"The Reese"

- outfit details - 
top || Lucca (clearance find!)
jeans || Target
heels || Michael Kors (Dillard's clearance find!)
bag || "Reese" by Michael Kors (gift from my amazing husband!)
watch || Michael Kors
sunglasses || Forever 21

So I've never really had what I've always considered to be a "big girl" purse, partly because I could personally never justify spending my money on one (graduating college debt free was a way bigger priority!) and partly because I've never felt like I've reached that "grown-up" / "big girl" stage of life that warrants a purse of the same title. While I still can't totally justify spending money on a "big girl" purse (though I will admit I've noticed the extreme difference in quality!) and still don't quite feel like a grown-up (there are days when 16 seems like yesterday!), my amazing husband wanted to bless me with a gift for my birthday last week that he knew I've daydreamed about as my 25-year mark finally arrived. Reed is the best at making me feel special, valued and appreciated, especially when I don't feel worthy or the least bit deserving, so his heart behind this gift means ten times more to me than the actual bag (though let's be clear, I do LOVE the bag! ;) ).

I truly had a remarkable birthday week last week thanks to all the beautiful, thoughtful, loving people in my life! Every text, gift, tweet, post, hug, smile and birthday wish seriously meant the world, so THANK YOU to everyone who took that time! I love and appreciate you all so much! 

I wouldn't change a single thing about the first 25 years of my life. They by no means have been easy, and I'm not entering this new season of life free of problems and pain, but the faithfulness of my Heavenly Father makes it impossible for me to be discontent. The day I realized I had a choice to be thankful set my life on a course filled with unexplainable joy and peace. Paul says it best… 

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. 

I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, 

whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 

I can do all this through Him who gives me strength." 

Philippians 4:12-13

Fall Fedora + Textures

- outfit details - 
jacket || H&M (old)
sweater || Target
leggings || H&M (old)
boots || Calvin Klein (gift)
bag || Target
hat || Target

Well, fall is officially here! With these cooler, fluctuating temperatures comes the opportunity to experiment with various layers, textures and accessories. I have a feeling this burgundy fall fedora and I are going to be spending a lot of time together this season. I love wearing hats because 1) they're a lifesaver on bad hair days (or for trying to go as long as possible in between hair washes lol), 2) they can take an outfit to the next level, and 3) the extra warmth is always nice for a cold-natured person like myself!

When picking out a hat for your fall wardrobe, you can't go wrong with neutrals (black, brown, gray, etc.), though color can be fun! I went with this burgundy color because I tend to wear a lot of neutrals in the fall, so this particular hat will provide a nice, muted pop of color, as seen in this outfit.

Also, layering different textures is a great technique to keep in mind when putting together fall outfits. In this outfit alone there are six different textures (leather, faux croc leather, canvas, knit, felt, nylon). This technique also helps differentiate several pieces of the same color in one outfit.

Have a Happy Monday and thanks for stopping by!

Summer Rompin'

- outfit details-
romper || Charlotte Russe
heels || Charlotte Russe (similar)
bag || Francesca's Collections
cuff || Kohls 

The other night, my husband and I were showing his parents all of the photos we took on our cruise last month, and I found myself majorly missing the ocean! This was my first cruise, and I thought it was an absolute blast! We departed from Miami and made stops in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Both were beautiful, and Reed and I experienced a fun adventure at each place, which I'll hopefully share more about in future posts!

One of my favorite parts of each day of the cruise was getting dressed up for dinner! Even on the "casual" nights, I couldn't help but dress up a little! Besides, it was like getting to go on a date with Reed every night, and I love dressing up for our dates! :)

Rompers are one of my favorite summer clothing pieces. They're comfortable, chic, and take the guesswork out of coming up with an entire outfit. You can dress them up or down, depending on shoes, accessories, and hair/make-up. I tried to find a happy medium with this look. Because the romper has somewhat of a "loud" print, I kept my hair, make-up, and accessories super simple and neutral.

Thanks for stopping by and stay tuned for more cruise outfit posts! :)