1. Houzz

You know, I was never really a jewelry person. Yeah, I used to wear those flower statement necklaces that tarnish in two or three wears and if I remember to put them on, I'd throw on some simple cubic zirconia studs (fake stuff). However, considering on being associated in the jewelry field basically almost everyday, I love to accessorize- I do believe there's way more to amp up an outfit than just piling layers and different prints of articles of clothing. I'm even more cautious and picky on what goes in my jewelry collection now knowing the information and facts about jewelry itself and material of a product- and overall discovering such pretty pieces. I even know the difference between sterling silver and white gold... I didn't even know what "tarnish" meant!

I was going to write a post revolving all around Gorjana and featuring all the pieces I own to create a lookbook, but I can't help but talk about my top two absolute FAVORITE pieces that I honestly feel everyone should acknowledge- The Laguna Necklace and The Power Gemstone Beaded Bracelet. Gorjana has to be my favorite jewelry brand at the moment because of the versatility, the layering and the unique features. You can never go wrong with the metals either. I was always (still can be) skeptical about mixing metals but I've been loving the whole two-tone thing! Especially the whole theme of the brand, the combination of the gold and silver is super flattering so it's not limiting with other jewelry you wear as they all tend to coordinate.With work and hanging out with the boyfriend/friends/family or any outing, my Gorjana pieces are definitely my go-to's as I can totally get away with dressing these fun pieces up and down! This brand also offers a lifetime warranty which is awesome because knowing my clumsy self, if a chain breaks or wearing it daily that it fades in color, it can be re-plated and reattached, etc free of charge.. Need I say more?!


The Laguna Necklace-
My absolute favorite necklace ever. It has an adjustable feature (the bead that meets the two strands) that you can level up or down to create a higher/lower lariat AND you could even turn the whole necklace around- All the beads in the front while the two long strands hang in the back which a perfect subtle but sexy statement for a low back cut top/dress or piece when you have your hair up. These methods are perfect for layering with other long necklaces especially her short and dainty pendants (my fave dainty necklaces of hers has to be the Chloe mini disc choker paired with the Taner Bar necklace and of course layered with the Laguna!) The versatility sold me this necklace. I like my necklaces subtle but this necklaces still gives enough statement as each individual bead has a hammered texture and design to shine more in every movement which to me, is definitely enough to amp up my outfits! Don't like the large beads? It comes in a skinny beaded version which is for the peeps out there who rarely EVER wear jewelry (Skinny Laguna Adjustable Necklace). It's the perfect simple everyday, but statement-y lariat that should definitely be a new addition to your jewelry collection!

The Power Gemstone Beaded Bracelet-
I never really owned any bracelet- or durable bracelet, that is. That's right, this semi-precious beaded stone bracelet is my current obsession in Gorjana. They're perfect stacking bracelets or to simply wear individually. It has an adjustable bolo feature which I appreciate so much as it's difficult for me to find a bracelet that has a perfect fit on my wrist so it isn't too tight or too loose. Simply pull the two strings opposite direction of eachother to tighten- so easy to just throw on for the day! In between every stone, there's a 18k gold plated bead which is perfect to coordinate with the necklaces above and to pair with watches. I like to pair my Howlite/Gold Large Power Gemstone Beaded Bracelet (For 'calming') with my Lulu's Gold and Bronze Leather Watch. I normally wear it with my Pyrite Power Gemstone Beaded Bracelet (For 'Strength'). And guess what? this bracelet ALSO comes in a skinny version! I love a piece of jewelry that is more than it's style- they include meanings for each stone that encourages me to wear them on the daily and I find are perfect for gifting! All these pieces come in gold, silver & rose gold and they're all super cute to be worn with no matter which size and what color of stone and metal.

It has been much too long, guys. But, I am super excited to be able to say that I am finally making a real return to the blogging world... It's been a over a full year since my last post!

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A question that I get asked frequently by many people is, "So, what are your hobbies?" or "What do you like to do for fun?" and as sad as it sounds, I couldn't give them a definite answer. Now, before you think I'm a total introvert who isolates herself in her room and binge watches on TV shows (okay, thats me SOMETIMES)- there's many things I enjoy doing but it was difficult for me as I was trying to think what I was truly passionate about. What the hell am I even passionate about? 

I started blogging when I was sixteen. I was a total fashionista (still am) and was extremely inspired by many different Fashion & Lifestyle bloggers which I strived to be like. I sometimes look back at my old posts and cringe so hard that I want to delete them so bad, but, it's kinda nice to read what was going through my head and all the ideas I had because I know exactly how I felt the moment I started typing up a post. It was something I looked forward to everyday after school! Since I started blogging, you could say it's been my hobby. Was it something I had always taken my time off to do? No. For any bloggers out there, you know the struggle of inconsistency... life gets in the way and there was just so much to do and other things to prioritize at the time- especially being sixteen and in High School. Although I wasn't consistent, it's something that I had really taken interest in and started up a post whenever I had free time in an attempt to be better at maintaining my fashion blog. Being totally motivated to open up my creative mind by being inspired by the many Fashion & Lifestyle gurus, I was intrigued by many little aspects of blogging- organization, the many different formats/layouts, photo shoots & poses, and the overall success blogging has lead to people. If there’s anything I wish I could have kept in mind before having a huge absence is that everyone starts somewhere and I didn’t need some sort of fancy camera to be "successful" which explains a huge part of my absence in the first place, So TBH, I held back from blogging- although it would have been nice and helpful, and a super precise and formal formatted post- a main reason it’s nice to look back at what younger me posted. It was (still is) definitely a dream to make a living out of blogging, but as for now, the main thing I want is to share all my ideas focused on fashion and lifestyle :-)

Fast forward to the present

2017 was also one crazy ass year. I started a new job, relationships had started, relationships had ended, I became an Aunt and I even adopted two bunnies. I started working for Nordstrom and it has taken a good chunk of my time as it’s kept me productive and busy. Working there has taught me so much not only from selling, management and fashion tips but it's definitely boosted up my comfort zone to be more open-minded and confident in what I do and in myself, and because of that I feel more empowered and motivated which is actually a dramatic change and positive transition into the new year, ESPECIALLY the fashion portion. Now, like I said, I've always been a total fashionista but working in such a pretty classy, high-fashion environment, you definitely keep up with major trends, discover varieties of styles and eventually tend to dress in ways you at one point never thought you would (in the most positive way of course!) and it only makes sense to share my OOTD's and styling ideas on the blog. ;) I'm pretty sure anyone who works in the retail industry knows it is so dangerous and will take affect on your self-control... MY self-control, haha. All the pretty clothes, jewelry, accessories, etc! How can you resist?!

Despite the ups, downs and overall major changes in my life that occurred within the last year, I've always found myself wanting to get back to blogging. It's my own personal journal of radical discovery of myself. I can't wait to share with all of you my upcoming posts as I vow to myself and everyone else to stay consistent (she said for the millionth time but forreal though)! Oh, how I've missed sitting down and just typing away my ideas and thoughts.

Be sure to stay tunes for any upcoming posts coming very soon. Also, feel free to leave a suggestion in the comment box anything you'd like to see!)

xoxo,
Sarah

19. What everyone perceives as an "insignificant" age, or at least not as significant as being 16, 18 or 21. I feel like being 19 would be -or feel no different than being 18 (other than legal drinking in Canada). But despite how horrible I make 19 sound, and I know it wouldn't, I'm grateful to have had gone through another birthday and spend it with all my loved ones! No matter what age you are or become, family & friends are the most important things you could possibly have.

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Every year for my birthday, themes were always a must. When I turned 18, I had a Blanc party (all white attire). This year, I decided to have I bohemian themed! It was probably one of the best birthday parties I have ever had, in my opinion. In general, I love throwing on outfits that have a boho vibe to it. The flowers, the lace, the free spirited feel- I'm so here for it! It was also a really easy theme when it came to décor and attire. Although decorations weren't much of a time consumption for me considering I had just put up swirly stars on the ceiling, putting up flower wall stickers was already a great touch.

Not looking back is sometimes the best thing to do- or, always the best thing to do. Not because it already happened but because one: It's an opening to a new opportunity and two: a step towards a new beginning and moving on. I've always been one to be on the constant look out for potential toxic people to be prevented from coming in or near my life, but rarely does it ever occur to me that I've been having toxic friends in my life. There's a quote ascribed to Michael Bassey Johnson that I find interesting: “Always remember that you were once alone, and the crowd you see in your life today are just as unnecessary as when you were alone.” It took me a while to figure out that if my friends aren't giving me a warm and happy feeling, I'm so not surrounding myself around the right people.

Growing With Different Mindsets
I have had plenty of friends in the past who I have grown to instantly click and become compatible with- at least I thought I did. It's understandable as people grow, their mentality is clearly more broad and obviously, open to newer things. That right there, is just life. Think of your own self-development and don't disregard your gut feeling.

Lying To Yourself That They're Your Friend(s)
They can't keep secrets. Because I just love it when my secrets are being divulged! [sarcasm]. It has happened to me not only once that I have had my secrets revealed by a so-called friend of mine to the public and other people I intend to keep prohibited out of my life. There's a line of knowing where to beyond any doubt dump them once that line is reached, and this is it. Don't be fooled and convinced by that one time they were your shoulder to cry on.

Hi, friends! I finally took the time to get some shots done with an actual high quality camera! Although they were intended to be my senior photos, there's no reason I shouldn't share them with you on the blog. I had a blast shooting these photos!

I took a walk in the park with my good friend and thought it was the perfect place for a fall-themed shoot. Especially with my outfit, it was the perfect setting! I wore my floral cut-out swing dress with my rust-orange jacket all from Forever 21 and paired it with my over-the-knee socks from Urban Outfitters and boots from Steve Madden.