Wardrobe Roundup: January 15-19, 2017

From the start my blog was dedicated to combing my love for vintage fashion with a touch of modern flair. Since then, it has evolved to sharing my travel experiences, entertaining ideas, and home decor. I realize I've neglected the "fashion" part of my blog for some time now, so I've decided to start a "Wardrobe Roundup" series dedicated to giving you a "daily dose of teacher style." Enjoy!

Sunday, January 15th- Top: Banana Republic
Pants: The Limited
Shoes: Kate Spade
Frames: Super

Monday, January 16th-Top (dotted): J. Crew, Sweatshirt: H&M
Pants: Anthropologie
Boots: Cliff
Necklace: Anthropologie
Frames: Maryll Eyewear (France)

Tuesday, January 17th-Dress: COS
Boots: Lucky Brand
Bracelet: J. Crew

Wednesday, January 18th- Sweater: Massimo Dutti
Pants: Zara
Scarf: Zara

Thursday, January 19th ("Casual Day")- Top: Zara
Blazer: Zara
Jeans: American Eagle
Shoes: Nike

Kicking Off The New Year...

2016 was one hell of a year, and not in a good way. For reasons both personal and professional, it was one of my most trying years ever. But here we are, nearly two weeks into 2017 and I'm. Still. Here.

I didn't make any New Year's resolutions. I can't remember the last time I did that. Instead, I'm going to try (my best) to continue a resolution I made to myself in November of last year; I will try to start my day with a positive thought and end my night by doing the same. It has worked WONDERS for my spirit and for my peace of mind.

This new year started with a small get together for one of my "girlfriends groups" (I have about three of them, and yes, they all have names.). I had a chance to break out my new cheeseboard (which I'm ridiculously excited to use, almost embarrassingly so...). We kept it low-key with snacks, desserts, and games at my place. I always enjoy getting together with my girls, they've become my "family" here in Kuwait and I appreciate having them in my life. Good friends, good food, good times.

Today's lesson: Tell your friends you love and appreciate them often. 

Late Post! (Holiday Edition)

Since living abroad, I'm never "home" during the holidays. And by home, I mean my second home in Kuwait. I usually travel for about two weeks and have never felt the need to decorate my apartment for the holidays (after all, I could always use that money for shopping while I'm traveling!).

This year, I was feeling a bit homesick so I got into the holiday spirit by decorating. It reminded me of all the years spent getting the tree "just right" with my mom (which meant hours of placing the bows in just the right places and setting out her dozens of angels). I didn't go overboard with the decorations, but I wanted to host a small get together for a few of my girlfriends which meant I simply HAD to decorate.

I went with a pretty neutral theme...small hints of gold and natural elements like pine cones, wood, and of course, lots of candles. Maybe next year I'll go all out and actually buy a tree!

Today's lesson: If you can't be with family for the holidays, practice some of your family traditions (like decorating, or baking holiday cookies). Feels just like "home." 

Tabletop, with my favorite (inexpensive) candle.

Simple centerpiece for my dining room table.

Small touches of gold and pine cones in the living room.

Presents by the entryway. (Empty wrapped boxes are a great decorating idea, and they're inexpensive!)

Garland (2) from West Elm. I added a few ornaments at the top instead of a traditional bow. 

Wreath details. 

Kept it simple with just a few ornamental details on the wreath. 

Garland above the kitchen cabinets. 

Gifts for my girlfriends. Mugs from Williams Sonoma with their traditional peppermint bark inside. 

Mini cheesecakes and Sprinkles red velvet cupcakes.

Holiday cookies and fudge from Dean & DeLuca.