What Would You Change About Your Body?

Commercials. Magazines. Billboards. Social media. 

Throughout the day, we're exposed to thousands of images and messages. Maybe millions, if you work in a digital field like I do.

While we might not realize it at the time, those messages become ingrained in us, and often make us feel less-than. I love being inspired by others, but when's the last time you focused on how you felt more than how you looked?

This awesome video from Jubilee Project  needs to be seen. 

November is usually a month that is filled with gratitude. Maybe take a moment today and think of something about your body that you're thankful for.

I'll go first:  I'm grateful that my body still works. Processed food, crash diets, gallons of coffee instead of meals, alcohol-filled weekends, diet pills, and all-nighters have all been a part of my life, and yet my body still gets up in the morning and does whatever I need it to do.  I'm focusing on health more now than ever before, and being rewarded by seeing my body do things it never could.

 It's worthwhile to take care of yourself. It's important. And being grateful for where you are, right this second, doesn't hinder progress.

Although, like the little girl in the video, I would appreciate having a mermaid tail.

xx,

Rachel

Plaid love

There are some patterns that just scream cozy to me. Plaid is one of those. I love these looks:

source: theirishrosebud.blogspot.com

source: rstyle.me

source: thatstylishgirl.com

source: afabulousfeteblog.com

Do you break out your plaid in the fall, or wear it year-round?

xx,

Rachel

In other words

Sometimes, Mondays are hard.

And sometimes, quotes make them easier. Here are some words inspiring me lately:

You can follow my quote board on  Pinterest for more!

xx,

Rachel

Thursday Inspiration

Hi friends,

Today's post is pretty simple. Found a quote that spoke to me, and wanted to share - in case it speaks to you, too.  Have a lovely day.

xx,

Rachel

The 2-minute Morning Rituals that Improve My Day

I often tell people I'm a morning person by nature. Lately though, I've been wondering how much of my happiness in the mornings can be attributed to personality, and how much is due to preparation. I love my morning ritual because it sets me up for all-day success.

Lemon water

Right after I wake up, I pop a mug of filtered water in the microwave, then cut a lemon in half and add the juice. I used to skip lemon water in favor of coffee, but since committing to this habit, I feel so much more refreshed in the morning. I still enjoy my coffee once I get to the office, but I've completely stopped making it in my apartment during the week - a major morning time saver for me.

The Skimm

I like to read the latest news in the morning, both so that my brain is a little jump-started, and so that I am knowledgeable when I run into senior executives at the office coffee machine. The Skimm presents the headlines in an entertaining, informative, and easy to navigate format. Bonus: It arrives in my inbox at 6 a.m., so it's ready for me when I wake up. Sign up here! 

Leaving early

I loathe being late. Leaving for work just a couple minutes early ensures that I arrive feeling ready to tackle the day, instead of flustered. I set everything that I need to take to work by the door as I'm getting ready to avoid a last-minute scramble.

What do you do in the morning to start your day off right? I want to know!

xx,

Rachel

Pajama Pants

Meet my new favorite lounge pants, courtesy of PJ Pan.

As my long-time readers might recall, I have a special love for sleepwear. As much as I enjoy my old sorority sweatshirts, nothing beats slipping into beautiful fabrics with a flawless fit. I love the light, preppy stripes on my pair. I'm also planning on picking up this pair of girly shorts - perfect for summer nights!

All PJ Pan nightwear is manufactured in the UK, and made with high-quality long staple combed cotton and shell buttons.  These pants are a tall girl's dream. There are options for Tall (34" inseam) and Extra Tall (36" inseam)! PJ Pan also offers a bespoke service for special size needs.

What's your favorite source for sleepwear?

xx,

Rachel

Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Budget

Wedding season is officially upon us, and it seems like most mailboxes are overflowing with invites. As a wedding guest, you want to your dress to be:
1. Appropriate for the event
2. Comfortable enough for all the dancing!
3. Future Facebook profile picture worthy

With so many weddings popping up every summer, you might be shopping within some financial limitations. Here are my picks for wedding guest dresses for any budget:

Steal

{H&M // $18}  {bebe // $98}  {Jessica Simpson // $98}

Save

{Anthropologie // $198}  {Maggy London // $148}  {Banana Republic // $150}

Splurge

 {Tory Burch // $395}  {Kate Spade // $598}  {BCBGMAXAZRIA // $298}

Are you attending weddings this spring/summer? Where is your favorite place to find a dress?

xx,

Rachel

Post-Grad Dating: Meet the Grown-Up Frat Guy

No matter the neighborhood, bar, or type of event, there are a few constant themes in the men you meet while dating as a post-grad. Walk into any locale filled with young professionals and adult beverages and you're sure to observe them:

•  The intense sports fan (often screaming at the TV/his phone and knocking over drinks). He was probably very athletic in high school and/or college and is having trouble acknowledging the glory days are over.
• The I-wear-a-suit-to-work guy. He quotes Barney Stinson a lot, and is usually found hitting on bandage-dresses-are-literally-everything girl.
• The tech start-up employee. Look for Warby Parker glasses and denim. Always, always wearing denim.
• And (my personal favorite) the perpetual frat guy.

Why is the perpetual frat guy my favorite, you might ask? Because like that killer pair of stilettos you bought on an impulse, fraternity men get softer and more lovable with age. The traits that you loved-to-hate in college actually translate well to the real world. At least most of the time. I'm not saying these men (boys?) are always the most dateable, but they are often the most fun.

In our post-grad lives, filled with rent and Obamacare and jobs where you actually have to work and not nap (I miss you, Anthropology 101), men that apply their collegiate lessons to the real world are a welcome reprieve. In my experience, the perpetual frat guy has a few consistent traits:

1. Overconfidence. The ridiculous arrogance that was often off-putting in college can give way to a more charmingly sanguine resilience. There's something commendable about surviving the perils of adulthood relatively unscathed. Boss chewed him out this morning and four girls just shot him down? No worries, it's all good.

2. Ambition. Fraternities love to win, and post-grad winning looks a lot like upward mobility at a big boy job. This is not the guy that will want to go Dutch on the first date, if only out of respect for traditional etiquette. They don't flash money (tacky), but people still always seem to be aware that he's comfortably employed.

3. He likes to party. Only now, instead of waking up smelling like stale Natty Light, the perpetual frat boy has graduated to an age-appropriate understanding the finer aspects of liquid courage. Bonus points if he knows his bourbon. You can often observe the grown-up fraternity man in his natural habitat (a bar, festival, sporting event, etc.) re-enacting many of his wild college antics, but with smarter decisions attached. He starts with a beer instead of going straight to Fireball shots, always takes cabs, and would never vomit on you. Let's take a moment to be thankful those days are (hopefully) over.

4. Charisma. This guy is a great plus-one for all those weddings you'll be attending this summer - also known as the twentysomething jackpot. Honed by semesters as the social chair or sorority delegate, he can enjoy an open bar without humiliating you, charm your weird aunt, and hit you with a devil-may-care smile at just the right times.

5. Male friendships. The high-fiving, shit-talking, drunken I-love-you-man qualities are still there, just perhaps hiding a bit deeper when he is in the presence of women. He has stopped providing sagacious commentary such as "Bros before hoes," but in general....yeah, puts his guy friends before girls that have yet to hold significance in his life. In the post-grad world, where everyone is either (A) desperate/engaged/married/procreating or (B) terrified of commitment, these male friendships are endearing. He has the ability to commit, if only to the same group of guys. Baby steps.

xx,

Rachel

Monday Meetup: Dana from Inspired

Need some outfit inspiration this Monday? Dana Dimitras from Inspired is a source of fresh, fun personal style. She has been blogging for nearly two years, and Inspired has no shortage of beautifully unique looks for you to browse. I was lucky enough to get to chat with this gorgeous (and super sweet!) lady and get her perspective on personal style:

Location: Italy

How would you describe your personal style?

I enjoy the colours and experimenting with new looks. I think my style has changed during the time and is continuing to evolve.

What is something on your bucket list?

Visit a city I have never been to before.

What inspired your love of fashion?

It was during the adolescence that I have noticed this attraction for fashion, it has been something natural. Since then I started to pay particular attention on what I was wearing.

Who influences or inspires your style?

Inspiration is everywhere, from fashion bloggers and street style to celebrities. However, when it comes to my outfits I tend to build them according to my personal taste and my mood, trying to be original as much as possible.

What are you most looking forward to wearing this season?

This season I would like to wear crop tops and culottes, likely in white.

Where is your favorite place to shop?

I do not have one favourite place to shop. I usually buy things online. I keep in mind what I am looking for then I surf different online shops until I find what I need.

What’s up next for Inspired?

I am expecting Inspired to grow in quality and continue to offer readers a pleasant space to find inspiration and creative content.

xx,

Rachel

(P.S. Let me know in the comments if there's a blogger that you want to see featured in the next Monday Meetup!)

Kate Moss for Topshop

Kate Moss's first collection for Topshop in four years launches today, and the fast fashion world is buzzing. This might be the only day I've longed to return to Oxford Circus (if you've visited London, you know what I'm talking about). The collection aims to recreate Kate's most iconic looks and capture her mellow-meets-glam party girl style.

While we'd all love to look as great as the fashion icon in these pieces, the collection is receiving mixed reviews. Alison says we've seen it all before (in the previous 14 collections Kate has done with Topshop) and describes the collection as dated and difficult to wear. While I agree with the critics of the collection on many points, I think the line has easy summertime glamour appeal. Here are the my picks:

Paisley print sundress, £65.00

Jewel bead overlay dress, £600.00

Scallop trim cami, £38.00

Not interested in shopping the collection? Check out these tips for achieving Kate's style without the fast fashion emulation.

What do you think of the collection? Will you be shopping?

xx,

Rachel

Sunday Steals: Seaside Edition

If there's any place that I constantly want to be, it's the beach. Spending time in coastal towns, and indulging in anything to do with the sea, make me the happiest girl in the world.  I found some shopping steals perfect your next getaway:

Michael Kors sunglasses $79.90 (originally $109)

Lilly Pulitzer bikinis $24.90 (originally $68)

Sperry sandals $39.90 (originally $78)

All are available at RueLaLa (here's your invitation). Hurry - they sell out quickly!


And to get you ready for the week ahead, check out this awesome TED Talk playlist about defining success. Have less than 10 minutes? This talk from Richard St. John on the 8 traits of successful people is just 7 minutes long:

xx,

Rachel

On People Changing

Regardless of the fact that we live in a fast paced and ultra-connected world, there seems to be one constant, unwavering aspect of humanity - other people with traits you don't like. I've heard it a hundred times: you can't change another person. Most often, this is said in reference to the opposite sex.

 Pinterest and Tumblr are overflowing with images proclaiming that you should accept people how they are or start living without them, approximately one million Marilyn Monroe quotes about handling someone at their worst, and general twenty-something angst about our inability to change less-than-desirable personality traits.

Perhaps it's true that you cannot force someone to change (and that would hardly be a healthy relationship). However, recent personality psychology research suggests that people can and do change significantly, and that key people in their life can be the catalyst.

Several research studies over the past few years have shown that your personality changes over the course of adulthood, specifically as a result of life events such as entering into a relationship or career advances. From age 20-65 an increase in positive traits (think emotional stability and responsibility) is reported, and titled the Maturity Principle by psychologists.

Well, duh. I think any girl who has dated both men her age and older men can vouch for the validity of these findings. Growing up comes with a lot of unfortunate consequences (hi there, taxes) but a lot of great ones too.

The part that stuck out to me is that happy people had a greater increase in the positive personality traits over the next four years compared to their unhappy peers. So on the rough days, remember that a positive outlook doesn't just help you today, but maybe for years to come. While you're at it, smile at as many people as possible - you never know what kind of change you could cause.

xx,

Rachel

The Liebster Award

I’m so excited to be nominated by Corinne from The Life Scout for the Liebster Award!  The Liebster Award is given to promote a newer blog they think is worth following, and to learn a little more about fellow bloggers.  If you haven't visited The Life Scout yet, I'd highly recommend it!  

(By the way, "liebster" is German for "dearest" or "darling" - warm fuzzy feelings all around)

Part of the Liebster award is that I have to answer some questions about myself and Suppose Anything Goes, then pass the award along to a new set of bloggers I enjoy following. This is a great way to discover some new blogs and to support the community!

What made you start blogging?

I was in a major period of transition in my life, and needed an outlet for some energy.  Suppose Anything Goes arose out of the fact that at that point in my life, "anything goes" was par for the course. Instead of fighting the flux (type A/borderline control freak problems), I decided to embrace it. 

I also really enjoy learning new skills, and all the little things that come with blogging appealed to me as a fun challenge.  

Who is your favorite blogger?

I am constantly inspired by Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere, and Jacey from Damsel in Dior. 

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

I asked my best friend to provide an answer for this one, and his response was "Impossibletodescribeinonlyoneword." Ha! I wouldn't have it any other way.  

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I'm absolutely a morning person, but preferably a caffeinated morning person. I think there's something so special about the earliest hours of the day - full of possibility!

What is on your bucket list?

I would love to travel to every continent. On a smaller scale, I keep a 101 Things in 1001 Days list, and love crossing things off! 

Are you a cat person or a dog person?

I love all animals (seriously - all living creatures), but I'm a dog person. I think it's because I understand their behavior way more than I understand cats. Plus, you can't beat the happy greeting they give you! 

What is the last film you saw?

The last movie I saw in theaters was American Hustle, which I enjoyed a lot. The most recent older film I watched was Amélie - if you haven't seen it, remedy that immediately! 

What is the farthest place you have ever traveled?

That would be Italy, as part of my two month long backpacking trip in Europe. Hopefully that is no longer true in the near future - I have a serious case of wanderlust. 

What's the best advice you have ever received?

My father is a pastor and quoted many Bible verses while I was growing up. One that  stuck with me is Philippians 2:14-15: "Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless."  I'm sure I take the verse out of  context, but whenever I'm at a loss for what I should do in a situation, I focus on the word "blameless." To me, that means making the choice that I proudly accept all possible consequences of, and that does no harm to others.  It's also a great reminder that complaining gets you nowhere! 

You can take three beauty products with you to a deserted island. What would you take?

Sunscreen, Smith's Rosebud Salve, and Chanel Inimitable mascara 

What is your dream job?

In some ways, I'm doing it! I love having a flexible schedule and being surrounded by things and people who inspire me. I'd love to work as a magazine editor or community manager, though.

Thanks again Corinne! Here are some blogs I would like to nominate:

Summer from La Petite Rousse

Rachel from Cupcakes & Mimosas

Cori from Furniture Steals

Karalina from Happy and Healthy

Ashley from History in High Heels

April Showers

Spring is definitely underway, complete with lots of rain. I don't mind rainy days. There's something impossibly cozy about spring thunderstorms. They do, however, require some special gear. I love my Hunter boots. I found one of their special edition pairs in the brightest pink. They always perk up my rainy walk, and they're boots of amazing quality.  I'm currently shopping for a new umbrella (thanks a lot, gale-force winds) and I love the classic style of trench coats.

Tory Burch // Target // Saks Fifth Avenue Collection

Burberry  // Henri Bendel //  Hunter

J. Crew // River Island // Burberry

What are your rainy day essentials?

xx,

Rachel

Splurge or Save: Spring Essentials

The arrival of spring definitely calls for a wardrobe refresh, but that doesn't have to mean emptying your bank account. I believe the criteria for an "investment piece" differ for everyone. Finding new pieces doesn't have to be expensive, especially if you know an item won't get lots of love in your wardrobe. Some things (for me, the Tory Burch dress below) are too beautiful to skimp on.

Whether you're looking to splurge or save on some new pieces, here are my spring wardrobe essentials:

 Flowy White Tank

Milly $215 // LuLu's $33

Color Blocked Sandal 

Chloe $695 // Splendid $68

Printed Day Dress

Tory Burch $325 // LuLu's $46

What are your essential pieces for spring?

xx,

Rachel

Monday Meetup: History in High Heels

What's better than a lovely blogger with style? A lovely, smart blogger with style. I've been reading History in High Heels since its very beginning, and Ashley couldn't be any sweeter. One thing that stands out about her blog is her Preppy Printshop. Ashley designs fun, colorful prints and provides a selection of free printables to her readers. She also has an Etsy shop for prints and pillows. 

Current location

Tampa, Florida

Occupation

 PhD History Student (during the academic year) and Associate Director for a Study Abroad Program (in the summer)

How would you describe your personal style, in both fashion and design?

I think my style is classic with a twist. I love classic shapes and clean lines, but in bright colors and bold patterns! I am also a sucker for cheeky themed items, á la kate spade.

 What is one item you’re saving up for?

Right now I am saving up for my summer travels. I promise myself I will visit one new European city each year! This year it’s going to be Berlin. There are also certain things I love to buy when I am in Italy - sandals in Capri and Ferragamo in Florence.

 What is something on your bucket list (or 101 in 1001 list!)?

Climbing the Great Wall of China!

Have you always been drawn to art?

Yes! I loved to draw as a child and was placed into advanced art classes fairly early in school. I almost went to art school, but I never really felt like I “fit in” with other art students. While I love art and being creative, I never wanted it to define me. Ultimately, I decided to attend a liberal arts college so I could pursue other interests (like history).

What is your design process like, from start to finish?

I look for inspiration everywhere and I am constantly taking pictures. I usually have bouts of creativity and once I start a design I have to finish it. I draw everything by hand in photoshop.

 What is your favorite print?

Right now my favorite print (and pillow) is my Kate Spade inspired “Ciao Bella.” But this changes all the time! I promised myself I would only create and sell things that I love, so this is a really tough question!

 What’s up next for History in High Heels and the Preppy Printshop?

Oh gosh who knows! I hope to keep pushing my creativity and coming up with new ideas. I would love to add mugs and stationary. As for the blog, I feel really lucky that people are reading it and enjoying it! Hopefully I can continue to provide entertaining, relatable, and meaningful content.

Here are some of my own favorite designs from History in High Heels:

 

 

1 // 2 // 3 

Thanks Ashley!

xx,

Rachel

(P.S. If you know a blogger that you'd like to see on Monday Meetup, leave your recommendation in the comments, or send me an email at rachel.e.medlock@gmail.com!)

Friday Five

1. The Many Shoes of Carrie Bradshaw from Pop Chart Lab
I got a surprise in the mail yesterday, in the form of this print! I am (shamelessly) still in love with Sex and the City. The print has 50 pairs of hand-illustrated shoes from all the iconic scenes. I'll be adding it to my gallery wall as a daily reminder that really great shoes can make life just a little more fun.

2. Lonely Lingerie
I stumbled across Lonely Lingerie and love their delicate designs, like this Sabel bra in cobalt.

3. Quote
It's no secret I'm addicted to quotes. This one popped up on Pinterest, and I thought it was a lovely sentiment.

4. Elizabeth Mayville print
Simple, pretty, and bright - this print (available from Design Darling) will be another great addition to my apartment.

5. Kenneth Jay Lane Weave Cuff
This cuff (on sale!) would be a fun addition to spring and summer looks. It strikes the perfect balance of intricacy and simplicity.

What's on your radar this week? Happy Friday!

xx,

Rachel

Three Ways to Wear Distressed Denim

I fell in love with a pair of distressed Joe's Jeans recently, and they've already been shown lots and lots of love in my wardrobe. Here are three ways I've been wearing distressed denim this spring.

1. Boho weekend

{Top: BCBGMAXAZRIA. Similar here}

{Bag: Local boutique find. Similar here and here}

{Wedges: unisa. Similar here and here}

Comfortable enough for errands, dressed up enough for coffee dates and brunch. 

2. Night out

{Jacket: collection. Similar here and here}

{Top: Pleione. Similar here}

{Shoes: BCBGeneration. Similar here} 

Even when the days are gorgeous, the nights get a little chilly. I've been adding a neutral jacket with a fun ruffle detail to stay warm.

3. Super casual

{Shirt: Cincinnati Reds MLB}

{Flats: Tory Burch}

Yesterday was Opening Day, which is basically a holiday in Cincinnati. I'm excited baseball season is back, and these jeans are laid back enough for the stadium. Comfortable flats make walking around the city a breeze! 

How do you style your distressed denim?

xx,

Rachel