Relaxed & Ready

I titled this post Relaxed & Ready because that's exactly how my weekends tend to be. We keep things pretty laid back whether it's hanging out with friends and family, dining out, attending an outdoor concert or simply running errands. Regardless of what's on our agenda, I like to be ready. Ready meaning, getting dressed for the day just as I would during the week.

As shallow as this many sound, both my mom and grandmother always told me to look presentable in public. Their piece of advice has stuck with me since I was little. Now, I am not saying there aren't some days when I don't get out of my PJs or throw on some yoga pants to run a few errands, but if I know I am going to be out and about for a few hours, I like to get "dressed". I feel better about myself, hold my head higher and am not mortified if I run into someone I know or haven't seen in awhile.

And when I say getting "dressed", that doesn't mean I pile on loads of makeup, strut around in high heels or slip into a swanky dress. It means I put on clothes that I feel confident in wearing, doing something with my hair and applying a little makeup.

You might be thinking that I am overly consumed with physical appearance, but for me it's about taking pride in the way I carry myself. Plus, you never know who you are going to run into. In my opinion, it's best to be relaxed and ready instead of running like the wind to duck behind a rack of clothes at Target when you see someone you know. 

In typical Thursday fashion, I am once again sharing a look that I posted on Instagram.

Top // Shorts // Sandals // Necklace // Earrings // Bag // Watch

It isn't anything too fancy, just an easy, affordable style we can all wear no matter our age or body type. This is my take on getting "dressed." What's yours? 

At the end of the day, whether you choose to wear yoga pants or a sparkly dress, having confidence in yourself should take priority.

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One lady that always seems to be have her "ready' game on is Carly from Lipgloss and Crayons. She and I have actually become great blogging friends. Her fearless fashion, fun beauty tips and sharing honest life lessons are a few things that I love most about her. And I have never told Carly this, but I have always thought she could be Jessica Beil's sister. I swear I think they look so much alike.

Carly is a school teacher (a super fashionable one) and has even offered some behind the scenes "teacher" advice for my own second grader. Her compassion for others is hard to find these days. And we have even shared a few secrets with one another, ones that make this whole blogging thing all worthwhile because of the genuine friendships that come along with it.

I mean just look at her, stunningly gorgeous. If you haven't had the chance to meet Carly yet, I encourage you to get yourself over to her place immediately. Whether it's to gain some fashion inspiration or to learn a few lifeisms, she will keep you coming back for more. This is one loyal lady, I can promise you that.

Oh, another reason Carly and I get along so well, she loves some Forever 21 too. In fact, she is giving away a $25 gift card for you to shop. I might just have to enter this giveaway myself. Good luck and make sure to tell Carly hi!

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