Crouching Tiger, Hidden Pineapple

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On most days during the past 3 weeks, “getting ready for the day” has consisted of a face wipe, a new layer of deodorant, and the same sweats I’d been in for the past 24 hours. This might negatively affect your opinion of me, but I’m just keepin’ it real.

Last weekend I decided to actually get ready for the day, and Kristin and I had a picnic lunch on the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art. I brought along my flash cards and book of practice questions and actually got some decent work done! It was a much needed break, even if it wasn’t really a break.

And in case you hadn’t heard, pineapples are the new lemons.

Tee // similar Skirt* // Hat // Shoes* // similar Sunglasses (under $20) // similar Clutch (on sale) // Lips “Whimsical”

*Skirt purchased with gift card provided courtesy of Asos; shoes purchased with gift card provided courtesy of H&M.

Skin Deep

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I don’t even feel conceited when I tell you that I felt like a total babe in this dress. And for the record, it shouldn’t make any woman feel stuck up or narcissistic to make herself feel gorgeous and confident and to acknowledge that feeling. You hear that, ladies? Maybe other people will notice; maybe they won’t. It doesn’t matter. When I wore this on Saturday afternoon, no one told me I looked good, but I felt amazing, and I’m glad I have this blog so I can relive that feeling now!

Part of the reason I’m gushing so much is that it’s a pretty rare occurrence for me to wear something strapless, much less feel confident in something strapless. Or a halter top, or spaghetti straps, or even fettucini straps. I’m pretty insecure about my skin – it’s always blotchy and breakout-prone, and those things are a lot more obvious on someone with fair skin like me. So when my chest and back are showing, I feel self-conscious.

I realize my skin looks totally normal in these photos…I swear I’m not crazy, and I didn’t Photoshop these. We have some flattering light and a not-too-sharp focus to thank. You’ll just have to trust me when I say that this is a pretty special occasion and a pretty special dress. Since I love it so much, I should probably give a shout out to the company that sent it to me: Kika is a mother-daughter business in Los Angeles that sells American-made, eco-friendly clothing. If this dress is any indication, their stuff is insanely soft, comfortable, well-made, and pretty.

So. Life lesson of the day is: Wear what makes you feel great, and stop worrying about perfection. I’m mainly talking to myself here, but if it resonates with anyone else, even better.

Dress* // Hat // similar Necklace // Shoes // Sunglasses (on sale) // Clutch // Lips “Lip Bomb #2”

*Dress provided courtesy of Kika.