Tuesday, December 31, 2013

The Highlights

As I was looking through my Life Planner last week, I decided to peruse the notes section -- and when I did, I found things like "Spring Break Packing List", Chaucer final paper topics, and Miss NC prep. Those notes took me back to those moments, and I decided to look back through the pages of my planner (the pages of my life) to see where 2013 has taken me - and let me tell you, it has taken me everywhere. I don't usually use this little place of my life for these kinds of things, but when I look back through the journey of this blog, I'll be glad I did.

1// Miss Wilmington
The year started off when I won Miss Wilmington on January 5 and was given the opportunity to represent my hometown at Miss North Carolina. I don't share too much about the pageant side of my life here, but it's been quite an adventure, one I wouldn't trade for the world.

2// Final Semester
I started and ended my final semester of college -- and with that came classes I didn't always like, babysitting one cute little boy, memories I wouldn't trade for the world, and a very, very long final paper.

3// Spring Break
In March, I took a spring break trip with my best friends. We took a cruise from Ft. Lauderdale down to the Caribbean, and those 5 days were more than fabulous. We had the time of our lives -- those are easily some of the best memories of college.

4// Graduation
On May 11, I graduated Meredith College alongside the group of friends I met when I was 18 and first began college. Ending this chapter of my life was a difficult one, and even still, I wish I could go back. College not only gave me an education, but a second home, the best friends in the world, and a sweet boyfriend. As my mom told me, I am very lucky to have had such great friends and memories that make me miss that part of my life.

5// Internship
In the middle of May, I began an internship with Liz Carroll Interiors, and that only fostered my love for design. Each day was a fun adventure, and I loved getting to know Liz as both a designer and a friend, as well as exploring something I love doing.

6// Wedding
My best friend got married over the summer, and it was an absolutely beautiful wedding! I got to stand next to her as her Maid of Honor while she said "I do" to her high school sweetheart!

7// Miss North Carolina
Back in 2011, I was first-runner up to Miss North Carolina (a dear friend of mine). It was both a surprise and an honor that I made it that far, but ultimately, I wanted to be Miss NC. I took a year off from pageants, and decided to go back, hence competing at Miss Wilmington. I was given the chance to go back, and unfortunately, didn't fare as well as the first round, not even placing in the Top Ten. This was a hard road for me, one that I haven't really shared, especially on here. In pageants, you are judged immensely, and while I was heart-broken at the outcome of that journey, I would not trade my experiences with the Miss North Carolina Organization for anything. I had a wonderful time this year at Miss NC, and loved each and every moment I was on stage. I've never shared photos of this little facet of my life -- so here are a few.

8// Job
On August 15th, I ventured into grown up land and started my first real job. I work as a media coordinator for an advertising firm, and every day is different. It is definitely a great first job, and I'm always pushed to learn something new.

9// Moving
On Labor Day weekend, I moved away from beautiful Wilmington to the Charlotte area. This has been the most challenging part of 2013, as I've had to break out of my comfort zones and try new things. The plus side? I have a cute little apartment and I'm not too far from SW.


Other Highlights.
I hosted a fundraiser for the ALS Association in honor of my grandmother. SW and I celebrated 3 years together at Biltmore Estate. My sweet family and I took a fab trip to NYC at Christmas. The blog turned a year old.


2013 has been quite the year -- one that I would never replace. There are so many more things that happened this year that I will never forget. While these 10 may not be the most important or memorable, they are certainly the most life-changing.

I hope you have a great New Year's Eve! Can't wait to spend mine with sweet friends. See you in 2014!

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Monday, December 30, 2013

Beauty Resolutions

2014 Beauty Secrets

It's hard to believe that 2014 is right around the corner. With a new year comes a new routine, and for me, I'm excited to try out some new beauty products. I was gifted with several of these for Christmas, and they were some of my favorite gifts, while a few others I chose to purchase for myself.

1/ Stila Eyeliner / This was part of a gift from my grandparents, and I am excited to use this set. I love the array of colors that are included in the set. I always use dark brown eyeliner, so I'm looking forward to trying out new colors in 2014.

2 / Sephora Makeup Brushes / I don't have this exact set, but something very similar (and they are pink and sparkly!) I'm loving this set though -- and how fab is the case that the brushes come in?

3 / Rosebud Salve / A friend of mine suggested I use this, and when we went to Sephora last week, I decided to pick some up to try. It's a must-have for winter -- perfect for keeping your lips smooth (and you can use it on your skin as well!).

4 / Estee Lauder Lip Gloss Set / I'm obsessed with this set, and the packaging is adorable, too. With 6 different shades, there is a gloss for any occasion. This is also a $125 value, so you should pick up this set while it's still available! My personal favorite is "Cherry Fever."

5 / Bed Head Control Freak / I love the Bed Head products, so when I was gifted this shampoo/conditioner set, I was excited to have new products to use. You can't go wrong with a good set of shampoo and conditioner. Resolve to healthy hair this year!

The new year is the perfect time to try out new beauty products and implement a new beauty routine. 
Any suggestions? I would love to hear from you!
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Friday, December 27, 2013

Friday Love

Obsessing over this Zara scarf! So many gals have been wearing it, and I am so regretting not getting it when I saw it in NYC a few weeks ago. (Check out the way Grace styled hers!)
My sweet BF takes notice of the things I love -- and this Threshold Bar Cart was part of my Christmas gift this year!
Threshold™ Wood and Brass Finish Bar Cart

Pretty sure I'm going to be ordering this Rifle Paper phone case from Layla Grace. How fabulous is it?

I'm sure most of you have already seen this, but this was another Christmas list wish I received! Loving Loren Hope's Small Sara Cuff.
How perfect would this Swoozies tray be for New Year's? Or anytime for that matter...I am definitely needing this to go along with my bar cart!

Happy Friday, lovelies! Hope it's a good one!
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Thursday, December 26, 2013

Merry + Bright









vest: forever 21 (sold out) / leggings: target / shoes: target / bag: tory burch / glasses: vintage Ray Ban aviators / rings: vintage turquoise (similar) and ippolita rock candy constellation ring / bracelet: loren hope / necklace: SHOPaSouthernStyle

It's hard to believe Christmas has come and gone! In my opinion, the Christmas season really is the most wonderful time of year. To say I'm sad about it being over would be an understatement, but it's back to work and the real world. For this look, I loved the contrast of the fur with the deep emerald green (merry + bright, don't you think?). I'm obsessed with this budget-friendly vest that I found at Forever 21, but they are sold out! It's fun to wear, especially on a chilly day.

Here's to hoping your day after Christmas is lovely!
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Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Merry Christmas!


Merry Christmas, lovelies! Thanks so much for following along! It's hard to believe Christmas is here, but I'm so looking forward to spending the day with my family - and the past few days haven't been too shabby either! I've been filling up on too many cookies, cakes, family time, and Hallmark Christmas movies, and loving every minute of it. Remember the reason for the season, and that it is the most wonderful time of year! 
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Monday, December 23, 2013

101 in 1,001

2013 Goals Update: Goals Vs. Dreams

Back in August, I created my own 101 in 1,001. Inspired my Mackenzie at Design Darling, it's a list of 101 goals to complete in 1,001 days (although a few might have to stretch past the deadline). I've been able to cross a few things off on my list since then and I'm working on a few more.

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Friday, December 20, 2013

A Merry Friday 5


It's Friday -- and even better, it's the Friday before Christmas! Things I'm loving this merry Friday . . .
(clockwise)

1// I'm so ready to give my gifts! I absolutely love buying gifts but I am terrible at keeping secrets -- so Christmas and birthdays are always tough for me!

2// I am heading home today! Y'all know that Wilmington is my favorite place on earth. I have to work a few days next week, so I'll be splitting time between Wilmington and Raleigh, but I'm thankful to have a few days off for Christmas (and I love Raleigh almost as much as I love Wilmington).

3// I get to see my sweet Soph today! Due to our NYC trip, I had to leave her home for a couple of weeks, and I can't wait to see that little fluff.

4// Yesterday was my mom's birthday -- and tonight, we are celebrating her! I doubt she'll be dancing on the tables, but how cute is that birthday display (thanks pinterest). I can't wait to toast to her -- and to many more birthdays to come!

5// Christmas is my absolute favorite season -- and with only 5 days left, the Christmas music and decor is in full bloom. This Friday, I'm mostly excited to get to spend time with my family during the most wonderful time of the year.


THE GOOD LIFE BLOG

We Took the Road Less Traveled
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Thursday, December 19, 2013

Styled for the New Year

New Year's Eve
Each year, I envision what I'm going to wear for NYE, and it never seems to be quite what I had in my mind, though fun, nonetheless. It's hard to believe that 2014 is almost here, but with less than a week until Christmas, it's time to start planning! I'm loving the idea of a fun romper paired with tights and booties -- and I found the perfect confetti clutch to go along with it (thank you, Kate Spade). Though I was originally thinking black, I'm loving the royal purple -- especially with the black tights and suede booties. If you're going with a simple black number, try pairing it with a pair of printed tights and some bold accessories.

I'm linking up with Khala and Sam today, so be sure to stop on by and see some other great New Year's Eve style inspiration.

P.S. You can shop this look right here!


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Wednesday, December 18, 2013

Fab Finds

     Steve Madden Flats / DiorShow / Ivanka Trump Puffer / Dior Lip Glow / Zara Leggings / C-Lective Herringbone Gloves

You can't go to NYC without doing a little shopping. Lord & Taylor and Zara were at the top of my list, but we visited so many fun stores that it was hard to choose just one. And, can I mention that I'm pretty sure the girls who worked at Michael Kors may or may not be models (they were all tall and gorgeous!) There were so many other places I wanted to go -- but here are a few of my picks from the city.

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Tuesday, December 17, 2013

What I Wore: Snowy NYC









jacket: Ivanka Trump / headband/wrap: Francesca's (similar) / pants: Target / boots: Hunter / boot socks: Hunter / 
bag: Tory Burch (similar)

I had the best time in NYC. Though I loved all of it, I absolutely loved playing in the snow in Central Park. I had been hoping for a little snow while we were there, and sure enough, we had about 3 inches of it! I bundled up for the weather, and though I was chilly, I loved every minute of it! I picked up this Ivanka Trump puffer jacket not too long after arriving, and I love it! I stayed cozy and warm (even though I look like a marshmallow). I'm also obsessed with my head wrap. I couldn't decide if I wanted to buy it, but I received so many compliments and was so glad I had it, as my ears would have been freezing! And, I felt very Gatsby, might I add...
Stay tuned this week for more NYC updates, including some fun purchases!


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Friday, December 13, 2013

NYC Bound


Good morning, lovelies! By this time, I'm probably already in the city that never sleeps -- my flight left bright and early at 6:15am! Since I'm meeting my family at the airport and we are starting the day early (to get the most of my trip), I dressed accordingly! I chose a thick pair of leggings (more like pants) that are super comfy but look great tucked in to boots, a cozy sweater, and my favorite boots (though both the Frye and the Vince Camuto were in the running). Both are equally as comfortable for a day on your feet and warm as well! In my bag, I threw my gloves, scarf, and head wrap in along with my other travel necessities (magazines, gum, and lip balm) so I'll be warm when we arrive. I also brought along my cozy coat -- though the one I'm wearing I bought about a year ago, this Steve Madden is very similar!


I'm so looking forward to the trip! Follow along with me on Instagram and Twitter to keep up with me while in NYC!

Boots (Vince Camuto, sold out)
Gloves
but also check out this one that I packed for that snowy weather!

Catch you next week!
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Thursday, December 12, 2013

It's a Blogiversary!


It's hard to believe A Southern Style is a year old! (though in some ways it isn't...) On December 12th, I was home for Christmas break and randomly sat down at my computer and started a blog. I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do, just that I wanted to have a place of the world that was mine -- where I could share the things I love with those who love them too. Since December 12th, I've explored all kinds of posts, experimented with new topics, changed the blog design, and more. Even still, there are so many changes to come!

I remember getting my first GFC follower and thinking, "I will never make it past 10..." I eventually made it to 10 followers, and I stayed there. For a very long time. And I was not all that dedicated. I let anything and everything get in the way, only posting a couple times a month. Over the summer, right before I moved to Charlotte, I decided I was going to make a more valiant effort at blogging, but what I realized is that it isn't a chore. There are some days when I don't feel like posting or just don't have enough time, so I don't. But most of the time, I'm motivated by something, even if it's the tiniest thing.

So, I want to thank all of you for following along with me and A Southern Style's journey -- I've absolutely loved all of the new followers I've gained over the past year -- and especially this past month! I hope you continue to follow along with me -- and I would love to hear things you love, things you hate, and things you want to see more of! I have some definite goals for the direction of this blog -- and I can't wait to get there!

On this blogiversary, I decided I'd share a few things about me. I came across this Blogmopolitan Quiz over at Two Thirds Hazel, and Erin happily shared it with me. You can learn more about me below:


I'm headed to NYC in the morning -- can't wait to share my trip when I get back!

For now, don't forget to check out the Winter Wonderland and Etsy Shop giveaways!

Here's to another year with A Southern Style! Thanks for following along!
Much love.



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Tuesday, December 10, 2013

The Wanted List


shop my picks!
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Monday, December 9, 2013

Color of 2014

I absolutely loved 2013's Pantome Color of the Year: Emerald.It's hard to believe that it is already time for a new color, and apparently, emerald is "so 2013" (but it my book, it's a classic). Though I'm not always a huge fan of purple, I am liking the 2014 Pantone Choice -- Radiant Orchid. Emerald is tough to beat, but here are a few orchid pieces that I wouldn't mind in my closet.


(clockwise)

Do you love the choice for the 2014 Pantone Color of the Year?
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Friday, December 6, 2013

Merry + Bright {Friday 5}

via pinterest

Now that December is in full-force, I find each of my days surrounded in some kind of Christmas cheer. It is certainly different being away from home this time of year (I am, after all, used to month long college breaks), but I've tried to bring cheer to me by decorating a Christmas tree, hanging stockings, and purchasing Christmas cards. This weekend, I'm headed to my little piece of heaven on earth (Wilmington, of course), and spending it with my best friends for a fun Christmas/Secret Santa/sleepover reunion.

Those gorgeous photos are 5 things I'm loving and finding inspiration from on this December Friday.
(even though it's going to be in the 70s today...)

P.S Don't forget to check out these two giveaways: 

Happy Weekend, lovelies!

 photo FFaves_zps6c1a013e.png 
Be sure to check out more posts from the Friday 5 link-ups. Just click the logo and explore!

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Thursday, December 5, 2013

Holiday Palette Beauty Review




Thanks to Brand Backer, I was able to give Studio Gear Cosmetics Holiday Smokey Eye Palette (c/o) a try. Well packaged, the palette features four different eye colors as well as a blush. I stepped out of my comfort zone a bit with this product as I tend to gravitate towards tans and browns versus charcoals and grays. Despite this, I thought the finished product was great.

Overall, I thought the packaging was both fun and efficient, with the pallette itself protected inside a decorative slipcover.


 Eye:
Glimmer // Gold
Platinum // White
Frost // Gray
Coal // Dark Charcoal

Cheek:
Snowy Glow // Rosy


The Holiday Palette includes instructions, and though I gave those a try, I ultimately stuck with my normal eye and cheek routine. For my features, the Coal was much to dark and clownish when following the directions given. I went minimal on the coal, only using those in the corners of the eye, and I used more of the Glimmer and Platinum and the Frost. To finish up my routine, I added my everyday bronzer, liner, mascara, and lip color before topping off my cheeks with Snowy Glow.


Final Review:
As a whole, I liked this product. Though I don't believe I'll use it every day, I will definitely use it for a girl's night out or date night. I doubt I will use Coal very often, but I will most definitely add Glimmer into my eye makeup routine. I was also a huge fan of the cheek color, Snowy Glow, and could see myself using that on a daily basis.

Studio Gear Cosmetics is offering readers a discount code!
When ordering, be sure to enter SGHOLIDAY before checking out and you'll receive 10% off!

Studio Gear Cosmetics:
Founded by industry veterans Steve Rohr and John Avolio, Studio Gear Cosmetics is a prestigous cosmetics brand featuring a full collection of professional makeup brushes, revolutionalizing complexion formulas, and a wide selection of color products for the eyes, cheeks, and lips. Since 1996, Studio Gear has been on set at hundreds of professional photo shoots, in the beauty departments of Bloomingdales, Macy's, Dillard's, HSN and ULTA, and also in the everyday woman's makeup bag. This is a line created true to the concept that every woman deserves professional, high quality cosmetics at a reasonable price.

This post was powered by Brand Backer and Studio Gear Cosmetics. The opinions are my own. 
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Wednesday, December 4, 2013

You Look . . . Like It's a Wednesday

That's what I saw in my gmail inbox this morning from Skimm.com, while I was still laying in bed procrastinating getting ready for work, might I add. And quite frankly, theSkimm hit the nail on the head! It's already been a crazy busy week -- but not necessarily in a bad way, when I reflect on it. I've had some Etsy shop orders, which I absolutely love, as well as a few custom orders for bangles, too (plug: if you want one, comment or email me -- I'd love to chat about it!)

I am so excited about what is to come for this blog -- in the past couple of weeks, I've had new opportunities come my way, just when I thought that my effort was in vain. I absolutely love my little nook here at A Southern Style, but it's so rewarding when people comment, email you, or reach out to collaborate! Tomorrow, check back for a beauty review thanks to Studio Gear Cosmetics and BrandBacker. Plus, I am so excited about another collaboration I am working on, which I can't wait to announce! Stay tuned for more details.

Since today is completely random, here's a fun find I came across at Target!
I've decided to send out a few Christmas cards this year. Why? Not really sure, but one from myself and little Sophie pup may just appear in your mailbox.


Happy Wednesday, lovelies. Hope it treats you wonderfully!
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Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Gift Guide -- For Him + Blogger Spotlight

Looking for the perfect gift for the guy in your life? Check out this edition of Gift Guide -- For Him! Whether you are shopping for your dad, your brother, or you boyfriend, these picks could quite possibly please! Today, I'm linking up with Elise from Cheers, Y'all -- and everything on this list (except for 1!) is less than $100!

Gift Guide -- For Him


I'm also so very excited to be featured today on A Southern Drawl!
(where you'll also find a giveaway to my Etsy shop!)
I absolutely love following along with Grace, so if you don't already, go check out her blog, and check out the blogger spotlight!


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