Features

New Year’s Resolutions

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Well its official…2018 is here! While 2017 was a great one for me – I moved, got a new job, and grew Brown Paper Doll, I definitely have some resolutions and goals for the new year. Here’s a look at what I hope to accomplish:

 

1. Stop comparing myself to other bloggers. Getting started as a blogger can be a rough road with a lot of learning from others who are in the same space. It’s so easy to look at other people and compare yourself as an indicator of where you think you “should be.” Whether it’s clothes, body, number of followers, I can become down on myself, envious, and riddled with self-doubt when the comparison game is played. It’s time to put an end to it. There’s a beauty in realizing every person is unique, and so is their path. I work a full time job, my style is different, networks are different. Simply put, I’m different. Part of my resolution includes spreading my story and my truth (the hardships I’ve encountered AND the successes) to help inspire others out there! There are so many friends I’ve met and fabulous women out there doing their own thing, that the blogosphere should feel encouraging – not threatening! And this year I’m hoping to find more peace in the process and growing at my own pace.
 
2. Be a smarter shopper! As you can imagine, my closet is filled to the brim. I see things I like, that I think would be a good addition, but if I don’t love it – I’m not going to buy it! Setting financial goals for myself are a big priority since I’ve moved out of New York, and taking a look at my shopping habits are definitely a part of achieving a healthier financial future. Does that mean I’m going to stop shopping? Definitely not. Lol It just means I hope to be a little more discerning, always using my GOLDEN RULE and thinking ahead to the future before I pull out my credit card.
 
3. Do more things that bring me joy! Laughter and light are so important to the mind and soul. In today’s world, it’s so easy to feel focused on work, blogging, responsibilities, etc. Between my full-time career in advertising and Brown Paper Doll, I often feel overwhelmed and stuck on a hamster wheel. Don’t get me wrong, I love what I do – but it can leave limited time for spontaneity, as I’m so focused on staying afloat and reaching milestones for both. This year, I hope to spend more time doing things that bring me joy. Maybe that means coming home from work and instead of working on the blog, it’s lighting a candle and reading a book. Perhaps it means more travel with friends, or going to concerts! I think working with a joyful heart and rested mind can lead to further creativity and productivity. In the end, I hope that this will help Brown Paper Doll flourish even more.
 
And there you have it…my goals for 2018. Everything is a balance, and I’m still trying to figure it out I guess. Here’s to all of you, to success, and to “figuring it out” (or at least trying to) in 2018! Feel free to comment below or reach out on Instagram (@brownpaperdoll) to let me know about your goals for the year! xoxo

Lust List

Mad About Plaid

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So my lust lists were created to document all the lovely things I’m coveting on a regular basis. However, sometimes they serve as great catalogs for trends that are truly of the moment. For instance, jewel tones during the fall, or the very covetable box bag.

 

Recently, one trend I can’t escape is PLAID! I love it! And don’t think it just for Christmas or winter – technically gingham is a plaid you know. Well, my personal favorite is a plaid coat or blazer, but lately I’ve been loving the idea of a breezy plaid maxi dress. Below is my favorite that I’m considering (now on sale) along with other perfectly picks.

 

1. Like I was saying…gingham is technically a plaid! I love this summery suit which would also be perfect to pack for a middle of winter getaway to a tropical locale. How cute are the precious ties in the middle! This suit manages to look vintage and modern at the same time!

 

2. A little plaid dress that gives off trench-coat vibes. I love that the slit and neckline up the sexy factor, but the length keeps it tasteful! Another plus? The pricetag! Can you believe it’s less than $50!

 

3. Because we aren’t out of the woods yet with cold weather, a warm and cozy plaid coat is such a statement. It’s still neutral but adds a bit of pizzaz to an otherwise simple outfit.

 

4. Talk about buying into a trend, but not breaking the bank! Plaid blazers are all the rage, and this one is perfect. I love that it looks more luxe than the price-tag and will go with so much in your wardrobe.

 

5. The cutest little plaid sneakers I’ve ever seen! I love that the colors don’t limit you to just Fall/Winter. Wear these in warmer months with jeans and a crisp white shirt and neckerchief.

 

6. The maxi dress I mentioned above! I can see myself wearing this with flat sandals on a summery day or throwing on a cardigan or even my leather jacket in the evening!

 

7. Plaid boots? Yes! How gorgeous are these? Wear them with an all black look for a retro vibe, or with ripped jeans and a cream or red sweater.

Features

A Very SPANX Holiday

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There’s no denying it…this time of year is the height of parties and events! Holiday parties, office soirees, family get-together, the opportunities to celebrate and dress up seem endless! And when I do dress up, I want to make sure that I put my best foot forward and feel glamorous from the inside out.  While outfits are key- I also think what’s underneath is another key element!

 

For me, I personally don’t leave the house for a special event without first putting on my favorite pair of SPANX.  Wether I’m looking to sculpt or smooth, SPANX helps my clothes lie better and ultimately makes me feel more confident in my special occasion wear. Recently I’ve been wearing favorites from the Power Conceal-Her collection that are so lightweight but also powerful. This particular collection combats my cellulite (yes, I’m not ashamed to admit I have it!) and gives me a flawless finish underneath my dresses! The power of this collection lies within the double-layer of shaping, so dimples and bumps don’t stand a chance. The effect is amazing, and I can’t imagine wearing my holiday looks without it! So this year, I thought I’d share not only what I’m wearing for my holiday events…but what’s underneath!

 

HOLIDAY

 

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While a little red dress seems appropriate this time of year, I like to do things a little differently! Especially since I’m home in Florida over the holiday, I love to go with a more unexpected style of holiday dress! Off the shoulder and more suited for a warmer holiday, this blush number was short, flirty, and perfect for holiday cocktails with my hometown crew! With my SPANX High-Waisted Power Conceal-Her Extended Length Short, SPANX kept my waist smooth under the fit and flare shape!

 

Power Conceal-Her Extended Length Short: SPANX.  Dress: Keepsake (Similar).  Earrings: Kate Spade.  Heels: Stuart Weitzman (Similar).  Bag: Chanel.

 

SPECIAL OCASSION

 
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Well getting dressed up isn’t just for the holidays! Since I’m back home, I find myself grabbing dinners with old friends and colleagues, many of whom I haven’t seen in years! A fancy dinner, tickets to a show, or just no occasion can suddenly turn into a special occasion. For those moments, I again turn to SPANX to keep me smooth underneath my outfit! In this instance, I’m headed to a dinner at our local club- and wearing a silk pleated skirt and cropped,  pleated champagne top! Since the skirt lies over the top, but it also cropped- I wanted something with a little more coverage. A SPANX bodysuit smoothed my tummy and bum, fighting both cellulite and panty lines underneath an otherwise finicky silk skirt. So no matter the occasion- SPANX has me covered, from top to bottom!

 

Power Conceal-Her Open-Bust Mid-Thigh Bodysuit: SPANX.  Top: Elizabeth and James.  Skirt: Tibi. Earrings: Natasha Accessories (only $12.97!).  Heels: Stuart Weitzman (Similar).  Bag: Saint Laurent (Similar).

 

NEW YEAR’S EVE

 
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New Years Eve means two things in my book- rhinestones and champagne! Im wearing a simple back dress for my night on the town, but topping it off with an uber-glam embellished blazer from Alice and Olivia! The best part about this look? I could wear either piece, the dress or the blazer, separately and for any occasion! I see myself wearing the black dress to work under a more understated blazer or to dinner underneath a leather jacket. I’d wear the rhinestone blazer with a simple tee and jeans for a more casual look! In this instance, I perfected my look with my SPANX black Extended Length Short to keep me svelte from waste to knee, which was perfect for the longer cocktail length of my curve-hugging dress! Plus, black on black- there’s nothing more classic!

 

Power Coneal-Her Extended Length Short: SPANX.  Blazer: Alice + Olivia.  Dress: Michael Stars (on sale for $79!).  Heels: Stuart Weitzman (Similar).  Bag: Chanel.

 

Thank you to SPANX for sponsoring this post!