Today’s Look: The Two Trends I Used to Hate

Published on January 30, 2018 by kendallshea22Leave a comment

Hello everyone! I hope you had a relaxing weekend. I spent the weekend back home with my family, and left feeling rejuvenated and motivated to take on this week! I guess we will see how long that lasts.

Today I wanted to share an outfit with you that I was initially very skeptical about: boyfriend jeans and camouflage. I realize that neither of these trends are new, and I’m a little late to the party, but it took me awhile to fully get on board. In my mind, boyfriend jeans only looked flattering on skinny girls, and camouflage was meant for hunting. Boy was I wrong! These two items have quickly become my college winter uniform.

Jeans: Old Navy (on sale for $30!) Jacket: Old Navy (also on sale for $30!) Sweater: Target (old) Belt: Anne Klein Shoes: Puma Purse: Ross

Boyfriend jeans are meant to fit your waist like regular jeans, but loosely fit your legs and hips. Plus, these jeans are a straight cut so they do not taper at the bottom of the leg. I always thought that of all the extra material would make me look heavier than I am, but this cut is actually more flattering on me than skinny jeans. I got these in my regular size, and they fit like a dream. They have a slight high waist, light wash, and distressing on both legs.

I have a love/hate relationship with distressed jeans, and by that I mean that when I try to buy distressed jeans, they are never as distressed as I want them. They are either too distressed or not distressed enough, but these are just right. I never knew how comfortable jeans could be until I started wearing boyfriend jeans! I typically belt them with something tucked in the front, because this is an overall more flattering silhouette. But you can wear them with things untucked as well.

Because the jeans are so light, I paired them with this dark grey turtleneck sweater for some contrast. This sweater has been a favorite of mine since I got it at Target a couple years ago. The chunky knit helps add a textural element to the outfit. To top the outfit off I added my new favorite jacket: this Old Navy camo utility jacket. Like I said before, I always thought camouflage was only meant for hunting. And if camo was worn for fashion it always came off as tacky to me.

When camouflage started making its rounds as a trend, I kind of rolled my eyes and avoided it. And then this jacket came into work one day, and it immediately caught my eye. I have this same jacket is two other colors, khaki and olive green, so I knew that I would like the fit of it. I tried it on one day just for the heck of it, and fell in love. I wasn’t sure how I would style it at the time, but I knew I had to have it. And I know that I am eating my words, but camo definitely works as a neutral! You can wear it with anything, and it adds pattern and interest to even the most casual outfit. I find myself reaching for this jacket almost everyday, and it pairs so well with boyfriend jeans, a tee shirt or sweater, and sneakers. This has basically become my everyday cool girl outfit.

When it came down to accessories, I knew I wanted to wear my new Puma Ignite sneakers. I got these for Christmas and have literally not taken them off since. They are a creamy off-white color, and they definitely give my Adidas Superstars a break. I chose them because they are different from any other sneakers I have. Most of my collection is flat and round, much like the shape of the superstars, but these provide more support for my foot and are insanely comfortable. I also think they are a lot easier to clean than my Adidas. But don’t worry! They still have a special place in my heart.

To me, this outfit is very model off duty, effortless, and cool. I am obsessed.

If you take away one thing from today’s post it should be to never judge a trend without first trying it out yourself. Never be afraid to try something new, especially when it comes to fashion. And no matter what, be comfortable and confident in your own skin!

I hope you guys enjoyed this post. Let me know your thoughts on the camouflage and boyfriend jeans trend. What trends do you hate, and do you think you will give them a chance now?

See you guys next week!

Love, Kendall

How to Style a Fur Vest

Published on January 19, 2018 by kendallshea22Leave a comment

Happy Friday, everyone!

Raise your hand if you are loving this cold weather? Now raise your hand if you are sick and tired of it? Well, guess who just raised both of her hands: me!

I’m sorry if you are ready to move onto spring and summer, but I just can’t let the winter fashion go. I love being able to wear sweaters and jackets and multiple layers. But on the other hand, I hate going outside when it is below freezing. I just want that chill in the air, without feeling like I’m frozen by the time I get home. Is that too much to ask??

Today, I am sharing the perfect winter outfit with you: a fur vest! When I first got this vest for Christmas about two years ago, I had no idea how I was going to wear it. And to be completely honest, it just sat in my closet collecting dust up until recently. My dad likes to joke that this vest looks like “squirrel fur,” but don’t worry it is 100% faux fur! I understand that a lot of you might think that a fur vest looks tacky or outrageous, and a few years ago I probably would have agreed with you. But when styled correctly this piece can be both stylish and warm!

Sweater: Old Navy Fur Vest: Old Navy (similar) Jeans: JCPenney’s Belt: Anne Klein Booties: Dolce Vita (similar)

I think my favorite thing about fur vests, and this vest in particular, is the texture and amount of interest they bring to any outfit. The different colors of brown layered on top of each other really create the allusion of dimension and body in the fur. Because of that, I think it is best to layer a vest like this over a much simpler outfit.

If you are worried about wearing a statement piece like this, it is best to keep the rest of your outfit toned down so that the vest adds to the ensemble instead of taking away from it. I paired this dark, forest green sweater with this outfit because the color really compliments and enhances the colors of the vest.

When I think of fur vests I am often reminded of the boxy and unflattering shape that they tend to have. To prevent the amount of fabric from completely taking over, I put on some skinny jeans and tucked my sweater in the front. By doing this, I am clearly accentuating my waist and breaking up the boxiness of the vest. I also added some height with these brown suede booties.

Whether you are on the curvier side (like me) or the more petite side, this step is essential in making sure you are wearing the vest, and the vest isn’t wearing you.

Because the rest of the outfit is simple, I decided to add some gold accents with the jewelry and accessories. Layering necklaces is such a trend right now, but in order to do this right you need to make sure you choose two necklaces with varying styles, lengths, or widths. Here I have one gold necklace with a thin, delicate chain and pendant, and one gold necklace with a thicker, more textured chain. I also added this Anne Klein statement belt to bring attention to my waist and really pull this whole look together.

Overall, the colors, fur, and accessories give this outfit a slight 70s vibe with a modern twist. I can’t believe this started with an item that took up space in my closet, and became one of my favorite looks I’ve shared on Becoming Kendall. Whether you are looking for some inspiration and tips for rocking your own fur vest, or you feel inspired to pull that item you never grab for out of your closet and create an amazing look with it, I hope this post has helped you. Feel free to share your own tips on how to rock a fur vest, or any other statement piece, in the comments down below!

Have a great weekend, and I’ll see you next time!

Love, Kendall

My Winter Skincare Routine

Published on January 9, 2018 by kendallshea22Leave a comment

Hey guys! Happy Tuesday!

I don’t know about where you are, but here in Oklahoma it has been very chilly. And for me, that only means one thing: dry skin! However, there is one catch. I have combination skin, which means that parts of my face are extremely dry and other parts are extremely oily. Sadly, the colder months only intensify these problems. So today I am showing you the products and routine that I use on a daily basis. If you suffer from problems similar to mine, I would highly recommend trying out some of these products and finding the routine that best suits you and your skin!

I know that everybody’s skin is different, and while these products work for my skin, they might not work for yours. I am not a dermatologist, nor do I claim to be. I am just here to share my personal experiences and encourage you to develop your own skincare regimen.

1. Biore Charcoal Cleanser 2. Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Melting Balm 3. Biore Acne Scrub 4. Mario Badescu Rose Facial Spray 5. Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Neroli Water 6. Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer

Cleansing –

I tried this Biore cleanser and exfoliating scrub by chance this summer, and I fell in love! The charcoal in it helps take care of the oilier parts of my face. And while I’ve never had an issue with acne and blemishes, this cleanser and scrub have completely gotten rid of the occasional spots I used to get. If you have combination, oily, or acne-prone skin, I would highly recommend this product. However, if you skin tends to be dry, I would look into a product like Farmacy’s Green Clean Makeup Melting Balm. This oil based cleanser is moisturizing while completely melting away all of your makeup. I know that sounds weird, but I have never seen a product that takes off my makeup so easily (and I wear a lot of it!) I typically use this first to get all of my makeup off, and then wash my face again with the cleanser and scrub.

Facial Spray (Toning) –

After washing my face, I use the Mario Bedescu Rose facial spray or the Kerstin Florian toner water. By spraying it all over my face, I feel refreshed. The Mario Bedescu spray has aloe and rose in it, which is meant to reduce facial redness. The toner is supposed to help close your pores and shrink and tighten them. Now I don’t actually know if this is true, or if this step is completely necessary, but I have noticed a difference in my skin’s look and texture. So take that as you will.

Serums/Oils –

Now you are probably wondering: if I complain about my skin being oily, why would I put more oils on my face? Well the two oils/serums that I use both have ingredients that make them great for my skin type. I use a serum with hyaluronic acid, which is actually good for providing moisture to oily skin, while still being lightweight. It is easily absorbed, and doesn’t leave a sticky or oily residue. I also use tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is good for acne spots and blemishes because it helps dry them up. I use this one more sparingly, as I tend to have very few breakouts, but it is good to have just in case. Both of the specific serums I use are unavailable online, but if you look for products that have those key ingredients in them they should do the trick. I would look at places like Walmart, Target, or your local drugstore.

Moisturizer –

This is my favorite moisturizer, and I have been using it for about three or four years now. The Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer has been a bit of a “holy grail” in my skincare routine (before I really even had a skincare routine). For me, this product gets the job done and without breaking the bank. Since I tend to do my routine at the end of the day, I like to finish off with a pump of this moisturizer and then let it absorb into my skin over night. I always wake up with soft and dewy skin. Plus it has a little SPF in it for protection.

This is the routine and the products that work for me. It has taken many years to curate and create this regimen, but I am very pleased with the results. I very rarely stray from this routine, except to try a new product or treat myself to a face mask. And while I know that this list of products won’t work for everyone, I hope that I have at least brought a couple of things to your attention.

If you have tried or use any of these products on a regular basis let me know! Or if you have any holy grail products of your own, leave them down in the comments. I would love to know!

I realize that this post might not be for everyone, and if you get nothing out of it I hope you at least get this: Take care of your skin. Take care of yourself. Find your own routine. Be confident in your own body. And love yourself.

Love, Kendall

P.S. If you have any other beauty/skincare tips you would like to hear from me next, I would love to hear it! Maybe a round up of my favorite face masks? Or my holy grail makeup items? Let me know!

Three Things I Learned in 2017

Published on January 4, 2018 by kendallshea221 Comment

Hello and Happy New Year everyone!

I am so excited to share today’s post with you guys. This is a subject that has been on my mind for a very long time, but I only just found the right words for it. As you know, I just finished my second to last semester of college, and it was the toughest one yet. Earlier in the semester I severely injured my knee, and required surgery. As a result of this, I missed so much school that I spent the rest of the semester playing catch up. The work load just kept piling on, and the stress was almost too much to handle. Almost. But I am here to tell you that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I survived what has been the hardest year of my life, and I came out a much stronger person.

Below, I am going to share with you the three lessons I learned from my personal experiences of 2017, and how I grew as a result. I hope this will encourage you to look back on your year and focus on the things that grew you as a person. And if you feel like you didn’t achieve the level of growth you wanted, then work on it this upcoming year.

Sweater: Old Navy Jeans: Old Navy Jacket: Old Navy (available in navy here) Booties: MIA (available in black too! and on sale for $34!) Glasses: Kenneth Cole

Disclaimer: I know what you are thinking. “Kendall, do you only shop at Old Navy?” The answer is…pretty much. I work there so I get a nice discount, but all of my opinions are honest and my own.

1) Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up!

Whether it be in an office setting or within a friend group, you should never be afraid to voice your concerns and speak your mind. This was one of the biggest lessons I learned during my internship in New York. While working for a magazine, I had so many questions about the work behind the scenes. Why did we do the things we did? What affect did it have on the production? Who made those decisions, and what was the thought process behind them? I wanted to understand it all on a deeper level, and my superiors knew that. So when I asked these questions, they answered them. In fact, as the internship continued, they encouraged these learning sessions and enjoyed my enthusiasm towards my job. I understand this may not be the case in every situation, and that’s where the ability to discern whether your voice is appropriate in that setting comes in handy.

For example, if your friends are making plans without you and you feel left out, you should let them know. It may change nothing, or it may help them realize that they were leaving you out and hurting your feelings unintentionally. Or if you are applying for a job, it is good to be consistent when you check on the status of your application. You don’t have to do this everyday, in fact you definitely shouldn’t, but if you haven’t heard anything back for 10-12 days, it may be worth another call or email. No matter the scenario, you can make a lot more opportunities for yourself if you learn to speak up.

2) Achievement is Relative

Now this one may sound a bit weird, but let me explain. When I was unable to walk because of my knee injury, I felt helpless. I couldn’t do anything on my own. I was constantly having to ask for help from those around me. It was truly a humbling experience. And something I learned from this is that we need to celebrate the little things. When you are injured, or stressed, or having a rough day, the littlest things are achievements. Getting up out of bed and going to class. Getting a big project done early. Drinking enough water. All of these things are achievements, and should be celebrated. Not everyone is able to climb Mount Everest or run a marathon. And sometimes the simple act of getting out of bed, can feel as big as Everest.

3) I am Stronger Than I Think

If there is one thing this year has taught me, it is this. I am so much stronger than I ever thought I was. In 2017, I moved to New York on my own to pursue my dream internship. I lived in the big city for about three months and I loved every minute of it. I survived a surgery, which five months ago I never would have imagined I could do. I am terrified of needles, a fear which did everything it could to prevent me from going through with the surgery. But with the help and strength of those I love, I was able to overcome this fear. Not only did I go through with the surgery, but I also worked hard in physical therapy for weeks to get my mobility and strength back. After all of that, I had to put my nose to the grindstone and work hard to catch back up on all that I missed, while also getting my grades up.

At the beginning of the year, I never could have imagined that I would be able to face all of the things that were thrown at me this year. But by the grace of God, the love of my family, and my own personal growth, I was able to get through 2017. I only hope that this post allowed you to reflect on your year in a positive way, and to look back on all the ways you grew. I wish you all a Happy New Year and I hope that 2018 is filled with even more growth and happiness for the both of us.

Cheers!

Love, Kendall

Today’s Look: Home for the Holidays

Published on December 25, 2017 by kendallshea221 Comment

Well Merry Christmas, y’all!

I know it’s been a long time since I posted anything new. But after the past couple of months I’ve had, this break was much needed. As some of you may know, earlier this year I severely injured my knee, which resulted in surgery and physical therapy. After that, I decided to continue my hiatus for personal reasons which I will share in a following blog post. Needless to say this year has been rough for me, but I’m just glad to be surrounded by the ones I love for the holidays and to be one semester closer to graduation. I plan on getting back into a routine of sharing these moments with you through blog posts.

But enough about the past, let’s talk about the present (ha, present…Christmas…see what I did there?)

Sweater: Old Navy (similar here and here) Skirt: Old Navy (similar here) Boots: Steve Madden (similar here for 40% off!) Coat: Cato (similar here and here)

For this outfit, I went with something that was festive, without being straight up Christmas-y. I got this red plaid skirt on clearance, but the weather had started to warm up, so I didn’t get much wear out of it until recently. I love the pop of color it brings to an otherwise dreary outfit. I paired it with this light grey turtleneck sweater to add some contrast to the overall dark tones of this outfit. Of course I had to add these thigh high boots and coat to provide some warmth, because while I may be in Oklahoma, it can get very chilly this time of year.

I chose the boots, because they cover up my legs without having to wear tights (although you could add some if you wanted to) and then the coat was added to make the outfit seem more cohesive and festive. If you are in the market for a new coat this year, then I definitely suggest something in a bright and bold color. In the winter, we tend to cover up our outfits with big bulky coats, so why not make the coat itself a fashion statement by picking something fun.

No matter what circumstances are surrounding you this holiday season, I hope that you find even the smallest moments of happiness. I know that for many Christmas is a time for family, but don’t forget to take some time for yourself to reflect, rest, and find peace. And most of all, enjoy every moment you can. Savor it. Tell the people around you how much they mean to you. Look forward to the things God has in store.

Merry Christmas, everyone! And Happy Holidays!

Love, Kendall

Travel Diaries: The Struggles of Living in New York

Published on July 18, 2017 by kendallshea222 Comments

Live from New York, it’s another installment of Travel Diaries!

Hey y’all, (I know, living in New York hasn’t stopped me from saying y’all) it’s been about seven weeks of me living here in the city, and I just wanted to update you guys on my journey. Also, in case you couldn’t tell, I updated my website and changed a few things. I would really like your thoughts and opinions on the new look, so please leave a comment down below letting me know the things that you like or don’t like. Thank you!

Now I know that the title of this post may scare you, it may make you think that this post is going to be sad or depressing or negative, but I can guarantee you that this will not be the case. This post is meant to be realistic, candid, and honest, because that’s what I feel like you guys deserve.

This truth is that living in New York is not a constant sitcom episode, and I am not Carrie Bradshaw or Rachel Greene (although truth be told, I sometimes feel like I am 😉 ).
Top: Forever 21 Jeans: Old Navy Shoes: Forever 21 Purse: TJ Maxx

So as someone who is interning in New York, I don’t get to do a whole lot of adventuring, or as my friend’s call it “prancing.” But when I do have free time, I feel like I am almost expected to do Instagram worthy things, or else what am I even doing here?

This brings me to my first struggle: You feel like you constantly have to be doing something cool or touristy in the city. This really sucks when it comes to wanting to relax and recuperate after a long week of working. But at the same time, if you sit in your apartment and watch Netflix all day, then what are you doing with your life? So here I am trying to find the balance between living my best life in NYC and exploring, while also taking time to myself to relax both mentally and physically. I’ll let you guys know when I’ve achieved that balance.

Another struggle is worrying too much about the perfect social media post. I feel like every time I go out I am constantly worrying about adding things to my Instastories, or my Snapchat Stories, or getting the best “candid” Instagram pic. And I know that posting on social media or sharing your experiences is not necessarily a bad thing, but there seems to be this idea that we attach to things like social media (especially for bloggers) that we have to show the perfect version of ourselves. I am guilty of this as well, but we also tend to put way too much value in things like views and likes. I’m trying this new thing where I just post things that make me happy and not worry about how many likes I am getting or if the picture I post is absolutely perfect. I’m just so sick of thinking a day is ruined because I didn’t get the perfect Instagram picture. I want to do things for the experience first, and the social media posts later.

Now it’s time to get serious. If I’m being honest, New York has been a really lonely experience for me. I know that may shock some of you, and some days are more lonely than others, but when you have several people that all have different schedules, different “cliques,” and want to do different things, you’re bound to feel left out every once in awhile. And for me, it’s a little more than every once in awhile. But never fear, I have found some true friends that have kept me company and help ward off the loneliness. Heck, I’ve even made some new friends. And here’s the best news yet, my mom comes to visit this week! I can not wait to have my best friend with me again. Just think about all the shenanigans we’ll get into up here!

Long story short, I did not write this post so I could throw myself a pity party, or to say that New York is terrible. In fact, I love living here, and I hope I come back for good after graduation. I just felt like you guys deserved to unadulterated truth; my life in New York is far from perfect. But I am making it my home. And those moments when everything just seems to fall into place, and I just know in my soul that this is where I am meant to be, those moments make all of the struggles worth it.

I hope you enjoyed this episode of Travel Diaries. Until next time, don’t forget to take some time to relax.

Love, Kendall

Travel Diaries: My First Week Interning in New York

Published on June 15, 2017 by kendallshea22Leave a comment

Hello everyone from New York City! I’ve been spending the past couple of weeks getting settled in my new apartment, my new city, and my new job. In case you didn’t know, I am interning with Women’s Health Magazine this summer in New York City. Now for the question I am sure you are all begging to ask me: how is life in the big city? Well, that’s a bit of a complicated question, but I promise that I will do my best to answer it over the next several blog posts in this new series that I am titling “Travel Diaries.”

Shirt: Old Navy (white version here) Jeans: JCPenney’s Shoes: Target

The other day, my friend Megan and I pranced to Central Park for a little photo shoot, but little did we know that there would be some rain on our parade. With only a 30% chance of rain, of course we would experience a torrential downpour in the middle of Central Park. And without an umbrella, we were forced to hide under a tree until it slowed down. At least we have a fun story to tell now.

Shortly after our escapade in the rain, we headed back home to get ready to see Brendon Urie in Kinky Boots on Broadway! And boy was it worth it! Now I went in not knowing anything about the show, but I walked out knowing that I had just witnessed one of the most fun and exciting shows on Broadway! The finale felt like a literal party. Brendon Urie was amazing, as always, and I think I’m in love. But I don’t know if it’s with Brendon or the show 😉

Now let’s talk about my job. I am working as an editorial fashion intern for Women’s Health. Long story short, this means I work a lot in the fashion closet, checking in samples from different brands for us to style in the magazine, and occasionally getting to personally assist the fashion editor on photo shoots! Now for confidentiality reasons, I can not share details involving the shoots (sorry!) but I will do my best to share what I can. Plus, you can see everything I have helped work on in the upcoming October issue. Until then, I can only share vague pictures, but I will definitely be posting more once the issue is published! Stay tuned!

I am loving life in the city, and while I miss home, my family, and friends, I feel a sense of purpose being here. I don’t think I have ever been this happy or fulfilled in life. This does not come without struggles, but I will get into those more next week.

I can’t wait to continue sharing my adventures and experiences with you guys. This may be the most brutally honest series I have ever covered on here to date. I really hope you enjoy.

Until next time!

Love, Kendall

Happy Birthday: 21 Lessons I Have Learned by 21

Published on May 27, 2017 by kendallshea22Leave a comment

In case the title didn’t give it away already, it’s my 21st birthday! And while today is going to be filled with birthday wishes and time spent with loved ones, I wanted to share two looks with you guys as well as some very important lessons I have learned over the past 21 years.

P.S. I am aware that this photo shoot is extra, but honestly I couldn’t help myself. Be prepared for the many photos to come.

Look 1: Top: JCPenney Skirt: Ark & Co Shoes: Clark’s Necklace: borrowed from Mom 😉

As a kid, all you want to do is grow up. You want to be able to be out on your own, not have to listen to your parents, and be an “adult.” But as you get older, you start to realize everything that comes with being an adult. Most the time, I don’t even consider myself an adult. Because in my head an adult is supposed to have everything together, an adult is supposed to be going somewhere in life, they are supposed to have things figured out. Well according to that definition, I don’t feel like I’m an adult. But here I am, one year left in college, about to spend the summer living in New York City, working at the internship of my dreams. All of these things seemed so distant and, at times, even impossible about six months ago. Now it feels so real and sudden and so very, very scary. That’s another thing: adults don’t get scared.

Well forget what you thought you knew about being an adult. Because the truth is that adulthood is wonderful and amazing and scary and freeing and stressful and satisfying all at the same time! I know that I’m only just starting to learn these things, and some of the lessons I’m about to tell you are not just for you, they are for me as well. Because I am still learning. And I still have a ways to go.

Look 2: Top: Old Navy Skirt: Haute Monde Shoes: parker & sky

Don’t worry about what other people think.
Never apologize for being yourself.
Be as “extra” as you want.
It’s okay to treat yourself every once in a while.
Friends come and go, but family is forever.
Listen to your parents. They are right about some (most) things.
Love yourself, because you are stuck with yourself.
Never change who you are for a friendship, a relationship, or a job.
Let go of grudges, they only hold you back.
That being said, forgiveness and trust must be earned.
Everything happens for a reason.
But that doesn’t mean things will always make sense.
Trust yourself, trust your parents, and above all else, trust in God.
Not everyone has it all figured out. In fact, most don’t.
It’s okay to feel a little lost and confused.
But it’s also okay to ask for help.
You deserve happiness.
You are strong.
That being said, strength is not taught, it is earned. So get back up and try again.
Don’t give up on yourself or your dreams.
Dreams do come true, but only if you work hard for them.

This list is not comprehensive, nor does it work for everyone. This is not a ‘one size fits all’ kind of thing. I just wanted to speak from my own personal experiences and offer a few words of courage to anyone out there who, like me, is still figuring it all out. You may not agree with everything on this list, and that’s okay. You do you. The important thing is that we all do what’s best for us.

But I feel like this post was worth sharing, if only for you to hear about my life experiences. I hope you all take something away from this post. Feel free to leave your thoughts or any lessons you want to add in the comments below! And don’t forget, although we may grow older, there’s still a child inside us all.

The next time you read a post from me, I’ll be posting it from New York City!

Until then,

Much love, Kendall

Today’s Look: Denim Shirt Dress + Quick Life Update

Published on May 18, 2017 by kendallshea22Leave a comment

Hello guys! It’s been awhile, and a lot has changed in the past couple of weeks. I finished my junior year of college, moved out of my first apartment, got settled back home, and now I only have two weeks before I pack back up and head to New York. Suffice to say, my head is reeling and I apologize for the lack of posting. It’s been almost impossible to get the ground under my feet before its pulled out from underneath me again. I really appreciate your patience with me, and I really hope that patience continues. I believe in being transparent with you guys, and I just want to update you guys on a couple of changes that are coming to my blog (and my life) as well as a couple of kinks I’m still working out.

Shirt Dress: Old Navy Purse: Anne Klein (TJ Maxx) Shoes: Rampage (TJ Maxx) Necklace: Old Navy

First things first, this dress. I am so glad that the shirt dress trend is back! This dress is one of the most comfy things in my closet, and the chambray material is so versatile and stylish. You can literally style this dress in so many different ways. Whether you dress it up, like I did today, or dress it down for a casual day running around.

Now’s the time for some transparency. I love this blog. I love sharing my love for photography, fashion, and beauty, as well as getting personal with you guys. Although this blog started out as a way for my friends and family back home to keep up with me while I was away at college, I feel like the intentions behind it have evolved a lot over the years. I truly do want this to become a blog that is focused solely on fashion, styling, and beauty, as well as my everyday life. However, I feel like given the following that I have, mostly friends and family, I am not able to fully deliver the content I want without losing interest/followers. As shallow as that sounds, you can’t really be a blogger without worrying about gaining a wider audience. And while I am trying to move past that, I am still struggling with trying to find a compromise regarding my content.

So here’s what to expect on my blog over the next couple of weeks: changes, lots of changes. Hopefully for the better. I am turning 21 next, and the week after that I am heading to New York to intern for the summer with a fashion magazine. I don’t know how easy or hard taking pictures/blogging will be in the big city, especially with my busy schedule. On another note, I am hoping to revamp the look and overall aesthetic of my blog over the next couple weeks. More than anything I ask for prayers and patience with me as I attempt to navigate the ever changing world of blogging.

I would really like to hear any feedback or comments you guys might have about my blog as well as any content you would be interested in seeing. Thank you guys so much for following me and for coming on this journey with me. I know it hasn’t been easy, but I love hearing from you guys. Your overwhelming love and support makes me smile.

I look forward to hearing from all of you.

Love, Kendall

Today’s Look: Hello Spring + Conquering Fashion Fears

Published on April 21, 2017 by kendallshea22Leave a comment

As you could probably tell by my last post, I am all about easy, breezy, and beautiful dresses this spring. (Did I just use the CoverGirl slogan to describe dresses? Maybe, but it’s accurate.) Last week, I shared eight dresses that would be perfect for Easter Sunday or a casual spring day. Well today, I am going to be showing you how I personally styled one of those dresses, and how doing so helped me to overcome some of my “fashion fears.”

Dress: Old Navy (Unavailable Online) Denim Jacket: Old Navy (Unavailble Online) Shoes: Rampage (TJ Maxx) Purse: Nine West

I used to never wear denim jackets. They were the kind of thing that I wore only if I had to, like with a dress that needed an extra layer. I guess somewhere in the back of my head I thought that denim jackets could never been stylish. But when I found this jacket at Old Navy, I was immediately drawn to it. It was such a reach for me because I never wear light wash denim, but now I can’t be seen without it. This is my new favorite top layer to just throw on over anything and everything. I’m very tempted to add patches and pins to this jacket, but I also like the idea of a plain jacket that will go with everything. What are your thoughts? Maybe I should just get another jacket to patch up! 😉

I seriously love the midi trend. It makes me feel like a princess, and all I want to do it twirl. I know, cliche right? But it’s so true. I was initially hesitant to wear it, but after trying this dress on, I fell in love. It is so comfy and feminine and it just makes me feel like it’s spring time.

As someone who has never been skinny, I’ve always been wary of the way clothing looks on my body. I followed rules like: don’t wear anything that hits your mid calf or it will cut you off and make you look short and stubby. Or don’t wear shoes that hit at your ankle…for the same reason. Basically, I had to follow every rule or I would end up looking “terrible.” But honestly, after a while, following the rules becomes too confining. And you never get to wear what you want. So I say screw the rules, wear what you want, and feel fabulous while doing so.

What are your fashion fears? What are you too self conscious to try? Because I guarantee you are capable of rocking it. All it takes some confidence and sass! And I don’t know about you, but I have enough of that to spare. So turn the world into your runway. 1…2…3…Let’s go!

Love, Kendall