Category: Uncategorized

All photos via Snapshots By Sierra

A little over a week ago, I had the opportunity to participate in the Strong Women In Fashion Show benefiting Suited For Change and it was such an amazing event! The show brought together small Georgetown businesses Lili The First, Signature Dresses, Via Umbria, and Illusions of Georgetown to raise money for a great cause and I’m so honored that I was asked to be part of it. Suited for Change is a nonprofit organization that helps women gain financial independence through career coaching, resume workshops, proving professional clothing, and more, and the show sold out so we were able to raise quite a bit for them! The vendors that sponsored the show were absolutely amazing and I can’t say enough wonderful things about them. 

Illusions of Georgetown did all of the models’ hair and makeup and they did a fabulous job. I loved my fancy updo! I’d never had my makeup professionally done before so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but it was definitely fun to try out a completely different look than I’m used to.  While I don’t dye my hair (I’m ashamed to admit I use John Frieda lightening spray in lieu of highlights) I’ve seen the salon work wonders with color treatments and they do some amazing blowouts! I’d highly recommend checking them out for your next cut and color or style.

Lili The First and Signature Dresses provided the looks for the show and they styled an awesome array of looks for all shapes and sizes. My outfit was from Lili and it was actually a top and skirt with 3 different necklaces layered! The boutique specializes in super unique, European-inspired pieces and I’d suggest making a trip there if you want an outfit that no one else in the District will have. Signature is obviously a formal dress shop and would 100% be my go-to destination if I ever had a need for gowns! 

Via Umbria graciously provided the venue for the show and I can’t wait to go back and drink wine on their rooftop patio. The restaurant features a wide variety of Italian-inspire fare and features wines, cheeses, and more in its marketplace. 

It was so much fun to get to meet and work with so many empowering women for a great cause and I’m super thankful to everyone who came out for the event! Shout out to Mama Collie and my dad for making the trip to see me pretend to be a model ❤

All photos via Snapshots By Sierra

First, let me preface this with I wrote this alone at the bar at Pizza Paradiso, waiting for the manfriend for dinner. About a year ago, this is something that would have absolutely terrified me – sitting alone at a bar that is – but now I (almost) don’t bat an eyelash at it. I want every sassy, empowered woman that reads this blog to be able to do and feel the same, so I wanted to share my tips for mastering the art of being alone with you all. (P.S. I’m sharing this look with you because I fully intended on wearing it on my day of freedom – which you’ll read more about below – but the weather was not cooperating with me.) 

I definitely wouldn’t classify myself as an introvert, but the older I get, the more important alone time becomes to me. Alone time used to mean having the apartment to myself for a few hours while my roommate was out, but now it’s translated to spending time doing things I want to do, without having to adjust my plans for someone’s schedule or take into account that they don’t want to eat this or that. 

This past weekend, the manfriend was out of town for a bachelor party and I had been looking forward to spending a day in the city by myself for literally TWO MONTHS. Between events, guests in town, and traveling, I’ve felt like a chicken with my head cut off running around so I intentionally kept Saturday blocked off even though I had no concrete plans. I  ended up going to Shake Shack and eating lunch by myself, unfortunately going to work for a few hours, then sampling wine at Flight, and finally seeing Beauty and the Beast and it was amazing.

Since the idea of going out somewhere by yourself is scary, I’ve compiled a few tips to help you jump-start your own solo adventure. Who knows, you might love it as much as I do!

• Start small: going to the movies solo is the best way to adventure out on your own for the first time. The first time I saw a movie alone was because a friend stood me up 20 minutes before showtime and I had won free tickets so I was determined to go. I ended up giving my other ticket to a girl who was also solo behind me and cried through the whole movie because my feelings were so hurt. It turns out,the experience was a good wake-up call to realize that I needed to get comfortable with doing things alone. So, the movies are a good place to venture out solo because a) you get to eat all the popcorn b) it’s way easier to find a good seat for one and c) literally no one cares that you are alone while you’re in the dark 

 

• Do your research: you probably don’t want to go to a raging bar by yourself so take the time to look up some low key spots. I’ve found that wine bars and even breweries are great spots to go solo because the bartenders are extremely knowledgeable about what they’re serving, and it’s a great icebreaker to ask what they recommend. Chances are, they’re so excited to talk to someone about something that they are passionate about that you’ll be able to have a fantastic conversation and learn a lot in the process too! 

 

• Bring a prop: a book, a phone, gosh even your knitting needles if you’re into that! Bring something to do so that you don’t feel awkward. I personally prefer to bring a book over my phone because someone with their nose in a book is more approachable than someone rapidly shooting out texts. I had a lovely conversation about the book I was reading at flight with my bartender that never would have been sparked if I was furiously shooting texts to anyone who would answer

 

• HAVE CONFIDENCE – it might feel like everyone is staring at you, and they might be because you are a STRONG INDEPENDENT WOMAN and they are jealous, but in all reality, they’re probably just checking you out or not paying any attention at all. Own that you are by yourself and enjoy the fact that you can order anything off the menu without catering to your vegetarian friend (guilty, that’s me) and eat all the damn French fries you ordered without having to share 

Enjoy being alone with your thoughts and if you wish, you can shop my look below. It allows for both all of the solo French fries and popcorn consuming 😉 

Dress | Francesca’s

Necklace | Designs by S.E.K.

Shoes | Forever 21 (similar)

Whelp, Twin Ray Apparel has done it again — I am obsessed with their Naomi top. So obsessed, that I ordered it for one of my best friend in white anddd I also got it in nude for myself. White off-the-shoulder tops are a summer staple every girl needs in her wardrobe and I love how unique this piece is! Fun fact: I had to have Gerald tie the sleeves for me, but I think he did a pretty good job! (See the other Twin Ray top I’m obsessed with here.)

One precaution about a white top – especially ones that touch your neck – is that inevitably you are going to get makeup on it. I wear a shit-ton of bronzer, so I always get orange gunk on my white tops! My secret weapon to get the makeup stains out is OxiClean — yes, that laundry stuff from the annoying informercials of our childhood. The stuff is seriously amazing and practically removes every trace of makeup! I also use it on sweat, coffee, and wine stains and it is magical. 

Before you ask, the sleeves ARE attached, but the choker is not and ties in the back. Personally, I think that the choker makes the top, but it’s nice to have the option to not wear it for a different look! I wore this outfit to a cocktail party at the House of Glam (aka Glass Of Glam‘s adorable apartment) where we drank entirely too much champagne but it was the perfect look for a fun night. Side note, all of our men (aka Instagram husbands) came too and are now friends and it was so much fun to see them goof around together! Shop my look below! Psst, get 10% off all Twin Ray Purchases with code DAMSEL10.

Shop My Look: 

Top | Twin Ray Apparel

Shorts | Forever 21

Shoes | Target (super old, but I’ve linked a similar pair!) 

Fun fact — I used to hate maxi dresses. My legs have always been my favorite part of my body so I didn’t want to cover them up (these breezy denim off the shoulder dresses were more my style), but today’s maxi and cross over dresses have totally changed my mind. Maxis have become my go-to for travel (perfect for those air-conditioned flights!), the first thing I grab when I’m feeling bloated in the spring, and my pick for when I want to make a dramatic statement.

Whenever I wear a maxi dress I feel like a princess, and I feel like that’s not a bad thing! I’ve linked some of my favorite picks from RoseGal below so you can channel your inner boho princess this spring. 

Open Back Smoky Gray Dess

Floral Slit Dress

White Floral High Slit Dress

Black Backless Floral Dess

Off The Shoulder Palm Print Dress

Long Sleeve Floral Maxi 

From Cher concerts to drag brunches, blogging events, and volunteering, I feel like I’ve been running around like a crazy person for the past few weeks. I was reflecting on these events and activities the other day and while they’re all very different, they all have one thing in common — I walked away feeling empowered, body positive, and overall happier afterwards. In today’s day and age, I feel like it’s more important than ever to feel confident and empowered, so I wanted to share a roundup of some of the things that made me feel that way that you can experience them yourself!

PS. this is the outfit I wore to see Cher! 

Top | Whistle & Wild (similar)

Jeans | Free People 

Shoes | Violet Boutique 

• Burlesque Show at SAX – the things that the human body can do amaze me sometimes and you will definitely be amazed at SAX. One of the best things about burlesque is that is celebrates every body shape and size, it hones in on the fact that you don’t have to have abs or voluminous curves to be sexy, that you’re sexy as you are and that’s hella empowering. The dancers at SAX are not only extremely talented, but they are insanely strong and their routines show off how many amazing things our bodies are capable of. Plus, the decor and ambiance will make you feel like a ~*fancy lady*~ and gives you an excuse to dress up so it’s a win-win overall
• Girl Power Concert – I recently saw Cher at the MGM with my mom and wowza does that woman have some female power anthems! (And a killer costume wardrobe.) While I realize attending a Cher concert isn’t something you can do at any time, seek out a local female artist who pens songs that inspire you or celebrate women independence. Invite your mom, sister, cousin, best friend – whoever -, to a show and enjoy bonding over all the girl power songs with your fellow concert mates
• Attend A Charity Event – giving back feels good, and attending a fun event for a charitable cause is even better. While I was lucky enough to attend Fashion For Paws on behalf of Mosaic District and Undeniable Boutique, there are plenty of other fun events out that there that don’t have a gala price tag. I’m attending Pints & Puppies in a few weekends benefiting dog rescue organizations and (shameless plug) I’m walking in the Strong Women In Fashion Show on May 4th which benefits Suited for Change. There are also plenty of workout classes that benefit local charities and you don’t have to look too hard to find a trivia night that donates proceeds to a cause
• Drag Brunch – you probably think I’m crazy for including this in here, but the recent drag brunch at Godfrey’s in Richmond that I went to was so much freaking fun. My friend and I took my bestie to the brunch as a birthday surprise, assuming we’d have some laughs and probably drink too many mimosas, but none of us expected the insane body positivity and self love that was celebrated at the show! The Queens were such an inspiration to love yourself for who you are and my face hurt from laughing and smiling so much. If you don’t want to make the trip to Richmond, catch a show at Nellie’s or Perry’s. I guarantee that you’ll leave in the best (tipsy) mood ever!

This Thursday, I had the opportunity to attend a fabulous event at Masseria to celebrate the launch of the Hush Puppies spring line and it was a blast. You probably recall Hush Puppies from back in the day – I remember a lot of private school students used to wear their shoes as part of their uniform – but oh boy has the brand elevated its style! I mean how cute are these Sherlyn Malia sandals I’m sporting? 

While the new spring line is more far more fashion-forward than the shoes I remember from grade school, the brand holds true to its core values of crafting their shoes from high quality materials and prioritizing comfort. The sandals I’m pictured in above are so comfortable, it feels like I’m walking on little cushions of air. I had a brief stint with plantar fasciitis a few weeks ago from walking too far in shoes with no support (FYI plantar fasciitis feels like your arch is being pinched 24/7, it is not fun) so I’ve been much more cautious about the types of shoes I walk long distances in and think I’ve found a great stylish solution in the offerings from Hush Puppies!

Check out some of my favorite snaps from the beautiful event and shop my outfit below!

Shoes | Hush Puppies

Pants | TopShop

Top | Zaful

The gingham trend is everywhere this spring and while it usually conjures up images of my childhood raggedy Ann doll, when spotted in a black and white patterns and elevated silhouettes, it’s easy to see why this is one of spring’s hottest patterns. The fabric makes a statement but can be dressed up or down and mixed with other patterns. I’m a whimp when it comes to mixing patterns, but I feel like a pro could pull it off with florals and look awesome! 

The cut of this top made me feel so chic and of course, I’m obsessed with the statement sleeves. Since the top was pretty girly, I paired it with my favorite moto jeans to toughen it up. I knew I would be walking to see the cherry blossoms after brunch at The Smith downtown and back to my apartment (approximately a 5 mile trip) so I opted for sneakers instead of high heeled sandals (which is what I really wanted to wear with this!) Side note, The Smith was amazing — get the Mac n cheese skillet and thank me later.

When I posted this on my Insta stories and on my feed, I got a lot of questions about StyleWe. They have an insane amount of retargeting advertisements so chances are their ads have probably popped up on your Facebook or web browser if you’re an avid online shopper. Before StyleWe reached out to me I hadn’t heard of the brand, but I was definitely curious to check it out! I have to report back that I was seriously impressed with my experience with them. The shipping was quick – approximately a week -, the tracking numbers were valid, and the packaging was way nicer than the standard, crinkly plastic bags I’m used to getting. The tops I ordered looked exactly like they did on the models online and fit true to size. The quality was definitely on par with the price tag, I walked 8 miles in this top in the sun and while I got a little warm, it definitely still let my skin breathe unlike cheap polyester blends. All in all, my experience with StyleWe was a win! 

Blouse | StyleWe

Jeans | TopShop

Backpack | Rose Wholesale

In less than a month, the manfriend and I will be back in Seaside, Florida! (You can catch my recap posts from the trip here and here.) We went last year and had the best time so I’m super excited to go again. Of course, a trip to the beach means two things 1) I should probably stop eating all the candy from the office treat jar and 2) I’m going shopping.

I actually got my first off the shoulder dress (pictured above) in Seaside last year when the trend was really starting to kick off, and this spring the trend is back and better than ever. Since everyone is wearing the feminine silhouette, I’ve rounded up some unique finds that have differentiating details so you won’t be wearing the same dress as the girl next to you at the rooftop bar. Psst, if you’re looking for some affordable finds, click here!

Happy shopping!

1. High Low Striped Off The Shoulder Dress | Zaful: I love the almost masculine inspired shape and pattern with the feminine neckline on this bold piece
2. Embroidered Off The Shoulder Dress | Zaful: embroidery is another one of season’s hottest trends, nail two birds with one stone in this number
3. Midnight Rose Dress | fab’rik: you guys know I can’t resist a black floral and the dark colors stray away from the typical pastels and chambray patterns you typically see in this type of dress
4. Calin White Off The Should Dress | Shoptiques: how many off the shoulder dresses do you find corset detailing on!? Something about this just really intrigues me
5. Off The Shoulder Ruffles Mini Dress | Zaful: do I even need to comment on this one? The sleeves say it all
6. J. Lo Embroidered Off The Shoulder Dress | Kohl’s: I really just picked this dress because it’s from J.Lo’s line. Just kidding. Statement sleeves, check, embroidery, check, dark florals, check! Why don’t I have this?

 

This post was a collaboration with Zaful. 

 

For some reason, I struggle with putting together outfits that can take me from a 7 PM dinner to a night out on the town, but I think I might have pulled it off with this look. For a girls night out that started with margaritas at El Camino then transitioned into dinner at Red Hen and drinks on U Street, I opted for a roomy swing dress that would let me eat all the things but not look out of place at a crowded bar. 

I’ve always been a big fan of moody florals. While I like looking feminine, I wouldn’t exactly describe my style as girly, so I like the juxtaposition of the delicate print against a dark background. This is also a perfect transitional pattern to take you from winter to spring. (Read more about transitional fashion in my girl Marisa’s post on Alexandria Storybook!) 

Does anyone else struggle with putting together an outfit that’s appropriate for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant but will work for a night out on the town? Leave your tips in the comments below if you’ve nailed the secret style formula! 

Shop My Look: 

Dress | ASOS

Boots | Steve Madden

Bag | Rebecca Minkoff

Fashion For Paws was probably one of the most fun events I have ever been able to attend. I mean, puppies, fashion, and champs for a good cause? The only thing that could have made the night better would have been if it involved Mexican food. I have to send a huge thank you to Undeniable Boutique and the Mosaic District for not only inviting me to the event, but dressing me in this amazing cape dress and fabulous earrings as well! Alicia (the owner and founder of Undeniable Boutique) even lent me her own personal shoes to complete the look. By the way, Alicia and Delta were the cutest on the runway!

The event had SO much positive energy and I had a massive smile on my face the entire runway show. The pups were hilarious on the runway and of course, the fashion was amazing. The evening finished with a high-energy dance party and a killer DJ, the perfect ending to a fantastic night. I was so impressed with how organized everything was and I highly recommend snagging a ticket for next year!

You can learn more about why this event benefiting the Humane Rescue Alliance meant so much to me here, and if you are interested in donating or volunteering with the Humane Rescue Alliance you can here or feel free to reach out!

Check out some of my favorite snaps from the event below.