So this has turned out to be QUITE the late post. Basically, my computer is a jerk and decided to go berserk (heh, look, I rhyme!) right before I submitted my post yesterday. Really, Windows? You fail me sometimes.
I decided to treat myself recently, just because, and I bought all kinds of clothes. Oops?
Let it be known that I’m the absolute worst at saving on a budget, even with the daunting student loan payments breathing down my neck. Regardless, I ended up with some versatile pieces to mix and match. I’m a little shorthanded on the fall/winter attire, so I like to consider my recent splurge…erm, purchase, an investment. Yeah?
Things I live for in the chilly months: 1) Cozy scarves, 2) ALL kinds of pants, 3) Colored tights (I have almost every color under the sky), and 4) a durable pair of boots. I found these kick ass floral print jeans from Target. There’s an Instagram dedicated to great finds on Target, and I was tempted to submit. But, as Bukowski said, “My ambition is handicapped by my laziness.” (Truer words, man. This phrase applies to many aspects of my life.)
I’ve really embraced the semi-clashing patterns look, and I thought this over sized graphic bunny sweater would partner well with these jeans (graphic on graphic–my favorite!). The pants are very loud, but the spurts of black and cream in the sweater really tame the print without making the outfit over-the-top; I’ve been falling in love with more neutral color palettes lately, so I couldn’t resist a more subdued style this time around. I also threw in a lightly distressed, bleached jean jacket up top for some interest and as a nod to the subtle denim theme I’ve set up.
You’ll be seeing a lot more of these boots as the outfit posts roll in. They were only $12, and I’ve worn them every day since.
Since I’ve started blogging more seriously, I’ve noticed this bizarre, stern tone that some big-name magazines and clothing sites and even personal blogs have taken regarding the subject of street style. I can’t stand seeing headlines like “Worst Dressed Celebrities” or “An Utter Fashion Faux-Pas: The Presidential Debate Style Mistakes” or “Worst Dressed Cities in the U.S.”
Fashion isn’t a contest; fashion isn’t a reason to bring others down or to make others feel “less than” for not exacerbating the latest trends. I was always under the impression that personal style was an outlet for self-expression, kind of an art form in itself–something that added vivacity to an otherwise dull existence.
I know that sometimes people look at blogs, I’ve been guilty of this as well, and we say to ourselves “I wish I could effortlessly put together an outfit like so-and-so” or ” I wish my pictures looked like this” or “I wish I were as creative as this person” or “I wish more people read my blog and noticed my unique sense of style.”
But you know what?
All of these blogging celebs had a small start, but their will and creativity got them to where they are today. Recognition comes from hard work, countless hours in front of a camera, intense brainstorming sessions, and trial-and-error in every single aspect. These men and women didn’t spend time comparing themselves with other bloggers out there, and they didn’t wallow in their insecurities or demean their self-worth because they weren’t where they wanted to be yet. These bloggers (hell, anyone who strives at anything, really) set high goals for themselves and executed their ideas in their own ways–in turn, they found contentment. These folks enjoy documenting personal life and coming up with creative projects and putting together cute outfits because it’s their passion. Isn’t that what blogging is all about?
Social media can often feel like this dreadful clique of “who knows who,” and it can sometimes be frustrating to try tactics and they not show immediate results; you feel like you’ve hit a wall. The thing to remember is that you do have something to contribute, you are your own person and an interesting one, at that. You will go far in whatever you are doing because you have a passion, an unceasing drive to see success. Don’t base your success on trivial matters such as how many followers you have on Twitter or how many people read your blog each day or how many people like your Instagram photos; success should be based on what makes you feel fulfilled and happy.
If you’re good at what you do and you especially love what you do, you will get to where you want to be. Just be patient, and don’t be too hard on yourself.
Outfit Details:
Frames – Vintage (no lenses yet, but soon!)
Sweater – Forever 21
Pants – Target
Bag – Urban Outfitters
Jacket – Forever 21
Boots – Exchange Factor (Vintage)
I hope my slight tangent proved inspirational for some of you with similar struggles to myself. I know I’m not perfect, but I know I’ll get where I want to be with time; I’ll divulge more on the steps I’m taking within the next few days. Exciting things are in store!
I’m a dream chaser, and there’s no stopping me.
Love, KiKi
