celebrating 34 years

howdy, 34!

i can barely believe it’s already my birthday again! CRAZY! nonetheless, 34 here we are. i took a moment to read my 33rd birthday post and ah, it was such a good one and a great reminder even a year later. if you know me, i love to celebrate life β€” all things BIG and small (everyday). and birthday’s are one of them that happen once a year! i’m a firm believer that YOU should always treat YOURSELF right! reflections, janna-style after the jump.

another unexpected color combo: an almost mustard color & black! also, i love the texture that this corduroy skirt adds with the knit sweater and the suede over the knee (OTK) boots. of course, by the time i get to posting it, the skirt is sold out #bloggerprobs. y’all know i can’t let a winter season go by without busting OTK boots out.

side ramblings: last week i was fortunate to attend Kendra Scott x Hillary Kerr's (founder of WHOWHATWEAR) fireside chat at the new KS flagship store in Austin (if you haven’t seen it, it is BEAUTIFUL. i can only imagine the thought and detail that was put into the entire space)! there's always something so empowering about being in a room full of women trying to build their empire #bossbabes. i always love surrounding myself with people like so. it was a great night and Kendra & Hillary imparted some pretty simple reminders to us (yes, i actually do take notes): nothing worthwhile is ever easy, trust your gut, less is more, be the CEO of your own career because no one will care as much as you do, lead with kindness. all great takeaways to apply in daily life. at this event i knew no one except one gal in passing three times, @heynasreen who introduced me to her friend @lisajmakeup AND guess what? that following monday, Lisa asked me to be apart of her photoshoot for a tshirt she’s launching for a good cause. um, HELL YEA. i am a firm believer in ALWAYS SHOWING UP. that is HUGE. no matter if you know anyone or not, or if you have no idea what you’re going to gain from it, etc… i’m all about building connections or what i call these touchpoints in life. you just never know who you’re going to meet or where it’s gonna take you. #powerofpossibilities

currently on my playlist: moving on by Mat Kearney

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i struggled to write this post. i scratched a lot of ideas, drafted and redrafted this. but i thought i'd just let it flow naturally. as i turn the corner to 34, i hope to be blinded by all the goodness that life has to offer. i want it to be so blinding that i have to pause and close my eyes to soak it all in. i hope to look at all set-backs and disappointments as a stepping stone to get me to where i need to be. in a recent conversation my GF stated, β€œyou don’t always get what you want, but you get what you need.” #dropmicquit and here is where i insert of one my favorite dozen quotes:

life is about the JOURNEY, and never the DESTINATION.

something that came to me recently was a saying on an @erincondren planner that was sent to me that i have embodied and continue to is, "design a life that you LOVE." i mean LOVE. what does this mean to you? to me, this means doing the things that i LOVE without a care in the world about anything/anyone else. it could also mean getting rid of the junk/people in your life that don't serve you well (and that you know don't serve you well). when things aren’t adding up right, it’s time to start subtracting. this also means knowing your self value/self worth without QUESTION! visualization is key here (and super nerdy so you know i'm on board), so visualize a life that you love β€” what does that look like? who's in it? what are you doing? what are you "driving" towards? ....and GO FREAKING MAKE IT HAPPEN! most of the time, the only thing holding you back is yourself! if you don’t know what you’re doing, FAKE IT TIL YOU MAKE IT! and if you’re overwhelmed, START SMALL. it doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you’re moving FORWARD & you’re actively making sh!t happen!! now is always the time. the most valuable currency we have is TIME. don't waste a second of it. don’t waste it on negative thoughts/people, blaming yourself, trying to change the past or re-work it. realize that the HERE, the NOW, the YOU are the only things you have control over. BUT allow yourself to believe that the next best thing is around the corner, you just have to open your eyes to be able to see it.

honestly, this probably makes zero sense to you, it’s written very much in what i dub to be janna-rambling-style. but all in all, it makes so much sense to me and that’s all that matters (bc who even reads this?! haha). cheers to you, janna, you’ve come a long way and you’re more sure of yourself than you have ever been in your entire life. stay focused, stay strong. i can’t wait to see what 34 has in store for you. whatever you do, make it #intentional & #EPIC.

top | ZARA off the shoulder sweater in black (old) β€” similar // similar
skirt | J.Crew Factory corduroy skirt in golden brandy β€” similar // similar with a ruffle hem // love this one in burgundy for $18
bag | Forever 21 faux leather o-ring backpack (sold out) β€” similar in suede // similar
shoes | Unisa saromi over the knee boot in black suede β€” similar in a block heel // similar from Target for $45
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black β€” love these for $55
necklace | Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace 
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

#cantstopwontstop,
JD

photo credit: Madeline Harper

the twist back sweater

couldn't let a winter season go by without OTKs (over the knee boots).

sometimes you come across a pretty good shein.com find, even if it's at 2AM. #score. i'm always on the fence about this online store because 75% of the time the stuff doesn't work for me and the fact that it takes FOREVER to ship. when it arrives you're like "oh yea.. i did order that." i know, #FWP. but everything i ordered was a keeper -- stay tuned! while i love mock neck, loose, and more practical sweaters, i am always drawn to the slouchy ones that you can pull off as a one shoulder. sometimes a lil skin never hurt anyone!! the front seems like a normal sweater but the back actually has a twist/knotted detail #sexyback. the good thing is that you can still wear a normal bra with this so def a bonus in my books. also works for a casual valentine's/galentine's outing!

side ramblings: it's hard to believe that it's FEB. YIKEs. i took a good break from all social media and blogging. it's funny because i actually had people messaging me asking if i was okay because i wasn't posting lol. and by "break" i mean three weeks, which is quite a bit for me -- going to bed at a decent hour, actually GETTING SLEEP. it's kinda crazy how when go from being sleep deprived 24/7 to actually getting sleep... you are even more tired. #cantwin. i'm also excited that the event world is picking up this week, it's been so dead lately but i'm looking forward to getting back on "the scene" with my girls! oh and #SXSW is just around the corner!!! hope y'all have a great week ahead and thanks so much for stopping by!

currently on my playlist: there for you by Troye Sivan ft. Martin Garrix

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top | Shein twist detail infinity sweater in burgundy (avail in 5 colors) -- available with a pearl embellishment // similar by LOFT // similar by ASTR // similar by Topshop
denim | Hudson Jeans nico mid-rise skinny jean in abbey wash (old) -- similar // love these by Citizens of Humanity // similar and $64
bag c/oHenri Bendel noho satchel in black pebbled leather -- same but more structured // similar and love this style because the handles fold down 
shoes | Unisa saranaa over the knee boot in black suede (old) -- current style // similar from Target! // love the low heel more
sunglassesCeline caty sunglasses in black -- similar
earrings c/o | Amanda Deer fan ear jackets in gold
necklace | Amanda Deer satellite choker in gold // Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace 
ringsGorjana amara ring set // Amanda Deer c/o CZ solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o CZ accents midi ring

rock all the sexy sweaters,
JD

photo credit: Steven Gunter

the suede skirt & sock booties

documenting my first pair of sock booties.

after some wear i have decided that sock booties are the perfect WORK bootie! something a little dressier than your average flat bootie and the chunky/block heel makes it a comfy pick for an 8 to 5 workday. while the shaft on these aren’t as tall as normal sock booties it works for me because i’m 5’2” short and anything taller would make me look shorter (if that makes sense).i love making workwear a little more trendy, so when i saw this suede skirt, i had to snag it for obvious reasons -- the length is so work appropriate. and hey doesn't hurt that it's in a beautiful olive color too! 

also, fitted mock turtlenecks are my staple in the fall/winter because they go with ALL skirts & are SO EASY PEASY. they’re so good i have probably four plain black ones! it's a pretty solid base layering piece and goes underneath sheath dresses too! speaking of work, i've been wearing this pebbled leather satchel as a work bag, it's a little different from my other structured work bags because it's made of slouchy pebbled leather and although the handles don't fall down, there's plenty of space & pockets. i've grown to love the pebbled leather slouchy-ness. 

side ramblings: it feels good to be back. i haven't shot much at all but now that it's getting cooler, IT IS ON. my holiday photos will be up on Monday, be sure to stop by! xx 

currently on my playlist: just give me a reason by P!nk ft. Nate Ruess

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the tweed skirt & over the knee boots

#fortheloveoftweed

i am such a fan of tweed. the texture, softness, and classy factor it brings to any wardrobe. the miniskirt is not my go-to but they are good to have on hand for an outfit with over the knee (OTK) boots! glad i snatched this one up in a heartbeat, i love the color, quality of the tweed and the front pockets that really stand out without being over the top. sticking to the classy-ness of tweed i opted for a roll neck long sleeve top and decided to layer more with my sleeveless trench coach complete with.... the ultimate classy accessories: brooch, pearl earrings, and a Chanel bag. i LOVE how it turned out! 

i also attended the Texas Conference for Women last week. i look forward to it every year, great speakers and sessions! here are my short and sweet take-aways:

  • show up. suit up. speak up.
  • fear is the doorway to opportunity. 
  • you know you're on the right track when everything seem
  • courage comes from taking baby steps.
  • beauty is the energy we put into the world.
  • call your shots.
  • be intentional. 
  • it ain't bragging if you can back it up.
  • how you face disappointment is far more important than how you face winning. 
  • there is no place in your life that you cannot lift from.
  • confidence is believing in what you deserve.
  • fear is not an option. 
  • make sure you are your own consistent cheerleader. 

i cannot believe we are at the last two months of the year! MY FAVE! hoping y'all have a wonderful thanksgiving -- eat lots, enjoy time with your loved ones, unplug, and be present! #qualitytimeisthebesttime

side happenings: sorry been MIA the past two weeks! they have been crazy fun with events, i was running from one thing to the next, it was so awesome! i'm trying to capture them in instastories #newbie (@jannadoan). from new restaurant previews -- Flower Child and Culinary Drop Out to fashion/crafty shows -- Flea Style in Dallas (my friend described it as Etsy in real life!) to the Nordstrom whowhatwear fall trunk show and heir fall beauty show to the Texas Conference from Women to other minglings including the Austin Blogger Mixer, PopSugar x Shop Style Collective (i'll just leave out the part where the hotel valet lost my car keys for a good hour....!), Kelly Wynne, and LUSH. i was thrilled to meet these beautiful and inspiring boss babes in person: @bagsnob // @hillarykerr // @brandypham // @shopkellywynne. also, appeared on the Camille Styles website, pictures from the Diptyque event last month! whoo hoo! 

currently on my playlist: better in time by Leona Lewis (totally throwin' it back)

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top | ASOS New Look ruche roll neck in black (i've worn this way too many times! it goes so well w all skirts for fall!) -- similar but ribbed // similar but cold shoulder 
duster | Shein sleeveless asymmetric trench coat in black (old) -- similar // similar but blazer style // similar with sleeves // 
skirt | ASOS Lost Ink tweed mini skirt with front pockets in gray (goes in and out of stock so always check back!) -- similar // similar with some fringe
bagCHANEL 2.55 classic double flap bag in black lambskin -- similar (avail in six colors) // similar // similar
shoesUnisa saranaa over the knee boot in black suede (avail in five colors!) -- similar from Target // similar with stiletto heel // similar but flat (just bought these and love them)
sunglassesKaren Walker number one sunglasses in black (rent them via ditto.com and use code "JANNADOANXOXO" to receive your first month for free on a designer sunglasses rental subscription!) -- similar
brooch | BaubleBar crystal donati brooch (old) -- similar but a bow // similar
earrings | Baublebar 360 pearl studs (old) -- similar // similar with pave // similar
watch c/oDaniel Wellington classic black cornwall 40mm watch (this is the NEW DW watch with a black face with ROSE GOLD details, a great statement piece for fall. use code "DOAN" for 15% off your purchase)
ringsBaubleBar ice chevron midi ring (sold out) -- similar // Gorjana candice CZ ring // Etsy stacking & midi rings
lipsMAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | Smith & Cult polish in dark like me

rock the tweed,
JD

the pencil skirt & cape blazer

finally some cape weather!

using existing clothes in my closet, i wanted to create an after hours look using a staple work item -- the pencil skirt. every lady has one or tons in her closet (hey, gotta account for all colors and seasons). i chose a crop top (of course) as a base and layered with a cape blazer aka: #notyouraverageblazer. i love all things cape, the cape blazer is no exception, while this one is old and does not have a collar, i have linked several options below. a collared black one is looking good right about now! blazers and capes are great staple pieces to have in any wardrobe as a final layering piece to polish any outfit. 

side note: JAM PACKED weekend y'all! but i ain't complaining. have y'all ever tried hand washing a SUV? oh nelly, that is #hardwork #elbowgrease. hung out with some Austin blogger babes this weekend and had a blast. check out their instagram feeds for some affordable style inspo: @stylebeacon // @byhilaryrose // @heykailymae // @kaleymargaret // @its.me.haylee. i always feel so blessed to be surrounded by so much talent but more importantly have more girlfriends (much needed in my life!)! oh, and saw one of my favorite artists -- MAT KEARNEY. gosh, i can't begin to tell you how much i love his music. there were really tough times in my life where his songs always speak to me. they have so much meaning and depth. i linked one of them below. "...i don't understand this windy road, nothing worth anything ever goes down easy."

currently on my playlist: on and on by Mat Kearney

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top | Forever 21 twisted front crop top in black (old) -- similar w curved hem // similar but sleeveless // similar w criss cross detail // similar w long sleeves 
blazer | Shein cape blazer in white (old) --similar // similar but collared and avail in three colors! // similar // similar in grey
skirt | Banana Republic pencil skirt in black (old) -- similar // similar w assymetrical hem // similar w mesh detail // similar
shoes | BCBG Generation darron patent pump in fuschia (old) -- similar w shorter heel
bag | Clare V. basketweave fold over clutch in black leather (old) -- similar // similar // similar w leo calf hair by Sole Society // popular Clare V. leo calf hair
sunglasses | Karen Walker flowerpatch cat eye sunglasses via www.ditto.com (use code "jannadoanxoxo" to receive one month of designer sunglasses rental for free!) -- similar but the newer style
earrings | Chloe + Isabel portica post drop earrings -- not similar but my fave C+I convertible studs!
ringsGorjana candice CZ ring in gold / Etsy stacking & midi rings
bracelet c/o | The Peach Box metallic t-bar bangle in gold (use code "jannadoan" to receive 15% off your purchase, good until 10/31)
watch c/o | Daniel Wellington classic black cornwall 40mm watch (this is the NEW DW watch with a black face with ROSE GOLD details, a great statement piece for fall. use code "DOAN" for 15% off your purchase)
lipsMAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la
nails | Smith & Cult nail polish in dark like me with gold nailart (first timer and loved it!)

rock the cape blazer,
JD