Holiday

Oh the Places you will go

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The past three months have been a whirlwind of excitement, change, adventure, and growth. I’ve been traveling non-stop with family and friends. I’ve had the chance to go to Florida, Vermont, New Hampshire, Vancouver, Rome, Paris, and New York. I have certainly caught the travel bug and can’t wait to explore more states, cities, and little nooks around Boston.

I started a new job at the end of January. It allowed me the opportunity to take on new challenges. After being there for a couple of months, I have to say, I’m much happier and more fulfilled than ever before. I was able to learn so much from my previous job that I have been able to apply and I’m thankful for having that opportunity. It’s always scary leaving the life you know, but it’s been satisfying to push my boundaries and build my professional skills.

I’m moving from my cute studio to a one bedroom. It’s the chance to redecorate (yay!) and try a new environment. It’s also forced me to do some serious spring cleaning and get rid of clothes, furniture, and books that I no longer need or use. I’m up to 20 Trader Joe’s shopping bags worth of stuff that I’m going to get rid of and I’m only half done! Help!

Overall, while I haven’t been as active on this blog as I would like, I’ve been taking advantage of opportunities to grow and expand my horizons. Now that things are starting to settle down, I’m excited to jump back into painting, writing, and blogging. I’ve miss you all and can’t wait to be back in the swing of things.

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New Years Preparation

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New Years is almost here! It’s the change to pop some bubbly and make resolutions for 2015. (Although, in my case they only last about a week.) One of my favorite ways to usher in the New Year is to go to a party to celebrate with some of my close friends or enjoy one of the big bashes at hotels, bars or resturants in Boston.

It’s a great excuse to buy a new dress and pick one that’s a bit trendier. One of my favorite parts of New Years Eve is looking back on old photos where I’m wearing a terrible trendy outfit that looks outdated by the next year. The height of fashion is frozen in that moment where you are wearing sequins, bows or giant shoulder pads! It’s fun to think you were the cat’s meow for the night.

If you are looking for a trendy outfit this year look no further than the leather trim trend. It’s hot, fun and sure to be one of the looks that memorializes this year. In 2014 leather patches, sleeves and jackets could be seen in every store. The fun number up top has a combination of flashy colors and leather patches. Perfectly trendy and guaranteed to be one of those dresses you love to look back on in a couple years and laugh.

Present Procrastination

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You are looking at one of the biggest present procrastinators. I always start “thinking” about shopping for others around Thanksgiving and usually make a good dent. Not only for the people on my list but also for myself!

Then after the initial push I become lulled into a false sense of successful preparation only to remember the final few days before Christmas that I still have several people on my list. This last minute shopping does pay off with generous discounts at many stores and I usually complete my list with a number of items.

Each year I vow to become better and each year I repeat the pattern. Coffee in hand I am still on my present mission. I hope others are better prepared this year than I am!

Formal with Flare

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When it’s time to dress for more formal occasions it can be hard to find a dress that strikes the balance of classic but still exciting. Especially if you’re not walking down the red carpet or you’re going to an event with your boss.

My favorite type of formal dresses leaves something to the imagination but maintains a touch of sexiness. One of the best ways to do this is to contrast the top and bottom of an outfit by either going tight on the top or bottom but leaving the other section loose.

The dress pictured above shows how effective it can be. The skirt hugs her curves and shows off her waist. The top of the dress has a graceful draping that hints at her shape and bares a bit of shoulder to add a touch of suggestiveness. It’s the type of dress that your boyfriend and your grandmother would think you look great in!

Green Jewel

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One of the top colors for the 2014 Fall/Winter season is this deep green. The beautiful jewel tone goes well with every complexion and is easy to accessorize. It’s a great choice for the holiday season because it’s a festive while still being fashionable. Most colors and traditional accessories work well with this from the deep gold tones to the lighter silver.This would be a great choice for a holiday work party or a family gathering.

Black Friday Frenzy

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One of my family traditions is to brave the Black Friday madness. I do admit, we are a bit mad to go with the masses, fighting our way for the perfect sweater or the giant TV. However I just love it!

I hope everyone who braved the shopping today had a good time and came home with minimal bruising!

 

 

Safe Travels and Happy Thanksgiving!

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I hope everyone has safe travels and a Happy Thanksgiving! I’m thankful for this holiday where you can take the time to appreciate family, friends and great food.

Wrap Me Up

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With the holidays approaching it’s time to start stocking up on festive outfits. The stores are full of dresses, skirts, fun tops in red and green with sequins and velvet galore! You can also get a good deal at stores having sales to attract customers for Black Friday. I’ve been checking out the department stores and little boutiques around Boston to pick out some great outfits and start getting ideas for presents. My tactic to get the best deals is to do a sweep, figure out what I want to buy and wait until the store has 40% off or more off everything. That way you can buy more presents and even something for yourself!