Contemplating 2020 in LIVI Active by Lane Bryant

LIVI Cowl-Neck Pullover: c/o HERE (I am wearing size 14/16)

LIVI 7/8 Power Legging With Wicking: c/o HERE (I am wearing size 14/16)

Photography by A. Robinson

This post is sponsored by Lane Bryant. 

-->LIVI Active is currently on MAJOR sale!!!<--

All opinions given are my own.

Hey Loves! I'm closing out 2020 rocking LIVI Active (exclusively available at Lane Bryant) while contemplating what I've gained during 2020. 

We often hear about the unpleasantries that have occurred throughout this year - it was rough on innumerable levels. 

I decided to create space to hold gratitude for things I have benefited from this year. 

Here are 3 things that made the cut:

1) I gained clarity on what I want for myself going forward. I set new intentions and affirmations to support how I want to exist in the world.

2) I expanded in my understanding of self, and how my inner child resurfaces when triggered.

3) I created more blog content & secured new brand partnerships.

Closely tied to number 3 on my list, I am happy to be working with Lane Bryant for several years in a row now! I was first introduced to the brand while shopping with my grandma SJ when I was a little girl. I could never have imagined that 30+ years later I'd be working with Lane Bryant to host events and style pieces from new collections! I am so thankful for the trajectory of my life. 

I've shared previously (most recently in my post HERE) that LIVI Active is my preferred workout attire because of the excellent fit and quality. This set doubles as casual wear. I wore it for an outdoor workout session on a cool day (so the cowl neck was super useful), and then immediately went to the grocery store to stock up on pantry needs. 

I love that this set offers the benefits of workout attire without looking like workout attire! Have you tried LIVI Active yet? What things are you grateful for?

Until 2021,

Xx

A Personal Review | Never Fully Dressed

Dress: HERE (Gifted)

Photography by A. Robinson

I recently had an opportunity to style this beautiful dress from new-to-me brand, Never Fully Dressed. Have you heard of them? They are based in the UK and opened their first brick & mortar store about five years ago.
NFD shares that its process chain is ethical, they continue to explore the use of more sustainable fabrics, and increasingly they are manufacturing more of their styles in the UK. They currently offer clothing in US sizes 2-22.
What really stands out to me about the brand: They offer modern dresses with a classic twist. Items are versatile, they can be dressed up or down effortlessly. Take for instance this dress. I styled it three different ways. Which look is your favorite? I think my favorite look is the dress styled with the yellow statement earrings & matching sandals.
My experience with NFD thus far: 

• Shipping was a breeze; it took less than one week for my order to arrive.

• The dress is well made. There are no loose threads, seams are properly closed, and the fabric feels great.

• The pattern is stunning, colors are richly pigmented.

I look forward to trying more style options from the NFD (Never Fully Dressed)!!
Here are a few other dresses that I currently have my sights on:

1. Leopard Spot Dress
2. Black Vogue Jumpsuit
3. Black Tiered Mini Dress

Until next time,
Xx

Staying Active in LIVI by Lane Bryant

LIVI Drape-Back Tank With Wicking: c/o HERE (I am wearing size 10/12)
LIVI Active Medium-Impact Cooling No-Wire Sport Bra: c/o HERE (I am wearing a size 36 H)
LIVI 7/8 Power Legging With Wicking - Printed: c/o HERE (I am wearing size 10/12)
Photography by: A. Robinson
This post is sponsored by Lane Bryant.
All opinions given are my own.

As 2020 nears its end, I find myself reflecting on things of value that I've done for myself throughout this year. One endeavor that I feel a measure of gratitude for is making the conscious choice to be physically active several times a week. This choice has come with its share of challenges. However, each day I remind myself why my physical health is important, I give thanks for the gift of life, and I push through. 

I've shared here on the blog several times that I wear LIVI activewear in real life. LOL! What makes this activewear line stand out from others to me is the EXCELLENT craftsmanship coupled with a tailormade fit. I never have to pull at or tug my clothes while I am working out. The material moves with me. I don’t feel constrained, or uncomfortable in any way. Sometimes I wear LIVI Active to take a light walk or a moderate hike. I have no concern about the fabric wearing thin because of chafing or tearing from extended wear. In fact, I find that LIVI keeps me cool, comfortable, and collected no matter what I’m doing.  

Lane Bryant’s LIVI Active plus-size line is available in US sizes 10-48W. You will find a variety of modern prints, colors, cuts, and designs. Have you tried LIVI Active? Check it out today and let me know what you think!

Until next time,

Xx

In Memory of My Grandmother, Sophia Jane

Hat: c/o HERE| Faux fur coat: OLD, similar HERE

Sweater: HERE| Shorts: HERE| Shoes: J. Crew, sold out

Photography by A. Robinson

Sophia Jane transitioned on December 13, 2019. 

ONE YEAR AGO THIS WEEKEND.

She was beautiful in spirit. Strong in form. Determined. Resilient.

She was a listener. She had a great sense of humor. 

SHE WAS MY FRIEND.

Sophia Jane was confident. Ambitious. Generous with her goals.

She was strong. Caring. Wise.

She was a teacher. A comforter. A cheerleader.

SHE WAS LOVED.

I give thanks for the memories & experiences I had with Sophia Jane. 

I learned so much from & through her. In her life. In her death.

I would call and talk to her for hours- from the time I was a small girl, well into my 30s.

Sophia Jane was my grandmother. 

SHE IS DEEPLY MISSED.

Sophia Jane, I love you forever! I will continue to make you proud!

XO

3 Tips on Living Consciously

           Hat: HERE| Dress: HERE| Tweed booties: OLD

Photography by A. Robinson

1) Be present, in this moment.

It’s all too easy to get caught up in the hustle & bustle of day-to-day life. Our thoughts are often consumed with what has to be done, what was already done (past), and what we hope will be done (future). Stop for a moment, breathe. Deeply. Inhale for 10 seconds. Exhale for 10 seconds. Give honor to the present moment. Whatever it presents. If  & when possible – avoid resisting the present. Be at peace with every moment, as if you chose it.

2) Spend time in/with nature.

Let your feet touch the earth. Sunbathe. Listen to the birds. Examine the trees. Watch the sun rise or set.  I went through a pretty rough spell for an extended period of time. Throughout, I made a personal commitment to myself to go to the beach every single day – no matter how I felt. I let my feet sit in the sand, I watched the waves come in, dolphins swimming by, birds singing and dancing in the sky. I journaled, I read, I meditated, I prayed. I healed.

3) Develop a healthy case of IDGAF Syndrome.

Stop giving a fuck about what other people think! This is your life. It is a gift. Live it fully.

What does IDGAF stand for? 

"I don’t give a fuck" 🤷🏾‍♀️

Until next time,

Xx

3 Things I Leaned Into During the Pandemic

 

Hat: Try HERE| Top: Similar styles HERE & HERE

Camo joggers: HERE| Shoes: Try HERE

Photography by A. Robinson

1) Focus on what you have versus what you don't.

Gratitude has been a staple for me throughout everything that has happened this year. I try to focus on the things that are within my limited control. I regularly give thanks for what I have, even seemingly simple things – such as the fact that I woke up this morning (many people across the world did not), I have enough food to eat, and I have a means of living. With the pandemic came a forced slowdown, there have been shutdowns of varying degrees throughout. I continue to take the opportunity to peer into my life, to reevaluate it as a whole. Whatever happens from here on out, I’m thankful that I have no regrets. My life has been full and satisfying.

2) A schedule is helpful, but there will be times when you cannot stick to it - that is OK.

At the onset of the pandemic, I began working from home versus at my corporate office, like millions of others. It took time for me to adjust to the new routine of things, but soon I found myself on a schedule that worked for me. I notice that my days are more enjoyable when I stick to a schedule. It promotes a sense of normalcy despite indescribable trying times. However, there are days when I simply cannot handle the rigidity of a schedule. I need regular breaks and diversions. I make allowances for that. I listen to my body. I release guilt. I am navigating the unimaginable as best as I can in any given moment. Some days will be better than others, and that is OK.

3) We are all connected.

Everything that I’ve mentioned thus far is nothing new. However, my appreciation for these truths has deepened considerably. I’ve always known that we are all are intricately interconnected. However, a highly contagious virus has underscored this fact tremendously. By simply wearing a face mask that covers your nose and mouth – by regularly washing your hands – you literally save lives. 

It's your turn! What things have you developed a deeper appreciation for during the pandemic?

Until next time,

Xx

Fall into Denim with Lane Bryant

Striped Button-Front Tie-Front Top: c/o HERE

Signature Fit High-Rise Skinny Jean - Light Wash With Seam: c/o HERE

Ankle Strap Heel - Snake Skin Print: c/o HERE

Photography by A. Robinson

This post is sponsored by Lane Bryant. All opinions are my own.

Fall is officially nine days away. Around this time each year, I find myself switching out traditional summer bottoms for denim. Finding great fitting denim pants can be a challenge. I was excited when Lane Bryant reached out to me to try a pair of denim pants from their latest collection. I selected this pair of Signature Fit skinny jeans because in my mind skinny jeans will never go out of style. They look PHENOMENAL on curves! Plus, I LOVE the seam detailing on this pair. Of particular interest to me was the Flex Magic Waistband, which features a no-gap, stretch waistband that moves with you for all-day comfort. My waist size is significantly smaller than my hip size, having a waistband that actually fits is imperative! The jeans that I am wearing in this post are size 12, Babes the fit is AH-MAZING!!! There is just the right amount stretch to make moving around with ease effortless AND the jeans hug your curves 😍. I styled my jeans with a Striped Button-Front Tie-Front Top that can be worn during the day or night as shown here. The look is finished off with Snake Skin Print Sandals - which seriously go with EVERYTHING!
Over to you Babes, have you tried out Lane Bryant's Jeans Guide? If so, what do you think?!

Until next time,

Xx

Get Active in LIVI by Lane Bryant

LIVI Active Medium-Impact Cooling No-Wire Sport Bra: c/o HERE (I am wearing size 36 H)

LIVI Power Legging With Smoothing Control Tech: c/o HERE (I am wearing size 10/12)

Photography by A. Robinson

This post is sponsored by Lane Bryant. 
All opinions given are my own.

Today's post features two pieces from Lane Bryant's current LIVI Active Collection! What I love about the LIVI Active Medium-Impact Cooling No-Wire Sport Bra is the amazing support that it offers 😍 I literally wear it at least every other day for my a.m. workouts, it keeps my girls intact and cool! I pair it with the LIVI Power Legging which features excellent craftsmanship and a breathable blend of soft cotton and stretchy spandex. Both pieces pair well together and have superb functionality. 
In this age of COVID-19 plus working from home, I decided it was time for me to get serious about becoming more active. My goal is not to lose weight, but to improve my overall health. Exercise not only improves your immune system, but it also improves your body's ability to resist infections. It strengthens your bones and important muscles that you breathe with, which include your heart muscles.
Do share- what are you doing to boost your immune system?!
Until next time - stay safe Babes!
Xx

Finishing Touches

Heart sunnies: Similar HERE| Earrings: Sold out, try  these HERE
Camo shirtdress: HERE + other options HERE, HERE, HERE 
Leopard Sandals: Similar HERE| Knee-high boots: Similar HERE

Photography by A. Robinson

Today's style story features my take on a camo shirtdress styled for transitional wear - from summer to fall. September usually signals the alarm for fall fashion, but sometimes temperatures don't quite match up 😀. I opted to style this shirtdress off the shoulders, although it was designed to be worn on the shoulders. Additionally, I styled it with both leopard print sandals and black knee-high boots. How you choose to style pieces in your wardrobe all depends on your personal preferences and needs! If it is warm out, I want this dress to be off my shoulders and paired with sandals. If it is a cooler evening but still sunny, I still want my shoulders out, however, I might add in a knee-high boot - plus a floor-length scarf 😉
Over to you! How would you style this camo dress? The possibilities truly are limitless!
Until next time,
Xx

Stylish Coverage

Sunnies: Nordstrom, old| Earrings: Nordstrom, old
Dress: Sold out, other options HERE, HERE, and HERE
Suede mules: ZARA

Photography by A. Robinson

Happy SEPTEMBER!!! It is undisputed that this has been a year for the record books in almost every single way imaginable. However, amongst everything that has/is transpiring - time still feels like it is moving rapidly. We have now entered the final four months of 2020!!! I find myself wondering - where does the time go?! Beyond that, I find myself in a space of personal reflection. This is my birth month, just as I have in years prior, I am reexamining my footing in the world. 
Questions that I am actively asking myself include: Am I living my purpose? What am I learning from my life experiences? What would I like to accomplish moving forward?  Am I living with intention? What are some areas that I would like to improve in? 
There are more questions than there are answers! Nonetheless, one thing is for certain: I am thankful to see another day!
Until next time,
Xx