My All-White Outfit Picks

All white! So, not that these rules exist anymore, but in the "olden days", Memorial Day weekend was the start of summer. That meant — finally — a chance to wear all that white linen! Memorial Day through Labor Day were the glory days of those white pumps that are typically reserved for the back of your shoe closet. Of course, the fashion rulebook has been edited to include winter whites and wear-whenever-you-want whites.

But I'm still excited about this hue white now. Here's my Memorial Day mood board!

1. This gorgeous Urban Outfitters dress. And a bonus pick: this dress that's not white, but might be even better. 

2. Ok, so this bag isn't technically all white, but remember what I said about the rules? Forget 'em! Plus it's 40% off right now, so you really can't lose.

3. I can't get enough culottes right now. Here's another cute non-white pair!

4. Can't go wrong with some white sneaks, and I love the subtle design on this pair. I'm also into these green ones and Nike's new crop tops, because I guess I'm Sporty Spice now?

Hope your Memorial Day weekend is unforgettable! xo

Read More

Queen City Gems, Vol. 7

Hi, friends! You may remember I've started a little series on here called "Queen City Gems", basically, where I brag about my city and the folks who live here. Feeling really lucky today to be surrounded by so many inspiring people and ideas; here are a few I'm particularly excited about.

1. SGFCO Launches Instagram, Website and Product Line

There's nothing better than seeing your friends dream up a concept, put in the hours, and watch it come to fruition. There are a lot of reasons I've chosen to stay in Springfield and put down roots here, and a huge one for me is having a likeminded community. SGFCO's initial product launch features a shirt that says "This place is as good as any", and their message that SGF is "perfectly satisfactory" is communicated through stellar design that pays homage to features of the 417. Stay tuned for more to come, and for now, check out their Instagram and website.

Photo courtesy of SGFCO

Photo courtesy of SGFCO

2. Erin O'Sullivan's Final Showing of "Piece by Piece"

Erin O'Sullivan is a sweet friend, pictured in the first photo reppin' the SGF CO tee, and finishing up her BFA work at MSU. I had the opportunity to see her installation, "Piece by Piece", at her first showing, and she will be doing the final showing tonight. Her work explores themes of loss and recovery — how we pick up the pieces and move on without our loved ones in physical form. The installation itself is beautiful and serene; you will feel things, and you should go.

Missouri State, Brick City 3 | Second Floor, Room 235 | Installation open from 7:30-9

Photography courtesy of Erin O'Sullivan

3. "How Seriously You Take Yourself" is Perfect for Your Summer Playlist

While the duo's name is Ski Lift, their new EP, "How Seriously You Take Yourself" is made for all the rooftop gatherings you'll be attending this season. Ski Lift is made of Abby Webster and Trey George; together, they've made something that's both soothing to the ears and soul — take a listen to those lyrics.

P.S. Last thing, but there's a SSLYBY show at the Outland tonight, and what's more Springfield than that?!

Read More

Taking Baby Steps Toward Bigger Goals

The road to achieving our goals isn't always as direct as it seems. Ain't that the truth! My hometown has a lot of hidden gems (see proof here), and one of those is The Bravery Board. A few of my friends started The Bravery Board to promote mental health to creatives and others who desire growth, and maaaaan, do they do a good job with it!

I've been to most of The Bravery Board's events, which they host quarterly in my hometown of Springfield, MO. Each time I leave the sessions feeling awake and inspired — likely thanks to the fuel of Eurasia Coffee, where The Bravery Board meets. The gals who run The Bravery Board have wonderfully curated speakers and topics; sometimes based off of felt needs, other times they bring ideas to the table and ask you to consider them in a fresh way.

Recently, I had the opportunity to talk with my friend, Michelle, for The Bravery Board's most recent podcast. It was an engaging conversation on the topic of taking baby steps toward bigger goals — which I highly recommend everybody do! If you're in need of some encouragement to "do the thing", here's some of my most candid advice on the topic.

I certainly can't say I've achieved all of my goals at this point, but I'm thankful for the windy road I'm on as I'm making my way through somewhat of a "DIY" career. You can take a listen to my conversation with Michelle either on SoundCloud or iTunes. xo!

P.S. Here's details to this outfit: Similar Top, Wide Legged Jeans (on sale for $9 😱)!, Shoes (I got these in Hawaii last year, and now I will never not wear them), Similar Sunnies

Read More