The year that counts!

Can't promise that I'll start updating my blog more often this year, but as usual, I do have my annual resolutions post for you RIGHT NOW!

On January 1, I officially celebrated my four year anniversary of living and working in our nation's capital. Looking back, all four years have been a mixture of learning and growing...and quite a bit of fun too! While there have been trials and at times painful lessons, God has always been there--ready and waiting to draw me closer to His heart. It's taken some recent circumstances and reflection to let Him do that too. 

When I look back on 2014, there were several areas in which God noticeably worked in my life, convicted me and really called me to make my faith my own and live for Him. Lately, that passage in John 15 keeps coming up in either my reading of Scripture, conversations with friends, songs on my Pandora or sermons at church. That's not coincidence; it's the Holy Spirit working. 

In John 15:5, Jesus proclaimed, "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me." I think that verse sums up my year in a lot of ways. It seems that 2014 was a "pruning" year that required right (but also difficult) obedience in my heart--willingness to let God shape me into the person He created me to be, choose to seek Him alone and walk with faith along His narrow road.

I have to say that I'm looking forward to the promise of a new year, and I hope that it is one that brings honor and glory to Christ. Whenever I start a new year and formulate goals, I always notice an overarching theme. For 2015, it's "the year that counts." 

Here are the ways I want to make that theme a reality:

1) Take better care of myself

Physically

- Exercise at least once per week (small but achievable goal)

- Get more sleep (realize its value)

- Eat better (plan healthy meals)

Spiritually

- Read the Bible daily (just started this year-long reading plan)

- Pray more often (alone and with others)

- Build stronger friendships with other believers (seek out fellowship within the body of Christ)

Socially

- Intentionally spend time with people who challenge me spiritually and intellectually

- Get out and about weekly (allow myself to have more fun)

2) Save more money

- Eat at home more than I eat out (much easier said than done)

- Live by a budget

- Invest 

I truly believe that God has something special planned for the year ahead, and I intend to intentionally seek Him so that I don't miss out on His part for me in it. 

-Sarah

"From the first to the last breath I breathe, the Lord watches over me. You hear my cry and You know every need. The Lord watches over me."

Chapter Four

2014 Mission Statement: Posted above my desk at work

This post is long overdue, and I've entitled it "Chapter Four" because this year marks the beginning of my fourth in DC. If you remember, just a little over 3 years ago, I packed my bags (just 3 in fact), boarded a plane and moved to a city I'd never even visited. I'm happy to report that this place is still exactly where I'm supposed to be.

I had so many wonderful plans for my blog last year, but God clearly had some very different, albeit wonderful, things in store for me. Truly, He opened up some doors that I could've never foreseen, and I'll continue to praise Him for His faithfulness.

While I'd like to be more regular at documenting my life and providing fashionable conversation here, I'm not going to count it as failure if I don't. Life is lived outside of the interwebs after all.

But what is a new year without resolutions?

As usual, this year I have plenty of goals, including specific categories with separate lists, sub-points and sometimes sub-sub-points. That's just who I am: a listmaker.

But, everything that's in my "2014 Success Plan" goes back to one overarching, all-encompassing theme, thesis, determination, mission statement...whatever you want to call it.

I want to invest in people and learn from people. 

I've always been a "people person," and that's because I believe people are valuable. They are worth impacting, deserving of love, kindness, investment and friendship. People also have a wealth of knowledge in areas that I don't because, even with similarities, everyone's life is different. I want to make sure I'm learning from people just as others are hopefully able to learn from me.

So how do I want to measure success this year? Through the people God puts along my path, allows me to influence and learn from.

-Sarah

Dressing Up for Sunday Brunch

Everyone loves a good brunch with friends, but for Washingtonians, it's a weekly occurrence. After a long hard work week, a Sunday brunch is just what you need to cap off a great weekend of social affairs. Whether you're going to a nearby restaurant after church, inviting friends over for a home cooked meal, or having a potluck with too many delicious foods to choose from, don't forget about your outfit!

There's practically nothing more appropriate for the occasion than a girly, floral dress. Find a great pair of sweater tights (it's still winter after all) and pull out your favorite detailed cardi (everyone should have one already). Put a lovely vintage locket around your neck and wear a pair of oxfords or cute flats. A statement clutch is all you need to make your brunch look a hit!

Get the Look:
1) Dress by Nadinoo - $168 - Anthropologie; 2) Sweater Tights by HUE - $20 - Bare Necessities; 3) Beaded Cardi - $70 - Topshop; 4) Oxfords (in olive) - $69.95 - DSW; 5) Jane Austen's Emma Clutch - $325 - Kate Spade; 6) Vintage Locket - $35 - vgvintage

As an added bonus, I wanted to share a recipe for French Toast that I cooked for all my friends a few weeks ago when we had brunch. My mom made it for my family on Christmas morning, and I've already had another friend snag the recipe for his recent brunch, so it's taste-tested and approved with flying colors. Enjoy!

FRENCH TOAST
1 one-pound loaf French bread, cut diagonally in 3/4- to 1-inch slices
6 eggs
2 cups milk
1 1/2 cups half and half cream
2 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (use up to 1 tsp if you'd like)
3/4 cup butter
1 1/3 cups brown sugar
3 tbsp light corn syrup or pancake syrup

Directions: Grease a 9X13-inch baking dish. Arrange the slices of bread in the bottom. In a large bowl, beat together eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, and cinnamon. Pour over bread slices, cover, and refrigerate overnight.

The next morning, preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup; heat until bubbling. Pour over bread and egg mixture. Bake in preheated oven, uncovered, for 40 minutes. Serves 12.

Happy brunching!

xoxo,
Sarah

P.S. A quick note on the dress I chose for the look, it was designed by Nadia Izruna of Nadinoo. She's an independent designer based in London, and I had the honor of interviewing her a few years back for Dedicated Follower of Fashion and then again for N.E.E.T. Magazine. She was still getting her start and gaining notoriety back then, so I actually screamed when I saw her designs in Anthropologie. I always thought Nadinoo would fit in there, so it's wonderful to see the brand in stores! 

What I Wore: Inauguration Weekend

Inauguration has come and gone, and it was a full weekend of fancy events and fabulous memories. I wanted to share some of fun here. Enjoy!

State Society Gala - Saturday night
There's nothing like the bond with friends from your own state when you no longer live there. In transient DC, state societies are a great way to make fast, lasting friends. Some of my dearest friends in Washington, DC, have been from my home state. I guess we're just drawn to each other.

Our State Society was my favorite event in the getting ready department. I was absolutely in love with my dress, and everything else end up coming together perfectly. I had my hair blown out by Drybar in Georgetown and will forever be a customer. They were pretty behind on all their appointments that day (no surprises since it was Inauguration weekend), and it took quite a while to get me in even with an appointment. When my blowout was complete and beautiful, I went to pay, and they told me it was on them because of my wait. I wasn't expecting it at all, but I do love good customer service. They've got it down.

What I Wore:
Cinderella blue cocktail dress - Adrianna Papell
Sequin clutch - Marshall's
Silver heels - DSW
Floral drop earrings - Forever21

What Katie Wore:
Black cocktail dress - Nicole Miller
Statement necklace - Stella & Dot

What Chelsea Wore: 
Black floor length dress - David's Bridal
Chandelier earrings - her mom's store

The Ceremony - Monday morning
I had a really wonderful seat for the ceremony and could see the President as he gave his Inaugural address! Having the opportunity to observe this historic occasion was worth the cold weather and early morning wake-up call. 
 

Agriculture Inaugural Grand Ball - Monday night
This was the last of Inaugural events that I attended, and I had a great time dressing up. I was a little tired after the long morning watching the actual ceremony, but after a quick nap and sleeping too long, I was ready to get fancy again--complete with fake eyelashes and bright red lipstick. Chelsea Girl (aka, best friend) and I snapped a few fun photos! 

What I Wore:

Black floor length dress - Jil Sander

Statement necklace - Accessorize

What Chelsea Wore:

Blue Grecian-like dress - borrowed from a friend

Necklace - her mom's store

Doesn't Chels look like Marilyn Monroe in the second to last photo? Usually, I'm told that I channel  Zooey Deschanel, so I guess we both just look like movie stars. Fine with me.

It's certainly been an unforgettable past few days, more memories made that I'll treasure forever!

xoxo,

Sarah

Inauguration Ready: The Ceremony

Like the Olympics, the Presidential Inauguration only comes once every four years. Come Monday, it will be that time again, and I am very much looking forward to it. Politics aside, this is a historic occasion worth experiencing, especially if, like me, you happen to live in the same city as the President of the United States.

The entire city practically shuts down and security is even tighter than usual for the swearing-in of the country's highest leader. Thousands of visitors from all over the country and world journey to Capitol Hill and gather along the National Mall to watch. It's usually cold and wet, with the threat of snow likely at any moment, but that has never stopped anyone from participating.

The key things to remember when dressing appropriately and fashionably is layering, layering, layering. Find a warm wool sweater (turtlenecks keep cold wind out) and some kind of long-sleeve undershirt for your base. Throw on some leggings under your favorite skinny corduroys. Invest in a comfortable pair of leather boots; flats are best, as you'll be doing a LOT of walking and standing. Buy a pair of earmuffs or a cute knit beret to keep your ears warm and bring some fun bright-colored gloves for those fingers. But most importantly, make sure your coat is classy, fits well, and has some sort of interesting detail (like the bows above). Top it all off with a pair of binoculars around your neck!

Get the Look: Coat - $132 - ASOS
1) Turtleneck sweater by J. Crew - $85 - Net-A-Porter; 2) Skinny cords - $122 - Stylebop; 3) Leather boots by Frye (in spice) - $325 - Zappo's; 4) Fur earmuffs - $28 - SimplyFurs; 5) Mini cross body bag by Tusk - $182 - Amazon; 6) Yellow knit gloves - $18 - Banana Republic; 7) Vintage binoculars - $34.95 - arcadecache

xoxo,

Sarah

Inauguration Ready: Grand Ball

While I might not attend a full-blown inaugural ball this weekend, there are plenty of events that absolutely warrant a beautiful gown. If money were no object, I would love to wear the gorgeous combination above. The moment I saw that dress, I knew it was made for a 20-something Washingtonian like myself. What more could I ask for? Vibrant color that is sure to make my eyes pop, accordion pleated skirt that references the 70s, deep yet elegant neckline that begs for a long, icey necklace... Combine all those things with a loose low bun or knot (especially if you have long hair like me), as not to cover up the front or back of the dress, and this dress is ready to be showcased!

It certainly might not be the usual choice for a ball gown, but its flowy elegance would make any girl a standout at the ball. Besides, wouldn't you rather wear something a little unexpected and be the one everyone is talking about?

Get the Look: Pleated gown by Halston Heritage - $495 - Neiman Marcus
1) Vintage evening cape - $60 - 75Studios; 2) Beaded clutch - $126 - Nordstrom; 3) Eyeshadow palette by Shiseido (Snow Shadow) - $33 - Sephora; 4) Geneve lace necklace - $98 - Stella & Dot; 5) Geneve lace earrings - $44 - Stella & Dot; 6) Geneve lace ring - $49 - Stella & Dot; 7) Sparkly silver pumps - $280 - BHLDN

xoxo,
Sarah

Inauguration Ready: Cocktail Gala

It's an exciting week here in our nation's capital! There is much anticipation and preparation happening for the fancy inaugural events that will be taking place in less than a week. Not surprisingly, I am incredibly excited about these events, not just because it's historic and only happens every four years. Like any stylish, fashion-obsessed girl, inaugural parties can only mean one thing: an opportunity to dress up and probably (and when I say "probably," I mean "absolutely") buy a new dress or two.

As I prepare my inaugural wardrobe, I decided it would be fun to have a short series and let you in on what I might be wearing as I participate in history.

First on the list, I will be attending a fabulous inaugural gala (cocktail attire) this Saturday, and while I haven't landed the perfect dress yet, I dream of something just as elegant as the dress above. Lately, I have been drawn to light-colored slip dresses with a darker lace or sequin overlay. These dresses are everywhere, so you're certain to find one that fits your style. Don't forget to finish off your look with bright red lipstick!

Get the Look: Dress by Sue Wong - $488 - Nordstrom
1) Black fur coat - $840 - Farfetch; 2) Gold silk pumps - $260 - BHLDN; 3) Teardrop earrings - $16 - Accessorize; 4) Clutch - $278 - Kate Spade; 5) Lipstick by NARS (in orange red) - $24 - Sephora

xoxo,
Sarah

Highs-and-Lows

I grabbed this little dress off the clearance rack at Nordstrom Rack about a year ago, and what do you know...high-low skirts are everywhere now! I remember something similar happening when I found my favorite accordion pleated skirt (before the trend hit hard) off the clearance rack at Urban thinking, "Hmmm, that's new, haven't seen it on anyone lately. I like it. I will try it."

It's a great dress, definitely worth the $10 (I think) that it cost me. I love the way the fabric flows when the wind catches because it feels like a cape flying behind me.

In other news, I was noticing how "monstrous" my calves have gotten since I moved out here. Since I opted out of having a car for the first few years, I knew walking would become a huge part of my life. I would say that I easily achieve between 22-25 miles on foot each week simply commuting places. Needless to say, I have muscular legs.

My hair has also lightened up quite a bit on its own here. This is probably due to so much sun exposure (back to the fact that I walk EVERYWHERE) and the quality of water (sometimes I feel like it smells of chlorine). Either way, my hair is turning to a pretty color, and I have a natural ombre since long hair fades.

I love my city. There are always places to go, people to meet, and new memories to be made. I have enjoyed it thoroughly, making the MOST of every opportunity. These are years that I will remember for the rest of my life. Of course, I still have my share of sad, indifferent, and "life-is-not-fair" moments, but those times have made me stronger and equipped me for the future. Life is a constant learning experience if you allow it to be.

It's been especially fun having my little sister here with me this summer. She is truly one of my best friends, and it is going to be weird having a room to myself again when she heads back to the homeland.

The girls with the bangs. Some people think we're twins.

What I Wore:
Dress with High-Low Skirt - Nordstrom Rack
Vintage Belt - my grandma's closet (where I get all my best accessories)
Necklace - gift from Daddy
Wedges - TJ Maxx
Purse - Kate Spade

What Mary Wore:
Floral Dress - Nordstrom Rack (I have the same dress in gray)
Sandals - H&M
Red Purse - The Icing

xoxo,
Sarah

A Lovely Sunday

Sunday is quickly becoming my favorite day of the week, especially since I have my sister here with me. We start the day with church, followed by brunch and a quick adventure somewhere around the city (farmer's market, cute shops, or touristy stuff--hey, I'm still new-ish here, so no shame). After our runnings-around, we come back to relax, and I nap. It really gets me charged up for the week ahead.

Here are some pictures from this week's edition of Sunday.

Brunch. They had already cleared the table at this point, but it was AMAZING.

As my mentor told me, this is me looking "city-fied."

I love my new Kate Spade!

The hairstyle that keeps me cool. Plus, it's super easy to do. Tutorial coming in the near future.

Walking down the street.

Mary laughing with the Capitol.

We found orchids.

Botanic Garden.

About to call it a day at this point. The summer heat was getting to us!

What I Wore:

Floral Dress - Nordstrom Rack

Earrings - H&M Germany (when I visited there 6 years ago!)

Snakeskin Flats - Steve Madden (c/o TJ Maxx)

Purse - Kate Spade (my NEW one!)

Sunglasses - Kate Spade (c/o Nordstrom Rack)

What Mary Wore:

Geometric Print Dress - Hurley (I gave it to her!)

Sandals - H&M

Red Purse - The Icing

Sunglasses - Burlington Coat Factory

xoxo,

Sarah

Chevrons & Accordion Pleats

Time for another outfit post! I absolutely love this outfit; it just came together so well. I found this dress at a local boutique back home while I was visiting during Christmas. The minute I spotted it, I knew it was for me. Why? Well, I adore accordion pleats and chevrons, and blue really makes my eyes pop (*insert winky face here*). Perfect fit, right?

I noticed the other day that I hadn't worn it yet, and that was just wrong. Lately, I've been realizing that it's important to wear everything in your closet before buying new clothes. I'm a little embarrassed to say that I have too many lovely items hanging in my closet that still have tags.

Other things happening lately, I have a summer roommate, and she is none other than my sweet and stylish little sister! Okay, let me correct myself and say "younger sister," as she hates being called little. I really don't get why, but I'm not the little (uh younger) sister in this equation. We've always been really close, so I love showing her my new life in this amazing city.

In addition, I feel like she's getting me out of my usual routine (in a good way) by discovering all kinds of new, fun things to do. I'm always hanging out with people, but sometimes we get stuck doing the same types of things and don't really experience everything our city holds.

Last weekend, my sister and I went to a record fair. There were vendors from all over selling vinyls, vintage clothing, and original artwork. Back home, we used to do stuff like this all the time, but I guess I just don't know as many hipsters now.

All that to say, we're enjoying ourselves. It's cool having another girl with bangs around.

What I Wore
Dress - Lucca Clothing
Ballet Flats with Ribbon - Urban Outfitters
Earrings - H&M London (little sister got them for me years ago!)
Sunglasses - Kate Spade (c/o Nordstrom Rack)
Red Vintage Purse - thrift store back home


What Mary Wore
Teal Button Up - Old Navy
Polka Dot Pencil Skirt - Forever 21
Strappy Sandals - H&M
Sunglasses - Burlington Coat Factory
Red Purse - The Icing

Stay tuned for more fabulous-ness from us!

xoxo,
Sarah