I Wish I Was, I Wish I Was, Beside You

I just had to use one of my favorite 5SOS lyrics as my title, fitting since I finally got a physical copy of their album at Target on Friday (such excitement!). I’ve been struggling to come up with a post to write about. I read so many amazing blogs with people who live crazy lives of traveling, shopping, festival-going, or all of the above. I am from the middle of no-where where there is never anything to do. I traveled once this summer, and there is no decent shopping in sight. I work all day, and usually end up coming home solely to relax at night. What could I possibly show you all that is actually “fun” or “photo-worthy?”

That’s when I decided to take a closer look at my life. Yes, nothing extravagant seems to happen in my daily routine, but it’s the little things that bring joy, too.

Take, for example, Friday. I woke up early to go get our vehicle worked on (boring, I know), but we didn’t just travel to the nearest “city” (or bigger town, as I like to say), for that. My little sister, going to be a freshman in high school, was getting her braces off. How exciting for her! While this was just an average day for me, this was one of the best days for her. We stopped by Target, each picked up a copy of the 5SOS album (yes, we both like the same band), went to the orthodontist to take out the metal, and then went to Olive Garden to celebrate. I had some amazing pasta and chocolate mousse cake for dessert. I would like another piece now, please.

Look at her BEAUTIFUL, braces free, smile. (I'm on the left, just in case you didn't know!)

We headed back home on the 30-minute drive back to my teeny-tiny town and I had my sister take an OOTD photo in my street to end the day. Yes, I know I wear a lot of black/gray, but it’s my go-to, even for summer! As a bonus, I was wearing one of my absolute favorite Jawbreaking tees. They’re always so unique, so their shop is one of my favorites online.

Top: Jawbreaking (link to their site here)

Bottoms: Forever 21 (Cut by me--post on my DIY here)

Sandals: Forever 21 (borrowed from my sister)

While it wasn’t much, it was a special day for both her and me. Seeing her growing up makes me so happy & sad at the same time. Where did my little sister go? But, it’s nice being able to spend this time with her since I’ll end up having to move away soon, as college is flying by (getting a bit watery-eyed at this point). Small town life just isn’t for me.

Basically, I’m trying to share with you what I’ve been trying to teach myself. Yes, not everyday will be as fabulous and extravagant as others, and maybe you will only do one experience worth binge-blogging about all year, but be sure to take note of the little things too. Not only in blogging, but in life. These little memories are the ones that add up to make you just as happy as a singular major event. And hold joy dear, not only your own, but also those of the one’s you love.

I don’t want to get too emotional now, and I’m sorry if I haven’t gotten around to reading your blogs recently. I’m struggling writing blogs for myself, let alone reading others! I have two more 6-day work weeks coming up, and I’ll be sure to read yours as soon as I can before heading back to college the next week. I love reading about what’s been going on with your lives, especially if you have been doing some fun things this summer. If you are, then I’ve lived my summer vicariously through you. Speaking of summer, WHERE DID IT GO?! I’ve enjoyed getting a bit of blogging done this summer, and I am praying I will keep up with it this year as a second-year student at college. Much love and thanks for keeping up with me thus far—it’s only the beginning.

Much love,

Maggie D. xx

I’VE BEEN ACCEPTED!! *Cue Celebration*

I’m sitting here, writing this blog post at 2 in the morning, listening to Matty & George from The 1975 on the Radio 1 Breakfast Show (I’m catching up on my interviews), questioning absolutely nothing. I am quite content actually. After a week of stress, reading, and more stress and reading, I finally found out the best news I’ve heard all summer. In fact, besides my trip to Chicago, this was the only exciting thing to happen to me this summer (sad but true—there isn’t much to do back home where I’m from).

Last Sunday, I submitted my essay to finish up my study abroad application. I was basically shaking as I pressed the submit button. I wasn’t tooooo nervous, but there was obviously a bit of nerves. What if I didn’t get accepted? What if I looked at myself as a failure for the rest of my life? Ok, so I wasn’t that worried. But I was still scared.

They informed me that I would hear back in five business days, so I figured I would know by Friday. The days seem to drag on and on—I just wanted to know my fate. 5 p.m. hit on Friday, and I figured I wouldn’t know for the week. A WEEKEND OF ANXIOUSLY WAITING—I COULDN’T DO IT.

Then, at exactly 5:15 Friday evening, I got the email: Dear Maggie, I am happy to inform you that you have been selected to study on (college’s name) England program during the Spring of 2015…

I basically froze and wanted to cry and scream and fall down all at the same time. This is what I have wanted for years. I got accepted, and I am still in a bit of shock.

My sister was the only one home at the time, so I told her and texted everyone else that I love: “I GOT ACCEPTED!!”

I had to celebrate, so my sister and I hit up one of my favorite, summery local restaurants for an infamous “Bob’s dog” and fries. We stopped by the DQ for a shake afterward, and celebrated that night by watching House Hunters. Such a celebration, I know, but it really was a lovely evening. I posted a few photos from our little outing, including a little OOTD post. Simple tees, jeans and my new Vans are perfect for summer. I am so so so excited to take this next step in my life, and I cannot wait to travel to London next spring.

Since back-to-college shopping is just around the corner (really, where did summer go?) I was wondering if any Brits would share with me some winter/spring essentials. What should I invest in before traveling across the pond? Thanks for reading, and I have a five day break from work this week, so expect another post again soon!

All of my love,

Maggie D. xx

Chung & Tiffany's: My Style Inspirations

Because of my awkward hours at work, I seem to be suffering bouts of insomnia, or so it seems. I’m up until the weeee hours of the morning (4-4:30 to be exact… sorry if you read my tweets at this time of day). Since I can’t sleep, I took up reading, and reading has given me all kinds of new inspirations. I am currently finishing up my post at a little coffee shop in my town, and I must say I’m feeling perfectly inspired.

My first read was IT by Alexa Chung. I have adored her style and grace for the longest time, and I have been saving up for studying abroad, but I thought this was a necessary minor purchase, as a book purchase wouldn’t break me in the long run. And it was an incredible purchase. If you have been debating purchasing this book I say GO FOR IT. The book puts me in Alexa’s mind, giving me an insight as to why she wears what she wears/does what she does/what she gets inspo from/etc. Her style inspirations are fab, ranging from Wednesday Addams to Kate Moss. She shares her advice from boys to festivals, giving tips here and there for readers who, like me, want to channel their inner “Chung.”

Whilst reading reviews of the book, people complained it wasn’t much of what they were looking for. After reading it, I must add my two cents—what were you looking for? It gives us ace style tips and the photos are incredible, with tidbits of advice here and there. She gave tips to improving my Instagram photos (here is the link to my Insta if you would like to follow meee) and shared her love for dinosaurs. What more can a person want? One of my favorite quotes (among many, I might add): “Looking effortless takes a lot of effort.”

My best friend from college and I decided to start our own little book club which is honestly one of the greatest things I decided to do this summer. As English majors, it’s good to continue honing our inner lit analysts whilst reading some literary classics. (How educated did I sound right there?) In a writing class we took together, we watched the film Capote, giving us a taste about this intriguing author and his life. So, we had to pick up two of his greatest works, In Cold Blood, and the well-known Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Breakfast at Tiffany’s is a novella, and because it was only 87 pages long, we decided to start with this book. Audrey Hepburn brought Holly Golightly to life in the film, and her face stuck in my mind as I read the novel. Her character is complex, and, is a “real phony,” but she embodies the grace of a woman of her time. “Darling” has been on repeat in my head, and you can hear her voice as it describes the way she dresses. I embody the simplicity of Holly: “…she wore a slim cool black dress, black sandals, a pearl chocker…A pair of dark glasses blotted out her eyes.” The grace described through this one ensemble, and the twist and turns her character takes enthralls me throughout the entire novella. While I haven’t seen the film (I know, where have I been living?!), I would highly recommend the book. You can’t fully capture a literary genius on the screen.

These books both encompass styles and creativity that I absolutely adore. Literary figures and pop culture icons are perfect places to get style inspirations—where do you get your inspiration? What has been on your reading list for the summer? Please share in the comments below.

Much love,

Maggie D. xx

Make Sparks Fly on the Fourth

It’s that time of year again folks. The fourth of July is a huge holiday here in the states (sorry if you’re reading this from another country!). Styling for freedom day should be the least of your worries when you have all of the BBQs, parties, fireworks, and other outdoor activities to attend. I know it's a bit late to go shopping for a new outfit now, but I have picked out a few pieces that would be great to try. The one thing I would recommend is keeping your ensemble as simple as can be. These toasty July months call for shorts and tanks, and here are a few pieces that will make you ready for any party you will attend. (Just to warn you, there is a lot of red, white, and blue. I mean, it is the fourth, so you might as well go all-out, right?)

A simple pair of shorts and a tee or tank is an easy breezy look for the fourth. I picked out some USA styles that I think would be fun to show off while out and about all day.

 Shorts: Topshop

Tee: Urban Outfitters

Sandals: Urban Outfitters

Tank (plain): Topshop (SALE!)

Tank (MTV): Forever 21

Shorts: Topshop

Sandals: Urban Outfitters

For a formal affair, a dress or romper is ideal. Try a pair nice sandals and a hat to keep away the rays while you spend the day outside.

Dress: Nasty Gal

Sandals: ASOS

Hat: Forever 21

Also, you can't forget a cute pair of sunnies to finish off your ensemble! These are my current favorites (I do have a pretty big obsession with sunglasses--I can't seem to stop buying them!):

Sunglasses: Topshop

Here are a few outfit ideas to try for the fourth! I do not think I will be doing much to celebrate, except staying home and catching up with my family. We have been working and doing all kinds of crazy things all summer, and I work tonight and have off until next Monday for the holiday. I will try to post again soon, so be sure to look for more posts in the upcoming weeks! Thank you for reading, and I can't wait to speak to all of you again soon.

Maggie D. xx

Keeping it Short for Summer

Even though summer is flying by, it is never too late to invest in some style staples that can last through every trend and summer to come.

Keep it “Classic” Denim

Making an investment in basic denim is the best thing for any fashionista to do. Having both lighter and darker washes in any wardrobe preps you with this timeless summer classic.

 Top: River Island

Bottom: Topshop

80s Acid Wash

This lighter wash denim seems to be sneaking back in to the summer trends, and these are the perfect wash to wear for any summer festival or concert. Rock your look with a band tee and make an ensemble that’s perfectly “punk rock.” (yes, this is a 5SOS reference)

Find them at Topshop.

Pop of Color

Summer is the season of color, so a bright pair of shorts is a perfect pick. Pick a color, any color—the choice is up to you. You’ll be looking on point no mater what you wear.

Top: Forever 21

Bottom: Topshop

Luxe Leather

One of the hottest AND most classy trends to try—leather. Don these bottoms with a dressier top and heels, and look as cool as you feel.

Find these at Topshop.

Woven Wonder

Keep it comfy and cool on your day off with a pair of woven shorts. This breezy style makes it look like you put a lot more effort into your ensemble, even if you didn’t. Nothing wrong with making people think that, is there?

Top: Nasty Gal

Bottom: Forever 21

Keep it Classy

A pair of dressy shorts is always appropriate to have for a special occasion. Try strappy sandals and a posh top to be ready for all of the summer weddings and family get-togethers.

Top: Topshop

Bottom: Modcloth

These are some of the hottest choices for these toasty summer months. What picks are your favorites? What would you like to see for future fashion posts? Let me know in the comments below.

Much love,

Maggie D. xx

Beach-Approved Summer Wear

Whether you’re out with your friends for a BBQ, or spending your day soaking in the rays, be sure to look your best with the hottest summer trends.

Arrive at a party put together with a simple designed suit. The dots on this swimming suit are a classic print, keeping it dressy. Throwing on a maxi dress keeps your ensemble cool and comfortable in the sticky summer heat. Find a nice pair of sandals and sunnies to finish off your posh pool look.

Top: H&M

Bottoms: H&M

Dress: ASOS

Sandals: Topshop

Sunglasses: Nasty Gal

Hat: H&M

Bag: H&M

For a less dressy, but still classic look, try a solid color bikini. Of course, I am impartial to black, as it is my favorite color to wear since it is always in trend. The top on this bikini offers support or a bit of push up for those who need it (aka me). Try a black and white printed cover up for a safe look, or try a maxi skirt with a pop of color for something more daring. A pair of black sandals finishes off the outfit.

Top: H&M

Bottoms: H&M

Cover-up: Topshop

Sandals: H&M

Sunglasses: H&M

Skirt: ASOS

Hat: H&M

Tote: H&M

For a fun day at the water with friends, a proper suit is needed. Wearing a one-piece suit makes sure nothing falls out (or off) while swimming. The cotton candy colors are cool for summer, and the strappy style of the suit give it a bit of a flirty vibe. Keeping with the summery feel I paired a bright cover-up with some feminine florals over top. A pair of bright sandals and eye wear get you beach ready in no time.

Suit: Nasty Gal

Cover-up: ASOS

Sandals: Nasty Gal

Sunglasses: Nasty Gal

Tote: Forever 21

For a sporty getup, I wanted to find a top that offers a bit more coverage. I loved this suit and jelly sandals since they both looked like some wardrobe staples I had as a kid—oh, the good old days! I wanted to try a little bit of a monochromatic look with a pink top and cover-up. I threw in a bit of blue with the sunglasses, and you could even attempt glasses just like the pink pair pictured below (I know, crazy but cute).

Suit (Top & Bottom Set): Nasty Gal

Cover-up: ASOS

Sandals: Topshop

Sunglasses (blue): Nasty Gal

Sunglasses (pink): Nasty Gal

Bag: Forever 21

These are some of my outfit picks for a day in the sun. Which one is your favorite? Would you attempt any of these on a beachy day out? I would love to read your comments below!

Until next time,

Maggie D. xx