[16-May-2026 18:22:56 America/Boise] PHP Notice: Undefined property: stdClass::$options in /tmp/mbdvd0/sess_bc2071c1be6d1c313aeef168beb5ae06files on line 8 Outfits https://thecarolove.com Sun, 03 Nov 2024 03:15:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://i0.wp.com/thecarolove.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/cropped-ChatGPT-Image-Dec-23-2025-11_41_40-AM-1.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Outfits https://thecarolove.com 32 32 114531650 Cozy & Stylish: The Perfect Friendsgiving Vineyard Outfit for Fall https://thecarolove.com/friendsgiving-vineyard-outfit-fall-style-guide/ Sun, 03 Nov 2024 03:12:34 +0000 https://thecarolove.com/?p=9836 Planning a Friendsgiving at a vineyard is all about finding the perfect outfit that combines style, comfort, and a touch of warmth for those cool autumn vibes. My outfit for this special day—a vineyard trip with friends by party bus from DC—hits all the marks for the occasion. With a carefully chosen blend of classic pieces and trendy accessories, this look is both photo-ready and practical. Here’s a breakdown of each item, why it works for a vineyard Friendsgiving, and some tips to get your fall fashion on point.

Denim Shirt Dress||Oversized V Neck Knit Sweater Vest||Pattern Tights||Frye Veronica Booties||Oversized Leather Jacket||JW PEI Women’s Elise Top Handle Bag||Retro Trendy Aviator Sunglasses||Paris Corner Charuto Tobacco Vanille Eau De Parfum Men & Women Spray||Milani Gilded Mini Eyeshadow Palette with 6 Matte & Shimmer Hues – The Wine Down||e.l.f. Glow Reviver Lip Oil, Nourishing Tinted Lip Oil For A High-shine Finish, Infused With Jojoba Oil, Vegan & Cruelty-free, Jam Session||Velvet Scrunchies with Bow and Rubber Bands

1. Denim Shirt Dress: A Timeless, Comfortable Layer

The denim shirt dress is my go-to foundation for this look. It’s casual yet classic, offering a structured base that’s easy to style with other layers. A denim dress is the perfect choice for outdoor vineyard events: it’s comfortable, breathable, and adds a touch of rustic charm that complements the autumnal vineyard setting. The mid-thigh length allows for pairing with tights, boots, or layering with vests and jackets, making it a versatile staple for fall.

2. Oversized V-Neck Knit Sweater Vest: Cozy and On-Trend

An oversized V-neck knit sweater vest is one of fall’s most popular trends, and it brings an extra layer of warmth and texture to this Friendsgiving outfit. The vest adds cozy vibes and creates a chic layered look with the denim dress underneath. With its relaxed fit and classic knit texture, this sweater vest softens the denim’s structure, striking a balance between laid-back and polished. V-neck sweater vests are ideal for vineyard settings where the weather may fluctuate, letting you layer without feeling too bulky.

3. Pattern Tights: A Stylish Pop of Personality

Patterned tights are a simple yet effective way to add personality to an outfit. For this look, I chose a subtle pattern—like tiny polka dots or delicate florals—to give the outfit a unique edge without overwhelming it. Pattern tights not only add visual interest but also provide warmth, making them a great accessory for outdoor fall events. The patterns are a playful touch that pairs well with the classic denim dress and layered knit vest, perfect for a Friendsgiving spent sipping wine.

4. Frye Veronica Booties: Classic, Sturdy, and Comfortable

Frye Veronica Booties are the perfect footwear for a vineyard outing. These leather booties are not only comfortable for a day of walking but also bring a touch of rugged elegance to the outfit. Their slightly worn, vintage look fits right in with the rustic ambiance of a vineyard, while their durability makes them ideal for uneven paths or grassy areas. The slight heel provides height and shape without compromising comfort, which is essential when spending the day on your feet.

5. Oversized Leather Jacket: An Essential Fall Layer with Edge

An oversized leather jacket is a must for cool autumn days, especially when heading outdoors. The leather brings a bit of edge to the outfit, balancing the softness of the knit vest and denim. Its oversized fit keeps the look relaxed, while the rich leather material adds a polished, stylish vibe. Leather jackets are timeless, versatile, and easy to throw on or off as needed, making them perfect for a day at the vineyard.

6. JW PEI Women’s Elise Top Handle Bag: Compact, Chic, and Sustainable

When it comes to bags, the JW PEI Elise Top Handle Bag is both functional and stylish. Its compact size is ideal for vineyard trips, allowing just enough space for essentials without weighing you down. JW PEI is known for its eco-friendly, vegan materials, so this bag is a stylish choice that’s also sustainable. Its structured, top-handle design gives the outfit a polished feel and balances the relaxed vibe of the other pieces.

7. Retro Trendy Aviator Sunglasses: Stylish with a Vintage Touch

Retro aviator sunglasses are a stylish and practical addition to this outfit. Their oversized frames bring a touch of glam, and they’re the perfect accessory for a sunny vineyard day. Aviators are a timeless style that pairs well with the edgy leather jacket and casual denim dress, adding a bit of retro flair to the look.

8. Paris Corner Charuto Tobacco Vanille Eau De Parfum: A Signature Fall Fragrance

To complete the look, I chose Paris Corner Charuto Tobacco Vanille Eau De Parfum, a cozy, warm scent with notes of tobacco and vanilla. This fragrance is perfect for fall vineyard outings, with its spicy, rich aroma that complements the earthy vineyard surroundings. It’s a unisex scent, making it a bold yet sophisticated choice for a day with friends and wine.

9. Milani Gilded Mini Eyeshadow Palette – The Wine Down: Warm Hues for a Wine-Inspired Look

The Milani Gilded Mini Eyeshadow Palette in “The Wine Down” offers the perfect hues for a vineyard trip. With rich, warm tones like burgundy, plum, and shimmery gold, this palette brings out the fall spirit and complements the surrounding vineyard scenery. I used a blend of matte and shimmer shades to create a soft, wine-inspired eye look that adds a subtle glam touch without overpowering the outfit.

10. e.l.f. Glow Reviver Lip Oil in Jam Session: High-Shine, Nourishing Lip Color

No vineyard-ready look is complete without a touch of lip color, and e.l.f.’s Glow Reviver Lip Oil in “Jam Session” is my choice for this Friendsgiving. Infused with jojoba oil, it keeps lips hydrated and adds a high-shine finish that feels fresh and natural. The soft berry tint matches the autumnal color palette and complements the earthy tones of the outfit, adding just enough color to bring the look together.

11. Velvet Scrunchies with Bow: Practical and Pretty

Lastly, a velvet scrunchie with a bow is the ideal hair accessory for this outfit. Velvet adds a luxe feel, and the bow detail is festive and feminine, perfect for a Friendsgiving vibe. It’s functional, too, making it easy to tie up hair if it gets windy outdoors. A small but stylish addition, the scrunchie ties together the cozy, layered look.

Final Thoughts: The Perfect Friendsgiving Vineyard Outfit

From the denim shirt dress to the Frye booties and cozy sweater vest, this outfit strikes the perfect balance of comfort, style, and seasonal charm. The layered textures, earthy tones, and thoughtful accessories make it a well-rounded look for a Friendsgiving vineyard day. Whether you’re posing for photos with friends, savoring wine by the glass, or taking in the autumn views, each piece in this outfit plays a role in creating a look that’s both practical and picturesque.

Tips for Styling Your Own Friendsgiving Vineyard Outfit

  1. Layer Strategically: Choose pieces that layer easily, like a shirt dress under a vest and a jacket. This approach ensures comfort while letting each item add a unique element to the look.
  2. Opt for Sturdy, Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be walking around outdoors, so pick boots that offer both style and support. A leather boot like the Frye Veronica is perfect for vineyards.
  3. Add Small Statement Accessories: Sunglasses, a unique bag, or a signature scent can make the outfit feel complete without being overdone. Accessories with texture, like a velvet scrunchie, add a festive touch.
  4. Choose a Fall-Ready Makeup Palette: Use eyeshadow colors that complement fall scenery—warm hues like plum, burgundy, and gold create a polished look.

A Friendsgiving at a vineyard is the ultimate fall gathering, and the right outfit can make the experience even more memorable. With a blend of cozy layers, chic accessories, and practical pieces, you’ll be ready to enjoy a day of fun, fashion, and friends. Cheers to celebrating the season in style!




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]]> 9836 Plaid capes https://thecarolove.com/plaid-capes/ Mon, 30 Nov 2020 10:00:47 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=8477 It’s unseasonably warm and I don’t particularly mind. It’s giving me a chance to play with lighter fall layers. A couple of years ago, I was super into capes… or I guess ponchos, ruanas? I’m not sure what makes them different. But when my mom caught me looking at one at Scout & Molly’s, she reminded me that I have a bunch that I haven’t been wearing. (I actually have two in almost an identical plaid!) I decided to pull ’em out and show them some love.

I think the reason I wasn’t wearing them is that they’re a little awkward to wear with a purse unless it’s a smaller cross-body or a clutch. However, the plus side is that they’re super cozy and basically a socially acceptable way to stay snuggled up in a blanket. I found out this fall that they’re also a secret weapon when trying to rock a statement sleeve (like the puffs on this dress)  if it’s chilly enough to need a jacket.

While the particular style I was wearing on Saturday was actually a find from a now-closed AC Moore (who would have thought, right?), I rounded up a bunch below.

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]]> 8477 Just put those colors on, girl https://thecarolove.com/tory-sport-check-tech/ Thu, 22 Oct 2020 09:24:18 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=8404
I have a ridiculous habit of taking pictures of myself when I’m crying. For some reason it calms me down. I’ve done this since college.

I’m not shy about the fact that I went through a lot of therapy in the past year or so, nor do I think I should be shy about it. Therapy is great, I think everyone should go, and I’ve come out a stronger person with the tools I need to help me navigate some big life changes and life in general.

One big thing I’ve learned is that feelings and logic do not always exist on the same plane, and that you should always try to feel your feelings first and maybe understand them later. I used to think it was easier to pretend that the feelings weren’t there. I’ve learned that this is a form of self-neglect, so I allow myself to feel angry and sad, even if it’s not convenient. Even if I’m trying to run out the door in a fab Tory Burch set to meet my friends for a patio brunch at MercyMe.

I wholly appreciate that that people in my life not only put up with, but encourage me to feel my feelings. Before I left, I had a long talk with my mom about what was bothering me. Me from before would have held it in and stayed quietly sad and angry (so tempted to say “upset” but my therapist has also encouraged me to use specific language and “upset is for apple carts) all day rather than just letting it out. What it all boiled down to, for anyone feeling nosey, is that I’m entirely frustrated that my divorce isn’t final yet. That’s really all I can say, for now. And I’m entitled to those feelings. And YOU are entitled to your feelings.

I honestly have to say that the world has been brighter since I stopped trying to hide how I feel. I know it can be hard to face your feelings, but it feels so much better once you do! It’s not easier to run from them, because the running doesn’t really happen and the feelings are still there.

TORY SPORT CONTRAST RIBBED TURTLENECK ||TORY SPORT CHECK TECH KNIT SKIRT||Reebok Men’s Classic Leather Fashion Sneaker




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]]> 8404 My thoughts on Rent The Runway https://thecarolove.com/my-thoughts-on-rent-the-runway/ Tue, 06 Oct 2020 09:33:42 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=8367

Saylor Milo Puff Sleeve Dress||Dannijo Tortoise Amante Earrings||Coach Handbags Rexy By Guang Yu Signature Canvas Callie Foldover Chain Clutch

I’m sure by now you’ve seen the changes coming to Rent The Runway, specifically that Unlimited is being phased out. If not, here’s a breakdown, taken from their statement that came out late last month:

While we pioneered clothing rental and brought it to the mainstream, our members have turned it into a lifestyle and the movement it is today. And as even more women across the country join the rental revolution, we’ve been hearing directly that members want to pick a plan that’s right for their life right now.

The goal of our new membership structure is to provide customers with a flexible plan that can adapt seamlessly to their changing lifestyles, needs and budgets – with price points that reflect the number of styles received per month.

  • The 4 item plan ($89/mo, previously 1 Swap) will continue to offer basic closet access and one shipment a month — mostly casual, weekend and workwear styles with a retail value up to $350.
  • The 8 item plan ($135/mo, previously 2 Swaps) will continue to offer full closet access to all designers and two shipments a month — including eventwear and premium styles with a retail value up to $3,500.
  • The new 16 item plan ($199/mo) will also offer full closet access and four shipments a month.

This means we are phasing out the Unlimited Swap plan early next year, and will no longer accept new members into that plan as of next week. However, current and paused Unlimited Swap members can (and should!) enjoy their memberships through early 2021, at which point we will be in touch to help transition them into one of our new plans.

(I hate it.)

Listen, RTR  is a luxury I don’t really need, so once unlimited is gone, I’m just going to cancel my membership. For me, anything besides and unlimited membership doesn’t make sense.

Being short and ahem, curvy, trendier items miss the mark for me. However, with Unlimited, I can try them risk free and send them right back and swap for something I really love. The dress I wore this past weekend? I loved it for an afternoon but I wouldn’t want to purchase and own it.

With the way the new plans are working, I’d be paying more for less. Last year, I had a few holiday events and I rented a couple amazing dresses… after trying on maybe a dozen. Even with the most inclusive (and most expensive) plan, four shipments a month boxes me in as to when I can wear the items, instead of swapping at my leisure. I kept this amazing coat and leather jacket for most of the winter, while trying out clothes I wouldn’t normally and really having fun with it.

Until my unlimited Rent The Runway membership is officially phased out, I want to utilize it as much as I can! I’ll be linking my faves on my new blog page, RENT THE RUNWAY PICKS.

I’d love to know your thoughts! Do you have a membership? Are you keeping it? Are you more likely to sign up for one of the less expensive plans now? Let me know in the comments!




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]]> 8367 Grace looks good on you https://thecarolove.com/grace-looks-good-on-you/ Fri, 17 Jul 2020 09:18:59 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=8200 A year ago today, I left.

My little God-sister picked me and a couple of suitcases of clothes up from my apartment in Glover Park and I never looked back.

Grace Looks Good On You Tee||Colorful Beaded Hoop Earrings||Sunnies + necklace from Bijuju Market Commons||Purse c/o The Sis Kiss||Sidecar Denim Miniskirt||Cliff Sneaker

I am not here to talk about what happened or why I made that decision. Those close to me know. I am not here to encourage gossip or speculation, and I can assure you that the few people in my life who I found out turned my situation into conversation have been cut out of my life. I am here to say that a year out, I am at least trying to give myself grace for not hitting the milestones that I wish I had.

I know that I am incredibly blessed to have been able to move home with my parents. Especially during COVID lock down, it’s great to have that love and security, financially and otherwise. But they, and I, know that eventually I’ll be back on my own. In my head, July 17th 2020 would be my move-out date. I’d be back in DC, and for the first time ever, completely on my own. I’ve been coming up with design ideas, scouring Zillow, and dreaming of my perfect little place. But I have to be a resident of Maryland until everything is filed, and it’s been a lot harder than I thought to pay off debts acquired during my marriage, as well as expenses that popped up right when I moved out. I started therapy, had to buy a new car, and I’m paying for a storage unit.

Therapy has been absolutely invaluable. Luckily, my mom is helping me with this as well since the program I’m in it pretty intense and insurance doesn’t cover all of it. My boss has also been super supportive of my having to take time each week to have my visits (now calls) with my therapist. When I feel low about not being where I thought I’d be, and feeling like nothing has changed in the past year, I need to remember that  have grown leaps and bounds with the help of my therapist and encouragement from those I love the most. It’s HARD WORK but I’m worth the hard work. I keep showing up, for me, even when I’m tired and would rather not.

I notice things about myself now. I can feel the moment that anxiety comes in to chase away real feelings. I can feel myself “leaving”. I pay more attention and use precise language. I’m not “upset” I’m ANGRY. And I’m allowed to be angry. While it’s good to have gratitude, it’s important that we acknowledge that not everything is sunshine and rainbows.

So while no, I have not hit where I arbitrarily decided I would be today, July 17th, 2020, I’m going to give myself grace, because I have come leaps and bounds from the sad, scared, girl I was a year ago.

photo by Sarah

 




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]]> 8200 Where am I going? https://thecarolove.com/where-am-i-going/ Tue, 21 Apr 2020 09:25:59 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=8102 Last weekend, I had a moment where I laughed until I cried. You may have seen it on my Instagram stories…

I was in my closet organizing my ridiculous shoe collection when I stumbled across this pair of Volatile platform Maryjanes I got in high school. I can’t seem to get rid of them, although I’ve only worn them a handful of times with no intention to ever wear them again. I made a Snapchat video saying “WHERE AM I GOING IN THESE?!” and went to upload it to Instagram. While it was uploading, it was playing on a loop over my Bluetooth speakers.

WELP. My mom came rushing into my room because she thought her daughter had locked herself in her closet screaming, “WHERE AM I GOING?” over and over. She thought I had snapped. I stood there calmly explaining what had happened… and the video continued playing on a loop. We couldn’t breathe because we were laughing so hard. It felt good to laugh.

WHERE AM I GOING

It’s a question I ask myself when I try a new trend that’s out of the box for me… or anyone else. It’s also what I’ve been asking myself when I get dressed/dolled up to go  anywhere/nowhere right now. I ordered a pair of jeans that I thought would be fun to try and put them on with while heeled combat boots that I snagged for $20 during a crazy DSW sale. I loved how they looked together so I went to show my mom. “This is what I’m wearing the first time I can go to Mission and split a pitcher of margs with Sarah.”

I went upstairs to change… but stopped myself. Why should I? I love this outfit. It makes me feel good. It’s also comfortable. I may not be going anywhere right now, but what’s the point of saving this outfit and not wearing it for who knows long?

Use this time to try the trend. If you love it, rock it once it’s safe to go places! If you don’t, #thankunext it back from whence it came. No harm no foul.

Bell Bottom Pants High Waist||ARCHIE PLATFORM COMBAT BOOT||Heart Oversized Rimless Sunglasses
Free People Tops:




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]]> 8102 Loom & Field https://thecarolove.com/loom-and-field-pom-pom-beach-bag-pom-pom-basket-straw-bag-nursery-basket-woven-straw-basket-french-market-basket-toy-storage-seagrass-basket/ Wed, 26 Feb 2020 10:59:21 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=7969 Weren’t we graced with some gorgeous weather in DC this past weekend?

It was absolutely perfect to make a trip to Georgetown to celebrate Cierra’s birthday at El Centro. Their bottomless brunch is delicious (and boozy-bottomless margs?!) but I love having a reason to celebrate with my ladies, no matter what the occasion or location.

I’d been waiting for some sunny weather to bust out my cute Pom Pom Basket c/o Loom & Field. You’ve seen them on my blog before, when I featured their rug on my color-blocking post. I always let shops know when I’ve featured their product, in case they want to share with their customers. Claudia and Brooke were kind enough to send me something from their shop as a thank you. I’d been looking for a pom bag for ages, and this one is a great size to use as a fun weekend bag or to take to the pool or beach. It worked out well that they picked on with pink and grey so I could wear it with one of my favourite dresses! I think for the spring I might try this look with booties, like these women’s boots.

I wanted to specifically feature Loom & Field because they source their selection so thoughtfully:

Designed by Loom & Field in Paris, our collection is handcrafted in partnership with a cooperative of weavers in Morocco and Mexico. We are committed to working closely with artisans to create a modern collection that preserves and celebrates traditional techniques used for centuries. Loom & Field also curates a selection of vintage pieces, sourced during our travels in Morocco, Turkey, and beyond.

Snake-Print A-Line Dress||Pom Pom Beach Bag||Similar boots



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]]> 7969 Lord + Taylor holiday glam https://thecarolove.com/lord-taylor-holiday-glam/ Mon, 02 Dec 2019 10:10:34 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=7659 I was monetarily compensated for my work with Lord & Taylor. Additionally, if I will make a small commission if you click on/make a purchase from the links below. Thank you for supporting the brands who support me!

 

It’s always awesome getting to work with brands, but it’s super MEGA awesome to work with a store that has been a staple in my life since I can remember. My style may has evolved over the years, but Lord & Taylor has seen me through Easter dresses as a little kid, an EPIC collection of Ralph Lauren polo shirts from the little boys’ section in high school, and into some of my favorite gowns and work wear in a adulthood.

I got the opportunity to play around with some fun fashion looks for the holidays, and this coming Saturday I’ll be at Lord & Taylor in Chevy Chase to talk about some of my favorite beauty looks for the upcoming season! There will be a breakfast, then presentation, then an opportunity for YOU to talk to the beauty experts at Lord & Taylor about skincare and makeup. I hope to see you there! In the meantime, check out some of my favorite looks! (It looks like some of the pieces are sold out, so I’ll link what I can!)


Vero Moda Faux Leather Zip-Front Jacket||Betsey Johnson Goldtone & Crystal Leopard Heart Frontal Necklace||Betsey JohnsonGoldtone & Crystal Leopard Heart Drop Earrings||1.STATE Solid V-Neck Camisole||MICHAEL Michael Kors Georgie Leather Wedge Sneakers




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]]> 7659 Whiskey in a teacup https://thecarolove.com/whiskey-in-a-teacup/ Tue, 14 May 2019 09:00:47 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=7238 I have never really been a whiskey girl, unless you count all the Fireball I consumed for a brief period after college. I actually can never remember the difference between whiskey and bourbon- which is apparently that bourbon is a type of whiskey. The first time I ever actually enjoyed a whiskey drink was at our wedding. Kendall’s signature drink was a KENtucky mule (a Kentucky mule with a mimosa twist, subbing bourbon for vodka in the linked recipe). It was super yummy and I found myself sipping from his throughout the night.

The second time I genuinely found myself enjoying a whiskey drink was a couple Saturdays ago at a Derby cocktail hour at The Hour in Old Town Alexandria, celebrating Old Town Cocktail Week (and Derby Day, of course). Jon from The People’s Drug was whipping up Derby-perfect cocktails in sippin’ sizes so that you could try a few guilt free. By far, my favorite was the Whiskey Smash.

Like Mint Juleps? You’ll love the Whiskey Smash, a citrusy 19th-century cooler. Legendary bartender Dale DeGroff at the Rainbow Room in New York modified the classic recipe by adding muddled lemon wedges. DeGroff calls the citrus-and-mint combination the perfect cocktail for those who say they’ll never drink whiskey.

What exactly is in a whiskey smash? I know cocktails differ from place to place, but I found an easy-to-follow recipe on Liquor.com. Might I suggest picking up a local whiskey instead?

It was a fun way to spend a grey morning- big hats, fashionable friends, surrounded by The Hour’s gorgeous glass wear. If you’re in the DC area and haven’t ventured to Old Town, you should! Even growing up in Maryland, my family made frequent trips across the Potomac for special occasions and to try new restaurants (and shopping).

My outfit: Garden Crossover Back Flutter Dress||Rainbow shoulder bag||Floppy Sun Hat||Similar pearl collar necklace||women’s dresses



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]]> 7238 Great expectations https://thecarolove.com/pink-fur-coat-and-red-velvet-dress/ Mon, 24 Dec 2018 16:03:18 +0000 http://thecarolove.com/?p=6589 This is super embarrassing, but I need to make an apology. I use several affiliate programs to help monetise my blog. One in particular helps link keywords to related products on the web. I often check my stats to see what people have read or clicked on, and I discovered that somehow a link on this page was created to go to an adult film on Amazon. I am incredibly sorry and have contacted the affiliate network to figure out how to prevent that in the future. In the meantime, I have that feature turned off and all the links on my blog were created BY ME and will only go to products that I endorse and believe in.

Merry Christmas Eve!

This post was supposed to go live last week, for my office holiday party. But you know what? The last couple of weeks at work were kind of brutal with some final project bills, Kendall’s dad got sick, then I got sick (that last one was my own fault but still…). My work holiday party fell in there which meant our sister office in Canada came down so we had a full house. And one of my bankers left to transfer to London and I had to get her squared away.

A lot was going on and I swore after a crazy October and November that I would be kind to myself. The world was not going to end because I wasn’t posting 5 times a week.

This time of year comes with a lot of expectation. There’s so much to do and so much to see and so many events. We put these pressures on ourselves to do it all, whether or not we really want to. We sometimes forget to slow down and just enjoy the moments that really matter. I  learned this lesson in a very tangible way this past weekend.

I am OBSESSED with Zoo Lights. I go every year at least once. This year, because of Kendall’s schedule and mine, we put it off until the Saturday before Christmas, but I still insisted on going. I didn’t really think too much of it because I’d always gone on a weeknight and later at night. Going the Saturday before Christmas at 6pm? NOT BRILLIANT. It was kind of crowded and miserable and never again. Middle of the week, late at night again next year or bust.

But after Kendall and I weaved and dodged our way out of the zoo, we decided to walk through one of the neighborhoods to catch an Uber more easily. We ended up walking much further than we intended, looking at homes decorated for the season and decided which houses we’d like to live in and how we’ll decorate our future homes. That was the best part of the night- our time alone, talking about the future in a dreamy, hopefully not-too-far-off way.

While we totally plan to go back to Zoo Lights next year on an off night, I think I just realized that the things we “have” to do are just not that important. This time of year, we should be focusing on the sweet little moments with our friends and family.

Today, Kendall and I will be heading to my parents’ for Christmas Eve dinner and the late Christmas Eve Mass at St. John’s Olney. We’ll have Christmas Day out there and do sushi and maybe a movie tomorrow night.
I’m just so incredibly happy going into 2019. I wish the same for all of you- may your days be merry & bright, and may you absolutely kill it in the new year.

photos by Catherine

Outfit details:

Necklace: Helen’s Collection||Coat: Forever 21||Turtleneck: Nordstrom||Dress: The Limited||Shoes: Steve Madden




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