service is so easy to use and you’ll never have to worry about wearing the same thing twice. If you have a lot of events coming up I recommend their Unlimited subscription – it ends up being more economical. Some of my favorite brands for dresses on Rent the Runway: Reformation, AMUR, Marchesa Notte, Nicholas, and Solace.
For many people, animal print is an eternal neutral. This trend from last fall has major staying power and is making its way into this summer’s swimwear. Along with high waisted bottoms, florals, cut outs, and metallic suits, animal print swimsuits can be found everywhere this season. Thissuit from Solid & Striped (from Foray!) combines two of my favorite swimwear trends – animal print and belts.
I’ve linked some of my other favorite animal print suits below for inspiration. What are your favorite swim trends this year?
Getting ready doesn’t have to take hours and looking put together shouldn’t be so difficult. Of course, everyone’s style is different. But in general, most of us are going for a put together look, especially during the work week. We all know business casual doesn’t actually mean too casual. But it’s unfair to expect a girl to spend an hour doing her hair and makeup every day of the week.
As someone who feels more comfortable without any makeup on and would honestly rather be home in sweatpants than all dressed up out, looking put together is something that has taken a lot of time. Also, a lot of trial and error to get right. Don’t get me wrong, I’d still rather not have to deal with my hair every day and prefer a more laid back, bohemian look. But when it comes to Monday through Friday, there are a few tips to minimize the time you spend getting ready while still helping you look put together.
How to look more put together
+ Take photos of outfits
If getting ready is a pain or you always feel like you are rushed in the morning, spend an hour or two at night or during the weekend putting outfits together. Try different pieces on together until you have about 5-10 outfits that you absolutely love and know you can rely on as go-to’s. Take photos of these so you remember and do not have to waste precious time in the morning rifling through your closet and trying things on. On a similar note, do not be afraid to wear the same outfit again! If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it. You can repeat outfits. Especially for work, and no one will be the wiser.
+ Get your nails done
This one is slightly more personal, I feel naked if I do not have my nails done. Also, I cannot stand the sight of a chipped manicure. In general, chipped nails are a no no when it comes to looking put together and professional. If you do not have the time or budget to get your nails done regularly, consider trimming and buffing them on your own and using a light, fool-proof nude or light pink color. OPI Bubble Bath and EssieBallet Slippers are classic neutral colors that you cannot go wrong with.
+ Keep it simple
Sometimes simple is best. Think of classic style combinations and uniforms. If you don’t love getting dressed in the morning, find inspiration on Pinterest. Also, mix and match staple pieces for an easy, effortless look. There’s a reason why jeans and a t-shirt are always in style.
+ Buy one nice piece
In general, I am trying to move away from fast fashion for ethical, environmental, and financial reasons. I find that I tend to wear those items once and then they go in the back of my closet. I’d rather spend a little more on something I’ll actually wear over and over. If you aren’t sure where to splurge and where to save, consider starting with a classic piece. (Think: a leather jacket or a nice bag). And filling out your closet staples before splurging on statement pieces. The right piece will always make you feel put together whenever you wear it.
+ Invest in a tailor
If you’re still not in love with your closet, consider finding a tailor. You’ll be surprised how much hemming a pair of jeans or bringing in the waist on a dress ever so slightly make a huge difference. You don’t have to be able to afford custom or made to order everything. A good tailor can make a jacket from Zara look like a million bucks.
Although I still have a place in my heart for flowy dresses and loud prints, my 9-to-5 self finds monochrome outfits to be the most effortless way to get ready. Also, look put together during the week. Especially when I am traveling for work and do not all everything in my closet to choose from in the morning. I am forced to make decisions while packing and plan outfits out in advance.
A few pieces that have gotten a lot of wear recently:
This pearl blazer from Donna Mizani (love the fun details the pearls bring to this blazer, it was perfect during the holidays but has transitioned well throughout the winter when worn with denim), this black silk tank (I cannot stop posting this top, it’s so versatile and goes with everything), and a leather miniskirt.
As far as accessories go, I am still loving hoop earrings of all shapes and sizes, and black boots that go with everything. I bought this bag during the Farfetch Black Friday sale and love how easy it is to lug around everywhere (and the leather only gets better with age, so you don’t have to feel as bad throwing it around and using it everyday).
What are your tips and hacks for looking put together quickly?
Move over leopard print, you’ve had your moment. This season is all about SNAKESKIN. If you’re a fan of animal prints you will love this season’s snakeskin trend. If you love wearing neutrals, you will find this trend to be extremely adaptable with your current wardrobe. There are so many ways to add this print to your wardrobe – from small details to full on looks featuring snakeskin, you can’t go wrong with this trend. See some of my favorite pieces highlighting this spring trend below.
Snakeskin Styles
+ Bodysuit – talk about making a statement! I love how this top looks with a leather skirt or pants.
+ Blouse – love this for after work drinks or weekend wear. Dress it up with a skirt or down with vintage denim.
+ Boots – with festival around the season, these will go with any festival outfit and are perfect for walking around in.
+ Cropped jacket + mini skirt – for the girl who’s obsessed with snakeskin. Matching set not required, but how cute is this combo? Think this would be adorable for Coachella.
+ Pants – obsessed with these pants – how chic would this be with a silk blouse for work?
+ Belt Bag – fanny packs are still trending this season – combine too trends in one with this style.
+ T-Shirt – Z Supply makes some of my absolute favorite tees. Love that it comes in this fun print for spring! More often than not, you’ll see me wearing jeans and a t-shirt, so I’ll take any chance I can get to mix it up!
+ Loafers – easy way to rock this trend without going all in. Bonus – it’s work appropriate too.
