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

new years outfit inspiration

Hi guys! So I wanted to do another little outfits post because I know you guys really like them and I definitely wanted to get a post up this week because I've been so in that holiday laziness! I will definitely be back on my grind soon, but I'm just waiting to settle back into my apartment and feel my usual New York City inspiration. But anyway,  here are some New Years Outfits I've thought up!

1. DATE NIGHT

I thought up this one for those who are maybe going to a nice dinner or party, where champagne and drinks are involved but you still want to be classy and sophisticated. I would really recommend a flowy dress paired with a sparkly bag and tights to get that classic New Years glitter vibe.

2. NIGHT WITH THE GIRL GANG

This outfit was inspired by a night of clubbing and being with friends with cocktails and confetti. Sparkly dress, tights, sweet heels. I would also recommend a crossbody bag so you can keep it with you all night yet still be able to dance and kiss strangers and not worry about a thing.

3. A NIGHT IN

This one is for those who are just having a night in with their loves or cozy by themselves with face masks, champagne, and Chinese food. Honestly I think this is the option that I am going for. Pajamas, thick socks, and watching the New Years events on tv.

Link to my Polyvore here.

~

Whether you decide to go out or stay in, I really hope all of your New Years are exactly what you want them to be and that everyone is stays safe! So much love to all of you! I believe Adam and I are just going to stay in and do that channel that 'night in' set. What do you plan on doing? 

Xoxo,

Christie

a french holiday

I know the holidays have only just begun, but when my amazing friend Hannah came to New York this week, we just got majorly inspired to do a 'after holiday blues' sort of photoshoot, featuring some beautiful For Love & Lemons pieces from Planet Blue. There is something so charming about waking up with glitter on your face, in last night's heels, after celebrating the New Year and friends and family. I'm definitely a sucker when it comes to the classic glitz and glamour of the holidays, and we were also majorly inspired by French style. What else is new.

Paired with: Topshop beret, Asos fishnet tights, Asos heelsI 

When we get together, Hannah and I literally just go crazy with photos and everything, it makes me feel so happy and inspired. Check out her Instagram, it's amazing. I really hope you guys liked these photos too! I'm leaving for home tomorrow and I could not be more excited. Of course I love New York but I need to decompress a little bit. The crowds have been really making me tired and I can't wait for my pup, my sister, my friends, and my love all celebrating the holidays together. I definitely want to do a post about what I want to accomplish in 2017 also. That will definitely be up on this blog soon! Let me know if there is anything else you'd like to see also :-) 

Hope everyone has a beautiful holiday and let me know what your plans are ❤︎ I always love reading through your comments, they make me so happy.

Xoxo,

Christie

me and him

On a crisp December day my love and I waited in the West Village, giddy with excitement and nerves. I have always wanted to take cute "aesthetic" photos with him since all I had were terrible selfies and Snapchat filters, so you could understand my frustration when I couldn't post those since I have such a strict Instagram (by choice hehe). We were waiting for our amazing photographer, Benjamin Patch, to come and photograph us wandering around and exchanging sweet, corny kisses. Tessa joined us as well and we basically had a photography party filled with laughs and lots of love. Photographs aside, I do want to talk about love for a little bit.

I do like keeping my personal life private because I feel like that is such a precious gem to find nowadays. Of course I love sharing my excitement and thrills of being in love with you guys, especially since I never had any real boyfriends before this (also, how cringy is the word boyfriend). But there's also something so romantic and charming about a little mystery. I will tell you that his name is Adam and we met a little more than a year ago when I moved to the city for school. I was always too scared and too shy in front of men, but he made me feel oddly comfortable. I already knew that was some sort of sign. We are seriously so silly and all we do is laugh and I've never found something that makes me feel so whole. 

 I honestly have always thought that I wouldn't really find someone--because of my shyness and timidness and how I was so comfortable being alone. And, as always being an independent person, it wasn't really easy to adapt to someone being so involved in a life that yes, I share over social media, but never truly shared with someone else. It was always my little hobby that I would come home to and lock myself away and work and be happy. I didn't realize that the only thing that could make me happier than that was sharing it with someone. I cannot explain the joy I feel when he points something out that I would take a photo of, or how he smiles whenever I scream about cute plants or a fluffy, over-the-top coat.

I got seriously lucky. I really did. And love really does always happen when you're least expecting it. It wasn't until I settled with myself, until I said 'you're fine without a boy', is when I got that first email from him (yes, email...it's a long story). It truly taught me that you must be happy with yourself in order to find happiness with another person. If you feel like you're never going to fall in love, fall in love with yourself first. I know it sounds cheesy, but I promise you it will make a difference.

Though I know this was very different, I really hope you enjoyed this post. I'd love to talk about relationships more, so let me know if you'd be interested in that too. And, of course, a GINORMOUS thank you to Benjamin for photographing us in the bitter cold yet making the photos look so unbelievably beautiful. Please check out his work guys, it is truly amazing and will want to make you get married right now (not even kidding). 

Xoxo,

Christie

a cuddly day

This morning I woke up to a cloudy, chilly day and immediately decided in my head that this would be a day of relaxation, warmth, coffee, and getting tiny things done. I wanted to water my plants, clean my room a bit, light some candles, and, of course, start studying for my finals next week. I wanted to be comfy & cute today, I was totally feeling a cardigan and overalls, and I just wanted to show you my cuddly outfit!

I got these amazing overalls & brown Lieutenant hat from Princess Polly. Check out their site linked here and I got a discount code for y'all! Enter CHRISTIE20 and it will give you 20% off at checkout!! Also, in case you wanted to stalk their cute Instagram, I linked that here. 

What do you wear for a cuddly day? I think I'm going to try and go to my favorite café to get some work done after all my little chores are finished. Happy Wednesday!

Xoxo,

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?!

black friday picks

Hi guys! Usually I'm really not one to partake in the Black Friday shenanigans because I never really thought it was worth getting up in the morning and trekking into huge crowds with long lines. I already get nervous with that kind of thing, which is why I always prefer to stay home and relax! But, this year, something has changed...and honestly that's just all the online sales going on because of Black Friday. Aka, I can still do major shopping in the comforts of my bed with my laptop. Forget Cyber Monday, it has literally turned into a weekend-long event and I am definitely not complaining. Here are some of the sales I've been eyeing and taking advantage of, and just some items I've been wanting/getting inspiration from lately!

These are all the places on my list, with links!

• Glossier, 20% off entire purchase + free shipping
• Asos, 30% off + free shipping
• Madewell, 25% off 
• Revolve, up to 65% off
• Reformation, 30% off
• Anthropologie, 30% off
• Zara, 30% off
• Free People, up to 50% off select styles

Also this wasn't sponsored at all, just thought it'd be fun to post about the sales I'm keeping up with this weekend! I went to Anthropologie today and it was amazing. Also Kiehls, not mentioned above, is having an amazing sale ($20 off a $65 purchase) which is actually pretty good since they are expensive so it can definitely be worth it if you decide to splurge. Isn't it crazy this has become a weekend-long event? What sales are you keeping up with?

I'll definitely be posting some more content this week! This past week has been crazy with Thanksgiving and all that, and I've just been focused on being home and spending quality time with my family. It's such an amazing time of year and I love how it's only getting started.

Xoxo,

Christie

thanksgiving outfits

Hi guys! Before this busy yet need-to-unwind weekend, I wanted to put up some Thanksgiving outfit ideas because I know it's a little bit of a struggle finding a classy, family-approved outfit that still looks cute! The rest of this week is going to fly by so I wanted to make sure I got these up before the ideas fluttered from my mind :-)

1. The Romantic

2. The Independent

3. The Creative

I really hope you found this helpful! I definitely don't know what I'm actually wearing but I am going shopping this weekend so I hope to find something new! Will definitely let you know once I do. Love you babes and Happy pre-Thanksgiving! Also, if you want to know where every detail is from, you can go to my Polyvore here!Xoxo,Christie

the beauty of classic gold rings

Hi guys! I wanted to show you the gold rings that are going to be my new staples in my little ring collection. I am a real sucker for just simple bands and not a lot of accessorizing, simple, simple, simple. I guess like the rest of my style hehe! From their new collection, the Alchemy Collection, Marva Atelier features gorgeous, gold rings that are just simple gorgeous.

From left to right: the Valentina - the Cesar - the Ivone

Go to their beautiful site here ❤︎ also, get 15% off when you use the code 'NYCBAMBI15'! Hurry before it's over :-) 

Also, in case you were wondering what I'm wearing in this post...Zara white button up & polka dot scarf, Urban Outfitters sweater

Really hope you guys liked and I will be back soon! Thanks so much for your patience with this crazy week...I'm trying to get final school assignments done before Thanksgiving break (of course all the assignments are due the days we get back) so that is what I've been up to. ❤︎  But I can't wait for the holidays, woo!

Xoxo,

Christie