With a Bow Tie

One of my favorite spots in Philadelphia is the Piazza at Schmidt's. (Or if you wanna sound like a local, just "The Piazza.") It can get a little out of hand after dark on the weekends but it's perfect for people-watching and has some great food and drink options. I needed a reason to get dressed up so we took the doggies on a little date... and of course snapped some photos.

There are few things more exciting than one going against "type" and nothing more maddening than predictability... having said that, I'm going to say something very typical for a fashion blogger: I just love chambray. It feels great to wear, and can so easily be dressed up or down. You'll probably be seeing this dress a lot.

To be serious for a second, I've been a lot more accepting of my chubby belly, my pale legs, and the myriad of bruises and other imperfections covering my skin. Sometimes blogging makes this self-acceptance quite difficult. The pressure to be "perfect" is alive and well, with so many bloggers photoshopping themselves into oblivion. I have better things to do with my time. I like being okay with myself. It's a great feeling and I know it's just going to keep getting better.

xo, e.m.

dress, bow tie, bag, shoes (similar)

*photos by Danielle Conyers. Follow her on Instagram!