It’s crazy to think that 2016 is about to come to a close. In the spirit of reflection and looking back, I am rounding up my top ten blog posts of the past year. These are not the posts with the highest traffic, most comments, or best engagement. Instead, I simply went through the Style Charade “Archives” and picked the ones I love the most. It was tough to narrow them down, but fun at the same time!
Prior to a big trip or blog photo shoot, I do a lot of research for my outfits, murals, and street art. What I’ve learned over the past year is that I need to leave to room for the unexpected. I drove by this leaf mural and happened to have this skirt in the car. Seriously. I did NOT plan this photo shoot. Sure, it seems like I put a lot of thought into the outfit and wall matching perfectly (which I often do), but this blog shoot was unplanned and unexpected. It’s easily one of my favorites, since we were so lucky. Blogging is often like a career – it’s all about being at the right place at the right time (and with the right outfit)!
In my early 20’s, I toyed with the idea of moving to New York City. I decided to stay in Chicago, and it was the best decision of my life. I met my husband, stayed close to my family, and I get the opportunity to live out my dream job every single day. Regardless, I love visiting New York, and this is one of my favorite murals in the city. Plus, this dress by Milly took my breath away.
I’m a big believer that it’s better to be overdressed than underdressed. Sure, I still have my casual days, but I always gravitate towards cocktail dress over sweatpants. This blog post truly took me by surprise. I’m NOT surprised that I loved the layers (Cuddl Duds – SO good), but I was definitely pleased that I could mix dressy and casual pieces while still feeling like ME.
One of my favorite domestic trips this year was just a few weeks ago to Houston. First and foremost, I had the chance to get together with Carrie of Wear Where Well, and seriously left feeling like we had known each other for years. Her Houston Wall Guide made the trip seamless and wonderful. Her blog content is so authentic to her personal style – she truly sees the world through a uniquely refined lens!
This photo IMMEDIATELY makes me laugh. We had to wait for what felt like HOURS to capture images for this post on Nantucket. No joke. People kept crossing the bridge, and we could barely get one picture without someone in it. If you look closely – the bridge has wooden slats so my heels kept falling through the gaps to the point where I had to stand on my tip toes. Imagine us waiting… me on tip toes… cramps in my feet… all for a few photos. At the same time, we laughed the whole time, and it’s still a great memory.
Stumbling upon new street art is like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. I spotted this flamingo wall prior to leaving for France with Grey Goose, and it was love at first sight. So much so that I couldn’t wait for it to be finished to photograph it for the blog. The final version has big palm leafs and many other new details.
Blush was definitely my favorite hue of 2016 (perhaps of all time). This blush look from Bergdorf Goodman holds a special place in my closet. Bergdorfs has long been my go-to source for amazing designer fashion – they always know what’s on-trend AND timeless. I love that I can wear these pieces in 50 years and they’ll still look current and elegant.
One of the most difficult parts about photographing in front of street art and murals is having to say goodbye. Art often comes and goes in the blink of an eye. This wall was at the original Sugarhouse Studios location in London, and it was recently disassembled. I feel so lucky to have been able to see it in person, and to have met another amazing blogger while doing so – Natacha of Natacha Birds. She and her husband are the sweetest!
The Veuve Clicquot Polo Classics are my favorite events of the year. I was able to attend both New York and Los Angeles, and I loved the opportunity to partner with the brand and get dressed up! Even more, it was so fun to toast to some of my favorite blogger gals in each city! I’m excited for even more bubbly and polo in 2017.
Last but certainly not least, I’m a HUGE fan of accessories. I often feel that they make the outfit (and not just bags, sunglasses, and shoes). It’s so fun to explore new ways to infuse style into my outfits with hosiery and leg wear in unexpected ways. Thankfully, HUE always has the best options!
Thank you so much for reading and engaging with my blog this year. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the Style Charade Top Ten of 2016 in the comments below! Cheers to a wonderful 2017 ahead!
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