I’ve been called “extra” many times before I even realized or maybe accepted that I was. So when Intermix asked me to choose a look for the holiday season, I selected this multilayered bright red two piece work of art by AMUR. When asked where or what occasion I’d wear it to, I answered: The real question is where could I NOT wear this look? I would wear this to eat dinner with my husband for his birthday. Or I would call some friends and tell them that we’re going out for fancy cocktails and dinner, and yes, I would arrive in this ensemble. I’d even wear this to take myself to the ballet and book a table for ONE at one of my favorite French restaurants in New York. But, since we’re talking about the holiday season, I’d wear this to dinner for NYE too.

Sometimes, you're sitting down with your family to have dinner, and you make eye contact with a random woman. She smiles at you, and you smile back. Then she comes closer and keeps smiling without saying a word. So you look at your baby, your mom, take a quick look around for your husband who went to look for another table because someone was smoking near you. Because you were sitting outside, and it's Texas. And your eyes go back to the woman who somehow got even closer with her frozen smile and empty eyes. So finally you say, "hello." Then she squats down beside you, puts her hand on your shoulder, and says, "I just want to say that WE LOVE YOU HERE." 

What would you say if I told you everything I'm wearing in this look with the exception of my jewelry and socks were second-hand purchases? I've always been into thrift and consignment shopping. That's why I think I've been able to add character to my overall personal style. I'd often mix those pieces with basics I'd get from Uniqlo, American Apparel, or trendier pieces from Zara and other affordable brands. For the past few years, (and it might be because I've hit my thirties) I've been shopping less at stores known for making fast fashion, and I've been focusing on building a nice collection of classic and quality wardrobe.

Since we moved to Austin, my husband and I have been in full on explore mode. The 100-degree weather is not too helpful, but that doesn't deter us from our usual date nights. I've been filling my closet with easy linen tops and pants, and simple dresses that don't cling to the body. I partnered with Ann Taylor to put together this fun date-night outfit, and opted for this super versatile lace Halter mini dress. It's the perfect little dress to take on summer vacations, wear to brunch, picnics, and other fun summer activities.

I'm doing a massive clean up in my closet. I'm getting rid of everything that causes me the slightest amount of discomfort. Things I held on to to remind me of my size 2 days. Things I used to piece together with safety pins and pretended they were all that. Lots of thrifted polyester things. I want to live the easy, breezy life.

As I get older, I'm falling more and more into myself. I seriously couldn't care less about trends, and you know that. But there are a few I'm seriously LOVING right now. I love mules and I cannot lie. I love mules, slides, block-heeled shoes, high waisted, wide legged denim, and fun statement bags.

I find myself shopping less at stores like Zara and H&M. I thrift more, but I no longer just go for things just being they're three dollars. I shop for quality now. I shop to pass things down to my future daughters. I shop for things that make my life easier and more meaningful. I look for color, but I don't just settle on any color. And now I buy lots of basics too just to play with statement accessories.

Summer just snuck up on me. It grabbed me by the shoulders, spun me around a few times, and said, "Darling! Whether you're ready or not... I'm here!" It's delightful to shed all the layers and feel the warm sun on my skin. Everything has been a big blur these past few months in my little world. With my big move (we'll get into that later), traveling, and work, it has been really hard to keep track of time, and to really enjoy the sun.  I found myself spending late nights in the office, living out of two suitcases, jumping from Airbnb to hotels in between cities and projects. I'm not going to lie, it has been tough for your girl. But the challenge has been accepted. We just have to breathe and believe, right?

I was introduced to Matter Prints last month and immediately fell in love with their designs, prints, and overall message. It wasn't easy choosing a pair because there are so many great options, but the Side Lunghi pulled at my heartstrings and just wouldn't let them go. I love the white print on navy blue - it's noticeable but subtle enough to allow room for creativity and versatility. The design of the pants also suits women of any age or size. And it's a great substitute for your favorite pair of jeans. They're comfortable, funky, chic, and were made for mixing with other prints. 

No matter how hard I try,  the cold, drab winter months always eventually get to me. The days are dark and short, and the cold makes everything moody. Every now and then, in order to lift the mood, I pull out the brightest things I can find in my closet to layer against the cold. For this look, I didn't have to look too hard. The bright yellow pumps I recently added to the collection were staring right at me with a cheesy smile. And so, I gave them one of my equally cheesy smirks then winked at them. (If you know me, you know that I'm a terrible winker, and it was more like a double blink with a slight twitch from both eyes.) The first thought was to wear them with a denim on denim look. Simple, chic, and fun. But I thought I wanted a challenge that would be more appropriate. I decided to mix different prints while still keeping things fun and light.