finding your personal style

Advice on how to create a style that is uniquely you.

staying true to you

A heart to heart about staying true to yourself in being surrounded by masses.

finding sources of inspiration

Some tips on how to stay motivated on finding sources of inspiration.

a heart to heart about inspiration

A conversation about life inspiration, winter ruts, and feelings. 

photography & editing tips

When I asked you guys on Twitter what you'd like to see from me, tons of you said you'd love to see a photography/editing tips type of post! So that's what I'm doin'!

20 things I realized as I turned 20

1. Putting your happiness first is important. No one will make you feel content but you
2. Be you, post what you want, listen to what you want, create what you want, and just do what makes you happy
3. Don't forget to call your family, it means the world to them
4. Keep on chugging along if something goes wrong--don't let it phase you
5. Listen to people when they are telling stories or venting, actually listen
6. Never be afraid to reach out or message someone
7. Write down what you want to do and accomplish
8. Don't put pressure on yourself to go out of your comfort zone. If the opportunity presents itself and yes, you may feel scared, but it feels right in your heart, do it
9. When you've had a bad day, don't take it out on anyone else. Ruining a friendship is not worth it just because of being angry in the moment
10. Appreciate your natural beauty
11. Don't pressure yourself to fall in love...and also, don't let any man (or woman) treat you less than
12. I know I say this all the time but it really makes a difference to treasure the little things; it will make you appreciate so much more
13. Nobody knows what they actually want to do with their future...you don't have to either
14. Style is not just something you know right away. You have to play around, go through some terrible fashion moments, and before you know it you will have built your own personal style
15. If you are passionate about something, do it
16. Drink lots of water!
17. Develop a consistent skincare routine, I promise your skin will thank you
18. Opening your mind to other creative outlets is important
19. Slow fashion is something to definitely, definitely consider
20. You deserve what you dream about

advice: the pressures of social media

It is no question that social media has almost taken over our lives. Every morning we wake up, check our phones, and see who has posted already. Brushing our teeth isn't the first thing we do anymore, checking Twitter is. Social media has become a huge part of our lives and, though it can be a space full of creativity, art, fashion, and beautiful friendships (and even relationships), social media can also come with a lot of negative baggage. In a world where everyone shares their lives, how do we compare? 

advice: blogging

A little Q&A and dive into blogging, tips & tricks, and how I got started.

advice: balance

Hi guys! So I'm back here to do a little advice/chit chat talk because I love doing these and it really means the world when you guys want me to talk about something or just share my experiences and help. Not that I'm an expert, at all, but obviously as I have grown older I have truly learned a lot of things about myself. Ever since starting college last year, it has become apparent to me that I am not a procrastinator. And, though I have talked about this in one of my Youtube videos (which you can watch here) I still wanted to write about a concept that is really important when you want to try and be an organized, wholesome, and happy individual--balance. 

Now, even though I am a really organized person, I still get really nervous and anxious about the little things in life or when I feel as if I have a to-do list breathing down my back. And though I am super happy a majority of the time, stress is my worst enemy. It makes me want to cry, push away everyone, lash out, and sort of just want to disappear for a little. Which is why it has become so important to me that I don't get to those points...which can be so hard--especially when I (and a majority of all of us) have emails, due dates, blogging picture due dates, meetings. But, that is why balance is also so important. 

I learned that the best way I get things done is to do them as early as possible. This eliminates so, so much of my stress. Basically, if I have a free day or a free chunk of time out of my day in which I have no plans, I start an assignment that might be due like a week or two from then. I know, it seems a little insane, but you will be so shocked when you realize how much stress that eliminates. Just literally opening up the assignment and doing the APA format requirement is a step. Because truly, the fact of the matter is--starting is the hardest point in anything that you do. It is finding that motivation and that feeling from inside that always tends to hide, especially when it comes to a task you really don't want to do. Taking that first step will make all the difference in the world. 

I like doing that 1-2 weeks before practice for big assignments and papers, but I also like to start a bit early on small things like reading or taking notes for homework. If it got assigned that day in class, I will do it that day. That way, further into the week, you don't have to be like wait, what do I have due again? because it will already be done. It is just the best way to keep organized and check things off your to-do list efficiently. And also, having a planner will help so much. That way you can write your assignments down and never forget about them! 

Now, what about other things? When I am done with school work, I reward myself. That is when I take my blogging pictures, listen to music, feeling free and happy and as if I have conquered my day. Just utilize that time to do the things you love to do. Write, maybe see a friend, go for coffee. Now, I am really lucky that these are the only two things that I am dedicated to--school and blogging (work). So many of you have part-time jobs, internships, sports, etc. I had to do that for 2 semesters and it was really, really not fun. I would have an internship/job right now, but I am taking a lot of difficult classes and I really wanted to focus more on blogging since that is technically my "job" as of right now (and it is a career I want to have for life.) But, for those who have even more on their plate, I would suggest just dedicating a slot time for everything. After class, get your homework/assignments done, #1. Then, with your leftover time, divide it up. One hour for yoga, another hour for photography/writing. Then, after dinner and when you're having relaxing time, answer a couple of emails, prepare yourself for tomorrow, plan out your outfit. I love planning the night before because I know then I won't be scrambling in the morning--I can have my cup of coffee, check Instagram, maybe even watch the news. It just gives a real sense of inner peace and you will feel even more stress-free. 

While we are talking about balance, I also want to say that I think it is really important if you can just have a day, or maybe even half a day, to just focus on yourself. No work, no assignments, just you and maybe a nice shower/bath, some tea, a facial, a book. I have mentioned this in my 'how to stress less' blogpost, but it TRULY feels so rewarding you guys. Sometimes we are so surrounded by people and stress (especially if you live in busy, crowded cities) that it can drive us crazy. If every week you can have a little time to yourself, it will make you feel even more balanced and happy. 

Conquering balance in your life is not an easy thing. Even though I have found the routines that work for me, I still get stressful moments. You just have to breathe and realize that everything will seriously be okay. And that there are always people out there to help. I love you and I'm sorry if this was one big jumble, hopefully it was easy to read and really helped if you are struggling with how to get a routine down. Let me know in the comments what you think or maybe if you have your own unique ways of having balance in your lives 🤗

Xoxo,
Christie

q&a

Hi guys! So I asked you on Twitter/Instagram to send me in some questions that I could answer in a q&a video. And literally I filmed that video yesterday 3 times (or tried to) and for some reason it just was not working for me! I think I am in a video rut. And I am so sorry because I know you guys love Youtube videos but, it is the new year, and I've decided I don't want to put up content just because I have to. I want it to feel free, organic, and something I'm proud of. So instead I decided to take your beautiful questions to this blog and answer them here ♡

paranoid678 on Twitter asked...
"What is the most important thing that makes your relationship a happy relationship?"                                                                       
I love this question! I think that support is unbelievably important. Adam always, always supports me in everything that I do. He's always the first one to like my photos or leave a sweet comment, always helping me with my business emails or even taking photos for me when I can't find a friend/photographer and I'm in a rush. He is always so happy and proud for me, and of course I would do the same for him. No matter what he decides to do with his future, I'll be right there, holding his hand, and he'll be holding mine. 

jessxscarlett on Twitter asked...
"What are some of your favorite coffee shops in NY?"                                                                                                                             
My favorites include Ost Cafe, Stumptown Coffee Roasters in the West Village, Toby's Estate in the West Village, and Epistrophy in Soho (even though that is more of a lunch/brunch spot, you can still get a really nice latte).

le_nemophilist on Twitter asked...
"What first inspired you to start a blog/Youtube channel?"                                                                                                                                       
I actually didn't start my blog thinking 'okay, I want to be a fashion blogger'...it sort of happened by accident! I loved Tumblr (still do obviously) and I got majorly influenced by the pictures I saw and reblogged and I thought, why don't I try taking my own photos? So I started a side blog just so I could have a little diary of all the photos I took. Then, people started seeing it and asking me questions about my room/styling/etc. and I thought "omg this is so fun". I started posting more and more, people asked more questions, and it just rolled from there. Then I started working with brands. And I realized 'this is my dream job'. Then Youtube came with the blogging because my followers really wanted to see videos so I was like 'okay why not' and that's when I started on Youtube!

kate_danielson on Twitter asked...
"What's the best piece of advice you've ever received? Your positivity is so inspiring!"                                                                                     
Thank you so much :') I wasn't always so positive though. Like I've sort of said before, like in my Youtube videos and other advice questions, I used to be really sad and sort of went through a hard time in middle school/high school, way earlier than people usually do. My dad told me "positivity attracts positivity, and negativity attracts negativity." It isn't until now, that I truly took his advice, that I truly understand what that meant...and it is so true! It's like when you're having a bad day and you're angry at the world...that's when little things start happening that piss you off even more. It is because of that negative energy that is attracting those annoying, bad things to happen. But when you're positive, you'll be surprised at how many good little things happen. It is all about changing your mindset and attracting those things that you want with a good, natural light. That is the best advice I've ever received.

hxllyelizxbxth on Twitter asked...
"What is your favorite book/film and why?"                                                                                                                                                                   
I'm going to go with film because I haven't been able to read many books lately :"( too much going on. But I just saw La La Land and hands down it is the best film I have ever seen. It is so beautiful guys you must see it. The music, Emma Stone & Ryan Gosling, the story, the filming of it...all of it is so wonderful. It is about dreamers and romantics and I have always been both of those things so everything in that movie just pulled on a heart string in the best way possible.

christiescx on Twitter asked...
"Where do you want to travel to?"                                                                                                                                                                                    
There are so, so many places. I still haven't got to Europe and I must do it soon. I really want to go to Paris, Italy, London, Amsterdam, Berlin, Stockholm. Paris is my #1, of course.

heathershabitat on Twitter asked...
"What advice would you give to turn fashion blogging/Pinterest/Instagram into a career?"                                                                            
I would say make a business email. Reach out to companies. Take every opportunity you can, even if it is not paid. Develop a style and aesthetic that is simply you. Be super kind. Experiment, grow, and stay super, super dedicated.

mrtosaj on Twitter asked...
"Can you name your top 5 artists/musicians/bands that you really like?"                                                                                                               
Gregory Alan Isakov, Bon Iver, The Lumineers, The 1975, and Keaton Henson.

goldishteen on Instagram asked...
"Who are your fashion icons? What would you do if you weren't a blogger? What are you studying?"                                                          
I really admire Alexa Chung. She is so beautiful and stylish. Lily Rose Depp, Camille Rowe, Jane Birkin, Jeanne Damas, all the French gals I follow on Instagram. If I wasn't a blogger I would definitely still be studying fashion and doing what I do now, but I guess I would do social media or styling for another company. Or I would work for another blogger. And I am studying marketing!

g.aangela on Instagram asked...
"How do you edit your pictures?"                                                                                                                                                                                     
I use Vsco Cam & After Light!

That's it my friends! Thank you so much for those who asked questions, I'm sorry I couldn't do them all, I just wanted to keep it short and sweet but answer the questions that you guys really wanted to know answers to. Let me know if you liked this format, I would totally do this again! And, I'm sorry about my Youtube funk, hopefully it will be over quickly and I should have a video up soon! Hope you all have a great day.

Xoxo,
Christie

reflections & new times

Looking back on 2016, it was obviously a hard year for all involved. So many insane and sad things happened it was almost hard to remember the good. As I was looking through my camera roll last night, I realized that so much has happened that I haven't even appreciated. I can't believe how much I have grown this year as a person. There are so many things that I still need to work on, but I wanted to just write this blog post to take a moment to reflect and also see what I want to improve on during this beautiful new year that is 2017 🌟

A huge thing that happened in 2016 was moving into my own apartment. Though it's a bit fuzzy, that polaroid up there was taken the day I moved in. Literally a blanket, a pillow, a laptop, and a night stand table on a wooden floor and some random plants on the window sill. Whenever I look at this photo there is a tug at my heart that just reminds me of how lucky I am and how much things can grow and be created. Now my room is my literal sanctuary. I don't even think I would change anything about it, which is huge for me to say since I am always fussing around with styling and interior. 

Another thing that I am just so happy about is my blog and how I really know what my style is now--what I love to photograph, what kind of mood I want to capture, what clothes I actually like, what I want my future career to be. I have experimented with all types of styles in the past, and if you scroll back into the archives of my Tumblr (please don't) you can see how my style has evolved every year. I feel like now I truly know what I like and what I don't like--something I have been working on for so long. Obviously my style will continue to change, but at least I feel like I have a really good grip on it now.

When it comes to love, I've been in the longest relationship I have ever been in and it doesn't even feel like it's been that long. All I know is every day I fall more and more in love. I seriously didn't think that was possible.

I also want to thank you guys for supporting me SO much. I would be nowhere if it wasn't for you all. You make my heart full and you make my dreams literally come true. It is such a pleasure to talk with you guys, to give advice, and to record videos/make blogposts that you guys like and are helpful to you. That is why I do all of this, just because I want to be able to make a little difference in this hectic world. All I want to do is to make others happy or just feel a certain mood and to help. Thank you again just to those who have been with me since the beginning or have just started following me! It has been such a wonderful journey :")

With all of this reflecting aside, there are still things I want to work on and improve on in 2017. Because I have always been shy and timid, I would sometimes turn down opportunities because they were too out of my comfort zone or because of my nerves. In 2016 I really tried changing that and it has worked, but I still want to keep going and keep saying 'yes' to more photoshoots, events, even meetings with new people. The other little things on that list are just things that have been on my mind, but still I want to grow and take them into consideration. The main resolution is to just do more out of my comfort zone and learn to be more confident and not so afraid.

Woo, this was a long one! Sorry for the rampage but I felt like it was necessary. Again thank you all so much for all your support. What is your new years resolution?

Xoxo,

Christie

the little things that make me happy

I always love noticing the little details that send a comforting shiver down my spine. It baffles me sometimes that even the simplicity of lighting a candle can bring so much joy and coziness, or how cracking open a new book can make you feel instantly at home in the strangest of places. I think it is so great when we all can be comforted by these little things, since they can make us happy instantly, and once you conquer that, you'll be able to truly find beauty in things you never would have before. That's why, on this peaceful Monday, after crossing off all the things on my to-do list, I wanted to put together a post about my favorite little things. 

1. candles

This definitely comes at no surprise...but I really love lighting up a new candle with some matches and just lazing in the yummy scent it gives off. My favorite candles are from Anthropologie, specifically from their Boulangerie line, as well as Diptyque, P.F. candle co, and Bath & Body Works. They can transform any space into a romantic, cuddly type of atmosphere. Also, I got those new candle holders because I've been dying for them in rose gold and I finally snatched them up at World Market. Love the simply chicness they bring to that side table, and again, just sort of reminds you of another place in time.

2. a good book

I love the smell of books and the way they feel in your hand...no amount of technology can replace books for me. I just finished A Magnolia Story yesterday, and I absolutely loved it. It's crazy how much inspiration books can give you and teach you. I feel so much more happy, appreciative, and like I can accomplish my goals. Reading an empowering book like I just did can really leave you with pure joy and inspiration! I hope to read more soon and start a new collection in this new apartment, since I left all my old books at home. 

3. a clean closet

I love having everything clean, so when my closet is clean too, I feel like a whole new person. I love getting rid of old clothes, making way for the new, putting them in boxes to donate or sell. There's just something so rewarding about the whole process. I also love adding things to my rack and just seeing where my style is headed in that moment. It is just another little thing that inspires me so much.

4. healthy plants

There is nothing I love more than when my plants, after a couple of weeks, are still alive and thriving. I love buying new ones, taking care of them, and really learning how each watering and treatment is different for each plant so, when I'm older, I can remember them and have a really nice garden or plant collection. The greenery brings me so much happiness and it makes your space even more friendly and alive. If you're feeling down, go buy a new plant or a bouquet of flowers. Your mood will change instantly (well I can't guarantee...but I really hope!) 

5. skincare

I feel like I always mention skincare, mostly because I'm really obsessed, but also because I can't express how great it makes me feel. Just putting on moisturizer makes me feel like a better lady. I think it's because I grew up watching my mom use so many nice products and I always marveled at her collection, so I am so happy to start making my own. It's so fun trying out new products, seeing how they feel on your skin, what works. Simply getting a new hand cream makes me happy. Again, a silly, trivial thing, but that's what this post is about right?!

how to de-stress

Hi all ❤︎ I wanted to do this post because I know that we are all feeling extremely vulnerable in these insane times. It has been such a stressful, sad week and I know we can all benefit from comfort and relaxing right now. I decided to gather some tips on how to de-stress and what to do if you want to untangle and take a day for yourself. You most definitely deserve it.

When there's so much going on and when we have anxiety, we tend to neglect our bodies and we might even forget to eat or drink water. But, this ends up taking a terrible toll because when we are stressed, our body is using up even more energy. It is really important to nourish with nice foods, veggies, and water because it is when our body really needs it. Make a smoothie, have an apple, drink extra water. We need to pay attention to what our bodies are telling us and what we are neglecting in that moment. It will also make you feel better not only physically, but mentally as well. Like I talked about in my 'tips for confidence' post, it is just always so important to listen to your body and soul. Especially during a hectic time ❤︎ also other little tips to help include taking a bath, giving yourself little massages, having green tea, and taking care of your skin. 

Reading, whether it be an actual book or through social media, can really help during stressful times. Having your favorite book to take you away from the world a little is always so nice, especially in a bath or after a nice shower. Read your favorite novel, watch your favorite movie, and feel happiness. Get connected to it.  Also, though it really depends on how you feel, I know there is so much going on in social media that it might be smart to take a little break from it and focus on the little activities that give you happiness. Almost like ignorance is bliss in a way. Or, if reading social media makes you feel better, do it! It really depends on what you prefer :-) I just know that, not even during this specific time, social media can sometimes make us even more stressed. Technology is always a good thing to take our minds away from time to time. 

Take a hot shower, slip into your favorite pajamas, have some water, and snuggle into bed with your laptop or book or journal. I know this is something so simple, but feeling comfy/cozy will make your mind feel so relaxed. It is great to unwind at night like this. It will make your body feel serene too. Open your window, get a little fresh air. Clear your mind of those negative thoughts. Watch a funny show on Netflix. It'll make your heart feel much happier ❤︎

-

I really really hope this post helped you in de-stressing and maybe even convinced you to just take a little time away and dedicate an hour to yourself. It will really help in the long run. Also, if anyone wants to talk, please don't hesitate in sending me a message. Though I try to keep my social media politic/issue-free, just because I want this to be a nice, safe, happy environment people can come to get way from issues, doesn't mean I don't want to share my concerns or thoughts. I really do care and I would love to talk to you guys about how you're feeling. I love you all and you are all in my thoughts and in my heart.

Xoxo,

Christie

tiny tips on how to feel confident

Hi guys! I've always wanted to do a post about being happy, healthy, and confident, because I know how terrible it feels when we get into our glum days or how easy it is to feel insecure in this ever changing, pressured world. In the future I definitely want to do an elaborated post or even a video talking about being confident, but today I just wanted to put together some little things you can do that can help improve your mood and view on yourself ♡

don't be so hard on yourself

When you say negative things about yourself, whether it be aloud or in your own head, your mind, as well as your esteem, is getting beaten by harsh words and it can take its toll. Try, everyday, to stop those thoughts. Instead, replace it with something like "I am okay. I am beautiful. I can do this." I know it sounds unbelievably cheesy, but you have no idea the impact that this can have once you try doing it yourself. In saying negative things, the only person you are hurting is yourself. Stop those words, stop being negative, and open up to positivity and kind thoughts. Not only will you start being positive about yourself and start feeling great about yourself, but your attitude towards life will change for the better as well. 

don't compare

We're all surrounded by books, magazines, and tons of social media that influence the way we see ourselves. Make sure that you don't compare yourself to all the commercials, the ads, the photos that you see every day. It is important to know the difference between something/someone who inspires you and something/someone that has a negative effect on your self confidence. If there's an Instagram account of a person that you find yourself comparing every little thing about him/her to your life, unfollow. It is only having a negative impact, especially if you're not getting any real inspiration from the account. I used to follow a lot of models, until I realized...seeing their beautiful selfies every day made me feel so much less than. I unfollowed, and that's okay! Just know that on social media, there is always more and lives don't look as 'perfect' as they seem, ever. There is nothing wrong with not following someone because of jealousy or if they are having that strong, negative impact. Surround yourself with people, magazines, books that inspire you to improve yourself and who give you motivation!

take care of your body, your soul, and your mind

It is really important that you take time for yourself and treat your body the way it is meant to be treated. Drink water, eat veggies, take a bath and do a facial every once and a while, have some tea. You're probably wondering...well how would things like this improve my self confidence? Because it will make you feel purely good. Once you feel good on the inside, your outside will shine with benefits as well. I love my little pampering nights because not only does it give my mind a sense of peace, but I just feel really great and even 'pretty' the next day. It just truly can enhance your mood. It is almost like if you were to go to bed at 3am versus 10pm. If you were to go to bed really late, you'll feel sluggish and just want to throw on sweatpants in the morning. But if you get those extra hours of sleep, you'll feel great and ready to go the next day! Taking care of the body, mind, and soul will just help you feel happy, healthy, and confident. tell yourself you are beautiful, until you believe it (because you are)

Another amazing tip for self-confidence that I found to be so helpful: fake it until you make it. I know, again, this sounds like huh?? But the fact of the matter is, if you truly start telling yourself you are beautiful, you can do anything you want, the future is endless...your mind will believe it. And soon enough, you're really start feeling this way. Self-confidence is no easy thing...it took me YEARS and years to finally feel good in my own skin. It is hard, it is trial and error, it might take some tears...but it is all about changing your perceptions and opening up your mind to happiness, positivity, and light. Again, I know I sound like a yogi, but it really is true. Take pictures of yourself, write down your features and details you love, accept your flaws (because literally everyone in the world has them). Accept and love accept and love.-I really hope you found this helpful in some way. I just really want to do a post like this because so many people send me questions about self-confidence, and the things they say about themselves just makes me really sad. Please love yourself, please treasure yourself, there is no one out there like you. Remember, you are beautiful and were put in this world for a reason. Xoxo,Christie