This holiday season has gotten off to a rocky start, as my best friend’s father passed away last week and it hasn’t really felt like a celebratory time. I took some time away from social media and blogging while we spent our last days with him, and following his passing I spent time with our friends and family in Georgia. When Hal was in the hospital battling a quick, horrible cancer, I got to spend time with him during which, as always, he bestowed his precious wisdom. He reminded Anna and I that our clothing and “things” are simply entertainment. We should not put so much focus on these but rather our relationships, with each other, friends, family, and God. We should be focused year round on giving (and not buying things for ourselves) because we are fortunate to have enough to be able to give. Our entertainment should take a back seat.
While I took these words to heart and will remember them always, I also know that Hal would not want me to give up on my passion and my dreams, which happen to be focused on fashion and styling. There has got to be a balance here somewhere and I intend on finding it. I’d like to think that because I work hard and genuinely care about all of the work that I do (fashion related, and not) that I can treat myself to the finer things in life on occasion. After all, no matter how cliche or materialistic it sounds, when we look good, we feel good. And I know that Hal always wanted us to feel good in our skin. Going forward, I am going to do my best to remind myself of this balance. When I feel like buying something new for myself, first think of something I can first do for someone else. Then, if I still want to buy the shoes, buy the shoes.
Anna and I laughed at him basically calling us materialistic, but at the end of the day, he made a great point. I cannot claim that I will get rid of all of my possessions, but I can aim to always remember that I am lucky and fortunate to be able to support my style habits and can afford to give a little more to those in need.
So on that note, in the spirit of treating ourselves to something nice every once and a while, I’ve rounded up 16 pieces that might be worth investing in this holiday season to make you feel your best. For your holiday parties, or simply because you want to dress up and feel good, I’ve picked items that aren’t going to break the bank in the process!
aaaaand, every girl needs at least one faux fur coat in her winter closet. Here are some of my favorites right now. I can foresee this camo teddy coat in my near future 🙂
Love your dress and fun jacket! This is such a cute look!XOXOCathy
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. It sounds like he was a very wise man – thank you for sharing his wisdom!xx Mollie
Thank you so much, Mollie <3
I am so sorry to hear about your friend's father. It's so wonderful to be so close to your friend's loved ones, but when there's a loss like this it's really hard to adjust to. I'm keeping both of you in my thoughts. Ps. I absolutely love your photography style, the colors are so gorgeous and mysterious!
Thank you so much for your sweet words, Annie!!!! xx
I’m sorry for your loss, it sounds like you were quite close. Your best friend is lucky to have you by her side as you guys go through this.
Im so sorry to read about your loss. Thank you so much for sharing this look!!!xoxo Sarah
Deaths are so so tough and really can put things into perspective. So sorry about your loss.
Gosh, I am so sorry for your loss. Sending my love.
I'm so sorry to hear about your best friend's dad. Sometimes (unfortunately so) it takes something really hard-hitting to put things into perspective. Sounds like this outlook will do you good, girlfriend! xoxx, Danielle | Pineapple & Prosecco
It's so hard to go through these seasons – especially when it's supposed to be a happy time of year. I'm sorry to hear of his passing. I'm glad you took his words to heart and are making those life changes that will be for the better in the long run. And thanks for reminding us as well!
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. It's always so hard to get back into the swing of things or even feeling normal, especially around the holidays. I'm glad you are making this a positive, life changing experience though!