finding your personal style

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

visuals

Notes of inspiration, photographed by Nicole Marie Ens. 

fresh spring looks

Fresh spring looks to pick you up out of the winter glum. 

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. 

monday inspiration

We all feel a little uninspired on Monday's...so why not take a peak at what has been inspiring me lately.

autumn wish list

A peak into what's on my wishlist for the Autumn season...

july inspiration

I have been lacking inspiration lately, so I forced myself to browse the interwebs and find things that were catering to my interests now. Take a peak!

the feline that is making waves in the art world

Christiane Spansberg, or known in my head as the feline that is making ultimate waves in the art world, is one inspiring woman. I was never a fan of art until I stumbled across her Instagram account (a true millennial story) and fell in love with not only her beautiful works but her way of life as well. Yes, art can be intimidating, but her signature drawings and paintings make one feel at ease and as if they can connect to it, because we can.

my favorite magazines

In the last 2-3 months, I've been obsessing over magazines, which I suppose is an old habit of mine as I am looking over a stack of Kinfolk's that I have collected over the past couple of years. But seriously, I might even be crazy enough to say that magazines are almost better than books (I did say almost). As a visual person, there is so much to absorb from one single magazine photoshoot it can send me into a literal artistic epiphany. With that said, when the right magazine issue comes along it can truly be the thing that inspires you for weeks to come...

interior dreams

Hi guys! I promise this is my last post talking about interiors before I can actually share what I did with my space hahaha, I know it's been so long! I just am stuck in maybe a little creative rut but I am slowly getting out of it, and, of course, going on Pinterest is helping me and providing me with the room inspiration I've been looking for. I have been browsing on Harpers Project and cannot wait to show you guys the pieces a part of our collaboration, too, which will be coming soon. As I mentioned in my latest inspirations post, I have been really getting into the mid century modern look and simplistic design approach. Of course as our styles change, our interior tastes move along with it! I do find myself still being obsessed with neutrals, woods, and marbles, which makes me feel good because that is the style I have always loved. For my new space I am thinking tons of light, white, marble surfaces, plain candles, and little plant decor (of course). I put together a little Polyvore set just to hone in on those focuses and give you guys a peep as to my thought process. Being in this small room does not let me have as much creative freedom as I want, but hopefully I can move some things around and make it work! The living room could definitely use some redecorating as well, but I plan on waiting until I have an established living space to do that. So, until then, making up my room it is! Let me know what you think!

That's just a little bit of the vibe I've been feelin'! Stay tuned for my collaboration with the Harpers Project site, can't wait to show you guys the new pieces I'll be putting in my room! Of course it will take time and you might not see the finished product for a little, but by summer I hope it is everything I have been daydreaming about. Let me know what style you've been admiring lately, I would love to hear! 

Xoxo,

Christie

latest inspirations; spring

Around every month or so I love putting together what is inspiring me currently; whether it be in fashion, interiors, books, etc. My inspirations haven't changed that much since the last inspiration post I did, but I love how much it helps me in personally having a focus in the kind of mood I've been into lately so I decided to throw one up today! To put it simply I have been adoring...

music festival looks

Since Coachella is literally 2 days away, I wanted to put together some 'music festival outfits' which, I know, the title sounds pretty cring-y but I don't know what other title would make sense...

more spring outfits

Hi guys! I've been feeling very inspired lately so I wanted to put up some more quick Spring outfits! Really hope you like.

PASTRIES & TRENCH COATS

WHITES & NEWSPAPERS

 ROCK N' ROLL CHIC

LA

A link to my Polyvore is here. Have a beautiful Monday!

Xoxo,

Christie

some spring outfitting

Hi guys! As promised, I wanted to put up some spring-inspired outfits today because even though there is a snow storm we can all dream and try to get inspiration for the warm, beautiful, floral-y months ahead.

straw, lace, & white

White tops with delicate details. Clean lace. Oval, sassy sunglasses. Straw accessories.

a little bit of edge

Red accents. Pointy loafers. Black jean skirts. Gold accessories. Vintage t-shirts.

a little bit of fancy

Blush. Chanel-inspired shoes. Cat eye sunglasses. Ribbons.

earthy

Straw textures. White sneakers. Gold framed glasses. Neutral tones.

And that's it! Because this is early I'm sure I'll have another one of these posts in the works once spring arrives. If you want to know where anything is from in each of the sets, you can go to my Polyvore here and click on the outfit which will show you all of the details. Love you guys and let me know which outfit is your favorite!

Xoxo,

Christie

the spring issue

Even though it is frigidly cold in New York City, I have been cleaning and organizing through my closets and revamping my room to make way for the upcoming Spring season. I am so, so excited, mainly because Spring is like a time of rebirth; everyone crawls out of their New York City caves, restaurants move seating outside into the sun, and it can finally be time to whip out backless loafers, purely white, ruffled shirts, and cutesy dresses. Though we still have ways to go, this upcoming shift has me feeling inspired. Today I bought some flowers while grocery shopping, changed my sheets, and I finally feel fresh again.

Also, yes I bought those crazy shoes to inspire my spring wardrobe. I've honestly never bought a 'statement' pair of shoes before. I can't wait to bust them out when the weather becomes warmer. They are a metallic-y rose gold color and reflect sunlight like I've never seen a pair of shoes do before. No shoe shining needed here (from Zara).

Also, if you're looking for a fresh scent for your home, I recommend Diptyque's Figuier. It literally makes my room smell like fresh flowers, figs (of course), and freshness. I recommend 100%. I am also so into straw lately (straw bags, straw hats) and this one from Lack of Color is my favorite. I recently ordered an Etsy straw bag that I can't wait to show you guys! In case you're wondering, the pretty lacey bralette is from Chantelle and the gold-bracelet bag is from Frankie. 

Skincare-wise, I definitely want to try more products by Fresh because rose is my ultimate favorite scent and they have so many rose-scented products. Aromas aside, my friend recommended them to me and said I needed to try their products ASAP. So I decided I should definitely give them a go. I recently purchased their Rose Cleansing Foam and fell in love. I also hope to explore more into Aesop because they are such a beautiful and wholesome brand. 

Even though this post is pretty blush themed (me...blush themed??) I have been loving red and whites and blacks and greys and browns. I hope to stick with that color palette, while incorporating some spring tones, into my wardrobe! Tomorrow I plan on having some spring outfits up on here so stay tuned! What are you feeling for spring?

Xoxo,

Christie

latest inspirations

Hi dears! So I wanted to make a little creative post today because I've been feeling unbelievably inspired lately. I have a sudden urge to change up my room a bit and make it more mature...mostly because...well...I think I'm maturing! And as you mature, your tastes obviously change and build and I find myself just wanting more quality over quantity, which I know is a concept we all hear all the time. I just feel more charged up, wanting even more simplicity than I usually do, and having a passion towards art like I never really have before. I've always been an admirer of art and film photographs (obviously) and Parisian style, but the difference I find in myself now is that I want to act upon it, rather than dream and look on. And I thought what is better way to than to organize my thoughts into some mood boards!

With that said, I do want to change up my room a bit, like I said before. I want to cover my desk in a white marble pattern (I found a Youtube tutorial and you can literally buy marble-like textures and glue it to your desk). I have a gold tray to store all my beauty/fragrance products because my desk has become a little bit of a mess of 'em. I'm going to hang up some wall prints above my bed that I picked out from Etsy (I just need to print them out at Staples and frame them and hang them...uye it will be bit of a process). Some of the prints are fashion inspired and some are just plain ol' nostalgic. And just little touches here and there, like organizing my books and investing in some great fashion books for a future coffee table. Is it weird that coffee table aesthetics really make me excited?

I also added some other things, like that crazy gold mirror...obviously I don't want a mirror that insane, but I've always wanted a gold-framed mirror for when I have a little makeup vanity or to hang against a wall. Again, future goals people.

I've been super obsessed with marble lately and also just really nice, light wood textures. I've also been loving furs (not real ones) and other textures that just really can spice up any space. I've been eyeing some marble book ends so I can actually have my favorite books on my desk without having to lean against something that is unstable. I feel like I'm maturing in the way that I really want to try new things, add something different to make it even more home-y yet maybe sort of trendy.

And, of course, my skincare obsession continues, which is why I had to add them in every set. Not that I still don't absolutely love my St. Ives or Proactiv ;-) But anyway, that's really all! Just wanted to share with you the subtle improvements I want to make within the next 3 months. Right in time for a new, Spring look! It'll just freshen things up a bit. I've been in this apartment for almost a year so I feel like it's only necessary, especially since I haven't changed a thing at all. I'm also thinking about getting a new theme for this blog, since I've had it for way more than a year! Again just something fresh. What do you guys think? What have you been obsessing over?

Xoxo,

Christie

valentines day outfit ideas 2017

Hi beautiful people. I was searching through the blog archives and I found my old Valentines Day inspiration post and thought it would be a good idea to do another one since February 14th is popping up sooner than we thought. Not that it's that crazy of a holiday, but I love curating outfits to help if you guys are in a pickle decision-making wise. And, like I stated a year ago in the last blogpost, no matter how/who you are spending it with I hope you spend time treasuring yourself too. Whether you're single, sort-of-not-single, in a relationship, or many of the other options, know that you are precious and whoever you are spending it with is very lucky to have you.

pamper night to yourself

Champagne. Facials. Cozy blanket. Candles. Lace. 

Dancing around in your underwear.

date night

Wine with your man/woman. Red lips. Black lace. 

Gold jewels. High ankle boots.

going out with gal pals

Flirty dress. Lace up heels. Vintage bag. 

Day out shopping. Club/bar at night. 

blind date

Comfy vintage jeans. French touches. Trench coat.

A cute dinner and movie night.

And if you want to know the details of each of these outfits, here is a link to my Polyvore! I really hope you liked this and it gave you some sort of inspiration! It is actually going to be my second year with Adam as a Valentine (and I'm sure many more to come) and I don't know what our plans are but I'm sure it'll be something along the lines of date night! Love you guys and let me know which one is your favorite x

Christie

gift guide for her

Hi guys! It's finally getting Christmas-y on my blog today, woo! I seriously don't think I've ever enjoyed this season so much. I think watching Youtube videos and just browsing on social media has really given me so much inspiration for this time of year! I decorated my room (which you can see a video of here) and today I am doing a gift guide for moms, sisters, friends, and secret santas just to help and give inspiration for you who are struggling with gifts (I feel your pain!!)For the adults (mom, aunt, cousin): For some reason I really think that adults would really enjoy candles, or maybe more specifically a Diptyque/Jo Malone sort of fragrance for their homes. They are more on the expensive side so it can feel like you're gifting them something really special and "fancy", if you'd like to think of it that way, and also if they like that type of vibe! I adore how chic they look, and if you're mama is definitely one for having a nice, clean, aromatic home, this can definitely be something great for her. The candles could also be reused to look nice in a bathroom while still being useful. I would also recommend maybe a cute calendar or planner from Anthropologie if they like being organized, or a pair of fancy scissors for decorative or even real usage purposes. It is so hard to gift for adults because they obviously have a lot of things already, so I would really try to be different and think of something unique yet special. Candles, perfumes, a mug, a tea set, a robe, a spa get away, a cute/funny apron, can definitely be the way to go!For the sisters: For some reason I always gift my sister something from Lush, not only because she's obsessed with their bath bombs but also because they always have a cute holiday collection that is perfect for gifting. What could be better than getting a delicious-smelling bath bomb or facial?! Also, I think plants can be really cute as well, or maybe even artwork or cute decorations for their room. Urban Outfitters has amazing little gifts for decor. Just try to think cozy, artistic, creative, and what are they drawn to? I think soaps, Lush, plants, frames, decor accents, a record player, could be nice possible gifts to give a sis. 

Friends: I think when it comes to friends, the simpler the better. What about a nice bottle of wine or alcohol for their bar cart (if they can drink).  Or a Polaroid camera, a book of romantic poems, a nice cream or moisturizer, a calligraphy set, one of their favorite records that they don't yet have. A cozy sweater for the winter would be so nice too, or a pair of cute handmade mittens. Their favorite weird coffee or a French film. Again, you know them better than anyone so you know what makes them tick! These are just some outlines/ideas in case you're stuck and need to get your mind flowin'! Think music, polaroids, books, wine, sweaters, and accessories.-I seriously hope this gave you some inspiration for gift-giving to your favorite gals this holiday season. Let me know if maybe you want to see a guy version or maybe another sort of Christmas-inspired post? I am definitely in the spirit so I'm sure there will be another holiday post up soon! Hope you're all having so much fun shopping and that your holiday season has kicked off to a great start!
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?!