Review: Pūrlisse Radiant Glow Illuminating BB Cream

It isn’t incredibly often that I find myself raving about a beauty product, but once in a while, I come across some amazing brands and products that deserve to be talked about and shared! In today’s blog post, I will be reviewing the Radiant Glow Illuminating BB Cream from the brand Pūrlisse (pronounced: pure-lease). Before diving into the actual review of the product, I wanted to start by telling you a little bit about the brand and its founder.

Pūrlisse (Beauty Through Asian Wisdom) is all about celebrating being different. The brand aspires to promote healthy skin while helping every customer find their confidence. This brand is unique in that they combine science and Asian botanicals to create formulas that are truly effective and beneficial. What I absolutely love about this brand is that it is not just about the makeup; it is about having healthy skin. I also admire their mission to bring confidence to every person who uses their products. The brand sells both makeup and skincare, so you can find all of your new go-to’s from Pūrlisse! All products are free of GMO ingredients, mineral oil, paraben preservatives, propylene-glycol, petrochemicals, phthalates, triclosan, sulfates, and animal testing, and this is not always easy to find. The brand is also incredibly supportive of the “Look Good Feel Better” Foundation, which helps to support women who are struggling with cancer.

The Founder of Pūrlisse is Jennifer Yen, and she created the brand to celebrate her heritage and to appreciate just how beautiful it is. As a young Chinese-American girl living in Alabama, she struggled to feel comfortable in her own skin. She found it difficult to appreciate her culture and the beauty of being different. As time went on, she learned to embrace her heritage once again, and this is when she discovered part of her purpose: “To help give women a reason to believe in their own beauty” – Jennifer Yen.

Jennifer is a former actress, and she has experience wearing heavy makeup under harsh, bright lights. Of course, this is not the best thing for the skin, so she rediscovered her grandmother’s Asian beauty secrets, and this ultimately led to Pūrlisse. I found this story to be very inspirational, and I think many can relate to Jennifer’s situation growing up. Sometimes, we have to reach a certain point in life to truly feel confident in who we are and where we come from. It is amazing that what she failed to see and appreciate as a child is what launched her career in the beauty industry. I am very close with my family and I am so proud of who we are, so it means so much to see someone bring their heritage into their career, and to make it such an important part as well.

Now let’s get into the review!

I first discovered this product through Ipsy, which is a beauty subscription service that I frequently use. One month, I received a sample size of the Radiant Glow Illuminating BB Cream from Pūrlisse. I wasn’t sure what to expect; normally I struggle to find a foundation/bb cream that I like.

I was absolutely blown away when I first used this product! This bb cream is super light weight, which I love. Over time, I’ve started to really dislike the feeling of heavy/thick foundation on my face throughout the day. I really wanted to find a great base product that is perfect for everyday, and I definitely found it in this bb cream! When I apply this product, I like to use a beauty blender and gently dab it into my skin. The end result is stunning! My skin is literally glowing, and I love that it looks so natural as well. I almost feel as if I am not wearing anything on my face with this bb cream, which is so impressive! The bb cream does not have a scent, which I think it great because sometimes this can turn people away from using certain products. I am no skincare expert, but I think scented skincare/makeup can cause irritations for some people as well. I try to avoid scented products if I can, so if you’re like me, this bb cream won’t be an issue!

Although this bb cream is not exactly full coverage, it is perfect for everyday glam and that is perfect for me! It works best for those with normal-dry skin and even sensitive skin. You can also build this up quite a bit if you prefer more of a medium coverage. It also has SPF 30 in it, which is really great for the skin, whether you’ll be indoors or outdoors, and it is oil-free! The formula contains: Goji Berry, Hawthorn Berry, and Jasmine. It even contains light reflecting pigments which will help to moisturize and brighten the skin; leaving the skin to look naturally radiant! With daily use, you will even start to notice improvements with your skin texture, which is something that I struggle with. I’ve struggled with acne since my early teens, and although I’ve somewhat got it under control, spots still tend to come up. When I use this bb cream, I never feel as if it makes my skin worse or that it irritates any spots. If anything, I think that it does a pretty good job at covering small spots and redness. The benefits of the product include: improves skin complexion, softens and evens the skin tone, hydrates the skin, reduces fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and dullness, and prevents UVA/UVB damage.

It is recommended that you apply one of the Pūrlisse moisturizers before using this bb cream. This will allow your skin to absorb all of the beneficial ingredients. Then go in with the Silk Glow BB Base Primer; this will give the skin a soft and smooth finish. Now it is finally time to apply your Radiant Glow Illuminating BB Cream! While the first two steps aren’t necessary, it will most likely give you the best results. I always like to apply moisturizer and a primer before any kind of foundation or bb cream, and I can definitely see the benefit of doing so!

The only downfall for this product that I can see is that the shade range is very limited. I am not sure why this is, and it is quite unfortunate. I love this product and want to recommend it to everyone, but anyone with a darker skin tone wouldn’t be able to try it for themselves. I wear the shade “Light Medium” in winter and spring and I wear the shade “Medium” in summer and fall. If you have a darker skin tone, there are a few products from Pūrlisse that you can still try, such as their new Ageless Glow Serum BB Cream, which seems to be extremely popular, or the Perfect Glow BB Cream. The shade range is much more broad with these products for some reason. Another important thing to mention is that as the day goes on, my skin does not look as perfect as it did when first applying the product. While this is true for many foundations and bb creams, it is something that you may want to keep in mind. As I’ve said, my skin is a bit textured, so I just notice that the texture is more noticeable after wearing this for a few hours, but maybe this won’t be a problem for you. Remember: all skin is different, and the only way you’ll know how this product affects you is to try it for yourself.

If you are interested in purchasing the Radiant Glow Illuminating BB Cream, I will link it here. If you want to purchase any other product from Pūrlisse, I will link their website here. Since these products are higher quality, the prices will reflect this. For example, a typical drugstore foundation or bb cream could cost anywhere between $5-$10, whereas the Radiant Glow Illuminating BB Cream is $37 (at the time of writing this post). While it is quite a bit of money, I do believe that it is worth it. I don’t wear makeup every day, but when I do, I always reach for this product and I never regret it! Plus, it seems to last a while too, so you won’t need to buy it too frequently unless you wear makeup every day. I would recommend signing up to their newsletter on their website. You will then receive emails from the brand, and you’ll also be notified of any sales going on! The full size of this bb cream is 1.4 fl. oz. / 40 mL. The travel size is 0.24 fl. oz. / 7 mL. If after reading this review, you are still undecided on whether or not you want to purchase this item, you may want to try the travel size first (linked here). Plus, they’re just good to have for trips and getaways. (At the time of writing, the travel size is $10).

There is also a Rewards Program that you can join. Once you sign up, you can earn points to redeem products. For example, you can redeem points by simply creating an account, purchasing items, following Pūrlisse on social media platforms, etc. You can even refer a friend for money off a purchase. You can give your friends $10 off a purchase of $35+, and you’ll get $10 for each successful referral. You can find this under the “Rewards” tab.

If you are unsure if this product is for you or not, the Pūrlisse website can be very helpful. You may want to take advantage of their tools, such as the “Skincare Quiz” option and the “Build My Routine” option. These can help you figure out what products will be best for your skin. When using Pūrlisse products, particularly the makeup, you really won’t have to worry about it negatively affecting your skin. This is not only a relief to know, but it will bring you confidence when buying, applying, and wearing the product!

Overall, I think this product truly stands out and is so worth buying! I also think it’s important to support a brand that has an inspirational message to share with the world. You really can’t go wrong when buying from Pūrlisse, and I couldn’t recommend their Radiant Glow Illuminating BB Cream more! I am looking forward to trying out more from the brand, and when I do, I’ll be sharing my thoughts right here on Compass to Confidence (.com). Thanks so much for reading! Until next time!

Spring 2022 Outfit Ideas

After a little break, I am back to blogging! I spent the past two and a half months in England with my fiancé, and I am so excited to say that we are getting married this July! Life has been super busy lately with all of the wedding planning, traveling, and working I’ve had to do, but I have such a love for writing, that I knew I’d come back to Compass to Confidence soon, so here I am!

In today’s blog post, I am sharing five spring 2022 outfit ideas. Spring will always be my favorite season because I live for the warm weather and the sunshine! I love spending time outdoors and not having to layer up to stay warm. Where I live, it gets warm very early on in the year, which I love. This past winter seemed to drag on a bit, so I’ve been more than ready to style some outfits for the spring time! Let’s get into it.

Outfit #1

Florals and denim; a classic spring combo. I’ve always adored anything floral, and luckily florals always seem to be on trend. Of course, how you style them can make such a difference. I just love this little tank top because the material is super light and airy, so you won’t feel too hot, even in the sunshine. The floral print works so well with this top because the colors are neutral and the print is subtle. What I think is so cool about this top is that it actually has two different prints on it. Most of it is floral but the other part has very tiny dots all over it. I am normally not one to mix patterns, but again, the fact that they’re both neutral and subtle makes all the difference! The two patterns come together at the hip in a little bow. This tank is from T.J. Maxx and I purchased it last summer. Every girl needs a pair of denim shorts in her wardrobe! These are another staple in my spring/summer wardrobe. I have a blue denim pair, a white pair, and a black pair. For this outfit, I chose to go with the regular blue denim. These shorts are from Target and they are by the brand “Universal Thread”. I love these shorts because they aren’t too short or too long; they are the perfect length for me. I don’t really enjoy wearing denim with too many rips, but these are really cute and the rips aren’t overdone at all. They are also very comfortable to wear, and they go with everything! They are definitely my go-to pair! I decided to throw on my panama hat with this outfit as well. I wear this hat all the time in the summer, and I think it is so cute. I purchased this from Just Fab. Lastly, my shoes are from T.J. Maxx. I always prefer a block heel over stilettos, and these are really comfortable. The braided detail is super popular right now, and the light brown color is gorgeous for spring and summer.

Outfit #2

This outfit just might be my favorite! Both my top and skirt are from T.J. Maxx, which is a favorite store of mine for sure. This white cropped tank top is adorable, and I absolutely love the little twist in the front; it adds something special to an otherwise simple top. I also love to wear anything white in the summer because it looks SO good on a tan! The material of this top is light and it is very easy to wear. I paired this top with this gorgeous midi skirt. I have such a love for midi dresses and skirts, so when I saw this one, I instantly fell in love! It is black with little misshapen white polka dots on it. I like the slit as well because it doesn’t go too high up, but it is still noticeable and even a little sexy. There is also a little tie at the top of the slit which sits nicely at my thigh. This is currently one of my favorite skirts, and I can see myself wearing it all season long. I thought that a pair of black cat eye sunglasses would give this outfit a bit more edge, and for my shoes I went with a simple pair of black block heels. That I bought on Amazon from the brand “Madden Girl”. These heels lengthen my legs and bring me more confidence.

Outfit #3

This next outfit is another favorite! I love button down tops, and this one is pretty new to my wardrobe. I bought this on ASOS last fall, and I feel like I haven’t had a chance to wear it just yet. When styling this outfit, I knew that I wanted the top to be the point of focus. The beautiful pink really stands out in a good way, and the pearl buttons are so cute. What I love most about this top is the gorgeous ruffles on the shoulders and at the end of the sleeves. The way that the ruffles move and flow as I walk is everything! A nice collared shirt is a key part of my wardrobe all year round, but this one works so well for spring due to the color, material, and style. I decided to tuck this top into some black shorts. These are just a pair of flowy shorts, but on the sides they have some lace detail that again, makes the look a bit more sexy. They are easy to wear, and pink and black is a favorite color combo of mine! To go with this outfit, I chose to wear my adorable strawberry Kate Spade Vanity bag. My mom got this for me when I graduated from college last May. To this day, it is one of my favorite bags, and I am so excited to wear it throughout spring and summer. Since the outfit included two plain pieces, I thought my bag could have a cute pattern to make the outfit more fun. Lastly, I went with the same black block heels from the previous outfit.

Outfit #4

If you ask me, this outfit is the definition of spring/summer casual. I have to say, I do love to dress up, so this is my definition of casual may be different to others’, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! I bought this top white in Dartmouth in England at one of my favorite UK shops: Crew Clothing. You can guarantee great quality pieces at this shop, and the prices will reflect that. I did happen to find this top on sale when I went in, and it was the only one left. I don’t really wear yellow very often, but I felt like it was so perfect for this time of year. After a dark and cold winter, we need a bit of brightness and color in our lives! This is such a nice top because it is made of a comfortable and stretchy material, and it is breathable as well.  In the front, it has a sort of crochet look to it that makes it even more suitable for warm weather. I paired this with a new pair of shorts that I purchased from my favorite shop in the UK called Mango. I also found these on sale, and they are a classic spring/summer piece. A pair of beige shorts look so great at this time of year, and I really love these because the color goes with everything, and the length couldn’t be more perfect for me. These shorts can also be worn for so many different occasions and they can be dressed up or down. My crossbody bag is from H&M. I love the camel faux leather and beige woven look, and the gold accents are a nice touch. Although this bag was super affordable, I really like the little details on it. This is a go-to bag for me during the warmer months. It is easy to throw on and matches most casual or dressy outfits. For my shoes, I went with the same braided brown heels from the first look. I think the bag and the shoes look so nice together as well!

Outfit #5

Time to end this post with a bang! The grand finale is this beautiful floral dress. The light pink and neutral tones are so perfect and the lovely ruffles on the shoulders and waistline are very much my style. I will admit that maxi dresses aren’t exactly a favorite of mine, but this is definitely the exception! This dress flows so effortlessly and it ties in a bow at the back. Everything about this dress is so feminine and girly, and I think it is stunning. It could be worn for many occasions such as a wedding, a picnic, and even  a nice lunch or dinner out. I plan to bring it with me on vacation this summer, but I am hoping to get some wear out of it all season! Since the dress makes such a gorgeous statement and because it is long, I wanted to keep the shoes simple white giving me some more height. I went with a simple pair of nude block heels. Since black is a dark and bold color, black shoes would not go as well with the light colors and delicate material of the dress. These gave me the height I was looking for without making the dress look too short on me; it reached the floor without tripping me too! I bought this dress from ASOS last fall and it is finally warm enough to wear it! Overall, this dress and outfit could not be more me, and I am obsessed!

I truly love each of these looks for spring, and I get so excited to style outfits around this time of year. I have so much more content coming, but not just on my blog! I have recently started a new Instagram just for fashion and beauty content! Come say hello on my Instagram and tiktok: @the.elegant.edit. You can also check out my personal Instagram: @sacchere14. On both accounts, you will find my reel that I created for this blog post, showing me wearing these five outfits. Thanks so much for your patience and support! Until next time!

Encanto Review

Disney has done it yet again. Their 60^th animated feature has been an absolute hit amongst Disney fans around the world (myself included)! I recently saw this fantastic film and immediately knew that I wanted to write about it. I watched it once for enjoyment and because it was new and then a second time to take notes for this post. I am so excited to share my review on this film with you all. Let’s get into it.

Encanto is a story that follows a multigenerational Colombian family. A family that, on the outside seems perfect, but inside the Madrigal home lies brokenness that is in need of mending (but we’ll get to that later on). The Madrigal family was once blessed with a miracle, and each member of the family is given a gift once they reach a certain age. For example, Luisa is super strong, Dolores can hear from miles away, and little Antonio can understand and speak to animals. Then we have Mirabel, who, as a young girl was so curious and hopeful when her gift ceremony came along. The night ended in confusion and disappointment when her own magical door disappeared as she stood before it. This is ultimately where the story begins.

The cast of this film did such a phenomenal job, and many of them are new to the acting world, which makes this even more impressive! I was familiar with Diane Guerrero and Wilmer Valderrama, however I had never heard of any of the other actors. This film had been in the making for quite some time, and due to COVID-19, the cast did their voice-overs from home, and were coached over zoom! It just shows that despite challenging times, the actors were all optimistic and made the most out of the situation. The film was released on November 24, 2021 in the US, and has seemed to have mostly positive reviews.

This film was very different compared to other animated Disney films. For example, rather than focusing solely on one main character, we were introduced to many different characters and we were able to understand some of them almost as much as Mirabel. I believe that side characters are just as important, and they can even make or break a film. Well, these characters definitely made the film! They all played their roles so well, and their voices fit perfectly with their characters. I like that each character was seen as an important part of the family, especially toward the end of the film. Something else that stood out to me is that this story seems to have a much deeper meaning compared to older and even some recent Disney films. There were meanings and messages that I don’t believe Disney has ever covered before, and this is important because it makes it more relatable and honest.

My favorite part about this film is that is focuses on family. Certain parts of the storyline really resonated with me, and I am sure that many people can find those things to be relatable, even within their own families. I am someone who is very close with my family, and to watch this with them was very fun and enjoyable. This film truly is for everyone, no matter your age. It is a story for everyone to enjoy and learn from. I also love that it focuses on such a vibrant and beautiful culture that deserves to be represented.

Representation in Disney films seemed to be non-existent for a long time. I appreciate and admire Disney for finally telling stories of other wonderful cultures. This is so important in our world today because people want to see people that look like them. Young children need to see and admire people on screen that they can relate to in some way, whether it be their lifestyle, their traditions, or their skin color. It is also important because the world we live in is incredibly diverse, and we all don’t look the same. Although I have never been to Colombia myself, I find the culture and country beautiful, and I think that this film can open new doors for their audience. We can all learn and appreciate those who are different from us. Since the theme of the film is family, I believe that it can be relatable for most people. I am looking forward to Disney working on more projects and stories that represent different people from different countries and cultures.

Disney songs are songs that stick with you for the rest of your life. We all grew up knowing every word to at least one Disney song. In Encanto, we are introduced to 8 original songs written by the talented Lin-Manuel Miranda and produced by Mike Elizondo. Lin-Manuel Miranda and the team actually visited Colombia, where the setting of the film is based, and they studied the music there. This truly shows us just how much they wanted the music to be accurate to the culture. It also shows how dedicated they were to the story and film. Some of my favorite songs from the film include: We Don’t Talk About Bruno, Surface Pressure, Dos Oruguitas, and Colombia, Mi Encanto. The songs in this film are incredibly catchy, fun, and authentic. They will 100% get stuck in your head, but you’ll never get sick of them! Whether you know a lot about music or not, everyone can appreciate the beautiful songs that were created for this film.

Now let’s dive into the characters and plot a bit…

There are a few characters that really stood out to me, and I wanted to write in depth for them. First, Abuela. Early on in the film, we get to learn about her past and how she got to where she is today. Her story is very real, because many people have had to leave their homes and start a new life elsewhere. It is a heartbreaking story, knowing that she lost her husband, was left with three babies, and had to start over completely. Luckily, their miracle found them quite quickly, and the burning candle stayed bright and strong for the Madrigal family. The miracle allowed them to have a home again, and soon after that comes the town of Encanto. Abuela had clearly experienced a lot of trauma in her lifetime, and we see that come out in many ways throughout the film. She lived on edge; terrified that their miracle would somehow be taken away from them. She relied so much on the miracle and her family’s gifts that she eventually lost sight of what’s most important.

Since Mirabel did not receive a gift, it was easy for her grandmother to focus on other family members and even put them on a pedestal. Although Mirabel seemed to be strong and ok with the fact that she did not receive a gift, we quickly come to find that she is still confused and upset many years later. Though she is proud of her family, she dreams of having a gift of her own. She believes that she truly can move mountains, if only she was given the chance. After constantly getting rejected and blamed by her grandmother, she finally stands up for herself and confronts her Abuela. Toward the climax of the film, she tells her grandmother, “I will never be good enough for you”. She even goes on to say that her Abuela is the one who ruined the family, not her. Although she could have worded this a lot better, I think it was something that she needed to say, and her grandmother needed to hear. For too many years, Abuela was living in fear, and she forgot to show as much love and appreciation to Mirabel as the other family members, which wasn’t right. She comes to recognize her mistakes and makes amends with Mirabel, and this was such a beautiful and heart-warming scene. The tears were definitely starting to fall at that point.

We don’t talk about Bruno… but, we HAVE to talk about Bruno! Throughout the entire film, we get a very small glimpse into the life of Bruno, or at least what others thought of him. At first his character was very mysterious, leaving the audience to wonder what happened to Bruno. The issue is, how is anyone supposed to learn from the situation if they aren’t allowed to talk about it? The Madrigal family, particularly Abuela clearly felt a lot of pain from the situation, and she felt it was best to keep it quiet. In reality, they may have been able to make amends sooner had more people known about what truly happened. In some ways, Bruno was very similar to Mirabel. Although he did have a gift (seeing the future), they were both sort of the misfits in the family. They felt a bit misunderstood and at times, left out. Everyone seemed to blame Bruno when his visions were negative or confusing, when he was ultimately just having visions of the future and trying to warn everyone. They made him out to be a not-so-great person, so it was more understandable when he decided to walk away from the family. We come to find that all along, Bruno was living within the walls of the family home! If you were shocked about this, you must not have heard Dolores sing: “I could always hear him sort of muttering and mumbling” and when the family all found out that Bruno was there, she then confesses that she knew it all along. I guess when you can hear everything, there are no secrets! I absolutely loved how Mirabel went to find Bruno and that in many ways, they both helped each other. I also loved that Bruno actually left because he was trying to protect Mirabel. This shows us that although he was frustrated with the family and what they thought of him, he still cared and loved them. The reunion at the end was exactly what I was hoping for, and I love that there weren’t many words exchanged between Bruno and his family, but of course, he did sing his apologies!

Next up, I want to talk about Luisa, AKA the strong one. I really found Luisa’s character to be interesting and entertaining. There are also many layers to her that start to unfold throughout the film. At first, we see her as the strong sister, physically and emotionally. She’s always helping the people of Encanto as well as her family. What we end up realizing is that she actually feels a lot of pressure in her life. When Mirabel finally gets Luisa alone to ask about what is happening to the miracle, Luisa finally breaks (out into song). If you pay close attention to the lyrics, you’ll hear a cry for help. Luisa is actually terrified of letting her family and Encanto down, and she feels like she constantly has the weight of the world on her shoulders. A few lines from her song that really stood out to me include, “I’m pretty sure I’m worthless if I can’t be of service”, “I hide my nerves, and it worsens, I worry something is gonna hurt us”, and “Give it to your sister, it doesn’t hurt and see if she could handle every family burden”. Sometimes, we can look at certain people and admire them so much for their strength, not realizing that they may be struggling. Strong people, whether the strength is physical, emotional, or both, need a break too. They feel just as much negative emotion as anyone else, and that is what Luisa teaches us.

Mirabel was such a great main character. What I love most about her is that she is relatable, brave, likable, and that she loves her family more than anything. She was fun and entertaining to watch, and I think that she was incredibly strong. Throughout the film, I began to piece together why she did not receive a gift, and what her gift may have actually been. I had a feeling that the house was ultimately her gift. When everyone came together to build the house back together at the end, I got emotional as they handed Mirabel the doorknob that they made for her. In that moment, it was clear to me that I was right, and that the house was her gift. I think it was a moment of realization for the family, and it was so nice to see Mirabel get the love and appreciation that she always deserved.

I briefly wanted to talk about Antonio, because I really loved this character. Although his part was quite small, I think he was just as important as the other characters. We are introduced to Antonio very early on, and we can sense his nervousness and fear about his upcoming gift ceremony. I just adored the relationship between Mirabel and Antonio. It was clear that she really cared about and believed in him. Since Mirabel’s ceremony was the last one before Antonio’s, it was easy for us to understand why he was a bit scared. Not only was Antonio nervous, but I think the entire family and the town of Encanto were nervous too. No one knew what to expect, and they were fearful that Antonio wouldn’t receive a gift like Mirabel (not that this would really be all that terrible). It was so sweet of Mirabel to walk Antonio up the staircase to his door. Everyone is relieved when his door lights up and his gift is revealed; Antonio can speak to and understand animals! Childlike amazement and curiosity cross Mirabel’s face when she sees this happening before her. The family had a new and exciting gift.

The story of Encanto is so inspiring, special, and charming, and I absolutely loved every second of it! There are so many lessons that were placed throughout the film, and anyone at any age can benefit from watching. More than anything, it shows how pain and trauma can be passed on, and if you don’t confront these things at some point, it can put the same pain onto those you love. The family needed to break and have things fall apart so they could come back together stronger than before. Of course, the most positive and uplifting message in the film is that family is everything, and I couldn’t agree with this more! I think my fiancé said it best: “If you wait long enough, you can get the whole house, not just one room.” Essentially, patience is key. If you are patient and you remain grateful, you will always be rewarded in the end. Never give up, hold onto hope, and stay strong in your beliefs.

Thank you so much for reading! I would love to know what you thought of this film, so please leave a comment below so we can connect and talk about it. Until next time!

A Stay in Bradford on Avon

Bradford on Avon is the perfect place for a little getaway. I first visited in July of 2021, and I quickly fell in love with the charming town. This is a very special place to my fiancé and I. We spent the first twelve days of our relationship here, after doing long distance for just over a year. Tom and I decided that we would write this post together, because it only seemed fitting. This is such a nice town to visit, and you really only need two-three days to see it! Today, we want to share what a stay in Bradford on Avon would look like. All photos were taken by Tom and me.

_{Bradford on Avon}

Where to stay:

There aren’t a ton of options when it comes to hotels in Bradford on Avon, however we have to mention our favorite: the historic Swan Hotel. Each room is as charming and cozy as ever, and a stay at this hotel will certainly complete your little getaway! Room sizes as well as prices can vary, but overall we have found it to be quite affordable for our stays. You can add on breakfast to the cost of your stay, and even dine at the Thai Chili Restaurant located in the hotel! You can’t go wrong with a stay at The Swan. 

_{The Swan Hotel}

Where to eat:

When it comes to dining, Bradford on Avon has got it right! There is a nice selection of cafes, restaurants, takeaways, and pubs; something for everyone to enjoy!

• Ravello

You will be greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere as soon as you step through the door of Ravello. With friendly and accommodating staff members, you are sure to be well taken care of during your true Italian dining experience. Ravello has a wide variety of dishes to try, including appetizers and beginner dishes, as well as a selection of pizzas, pastas, seafood, and meats. You can expect your meal to arrive hot and with a classy presentation. The dessert is delightful, and we highly recommend having something sweet before stepping out!

• The Bridge Tea Rooms

1502 saw the building of The Bridge Tea Rooms, remaining almost unchanged to this day.
Quaint and characterful are the surroundings with low exposed beams and not-so-straight walls, charmingly intimate and classically British. Teas are the establishment’s forte, offering plentiful choice. Fine quality ingredients feature prominently, for both the food and the drink. The loose leaf tea is smooth and refined whilst the homemade cakes are delicate and delicious – may we recommend the Prince Albert Afternoon Tea with velvety Victoria sponge?

_{“Royal tea for two please!”}

• The Bunch of Grapes

Delightful is the word to use when describing The Bunch of Grapes. This cozy restaurant will definitely become your new favorite! Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there is something to be enjoyed. The Bunch of Grapes serve a great Sunday lunch with many meat choices as you would expect, plus a vibrant vegan option too. The delicious food is presented in a contemporary fashion but the ingredients prepared are familiar yet combine real dollops of flavour.

_{A tastefully subtle take on the classic roast, producing a creative aesthetic and a feast for the palette}

• Bread & Butter

Conveniently situated in the heart of town, Bread & Butter is the essence of British breakfast and lunch takeaway culture. With both hot and cold sandwiches made to order, it’s the kind of place where almost any known fresh ingredient can be served between two pieces of bread. Watch out for the traffic when entering and exiting the establishment, but the flavoursome sandwich products are well worth the dash across the busy road. Bread & Butter is located on the corner of the Swan Hotel car park, so a tasty breakfast on the go could be preceded by a cosy night’s stay in the historic accommodation. 

• Cassia

The light and airy vibe of Cassia draws you in from the street, welcoming you with the invigorating smell of coffee and fresh pastries. Providing the community with a popular modern café, a bright co-working space and a cool venue for events, Cassia offers a great deal to the people of Bradford on Avon. The new premises brings illumination to a side street and to the inspired users within. 

Where to shop:

• Made in Bradford on Avon

With such a beautiful town comes beautiful art. Bradford on Avon has a large group of local artists hidden throughout. Maybe you’ll walk past an artist on the street, or you’ll walk into Made in Bradford on Avon. This shop showcases work from around 80 local artists and artisans. This is an amazing gallery to see because there are a variety of items that are unique to the town. In this shop, you can find paintings, jewelry, ceramics, glassware, cushions, clothes, and so much more. We love that there is a space where people can come to celebrate, enjoy, support, and buy art from the locals. No matter what your interests are, you can find something to display in your home, as well as something you can frequently use or wear!

• Sassy & Boo

This has easily become my new favorite place to shop! Sassy & Boo is located in multiple areas including Bath, Tetbury, Frome, and of course, Bradford on Avon, to name a few. Sassy & Boo is the perfect place to go, especially on a dark and rainy day. When you step inside, your day and mood will instantly be brightened! Each rack is perfectly organized by color, and accessories are immaculately placed on beautiful tables and stands throughout the shop. Sassy & Boo is known for their vibrant colors, which brings inspiration to fashion lovers everywhere! I am now a loyal customer to this company and I own quite a few clothing items from them. What I love most about this boutique is that you are guaranteed to find classy and stylish pieces that are such great quality. Their items are moderately priced, and often times you can find great markdowns and a sale rack or two as well! If you are a fashion lover like myself, I could not recommend this shop more!

• Heather’s

Another great boutique for women! This is such a lovely place to shop, and you will be able to find very nice clothing, shoes, and accessories here. When I shop at Heather’s, I tend to get gifts for my mother or sisters because I can always find something that they would appreciate. In some ways, this shop is similar to Sassy & Boo. For example, many of the items are brightly colored or have a funky pattern. Everything is moderately priced, and I believe there is something here for any girl in your life!

• Piha

This is the kind of shop where you walk in to browse but end up finding something incredibly useful and practical. We have purchased a few items from this shop, and we truly do love it! Piha has everything from bamboo socks to Italian leather handbags to clothing and many outdoor accessories. I personally love their range of eco friendly bags. Their EcoChic line includes all kinds of bags such as tote bags, backpacks, cross body bags and more. These come in many different patterns as well; whether you like something a bit more subtle or bold, you will find a pattern you like! The best part? They all come with a matching pouch so you can easily fold and store your bags! This is so perfect for the girl or guy on the go! If you or someone you know is very outdoorsy, shopping here will be a dream.

• Dible & Roy

Dible & Roy is yet another shop worth looking around in Bradford on Avon. From adorable tabletop ornaments to quality chic furniture, this place has lots in store! Upon walking in, you’ll find products for sale in every nook and cranny but the shop isn’t overcrowded. Keep your gaze high and low for spotting a quirky gift and mind your step for colourfully upholstered seating! There’s something so charming about Dible & Roy, often providing great inspiration for furnishing your lovely home!

• Heaven’s Bazaar

A boujee and bijou boutique! If you need a little luxury in your life, Heaven’s Bazaar is the place to be. At this family run boutique, you will find designer and vintage clothing, bags, and jewelry, as well as some retro items. The window display is always decorated perfectly, and we, along with many others, always stop to take a look. Something that I really appreciate is that there is a very wide price range at this shop, so you can find something amazing for a great price. Plus, it is so fun to take a look at some vintage designer pieces. I also really love the jewelry selection because the pieces seem quite unique and special.

• Strawberry Blue and Cloud & Cove

Strawberry Blue; something for me and you! A cute name for a very cute place! Strawberry Blue has just about everything! They specialize in home décor and gifts. Once again, you will definitely find yourself walking out with more than planned, but it will be worth it. What we love about this shop is that it truly is for everyone. Whether you want to buy someone (or yourself) a gift, you want to have a quick browse, or you plan to completely revamp your home, you will find it all at Strawberry Blue. Cloud & Cove is quite similar in that they do gifts and cards best! They have the cutest trinkets, cards, jewelry, and home accessories. It is so nice to go in on a quiet day to take a look around. This shop seems to be popular with tourists and locals alike.

_{Bradford on Avon}

Sightseeing:

While it is so nice to explore different restaurants and shops, we wanted to briefly mention a few other things to do and see during your stay!

The Tithe Barn – One of the biggest medieval barns in England (built in the mid-14^th century). It is such a fascinating place to see. There is also a small but sweet gift shop as well as a little café to complete your visit. You can either walk to the barn from town, or drive and park on site.

Bradford on Avon Museum – If you are a history buff, this may be on your to-do list! Although we have not been in the museum ourselves, it seems like it would be a very interesting place to visit while in town. You will be able to see many historic items as well as learn about the town’s history.

Holy Trinity Church, St. Laurence Church, and St. Mary’s Chapel – We absolutely love stepping into such beautiful and historic buildings, and this is even more true of cathedrals, churches, and chapels. The Holy Trinity Church is the biggest of the three, and it is a wonderful church to visit. There is so much to appreciate, especially in relation to the architecture. St. Laurence Church is believed to be one of the most complete Saxon buildings still standing today. It is a very tiny church, but it is in such a peaceful location. St. Mary’s Chapel is the sweetest chapel on the hill overlooking the town below, offering an intimate and peaceful place to worship.

_{Holy Trinity Church}

_{St. Mary’s Chapel}

The best view of the town – If you’ve made your way up to see St. Mary’s Chapel, you have probably seen the best view of Bradford on Avon! Walk along the path, and right in front of the Tory terrace you can stop and appreciate the magnificent view!

_{The best view of Bradford on Avon}

Iford Manor Gardens (about 10 minutes from The Swan) – Iford is one of the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen. It is romantic, charming, neat, and adventurous. There is so much to see, and you could easily lose track of time there (in the best way possible). The gorgeous gardens are formal and Mediterranean. You will almost feel as if you have left England and are in Italy; that is, of course, if the sun stays out for your visit!

_{Iford Manor Gardens}

We hope that this blog post has inspired you to travel to one of our favorite places! We will always have plans to visit this wonderful town again and again throughout our lives. We just know that if you come to visit, you will fall deeply in love with it too! There is so much to see and do, and it is the perfect little getaway for a long weekend. Thank you so much for reading! Until next time!

_{Bradford on Avon}

Amanda Sacchere & Tom Patch

Yoga 101: Balance is Key

Hey everyone! Welcome back to my Yoga 101 series! I am very excited to share another post with you all because I have fallen in love with yoga over the past couple years. Today’s Yoga 101 is all about balance, so of course, I will be sharing three different balancing poses with you all. Balancing poses can be quite tricky, but not impossible! As usual, I will be going over how you will get into these poses, as well as how to stay in them. Remember that I am in no way a professional or expert in yoga. Keep in mind that I am still learning myself. Due to my two years of practicing yoga, I do feel confident enough to help others learn and grow as well. Breathe, take your time, and go into this with an optimistic attitude.

Boat pose

Today, we will start with boat pose. When we think of balancing, we often think of being on our feet, however there are many yoga poses that require us to balance. Boat pose is a great example of balance without using our feet. To start, you want to come down to a seated position on the ground with your legs straight out in front of you. Once here, start by lengthening the spine. Imagine that you are sitting against a wall with the best posture ever. Keep the length in the spine as you slowly tilt backwards as your legs come up and off the ground. Your toes will be pointed and your knees can stay in a right angle. Your arms will reach alongside your legs as your palms face inward. If you are looking to advance your practice, try straightening your legs. If both of these versions are just too challenging for you at this time, you can modify the pose by having your palms or fingertips on the ground beside you.

Tree pose

I remember a very important lesson that I learned in dance class many years ago, and it still helps me in my fitness journey today. When doing any fast paced turns or spins, I was told to stare at one spot in the room and to keep my eye on it. That way, when I would spin, I wouldn’t lose my balance or fall out of it. This advice is what I want to share with you before you even start getting into tree pose. Start by finding an object or spot on the wall in front of you (as long as this object or spot is still). When you’ve found an object/spot, stare at it and stand in mountain pose. Make sure to lengthen your spine, without sticking out your bottom. Stand tall and proud like a mountain. Bring your hands to a prayer position in front of your chest. And keep your feet parallel. Stare at your object and slowly begin to lift one leg. The lifted foot will gently come to the inner thigh of the standing leg. Make sure that your foot is not pushing into the thigh. You want your standing leg to be strong and grounded so the thigh can support the lifted foot. If this is too difficult for you right now, you can lower your lifted foot either to the standing calf or to the standing ankle. Never press your foot against the standing knee; this is bringing lateral pressure to the knee which can cause injury. When you are in this pose, remember to breathe and stare at your object to help you balance. Don’t forget to repeat the process for the other leg as well. This is in no way an easy pose, but it is a powerful one. Do your best, and if you fall out of it, come back and try again.

Eagle pose

This is definitely the most challenging of the three poses I am sharing today. Again, remember that balance is truly key. I understand that just reading about getting into this pose may be confusing for the reader, so please refer back to my Yoga 101 highlight on my Instagram @sacchere14 to better understand this pose. You’ll want to start by standing in mountain pose. Bring your arms straight out to the sides and then bring them back in, wrapping your right arm underneath your left. You will then wrap your wrists as well so that your palms are touching. If wrapping the wrists is too much for you, keep the back of the hands touching instead, or place the opposite hand on the opposite shoulder. Be sure to keep the elbows down and the forearms away from your face. Next you will come down into chair pose (I have written about chair in a blog post linked here). Find an object/spot to stare at and then put all of your weight into your left leg as you come to your tip toes on your right. Squeeze the right knee into your chest and then slowly begin to wrap it around the left leg. If this is already difficult, stay with the legs twisted but keep the tip toes of the right foot on the ground. If you want to advance, try wrapping your right foot around the standing left leg.

To this day, these are still poses that I am trying to perfect. It may be difficult and even a bit frustrating to learn these poses, but trust me, when you get it right and learn to balance, you will feel amazing! Believe in yourself, clear your mind, focus on your breathing, and eventually, balancing will feel like second nature! Thank you so much for reading. I am already looking forward to writing my next Yoga 101. Stay tuned!

Click here to go to my Instagram page. Here you will find my Yoga 101 highlight where I talk you through each pose.

My Best Travel Tips + Amazon Travel Essentials Part 2

This is part two of my travel tips + Amazon travel essentials! Let’s get back into it…

• Use packing cubes

I don’t know why I am so late to the party, but I am new to the world of packing cubes. Normally, I just like to roll my clothes and try to place them in my suitcase as neatly as possible. The issue is, when I arrive at my destination and try to see everything I brought, I can’t really find what I’m looking for. This my first trip using packing cubes, so I am very excited to get more organized! I don’t know if packing cubes actually do save space, but at the very least, I know they will keep me organized. I recently got some from Amazon, and they were super affordable. This comes with 8 different sized packing cubes, which is amazing for the price! Of course, I got mine in pink, but it also comes in grey. My plan is to keep similar clothing items in one packing cube. For example, in one cube, I’ll put all of my bottoms, and in another, I’ll put my tops. If I am bringing some thicker sweaters, I will keep these separate from thinner tops. I’ll update on the packing cubes when I get to England, but I am looking forward to using them.

• Store your makeup, skincare and haircare together

You might be thinking to yourself, “She just said she wants to be more organized”, and yes, that is correct. I recently discovered an amazing product that will keep you organized, but saves you from having to bring a million little bags for different products. Linked here is a toiletry/makeup bag that I purchased from Amazon. I absolutely love the fact that this bag has many different compartments for all of your necessities! I plan to bring all of my toiletries, makeup, and haircare products in just this bag! Of course, my liquids will be in a TSA approved Ziploc bag. This will make it easier when going through airport security (they often ask if you could take out your liquids and keep them separate from other products).

• Bring travel sized toiletries

Even though I am going to be in England for a couple months, I still plan to only bring travel sized items (for the most part). Chances are, wherever you are going is going to have a store that you can go to in order to buy larger sized toiletries. If you were to bring a full-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc., it is going to add weight to your bag, plus you’ll have to check it. Save yourself the hassle, and keep what you can travel sized.

• Jewelry cases

I have two jewelry cases that I like to use for traveling. If I plan to bring a lot of jewelry, I like to use a bigger case that can easily roll or be folded. I have one that has a space for earrings, bracelets, necklaces etc. On the other hand, if you’re the kind of person who likes to keep jewelry minimal, you may want to have a smaller jewelry case. I got a personalized one on Etsy and I absolutely love it! It is small, but it fits all that I need perfectly. By having everything in an organized case with different compartments, nothing will get lost or tangled up.

• A purse in a purse

I recently saw a great idea for the girls who love to travel with different options. I love carrying different purses and bags, but they can take up some space. One trick to this is putting your bags in other bags. This works best if you are bringing different sized purses. Start by choosing which bags you want to bring. Then, empty them all. You’ll simply take the biggest bag and put the smaller ones in it! It is such a genius way to pack and you can easily store this in a suitcase or backpack because they will lay flat. You can also use the biggest bag as your personal item, but still get away with bringing more options for your outfits!

• Bring an empty water bottle

While on my last trip to England, I purchased the cutest reusable water bottle. It is such a great size, and I can take it with me wherever we go! I recommend purchasing one because you are not allowed to bring any drinks with you through security, so by bringing this, you can simply fill it up at a water fountain or on the plane. Plus, it will keep you from drinking out of single use plastic water bottles.

• Layer up

If you are traveling in the winter, or you are going somewhere where the weather will be quite unpredictable, be sure to bring layers! For this trip, I am going in late winter, but I will be there until early spring. I will be experiencing two different seasons on this trip, so it makes packing a little more complicated. My plan is to pack layers, but also keep the colors light for spring. For example, rather than packing a ton of dark colored clothing, try to keep it lighter, like wearing nude, white, or even pastel colors. I will be bringing a thermal top, thermal leggings, and fleece lined tights, just in case it is still chilly. Luckily, I feel pretty confident in knowing what the weather in England is like now, and I know for a fact that it won’t be hot! It is my goal is to not overpack… let’s see how that goes.

• Bring a change of clothes in your carry on

If your checked bag happens to get lost, at least you know that you’ll have something to change into. If it takes some time for your bag to find you again, you can always go to the store to buy a few essential clothing items or do laundry more frequently. It may be a hassle, but it is best to keep a few small clothing items on your person because you never quite know where your checked bag will end up!

• Don’t forget your passport

My final tip is to triple check that you have your passport on you. Always keep this in a safe place that is easily accessible (you may need it multiple times at the airport). Never put this in your checked bag. Even if you are flying domestically, it is good to have this for ID. Of course, if you’re going international, make sure that it is always with you. I recently got mine off of Amazon, and I love it because it has a few card slots for any cards you want to carry, as well as a little pocket where I keep my vaccination card. My passport fits securely in its space.

Whether you are new to traveling or you are a pro, I hope you found these tips helpful. I definitely recommend looking into the Amazon travel essentials that I mentioned because I really love them and find them useful. Thank you so much for reading! Safe travels, and I’ll be back with a new post shortly!

My Best Travel Tips + Amazon Travel Essentials

In just a few short hours, I will be leaving for the UK again! If you aren’t aware, I am in a long distance relationship with my Fiancé Tom. Since travel is a bit easier now that the Pandemic is (very) slowly fading, I have been able to go back and forth to England quite regularly. Tom just experienced his first trip to the US, and after three months we are heading back to his home together. Traveling has always been a big passion of mine, and I am grateful that I have been able to do it all my life.

Obviously, getting into a long distance relationship means that traveling is going to happen more frequently, so after a lot of practice, I feel much more confident when packing for trips. Today I will be sharing how I like to pack for an extended trip. Packing can already be a pretty overwhelming experience, but for the most part, I really enjoy it! I love choosing which outfits to bring, and of course, going on a trip is very exciting too! I will be sharing some tips and advice that I have learned over the years in relation to packing for a trip. This blog post will mostly relate to flying, however these tips can work for any form of travel! There will also be two parts, so be sure to click the link at the end of this post to continue reading.

• Check to see what documents you need

Before traveling to another country, you need to do all of  the research you can! Tom and I know this all too well, especially since we began our long distance relationship during a pandemic when paperwork, testing AND quarantining was required. Thankfully, now we just have to fill out a couple forms and we are good to go! If you are not vaccinated, you may be required to do more than this, so keep that in mind. You may also want to do some research on how long you can stay in the country you are traveling to. For example, I can only stay in the Uk for 6 months, and Tom can only stay in the US for 3. Plan your trip accordingly, and try to avoid staying around that limit, it may cause complications if you plan to visit again. Keep all of these important papers together. I like to bring a folder with me, so I can keep these things there, and the folder can easily fit in my backpack.

• Check with your airline for baggage allowance

If you are new to flying, or you need a light reminder, always check with your airline to see what baggage is allowed. Typically, you can have a checked bag, a carry-on, and a personal item. Your checked bag will be taken at the airport and sent to your final destination, and your carry-on is typically a slightly smaller bag that can be taken with you to your seat and stored in the overhead compartment. Your personal item can be a backpack, a purse, a duffle bag etc. and can usually fit right under the seat in front of you. of course, you don’t NEED each of these. try to pack light and avoid having to pay for a checked bag. If you really want to bring a checked bag, try to avoid bringing a carry-on. I always recommend having a personal item so you can easily access things you’ll need while in the air, and also valuables will be on your person at all times. Remember that the size and weight of your bags matters, so double check with your airline to know what to bring.

• Check the weather before packing

Be sure to check the weather before you travel so you can get a better idea of what you’ll want to wear. If you’re staying for a longer period of time and you can’t be 100% sure of the weather, do some research. I always like to google: weather in (location) in (month(s)). For example, before my upcoming trip, I would search: Weather in England in February and March.

• Pre-plan your activities and excursions

Before you pack for any trip, think about what you’ll be doing a lot of. If you’re doing a lot of sightseeing, bring comfortable sneakers. If you’re going hiking or taking part in a lot of outdoor activities, bring some sturdy hiking boots. If you’ll be relaxing by the beach 99% of the time, some nice sandals will work perfectly. For this trip, I plan to bring my hiking boots, a pair of comfortable athletic sneakers, pointed-toe ankle boots, and everyday boots. If you are trying to pack light, try to find shoes that can be worn for multiple occasions.

• Know what goes in a checked bag

While every airline and airport is different, one thing is for sure: anything sharp should not go with you on the plane. The same is true for full sized liquids. When I travel, I always like to have razors, tweezers, scissors, etc. with me. When I pack my bags, I always know that these items need to go in my checked bag. If you don’t want to check your bag, you may have to wait until you arrive at your destination to buy these things. It’s better to be safe and to make your airport/flying experience as easy and stress-free as possible.

• Use a backpack or carry on suitcase rather than a duffle or tote bag

If you plan to bring a personal item or carry on bag, don’t let it be a duffle or tote bag. I have tried traveling with these things and let’s just say it was painful. It doesn’t make sense to bring these items because they only go over one shoulder. It is very common to find yourself rushing to your gate, and some airports are HUGE. You may find yourself walking for around 15-20 minutes just to get to your gate. Trust me, you want that to be a comfortable walk (or run). I understand wanting to look stylish when traveling, but I think that you can do this while still being practical. Last fall, before my second trip to England, I bought this beautiful backpack on Amazon! I love how stylish it looks, and it has many compartments and SO much room! This comes in quite a few different colors and color combinations, but I just adore the back and gray combo. There is a space for my laptop, my toiletries, my jewelry, and my water bottle with room to spare! This backpack is also very nice quality, and I love using it for travel. I recommend bringing a backpack rather than a duffle or tote because once it is on your back, you don’t have to worry as much about it. The weight will be evenly distributed rather than bringing your one shoulder down, and it also won’t fall down as you’re making your way through the airport.

• Lay out all of the items you want to bring

My first step every time I travel. I do this a week or so before traveling because I just love planning these things out ahead of time. Plus, it will help you to feel more confident and WAY less stressed! It is much better to know and plan out what you’ll wear while away rather than throwing a bunch of random pieces into your suitcase and hoping for the best. 

• Pack neutrals

I am outspoken about wearing neutrals lately! If you haven’t heard me say it already, neutrals will never let you down. By packing neutral colored clothing, you will be able to pair every item in multiple ways, leaving you with many, many outfit options to choose from! On the other hand, if you only pack vibrant clothing with bold and crazy patterns, it will be much harder to style your outfits. Unless you are in love with wearing a lot of color, my best tip is to keep it simple. Bring classic pieces that you can style in many different ways.

Part two of this blog post is linked here! See you all there.

Valentine’s Day Outfit Ideas

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and if you still don’t know what you’re going to wear, I’ve got you covered (literally)! I love this holiday because I just think it’s fun to spread a little extra love to those closest to you. Plus, any excuse to wear my favorite color! Today I’ll be sharing five different outfit ideas for Valentine’s Day! No matter what your plans are, one of these outfits should give you some style inspiration!

Outfit #1:

I truly love this outfit because it is not only stylish but it is comfortable as well! I decided to keep this one mostly neutral, but with the addition of my favorite color. To start, I decided to create an outfit surrounding this gorgeous top! I spotted this when shopping at Windsor, but when they did not have my size, I decided to order online and I am so glad I did! This top is just beautiful! The material is very nice, and while this piece can be described as somewhat trendy, I feel that it is something I will reach for very often. It is also very flattering on! It is slightly cropped, but with some high waisted pants, it wouldn’t be a problem. For my bottoms, I chose to go with a favorite pair of mine! These black high waisted flare pants are from H&M, and they are so incredibly comfortable. It’s so funny how flare pants have come back in style. I just love how these fit me, and once again, these are very flattering. I think flare pants also look amazing with pointed toe shoes, which is why I styled them with my black pointed toe ankle boots. To complete the look, I added a cute white and black bag that I purchased from Kohl’s quite a few years ago now. If there is a certain part of your outfit that you would like to stand out, try making the rest of the outfit simple. This outfit is the perfect example.

Outfit #2:

Fancy dinner plans? You can’t go wrong with a red dress for V-Day! Red looks good on pretty much everyone, and there are many different style dresses to choose from. Whether you like mini or maxi, sleeves or sleeveless, there is a red dress out there for you! Plus, if a bright candy apple red is not your cup of tea, you could always try a burgundy or maroon. For this outfit, I chose a gorgeous red midi dress that I purchased from Fashion Nova last year. I love the ruching detail all over the dress, and it is super flattering without being too tight. It hugs my body without showing off too much, so it can still look classy. The neckline is unique as well. Overall, I always feel very comfortable in this dress, and it gives me a boost of confidence too! Since it is still winter, you may want to layer up just a bit! I think that this black wrap cardigan is the perfect piece! I wear this so often because it goes with so many different outfits. Since the dress underneath is quite fancy, the black wrap cardigan pairs so well because it has a nice collar and it ties around the waist, making it even more flattering for any body type! For my shoes, I went with my go-to black block heels. These are from the brand Madden Girl, but I purchased them on Amazon.

Outfit #3:

This outfit is perfect for those of you who may not have anywhere too fancy to go, or you may just have a more casual style, which is just as great! This top was purchased from Kohl’s toward the end of last year. I think it is simple yet stylish and perfect for cozy winter days. It is easy to layer this piece as well if needed. Purple fits into the Valentine’s theme, but it isn’t too out there or too bold. It’s casual while still a bit festive! I felt that jeans went best with this casual look, and these are my current favorite pair. These are actually mid-rise boyfriend jeans (or in my case, fiancé, lol) from Old Navy, but they definitely seem to be more high waisted. They also have a straight leg, which I currently love to wear. These are super comfy and they go with everything! For my shoes, I went with my white and gold Stan Smith Adidas Sneakers. These are so cute and I think everyone should own a pair of simple white sneakers. These can be worn in many different ways, and they always look fresh and stylish when worn with the right outfit. To finish off the look, I added my adorable crossbody. I got this at target and what I love about it is that it is perfect for running errands, going to an appointment, or if you simply don’t want to carry a bigger bag. This easily fits your phone and a few cards, which is all you really need to head out quickly.

Outfit #4:

This just might be my favorite outfit of the five! It’s fun and flirty, and perfect for a Galentine’s Day with the girls or a fun date night. Off the shoulder tops always look very nice, and I love the mauve color of this one. I purchased this from Windsor, and I am obsessed with it! The simple details truly make this top amazing. Plus the material is comfortable and even a bit stretchy. When wearing tighter tops such as this one, I like to keep my bottoms more loose. So, I decided to wear this gorgeous midi skirt. My fiancé Tom bought this for me when we were in England at a store called Sassy and Boo. I fell in love with this the second I saw it! I love the cream color and the polka dots are a nice and classic touch. The little ruffles that go around the skirt add some layers too it, which is beautiful as well. This skirt can be worn during any season because it will look great with any top you pair it with! Whether it’s a warm and cozy turtleneck or a stylish summer top, you will look amazing! For my shoes, I went with these beautiful heels. I bought these at T.J.Maxx recently, and I just love the baby pink color and the little studs. Pointed toe shoes always look classy, and these are easy for me to walk in, which is a big bonus when it comes to heels!

Outfit #5:

For the last outfit, I wanted to share a more professional and classy option. I started off with a white turtleneck that I purchased from H&M. This is a nice piece because it is so easy to style and it is great for layering! I have such a love for turtlenecks, and this one does not feel too restricting or uncomfortable. I love an all neutral look (plus pink of course), so I went with a pair of nude flare pants, also from H&M. These are another favorite pair of pants! They are just amazing and they fit me beautifully. The material is very nice as well, and these can be worn for any professional look, however I would wear them to go anywhere! With this outfit, I decided to pair the same heels from the previous outfit with it because the light pink goes along with the neutral and soft look. In case you’ll be going out, I thought a nice pink double breasted jacket would be a perfect piece to throw on. This is a favorite jacket of mine because not only is it pink and super classy, but my fiancé bought it for me in England! He knows me very well, and it was such a thoughtful Christmas gift! The soft pink color completes the look beautifully. Lastly, I thought that adding a bag to the outfit would give it a little something more. This bag was also given to me by my fiancé, and I just adore it! I did not have a nude bag previously, so I was grateful! This one is on the larger side, so it’s great if you have quite a few things to carry with you. Plus, it has a pretty floral bow wrapped around one of the straps, which I love! The rose gold details are also very me, and this bag can be worn with so many outfits. It’s the perfect every day bag for the girl who has it all (to carry)!

Thank you so much for checking out today’s blog post! I hope that it gave you some Valentine’s style inspiration or in the very least, that it put you in a festive mood! Be sure to check out my latest reel where I show each of these outfits and how they look on (@sacchere14). Have a lovely day!

How to Establish an Elegant and Classy Style

Hey everyone! I am very excited to share today’s blog post because it relates to something that I am currently trying to do. If you read my 2022 Goals and Resolutions post, you would know that I am currently trying to elevate my style and build a classy, elegant, and feminine wardrobe. I know my style, and I want to express it with confidence, so I am changing things up a bit. If you have found yourself in the same boat, or you really feel like you need a change in relation to fashion, this post is for you! Today I will be sharing some tips on how to build a classy and elegant wardrobe.

Give away or sell what you no longer wear

I have always loved shopping, but I’ve discovered something about myself recently: I get rid of clothes SO often. I do this so much that I end up filling large garbage bags of clothes to giveaway. I am not proud of it, but I am working on it now! This will be your first step to building a classic wardrobe. Take some time to sit down and go through your entire wardrobe (including shoes and accessories). I like to stay organized with these things, so I fold the clothing into piles. Long sleeved tops, short sleeved tops, tank tops, jeans, shorts etc. all go in their own piles. Giveaway items will obviously be put in a separate pile. Once you’ve decided what you’d like to keep and what you’d like to get rid of, you can start to put things back in your closet. I like to hang items in categories, so once again, long sleeved tops will all go together, and so on.

Find your favorite places to shop

My favorite clothing stores have definitely changed over the years. I’ve recently discovered my go-to shops. A few of my favorites are: ASOS, H&M, Old Navy, Target, and Kohls. I find myself shopping at these places most often. Of course, this will depend on your budget as well as what you have access to. Not everyone has a ton of money to spend on clothing, so if this is you, maybe stick to less expensive stores, or even try thrifting! If you do have a bit more money to spend, you will have a larger scale of options, so choose your favorite places! A great tip that I’ve learned is to spend a bit more money on quality pieces that you’ll wear frequently, and less money on trendy pieces. Remember that you do not have to have a lot of money to be stylish. Most importantly, you need to be confident in yourself and in your fashion choices. When you are confident in your style, no one will question it.

Back to basics

Some may call it boring, but when creating a new wardrobe from scratch, you’ll want to focus on purchasing basic pieces first. This means buying some nice turtlenecks, button down tops, t-shirts, jeans, classic trousers, etc. Basically, you want to focus on items that will never go out of style. This is not the time to go and buy all of the trendy and new pieces (I’ll get to that in a moment). This is best because you will easily be able to style many of these pieces in multiple ways. I used to say that I did not like outfit repeating (and social media made this even more of a struggle for me). I almost felt like once I got a photo in a certain outfit, I didn’t care to wear it again. With classic pieces, you will have a variety of ways to wear them, so it won’t really feel like outfit repeating. Plus, if you find a great outfit that makes you feel super confident, why not wear it again and again?!

Steer clear of trends (unless you are VERY into them)

Trends will always come and go all to quickly. While they can be fun to take part in, they shouldn’t be what you base your wardrobe on. For example, let’s say you fall in love with statement cut outs. Maybe you’ll buy a dress or two with cut outs, a couple tops with the same theme, and the trend continues. When the trend starts to die and no one is really wear statement cut outs anymore, you will find that you have nothing else to wear. So you’ll move on to the next trend. I understand the excitement of buying trendy pieces (I still do it from time to time as well), but I would recommend taking part in trends once in a while. If you are the kind of person who truly has a passion for fashion trends and you really enjoy keeping up with them, please continue to do you! This advice is best for those wanting to build a timeless and classic wardrobe. To do this, my best tip is to stick to neutrals. Once again, you will be able to create many different looks this way. Plus, neutral outfits will always look very chic and put together. Focusing on blacks, nudes, whites, tans, taupes, grays etc. will make getting dressed in the morning super easy and effortless! When all else fails, go for a monochromatic look!

Stick to a color palette

I know I mentioned that neutrals are the way to go, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear colors once in a while! I would say that my favorite color combination is black, white, and pink. I would recommend wearing mostly neutrals, but if you love the color green and you want to incorporate it into your looks, there is a stylish way to do it! For example, if green is your go-to, try an emerald green top with some black pants and a black blazer. You can even match your accessories to your top. This way, your outfit is mostly neutral, but you still get to enjoy wearing your favorite color. Let’s say your favorite color is pink, like mine. You can easily throw on a white top with some nude bottoms and a light pink coat. This look will be very soft and feminine, and choosing a light pink over a hot pink will complete the look perfectly. It is not really easy to stick to a specific color palette, so if you enjoy wearing colorful outfits, this tip may not work out for you, and that is ok!

Keep jewelry minimal

I love the way that jewelry can elevate an outfit. You could be wearing a basic t-shirt and jeans and adding a nice necklace and some beautiful earrings can automatically change up the look! I would recommend sticking to one kind of metal, such as gold, rather than mixing and matching. You can never go wrong with a simple and dainty gold chain necklace and some tiny ear huggies. of course, a string of pearls will always add some class to your look as well. Always remember that less is more (in most areas of life). A gorgeous watch is a staple for me now, and my fiancé just got me the most amazing watch for Christmas! The can really add to any outfit and bring it all together. Big and chunky jewelry may be fun and trendy to wear once in a while, but it is best to stick to minimal jewelry for an all around elegant and classy look.

There truly are no rules to fashion, and you should wear whatever makes you feel happy and confident. If you are anything like me, a classic wardrobe is what you are hoping to achieve, so I hope you found today’s blog post helpful and inspiring. I will be writing more on this topic so be on the lookout for part 2! Thank you for reading!