Macaron Hoarder's Christmas List 2016

My brother texted me a few days ago what I wanted for Christmas.

There was a time when I couldn't have had too many clothes and gift certificates from my favorite stores. Now I struggle to give anyone ideas for what I want, because I feel like I have enough. 

Honestly, the magical disappearance of my student loans and a million frequent flyer miles are the only two things I truly want for Christmas. But if I had to pick a few things for Santa to leave under the tree...

My favorite perfume

I've been using one from Diptyque lately, but Tocca's Florence eau de parfum is my essential go-to.

An inspirational print

French Words on Instagram launched their an online store and I love their A-Z large print. I still need to frame my gold foil world map, but this would complement the modern, romantic traveler vibe in the bedroom. 

Another phone charger

You can never have too many phone chargers. I love how this one from Urban Outfitters is disguised as a simple leather tassel... I just wish more phone chargers came with the outlet plug, which is especially convenient for train rides on Metro North.

Beyond basic earbuds

I've always wanted a pair of FRENDS headphones, but my lifestyle doesn't require huge head gear. Earbuds with unique hardware detail are perfectly adequate for freelancing in peace at the local coffee shop. 

A modern crossbody

Theory came out with the Transformer handbag line—it's easy to customize your look by choosing a leather strap and different pouches made of sheepskin, suede or leather. I'd love to put my employee discount to use and buy this set as a Christmas gift for myself.

Even after compiling this post, I can't think of anything else material that I really want. All I can think of is how I want more time to balance working, traveling and relaxing...

Baby, Pull Me Closer

A personal photoshoot inspired by The Chainsmokers' hit, Closer

If you haven't been able to tell from past blog posts, I don't focus on my personal style and outfitting.

Why?

Because I don't have a dream budget to hire a team or a live-in photographer boyfriend with a DSLR to take all sorts of stylish pictures necessary for running a proper style blog.

Most of my blog content relies on a set of core topics, more compelling copy and basic flat-lays or travel pictures, edited so perfectly with my iPhone 6 plus—but it is finally time to embrace the occasional photoshoot for the blog.

Inspired by the pop anthem of 2016, these photos are part-fashion diary, part-love letter and part-portfolio update (in that order).

I had the pleasure of working with Maaike Bernstrom for this shoot in Newport, Rhode Island—we've worked together on projects for Laura Jean and The Newport Blast and I couldn't trust anyone else to help bring this vision to life. After Maaike and I booked the date, I made sure to schedule my hair salon at JF3 Salon for earlier the same day.

So yes. This is it. This is me. Trying to be casual. Yet also trying not to be too casual.

But definitely trying to have nice pictures for my inevitable blog revamp.

Please be kind. I know I'm not a model. I'm barely five feet tall, sell clothing as my day job and write as my passion and side-hustle...

Closer by The Chainsmokers feat. Halsey

Hey

I was doing just fine before I met you

I drink too much and that's an issue
But I'm okay

Hey
You tell your friends it was nice to meet them
But I hope I never see them again

I know it breaks your heart
Moved to the city in a broke-down car

And four years, no calls

Now you're looking pretty in a hotel bar

And I can't stop

No I can't stop

So, baby, pull me closer

In the back seat of your Rover

That I know you can't afford

Bite that tattoo on your shoulder

Pull the sheets right off the corner

Of that mattress that you stole

From your roommate back in Boulder

We ain't ever getting older

We ain't ever getting older

We ain't ever getting older

You look as good as the day I met you

I forget just why I left you,
I was insane

Stay 

And play that Blink-182 song
That we beat to death in Tucson,
Okay

I know it breaks your heart
Moved to the city in a broke-down car

And four years, no call
Now I'm looking pretty in a hotel bar

And I can't stop
No, I can't stop

So, baby, pull me closer

In the back seat of your Rover
That I know you can't afford

Bite that tattoo on your shoulder

Pull the sheets right off the corner

Of that mattress that you stole

From your roommate back in Boulder

We ain't ever getting older

We ain't ever getting older

No, we ain't ever getting older

Photography: Maaike Bernstrom

Hair: JF3 Salon

Location: Newport, Rhode Island

Plaid Shirt Outfit: Top, Jach's Girlfriend (available at Crosswynds Traders); Jeans, FRAME Le High Rise Skinny; Shoes, Frye Sacha Moto Shootie in Cognac

Black Shirt Outfit: Top, Theory; Jeans, AG Jeans Tomboy

Silk Cami Outfit: Top, Free People Intimates; Sweater, Theory Open Cardigan

Find of the Week | 17 and a Few Thoughts

My mom and I were out running errands yesterday when I suggested we check out the shops in Westport. It was a gorgeous spring day and well worth taking advantage of the warmer weather. We stopped into several shops, including Theory and Calypso St. Barth's, but we found some great deals at Loft and Gap.

While my mom was at an appointment, I camped out at Starbucks and worked on my thesis research.

Theory

I would be more than happy to have most of my career clothing to be completely from Theory...

As far as Calypso St. Barth's, I would shop here for my island-hopping and warm weather travels... 

I am still amazed at the bargains I scored: Marisa Straight Leg pants by Loft (originally $69.50, bought on sale for $14.88); GBalance yoga pants by GapFit (originally $39.50, bought on sale for $7.69)

Faux leather bow bracelet by Gap (originally $14.95, bought on sale for $5.58)

On a personal note, as much as I admire higher-end fashion brands, I don't think you need a million dollars to achieve the million-dollar look. If you don't have the budget to buy a Hermes handbag or a Theory suit, why devote so much of your resources--not just your money, but also your time--to obtain it when there are so many other lines that can probably give off the same look? Unless you wear your clothes inside out so everyone can see the label, you're the only one who really knows the difference.

If you have the spending money to buy the Birkin, then that's awesome--you probably deserve it. Otherwise, bargain hunt, thrift shop, or clothes swap with your friends--save your money for the trip you've always wanted to go on or your rent for next month.

You know what they say: money can't buy style.