Friday, December 21, 2018

The Perfect Plaid Skirt for the Holidays

The Perfect Plaid Skirt for the Holidays

The Perfect Plaid Skirt for the Holidays

The Perfect Plaid Skirt for the Holidays

The Perfect Plaid Skirt for the Holidays

The Perfect Plaid Skirt for the Holidays



You might not know this, but I am a sucker for loyalty and reward programs. I have a carrying case dedicated to all of my cards in my purse. I am almost embarrassed about how many cards I have when I whip one out at my favorite coffee shop. But hey, I love getting free stuff! One of my favorite perks to take advantage of each year is the Anthro Loyalty. If you are not a member, you can join online or in store. Take my word; it's worth it! In early November, I happened to pop into my local Oklahoma City store to check things out. This is one of the stores I love searching for inspiration, even if I don't purchase anything. When I saw this skirt on display, I knew it was meant for me. It is colorful, cheerful and gives off a retro vibe of sorts. I must say, I am glad I had the chance to see it in store versus ordering online. It did run small, so I had to go one size up. Next time you purchase something in your size, and it doesn't fit, don't be alarmed. Sizes of garments vary from brand to brand and style to style. Don't be discouraged!

Working retail throughout college gave me a certain empathy for sales associates. I go out of my way to be kind to them. I also always take the items with me out of the dressing room, on hangers, to the associate helping me. Heck, sometimes I even take them back out on the floor if they are okay with it. I knew that I missed my birthday month discount (by a few days). However, I really wanted this skirt, and it was full price. I went out on a limb explaining my situation and asked if there was any way they could find some wiggle room for me (you never know until you try). To my surprise, they were able to give me the birthday discount! I was so appreciative and thankful they did that for me.

One of my favorite months each year for putting together outfits has to be December. This month is filled with festive parties, get-togethers, and celebrations! It is a time where you can be bold with patterns, texture, and prints. December is a time to break out the red, green, plaids and sequins (if you are into that sort of thing). I don't want anything to feel like a costume, but I do like to play into the theme of this time of year. When I was working on styling this particular outfit, I tried numerous different necklaces before I landed on this one. Looking at it alone, you would think it was an odd choice. However, after I pulled it all together, I knew it was the finishing touch to tie together the colors in the skirt and the glittery shoes.

Whichever occasion you are dressing for this holiday season, I hope that you can find joy during this time. Here's to wishing your holiday is filled with love. I hope you get the chance to celebrate with family and friends — I know I look forward to doing that starting this weekend!




Tuesday, December 18, 2018

How to Go Grey Gracefully with Dark Hair

How to Go Grey Gracefully with Dark Hair

How to Go Grey Gracefully with Dark Hair

How to Go Grey Gracefully with Dark Hair


How to Go Grey Gracefully with Dark Hair

How to Go Grey Gracefully with Dark Hair


|| Wrap bodysuit (also available in dark seaweed) || Sequin Track Pants (also available via Rent the Runway) || Heels || Sequin flower earrings || Photos: Melanie Foster Photography ||

This post is something that has been a long time coming. Six months ago, I embarked on a journey. In June, I decided to let my hair do its thing. You see, I started going grey at 22. At that time, it was not a big deal. There were just a few hairs here and there. My hairdresser (and friend, Jordan) and I decided we could manage it with semi-permanent hair color and cut appointments every six weeks. Until about a year ago, that was working fine. My hair has always been pretty healthy (minus the time I pretended to be blonde in college for a hot second) and grows like a weed. I honestly could color it every four weeks due to root growth alone. It just got to a point where it was unrealistic — I cannot spend that much time in a salon chair. I do not feel like that many hours in the salon chair is a good use of my time.

Here is the deal, you don't get an award for coloring your hair, and you sure do not get an anything special for embracing your natural color. It is just hair! If I get to a point and I do not like where I am at, I can change it. Since June, we haven't done a thing other than a cut and a trim. Most of the feedback has been positive. I found the first four months to be the hardest. Random people have made comments to me while grocery shopping, mostly thinking I highlighted it grey to be trendy and cool. Most of them are older men and women joking ‘look honey, she paid money to look like me.’ I politely inform them that this is my natural color and I am embracing it with open arms. It gets a little awkward sometimes, but I try to change the conversation and make them feel comfortable.

If you are considering going grey with grace, I want to extend my support to you! You will have some people in your life that don't understand your decision, and that's okay. All that matters is that you are happy with who you are! There is an inspiring community on Instagram that I have been leaning into. Grombre, going grey with (grohm)(bray), is a radical celebration of the natural phenomenon of grey hair. They spotlight different women and their self-love stories. I am telling you, this is one of the things that has given me permission to love my new normal. I must say, my husband has been supportive of this 100%. I told him I was considering it in May and he said go for it! He has the same thought; I could always go back to being a brunette if I wanted. Growing older, we are faced with decisions about how we want to handle the aging process, choose whatever makes you happy.




Friday, December 7, 2018

Iconic Styles: Rollneck Sweater


Iconic Styles: Rollneck Sweater

Iconic Styles: Rollneck Sweater

Iconic Styles: Rollneck Sweater

Iconic Styles: Rollneck Sweater

Iconic Styles: Rollneck Sweater


|| Sweater: J.Crew (available in numerous colors) || Jeans: J.Crew || Smoking slippers: J.Crew (sold out) || Earrings: SUGARFIX by BaubleBar (from last fall) || Purse: kate spade new york (different style, similar vibe) || Photos: Melanie Foster Photography ||

Growing up, my mom had a fantastic selection of sweaters for the fall and winter season. A lot of them had shoulder pads, most of them full of color and silly themes, some with detail and others on the simple side. The best one might have been a Christmas sweater with different breeds of dogs wearing hats. From what I remember, she kept them neatly folded in a deep cedar chest. Each time I smell anything cedar-scented, I think about her crazy sweaters and it makes me laugh. I may not have a cedar chest of my own, but I do have fur and firewood private label Blue Volcano candle that I scooped up a few weeks ago at Aldi (and I know many of my followers did too thanks to my Instagram story PSA).  This fall, J.Crew brought back a style that was made extremely popular in the 1980s (it wouldn't surprise me if my mom or her friends had one like this).  Not kidding, I was so excited about this timeless style, I scooped up one in mustard yellow and another in oatmeal cream.

I spend a lot of time on a computer between my full-time job and blogging. During my lunch break, I like to take a pause (even if it is for thirty minutes). I pack my lunch, shut my office door and turn on Hulu. For the six months or so, my show of choice has been "Boy Meets World." Man, you want to talk about a wholesome entertainment — this might be one of the greatest shows of all-time. I watched it religiously growing up but I must say, I think the show might be more impactful as an adult. Even though I am not a mom, I cannot help but think of seeing this show as told by my future children. I have cried more times than I would like to admit. BMW had so many valuable life lessons intertwined with hilarious situations.

While watching this summer, I noticed this great sweater Eric Matthews had on. It was a rollneck sweater in a light evergreen color. It seems to be a go-to in his high school wardrobe. He wears it multiple times throughout the season, that is why I remember it vividly. You can imagine my surprise when I saw this sweater online at J.Crew earlier this fall. I think I laughed out loud and clicked add to cart immediately! You can wear it into the office, on the weekend or over your gym clothes on your way to brunch. I can't help but to smile and think of BMW each time I wear this outfit (especially paired with my pair of light wash high waisted jeans). Maybe next time I wear it, I'll post a side-by-side of who wore it better, Lindsey or Eric Matthews.




Tuesday, December 4, 2018

How to Style a Moto Jacket

How to Style a Moto Jacket

How to Style a Moto Jacket

How to Style a Moto Jacket

How to Style a Moto Jacket

How to Style a Moto Jacket


|| Sweater: J.Crew Factory || Jacket: J.Crew Factory (available in black faux-leather) || Skirt: J.Crew Factory (same pattern, different skirt) || Booties: kate spade new york (from previous season) || Necklace: kate spade new york || Earrings: kate spade new york || Photos: Melanie Foster Photography ||

Believe it or not, I am a little shy when it comes to trendy items. Let's take moto jackets for example. They were everywhere last fall, and they have bounced back for another season. At the time, it seemed like a risky purchase. I couldn't decide if they would stick around or be a one-season and done type of thing. Much like the teddy coat, they seem to have some staying power. You can find them at high-end retailers and lower price points. It's all about finding the one that works for you and your budget.

Before our vacation to Paris this fall, we took a trip to the outlet mall to stock up on a few things. Our main mission was to find Jered a few more casual outfits. Wouldn't you know it, I would find something for me! I took a moment to browse J.Crew Factory and stood in shock. When I saw this jacket in person, I knew I wanted to add it to my collection. I will admit, it is a little less edgy than the black faux-leather moto jacket (and I am 100% okay with that). The best thing was the price point! There was a promotion through the entire store, and I had a coupon from the mail, so it made it very affordable. I love this jacket paired with a black turtleneck and black jeans, very monochromatic and effortlessly chic. I love mixing camel and black — especially when I can sneak in a leopard print accessory to tie it all together.

This sweater comes in three colors: burgundy (which I am wearing), heather dusk and black. I thought that this red wine color was the perfect addition to my fall lineup. Even with the bell sleeves, it worked as a layering piece. Honestly, I am considering getting the black sweater as well. For one, I think it would be great under or over a few shift dresses I have. Secondly, it would be great with a pop of orange for an Oklahoma State University occasion in the fall and winter season.

Last fall, I picked up that adorable hot pink ruffled mini skirt from J.Crew. I was so excited when I saw the same style at J.Crew Factory. I thought that this pattern was interesting. When it comes to tops, there are so many different color pairing possibilities! If you like this camel houndstooth, you are in luck, it's available in a pencil skirt. This is a timeless piece that you will enjoy for many seasons to come.



Friday, November 30, 2018

Why I Wanted to Test Lavelier's Skin Care

Why I Wanted to Test Lavelier's Skin Care

Why I Wanted to Test Lavelier's Skin Care

Why I Wanted to Test Lavelier's Skin Care

Why I Wanted to Test Lavelier's Skin Care


|| Divine Day Defense SPF 30 || Skin Clair Repair || Coral Luminous Masque || In partnership with Lavelier, all opinions are my own ||

For the last 18 years, I have struggled off and on with acne. During that timeframe, I have taken Accutane four different times. All of that to say, my skin is less than perfect. If there is one area in my life where I struggle the most with confidence, it has to be my acne scars. That is why most generally I wear full-coverage foundation. In the past five years, I feel like I have been performing damage control on my skin. I want to age gracefully, and there are things that I can do now to help address that. Between my acne battle scars and years of lifeguarding, I have my work cut out for me! I am on the lookout for products that address discoloration caused by sun and acne. When Lavelier reached out to me, I jumped at the opportunity to test their Coral Luminous Collection! This collection evens skin tone and protects from harmful rays.

I packed all three of these full-size products with me during our trip to Paris. One night after dinner, I turned the bathroom into a spa (complete with a rose petal bubble bath). During my soak, I tried out the Coral Luminous Masque and let me tell you—this stuff is powerful! For best results, you should use it every four weeks. I am looking forward to my second mask over the weekend! It is packed with marine botanicals and seaweed extract to promote a more balanced complexion and leaves your skin moisturized and bright. I don't know about you, but this busy time of year I need all of the help I can get!

I love learning. I am always reading reviews, watching videos and listening to podcasts. The beauty industry is absolutely fascinating to me, I can get lost in a deep-dive! I think that our generation is expecting more from brands. And with the buying power of millennial women, brands seem to be listening! I believe there is an exciting movement happening right now. More brands are coming to the table with solutions. The Coral Luminous Collection is paraben-free and not tested on animals. I want to feel confident about the things I am putting on my skin each and every day!

Want to hear a silly story? When we made it home from Paris, I was unpacking and noticed that I left a few beauty products behind at the hotel. I was in a panic! I frantically emailed the hotel asking if they happened to see the three things I left behind. Thankfully, they noticed and put them at the front desk for me. They were able to ship them back to Oklahoma! I would like to pretend that this is the first time something like this has happened, but sadly, it is not. Ugh, talk about embarrassing! One of the items was the Divine Day Defense SPF 30. I left it out on the counter because I wore it the morning we left for the airport at 3:30 a.m. I was almost so happy I cried when I unboxed my missing goodies. Thank you to Lavelier for letting me test this luxurious collection!



Monday, August 20, 2018

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding

What to Wear to a Black Tie Optional Wedding


A few months ago, my husband and I had a chance to attend a wedding down in Austin. The invitation noted that the special occasion was "black tie optional." Upon reading this, I was giddy with excitement! Living in Oklahoma and working in the agriculture industry, I do not get invited to a lot of black tie events. This was an opportunity for me to serve a look from head-to-toe! But first, I had to figure out what the heck to even wear to a black tie optional wedding.

The first clue to decoding the dress code is looking to the invitation for guidance. Here are a few things to look for:
Where is the event taking place?
What time of day or night is the event?
How formal is the material and style of the paper good? 

By answering these questions, you will have some insight into what the couple is thinking. To me, black tie optional is a chance to wear a fabulous cocktail dress (close to knee length or longer) or an evening gown. Remember, you are not going to a nightclub or a New Year's Eve party. As a last resort, if you are still feeling stumped, reach out to the bride or groom (in advance) to get their feedback. I would love to say these things were common knowledge for me; however, that is not the truth. I have picked up on these things by listening to The Emily Post Institute's Awesome Etiquette Podcast. Special thanks to Dan and Lizzie for keeping me from making a fashion faux pas!

When I was searching for a dress on Rent the Runway, I was looking for something a little more over the top than what I would typically wear to a wedding. I figured this was as good a time as any to experiment with something I have had my eye on. One of the biggest perks about RTR is the ability to get a backup size for free. This particular designer is on the expensive side, so I was not sure what size I would be. I always take time to read the stylists notes and user reviews before ordering. Since the dress is a little extra, I decided to keep things simple with my hair, makeup, and jewelry. By doing those things, I could pair it with a great statement shoe.

Speaking of shoes, during the wedding reception, I had a horrible shoe mishap. One of my high heels came apart out on the dance floor! It's funny now, but during the time I was not laughing. During this long weekend trip, I only packed three pairs of shoes (shocker, I know). Thank goodness I had a neutral heel back in my hotel room. I made a quick dash from the venue to the hotel and swapped out shoes. We happened to shoot this look after that wedding. My heels were not yet repaired, so I opted for these seafoam green heels. I thought they paired nicely with the floral-embroidered lace. I have never received so many compliments from random strangers. People in the hotel lobby and bar were even approaching me telling me how beautiful I looked. I felt like a modern-day princess, twirling the night away on the dance floor.




Friday, July 6, 2018

Oklahoma City Restaurant Review: The Metro Diner

Oklahoma City Restaurant Review: The Metro Diner

Oklahoma City Restaurant Review: The Metro Diner

Oklahoma City Restaurant Review: The Metro Diner

Oklahoma City Restaurant Review: The Metro Diner

Oklahoma City Restaurant Review: The Metro Diner

|| Jumpsuit: La Vie Rebecca Taylor (own or rent) || Flats: kate spade new york || Earrings:  SugarFix by BaubleBar || Ring: Tiffany & Co. || Restaurant Review: [gift card c/o The Metro Diner]

After a long week at the office, Jered and I have two options on a Friday night: dinner out on the town or a night at home watching Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. I would almost put money on it, we have seen every single episode! When we travel, we love checking out places that have been highlighted on DDD. We get really excited when there is a place in Oklahoma! Recently, The Metro Diner opened in our neighborhood; it's less than five miles away from our house! They are an old-fashioned diner focused on the classic dishes with a few modern twists sprinkled in. Their food is hand-made with love and served with a smile!

Before the grand opening, they reached out to me to make a visit in exchange for a blog post. Now it was time to do my research! Thanks to, Brittni, one of my old co-workers (and dear friend), I always look at the menu before visiting a restaurant for the first time. That is when I realized that one of their locations was on DDD! You can only imagine how much I freaked out, I think I may have even squealed out loud. I couldn't wait to have the chance to check out this place and share my review with you!

Everyone has his or her own idea of what comfort food is. It varies from person to person; we each have different experiences and memories to draw upon. My comfort food dish is pot roast. Now, I know that may sound unusual, but hear me out. When I was younger, my family had lunch together each Sunday after church, before working cattle. We probably had pot roast two times a month (more or less depending on the season). That meal was complete with the vegetables, mashed potatoes, brown gravy and some type of bread. That meal is like a hug for my soul. As odd as this may sound, it makes me feel connected to my past. It doesn't matter if its 90 degrees out I crave this dish year-round! When I saw it on the menu at The Metro Diner, I knew I had to give it a try. I held it to a very high standard and I must say, it did not disappoint!

My friend, Azure and her daughter, Kirby, tagged along as my dinner guests. We had a great evening of catching up! Kirby girl is growing like a weed! Azure ordered the Chicken Pot Pie. Kirby had the best of both worlds because she sampled a little of both. During our visit, our waitresses took such good care of us, their attention to detail was appreciated! They made us feel warm and welcome. I cannot wait to go back and check out their breakfast options. The cinnamon roll pancakes have my name written all over it! When you visit, make sure to let me know what you ordered.




Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Pure Barre Edmond Promo Code July 2018

Pure Barre Edmond Promo Code July 2018

Pure Barre Edmond Promo Code July 2018

Pure Barre Edmond Promo Code July 2018

Pure Barre Edmond Promo Code July 2018

Pure Barre Edmond Promo Code July 2018

|| Top: Beyond Yoga (sold out) || Pants: lululemon || Flats: kate spade new york (from a few summers ago) || Earrings: Tiffany & Co. || Ring: Tiffany & Co. || Bracelets: Teleties || Water Bottle: Contigo [c/o] || Photos: Melanie Foster Photography ||

Last July, I took a chance and made an investment in myself. I made a massive switch in my workout routine. I said goodbye to my personal trainer and hello to Pure Barre. If you have followed me on social media for some time now, you know my obsession with PB runs deep. Over the past 12 months, I have seen significant changes in my body but also my headspace. I have lost inches, gained muscle and found a productive way to let go of stress and tune out the world, one hour at a time.

I have received numerous direct messages and in-person questions about Pure Barre Edmond. I thought I would take a moment to answer a few of them. 

Q: I wasn't on the pom or cheerleading squad, can I figure this out?
A: Absolutely! There is no reason for you to feel nervous, anyone can do this workout. Before your first class, you will arrive 15 minutes early to get a one-on-one session with the instructor. You will need to come with socks (you could borrow sticky socks from a friend or purchase some) and a bottle of water. You will take your shoes off and put on your socks before you enter the studio. There are lockers in the back where you can place your personal items. She will walk you through terminology and give you a rundown of class. There is usually another instructor taking the class, they are great to keep an eye on as well. Try to be in the front row so you can get a good view and hear the instructions clearly. Don't be scared, the class is a bit fast paced at times (you gotta get your heart rate up).

Q: What if I haven't worked out in years?
A: That's okay! Pure Barre is a place that all ages, body types and skill level are welcome. I kid you not when I say this is a place of zero judgment! The women surrounding you in class will become some of your greatest cheerleaders and friends. The Pure Barre studio is not only a place to work out, but to also grow your community of supportive and encouraging women. We celebrate the small and big victories! If you remember, when I started class, I did all of my pushups on my knees. One day, one of the instructors pushed me to stay on my toes the entire time. Honestly, I didn't think I could do it! I was so shocked and proud of myself, I was beaming the whole 55 minutes! You will learn that you are so much stronger than what you think you are!

Q: Pure Barre seems expensive, can I afford it?
A: I look at classes as an investment. Since this is the only gym and membership I have, I consider it worth it. I have the monthly unlimited option, when I did the math and cost breakdown per class, this option made the most sense for me. Pure Barre Edmond is currently running a promotion for new clients (until July 31, 2018)! You can save $30 off your first month of classes. Instead of $99, you pay $69 for a month of unlimited classes! If you (or know someone who would be) are interested, you can purchase a membership online, here. When you check out, use promo code: lindseypb30 to save.

I hope to see you soon! Before you know it, you will be signing your name to the 100th class bar in the lobby.



Tuesday, June 19, 2018

Best Paper Planner for Work

Best Paper Planner for Work

Best Paper Planner for Work

Best Paper Planner for Work

Best Paper Planner for Work

Best Paper Planner for Work

|| Top: J.Crew (from about five years ago) || Pants: J.Crew (also available in navy and charcoal) || Heels: kate spade new york (sold out in black, available in silver glitter) || Earrings: J.Crew (spring 2018) || Ring: Tiffany & Co. || Photos: Melanie Foster Photography ||

I have worked in the digital media sector now for a little over five years. That being said, almost all aspects of my life are on the computer. Since leaving my hometown, I also have turned into a tiny environmentalist (I like to limit my paper waste). However, two things in my life are paper constants: a yearly planner and greeting cards. I am a digital girl who loves a paper planner.

Last month, I wrapped up my fourth consecutive year of using a Day Designer. I started using this planner a few years ago when I was working at Koch Communications. I have yet to find something better that meets my needs as a millennial girl-on-the-go. I find that this daily agenda helps set up my day for success! Before my day gets too crazy, I like to take about five to ten minutes to map out my day. It gives me a moment to prioritize and set the mood.

Here are the main reasons why I keep coming back to this planner year to year. First and foremost, each weekday has a workspace page. There you will see: today's top three, due, dollars, dinner, don't forget, today schedule (5:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.), 17 individual lines for you to write in to-dos, a small note section and daily gratitude. You will find that these pages have so much meat to them! I have had some friends find it overwhelming. As someone who schedules out her day meticulously, this helps me feel put together and organized.

If you choose to adopt this planner, you can find a system that works for you. On the month-at-a-glance, I love to add a little flair and fun. This is where I note birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, coffee dates, Barklynn's grooming appointments, manicures/pedicures and haircuts. When we get an invitation to attend an event or someone wants to hang out, this is the page I flip to. I can easily see if I am out of pocket or make plans accordingly. Last year, I found an Etsy shop with darling gold foil stickers to add some flair to my stark white pages. For three years, I had a pretty intense color-coding system where I used different colors of washi tape. Over the past year, I have been a little more relaxed and not as structured in that way.

My planner goes everywhere with me, we are attached at the hip! Last year, I made the splurge and treated myself to the spotty dot planner cover. I did this for two reasons, to give me more space and to keep my planner from getting scratched. In the inside of the cover, I can place mail and other essential items. There is a zipper compartment, that's where I keep my gold foil stickers and forever stamps. There is also a place for a pen, but I do not use it. Speaking of pens, I am a big fan of the Pilot Precise V7 RT. My husband introduced me to them, and I haven't put one down since. They are so smooth and dry quickly for an ink pen.

If you are feeling disorganized or frustrated with your current planner, I hope you look into the Day Designer.