the one shoulder sweater & felt hat

#thehatswewear

HOWDY. confession: i accumulated more hats than i ever need in 2017 (jk, i might get the Dahlia ASAP, haha!). but i can't help it, i've become such a fan of a good wide brim hat. not sure why or how that is, maybe it's because my beautiful friend Jen // @mrsjenfrick is always rockin them. so of course, we had to partner with @gigipip to bring you our fall outfits styled with @gigipip! the love for @gigipip is insane i already own three -- the Faye (boater hat), the Jill (floppy straw hat), and now the Scottie (felt wide brim). the Scottie is beautiful amirite?! it's adjustable, the leather band is removable, and the best part is that the wide brim is STIFF! it ain't goin' anywhere y'all! not only that but the price points are so good for the quality. 

Jen // mrsjenfrick.com styled her Scottie with a beautiful black coat (gift from her husband, hello #husbandgoals), boyfriend jeans, and some cognac booties check out her entire outfit details on her blog at mrsjenfrick.com. Jen lives in Kansas so i'm pretty envious of all the fall foliage they get up there! we get nothing like that in Texas. everything just dies and turns brown, #nojoke. i choose to go casual style as well, with a cream one shoulder sweater (I LOVE THIS SWEATER! also comes in other colors), skinny jeans and some riding boots! this was a fun shoot so picture heavy post coming at cha! other ways to wear this outfit: a cute bralette would look great underneath the sweater or even some over the knee boots. 

also, for this collaboration Jen & i answered some interview questions about all the hats we wear, more after the jump! it was a fun one and rarely do i answer interview questions so hope it's a good read & that you got to know a little more about me. PS -- stay tuned for a GIGIPIP giveaway! 

side ramblings: i cannot believe thanksgiving is THIS WEEK! the insanity. i can't wait to wear stretchy pants and stuff my face. yearly tradition at the Doan household is turkey & ham with all the fixins and PHO. i make sure that everyone leaves feeling thankful & unbutton-your-jeans-kind-of-full. there's so much i'm thankful for this year. but as my yearly saying goes, i'm thankful for the small things in life which are actually the big things. enjoy your thanksgiving and thanks for stopping by! xx

currently on my playlist: better than i use to be by Mat Kearney & AFSheeN

the beautiful @mrsjenfrick rockin' the Scottie

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01. what are the roles or hats you lead in your life?

i, janna doan, find myself alternating hats between a blogger, homeowner, aunt, friend, sister, daughter, foodie, and program manager. 

02. which hat do you find most rewarding?

ah, the homeowner hat. as much as i love blogging, i have to say... becoming a SINGLE homeowner has been the most rewarding. the house search was a long process, mainly a beatdown! but as they say, the perfect one will come along. and it sure did. it's my dream home and finally... something to call my own. #tearsofjoy #adulting

03. what hats do you find are most challenging and what do you do to embrace them?

as the homeowner hat is the most rewarding, by default it means it is the most challenging! from mowing my own lawn/yardwork, to cleaning vents, to fixing various things, to painting, etc... wow. i've learned so much along the way and by golly, there is so much pride in ownership over here!! however, a lot of times i have to be patient with myself and honest in the fact that i cannot do everything myself. i need help. and thank goodness i have my dad who's my right hand man. i'm learning so many things from the absolute greatest. 

04. what hats are least known about you?

the program manager hat. my day job consists of managing healthcare quality improvement programs, looking at healthcare data, making it more accessible for public reporting. it's pretty nerdy stuff but i spend a lot of time in Excel and various data programs. one of my strengths has got to be attention to detail (surprise!)! #nerdalert yep, that's the day job! 

05. who or what inspires you?

there is SO much inspiration everywhere, literally around every corner, and every time i get sucked into the world of instagram or pinterest i am amazed by all the talent out there and yet there is so much unseen! i am also so blessed to have so many insta/blogger friends that inspire me to try new things and step out of my comfort zone. after all, what's fashion if it ain't fun?!

don't forget to check out Jen's post here!: mrsjenfrick.com

top | Treasure & Bond one shoulder ribbed sweater in beige oatmeal (runs large, wearing size XS) -- very similar // similar with ruffles // similar but velvet!
denim | Hudson nico mid-rise skinny jeans in abbey wash (old) -- similar in the bright eyes wash// similar in high rise by Wit & Wisdom $65
hat c/o | GIGI PIP scottie (should be in stock soon!) -- similar // similar
shoes | Frye melissa button boot in cognac (old design) -- newer design // similar for $150
bag | Celine micro luggage tote in navy -- similar
earrings | Kendra Scott kirstie stud earrings in ivory pearl -- similar
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold
rings | Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // Amanda Deer c/o solitaire ring // Amanda Deer c/o midi ring with CZ accents

rock all da felt hats,
JD

photo credit: Brandon Hill
a post done in collaboration with GIGI PIP. 
hat provided by GIGI PIP, all opinions are my own. 

holiday ready with Banana Republic

before you freak out, it's faux fur. 

today on the blog, i'm gonna get you holiday ready (without being TOO holiday-ish if that makes sense!!) with @BananaRepublic! is it too early? NEVER! this is my favorite time of the year when everyone comes together, there's more gratitude in the air, lots of stuffing of faces happening, finding that perfect gift, wrapping paper (don't get me started on wrapping paper) and.... FASHION! i love all the layering, prints, and textures. fall fashion is HIGH on my list, also especially since you can wear all black and it's suddenly acceptable. 

holiday style two ways -- with a faux fur collar cardigan and a bow tie sweater. the cardigan (comes in three colors, i'm wearing oatmeal) is really warm.. trust me, i was sweating major bullets shooting it in the TX heat not to mention the lighting was such a struggle! super soft and the best part is the removable faux fur collar so you can wear it more casually. sometimes it's all about them options isn't it? i've come to love small doses of fur and this one is no exception. i'd also try to belt this cardigan too. the sweater comes in 11 colors and it has the daintiest bow cuff! hello like little bunny ears! i digress, of course i paired this one with an old striped skirt, pearls, and my gift bow earrings. and yes, those red lips are a must every holiday season!! 

side ramblings: first things first, the sephora sale.. what did you buy?! @TATCHA is also having their friends & family! -- no such thing as too much tatcha, and at 20% off and tax free to texas, it's like a no brainer. i highly recommend: the essence, luminious mask, brightening serum, misting spray. good until 11/16. also, i've thought about starting a youtube channel, mainly focusing on skincare routines and reviews of things?! just a thought lingering in the back of my mind (for the past year...)! i just need to do it. spent sunday brunching on the farm hosted by @astateofkoko and shot some christmas photos with some Austin blogger babes, can't wait to share!! thanks for stopping by & see ya next week! xx

currently on my playlist: sorry not sorry by Demi Lovato

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LOOK 1 // faux fur collar cardigan

cardigan c/o | Banana Republic merino blend boyfriend cardigan with removable faux fur collar in oatmeal
top | H&M loose crop top (way old) -- similar with bow detail!
denim | Hudson nico mid-rise skinny jeans in black -- similar // similar but distressed 
shoes | Jimmy Choo abel pumps in black patent (old design) -- current design // similar // similar and custom
bag | Louis Vuitton medium neverfull in monogram canvas
earrings c/o | BaubleBar magnolia hoop earrings -- similar and on sale // similar
necklace | etsy monogram necklace in dearest daddy initials (1.25" and 20" chain) -- similar by BaubleBar // similar in acrylic
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black
rings | Gorjana c/o shimmer stacking ring set // Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring -- similar // BaubleBar tri bar ring (old) -- similar // Cassandra Collections c/o mini ring
lips | MAC amplified creme lipstick in brick-o-la

LOOK 2 // bow cuff sweater

top c/o | Banana Republic bow-cuff crew in black -- similar in a ruffle cuff and styled here
skirt | Topshop striped midi skirt (old) -- similar by chicwish
shoes | Jimmy Choo abel pumps in black patent (old design) -- current design // similar // similar and custom
bag | ZARA velvet minaudiere in black (old) -- similar in crushed velvet
earrings | etsy gift bow stud earrings in gold (yes, you need them)
necklace | Forever 21 pearl bib necklace (way old) -- similar
rings | Gorjana c/o shimmer stacking ring set // Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring -- similar // BaubleBar tri bar ring (old) -- similar // Cassandra Collections c/o mini ring
lips | Christian Louboutin velvet matte lip color in rouge 001M (FAVE RED) -- similar in a matte liquid

photo credit: Steven Gunter
a post done in collaboration with Banana Republic. 
tops provided by Banana Republic, all opinions are my own. 

jdc turns three

better late than never. 

i had the hardest time writing this post which is probably why it has been in draft mode since early October. it's crazy to believe that jannadoan dot com (JDC) is now THREE (two months later). year three has taken me to "places" i never imagined. i have no clue what year four will look like but with zero expectations, i am sure i'll be pleasantly surprised. in year three i signed & negotiated some of my first contracts, worked with some HUGE brands, and received more features on websites and social platforms than i ever dreamt. other highlights of year three include the austin blogger holiday themed shoots: christmas // galentine's day // easter picnic. New York Fashion Week parts 1 // 2 // 3, AND Austin Fashion Week, and of course i can't forget all the numerous PR events sprinkled throughout each month! 

i'm really grateful for these opportunities and sometimes it's just good to sit back and reflect. i needed this. with the house and everything else going on with my life, i took a long break from a lack of inspiration/motivation, struggled to write this post, and even for a split second i thought about quitting altogether. then of course, i was slapped in the face (figuratively) with, "you have come too far to quit." yes, i have actually. the truth is, JDC is quite an expense. from the entire outfit, to the photography, right down to the mechanics of having a website. not including TIME. that's a huge expense as well. when the thought of quitting wandered into my mind i thought about what i would be doing if i wasn't blogging... hmm. watching TV? well, i would be sleeping more that's for sure. but when i weigh the friendships i've made (from all over) and the experiences i've gained, those are more than enough for me to say it is so worth it. without JDC, i would be the most boring person, no social life, i wouldn't be out there pushing my boundaries and challenging myself, and i wouldn't have the drive or motivation it takes to run a business. this is my happy place. this is meant to be. 

anyways, long story short, i'm sharing a few random things i learned in year three. more after the jump. and while reviewing my year two post, a lot of it remains the same! but in summary, always stay true to yourself, your personal voice and never lose sight of what is important to you. all that goes a really long way. 

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01. JDC is a business.

this was the year i stopped calling my blog a hobby. it is not a hobby, it's a side business. this was a huge change of mindset for me. while i am not diminishing that all great things start out as hobbies fueled by passion, i'm simply stating that i've started to care less of what people would think of me ('oh brother, another photo of herself?!' YES, i really do get tired of posting photos of myself believe it or not!!) and more about how i'm going to grow this business while staying true to myself/my brand. 

02. quality >> quantity

growing up, my dad would always say to me, "if you're going to do it, do it right or don't do it at all." (he was a tough man and for good reason). i instill this in my everyday life, work, and here. it's not about striving for perfection (though you can if you want) or pleasing others it's more about creating something that is a direct reflection of you -- your value & standards. if something isn't quite right, redo it. if something is off, fix it. go that extra mile, put in that extra time and always make it right. 

03. instagram = staged life.

while i am a huge advocate for instagram, it is pretty much always staged so you should never be fooled by the squares. just because i'm smiling in all my photos does not mean that my life is perfect. often times, i do my hair or even nails sometimes just for photos and have no where to go afterwards! let's not mention the 7AM summertime shoots when i look like a crazy person all dressed in a holiday outfit in the August heat... just know that any great photo comes with styling and details that are well thought out. 

04. i have no idea what i'm doing.

this is what i tell a lot of people who want to pick my brain... blogging is a journey. it's different for everyone. there isn't one formula that says do x,y,z = and boom FAMOUS. it doesn't work that way, DUH! the truth is, even after three years, i'm still trying to figure out my way. and yet, i have so much to learn!! everyone's goals and intentions are always different. for me, i will never want to blog full-time. shocking, i know. but for me this will always be my side hustle. it's not that i'm limiting my dreams, but i'm realistic in what i want and very in tune with my happiness. 

05. never underestimate the power of a question.

this is HUGE. often times the biggest thing holding us back is our self. mainly our fear. fear of what someone else will think, fear or rejection, fear of the truth, fear of not being good enough, etc... a lot of times we're hesitant to ask because we're afraid of the answer. but in hindsight, that's all such bullsh*t. punch fear in the face. just sayin'. you won't believe how far the power of a question has gotten me and all the doors it has opened. you never know until you ASK. period. oh, and believe in yourself, because if you don't no one else will. 

dress | ZARA bell sleeve shift dress in yellow (old) -- similar but more fitted and on sale for $48 // similar // similar and avail in three colors
shoes | ZARA vinyl d'orsay heels in white (old) -- similar with studs
bag | ZARA mini crossbody bag in white (old) -- similar 
earrings | Kendra Scott joelle earrings in turquoise (old) -- similar in a KS classic style // similar but smaller & lighter
sunglasses | Celine tilda sunglasses in dark tortoise -- similar and love these!
necklace | etsy monogram necklace in dearest daddy initials (1.25" and 20" chain) -- similar by BaubleBar // similar in acrylic
bracelet | BaubleBar gold mary links bracelet -- similar but pave
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold

cheers to year four adventures, 
JD

photo credit: Brandon Hill

 

styling a camel cardigan

camel + black. 

something about this color combo that always looks so good -- on everyone. today, i'm partnering with @bananarepublic in styling this camel cardigan two ways (some of my favorite types of posts): work style and a night out. this cardigan has a lil oomph because of the chevron stitching! for some work inspo i paired it with some black ankle pants (i know i'm actually wearing pants... it's very strange huh?!). i'm usually more of a scuba-material (thicker, less form fitting) fan when it comes to work pants but i was surprised at how much i loved this bi-stretch material. not too tight or too loose and it's a mid-rise for the over-thirty-crowd. the cardi goes over quite a few work tops even long sleeve blouses or a long sleeve button down for the colder months. for a night out i went with my trusty go-to plain cami and black jeans. a complete monochrome look with a pop of camel. with this outfit i choose to dress it up with some @kendrascott jewelry from the fall 2017 line, also love this fun cuff! the y-necklace goes perfectly with the v-neck cami and a statement ring to top it off. 

side ramblings: homeownership as a single woman has been very interesting. oh the things i've learned or had to do. i find myself at @homedepot almost every other day (ok, maybe every other week), my hands have become some major working hands but i'm so determined to make it on my own. suddenly, having to buy decor and "essentials" is EXPENSIVE. like... how is a mirror $600? is it a magic mirror, does it make you look skinnier, tell you you're the fairest of them all?! i think i've lost count on how many times i've asked myself rhetorically, "how much is this?!" in disbelief. adulting is expensive, and you didn't just hear that here. i'll have to do a post on all the things i've learned thus far one day. i think it'll be a fun addition to ze blog. lastly, it's ACL weekend one!! last year i attended for the first time and i really don't know how people go for three days. one/half day is PLENTY for me. see ya next week!

currently on my playlist: feel it still by Portugal. The Man

work wear.

a night out. (steven suggested i hop on the rail.. lol, i'm glad he did!)

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LOOK 1 // work wear

top | Ann Taylor sleeveless button down in cream (so old) -- similar w a high neck // a long sleeve option w bow // similar
cardigan c/o | Banana Republic italian supersoft cheveron stitch cardigan in camel (also comes in grey)
pants | Banana Republic bi-stretch avery pants in black -- similar in lightweight wool 
necklace | Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace 
earrings | Kendra Scott tima stud earrings in gold (favorite work earrings) -- similar // another good work stud option
bag | Henri Bendel uptown satchel in black (old design) -- similar 1 // similar 2
shoes | Jimmy Choo abel pumps in black patent (old design) -- current design // similar // similar and custom
sunglasses | Karen Walker number one sunglasses in black
rings | Gorjana c/o shimmer stacking ring set // Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring -- similar // BaubleBar tri bar ring (old) -- similar // Cassandra Collections c/o mini ring

LOOK 2 // a night out

top | H&M cami in black (way old) -- similar from LOFT // similar from BR
cardigan c/o | Banana Republic italian supersoft cheveron stitch cardigan in camel (also comes in grey)
denim | Hudson nico mid-rise skinny jeans in black -- similar // similar but distressed 
shoes | Madden Girl bella block heel sandal in black -- similar from Target $30 // similar from Target with a shorter heel $28
ring c/o | Kendra Scott blithe cocktail ring in black granite (new fall line) 
necklace c/o | Kendra Scott lucielle y necklace in crystal ivory illusion (new fall line)

rock the camel + black,
JD

photo credit: Steven Gunter
a post done in collaboration with Banana Republic. 
cardigan provided by Banana Republic, all opinions are my own. 

nyfw part 3

more nyc moments.

the last post of my first #NYFW experience (sounds weird?!)! it's ending with the most basic attire -- a tee shirt dress. yep. but gosh, it's so soft and comfortable, i knew i had to take it with me and i'm so glad i did. i dressed it up with layered necklaces and some spunky ear jackets. i layered it with a cardigan and later with a leather jacket. i love this dress not only for how soft it is but also because it goes with so many shoes (sneaks, sandals). i wore them with these booties from Everlane which are made in Italy and you know those italians know how to make some high quality shoes! they are my first pair of black leather booties since i usually gravitate towards suede but the leather is such a good option because you don't have to worry about the rain!

NYC trips to me are usually about food and sight seeing. this trip all-together was WAY different. in a good way though. it made me think of all the opportunities this blog has given me & where it has taken me. it's a tad crazy and unreal. the shows were great and all but meeting people -- instagram friends, brand reps etc.. in real life was the best (and this is coming from an introverted person). i'm sure i'll find my way back next fall. signing off, crossing NYFW off my bucket list & feeling super good about it. until next time NYC.

general tips on NYFW (as a first-timer!) // 

  • be flexible because whoa nelly, things are going to happen very last minute!
  • to uber or to taxi? -- if you need to get somewhere fast, hail a cab. ubers can take a while to get to you
  • bring plenty of business cards
  • make appointments with brands/people you've worked with!
  • bring a reusable bag with you that you can put your change of shoes, water bottles, or any gifts that are given to you etc.. 
  • which brings me to.. leave room in your luggage for swag
  • show up EARLY
  • an external battery charger is a must! @mophie makes my favorite one!
  • lastly, don't go at it alone, have a NYFW buddy that you can tag team with!

as uncomfortable as i was, i'm so glad Angie made me do this shot! 

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day 4 // September 11, 2017
i should begin by saying, by this day i'm already walking like a new yorker haha, crossing before the light tells you too. #prettyproud #littlethings. the day starts with a brand meeting that i've worked with -- @maggylondon! Michelle was my PIC for the day and we headed to meet our rep at their headquarters which... BTW, is pretty dang cool! they have all fabrics in house and make the samples right there!! #socool. Michelle and i saw some of the upcoming collections and let me tell you, i am pretty excited!! as you already know, dresses are my JAM. PS -- you can see me wearing the new Maggy London Elizabeth cold shoulder midi in my #NYFW part one post. after the tour i headed to brunch with one of my instagram friends who always inspires me @browneyedtoast (i know.. her instagram is total goals). she was an absolute DOLL and i'm so glad she actually took the time to meet me!! we had such a great chat and could probably talk for hours! she took me under her wing that day and got me into the lounge where there were plenty of drinks & swag. here we bumped into her friends which she quickly introduced me to. gosh, i'm really thankful for people like her who are so genuine and truly want to help you. after parting ways, i trekked to @bobaguysnyc (had to get my fix ya know?). thankfully, Michelle was able to get me into another fashion show (hello front row) by @lanyu where... we spot Paris Hilton & Katie Holmes!! #pinchme!! lastly, it is a rare moment to be in NYC on 9/11 so Michelle and i dropped by the memorial and spent some time there. the night ends with the only restaurant i had to visit while in NYC (hands down the best korean food ever) @kanghodongbaekjeong! oh and my first subway ride in NYC!! 

day 5 // September 12, 2017
the last day/morning was very low key. i woke up super early to make my way to @levainbakery for the infamous chocolate chip cookies! or should i say chocolate chip cookie weights? though they have other cookies & goodies i went straight for the CC. i treked through some parts of Central Park enjoying the last moments of the beautiful and cool NYC weather, mid 70s #perfect. afterwards i headed to my @BaubleBar meeting where i finally got to see their headquarters and the new fall collection! i was also able to meet my rep in real life (so cool!). then a trek to JFK where i thought about the amazing experience i had and how i did not want to come back to work lol. good thing i took another day off. pro tip: always take an extra day off when you come back from travelling! oh, and book a massage too! #thewayiroll. 
 

dress | GAP softspun knit v-neck midi tee shirt dress in black (old) -- similar by Everlane // similar with high-low hem // similar but sleeveless and more fitted // with long sleeves
shoes c/o | Everlane the heel boot in black (TTS, i got a 6 in these to account for some sock but should have gotten my usual 5.5) -- similar by Marc Fisher // similar from Target  
cardigan c/o | Banana Republic italian supersoft cheveron stitch cardigan in camel -- also would look good with a leather jacket // or this one with gold hardware  
bag | Gucci marmont matelasse shoulder bag in nude -- smaller version // similar
earrings | BaubleBar champagne ear jackets -- similar
necklaces | Anthropologie monogram pendant necklace // Gorjana mave lariat in gold
rings | Gorjana c/o shimmer stacking ring set // Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring -- similar // BaubleBar tri bar ring (old) -- similar // Cassandra Collections c/o mini ring
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold

rock all the tees,
JD

photo credit: Angie Garcia

NYFW day 4 & 5 in squares 

@maggylondon HW // oh hey ma, they have my photo up in their HQ!! #PINCHME // brunch scene @eggshopnyc 
my girl @browneyedtoast LOVE her // @stylebeacon on fiyah with the paparazzi // hello velvet jumpsuit @lanyu
ground zero on 9/11 // beautiful morning in @centralparknyc // meeting at @baublebar HQ

nyfw part 2

can't get enough of these New York photos!

finally winding down from the weekend/housework and finding some time to regroup and gather my thoughts for this post. i wanted to cover some things i learned in terms of dress for NYFW. as mentioned in my part 1 post, i didn't have much time to pack or plan. AND i actually checked in a luggage for the FIRST TIME EVA. haha. i usually travel pretty light but this time it was actually nice to have that extra space -- this could become a thing now hrmmm.. 

tips on packing for NYFW // 

  • mix old + new -- this is a great way to brush off some older items in your closet and restyle it! here i used a work pencil skirt to style with this really fun asymmetric top that shows a little skin, oh and it's a designer dupe at a $16 steal! usually when you wear something entirely new, chances are someone else will be wearing it. not that there isn't anything wrong with twinning. 
  • dress for comfort -- while i'm a huge fan of fashion i went with more basic & comfortable items because i knew it was going to be long hours and lots of walking. i even wore a tee-shirt dress. haha, featured in part 3 #comingsoon.
  • bring comfortable shoes (or bring lots of shoe options!!) -- even bringing tennis shoes or extra shoes with you to change into is a HUGE must. i found that no matter what you wear, after hours your feet will start to hurt! pack chunky heels, platforms, tennis shoes, flats, wedges but no stiletto heels!! PRO TIP: DO NOT. i repeat DO NOT bring new shoes that you have never worn. ever. your feet will thank me. 
  • pick versatile outfits -- meaning pick outfits that go with multiple shoes. in real time, i actually wore this outfit with booties because by day 2 my feet were already killing me!! or dresses that also go with sneakers!
  • go for statement layering pieces -- this i'll prob try to do this next time. but i think layering pieces are good to add such as a leather jacket, a hat, a statement bag or necklace esp over more basic pieces. 
  • grab a good bag -- i do not mean little box bags like the one i'm wearing here (hello, that was just for pictures lol) but something that actually fits a good amount of stuff because YOU WILL NEED IT! i brought my Gucci Marmont with me and it went with everything and fit just the right amount of items. also, a crossbody is MOST useful. the last thing you want it do is bring a bag that ties up one hand. #handsfreealltheway.
  • lastly, wear whatever you feel is YOU -- this is the most important tip. style and fashion changes from one person to another. and just because it's fashion week doesn't mean that you need to show up in the most outrageous attention grabbing outfit. be yourself. that's what my mom always says. ;D

stay tuned for part 3. the last, i promise! xx 

PSA -- @baublebar is having their friends & family SALE! use code "BIGONE" for 25% off your purchase, good until 9/27/17! a few of my picks that i own and wear myself: firecracker ear jackets // champagne ear jackets // acrylic block monogram necklace // criselda ball drop earrings // gem pinata tassel earrings // vivian tassel earrings // gold mary links bracelet 

currently on my playlist: titanium by David Guetta ft. Sia

trying not to get run over. 

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day 2 // September 9, 2017
started off the morning all fancy with a lunch tea time at @laduree #pinkiesup. it was such an instagram-worthy spot and so fancy. my girl @fashionablyfitjess was my PIC that day and we spent much of it waiting in lines... bah. after tea time we headed to the @rebeccaminkoff event to find a massive line.. i think we waited in it for a good 45 mins before having to leave for the @bananarepublic public presentation at the flatiron location. as we were dropped off by the taxi, PETA protesters took the stage and it was a big mess. again, jess and i waited in line to see @oliviapalermo but unfortunately, and yet again, the line was so long that by the time we got close-ish to the front, Olivia had already left. WHOMP WHOMP. jess and i decided to drown our sorrows in... @eatlyflatiron!! haha, nothing like good italian food! i walked jess to @grandcentralstation (my first time being there) where she left me to go solo for the rest of the trip. haha, still love you jess!

the evening ended up on a better note; thank goodness.  #sodonewithlines. i checked out the @lulus party which was such a huge hit!! they gifted some outfits which were super cute, nibbled on some amazing food and drinks before heading to the @rewardstyle rooftop party. i was really looking forward to this one because a lot of my instagram friends were going and FINALLY I GOT TO MEET THEM IN REAL LIFE! there was a ton of shrieking (which is so not me), lots of hugging and picture taking. it felt amazing to see the personalities come to life. just to finally meet in real life after following & supporting each other for such a long time!! my girls: @pinterestingplans // @interiordesignerella // @courtneerodgers // @toreystreasures // @laminlouboutins // @lifelutzurious 

oh... and i met my blogger idol, @wendyslookbook who has always been an inspiration to me from WAYYY back in the day before i even started this site! 

day 3 // September 10, 2017
my friend @stylebeacon had a plus one to a show and of course, i said YES! that morning we hit up @ninatiarinyc and it was a small show but MY FIRST real NEW YORK FASHION SHOW, so thank you michelle! nina has some very pretty designs and i loved all the pattern play. michelle, being the busy boss babe she is had a booked day of shows, i split up with her and finally did some exploring walking all down 5th avenue. i must have walked ... maybe 50 blocks?! haha, i got my bubble tea and dumplings fill. michelle and i finished the night with some sushi & sake!

by the way, what's so cool about being up there during fashion week was running into other TEXAS BLOGGER friends such as @daniaustin // @dressupbuttercup !! 

day 4 & 5 in part 3 coming soon. xx

doing what i do best -- laughing at myself. :D

bad iphone photos of nyfw day 2 & 3 in squares or selfiesquares.. ?! 

teatime @laduree with @fashionablyfitjess // @lulus party // Austin blogger @jesskatt123
fan girling over @wendyslookbook // @courtneerodgers @pinterestingplans @stylebeacon // always so fab @laminlouboutins
@pepperedinstyle @toreystreasures // mama-to-be @lifelutzurious // the mini skirt queen @interiordesignerella 

nyfw part 1 in maggy london

new york, new york. i miss thee.

writing this post has me missing NYC like crazy. there is no doubt NYC is one of my favorite places to travel to and i have to make it out there every couple of years. New York Fashion Week (NYFW) has always been a bucket list for me, even before i started blogging three years ago (yikes!!, time flies). 2017 was the year to make it happen! i booked the flight very early this year not really knowing what to expect or what i was doing. i just knew i needed to go do it! as a first-timer, it was an amazing experience that i'm so grateful for and hope to be back next fall! 

in general, i feel like NYFW is difficult to navigate regardless of your stats. it's overwhelming. on top of it being in a city that never sleeps, there is constant stimulation/hustle & bustle around every corner -- always something to do, see, or eat. therefore, i knew i was gonna be alright if i didn't get into many events! i really didn't have time to pitch or really plan NYFW due to the new house (which by the way... has sucked all my "free time!!" but i ain't complaining). i kinda winged it and everything happened last minute. outfits were packed the night before, and it occured to me that i really didn't have anything new to wear as all my purchases have gone towards #homeownership type-stuff. and to be honest, there's probably a good chance someone else is wearing it if it is semi-new. pro-tip: mix old with new (more on that in part 2; #comingsoon). 

either way, as the slogan goes, it all works out and thank goodness for this Maggy London dress!! the navy is very vibrant in a classy way & the lace just adds more elegance. basically, where the trendy cold shoulder meets elegance & hugs you in the right places. 

despite the fashion, outfits, and shows, the best part was getting to meet the gals i support on instagram. to finally put a face to a name (or is it handle?! haha) in REAL LIFE. that made my trip!

day 1 // September 8, 2017
this Maggy London dress was worn the day i arrived in NYC. took a taxi to the hotel. then hit the ground running with a photoshoot with the amazing Angie Garcia, whom i have always wanted to shoot with! let's just say these street-style shots totally pushed my comfort zone in terms of the amount of people, cars.. etc..! yikes... i headed to the @stylecollective party where i was able to meet the founder and my friend, @annie_spano! i joined Style Collective when i first started blogging and have made some awesome friends such as... @fashionablyfitjess who was my PIC that night and of course, we had to end the night with some ramen! 

now it appears that i am blabbing on and on so the rest of the trip will be shared in another post (part 2 and it'll probably be lengthy!!), it included parties, shows, meetings etc..! hope you have an amazing week & thanks for stopping by! stay tuned xx

currently on my playlist: swish swish by Katy Perry ft. Nikki Minaj

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dress c/o | Maggy London elizabeth cold shoulder midi in blue (wearing size 2 for reference) -- similar but in black (see it styled here)
shoes | Target Merona marcella low block heel ankle strap sandals in black with a gold heel (sold out) -- solid color heel and avail in three colors // same but with a higher heel // similar from Ann Taylor // similar with a lace up detail
bag | DVF lytton clutch in black quilted leather (old) -- similar 
earrings c/o | BaubleBar celestial drops in gold -- similar in ear jacket form
rings | Gorjana c/o shimmer stacking ring set // Gorjana amara ring set // Gorjana mini stackable ring set // Etsy stacking & midi rings // Gorjana candice CZ ring // BaubleBar ice chevron midi ring -- similar // BaubleBar tri bar ring (old) -- similar // Cassandra Collections c/o mini ring
watch | Michael Kors darci watch in gold

photo credit: Angie Garcia
a post done in collaboration with Maggy London. 
dress provided by Maggy London, all opinions are my own. 

day 1 PIC @fashionablyfitjess (ps -- she is hilarious and has the best captions FYI!) tall girl and short girl friendships are da best, esp when you try to take pics together. haha

(bad) iphone snaps in squares //

NYFW day 1

some of the Style Collective OGs gals that i love but apparently i didn't get the jumpsuit memo  @annie_spano, @dashin_darlin, @fashionablyfitjess // shootin' in the streets with the uber talented @angiegarciaphoto x2 // finally met this sweet gal! @tailoredandtrue