posts in
Under $100
Step Up your accessory game
February 28, 2020
Outfit details:
Sweater- Superdown via Revolve c/o (wearing a medium)
Coat- Superdown via Revolve c/o
Jeans- Superdown via Revolve c/o (loveee these, wearing a size 26)
Boots- Superdown via Revolve c/o (sized up to a 10)
Leopard cuff- Victoria Emerson c/o
Gold chain bracelet- Victoria Emerson c/o
Neutral mini boho bracelet- Victoria Emerson c/o
Earrings- J Crew
I never used to be an accessory girl tbh. I was actually a tomboy! Can you believe that?! Shooting hoops, wearing backwards hats and watching wrestling lol. Then I finally came to the realization I loved barbies and fashion and the rest was history. When I became a blogger over four years ago, I only used to wear earrings. I found Victoria Emerson a couple years ago and have been a fan ever since. Their pieces are not only unique but they go with every outfit no matter what you wear. They recently came out with a few new ones and I'm obsessed.
I love leopard print and gold so I had to grab this one and this one . I love layering them to achieve a more boho look or if you want to stick to simple you can just wear one! They currently have BOGO FREE, yes that's right buy one, get one free. So if you're wanting to try them out or you're already a fan, go check out the sale and their new pieces now!
If you are a neutral lover like me I am loving little mini boho bracelet. The mix of textures, crystals and stones together achieve the perfect look for some good wrist candy.
I have linked some of my favorites below. Hope you babes have a great weekend! XO
Photography: Lindzy Lee Annis
Thank you so much to Victoria Emerson for sponsoring today's post! XO
My Favorite Hair Products
February 5, 2020
What's up babes! Happy hump day! It is Wednesday right? #mombrain. Anyways, I had a few requests to show what are my favorite hair products and then when I showed I bought this waver in my Amazon haul last week you all wanted to see how it works! If you want more details on that, go check out my stories! My instagram is linked HERE. But if you want to know what I use let me tell ya! These are also in order the way I use them!
Shampoo & Conditioner // I am currently using Raw Sugar Living Moisture Smoothie. They are paraben and sulfate free and safe for colored hair. Plus the coconut smell is super yummy. I wash my hair every 2-4 days depending on how oily it looks. Extensions have helped my hair a ton (I used to have to wash it every day!)
Miracle Leave In // So I have been using this for YEARS. I am obsessed with It's a 10 and I think their products are great. After I get out of the shower I rub about a dime, sometimes quarter size through my hair. It eliminates tangles, adds shines, controls frizz, literally everything. This is a MUST HAVE.
Hair Brush // I have also been using this for years. The wet brush is freaking amazing. I use it on my wet and dry hair!
Hair Dryer // I use the T3 hair dryer. I know it's pricey but it seems to dry my hair faster and obviously I love that it's white and chic looking! I have seen these at Costco for A LOT cheaper than online btw.
Dry Shampoo // Love this one. I like that they have different hair colors (blonde, brunette, red, etc.). I get the divine dark! I actually spray it in my CLEAN hair for volume. They obviously use it when it's dirty too, lol.
Heat Protectants // I used this one in my hair tutorial today. It works great and I love the smell. But I also wanted to share this one that I use! It's important to use a heat protectant to prevent damage when using hot tools on your hair.
Hair Waver // With over 990 reviews, this waver is amazing. Such a fun cute way to switch up your normal hairstyle! Loveeee it.
Below is a photo from today after I used the waver! I still need to practice more but overall, I think it's cute! DM me if you have any questions on anything I posted! XO
How I overcame PPD/PPA
January 23, 2020
Skirt: Chicwish c/o
Tank: Motherhood Maternity, similar here
Bralette: Free People
Sandals: Nordstrom, similar here
Necklace: Evereve
Boho cuff: Victoria Emerson c/o
I have so many photos I never posted from when I was pregnant so I wanted to share these with you guys. I miss this warm weather and loved these easy outfits. I loved tying a tank over to the side and pairing it with a fun skirt like this one from Chicwish. They have so many cute leopard pieces I will link below for you guys.
This is one of the most personal posts I have ever written. I debated back and forth about sharing. I am being very vulnerable but I hope that this might help other mamas who have felt the same. Let me start off by saying "Postpartum Depression" is defined as a 'type of mood disorder associated with childbirth that can affect both sexes.
Symptoms may include:
- extreme sadness
- low energy
- anxiety
- crying episodes
- irritability or changes in sleeping or eating patterns
- brain fog
- lack of motivation
- feelings of guilt, inadequacy or worthlessness
- physical discomforts like muscle aches or headaches
- irritability or agitation
- lashing out at others
- fear of not being a good mom or dad
Just because you have Postpartum Depression does not mean you are "depressed." I feel like this is the biggest misconception.
Also I do want to say, this is my personal experience as a new mom. I'm not saying what I do is the best or trying to tell you what to do, I just want to share and help.
When we brought Easton home from the hospital, the first few days were kind of like a high. We were so sleep deprived but we were so excited we finally had him. We would stay up all night and watch Twilight movies on end, we would both just stare at him and we both thought we had to be up when he was- which was all night, lol. We honestly didn't know what the hell we were doing (first time parents).
I have said from the beginning I wanted to breastfeed which I'm proud to say I've made it 11 weeks and 2 days in counting and am still going lol. I love it. However in the very beginning (it's weird saying "the beginning" because it still is but you know what I mean), he was eating every hour it felt like. As much as Justin wanted to help, there was really nothing he could do. I would feed Easton, lay him down, go take a shower then he wanted to eat again, it was completely normal for a baby but I was exhausted.
I remember one night I was up feeding him at 12am, 1am, 2am, 3am, 5am and 7am. I woke Justin up crying because I was so mentally and physically exhausted. I want to be the best mom I can be to my child but as a functioning human, I need a little sleep, ya know?
I would nurse him and look down and just start crying. I was so extremely beyond over the moon happy I finally had my baby but I felt like I was "sucking" as a mom. Or so I thought. I was anxious, googling everything, questioning everything I did, comparing myself to other moms and their babies, it made me so sad.
Once I became a mom it was like a gained a new piece in my heart. I started noticing every mom and their babies. I saw complete strangers differently. I remember seeing a mom by herself pushing a grocery cart with a baby carrier while trying to hold her toddler and her purse. I was driving but I just thought why is no one helping her?? I would have never noticed this prior to having Easton. It was amazing I was noticing other moms more but it just showed my emotions were working in overtime.
When the nurse talked to us about PPD in the hospital, I told Justin and even thought "this will never happen to me." We have waited so long and this is all I've ever wanted.
We went to our first month checkup and they made me take a test. It was just a paper form with questions about Postpartum depression. I ended up circling enough questions yes that leaned me on the side that was closer to PPD/PPA. I hugged Justin and just cried. Why was I feeling this way? I love Easton so much?? None of this makes sense? I was not depressed. I was tired. I was overwhelmed. I was anxious. I was emotional. Plus having a baby in the dead of winter in Ohio where it gets dark at 4:30-5 isn't exactly dream "baby time". I wanted to take walks with him, go visit friends, etc. and we literally couldn't leave the house because it was so freezing.
Our doctor said he could prescribe me with a SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). This would be used as an antidepressant. This is not thie route I wanted to take. I was put on one in high school which led to me continuing to take it in college and it really messed with my hormones. The second I knew I wanted to have a baby I stopped taking it and have never wanted to be on any since.
I told the doctor no and instead Justin and I talked about other things I could do to make me feel better. I started taking Vitamin D everyday, I started making time to do something for myself everyday even if it was taking a walk or going to Target, I started journaling everyday and I downloaded the "Calm" app.
The number one thing that helped me get through the PP depression was support. Talking to friends, family and other moms. Once I started talking about it and doing the other things listed above I felt like a new human. I think a lot of moms are afraid to talk about this topic on social media because they don't want judged. You already get judged by how you raise your child and the last thing you want people to think about you is that you are a loose cannon.
I am here to tell you, there's not one mom out there that is "perfect." And guess what? That's perfectly fine! Your baby does not need you to be perfect, they just need you. You are amazing and your little one is soooo lucky to have YOU as a mama. Give yourself grace girlfriend. You are not alone. If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here! XO
Thank you so much to Chicwish for sponsoring today's post!
Thank you so much to Chicwish for sponsoring today's post!
25 things I've learned in the first month of being a mom
December 17, 2019
Dress: Chicwish c/o
Heels: Target
This makes me miss being pregnant! I wanted to share this gorgeous dress with you guys from Chicwish! It is non maternity but was very comfortable and flattering on the bump! They have tons of cute picks for the holidays I will link below! They also have a holiday sale going on, you can get up to $20 off your order depending on how much you spend!
Being a mom has been the most rewarding, most amazing, most challenging and best thing I've ever done. It's something no one can describe to you until you've experienced it yourself. I wanted to share with you some things I have learned in my first month of being a mom in hopes that I can help one of you! I want you to remember, if you take anything away from this post, know that you are doing GREAT! You were chosen to be your baby's mother and nobody knows what your baby needs better than YOU! :)
1) Take all the postpartum care you can from the hospital. The big hospital underwear, dermoplast, ice packs, witch hazel pads, you will need it all.
2) Take shifts with your partner! In the first couple days Justin & I thought we both needed to be up watching Easton's every move. But then we both realized neither of us were getting any sleep. Sleep is a luxury, so take it when you can get it!
3) I know everyone says this, but you should really try to sleep when your baby sleeps. Now that he is older and we have somewhat of a routine, I sleep during his first nap just to get an extra energy boost for the day!
4) Accept help. It is OK to accept help. I felt so emotional because I wanted to do it all, but guess what, you can't in the beginning. If someone wants to cook you a meal or come over to hold the baby while you shower, LET THEM.
5) Who the heck invented snaps? Zippers are life. And if I'm being really picky, zippers that start at the bottom. Make sure when you're buying onesies, get the zipper onesies or gowns! These make life 1,000 time easier during those middle of the night changes.
6) Do something for yourself everyday even if it's taking a hot shower. Go outside and take a walk. Make yourself a coffee and actually drink it while it's hot. You deserve it.
7) Any projects you wanted to finish, do them before you have the baby, lol.
8) Cuddle as much as possible. You will never get this time back. Babies love skin to skin!
9) If you are breastfeeding, meet with a lactation consultant. She helped me so much! We even took a breastfeeding class before having him but she showed me things I didn't know.
10) Once again, if you are breastfeeding, create a "breastfeeding station." Next to our glider in the nursery I have a water bottle, nipple cream, a snack, a burp cloth, gas drops, gripe water, a pacifier, etc.
11) It is a lot harder than I thought!
12) Don't be afraid to ask questions. Get to know other moms!
13) Take one day at a time. And breathe.
14) Never compare your baby to other babies.
15) If you like to be on a schedule and want your baby to have a routine, check out @takingcarababies. We started this at 4.5 weeks and it has helped Easton's sleeping so much!
16) MOST of the time, babies cry for 3 reasons. They are hungry, cold or need their diaper changed. (Number one tip from MY mom)
17) Postpartum is no joke. If you are experiencing it, talk to someone. (I can write another post digging deeper in this).
18) Be present in the moment.
19) Learn it's ok to say no. I have said no to a bunch of social engagements.
20) You will always figure out a way and it will be ok!
21) Do not let your marriage slack. Being partners as mom and dad and as husband and wife are so important. When Easton goes to bed at night, Justin and I have "us" time whether it's just talking (mostly about Easton), watching a show or putting our phones away and hanging out.
22) You don't realize how much free time you had before baby, lol. When he naps I am literally running around my house trying to do the dishes, start laundry, catch up on emails, etc.
23) Always have a burp cloth on hand. (I've been spit up on numerous times lol)
24) There is absolutely no love like the love for your child.
20) You look at life completely different. You are a mama now and that's your number one job. :)
There are so many things I've learned I know I''m missing some. You will truly never understand things about motherhood until you've experienced it yourself. I am so blessed to be Easton's mama and I can't wait to keep learning more everyday to be better for him!
Photography: Kandid with Kate
Thank you to Chicwish for sponsoring today's post!
Tips for shopping conveniently & wisely
December 11, 2019
This post is sponsored by Zappos.
Boots: Zappos c/o
Does anyone else feel like the first of the year goes sooo slow and the end FLIES by?! I can't believe it's already December and I have a (over) ONE month old! Makes me sad he is growing so fast! However I am so excited to celebrate our first Christmas together as a family! :)
I love shopping but let me tell you, with a newborn and being a little scatter brained it has been a little hard to find time. I wanted to share some tips on how I shop conveniently and wisely!
HOW I SHOP CONVENIENTLY & WISELY
1) I check shipping & handling. I know this sounds crazy but sometimes you think you get such a good deal then the shipping ends up being as much as what you are buying!
2) Check return policies. Will I be able to return or do I get a store credit if I don't return in 5 days (insert eyeroll)?!
3) Check reviews. It's always great to hear what other people think (honestly) about what you're buying!
4) I shop online, I mean duh. SUPER convenient.
5) Take advantage of rewards programs!
Using my Zappos Rewards I received these amazing boots with FREE expedited shipping. They have amazing customer service and a 365 return policy (pretty amazing)! They have a huge selection of Justin Boots which I love. Fun fact: the first gift Justin ever got me were a pair of Justin boots as a hint because he surprised me with a trip to Nashville! I love them. I hope my tips help you babes! Xo
A Great Christmas Gift Idea
December 9, 2019
You guys...Christmas is RIGHT around the corner. I feel like the holidays fly by so fast but they do say time flies when you're having fun! I have had some girls ask me what is on my Christmas list and wanted some ideas so here is a great one for you! Every time I wear one of my Victoria Emerson bracelets I get tons of compliments. The conveinence of having to only magnetically clasp one bracelet but it looks like I'm wearing a few is amazing! Also if you're like me, sometimes it's hard to put on a bracelet by yourself especially when you're holding a baby, coffee or trying to run out the door with tons of bags in your hands. These are not only super easy to put on but they are so dang cute!
Hat: Abercrombie & Fitch
Scarf: Abercrombie & Fitch
Shirt: Old Navy
Boho Cuff: Victoria Emerson c/o
Wrap Bracelet: It's called Crystal Ice on Mauve (will link when available) c/o
Jeans: Free People
Bag: Gucci
Earrings: Madewell
Boots:Marc Fisher c/o
She is having a Buy one, Get one free sale right now! So so good! It's not going to last long so check it out while you can! I linked my favorites from the sale below. Have a great day babes! xoxo
Thank you so much to Victoria Emerson for sponsoring today's post!
Photography: Lindzy Lee Annis
BOGO on my Favorite bracelets!
September 18, 2019
Earrings: Anthropologie
Tank: Amazon
Wrap bracelet: Victoria Emerson c/o
Boho cuff: Victoria Emerson c/o
Skirt: SheIn
Booties: Marc Fisher c/o
Bag: Gucci
Today one of my favorite companies Victoria Emerson is having another HUGE sale on their entire website! I had to share as I just got some super cute ones in! Their wrap bracelets and boho cuffs are the perfect statement piece to add to any outfit! Their entire site is BOGO- with NO CODE NECESSARY!
I wear this wrap bracelet almost every single day. I think the ivory goes with all my outfits as I'm obsessed with neutrals! This is the one I'm wearing on my left wrist in the photos above! This boho cuff is one of my go to's for Fall and I can't wait to wear it with everything!
I linked my other favorites below. Make sure to check out my stories on my Instagram today for up close details!
Thank you so much to Victoria Emerson for sponsoring today's post!
Photography: Kandid with Kate
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons