ootd + friday night tea talk

ootd + friday night tea talk

I don't know how this always happens but it just seems like every time I want to write about something more personal, it conveniently is around the time my birthday is coming up. Is this supposed to mean something?

I, like so many others, have a list of things I'd like to accomplish in this lifetime. But what I wanted to write on here is a goal that I've been trying to want to do more but I don't usually pursue it. In fact, I think as years go by, I progressively get worse at it. And that thing that I'm not good at doing is... being more social. I know. Really reaching for the big things in life.

You can ask any of the people that know me well. I've always been a homebody. Getting me to go out can be a quite a task. Things I can do at home on any given night... thats my jam. Museums, going to the ballet, a book talk... thats how I roll if I'm not hiding indoors. I know there's nothing wrong with that but I do feel like I'm missing out in life in many other ways and I know it's because I like being a hermit.

So I'm just putting it in writing right here. I'm going to try to be more social this birthday year. I'm going to remind myself to go on girl, get out there!

(But if I'm not out there, just know I'll be at home basking in the glory of a cup of tea hot off the kettle)

Ashley Mason Denim

Ashley Mason Denim

I love supporting new designers. Often times, the brands that are in their infancy pour their hearts and souls into their creations thereby delivering 110% and you know what that means? QUALITY! Ashley Mason Denim is not an exception. Their jeans are affordable (big plus!) but also comfortable, stylish, and it's easy to find a pair that compliments your unique body type. For me, it's always tough finding a pair of jeans that will fit my thighs/hips but also my waist. Nothing worse than when your jeans fit your waist nicely but leaves your booty flat, preventing it from living the dream, ya feel? I don't wear anything that I don't stand by and this brand is definitely a new favorite. You can find Ashley Mason Denim at select stores (Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, HauteLook, and more) or check out their Instagram. 

#ootd

#ootd

I feel like this is the kind of dress I would've worn four or five years ago. I was really into stripes back then, especially if it was on a maxi dress. So for me, this dress kind of brought me back to when I began blogging for fun in nursing school.

As I get older, I start to gravitate away from bodycon dresses, which used to be a staple piece in my closet in my twenties. I know it's all about how women are at ease with their bodies, and I'd like to think I am with mine, but either I'm starting to be more self-conscious or age is getting to me despite my regular workouts. Either way, I tend to shy away from bodycons these days so when I put this particular dress on, I was pleasantly surprised that it didn't look as terrible as I had anticipated. In fact, I kind of liked it. Additionally, I love the cutout in the back of this dress; it's subtle but just enough of a detail to make all the difference. So it may be a body-hugging dress but I like that paired with the right shoes, I can pull this outfit off without feeling like I'm still trying to be 24 years old... if that makes sense.

Anyway, as nice as this dress is, I know I have to address one more thing that is honestly capturing my attention more than the dress itself: I have pretzel feet. I've always twisted my feet in awkward positions since I can remember and that stance is my normal, comfortable standing stance. My mom always hoped I'd grow out of it but it looks like it's here to stay. It's kind of amazing how much grace and athleticism I exude when dancing as an owner of pretzel feet. I guess you can say I'm kind of talented. *Kanye shrug*

Happy Friday!

Not at Coachella but I wish I were

Not at Coachella but I wish I were

Every year I always say I'm going to Coachella... and it never happens. As you can guess, this year is no exception. So here I am, putting it in writing: Next year FOR SURE! In the meantime, I'll be here on the east coast pretending to be at Coachella in one of my most Coachella type garb and following along on all the fun through friends' instagram stories. It's as close as I'm going to get. 

accessories of the day

accessories of the day

Today was such a slow yet wonderful day. It's such a treat when I get to carve out my day doing exactly what I want to do: grab some tea, try a new recipe, dance class, and then settle early in bed to listen to a new episode of the podcast I just started (anyone listening to S-Town?). Tomorrow is a day full of studying so I'm happy I got to do these fun things on a beautiful day. 

I am interested, however, in knowing what others enjoy doing in their free time. What are you reading these days, or if you've watched any interesting documentaries, maybe you're listening to a podcast that you're really enjoying, cooked something relatively uncomplicated and delicious, or listening to a new artist thats been on repeat. Let me know, some of my favorite books have come from recommendations! 

Wearing:

Sunglasses: Loewe Filipa Sunglasses 

Hat: Brixton Wesley Wool Fedora  (similar) 

Old Navy Active

Old Navy Active

I don't know about you but now that the weather has been getting warmer (on some days), I am getting pretty excited about being able to run outdoors again. And because I enjoy running, it's important that I'm wearing a good sports bra. Thankfully, Old Navy has some bras that offer the support I need and it's an extra bonus that they're darn cute too.

The best part? It's on sale!

Wearing: 

Sports Bra: Old Navy Go-Dry Racerback Medium Support