currently

I love these types of blog posts. They are easy to write and just plain fun because you get to share all those little details about yourself that probably no one cares about but you want to do it anyway. That's what blogging is all about, right? Talking about things that people really love or talking about things that are totally pointless and that only you care about. This is one of those posts.

So I'm currently...

Listening // Fleetwood Mac's Rumours and ABBA's Gold. For Valentine's day Tyler got me a record player and the vinyls of both. He did a marvelous job. I'm obsessed.

Reading // Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari. It's taking me awhile but it's so interesting and not what I expected. Oh, and it's funny. I love funny books written by funny people.

Working // at Wallaroo Media. Full time. It's so different and I can't believe I've started this phase of my life. However, I enjoy it despite the feelings of stress and self-doubt I feel on a day to day basis. Any tips on how to be a mentally healthier human are always appreciated on this part of the internet.

Watching // West Wing and The Bachelor. West Wing is strictly for dinner time because it's easy to watch and it makes me feel smart. The Bachelor for when I want to be like every other girl in America and watch women who are so much more capable of doing other things make fools of themselves on national television. But I shouldn't judge because they are all there for the right reasons.

Wearing // Brown lipstick straight from the '90s. Black boots. High-waisted jeans. Oversized tunic shirt that looks more expensive that it really was.

Craving // Pizza. But when am I not craving pizza? But for real. For a long time, I didn't crave chocolate in fact thinking about eating it made me sick, but today we got chocolate from my mother-in-law in the mail and I realized how long it had been. I almost ate the whole bar.

Wanting // This sweater. This shirt. These boots. This plant. This planter. This print. This vinyl.

Feeling //  Ready for a long weekend. Aren't long weekends just a blessing sent from the Lord above?

Doing // Not necessarily doing these things but I want to. I want to grow my own plants and learn to cross stitch. I said I would in 2016 and I haven't yet.

Wishlist Wednesday // Staples

Whoooa there, a wishlist wednesday? I haven't done one of these in forever, but I thought I'd grace you with a classic post about classic pieces (or pieces that I think are classic). Basically I'm showing you some key pieces that I have in my closet that I never want to part from. Lez do dis.

1 // The Black Skinny Jean 

Oh you guys, I wish I could say mine weren't from J.Crew but they are. Mine have two rips in the knee and they are perfect in every way. They are mid rise, perfectly skinny and perfectly cropped. Ooo I love them. I did not buy them at $115 though, I got really lucky and got my pair during an end of season sale online. They were an extra 50% off, so keep an eye out, okay? They are the best and they go with just about everything. 

Also, any black skinny jean will do. American Eagle, Gap and even Levis have some great quality pieces. OH MY GOSH. I forgot about Old Navy. That place has bomb skinny jeans. The Rockstar Skinny Jeans are my favorite, and they are a decent price and they are always on some sort of sale. Really though, since I'm not the biggest leggings person, I love these. I also have a pocketless pair with a side zipper that I use that are jeggings, so there's an option as well. 

P.S. I honestly don't wear these a lot in the summer; I opt for a blue wash. Heck, I opt for shorts and dresses half the time. This post isn't supposed to be about summer staples, but I feel it's going that way. 

2 // A Shift Dress 

Whether it's floral, striped, chambray, pink, black, blue, white, orange, t-shirt material, poplin, or cotton, shift dresses are the most comfortable pieces for summer. I love this dress because of the summery print, but I also have so many others in plain grey, stripes or checker. You can throw them on, and if you are someone like me who has to worry about thighs getting sweaty and rubbing together, throw on some cute lace shorts...or garments, you know if you're Mormon. I also am a big fan of fit and flare dresses from Gap, H&M and Old Navy, but I feel like the shift is a little bit more laid-back and I'm all about laid-back. 

3 // A Midi Skirt 

Yours does not need to be black. My mom has the striped version and I saw someone with a cobalt blue version the other day. I love this thing. I wore it to my interview with Anthropologie with some booties and a structured eyelet blouse and it was great. It's airy, but sophisticated. You can also dress it down with some cook slip-ons or even an awesome band t-shirt. You heard it from me first. The midi length is totally cool now and it's a very versatile piece. 

4 // A Denim/Chambray Button-up 

I'm a loser when it comes to white button up shirts. They get so dirty when I wear them. I can wear every other white t-shirt or something, but when it comes to white button-ups I'm the number one winner when it comes to getting that stain. So I go for the chambray/tencel look because it's lightweight, breezy, and it gives you that street style look that you're (I mean I'm) looking for. 

Remember when the western denim shirt made a come back and it worked? Yes. I do. Praise. 

I strongly encourage you to try the half-tuck with this baby for maximum style effect. 

5 // A White Shirt Too Pretty to Get Dirty

In store, this baby is only $9.00 right now, I have a short-sleeve version of this and it's so dreamy. It looks great with just about everything. It's white. It's cotton. It's whimsical. It's girly. It's cool. Pop on some light wash denim or any denim for that matter and some gold jewelry then call it a day. 

6 // A Striped Top for all your Striped Top Needs

I don't have this one exactly, in fact, I have yet to find the perfect striped top. My latest one shrank so I'm keeping my eyes open. But this one is #goals. Thanks for getting me Madewell. Thanks for it all. 

7 // The Grey Pullover for Those Times in the Movie Theater When the AC is Just Too Chilly 

So mine is from Madewell and it's a complete different style. Again, a really good sale made we do it (harhar). But there is always a grey pullover somewhere in the fashion universe so don't get too disappointed. 

8 // Flats for When You Feel Fancy 

Holy goodness gracious, I love these flats. I have wide feet so D'Orsay flats are tough for me, but these are like butter. I love a good flat that makes you feel fancy. 

9 // Vans for Every Occasion

Because I have the classic black and white checkered pair and I can't get enough of them. I will wear them with everything (much to my mother's dismay). They are just that good. Sure you might think they look like nurse shoes, but I don't mind one bit. 

(Anyone else notice how my titles turned from practical to overdone in four five seconds? Me too.) 

EH...Stay Gold. 

Friday Favorites // Surprise yourself this weekend

// (This is a great article by the way.) 

Yeah that's right! I'm actually writing a Friday Favorites. There's something about Fridays that turns me into the laziest sap in the entire world. Lazy in all things. Except today I'm actually writing a post and I'm actually making dinner. Whoa. Whoa, right? Oh and I'm actually going to do laundry and actually get that makeup I've been meaning to get, because don't tell anyone but I've been using my mascara tube two months too long. Shock horror, am I right ladies? So after that salty confession, here are some cool things from the internet this week.

1 // Four pretty outfits. 

2 // Nine hilariously awkward and beautiful kisses.

3 // A guide to coats and NYC winters, or any winter for that matter. Except for you, California.

4 // The perfect reddish-orange lip color. It's a perfect pick-me-up for the face.

5 // Get rid of dry and flaky lips with this.

6 // A great, everyday uniform. 

7 // Cheetah goes with just about everything. Don't believe me? Ask every fashion editor ever. Get your affordable cheetah kicks here. 

8 // *Language Warning* SURPRISE YOURSELF. (this is probably my most favorite favorite ever.)

9 // I think I've found my favorite perfume ever. 

10 // Are you an UGGs fan? This guide to wearing them just might make me one.

11 // A classic shirt with an unconventional design. 

12 // These boots.

13 // This song to kick off my weekend.

+ h a p p y // w e e k e n d

& 

+ s t a y // g o l d

Saturday Stuff // What you should be buying...

Listen up, I've been pretty absent from the blog. I totally know it. I am the worst. But let's get real, I know only of like TWO people that actually read this blog. One of those people isn't even my mom. Yeah, I know. So here's what we're gonna do. We are gonna take what we can get. So here's what you should be buying at stores and crap right now. Or you could just dream of buying them. The first two items are kind of expensive but back in the day I had my time at Madewell and their stuff stands tested and true, and they are worthy investment pieces. Here we go now. 

1 // A good striped tee. And a not so classic one at that. I tried this one on in the store. I have enough striped things as it is, because I'm a big believer in not having enough stripes, but this...this sweater/tee combo is soft, flattering (the drape is incredible), and dare I say it? Unique. The color is called rustic twig and it worked well with my skin tone. If this rusty color doesn't fancy you, go for the classic black and white version on the website as well. 

2 // A black knit that you can throw on with just about anything? The Rowhouse Sweater is the way to go. The bright red one is on sale right now in stores and online. Size down and you will have the most perfectly oversized yet flattering sweater for fall. Do you like how I keep saying flattering? I have actually been caring about that shiz. No but really, this sweater is rad.

3 // A delicate gold necklace. I've seen so many of these lovely little things around campus right now. I want one for myself. 

4 // Gray skinny jeans. I converted when I read this post on Cup of Jo. 

5 // Shout out to my girl Anne who came to the conclusion with me that tan boots are always a good idea. Tan has made it's way up there with black as a go-to neutral. It's gotta be tan/camel. None of that dark brown stuff, and you're good to go. 

What are you gearing up to get this Fall? Let's talk it out. 

+ h a p py // s h o p p i n g 

& 

+ s t a y // g o l d 

Wishlist Wednesday // I'm going shopping, yo!

I get to go back to school shopping and I'm pretty stoked about it. Pretty darn stoked. Here are some things I have my eye on.

Oh and this is long. Loooooooooooooong.

1 // Everlane just came out with their Fall Raglan Seed Stitch Sweater, and I am all about that life. I need to branch out. I think this color is called pine. Pine. Trees. I dig. 

2 // The short sleeve sweatshirt is classic, easy, simple, and ever so stylish. Don't you think? 

3 // Of course you need a navy sweater in your closet. 

4 // And a boxy black one. Make no mistake you need one of those. 

5 // Get this. These are at Target right now. 

6 // And these are at the Gap. Talk about beautiful. 

7 // Because I love Vans. And I really want these. And they are affordable. And they are tomboy chic. 

8 // Metallic slip-ons get in my closet. 

9 // I want another pair of black skinnies. 

10 // A classic dark wash is also a must. 

11 // Part of me wishes these weren't cords. Oh wait. Maybe I like them as cords. The more I look at them...the more I like them. 

12 // Another good classic pair. 

13 // Taza has this shirt, therefore; I need this shirt. 

14 // If you want a more refined denim. 

15 // I am so into this red plaid thing. I am so about it. About that life, people. 

16 // This dress! This. You may hate it, but I love it. I want to wear it with my white vans. Gosh I want it so bad. 

17 // This is at old navy for like $10 bucks. Run, don't walk. Go ahead and get it in every color. Also, show this lady some love. These hoodies are darling. 

18 // Gah! This one too! 

19 // A pop of red in a chunky knit. Isn't that fancy? 

20 // I've never been a fan of cropped anyone until I saw this. Now wouldn't it be darling over a dress? 

21 // This has whack reviews, but I don't even care because it's beautiful. 

22 // *sigh* leather goodness. See...my black heart is coming out. 

23 // Oh hello Dani in a sweater! Hello, indeed. 

+ h a p p y // w i s h i n g 

& 

+ s t a y // g o l d 

Monday Musing // I don't even know what to blog about...

my brain right now

Yeah, I don't know what to blog about. I am kind of thinking that a hiatus is in order. Maybe after this week. I don't want to force anything. I do have a fun summery post ready for Wednesday, it's going to be great. Just fantastic and fun, really. Maybe just stay tuned for that. 

I just started a really good work out regimen. I started using My Fitness Pal. I will have gotten some pretty rad sandals by the time you read this. I am on the hunt for light wash jeans that I can wear in the office. I let go of a pair that cost only $12.97 at the Gap. I think I am going to run back tomorrow and see if there is anyway or any hope that someone didn't snatch them up. If you know of any great places that sell really nice jeans for a good price, let this chica know. I am the queen of jeans, but I really can't wear the same pairs every single day of the week. I need some variety and some light wash in my life. 

The fourth of July is this week. Oh what fun. Bring on the watermelon and corn on the cob. Tyler has never done street fireworks so that will be new and the carne asada will be prime. 

Every single day I learn a little more about myself, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I really like to learn about myself. The little hidden quirks that come to light. The insecurities that I overcome. The warmth I feel within me. It's a good feeling. Have any of you experienced something like that? 

And now to conclude...some songs that I have been digging...just two so I don't spoil the playlist. 

It's All Coming Back to Me Now by Celine Dion 

& 

When I Fall in Love by Sam Cooke 

+ h a p p y // m o n d a y 

& 

+ s t a y // g o l d 

p.s.  feel free to share some of your musings with me. 

Wishlist Wednesday // T-Shirt Dresses

Ladies and Gents, t-shirt dresses are SO important. They really are. Well to me anyway. They are so incredibly easy to wear. Like, you can basically wear them with ANYTHING. Today, I am wearing one with a sweatshirt tossed over it. I got loads of compliments on it. Other times, I have played them up with a cardigan, scarf, or necklace. And let me tell you...they look BOMB with Birkenstocks they just do. So here we go...a wishlist with bits and baubles that I have compiled for the perfect t-shirt dress outfit.

First // The dresses. I own these two below and I absolutely love them. I bought them in XXL. I know , you probably think I'm crazy, but they actually rock. And it looks good. Believe me...my mom told me they did and if she says that then, I'm gold. Both can be found at Target. So great, right? They also come in different colors and stripes. I love it. I personally like neutral items that go with loads of things. Or maybe I'm just afraid of color and too lazy to style all of that mish mash.

1

2

Here are some other ones that I'm wishing for...

ASOS, why are you so dreamy? 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

Now here are some great extras for your t-shirt dress. Mind you, you can totally wear it plain and you will still look chic. Yes, I said chic.

3 // A straw hat?! I mean, really. How good is this straw hat? 

4 // And if you don't like straw, you can mix prints and go for a floral baseball cap. I mean, cool. Right? 

5 // Now this is my favorite cardigan I have ever owned. When I say it's neon pink...I mean it's neon pink and it looks rad with my striped dress. 

6 // Friends, this is on clearance at Target right now. Don't buy it online. Just run to the store and grab it. It's amazing. And super bright. It looks bomb with navy and white. 

7 // Okay, I might have lied...this one might be my favorite. Nothing beats pineapples. Ever.
I forgot to tell you...these are currently 15% with the Target Cartwheel app. 

8 // Ugh. Must resist. You already have a pair. BUT the white. Gosh goodness. 

9 // Ahem. This belt comes in so many colors. It's amazing. I don't know why you wouldn't buy all of them? All of these belts are good, naturally. 

Finally, get inspired by these pins I found on Pinterest! Grab your t-shirt dresses and go. Run with it. Don't look back.

10 //  Literally am doing everything I can NOT to go out and buy the black version at Target. 

11 // Linen. Sigh. 

12 // Maternity T-shirt dress? Get out of here. 

13 // How I would do it. I love the baby doll look. Makes it a little more feminine. 

14 // The color and accessories are so refreshing.  

15 // The perfect outfit for any college girl on a budget. 

+ h a p p y // w i s h i n g 

& 

+ s t a y // g o l d 

p.s. feel free to try your own variations. i also love these dresses with floral flats , statement necklaces, and vans.