Friday, May 30, 2014

Outfit: All Talk

 
     I've been staring at my computer screen, struggling over what I could possibly say in this post. Sure, I could tell you something about what I'm wearing. This is my regularly scheduled "outfit" post, anyways. Something like, "I've been living in this skirt and t-shirt combo all week." It's probably fitting. But, I'd instead like to talk about Rags and Roses in general. I've recently received some negative feedback/confusion over why I write this blog, and I feel it needs some attention.
     I started Rags and Roses right after moving back from college. For me, it was a way to focus on something other than working a mundane retail job. I used it more as a place to document snapshots of day trips, and to talk about my interests/life. As I broadened my topics, I struggled to find my niche in the world-wide web, among DIY, fashion, and food blogs because I couldn't really label Rags and Roses as just one of those things. In the simplest terms, Rags and Roses is a lifestyle blog. I share projects, recipes, my personal style, music playlists, and more personal things, too. For me, it's been an awesome experience seeing myself grow up, in a sense; between my attitude on things, my style choices, and the way I approach certain posts. I've loved meeting other bloggers, and learning more about how far these personal blogs can really take a person. Writing this is just something I really love. I don't know how else to say it, really.
     Now let me address the negativity. I've recently received some comments on my weight/appearance, and I find it necessary to give feedback. Yes, I have gained a few pounds since I first began this blog a year or so ago. Mainly because I'm a healthier person than I was then. I've always struggled with body image and anxiety, and college really took a toll on my mental state. I was so stressed and anxious, that it manifested physically. I lost over ten pounds the year that I was away; putting my 5'7 frame at just over 100 lbs. My hair began falling out, and I had crippling panic attacks. The worst part was, that I came to believe the extreme weight-loss was a good thing. My weight would fluctuate, and I'd worry that I was going to gain weight back. I was taking diet pills and, making unhealthy choices about skipping meals. It wasn't a good time in my life. With all that said, I'd like to say that I am much better now. My weight is exactly where it should be, given my height and age. And, I have gotten better at keeping a balance between responsibilities and stress. Sure, I fall apart every once in a while. I have days that I hate certain features of my body. And, days where I am drastically effected by anxiety. Days where I feel very hopeless and upset and struggle to get myself out of bed. But, ultimately, I know that I am a healthier version of myself now. 
     Body image is a very serious issue, and I want it to be known that Rags and Roses is not a place for negativity on that matter and matters like it. The world is already a war-zone, where people are forced to constantly defend and justify themselves. And, I'm not going to do that here. 
Most truly yours,
Heather

P.S.-Don't forget to check out the latest edition of KOH Magazine. You can click the link in the sidebar to catch up!

Outfit Details:
T-shirt- Kevin Devine merch (from the concert I went to a couple weeks ago!)
Skirt- Target
Boots- Thrifted
Bag- American Eagle Outfitters(found at TJ Maxx)

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

My Vegas Style Challenge

Today, I am excited to show you my looks for the Las Vegas Style Challenge. I received a message from Jennifer Whitehair, the content director for Vegas.com, with an amazing offer to style looks using the Aria Resort and Casino as inspiration. Upon looking at the resort's website, I was really impressed by all that it has to offer; cafes, nightclubs, shopping, pools and spas. It definitely has me dreaming of ditching Ohio for a bit. The goal for styling was to showcase how one's looks might transition throughout the day, be it a casual lunch to a day window shopping, or a night out on the town. Here are my picks!
 
Shop comfortably in flowy chiffon and patterned loafers. Give your look a Vegas-spin with a bralette and trendy fringed bag.
 
Dress up a lunch date with a floral maxi. Use bold sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats to add a luxury vibe.
 
Spend your night out in true Vegas style with a metallic dress and bold jewelry. Trade out painful pumps for an ankle boot to add comfort and an edge to your outfit.


I'd like to thank Jennifer again for inviting me to participate in such a fun project, and giving me a big case on wanderlust!
Until next time,
Heather

Friday, May 23, 2014

Outfit: Tried and True

 
There are some wardrobe pieces that become go-to items. Ya know, your fall-back every time you have no idea what to wear? For me, it's this dress. I love how versatile it is; the shape and print make it pretty casual, and easy to wear throughout the seasons. I'm actually a little embarrassed at how often I have this old, faithful dress on.  In fact, you can see the other ways I've styled it here, here, and here. Oops.
Alright, enough about clothes. Although, this is an outfit post; what did ya expect? No, really. This weekend is sure to be a good one, as my sister is coming into town and I actually have a Saturday off. That literally never happens without a request from yours truly. I plan on taking a run, making some food for Rags and Roses, and trying to see Palo Alto. I've been swooning over the trailer since it dropped, and I just can't wait any longer. When I say "James", you say "Franco". JAMES.
Have an awesome weekend, folks.
-Heather

Outfit Details:
Dress- Thrifted
Jacket- Target (thrifted)
Boots- T.J Maxx
Bag- Target

Wednesday, May 21, 2014

Kendra's Miami Fashion Challenge

     Today, I am thrilled to be participating in "Kendra's Miami Fashion Challenge". Kendra Thornton is a well-known travel expert, who has been featured on several news channels and shows, including Tyra Banks and Nate Berkus. I was so stoked to receive a a message from Kendra herself explaining this vacation style challenge:
     "As a mother of three, I think I'm pretty fashionable, but when my husband and I started planning a romantic getaway to Miami, I began rethinking my vacation fashion. Everyone in Miami could be right out of a fashion magazine, and while I think I'm trendy, I know I could use some help. I'm so excited for this trip to Miami because we are in desperate need of some time away to just have fun and live life a little bit. It's also special because my husband surprised me with a few gifts for our trip. As part of this getaway, I would love it if you could help me select a few outfits for my trip in Miami.
We are headed to the Delano South Beach Hotel. This was one of the most exquisite hotels to stay. We found it ranked #1 by users on the social media website gogobot. It's very posh inside and out, and it's located right on the beach. Everything that you need to do in Miami is within three miles. There are so many little cafes, bars, boutique shops and lots of art galleries. I can't wait to walk down boardwalk! I would love for a few casual outfits to head to the beach with and something transforming that I can wear from the spa to the beach to walking around South Beach during the day. At least one dressy outfit would be amazing!  I definitely want to go dancing with my husband and feel absolutely fantastic in a dress and heels. I want to thank you very much for helping me find a marvelous outfit for Miami."
               Kendra, I hope the looks below offer all the inspo you'll need for your romantic getaway!
 
Beachy and Breezy: A sheer white dress over a killer bikini, dressed up with printed bags, sunnies, and an over-sized hat.
 
Cool and Casual: Printed shorts or a flowy maxi, paired with simple jewelry and practical accessories. Perfect for a day of shopping or exploring!
A Night Out: Shine bright in a sequin top, bold jewelry, and classic black heels. Add pops of color with your bag and lip color for a fun and trendy twist!

I'd like to thank Kendra again for allowing me to take part in such a fun project! You can find out more about the travel  expert and fashionista on her social media sites: Twitter and Facebook.
-Heather

Monday, May 19, 2014

Lazy Sunday

 
This weekend went by way too quickly. My adventures first started with a road trip to Cincinnati to see Manchester Orchestra and Kevin Devine with  my dear friend, Laura; which unfortunately is not documented due to my not knowing the venue's camera policies. The bands killed it, especially Mr. Devine. Please get to know this dood if you haven't already. After the show, Laura and I headed to my sister's apartment (that she so graciously let us stay at even though she too was out of town) to begin a wild night of watching "Mermaids: The Body Found"; because I WANT TO BELIEVE, and because we like to party. I can't tell you how nice it was having a a couple days in a new place, but I did have something wonderful to come home to. Andy and I took advantage of the chilly weather that I love so much, and took a long walk before dinner.
I'm currently fighting sleep, and the reality of having to be back to work in the morning. Ugh. I hope all of you had fantastic weekends!
-Heather

Sunday, May 11, 2014

Styling Blunt Bangs

I got a new haircut, and I'm kind of obsessed. I've had bangs before, but was always very bad at styling/maintaining them. Probably because they were never cut well; I have a history with bad haircuts because of my ultra-cheap nature. So, I'd just push them over to the side, and forget about them until they grew out. But, this time around, I think I finally got the luck of a cut well-done, and the hang of keeping my bangs styled. I've even found new ways to show the cut off that have gotten me out of my eternal wavy-haired rut. Here's the scoop!
Sleek and straight.
 
Tousled waves.
Messy, maiden braid/parted down the middle. It's been one of my favorite ways to wear my hair, and I'm having a lot of fun trying different parts. This one is very "Alexa Chung- inspired".
Top knot.
And, because I have to keep the option, pushed over for days I wear my hats.
These are the products that I've found help the most with my new cut: sea salt spray, anti-humidity hair spray, dry shampoo, and my trusty flat iron and curling iron. I hope this inspires you to give your locks some love.
Happy Monday!
-Heather

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