May's Work Wear Remix

I would like to introduce you to my sassy pants.

I purchased them while I was in Belgium last summer.  These wide-leg, printed pants were popping-up in all of the European stores I visited, so I predicted that we just might be seeing them on this side of the Atlantic this spring.  And I was right!

If you haven't jumped on board with this trend, do it now!  These pants are even comfier than pajamas!  Plus I feel extra sassy when I have them on.

The striped print of this particular pair can be styled in so many different ways, so I've been excited to feature these pants in my second, monthly Work Wear Remix.  If you missed last month, I decided that I need to be more inspired when it comes to the clothing I wear to work.  So I enlisted the help of my favorite professional dresser (and friend), Carrie, to work on monthly, business-casual inspiration!

For my professional look, I decided to play with patterns and combine stripes with polka dots.  A pair of sleek flats complete the look.

For my casual look, I swapped the flats for a pair of sneakers and grabbed a simple, sleeveless top.  A denim jacket would be perfect with this outfit if you need another layer!

So tell me, have you been wearing wide-leg pants this spring?  And don't worry, even though I found these pants in Belgium last summer, I found a bunch of cute, similar pairs at Target and Loft.  I've linked two of them below.

What I'm Wearing: Work Look
Blouse: Express (exact)
Pants: Zara (similar, similar)
Flats: Target (similar, similar)

What I'm Wearing: Casual Look
Tank: Anthropologie (similar, similar)
Pants: Zara (similar, similar)
Sneakers: Keds (exact)
Save

Thirty-Two

Today is my thirty-second birthday and I'm celebrating in the best possible way!  I've spent the weekend running my first 10k, eating delicious food and sampling countless types of wine, beer and cider in Traverse City, Michigan.  If that doesn't sound delightful enough, I get to do all of this with three of my favorite people-- my mom, dad and boyfriend!

This birthday is an interesting one as I'm wrapping-up my teaching career, something that I've worked hard at for the last ten years.  I don't yet know which path my career will take from here but I'm feeling faithful that the right job is on the horizon...and I'm excited to find-out what it is!

Despite my career uncertainty, I am in a really good life place right now!  As always, I have the best friends and family.  My boyfriend and I continue to build a home together (with our two cats).  I'm excited to be an official resident of Grand Rapids.  And I'm feeling happy and healthy!  Now that's something to celebrate!

What I'm Wearing:
Dress: Gal Meets Glam (exact)
Wedges: Macy's (exact)
Tote: Anthropologie (exact)

J'adore 5.25.18

Welcome to J'adore, my weekly space for sharing what makes me happy lately!

1.  Force of Nature by Jane Harper.  I mentioned this book in last week's J'adore as I had just started reading it.  Friends, I finished it in about twenty-four hours.  It was so good!  Force of Nature takes place in Australia and follows the work of Detective Aaron Falk.  In this particular mystery, Falk learns that an informant in his current investigation has been reported missing during a corporate hiking retreat.  He must piece together the life of the missing woman as well as the pasts of the others on the retreat in order to solve the mystery.  If you haven't yet read the first of Harper's novels about Detective Aaron Falk, I suggest starting with The Dry, one of my favorite books of 2017.

2.  Urban Decay Original Eyeshadow Primer Potion.  A few weeks ago, I reached-out on Instagram for eye make-up primer recommendations.  Of the products you talked about, this primer was mentioned the most!  I started using it this week and it's amazing!  Just like that, my make-up is staying right where I put it all.day.long.

3.  Esch Road Foods Salsa.  I eat salsa like it's going out of style and I love trying new kinds.  I recently found this brand at my local grocery store and the Medium Chipotle Bean and Corn Salsa is one of the best I've had in awhile!  It's also made in Michigan!  But don't fret, you can order it online and I promise you won't regret paying for shipping!

My Top 10 Running Songs

You guys, my big race is this weekend!  I'll be running my first (and hopefully not last) 10k!  In honor of ten kilometers, here are my ten favorite songs that keep me feet moving along that pavement.

1.  No- Meghan Trainor
2.  Mi Gente- J Balvin and Willy William
3.  Worth It- Fifth Harmony
4.  Lose Yourself- Eminem
5.  Believer- Imagine Dragons
6.  That's What I Like- Bruno Mars
7.  Shake Señora- Pitbull
8.  Cheerleader- Omi
9.  Work B**ch- Britney Spears
10.  Thunderstruck- AC/DC

What are your favorite "pump-up" songs?  Leave me your recommendations in the comments section so I can add them to my list!
Save

J'adore 5.18.18

Welcome to J'adore, my weekly space for sharing what makes me happy lately!

1.  Birthday Coupons.  I don't know about you, but I always plan to spend a little extra money on fun stuff during my birthday month because of all the birthday coupons flooding my inbox!  Here are three of my favorites (so if you aren't on their mailing list, I suggest signing-up)!

• Anthropologie: I can't typically afford pieces from Anthro so I really look forward to that 15% off birthday coupon.  Each May, I allow myself a leisurely trip to an actual, physical store (you gotta smell those Anthro candles) and pick-out whatever my heart desires.  This year I came home with this top and this purse.
• Madewell: I don't actually recall using a Madewell birthday coupon in the past, but friends, this one was the real MVP of the lot.  $25 off, no minimum purchase (yes, that's dollars, not percent).  I got this gingham dress for a whopping $18!
• Sephora: I love the Sephora gift because you don't actually have to spend any money, you just get a birthday gift!  This year, you can choose from a lip color set from Bite Beauty or skin care products from Glam Glow.  I went with Glam Glow!
• Other notable birthday coupon mentions: Loft ($15 off), DSW ($5 off but can be combined with other deals), Starbucks (free drink) and American Eagle (15% off).

2.  Rainbow Style.  A trend I'm loving as we move into summer are bright, fun, rainbow stripes!  I'm seeing this colorful pattern on so many pieces from button downs to bathing suits.  I may or may not have just ordered this skirt.  I'm already dreaming of it's styling potential!

3.  Missing Alices.  A few weeks ago, I mentioned the coincidence that I was reading and listening to two different mystery novels that take place at boarding schools with a supernatural touch.  Well, I've somehow done it again!  Currently, the audiobook I'm listening to and the novel I'm reading are both about characters name Alice who are missing!  I'm listening to Jodi Picoult's Leaving Time and am not sure I'm loving it.  It's been slow going so far but I'm hoping the story picks-up!  I'm also reading Force of Nature by Jane Harper.  Her first novel in the series, The Dry, was one of my favorite reads of 2017 so I have high hopes for number two!

Save

Pink on Pink on Pink

It's no secret that pink is my favorite color, but why did I wait so long to try an outfit full of different shades of my favorite hue?!

I'm linking-up with The Blended Blog today where we are sharing Graduation Looks.  Personally, I am smack dab in the middle of a graduation drought.  I received my Master's Degree in 2010 and have no plans of heading back to school anytime soon.  Further, I don't have children yet, let alone children that could be graduating!

Luckily, as a teacher, I've gotten to celebrate lots of students' graduations, parties and award ceremonies.  Given that these aren't personal events, I don't get as dressed-up as I would for my own graduation, plus I want to look slightly on the professional side (no strapless dresses for me)!  An easy-to-wear dress, some fun wedges and a jacket is my uniform for these end-of-the-year teacher events!

What I'm Wearing:
Dress: Old Navy (similar, similar)
Jacket: La Redoute (exact) Size-up!
Wedges: Macy's (exact)

Don't forget to link-up with The Blended Blog below!

Delicate Details with AUrate

Now, I have fun with statement jewelry as much as the next girl, but my favorite and most-worn pieces of jewelry are the dainty and delicate ones.  So when AUrate New York reached-out for a collaboration, I replied with a whole-hearted "yes!"

The founders of AUrate New York started their jewelry business because they wanted to create timeless pieces that could be passed-down from generation to generation, but on a regular gal's budget!  And it gets even better, each piece is made from amazing quality and conflict free materials.

The first piece I chose from AUrate are these beautiful earrings.  They are so unique, I've never seen anything quite like them.  The earrings somehow make a statement while also being so delicate and pretty.  Each earring is actually three separate pieces that connect around your ear and they come in three metals: gold, rose gold and silver.  I couldn't recommend these earrings more!  They are stunners!

The second piece I chose is the Obelisk Pendant (the shorter of the two necklaces).  I'm fond of layering my delicate gold necklaces to create different looks and I knew this necklace would be perfect for that purpose.  This sweet, little piece also comes in gold, rose gold and silver.  Both pieces are an amazing price for the uniqueness and quality that you receive.

So, if you are looking to add a meaningful piece of jewelry to your collection or want to purchase a special gift for someone you love (and not break the bank), take a look at the AUrate New York collection.  I couldn't recommend them more highly!

J'adore 5.11.18

Welcome to J'adore, my weekly space for sharing what makes me happy lately!

1.  Kopari Skin Care.  After hearing a few of my favorite bloggers mention the Kopari line of skin care products on Instagram, I decided to give them a try during Sephora's big sale a few weeks ago.  I found this Coconut Your Selfie Kit that contained all three things I wanted to try plus a lip gloss.  I love when cosmetics come in travel sizes so that I can try them without committing to a huge bottle.  I'm smitten with the smell and texture of the Coconut Cleansing Oil and the Coconut Face Cream.   The jury's still out on the Coconut Rose Toner, though.  Do you guys use a toner?  I'm not noticing a difference while using this one.

2.  Qdoba's Mango Salsa.  I've admittedly been eating a lot of Qdoba burrito bowls lately.  I find that at the end of the school year, meal planning and food preparation become too much.  I love burrito bowls because you can make them pretty healthy.  Speaking of which, I highly recommend adding Qdoba's seasonal Mango Salsa to your next dish for a nutritious taste of sweet with all that spicy.

3.  Basket Bags.  Raffia, straw, wicker.  Whatever you want to call them, these handbags, totes and clutches are having a moment.  I've been on the hunt for the perfect one and found it at Anthropologie while I was there shopping with my birthday coupon.  I love that it comes with a pretty scarf tied around the handle.  Which reminded me that I can change-up the look of the bag with the scarves I have hanging in my closet!  EDIT:  All of these Anthropologie bags are 20% off for Mother's Day Weekend!

Update:  While finding the link to the the tote I purchased, I found approximately ten more of these bags that I want from Anthropologie.  At least I attempted to narrow it down to a top three: crossbody,  birdcage, and floral!

EXTRA UPDATE: All of these Anthropologie bags are 20% off for Mother's Day Weekend!

Save

Favorite Tee

Today I'm linking-up with The Blended Blog for our weekly style post and the theme du jour is favorite tees.  I had trouble narrowing-down this topic because I have so many different kinds of favorite tees: graphic tees, comfy bum-around-the-house tees, Michigan State tees...the list goes on!

But when it comes to actually getting dressed (and I'm not talking about leggings and my latest 5k t-shirt), my favorite kinds of tees are easy to throw-on but have a little something special happening.  Take this top, for example.  The neutral color makes it simple to pair and it is so comfortable!  But the little twist at the bottom makes it look like I put in some effort when I really didn't, perfect!

I received this top in my spring Trunk Club (review here).  It comes in several different colors (I think I need that pink one) and has a great weight to it.  If you're looking for a basic piece but elevated, this is it!

And while we're on the topic of Trunk Club, my stylist sent this adorable pair of mules that I receive so many compliments on every time I wear them!  Seriously, get yourself a pair!

And while I'm being so bossy, make sure you link-up your favorite look this week below!

What I'm Wearing:
Top: Nordstrom (exact)
Necklace: Gift (similar)
Purse: Old Navy (exact)
Jeans: American Eagle (exact)
Mules: Nordstrom (exact)

Nickel and Suede

I have a new obsession: Nickel and Suede earrings.  I've been admiring them for years on my friend Shea but have seen then popping-up everywhere lately!

Most days, I just wear dainty, stud earrings but this pair from Nickel and Suede are making me wonder why I don't go bigger more often!  I started with a great, neutral pair in a size small but am ready to branch-out in my next order.

I think I want a pair of textured earrings next but I can't decide between blush, saffron, or spearmint.  What do you think?

What I'm Wearing:
Top: Anthropologie (similar, similar)
Earrings: Nickel and Suede (exact)
Jeans: American Eagle (exact)
Shoes: Keds (exact)
SaveSaveSaveSave

My Birthday Best

Attention, attention: We interrupt your typical Friday programming to wish a very happy birthday to the one-and-only Ada of Elegance and Mommyhood!  If you haven't met Ada, pop on over to her blog!  She is a vivacious woman with a passion for blogging, fashion, poetry and her daughter, Vivian.  Each year on her birthday, she hosts a blog party of sorts.  She invites a few blogging buddies to style our favorite dresses and then we all post on May third and fourth to celebrate the big day!

Here is a message from Ada, herself:

Every year that I have been blogging, since I became a mom, I thought it would be fun to have a Blog Birthday Party on my blog, including other fashionistas and blogging friends. It started in 2013 and this is the 6th year of this fun birthday tradition. When I first started it in 2013 as a beginner, I invited my closest 5-6 blogging buddies who came to visit, read and comment my blog on a daily basis. Over the last 3 years this fun party has grown and it has become a two-day celebration. This year I am joined by another 20 fashionistas who I am lucky to call my friends and who are all super stylish to boot. A lot of these ladies have been celebrating my birthday with me on the blog other years too and I am very glad and flattered to see them return. Thank you beauties for making this tradition super fun, joyful and fashionable once again! Cheers with a Pinot Noir! Here is to another year of getting older and hopefully wiser!

It's a good thing our Michigan weather warmed-up just in time for the birthday party!  Actually, I've worn a dress or skirt each day this because it feels so good to not be stuck in pants or tights.

When I saw this dress from Modcloth in early March, I knew I had to have it even though it wasn't currently available for purchase.  Luckily, Modcloth has this handy feature that allows you to sign-up for e-mail alerts on specific items so that you're notified when they are back in stock.  As soon as I received my alert, you better believe it took only a matter of minutes to add to my shopping cart!

I kept my initial styling classic.  I wore the dress with a denim jacket to work but then I let the stripes be the star of the show for dinner and drinks on the patio.  Neutral wedges, simple gold jewelry and a fun clutch complete the look.

Speaking of a fun clutch, I picked this colorful one up at a local boutique the other day and wanted to showcase it for the first time on Ada's birthday.  Ada is originally from Albania but currently lives in Michigan!  I actually met her in person a few years ago.

So friends, that's it for me today!  Make sure to stop-by to wish Ada a happy birthday and I hope you have a fabulous weekend!

What I'm Wearing:
Dress: Modcloth (exact)
Short Necklace: c/o AUrate (exact)
Long Necklace: Loft (exact)
Clutch: local boutique (exact)
Wedges: Nordstrom (similar, similar)


Save

J'adore 5.3.18

Welcome to J'adore, my weekly space for sharing what makes me happy lately!  I'm sharing one day early this week because I have a special collaboration post in store for tomorrow.

1.  Lisbon Wants Moor from OPI.  You guys, I think I found my signature nail color (that I didn't even know I was looking for)!  During my mental health day last week, I got a manicure in this pretty blush pink from OPI's spring collection.  I cannot get over how much I love it!  I usually have some sort of color on my nails and this is hand's down my favorite.  Ever!

2.  Love.  If you haven't binge-watched Netflix's Love yet, I know what you should do this weekend! With a cast of zany yet lovable characters, I genuinely enjoy this funny, modern-day romance.  We just finished watching the most recent season and I'm already anxious to know what's in store for the lead lovebirds, Gus and Mickey.  (For those just getting started:  while Season 1 is plenty entertaining, the show definitely grows into itself in the second season, so keep watching!)

3.  Starbucks' Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew.  IT'S ICED COFFEE SEASON!  I love my caffeinated goodness whether hot or cold but I do get excited when the seasons change and I can switch-up the temperature of my morning drink.  I got a Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew as my first chilled beverage of the season and I think it will be my coffee choice of the summer!  It's sweet and creamy (obviously) while not being a bajillion calories.  So good!

Currently: May

going: to Traverse City, Michigan and the surrounding area for Memorial Day Weekend.  My boyfriend and I are going to start the weekend by running the Bayshore 10k and then we'll spend the remaining time eating and drinking (wine) to our hearts' content.  My parents are coming, too, and I'm really looking forward to a mini-vacation with some of my favorite people.

celebrating: my birthday!  I turn 32 on Memorial Day so the above-mentioned wine consumption with my loved ones will be the perfect way to celebrate.  (If I survive the 10k first).

sharing: some big news!  At the end of the school year, I'll be leaving my current job as well as my teaching career.  Most of you know that I've been commuting an hour every morning and afternoon to teach at my current school.  It's gotten to be too much, so I made the tough decision to resign from my current position.  Not only that, but I'm only looking for jobs outside of the teaching profession.  This has been a bittersweet decision because part of me truly loves what I do.  But there are a lot of problems with the educational system and there are a lot of other interesting things out there to try!  My heart is ready for a change.  In the meantime, I've embarked on the terrifying journey of a career change and a job search.  Please send positive vibes (and job leads in the Grand Rapids area).

wearing: all the dresses!  Now that winter is finally over, I'm ready to wear all of the pretty dresses in my closet!  I've already pulled-out some old favorites and am looking forward to wearing some new beauties like the ones I got from the Gal Meets Glam Collection.

creating: new blog content.  I'm the first to admit that I was in a bit of a blog funk this winter.  Then my sweet friend Leslie pointed-out that my life is in a really different place than when I started this blog.  In 2013 I was a single girl living in Washington D.C. and was at the beginning of my teaching career.  Today I'm creating a home with my love, enjoying new hobbies and am looking for new direction in life.  I guess my blog should be allowed to grow with me.  I'm headed in the direction of a lifestyle blog with lots of personal style still in the mix.  I don't intend to turn this blog into a diary but I do want to share some of the other aspects of my life that are important.  I hope you'll stick with me as I continue in this new direction!

Linking-up with Anne and Carrie!
SaveSaveSave