I drove to Dallas this weekend for a style blog conference...by myself. I wore this emerald lace dress that I found last minute at a vintage shop in Austin. I had already packed my "Day One" outfit, but when I discovered this feminine lacy number, my plans immediately changed.
I am not going to lie, going to a blog conference wearing a dress that was previously owned was a little risky. I knew good and well that most of the girls attending would be wearing the latest and greatest, but I wanted to stay 100% true to myself and my style. You ladies know that I am all about finding and sharing pieces that won't break the bank, look classy and polished and hold a quality that will last longer than one wear.
Vintage Dress (options here and here) // Forever 21 Wedges (option here and here) // Gigi New York Clutch c/o // Kendra Scott Cuff c/o The Jeweler's Wife // Kendra Scott Earrings // Wrenn Jewelry Ring c/o // Gorjana Griffin Ring c/o
Many of you texted, emailed and messaged me over the weekend asking how things were going. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for thinking of me and giving moral support. There were three blog buds (you know who you are) plus my husband and mom that got me through 48 hours of intimidation.
Yes, I said intimidation. I am a confident woman. I hold my head high most of the time. I am a social butterfly. I have never met a stranger. I can hold a conversation with a blank wall. That is the way I have always been.
This weekend was a little a lot out of my comfort zone. I went to an event where I literally didn't know anyone personally and was surrounded by some of the most successful women in fashion/style blogging. Was I honored? Excited? Nauseous? Grateful? Scared out of my mind? Yes, to all of the latter.
I learned so much about myself this weekend, gained an enormous amount of knowledge, met with some amazing brands, made new friends, had a few laughs, broke my favorite pair of shoes, drank a glass of champagne morning, noon and night (it got me through), grew tougher skin and was encouraged to just go for it...not for anyone else, but myself.
There were some great times with my roommates, delicious dinners with blog friends, group conversations, meeting bloggers that I have followed since I started, but many times I found myself alone. Wandering around, feeling like I was the only one there or even invisible at times. It wasn't the easiest feeling to swallow, but I did. I held my head high, focused on why I was there and reminded myself, at least a hundred times, that these two days did not define me, my life or potential.
My point is, whatever you are doing at this very moment; whether it is trying to grow your blog, career, relationships, faith or building confidence, know that you don't need anyone else to help you do it. YOU are enough. Stay true to yourself. I know that is so cliche, but really you don't need to follow the masses. You don't have to replicate. You don't have to be part of whatever "crowd" you think you need to join to make an impact or be successful. Follow your passions, dreams and aspirations because it is what YOU want to do. I promise, you will be fine. I was fine. I was actually better than fine. I became stronger and more fulfilled than I have been in a long time.
Reach for the stars, people! No matter how terrified you are. Try and not compare yourself to others around you because every single one of us are beautifully made and have something spectacular to offer. xoxo
On a side note, I did find a few options for the dress I wore. Some of you asked for details. Since it is vintage, I couldn't link to the exact dress, but hope you find something below that suits your style just as much, if not more. Happy shopping!
