Holiday Skirts & Belle Sleeve Tops with Dress Lily

Happy Monday, everyone! Usually I'm not a huge fan of Monday's, but today there's such a lovely feeling in the air as Thanksgiving shines in the future. I haven't been home since the summer, so I'm very excited to visit with family and eat lots and lots of food! This year I've decided to be adventurous and I want to make my own dessert for dinner -- pumpkin tiramisu. Two of my favorite things all wrapped into one! I love how at Thanksgiving everyone gets dressed up and looks their best simply to eat. I could think of no better reason to get all dolled up! :P But lets be real, you have to wear breathable clothing. Food babies are a necessary evil on this wondrous holiday. Today's outfit of the day is an adorable holiday piece fit for even the healthiest of food babies! 

Disclosure: This outfit has been gifted to me from Dress Lily for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The moment I saw this tulle skirt, I knew I needed it in my life. Nothing says the holiday season more than a tulle skirt and the beautiful copper slip paired with the beige overlay was the perfect color scheme for the occasion. At first, I was honestly a little upset with the length of this skirt. It comes below my knees and I'm already on the short side. I worried it would make me look even stumpier than usual. I am so so so glad this was not the case. Midi skirts were seriously made for the holidays. For all my short ladies, a cute pair of nude heels helps elongate your leg, while still keeping things modest.

Twirl effect on fleek! 

 

Now, I know the tulle skirt is perfect for the holidays, but this shirt definitely doesn't fall short, either! I love the Christmas red. You know the one I'm talking about. It's not your usual red--its a deep, warm red that screams Santa and the holidays! This belle sleeve top is such a warm, beautiful red, I immediately knew it would work wonders with this outfit. While the tulle skirt was modest in length and style, this top adds a bit of flare and excitement. I love how this top combines the elements of a modest long sleeve belle sleeve (equipped with beautiful crochet cutouts) with the lace down front! A stylistically interesting outfit for the modest, modern woman. & as the modern woman that I am, I couldn't help adding even more flare with this bow choker. The bow says dainty, while the choker screams edgy. I guess you could say my aesthetic is modest with an edge.

"Modest with an edge"

Shop the Look:

Skirt / Shirt / Necklace / Earrings

Remember what I said about breathability? I wore this outfit to dinner, gorged myself on pasta and other Italian food and still felt great! The belt isn't too tight and the tulle simply flows with your body. & if you have a food baby (or two) the tulle is supposed with poof out a bit--problem solved! Don't you love an outfit that can do it all?? Until next time,

xoxo,

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Real Talk: When Friendships Get Tough

It's hump day, y'all! That means that tomorrow is Thursday, Light Up Night is the day after and Thanksgiving shortly follows. Exciting things to come! Today's blog post is another in my 'Real Talk' series. I've noticed a huge amount of personal growth since I've graduated. I've been tested and tested again and I've learned so much about the world and my resilience and perseverance. I've talked a little about this in previous Real Talk posts (catch up here and here), and today I am once again getting personal. As much as I love writing #ootd posts, monthly goals and other light, fun posts like that, there's something impacting about my more personal posts. While I'm able to talk through my own problems and my growth in the world, I also have a feeling (or at least a hope) I am helping someone. I have a hope that by opening up here, I make an impact on someone else's life-- I help them see things a little differently, I give them a little bit of confidence. Whatever might be the result, Real Talk posts continue to push what I'm willing to share and help me put to words my worldview and experiences.

Lately, I've realized how much of a coward I've been in my friendships. There, I've said it & I'll be the first to admit it. I've always been terrified to address a friend who has done something wrong or an action they've taken that I've found offense in. Every friendship has their ups and downs-- we wouldn't be human if it didn't happen. For me though, ever since I can remember I've always worried that standing up for myself or addressing an issue would ruin the friendship, so I've ignored it. I've pushed the issue down, thought of anything else to distract me. And I always had the naive thought that this was for the best--that I was helping the relationship. I refused to 'call people out' because I didn't want them to be mad at me. Honestly, this is really how I've functioned in most aspects of my life.



What I've learned since graduating is that addressing these issues or standing up for yourself is a good thing and can actually help strengthen a friendship or relationship in the long run. You can't live your life in fear of confronting people--especially when the friendship or relationship means a lot to you. Now, this isn't to say you should fly off the handle every time a problem comes up. While I am the first to admit I get emotional when I am upset, I've found I can discuss issues best when I'm not foaming at the mouth. (People tend to take you more serious when you use this approach :P ) But even more so, when you do fly off the handle, even if your claim is valid, you may end up doing more damage. (( Cue, my worst fear. ))



Looking back on the times I've stood up for myself or brought up an issue, sure the relationship was strained for a bit. That will happen. But what I've found is that after the smoke clears, the mutual respect has been strengthened and there's an understanding that if something else comes up you'll both be open with each other and able to get through it. It's honestly a work in progress for me and I definitely catch myself falling back into old habits, but I've been trying to make an honest effort. Because, look, if Serena and Blair went through 6 seasons of fight after fight and still came out as the ruling queens they are, your relationship can, too!

Life may throw hella curve balls at you and there may be times when friendships are tested, but you should never be afraid to stand up for what you believe in or stand up for the friendships and relationships that mean the most to you. Does this resonate with you? Do you feel your relationships are stronger after discussing issues or am I just going crazy?!? :P I'd love to hear your stories in the comments below. 

xoxo,

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Must Own Scarves This Season

Hello beautiful readers, it's Friday!! (cue happy dance) I know things have been crazy around the world, but I hope you are having a good week.  Things have definitely been crazy in my corner of the universe, but I feel like I'm getting a better handle of things. What I'm not exactly prepared for is this cold weather! Pittsburgh is getting chillier and chillier. On the one hand, I'm all about cooler weather for the Christmas season, but my body temperature is also 4 degrees cooler than everyone else's and I get sick super easy. So even though I'm ready for it to be a little cooler, I need to prepare my cold body! Cue my favorite part of the cooler seasons--- scarves!

I started routinely wearing scarves two weeks ago and will continue to do so until late April. I can't live without my scarves and, as such, am always in search of the cutest ones. Today, in honor of the colder weather and the upcoming holiday season, I've brought to you a few of my on point, favorite scarves. A little inspiration for you & a little inspiration for those on your shopping list! PSA: I love plaid.



RED DRESS BOUTIQUE:

MODCLOTH:

SHOP HOPE'S:

BLUE LAYNE BOUTIQUE:

I used to be the biggest fan of infinity scarves--I was obsessed my sophomore year of college. Clearly, blanket scarves are more than in & I'm loving all of the rich colors you can find them! Scarves are the perfect accent to any outfit and I can't wait to see what adorable ones find their way into my closet next! Leave your favorite scarves and places to find them in the comments below. :) Ya girl could always use some inspiration herself. 

xoxo,

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October Faves

Hello, lovelies! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! I had a busy weekend full of work and friends. I went to a ramen bar for the first time and had the best broth ever! :P But, actually--it was so delicious. Although, there was a weird comb looking vegetable in my ramen that I'm still not able to identity. (Here's to trying new foods!) I then proceeded to spend the rest of the evening cuddled in bed reading. I'm almost finished with the book I've been working on for forever! Who knew actually sitting down and taking n hour or two to read would get the job done! :P Anywho, last week was such an odd week for me and motivation for anything was seriously lacking. I'm now ready to take on the work week and get some blogging accomplished! For today's post I'm letting you all in on some of my favorites for the month of October. I fell in love with so many new products this month and I can't wait to share them with you! So without further ado, my October Faves.

Lancome Sleeping Mask
I got this mask a few weeks ago as a gift from Sephora. (Perks of being addicted to makeup) I don't use this product every night, mainly because I don't want to run out of it too fast, but every time I try it, it seriously does wonders for my face! I have combination skin where patches of my skin will always always always get dried out and then other areas will be super oily. As a result, I've always struggled with finding the right moisturizer. I need a product that won't make my face too oily, but I want one that will get rid of my dry spots. And all of the sudden, in walks the Lancome Sleeping Mask and it was a match made it heaven! Every night I wear it, I wake up in the morning and my skin feels so supple and youthful. And the more I use it the better the results are--my skin continues to feel amazing even on the days I haven't worn the mask! I never used to be big on sleeping masks, but I will 100% keep this one at the ready from now on.

Better Than Sex Mascara
In that same trip to Sephora, I picked up this mascara. Now, I know most of you have probably at least heard of this mascara before if you don't already own it. This has been the most talked about high end mascara since it came out and there is no question why. I went into work the other day and a lady I almost never talk to noticed my eyelashes and would not stop telling me how great they look! This mascara makes even the weakest eyelashes full, long and beautiful! Granted, there is a steep price tag, but I'm sure Santa wouldn't mind picking it up for you. :)

Kat Von D Lock-it Foundation
When I first started using foundation, I went straight for drugstore products. BAD MOVE Within a few days of using whatever it was that I picked up, my face completely blew up in breakouts. I had never had acne this bad and had no idea what to do. Switching to the Kat Von D Lock-it foundation was such a gamechanger! The coverage is flawless and I don't feel like I have makeup caked on my face. It's very light and breathable. & the best part is it lasts soo long! You're not dropping $30 every 4 months. I picked it up for the first time summer of 2015 before I left for Italy and just got a new one in October! Now, granted I don't wear make up every single day-- very often, but definitely not 365 days a year. If you're looking to change up your foundation and want something that will last, Kat Von D Lock-It foundation is for you!

Maybelline, Touch of Spice Matte Lipstick
I know all of the products I've talked about thus far were high-end, but I am obsessed with Maybelline and have been for years now! I love the feel and wearability of their lipsticks. They're so satiny and make me feel like 100 bucks. I especially love how affordable they are! I have three--Touch of Spice, Darlingly Nude and Romantic Rose. I talked about Daringly Nude in a previous post, but Touch of Spice is by far my favorite color for the fall season! It's such a warm, plum red color--perfect to pair with your cozy fall outfits.

One Tree Hill
Recently I've been watching a lot of scary movies (#riphalloween ), but I am such a baby at being scared. To combat the inevitable nightmares, I've been watching One Tree Hill every night after I watch American Horror Story. I used to watch this show religiously with my family, but we stopped after like season 5. Rewatching the episodes is SUCH a throwback. I've honestly started watching this show more than AHS! such a classic <3

Aerie Bralette's
I know, I know, I am once again hella late to the game! People have been wearing bralette's for forever, but naturally I just picked up my first in October and I'm honestly dissapointed I didn't do so sooner! I wear them for almost every single outfit and have all but boycotted regular bras. I'm just dying to pick up as many styles and colors as I can!

Yankee Candle- Pumpkin Apple Butter
I. Love. Candles. Who doesn't?! My favorite candles are fall scented ones. I go crazy for them! I recently picked up this candle from TJMaxx and it smells like the candle I had my Junior year of college. Every time I smell it I feel like I'm newly 21 and back in my Bouquet apartment. It's crazy how scent could bring all of these memories rushing back.

Fun Mugs
If you aren't already obsessed with TJMaxx I'm going to give you another reason to be: fun mugs. Yes, mugs. I love going to TJMaxx to shop for literally anything. But I especially love perusing their mug section. They have SUCH adorable mugs and they're all hella cheap! I got my latest one from TJMaxx for $3 and I use it almost every day. If you haven't already, be sure to check out their mug section-- you seriously wont regret it!




What are some of your favorites from last month??

xoxo,

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November Goals & October Recap

Hello, friends! I hope you all had a spooky Halloween yesterday. Sadly, I was scheduled to work last night, so I wasn't able to do much more than snuggle up after I got off and watch Hocus Pocus. Still a great evening, nonetheless! What were you guys up to last night?! Today, though, I'm going to review my goals for last month and set some new goals for myself! For some reason, I'm obsessed with these 'goal' posts. I love writing them because they always keep me accountable. I think about what my goals are the month and what I can be doing to complete those goals. And I love keeping them manageable so I don't feel too overwhelmed! And reading other people's goals gives me so many ideas & inspiration. So without further ado, my november goals and october recap!

OCTOBER BLOG POST RECAP:

Afternoon Tea Time .06: October Goals

Speakeasies in New York City

Fall Hats and Blanket Scarves with Sammy Dress

10 Must Watch Flicks for Halloween

Pumpkin Snickerdoodles

Your Next Must Visit Brunch Spot in NYC

Real Talk: the Problem with Waiting Until You're Ready

OCTOBER GOALS:

Personal:
1. Read Two Books - Wow, I completely failed on this goal. I've read half of one book, but I definitely wouldn't call that a win. oops!

2. Learn to cook one fall inspired dish - I finally am starting to cook more! I've been having avocado toast with eggs and sautéed tomatoes for breakfast, and it is such a game-changer! This month I made pumpkin spice snickerdoodles and blogged about it here. Then I made spaghetti squash, which was just as yummy. I'm excited to see what else I can create!

3. Finish AHS Season 1 - COMPLETED! I love, love, loved the first season of AHS. All of the characters were so perfectly developed and the cinematography is always on point. I've already started watching the second season, although this one has me a lot more creeped out, so I've been taking it slowly and making sure to watch One Tree Hill afterwards, so that I don't get nightmares. I'm such a baby!

4. Complete at least 5 Fall Bucket List items - I just reread this goal and mentally panicked because I had completely forgotten I even had this as one of my goals. YIKES! I did end up getting this goal completed, though!

1. Finish Stranger Things: I 100% finished watching Stranger Things and wow is it amazing!! I seriously can't wait for the next season, whenever that decides to come out. I'm considering rewatching it with Mason because he hasn't seen it yet. 
2. Watch American Horror Story: I've definitely been watching AHS (as seen up above)
3. Drink a pumpkin spice latte: I drank a pumpkin spice latte (documented for proof here and here :P). I've actually only had that one all season. I like PSL, but I'm not crazy about them anymore. There's a hazelnut drink that comes out around this time that I seriously swoon over, though! 
4. Have a scary movie date: I had a scary movie date with my boyfriend last week. We watched Freddy VS Jason. For some reason the Freddy movies always intrigue me. It wasn't the best scary movie I've ever watched, but it was still a fun date night. :)
5. Watch Hocus Pocus: Last night to celebrate Halloween, I watched Hocus Pocus! It's been one of my favorite Halloween movies since I was a little kid and I love watching it every year. Some of the middle parts dragged on a bit, but it was still as good as always!
6. Go to Fright Nights at Kennywood: Earlier this month, I was able to go to Kennywood with my two girlfriend's and Mason. We spent most of our time going on the rides, but there was a bit of scaring going on, for sure! I snapped/instagram storied the adventure. There was some shrieking involved and some guy ran up to me and tried to chop my head off with a fake ax. I knew he wasn't going to actually hit me, but damn, did he get pretty close! There was also a dead guy doing parkour trying to scare everyone. He was quite interesting. 

For the Blog:
1. Reach 1,500 followers on Instagram & engage more - FINALLY! Wow, guys, I've been trying to reach this goal since like June. I know, JUNE! Granted, at that time it was a pretty lofty goal and most months I wasn't really doing the best at engaging with others, but this month I kicked my butt into gear and finally reached my goal! Persistence definitely paid off.

2. Continue to work on growing Twitter, Pinterest, & Facebook - I've definitely kept these other social medias in the back of my head. Twitter and Facebook have had alright growth, but my Pinterest has been exploding lately! Granted, Pinterest is my newest obsession and I post to group boards a decent amount, but I wasn't expecting such a high amount of growth in one month!

3. Write 4 blog posts ahead of time - I honestly didn't count how many I wrote ahead of time, but I feel like I wrote at least a portion of almost all of my posts ahead of time. Even though I didn't have everything completed, it was seriously a timesaver when it came to posting it the day of and I was able to get more PR stuff done as a result. This is definitely a habit I need to keep up!

4. Update editorial calendar for October - Completed! This is another goal I want to start making into a habit I don't even have to think about. I had half of my calendar completed and staring at the last, empty half gave me such anxiety I had to fill it out immediately! It also helps me visualize how my blog will flow for the upcoming month, which I really like.

5. Organize and send out first newsletter - ooops. There's always one goal I don't complete, that I really should have completed. Honestly, I'm just really overwhelmed with the whole newsletter thing. I'm not really sure how to go about formatting it and what I should write in it. I just need to bite the bullet this month and get it done!




NOVEMBER GOALS:

Personal:
1. Finish one book: I still want to make reading a priority amidst the craziness of life, but I have to be realistic. I do have three books coming in the mail, so hopefully that will be the motivation I need to get to work! 

2. Donate one bag of clothes: I've been meaning to do this for a while now. Today I read Blissfully Brunette's post about minimalism and this has definitely been something I want to start moving towards. I really don't need all of the things I have. So little by little I want to go through my things and decide what I really need and what I'm just holding on to. 

3. Start Scream Queens: Rachel from The Confused Millennial told me a few weeks ago that I should start watching this show. It's been on my to watch list for a while now, and in celebration of the spooky season that has just passed, I think it's appropriate to start watching. Even if I can only sneak in an episode or two. 

4. Complete 5 more items off of my Fall Bucket List: I'm still so determined to make it to a pumpkin patch this season! It seriously needs to happen.

5. Start saving/shopping for Christmas: Yes, I know Halloween was just yesterday and I not honestly in the Christmas spirit just yet, but I am a waitress and have to be practical about the amount of money I need for Christmas shopping. Christmas is my absolute favorite and I hate just giving one present--even if it's a really nice present. When I was younger my grandmother was ALLL about christmas. We'd get our presents and then she would break out all of this stuff to give us. It would be silly things like tissues or tampons-- just odds and ends type things. But we would always leave with an ish ton of stuff. Maybe it's her influence or just my love of giving gifts, but Christmas shopping is always a big thing for me. I really have to be proactive this year! 


For the Blog:

1. Send out newsletter: I'm making this number 1 because I seriously need to do this! Even if I just send out a newsletter once a month, it's something I need to figure out and send out. #determined

2. Reach 1600 followers on Instagram

3. Reach 600 followers on Twitter

4. Reach 600 likes on Facebook

5. Reach 600 followers on Pinterest

6. Write all blog posts ahead of time: (minus today's blog post because it's almost noon and it's still not done. lolololz)

7. Update editorial calendar

8. Read more from Melyssa Griffin: I've already read a few things from her and she's seriously the queen of blogging advice! I get her emails, but I've been too busy to read them. I need to actively take time to read more of her stuff!



Welp, that was a lot of goals. Clearly, I have a lot I need to get done this month. There will definitely be a plethora of coffee snaps, that's fo sho! What are some of your goals for this month?? Help me out on some of my goals and follow me on my different social medias. :) Until next time!

xoxo,

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