So, it’s been awhile. My apologies for the delay and lack of fashion. Within the last two months, I have moved from Madison, Alabama to Baltimore, Maryland. The opportunity presented itself for me to earn my Master Degree in Elementary Education. It is a huge lifestyle change, but I am so grateful and jumped at the opportunity. Just because I am pursuing my love of education and working with students, doesn’t mean I love fashion any less. I love it more than ever! I now live in a city with a Zara, and Nordstrom, as well as a Louis Vuitton, and in a place where fashion is more accessible. I have heard so many inspiring stories about people going after their dreams and making huge lifestyle changes amidst COVID, and that totally resonates with me. The world is literally on its edge, and the state of the world is so scary and unknown that it made me a bit more bold in going after those things I was too timid to go for before. I hope you too find that fire amidst these scary times. I have since moved into a quaint little apartment in the artsy neighborhood of the city. Currently, everything is still virtual for me and I am craving true fashion, more than ever. Despite the long hours that my work and graduate degree requires, I am committed to posting regularly and have some fun content planned for Black Friday.
Mother's Day gift guide
Mother’s Day has snuck up on me this year! In case you find yourself In the same boat, I am sharing some last-minute gifts that will have your mom smiling.
In times like these, I think it is especially important to show gratitude and love for our moms. Whether you want a gift as elegant as she is, or something sentimental, find that unique gift that means something significant & represents your mom’s personality. Perhaps your mom is a cook or cat lover?
Does your mom love to organize or need a little help in that department? I think this jewelry organizer is a simple and effective solution.
I love the idea of including a necklace or bracelet, so when your mom open the box, she has an extra surprise inside. With that in mind, I have dozens of affordable jewelry recommendations…..
I’ve included some bold costume jewelry options, as well as more delicate and dainty jewelry alternatives…
A special pillow or tapestry instantly creates an atmosphere of gratitude and a reminder to your mom of how much she’s loved. I like the pillowcase option, as your mom can use it on any pillow she already has.
I hope this little gift guide assists with your last-minute shopping so you can make Mother’s Day a special one for your mom…even if you celebrate at a distance.
productivity in self-isolation
The one thing that gives me hope in the isolated state is the fact that now I have time to do all the things I never did before, and with this time, I want to be productive and create personal growth that will make me a stronger and better person and professional. I’ve created a list of things that I truly believe will be a smart investment of your time. Several of these could broaden your opportunities professionally and will make you more marketable, if you are job hunting, or simply want to advance your skill-set.
#1. Learn a new language
I’ve heard good things about Babbel, and there are so many programs where you can learn a new language virtually.
Many employers prefer you to be able bilingual. Even when the role doesn't demand it, it comes in handy to be able to communicate with students and customers who speak another language. This also opens up doors of working as a translator or helping people
#2. Create a blog/website… yes this one is a labor of love, but so worth it in my opinion. If you have ever wanted to put your own spin on on of your passions, or advance your tech skills, this is a great way to jump into it. Also, our world these days is virtual and many job applications ask for a virtual portfolio or blog.
#3. Take an online class
Give yourself the gift of a new skill that can make you more marketable in the job market. All classes are online now anyways, so why not pursue an online degree or a certificate that will give you a cutting edge in the job market? And while pursing a master degree online might sound overwhelming, you could pursue a certificate or find your own online program based on the skill-set you want to achieve. Based on the industry you are in, you have to determine whether you need the credential of a certificate or degree, or if you just need the skills as outlined in the job posting.
#4. Evaluate your long-term career goals
When we are working a 9-5, it is so easy to get caught up our day-to-day responsibilities and lose focus of our long term aspirations. But all of a sudden, normality has stopped for many of us. For me, this has made me question what I want long-term and given me the gumption to go after opportunities that truly excite and inspire me. And though in a time of a crisis and tragedy, it is refreshing after spending the last year just trying to get through the day. While you have the time, now is the time to analyze your career vision.
#5. Plan your next vacation
Purely for inspiration…dreaming of the the places we will go after COVID-19, is a breath of fresh air after couch-confinement. Though I don’t have any big vacays planned, even a small weekend away…or a girls night out, will be such a luxury.
#6. Give your apartment a makeover
Maybe your crib needs a little spruce, or just a deep clean. Not only is sanitizing surfaces smart and safe, but because we are staying home all day long, we need a clean and stress-free space to be productive. So get cleaning…or redecorating!
#7. Declutter your closet (and your life)
A few favorites in my closet, which I re-discovered when decluttering
Okay…this one is my personal favorite. I love organizing my closet, even prior to COVID-19. I have been selling more than usual, which creates space in my closet and makes me more conscious about the items that I will introduce into my closet in 2020.
#8. Start a new workout program
When I was in college, I regularly attended Hardcore Pilates, Bellydancing and Hip Hop classes. And since we are in the comfort of our own homes, why not shake things up? Having fun while you get fit makes you want to exercise on a regular basis, and therefore, you get better results. I also am a big fan of P90x, though I haven’t attempted that in years. By jumpstarting our fitness and boosting our self confidence, it gives us mental-health, confidence, and just movement that our bodies need when we are stuck inside day after day.
Zimmerman inspired sale
Because businesses are struggling to stay afloat during the COVID-19 crisis, we are seeing more sales than ever. There is no debating that this a taxing time for all of us, for many reasons, and it affects us in drastically different ways.
However, if you are in a position to shop, I think it is a time where you can get more value out of your purchases and pick up some really amazing pieces for spring. I have refined my recommendations to a Zimmerman-inspired items (if you don’t already know my obsession for this brand), that really give you the high-end look for less. These pieces are available at Nordstrom, who is currently offering from 25%-over 70% off. This sale will run to 12 p.m., Sunday, April 26th.
These items paralleling the stunning Zimmerman ready-to-wear, are from Cece, a feminine and modest brand that often offers preppy silhouettes. Please keep in mind that the Zimmerman pieces are silk, and Cece’s are polyester or viscose. The Zimmerman pieces also have a more elegant and flattering cut. Obviously, the quality of fabric and design/style is part of what you are paying for. From experience, I can tell you that the more sheer Zimmerman dresses often come with a matching slip dress. It’s all in the details…And yet, I think the Cece alternatives are a great option if we are looking for something more attainable. Several prints look similar (definitely not identical) to the Zimmerman option, so if you want an alternative…
In complete transparency, if I could afford all Zimmerman, I would shop exclusively Zimmerman. I adore this brand and truly believe that the elegant and effortless aesthetic is something that few brands can capture, much less “dupe,” though so many have tried. Some of my favorite items in my closet are from the Australian brand, specifically items I shared in this post. However, I am impressed by Cece’s similar floral prints and thought they were worth mentioning. I don’t favor the more structured and preppy items from Cece, but love the more flowy, bohemian, Zimmerman inspired pieces.
Most of the Cece collection is 30% off at the moment. If you are impressed by the brand, grab a few of these florals while they’re still on sale.
spring into snake & python
Today I am bringing you the best of the best…python. I always opt for python over leopard because I think it is so modern and edgy, and easy to incorporate into your more classic pieces. Whether you prefer a statement piece or an elevated basic, I think you will love these python picks. It really just takes one python piece to edge up any look. And whether you choose to incorporate it through a killer heel, a great handbag, or a piece of ready-to-wear, I think it will be an investment that you will be pulling out of your closet season after season.
Aside from the Givenchy Antigona, these stunning python and croc effect bags and accessories are from Gigi New York, a visionary handbag brand with surprisingly attainable prices. The brand’s concept arose from the artistry of book design, which Gigi applied to the shape, color, and a style of handbag that is both refreshing and timeless.
These bags will give any outfit a little extra fashion oomph. Right on trend, the python bags have the look of an exotic handbag for a fraction of the price. And what an amazing accent to your little black (or beige…or pink) dress.
Looking for a statement to add to a simple black outfit? I can’t think of a more eye-catching option than this Balenciaga blue python vest. The past year, I invested in outerwear, specifically jackets, more than anything else. I just couldn't resist sharing this statement piece. It will bring any basic black dress or jeans to life. I actually get more wear out of my leather vest than my leather jackets, because the vest works year round, even when the temperature rises.
This is a perfect example of high end ready-to-wear at an amazing price, because it is pre-loved. Sadly the python vest doesn’t ship to the U.S. One day, I would love to have some Aquazzara heels in my shoe closet, and think these are are an amazing pop of sapphire for summer.
And when you have a statement outfit, such as these yellow stunners from Self Portrait, a white python bag is so chic and perfect for spring/summer. This Billie Crossbody in white (on the far left) is my favorite style from Gigi New York, because you can wear it casual or dress it up for the evening. And the strap is detachable, making the handbag versatile.
I love statement snakeskin and python accessories & outerwear, but if you’re like me and only want a capsule handbag collection, I recommend starting simple first with a taupe, ivory, or blush handbag in a croc-like texture. I naturally gravitate towards the trendy python print turquoise bags shown above. They could be a fun accent if you own a handful of black and blue pieces in your closet. Happy shopping as you add a bit of python into your spring wardrobe:)
elevate your spring wardrobe
Zimmerman floral mini dress
As we depart from April into May, I felt inspired by the array of breezy colors and fabrics from the ready-to-wear. The pre-loved luxury accessories I stumbled upon compelled me to put together a few spring outfits that will have us all heading out of the house and planning a beach-side vacay (as soon as we can.) I think it’s healthy to be inspired about life after COVID-19…the places we will travel, the amazing date nights we have to look forward to, reuniting with loved ones, and the fabulous spring ensembles we will wear.
Nothing lifts my spirits more than a spring refresh for my closet. Here are a few looks to inject some color into your wardrobe as we look to lighter and brighter spring days. I adore this floral mini from LoveShackFancy that gives me cotton candy vibes. With the brand’s hourglass silhouettes and girly prints and soft pastels, it is super flattering and feminine.
I think at least one LoveShackFancy piece is a perfect addition any spring wardrobe. And you can really dress up this number for date night with pink rockstuds or these gorgeous padded Gucci heels. What an easy way to instantly elevate your spring wardrobe.
I previously featured a baby blue blouse from Stine Goya, and it is easily one of the best tops in my closet. Stine Goya offers elegant silhouettes in feminine fabrics and are entry-level designer pricing.
Instead of pairing this blouse with an everyday pair of shorts, I picked the edgiest shorts I could find. They would make any outfit a little bit cooler, and I think when you come across the perfect pair of denim that is a bit more high end, it is ok to splurge because denim never really goes out of style. This vintage Chanel clutch would work great with any outfit and is a fun option for an evening bag that isn’t so prim and proper.
And when it comes to evening-wear…I’m happy to share so elevated basics that will turn heads but that you can also incorporate into a capsule collection. While you could consider this bag very statement, it would match with many of my outfits, especially because I prefer cooler colors. Any grey/white/blue outfits would look incredible with this bag. Because it also has silver, it is a great option for dressier occasions.
I’ve always dreamed of having a Balmain skirt, and this one is very up my alley, with the iridescent quiliting. Because it is light and reflective, you can style it with white/pink/lilac tops, as easily as you could with black or grey. This makes the skirt more versatile. Metallics are amazing for that.
And now for the star of the show (at least when it comes to evening attire)…the perfect leather skirt by my favorite new designer. It is a basic yet is so stunning in the style and draping of the fabric, that you really just need some great black boots and heels and a black or white blouse to make it complete. And often when I want to bring the wow factor on a date, I feel most comfortable in a leather mini and great top. A leather skirt is one item that I do believe investing in. But…only if it is the PERFECT leather skirt (for your style).
And with a wow leather skirt, you need a wow handbag…this Fendi logo bag kind of speaks for herself…
Another LoveShackFancy dress that is a little more preppy, but just as easy to style. What a dream team for Summer with the Stella McCartney wedges and either handbag…though I’m partial to the white Fendi. To conclude this post, I want to bring in pieces that capture both classics and trends. A distressed denim jacket, a Chanel tweed number, and a white Chanel boy that you could wear with either jacket. Happy shopping as you introduce brighter colors and elevate your spring wardrobe!
