Perfect Denim Jumper

If you read here often, you know this past year has been a bit of a struggle. I've gotten pretty good at coping and have made a bit of a "safe haven" in this "survival mode" way of doing life. While I will continue to work towards a better and more stable existence, I'm learning that true happiness is finding contentment in adversity. I've been working hard to appreciate the little things in life. Workaholics on Hulu, Ben & Jerry's Vegan Cherry Garcia, bike rides with Brenden, puppy cuddles with Charlie, driving with the windows down, and my coffee shop playlists are a few such things that are keeping me going. Not to get too corny or sentimental, but this blog is another one of those things. It challenges me and helps me grow as a sartorial enthusiast but also just as a person. I love experimenting with looks but also returning to some tried and true: floral, denim, and a hat. This is a classic "E.M." look-- An homage to a younger me and an inspiration to an older me.

Lace & Knit

An unexpected pairing of two of my favorite things: lace and cozy knits.

Those Parisian Vibes

White blouse. Black trousers. Brown boots. This is my attempt at being effortlessly chic as a only a Parisienne can naturally do. I had to try pretty hard but this sort of timelessness and classy minimalism will eventually become instinctual, right?

All About Swimsuits

If only for the briefest of moments, let's pretend that swimsuit shopping isn't an activity created by satan himself. (Because, let's be honest, it kind of is.) I don't think I've ever walked into a store to try on a swimsuit and left without crying at least once. That's why I just buy my swimsuits online now. Don't like it? OH WELL, I gotta either deal with it (because I inevitably end up liking it later anyway) or brave the post office (of which I am terrified for absolutely no reason at all.) Having said that, here are a few of my favorites. 

Tenue Décontractée

One of the reasons I love fashion is because it's constantly evolving-- including my own personal style. Lately, I've been trying to figure out how to make my casual wear a little more interesting. For an outfit like this, I'd typically wear some flats or maybe even my Chucks. For that extra je ne sais quoi, I paired this simple denim skirt, tee, and sweater with my current favorite booties. Très chic, no?

Shorts?

One of the reasons I don't like summer is because I've always been incredibly self-conscious about my legs. Even in various stages of weight loss and gain, different levels of tan, and despite waxing and waning muscular tone, I've just never liked them. They're aways covered in cuts and bruises and they're kinda stumpy. I think it's okay to be a bit insecure but since this year is all about overcoming my self-esteem issues, I bought this skort and just let it happen. I probably won't be wearing it in the future but it was fun to be brave for a few hours. 

Daytime Glitter

Who doesn't love some glitter every now and then? While it can certainly be a bit easy to overdo, it's often my go-to for a night out. What about for daytime though? I gave it a try and I gotta say, I'm going to do afternoon glitter more often. 

Black Stripes & Denim

Sundays are my absolute favorite. We've definitely talked about this before but I feel the need to reiterate just how much I love the first (or last, depending on where you're from) day of the week. It's the one day I give myself to take it easy. I only make plans if I absolutely must. It almost always includes coffee, people watching, and window-shopping.

This particular Sunday was especially lovely. As we were wandering about town, we stumbled upon this little slice of nature. Alright, so it's barely "nature." It's just a small green space between a gigantic shopping center and a quaint-but-busy street. Nonetheless, it was perfect for prancing in an ankle-length denim skirt, which is just what I did. (Watch out Fräulein Maria, there's a new carefree bitch in town.)