Holiday Faves

| lipstick: Liptini in Scarlet Cocktail | blouse: H&M | pants: Old Navy | flats: Old Navy |

Items I've been wearing once/week: this blouse. These pants. And I know I just featured the blouse in my recent packing post, which makes it seem even more like I haven't been wearing anything else...(somewhat accurate.)

In retrospect, I wish I would have worn a belt with this outfit, it looks a tad sloppy. Also, next time these pants are on the blog (I am SHOCKED they haven't been on here more), I'll be sure and get a close up of the fantastic festive brocade fabric.

With things as crazy as they are right now (for everyone!) I need a couple fail-proof pieces that will pull a look together- fast. If you're hustling to get dressed this week, in the middle of finishing up your Christmas shopping and not turning into a grinch; may I suggest some colored pants and a silky blouse? Bonus points if they are festive.

I've given myself a mini-challenge to help myself shop my closet and get dressed this week: holiday-inspo outfits all week long! I kicked it off today, peep this 'fit that I shared on Twitter.


Here's two pictures from the two holiday parties in my life this past weekend:  

Top photo: our office holiday party on Thursday night (I was on the committee!) Oh what fun, I'm kinda bummed it's already over. We went with a plaid/red/green/gold motif, and our venue was The Bell Tower. It is consistently one of the best nights of the year, and I'll share some more pics soon.

Bottom: Hunter & I hosted a holiday/house-warming party at his newish house on Saturday night! Here's the mantle, which I championed, and was so pleased with! I'm not super artsy crafty (like, at all) but I got several compliments on the decor, SO it was a big night for me. And a wonderful time to see all most of our friends in town on one night.

I hope y'all are managing to stay chill this week! Just like you (I'm sure) I've got a list a mile long of things to get done before Christmas, and especially before I leave for Finland next week. All while trying to maintain my one-word motto of joy this month! Good thing I love a challenge!

Hunter's JORD Men's Review

This Summer, JORD reached out to me about reviewing a wood watch (read the full review here!) Since I received & reviewed it, it has rarely left my wrist. I wear it pretty much every day, because it is lightweight, simple, and goes with everything! Recently JORD inquired again, this time to see if I had a guy in mind that might like a wood watch this holiday season. I thought, "I know a guy ;)." My boyfriend Hunter has been absolutely loving his JORD watch. I only asked him to wear it, and let me take some photos, but HE insisted on writing down some "quick thoughts", and here we are. I'll let him take it away- since you read my writing all the time :). 

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| shirt: Lucky | jeans: Gap Factory | boots: Target | watch: c/o JORD |

At times, being the boyfriend of a fashion blogger has its perks! 

My lovely girlfriend, Priya, recently received a beautiful watch from JORD Wood Watches for her to feature on her blog. Faithful followers of perfectly Priya know that, since receiving the watch, she has fallen in love with it and has made it a mainstay on the blog. The folks at JORD were also nice enough to send Priya a men’s watch to be featured on her blog. 

Because I am Priya’s main squeeze, (and because I have a wrist upon which a watch may be worn,) I have been gifted the men’s watch, which is the subject of today’s post!

It doesn’t take a watch fanatic to notice that this watch is something special.  It's made of wood, which is a fact that alone makes it a unique timepiece. 

After wearing the watch for about a week, I can dismiss any concerns that one might have over its' durability or comfort. I have dropped it twice (I’m not careless, just a bit clumsy) and the watch has not a single scratch or dent. Although the watch is sturdy and durable, it is still surprisingly light weight and comfortable. The inside surface (the part that comes in contact with your skin) feels almost seamless.  It doesn't pinch or rub awkwardly at all, and the clasp is easy to operate. This watch is simply a result of superior craftsmanship.

In terms of the appearance, the watch is sleek and stylish. The dark wood is very handsome and rugged, but the pearl-colored woven carbon fiber gives it a classy and elegant touch. It's very versatile, in that it can be worn with so many different color combinations.  Personally, I love the way it looks with gray or navy, but I have also successfully paired it with a few plaid flannels button up shirts. The fashion possibilities with this watch are endless!

If you're looking for a watch that is durable but elegant, stylish but unique, then look no further. At $149, it's very affordable, especially when compared to other high end brands. 

I have gotten more compliments on this watch in one week than I have gotten on any other item in my wardrobe, and that is absolutely no exaggeration. Watches make for a really great Christmas gift, and a watch this awesome is guaranteed to make your boyfriend so happy that he will sit quietly through every minute of the upcoming season of The Bachelor with you, so what are you waiting for! Check out JORD Wood Watches, and save your boyfriend a spot on the couch next to you as Ben Higgins picks his way through ABC’s most recent crop of hotties!

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Adorable, and unprompted, I swear! Thanks Huntee!

JORD Watches do make the perfect Christmas gift for that special guy in your life. They've been kind enough to give me a limited quantity of $25 giftcards for you guys! Order by 12/20 (in the US) to have your watch delivered before Christmas. Follow the link below to have your code emailed directly to you! 

--> Redeem your giftcard <--

Hunter & I were provided with the watch free of charge, but all opinions are OBVI our own! 

Packing List: For a Long Weekend {Fall Edition}

Seems like I'm always packing for a long weekend away! A few weeks ago, Hunter and I spent the weekend in North Carolina, hanging with my younger brother Amir. I made a similar trip around the same time last year, and knew it would be a showcase for perfect Fall weather (& outfits!)

Let's take a look at what I packed:

not pictured: undergarments, workout outfit, toiletries (*also* sorry these pictures kinda suck. It's just so DARK!)

I was actually excited to put together a mini-Fall-capsule, featuring the best parts of Fall fashion: booties, sweaters, flannels, and leggings. Weather was slated to be bright but cool, and I knew there'd be some relaxed/athletic hanging around, as well as a night out, and church on Sunday. There was also a road-trip component of the trip to keep in mind!

H&M silky button-up, Urban Outfitters plaid button-up, Scooby Doo graphic tee

This full outfit post has somewhat of a love letter about this striped H&M blouse. All I seem to be wearing these days is a combo of leggings + a blouse (for better or for worse...) and I bought this one specifically with that in mind. It's perfect for a night-out, without much thought otherwise. The flannel was selected to wear with a skirt to church, for the ride back, (and possibly for hanging around on Saturday.) Finally, meet my favorite t-shirt, unironically. I may lose all fashion blogger cred (that I have?!) but it's really comfortable, always makes me happy, and makes me think of Tuppy (who I stole it from.)

Gap Factory purple leggings, Zella black leggings, Old Navy floral skirt

Guys, here's my dilemma right now: I'm having trouble wearing real pants. That aren't leggings. Recently I realized I was constantly schlepping around in my sweats from college; and wearing my Zella leggings too often, so I bought a FEW more pairs at Gap Factory. And now I'm really struggling to wear anything else. This purple pair ^ IS my life. The Zellas make for the most comfortable night out. And I brought a skirt because I realized I had a problem.

leather jacket from Carina, Express wrap sweater from Lauren

Funny story about this leather jacket: I don't know where it came from. I mean, I got it from Carina, but that's all we really know. Someone left it in her car. It's a great "bomber style" that I don't already have, and it layers so well over a silk blouse. This wrap sweater was sent to me by the wonderful Lauren, and I lived in it all weekend! Maximum cozy.

J.Crew statement necklace (gift), lip crayon via Birchbox, headband from Michael's, Kate Spade crossbody

Not a fantastic show of accessories here, folks! Obviously I didn't put much thought into it. I wore the same earrings, simple necklace, and watch all weekend, and just used the statement necklace for our evening out. I was excited to try out this lip crayon because I had just received it in my Birchbox! The color is a fantastic bright red, and it's super easy to apply (wearing it in this post.) I guess I never mentioned that I got this crossbody purse at the Kate Spade outlet recently. I love that it's neutral AND metallic. I've been using it pretty regularly. 

Target booties, Mizuno trainers, sparkly Toms

Shoes are always hard to narrow down. I planned to wear the booties pretty much the whole weekend (I've been living in them anyway, so, fine with me!) I never leave my house without trainers, and naturally we went on a run and kicked around on campus. I wore the Toms (which I've had forever and have never made it on my blog!) for the trip there and back, and to the basketball game.  

Full posts: That's a Wrap / Jailhouse Rock

Here are the outfits I wore over the weekend, using the items above! I figured you didn't need a full post of my ridiculous road-trip outfit (even a little embarrassed sharing this here...if you see me on the road, say hello!) 

In my packing tips post, I finally wrote down the why behind taking time to pack smart: to better enjoy my trips, instead of feeling anxious because I'm not prepared.

Since then, I ask myself a few simple questions after a trip, to gauge whether my packing capsule was a success:

• Did I like what I wore? I really did. The wrap sweater over the skirt was an idea, and I loved how it turned out!
• Did I feel prepared? Yup. I borrowed a Davidson tee for the game, but otherwise had exactly what I needed.
• Did living out of a bag detract from the experience? Nope! Having what I needed helped us go go go!

So then I say: hi-fives all around! This packing list was a success. What are your tips for packing successfully?

Check out the rest of my packing lists:

long weekend [Spring] / week in Canada [Winter] / another long weekend [Spring] / [Bachelorette] long weekend

See also:

perfectly Priya's 10 Basic Packing Tips

Snapshots of Life, XII: The PSL Edition!

How better to title my snapshots of life from this past Fall than the one thing that has become quintessentially Autumnal: the sweet, spicy, seasonal goodness of a pumpkin spice latte.

This Fall was great. It's my favorite season. Beautiful (warm) weather persists in Nashville until well into November, but I wasn't complaining. Here's a round-up of random things that happened, that didn't warrant their own blog post, but I don't want to forget! 

September (left to right)

Hunter bought us matching Vols t-shirts that were perfect for a college football kick-off party 

just a #natureselfie while at Rock Island over Labor Day Weekend

I got a clothing rack! I can literally write an entire blog post about how it has changed my life. Iteration #1 ^

One more selfie from the weekend my brothers were in town (at Fall Creek Falls!)

October 

I finally had a mini-high-school reunion with two friends that live in town. We all ran cross-country together! TKA! 

We had a ping-pong "Fall Classic" at work, and this was the trophy.

Our annual haunted house for charity: Nightmare Daycare! I'm the scary school nurse, Art is a giant Elmo zombie.

Two of my favorite little twins visited me at the office on Halloween and said "We'we dawgs!"

November

This is Melissa, one of my friends from middle school who visited Nashville. We had a great night out! SO fun seeing her.

Naturally when Hunter and I visited Amir in NC, I bought horse tattoos at Cracker Barrel and made us all put one on.

Meet my buddy Grayson who IS (and I KNEW he would be) the best baby ever. <3 

The only thing that REALLY matters right now is my brother Coren got engaged! Congrats Coren & Marisol!!!

Check out all my snapshots of life: 

11 // 10 // 9 // 8 // 7 // 6 // 5 // 4 // 3 // 2 // 1

Jailhouse Rock

| jacket: from Carina | top: H&M | necklace: gift (J.Crew) | leggings: Zella | booties: Target |

A few weeks ago, I got a little bonus from work; and promptly decided to use most of it to go shopping. I attempted to not buy any new clothing in 2015, and we all know how that turned out, (intervals of not shopping at all and then shopping sprees, basically). I would say overall I have bought less for myself in 2015 than I normally do. All that to say, I rationalized using a bonus to get a few new pieces (I also bought a birthday gift and like, shampoo or something.)

I was really excited to go into H&M, and immediately set my eyes on this stripey blouse. I looked around the whole store, but nothing else seemed quite as appealing (ha- but I totally bought other stuff too.) Having already worn it a handful of times, I would say I made the right decision. Liking something as soon as you walk into a store, and thinking about it the whole time you shop is indicative of a good purchase (see: these pants.)

I originally wore this outfit out to dinner the other weekend with Amir and Hunter in Charlotte, NC. I've since worn it to work and out to meet my middle school friend, Melissa, who was visiting Nashville.

I don't think I really mentioned in my other outfit post from this weekend trip how much I loved seeing my brother. He is a GEM. A gem who just ran a freaking fast 800m to walk on the track team for his final semester of college #sisterbrag.

         
A couple more from that weekend: Steph Curry also went to Davidson which is pretty awesome, we ate dinner at Tupelo Honey (fantastic) and I hugged Amir as many times as I could. Please forgive the lighting.

I should also note that I've always wanted to take outfit photos on train tracks (such a ridiculous blogger thing/rite of passage) well, I finally got my chance! To the right of these tracks was the shop I took my car to before we headed back to Nashville. Blogging is all about seizing opportunity!

Hope you're doing well, friends. As usual, all I want to do is sleep forever, but life is good. 

Monthy Goals, November

a fantastic view of Middle Tennessee!

Like most, I'm in complete disbelief that the final month of 2015 is upon us. The holidays are here?! Our office holiday party is next Thursday, so I'm desperately trying to get in festive mode. If I'm being honest, I was feeling a little pre-anxiety about Christmas last week; but now that I've gotten some decor up, and started to chip away at gift-buying, I'm feeling a lot better. Plus, it's ridiculous to be stressed about the holidays. It's supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year!

I made goals of what I would like to accomplish every month this year, waaaaay back in January. Some months have been better than others, but I'm proud at least that I've kept these goals in mind month-by-month. Check out my monthly diagnostic right here.

And now, let's see how I did in November:

- Made a trip to see Amir in North Carolina (two-for!)
- So much live music: Copeland (again), Andrew McMahon (my fave), and Neil deGrasse Tyson (counting it!)
- Practiced the one-word-motto of patience. MOSTLY while I was driving. I made a notable effort for this one.
- I snuck in a dinner party on Sunday night- with a chili and game night at my apartment!
- I am currently reading The Girl in the Spider's Web, but haven't made great progress. 
- I sent out several letters at the start of the month: notably to my Mummo to say, can't wait to see ya!
Pretty good for sneaking those goals in there, especially for how nutso November turned out.

This is a great time for me to introduce my final one-word-motto for the year, for December: joy!
So fitting, and equally difficult, at this time of year, isn't it? Joy seems to stem from a deep-rooted sense of contentment, which, ironically, can be hard to find at this time of year.

I got my shoes shined at the YMCA the other day, and the shoeshiner gave me some awesome advice: "I don't have bad days." It is a powerful thought, to consider YOU have the ability to control your own happiness, despite circumstances. A quick lesson on happiness vs. joy: the biggest difference is that happiness is caused by external happenings, while joy is lasting and based on internal perspective. I found this handy chart that helped me understand this even better.

A couple things I'm doing to make this one-word-motto super effective: a written reminder (in gold, of course) on my mirror, and an Advent devotional I'm trying my HARDEST to do every morning (this is huge and unheard of for me!)

How do you practice joy during the holiday season? I would love to hear your insight, in hopes that this will be my best and most successful one-word-motto yet!

I anticipate linking this up with Nicole, but stay tuned.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 

That's a Wrap!

| sweater: from Lauren (Express) | top: stolen from my little brother | skirt: Old Navy | purse: Kate Spade | booties: Target |

Hi everyone! Happy (albeit, belated) Thanksgiving! I hope yours was cozy and delicious. I stuck around town for this extra long weekend; and though I missed my crazy family on Thursday, it's been nice just hanging around and not traveling.

This is what I wore last weekend, when Hunter & I road-tripped to see Amir in Davidson, NC. And that's a wrap sweater. I actually took time to pack smart- and lived in a few pieces all weekend (stay tuned for that packing post!) 

This outfit proved to be perfect for Sunday- visiting Amir's church, and brunch at Cracker Barrel before hitting the road back to Nashville. I wanted something that would easily transition to a comfy road-trip outfit, and it worked: I just swapped the skirt for my Zella leggings and changed shoes, easy! 

Glad to finally debut this mega-cozy sweater on the blog, I've been absolutely living in it lately. Last year Lauren mentioned getting rid of it, and I think I just commented with how yummy it looked, and she sent it to me! Isn't she the sweetest?! It's a big bulky sweater for sure; but I've found that belting it can make it look like a structured layer (instead of making you look like Bigfoot.) So thanks again, Lauren, for sending this to me! I mostly wear it with sweats at home and that's why it's just now appearing on my blog ;)

Other notes about this outfit: this skirt is the sister of this skirt (love 'em both. Must style with tights.) I purchased two pairs of brown booties this Fall, these Target ones have been the MVP so far (ironically the other pair are the gorgeous and real leather Sam Edleman Petty's!) Shout-out to Tarif (Amir's twin) who I stole this flannel from! Some of my favorite clothing items have been stolen from him (see: Scooby Doo shirt [will be included in this packing capsule.])

We had a really lovely time with Amir in NC. It was so good seeing him, if only just to see some family around Thanksgiving time! I can't believe he's nearing his last semester of college. I remember dropping him off with my mom like it was yesterday! One thing we did was go to a Davidson basketball game (better late than never!) This picture is right after they beat College of Charleston in a super exciting game. W-I-L-D-C-A-T-S! 

Hope y'all are are in the middle of a superb long weekend- soak up every minute of that vacation! Thanks for reading! 

SmileBrilliant Review {pre-whitening}

So here's something I've never written about on perfectly Priya before: being insecure about my teeth! While it would be nice to look like Gigi Hadid, I am, for the most part, comfortable with being me. That being said, though almost all my siblings had braces at some point, my parents don't love me enough my teeth were always "good enough" to not be in dire need. So I never got 'em, the result being a really crowded mouth, that could also benefit from some whitening.

When SmileBrilliant reached out to me recently about trying their at home whitening system, I happily agreed, because who doesn't want whiter teeth?? I've only experiemented with teeth whitening very minimally (I mean like, Target brand white strips in college that did nothing) so I was very curious to see how the overall process and result worked out.

SmileBrilliant employs a method of whitening only available previously in the dentist's office (for $500+) In comparison, a SmileBrilliant kit starts at $120, and offers 7-14 applications (depending on how long you leave your trays on!)

The process begins with creating your own custom trays. SmileBrilliant provides the supplies, you simply create a mold, and mail it back. I had no idea what I was doing, but found the process to be well-explained and relatively simple.

Shortly after I recieved my kit in the mail: trays, whitening gel, and sensitivity gel (more on that below.)

So far, I have done four treatments, mostly in the evenings, while I do stuff around the house. You can leave the trays on as long as you want, though they recommend starting at about 15 minutes and going up from there. So far, I've still only gone up to about 30 minutes- but I've had positive results, without any issues, so I anticipate my next sessions to be significantly longer.

My biggest hesitation in whitening was a couple areas of sensitivity (in addition to crowded teeth, I have exposed roots on molars on both sides- a really winning combo.) The great thing is that SmileBrilliant supplies desensitizing gel that you use after whitening, for this specific reason. After application, you don't rinse or wipe it off, so it keeps working...forever? That's the kind of desenstizing help I need with my teeth! I really haven't noticed discomfort on my sensitive areas after four treatments.

I am really pleased that even after the first two treatments I've noticed a difference in my smile! I plan to do a more comprehensive review (with pros & cons, and a decision if I would actually buy this myself) when I finish the process completely, with a stunning before and after photo (the best part of anything.) But here's my before photo, at least!

Thanks to SmileBrilliant for providing me with a whitening kit to review! All opinions are my own.

If you've had an experience with at home (or otherwise) teeth whitening, I would love to hear about! 

Especially if you've tried SmileBrilliant before, tips & tricks appreciated!

Check out more SmileBrilliant reviews here,

and a video about how the SmileBrilliant process works here.

How Much Is Teeth Whitening

ipsy vs. Birchbox, October

Hip-hip-hooray, it's beauty day!

*This series originally started as I was trying to pick between the two subscription services. Right now, as long as I'm using up what I get, I don't plan to cancel either. And in the process, I'm trying out loads of new products, that I normally wouldn't!*

Check out the whole series right here:

September // August // July // June // May // April // March // February // January // December // November. 

So here's my glam haul from October:

Birchbox (left to right)

Avenè mask- Not my favorite, as far as face masks go. I like masks that harden or have some texture to them; this felt like lotion that disappeared without a noticeable difference. 

12 Benefits Hair Treatment- Guys, I actually blow-dried and styled my hair (and therefore sampled this product correctly!) I was nervous upon application, because it made my wet hair feel mega greasy; however, I'm pleased to report that after I straightened it, I could absolutely feel a glossy difference I like that this product is called "12 Benefit" - it covers all good hair things, and can be used as a multi-purpose aide. Will definitely use this again!

Eyeko mascara- ALWAYS a standout to receive in a sub, because whose makeup routine doesn't include mascara? This didn't necessarily wow me, but works just fine. 

 Yogini by Harvey Prince-  I may be the only one who enjoys perfume samples- they are too perfect for stashing anywhere for when you may need a pick-me-up (like after the gym!) I'm a fan of Harvey Princes scents, and even purchased Hello after sampling it. This one smells fresher and cleaner in comparison (Hello is a little more sweet- I like them both!)

Smashbox primer- This stuff has been described to me as "liquid gold" by beauty friends alike. So I tried it again, even though I recieved it a few months ago and didn't love it. I used it for Andrea's wedding. I didn't like the texture, and found that it applied/rubbed off almost like dead skin (I know that's gross, sorry, I don't know how else to describe that!) I want to love it! But I don't. Someone send help! Am I using it wrong?

*Favorite of the month!* I have to give it to the mascara, just because I really needed it, it works well, and I've been using it daily. Close runner-up is the hair stuff (and definitely wins in the "most surprising" category!)

It’s not that I don’t love pink or supporting breast cancer- it’s just that compared to amazing boxes past, this one is just whatever.

ipsy (left to right)

Beauty Without Cruelty lotion- A good sized lotion that’s not too greasy; and I actually enjoy that it’s unscented. I stuck this in my car and put it on during my drive to work every morning, #winterskin.

theBalm Meet Matt(e) Hughes Liquid Lipstick- I’m always excited to get a theBalm product; the shades, products, and branding/packaging are always spot on! This is a pink matte lipgloss/stick. The color is great, and the matte effect is cool, but if ANYONE knows how to keep matte lip stuff from getting weird after a re-apply, please share!

Touch in Sol Gel Brow Pencil in Mink Wink-  I was so ready to slam this product after trying it once, but I gave it another go. Cons- because it’s “gel”, it’s more glossy and less pigmented than a normal pencil. It also wear down SO FAST (I’m talking re-sharpening between brows.) Pros- my brows actually look more natural with this (also has to do with the shade) and it lasts longer than my normal routine! Also the spoolie is great bonus. My brows be unruly.

MicaBeauty Cream Eyeshadow in Bronze- A pretty shade, for sure, but it may be too orange-y. I generally like powdered shadow over crème, in terms of application, staying power, everything really.

Nourish Organic Argan Face Serum- My nighttime beauty routine pretty much solely consists of applying a serum before bed (after washing or whatever.) This was hard to put on, I worried about getting oil all over my pillowcases, hair, etc, and I woke up feeling oily. NOT cute. I like the principle of what they’re trying to do here, but I don’t think I’ll use this again. 

*Favorite of the month* My second trial of the gel brow pen makes it the best product my ipsy harvested in October! Eyebrows are the only thing that matter to me (in life, basically) and trying out a new product made me question the ‘brow groove I’ve been in lately. I’m now totally open to switching to a gel pencil (instead of the normal pencil + powder combo I’ve been using this year.)

Gold- so hot right now! This bag is super cute and on-trend, my only feedback being that I wish both sides were gold (the backside is patent leather, why?)

And the winner is...ipsy- for the simple reason that it had more products that I am interested in, and can use on a more regular basis (lip, shadow, brow.) 

This month marks one full year of this series! I gave up on actually trying to cancel one of the two subscription services months ago, but it has been interesting and helpful for me to keep track of what I've received. In case you're interested, the victories totaled by month are: ipsy- seven, Birchbox- six. So, ipsy barely edging out Birchbox for the win (though, it was very close and it's pretty irrelevant.) 

I've decided to retire this series for now, after a year of comparing & contrasting. What I would like to keep doing is a "spotlight" on anything I receive and LOVE. Mostly in the hope that this encourages me to keep using everything! Another thing I'd like to keep doing monthly:

The round-up of products I've loved and (likely!) lost:

- already seeing the bottom of this NYX eyeshadow palette. It's been a go-to since I got it! 

- This NYX balm lives in my pencil tin at work, and is the perfect subtle color on the go! 

- I've worn this Liptini lipstick several times, even choosing it for Andrea's wedding. If that doesn't make it an MVP, I don't know what would! 

- Just threw this Klorane dry shampoo away after finishing it up. Perfect for traveling, loved trying a tinted version. 

And that's it, for now! Thanks for following along with my ipsy vs. Birchbox series. How'd you do with your subscription services this month? Anyone try one of my products with a different result?

If you are interested in signing up for ipsy OR Birchbox (or both ;) for $10/month, you can find my referral links here: ipsy // Birchbox. View this entire series here. 

Layered Weekend

| sweater: gift (Canada) | dress: gift (ASOS) | socks: Target | boots: Frye via Amazon |

HI! These are the first moments I've had this week (Wednesday morning) to get this post together (Monday's outfit + last weekend's update.) So I guess things have been pretty busy around here. How's everyone doing out in the blogosphere and otherwise? Big plans for next week??

I wore this outfit Monday to work, and then to a surprise party for Chony, who turned 11. She got a bunch of makeup-type stuff and was gleeful about it- remember being that way when you were 11?

I know I just wore this dress and said it was the last time for the season. Then I remembered I've been wanting to wear it with a sweater, "jumper-style." I know I've seen a look like this on a blog or somewhere and loved it. Normally, I would say the dress & sweater are too close but not exact in color, but I dunno, aren't colorblocked neutrals in or something? I liked it. But now I've really put this dress away with my Summer clothes, so now I promise you won't see it until next year!

Quick pic of my dapper photographer, who put together a pretty nice looking outfit for himself <3

And now for some shenanigans from last weekend (hopefully these are still relevant!)

 Friday: dinner & dancing in 12 South with Lauren + Kyle, our cute friends  

Saturday: "puppet shows", Fraggle Rock, & general hangs with MC + L, (could you die at how cute??) 

Sunday: Katie & Matt got engaged! CONGRATS you two!! I completely set them up at this wedding.

That sums up things for now, and I would love to blog again soon. But no promises. 

Blanket Statements.

| scarf: Old Navy | dress: Old Navy | belt: from this dress | socks: gift (Madewell) | clogs: Old Navy |

I'll do my best to keep this post from becoming a novel. 

Notes on this outfit: A couple weeks ago, I wrote a post about how, ironically, I struggle to style the basic knit dresses I have in my closet. This is another one of those Old Navy gems that doesn't take much to be perfect. I think I've decided MY foolproof formula for a simple dress is a combination of all my favorite accessories. 

I wore this outfit last week, but I'm also wearing this scarf today! I saw a co-worker of mine recently wearing a big scarf like this, "shawl style." Like carrying a throw blanket around in the office. I'm into it! We launched our holiday party at the office today, and we're going with a plaid motif- perfect! 

I can't believe this is the first time I'm wearing my clogs with socks on the blog. Basically since Katie gifted me these last year, I've been pairing the two together. These socks + clogs just FEELS right! Also, what didn't make this post: the test photo of Hunter laughing at me, to my face, as he noticed I was wearing socks with clogs. 

I've been alternating between dark red & dark purple nail polish for the last couple months. The polish I'm wearing above is the Pacifica "7 Free" Polish in Bianca. I think I got this in my first ipsy ever? Really great nail polish in the most perfect dark red. Highly recommend! 

A few other blanket statements about my life right now:

- last week was THE CRAZIEST work week of my life, & I loved it! Still working my patootie off, that's why I've been AWOL.

- I don't even remember how to wear blanket scarves anymore.

- Our company holiday party is one month from TOMORROW. 

- I was so so lazy this weekend after last week. I'm the kind of person who gets anxious relaxing, but it was good.

- I also got my first gel manicure and massage this weekend (thanks, Huntee! It was my birthday present.) 

- If you need me tonight, I'll be cleaning my apartment. 

And really the last thing (promise!) I finally got my Poshmark account up and going. Thirteen items and counting, and I'll be adding as soon as I take some pictures. Check out my closet!