Weekly Rewind

Weekly Rewind: September 28, 2014

Madewell Offers Complimentary Monogramming

Madewell is currently offering free monogramming on their full-priced leather goods (savings of $10, expires 10/20/2014). If I were to choose I’d have the Paintstripe Transport Tote monogrammed in gold foil. While brown and black are classic leather goods colors, wearing one can sometimes alienate the other. Style wise I’m not a big fan of a black bag with brown shoes and vice versa; however, a leather bag in a neutral yet unique color is a great investment. I currently sport a Coach Metro Tote in burgundy and love never having to worry if it clashes with my outfit. It holds all I need and the demure yet rich color  always gives it a pop. I am loving the olive tone of the Paintstripe Transport Tote though and can definitely see it pairing well with fall outfits.

#BannedBooksWeek: How Scandalous is Your Reading History?

I love that libraries across America celebrate Banned Books Week so I was excited to take this Buzzfeed quiz. Out of 93 of the most frequently banned books I received the following score of  35 out of 93. As an English major I find this number mildly embarrassing – time to start reading some classic banned books! I must say I’m glad that my schools never banned books, because I could have missed out on Judy Blume’s works during my adolescence or The Perks of Being a Wallflower when I was transitioning between high school and college.

How Successful People Deal with Stress

For a lot of people stress can lead to productive motivation. However, for others it can be paralyzing. I appreciate how this LinkedIn article breaks down the simple steps you can take to confront stress and absorb it’s good energy rather the bad.

1. They practice gratitude for what they have.
2. They stay positive.
3. They focus on progress, not perfection.
4. They practice self care.
5. They rely on routines.
6. They keep the big picture in view.

For me, putting these six “tips” together revitalized the tired mantra, “Look at the bigger picture.” The first five give you a new angle to create steps to achieve this big picture, steadying motivation.

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Weekly Rewind

Weekly Rewind: September 19, 2014

For all the time I spend perusing the internet throughout the week – during my lunch break, on my commute, while lounging on the couch, etc. – I decided a “weekly rewind” of sorts would be beneficial in keeping track of what tickles my fancy.  The following articles, videos, or updates either struck me as funny, inspiring, or provocative and I’m hoping this feature helps me bookmark what I’ve found useful during my countless hours of internet wandering.

Photo credit: Refinery 29

5 Painless Ways to Save Your Paycheck

I’m lucky that my bank has an online program to help me monitor my spending and set goals for certain types of purchases.  Ideally I’d like to limit my spending to $600 a month.  This total includes work-related costs (Metro fares) as well as utilities (internet and electricity).  Monitoring my spending helps me refrain from impulse buys and peer-pressured dining.  Most of the time I go out to eat at a restaurant because my friends are when I’d be just fine with a home cooked meal in my own apartment (made with food on which I have already spent money). However, this doesn’t mean I have to refrain completely from monetized socializing.  Instead I set a budget for dining and entertainment within this $600 so I can go to a concert or an adventurous dinner. I might not always stay within my month budget goals, but because I remain diligent the variance is thankfully low.

Photo credit: Nylon via Paramount Pictures

Men, Women & Children Trailer

Usually movie trailers give the entire plot away in two minutes, but this MWC trailer is so mysteriously poignant I honestly have no idea what’s going on. Last month I came across the teaser trailer which featured text bubbles instead of dialogue, as the film’s marketed as a commentary on the internet generation. This is a great example of quality, enticing film trailer composition. I get the gist of the film and yet I’m so confused by the intertwined story lines. On October 1 I’ll surely be searching out this film in theaters.

Photo credit: Apartment Therapy

Joey’s “Cozy Modern Vintage” Room

I love the vivacious coziness of this room. Personally, I’d rather see this decor on a larger room. However, I appreciate the welcoming color palette and assorted decorations, which range from mini-potted plants to framed inspirational posters. I also adore the gallery and map walls.  This room is bursting with inspiration and oozes creativity.

Autumn at Anthropologie

Anthropologie Fall Must-Haves

Did you know the first official day of autumn this year falls on September 23?  That means it’s time to refresh and update our fall wardrobes. This fall I’m hunting for cozy and versatile pieces to help me get more use out of what’s already housed in my closet. I’m also looking for pieces I can spin into outfits for office work-wear, casual Fridays, special events, and weekend brunches. Thankfully Anthropologie is a one-stop shop for this kind of wardrobe. If you’ve ever looked at a piece and wondered, “This is cute but how can I wear it?” or, “How will it fit into my current wardrobe?” then these tips might help you be a more decisive and strategic shopper.

Scalloped Cocoon Cardigan

Since high school I’ve nurtured a mild obsession with cardigans. Whether it’s to cozy up during fall or winter, or to add some conservatism to a dress, a cardigan is always my secret “outfit weapon.” I prefer cardigans in neutral tones (white, tan, black, or gray) for their versatility so I can get more wear out of the piece. That’s why this Scalloped Cocoon Cardigan is a stand-out winner in my book. The cocoon style allows you to cross it over in the front for warmth without the sometimes awkward pulls of a button closure. However, as a petite woman, I’ve noticed that longer cardigans can tend to pull on my bottom and create an unwanted bubble effect on my backside. That’s why I’m digging the split back of this scalloped cardigan. It’s perfect for a t-shirt and jeans outfit on the weekend, but is ready to warm up your sleeveless shift dress during the workweek. Of note: because of this sweater features an acrylic-wool blend and a cocoon shape it’s important to store this heavier sweater folded on a shelf or in a drawer since hangers could create unsightly pulls at the shoulders.