2014 Through Instagram Filters

To say the last year has been a whirlwind would be an understatement. From changing careers, jumping farther into the blogging world, deepening friendships that mean the most & getting outside of my comfort zone. It has been a fabulous year. And as we all know, it didn't happen unless you filter it, here's a look at 2014 through my IG.

Now the big question. What to wear for NYE!?   

Baby All I Want For Christmas Is You....

Dress - H&M // Vest - Old Navy // Necklace - H&M (not similar but love) //
Booties - Lulu's (similar)// Sunnies - RayBans // Bag - French Connection 

The days before Christmas are a time for sheer panic. What is an exciting, festive and family-filled time also ends up being a stressful race to the finish line. Worrying about last minute gifts you had been putting off for the person who literally has everything. Trying very hard not to shop for yourself, but some of these sales are just wayy too good to pass up. Or deciding what to get for the person who has made it clear there is nothing they want, but the spirit of giving makes you want desperately to find something to gift wrap for them.

Sometimes marathon shopping has to happen. Braving the malls, parking lots and endless lines. So obviously your outfit has got to be something comfortable, easy to take off (for those dressing room trips for the items you inevitably find for yourself), and also cute. The holidays are when you see everyone and their mother. That dreaded ex who broke your heart, or the girl who pretends to be your friend but will talk about you behind your back. Y'all know what I'm talking about. So, the only thing you want them to be saying is DANG she looks great. **Enter peace sign & hair flip emoji here**

This adorable dress was $15 at H&M and the perfect easy piece for a shop till you drop extravaganza. Comfy shoes are a MUST. And the less amount of layers the better. Not so much bulk for the countless shopping bags you will be carrying.

How do y'all handle those last couple of days before Christmas?!

Shop some of my favorite H&M dresses!

Photos by Marianne Lucille Photography

pink stripe

Top - Pink Blush // Jeans - J.Crew // Pumps - Marshall's (they are Guess!) // Necklace - Kendra Scott // Sunnies - RayBans 

Talking about proportions and how to get a tailored, expensive look without breaking the bank over on Playdates + Pearls. It's my second guest post for the gorgeous new momma, and let me tell you. Her babies make me want to have babies. Real bad. They are beyond adorable, and the most stylish little ones.

I love people who make me laugh.

**dance break**

Top - J.Crew / Jeans - J.Crew / Shoes - old / Necklace - old from H&M / Sunnies - RayBans (similar...hint hint santa!)

"I believe happy girls are the prettiest."

All who have a Pinterest account and have scrolled through the quotes section know what iconic lady spoke those words. When I think of Audrey Hepburn I think of Breakfast, Tiffany's, pearls and lots of black clothing.

Hints the need to break out her quote for today's post. I absolutely LOVE this sweatshirt (it's on sale right now too!). I love anything with a ruffle, so clearly this chic little number was a must. This look ended up being one of my favorite casual, but still super girly and cute, looks to date.

Photos by Marianne Lucille Photography

Girl you got soul and I don’t mind that you go a little crazy It’s that passion I dig baby

Top - J.Crew / Jeans - J.Crew/ Pumps - Marshalls / Clutch - old / Sunnies - RayBans

Sometimes it's all about the details. Some outfits are about big statement pieces, like this oldie but still goodie found here. One where you know exactly what the wearer is trying to show off. Whether it be a statement necklace, or a bold lip or a fun pattern.

Other outfits are more subtle. From far away they are just a well put together look, nothing special, just good. But once you start looking more, like I do creepily stare at ladies whose outfits I love, and try to figure out why I love them. That's when the small things pop out at you and say HEY NOTICE ME. This is a great way to dress for ladies who might be too afraid to be bold, but still can achieve a WOW look.

Here are some of my ways of making a simple outfit, actually a lot cooler than what it seems at first.

1. A popped collar. This hasn't been one of my go-to's until I started working at J. Crew. And now, I have no idea why I never did it before. It's so great, and gives that cool factor.

2. Small details like the stitching being a different color, or in this case, the detail on the pocket flaps on this top. Kind of like jewelry, but not so shiny and bright.

3. Leopard. I'm telling y'all. It is a neutral. Much like a stripe, which I feel like is in the same category.

4. Pinning back part of your hair. Like my gal CK did here.

5. A good manicure. This is self explanatory I hope.

What are some of y'all's go-to simple outfits?!

Photos by Marianne Lucille Photography

You got that long hair, slicked back, white t-shirt. And I got that good girl faith and a tight little skirt.

Blazer - H&M (old) / Tee - Chip&Pepper / Jeans - J.Crew/ Scarf - J.Crew / 

Necklace - House of Harlow / Hat - H&M / Shoes - Converse

There rarely things that I see other people wear, that I think I can't pull off. Nike high tops, an Herve bandage dress, a pair of TOMS or a super plunging risqué neckline are just a few of the things I am still struggling with imagining myself in. Most of them for obvious reasons. (Hi my bod is nothing like a Kardashian.)

One thing that used to be on the list, which can now be checked off are Converse. For years I have watched my friends, super cool hipster downtown peeps or the ladies of Pinterest rock these classic shoes. I just instantly wrote myself off that train, never even considered buying the ticket. Then, what can I say, I was walking through Macy's (randomly) and saw the white ones screaming at me. They said HEY I'M ON SALE, YOU COULD TRY ME FOR LIKE $30.

Like any good shopaholic would do, I gave into the temptation, and went for it. Best decision ever. I wear them constantly, especially with the weather being as random as it is. I mean, it is December and the highs have been in the 70s. What the heck? I can't wear my over the knee boots (last seen here).

So ladies, the moral of my story, take one item off your never could I ever wear list, and just try it. You more than likely won't be sorry! Well....your bank account might be.

Photos by Marianne Lucille Photography