Fit for Style

A while back I tweeted asking if anyone was at all interested in what I wore to workout and such. I actually got some pretty good feedback (what?! shocking, I know) and so here I am to present you with my little opinion about fitness clothes and all that fun stuff.

Tank- Nike

Leggings- Old Navy

Sweater- Thrifted

Shoes- Nike Pegasus30+

The hardest part about working out is definitely finding the time. One of the easiest ways that I've found is to just dress for the day and that way when people wonder why you're not dressed normally, you can just say "oh I'm going to work out later". Then you HAVE to do it. 

When I opt for this method of self-trickery, the easiest thing to do is start with leggings. Usually I would prefer the cropped length, but it's too darn cold to be pulling stunts like that. Next, a tank top. I'm slightly odd in that I HATE short sleeved workout shirts. I'm not sure what it is, but I'll wear a tank top or long sleeved shirt every day of the week before I go for short sleeves for working out. After that, A loose-knit long line sweater to keep everything casually covered, and you're good to go! Lace up those sneakers and the excuses are no more.

I am a firm believer that if you feel good, you'll look good. Fitness clothes are no exception. No one wants to sweat it out in a dingy old t-shirt from high school and some cotton leggings! Not only is it going to inhibit your ability to work harder (at least thats what I tell myself when I buy new workout gear) but it doesn't motivate you! Below are some of the items on my wish list. 

Adidas Cropped Leggings Nike Sweatpants Nike Long Sleeve FILA Shorts Patagonia Tank Adidas Bra Nike Bra

(All of these are higher end items, but if you're going to splurge on just a couple items, I would definitely say to splurge on the sports bras. Nothing kills a good workout more than feeling uncomfortable in a bra, and decent quality affordable tops and bottoms are way easier to find.)

I'd like to wrap all of this up by saying that I know I'm not in the best shape, and obviously I have some work to do. But regardless of if you're a regular marathon runner or just started walking around the track- GOOD. FOR. YOU. You're a healthier person no matter what you're doing, and it's absolutely worth it in the long run. Plus, it's an excuse to buy a whole new genre of clothes ;)

BEAUTY REVIEW: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

Oh hey, beauty reviews. Long time, no see, eh? I looked into it and it's actually been since SEPTEMBER that I reviewed anything beauty related and since JULY that I've talked about makeup. Whaaat?! Insanity, I tell you. I'm not here to deliver a full on 5 page review of 20 different products, but I do have a little tiny lifesaver that's been making a regular appearance in my routine.

This college life is taking it's toll on me. Not only am I slacking on the makeup reviews, but I've been slacking on taking care of my skin as well. It's hard to remember 17 different steps when you've been up until 3 am writing (or partying...) and the bed just looks so inviting. The winter wind and air aren't exactly helping things either. So that's where this bad boy comes in.

A few months ago my mom dumped these Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion sample bottles on me since she wasn't going to use them, and I'm not about to tell her that she's giving away one of the best products. This lotion creates the smoothest canvas for makeup application, and absorbs in no time. It's also not greasy, although there may or may not be a slight sheen to it- I can't quite tell but I guess that means that any sheen is pretty insignificant anyway. 

The best thing about this lotion is the velvety texture I've noticed my skin having after just a day or two. I'll go in and out of using it just for the sake of trying other products, and every time I come back to it I notice a difference in how my skin feels. I can't say that there is any change in the appearance of my skin, because this doesn't have any skin tone evening properties. It really is just a lotion, but there's no need for added bells and whistles when a classic product does exactly what it says it will.

The only downside is that I can't tell if it is making me break out or not. My skin goes in and out of being annoying spotty, and there don't seem to be any ingredients that might trigger a reactions, so I'm going to blame it on hormones for now. Don't let that stop you from trying this, because if you have the chance, it's definitely worth it.

Clinique is available at makeup counters in the US in Macy's, Dillards, and Ulta. I'm not sure about international availability, but I'm getting the feeling that I've seen UK bloggers review products before. Check their website for locations.

Pinafore Plaid

Top- Express

Pinafore- H&M

Plaid Button Up- LA Men

Scarf- H&M

Boots- DSW

Lipstick- MAC Ruby Woo

There are a couple of things that I feel need to be said about this outfit.

1. It is -10 with the windchill during these pictures. I am a moron.

2. This skirt is entirely too short for me and I have no business wearing it. I am a moron x2.

These pictures just don't make any sense. I really do like this outfit, but I'm just too tall to wear it. Also, at 21, I'm not sure I can really pull off the pinafore skirt quite right. Some people that are older than me somehow manage to do it, but I feel as if I just can't do the whole adult-child thing. Maybe if I was about 6" shorter it would work out. The world may never know.

So on that note, I'm going to be putting this dress into my shop. I literally popped the tags off for these pictures, so it's brand new. Also, I'm selling my creepers, some wedge sneakers (yeah...), and a bunch of other stuff that will be going up in a day or two (I'll tell you why in my next post...it's super exciting!). If you're interested, there's a link in my fancy new header, and I'll make another announcement about it on Twitter when everything is officially posted. Happy shopping!

Giveaway

New Blog Design!! (And how you can get one too)

While I know I'm at risk of stating the obvious, I just can't help saying it...I GOT A NEW BLOG DESIGN! I am absolutely in love with it. Everything about this now feels so professional and put together, and I definitely think that it is going to help me to brand myself better. It even inspired me to take another look at my Youtube, and I may or may not be filming an update on my life video this week (considering I haven't made a video in 6 months, haha)

This blog design was really only possible through Joyce of Joyful Outfits, however. Elana is the one who clued me in on her genius-ness one day, and suggested a shoot her a quick email to let he know I was interested. Within 48 hours I had a reply back and it's been the best experience. She's accommodating, easy to work with, creative, open to ideas, and oh yeah, did I forget to mention that she's only 17?! The jealous sets in....

So, I decided to do a quick interview with her after she finished installing my layout (oh yeah, it was completely no hassle on my part. I didn't even have to mess around with setting it up).

Q: Which came first- the blogger or designer?

A: The blogger! When I just started out in 2011, I didn’t know anything about HTML or CSS but I slowly learned a bit every year while trying to tweak my own blog. I think a huge reason I started blog designing was so I wouldn’t keep changing my own. Otherwise, I would probably be changing my blog design every month, haha.  I’m also taking an Adobe Illustrator class soon so everything is still definitely a learning process.

Q: Is it difficult juggling being a senior in high school with a blog and personal business? Do you have other extra curriculars?

A: At first it was a little bit difficult because I didn’t realize that blog designing would take up a lot of time, but I really love doing it so I learned to prioritize my time better so I can keep designing. Other than blogging, I also play the harp and volunteer at the local zoo!

Q: The dreaded high school senior question…where are you going to school? What will you be studying? (It’s ok if you don’t know!)

A: Hopefully somewhere on the east coast! But since I’ve never lived anywhere but California, I’d really love to go to an out-of-state school. I’ve heard back from two schools so far (Northeastern University and University of Virginia) so now I’m just waiting for the rest of the decisions to come out. I’m thinking about studying business management with a concentration in entrepreneurship and a possible minor in computer science. But I might also want a minor in music or a minor in communications. I’m very excited about exploring more of what I like in college!

Q: You seem to have a real grip on everything, and you’re only 17! Is there a secret? Us 21-year-olds without a clue need to know.

A: Hmmm I’m not sure! I think for me, it’s learning what I truly enjoy doing and focusing on those things instead of trying to spread myself too thin.

Q: Anything else you’d like to throw at us? What’s your least favorite food and what did you do this last weekend?

A: My least favorite food would probably have to be fish eyes. I’m usually pretty open to trying new food but fish eyes just really scare me, hahah. My cousins love eating them though! For the three day weekend, I went to watch Frozen with my friends and went to a grilled cheese sandwich place for lunch. I also started making a bucket list with my friends for the last semester of high school! So far I have: learn how to surf, go to an Ellie Goulding concert, and get my driver’s license.

Q: Now the basics- if a reader wanted to get a fancy-schmancy blog design such as this, how would they go about doing that?

A: I have a blog design site Alcyonen (here) where you can purchase a template or a custom blog design :)

And I'll leave it at that! Her designs are spectacular, and very reasonably priced, I feel. I can't wait to see what the rest of 2014 has in store for The Style Duckling since already there has been quite a bit on commotion. Speaking of which, don't forget that the giveaway ends in 10 days! It's super easy to enter if you haven't already and you've got a whole site to chose from. Here's the link to the blog post. Adios!

Life Update: COLLEGEFASHIONISTA

The title of my last post "The Calm Before the Storm" could not have been more accurate. To say that this was a hectic week would be an understatement. The start of classes, book ordering, people meeting, not to mention the most exciting thing- my Style Guru Bio at CollegeFashionista went live!

I've been putting off telling you guys until I could have something tangible to show you, and that day is finally here! This semester I'll be writing weekly reports (they will always come out on Fridays) for CollegeFashionista by finding people around campus that exhibit "exceptional" style. As well all know, the Midwest isn't exactly known for being fashion-forward, and Western Illinois is no exception. I think it's going to be rather challenging, honestly, to find people that won't get me yelled at by the editors, but it's going to be a great experience. I'm hoping that it might be able to create a bridge of relationships for the future..or at least get me a tougher skin for criticism haha

So here it is, folks! If you feel so inclined to share this, I'm sure I'd get some brownie points with the Editors, but I'll make sure to keep a link in the sidebar so you can easily hop on over to my articles each week. My first "official" Accessories Report goes live on Friday, January 24th. Keep you eyes open for it!

PS- That giveaway is still live for just about another week and a half! Don't forget to enter if you haven't already, because I'm totally jealous if someone wins that cheetah cardigan!

The Calm Before the Storm

Shirt- Forever21

Cardigan- H&M

Jeans- American Eagle

Shoes- Thrifted

Bracelet- Etsy

These last few days before leaving for school have been an absolute whirlwind, but it's nothing compared to what it will be going back to school. Seth has been visiting me here at home, we've been going to restaurants, bars, malls, Skyzone (basically an entire warehouse lined with trampolines- it's just as awesome as it sounds), and generally having a fantastic time after spending Winter Break away from each other. Today, though, it is time to head on back to the good ol' middle of no-where for a new semester. There's quite a few things going on that I'm going to have to make sure to stay organized because in addition to 17 credit hours, I'm going to need to juggle writing newspaper articles, writing articles for an exciting project that I will announce later on, AND keeping this blog updated. Can you say "exhausting"?

I have a feeling this new cardigan that I picked up with a gift card is going to come in handy because it's lightweight and baggy enough to be the perfect throw on for late nights that require a little more coziness than the dorms offer. Plus, Elana is through the roof that I've finally joined her cardigan cult. These jeans are also new (and yes, purchased with a Christmas gift card), and I couldn't be more excited for them. For so long I've stared at my closet thinking "this would go great with a dark pair of skinny jeans". Finally the day has arrived.

2014 already has quite a bit in store for me, so here's to hoping I can handle it. This is what your 20s are all about, right?

Don't forget about the giveaway running right now! It's almost half-way over so don't miss out with 10+ entries possible. 

Instagram Haul- Part 4!

While I am a busy busy bee trying to put together a blog sale to generate some money for an exciting little surprise *cough -new blog design- cough*, I thought it was time for an instagram update. Of course if you follow me, you might have seen these already, but for the readers who do not have an instagram or who just dont follow me (shame on you), these are a snippet into my life you otherwise don't see! Enjoy!

PS- Have you seen my giveaway? You can pick from a whole website full of items. Don't forget to take a look here!

Latest Obsession- cheetah

If you follow me on my Instagram, you would know that for Christmas I received a Betsey Johnson cheetah print infinity scarf and could not be more in love. Is there any print you CAN'T mix cheetah with? Stripes- yes. Plaid- yes. Floral- yes. Not to mention it looks fabulous with an all denim ensemble. Therefor, I would like to present everyone with my favorite cheetah print items that I've been lusting over!

Heels - Coat - Cardigan - Bag - Scarf

Cheetah can be difficult to work with. If you're not careful with it, it can come off as cheap and slightly...hussy. This can serve as an easy guide to keep those nasty opinions as bay.

Also, I'm running a giveaway for the month of January in case you didn't see it in my last post! I'd also like to mention that the rules have been slightly amended if you DID happen to read it before, so double check those because now you can pick from more than just the items I chose!

Find it here!

Preppy Plaid + Giveaway

Plaid shirt- American Eagle

Sweater- Thrifted

Jeans- eBay

Shoes- Won in Giveaway

Bracelet- Tiffany's

Necklace- Thrifted

The first thing my mom said to me when I saw her yesterday was "Katie, you're so 80's!". Apparently this was the big thing back then, collars and sweaters, although I was completely unaware. The scary thing is that I almost popped my collar to show off a different statement necklace...

Regardless of whether or not I'm going to look like an 80s douchebag, I'm absolutely addicted to this look. The printed shirt under a solid sweater is a subtle way to add more pattern and texture into your wardrobe and could be made appropriate for all kinds of events. Plus, anything that goes with a statement necklace is a win for me.

Soooo, in yesterday's post I promised you all some exciting news and here it is- a giveaway! DressLily.com approached me a couple weeks ago asking if I would like to host a giveaway for my readers and I couldn't very well say no! This blog is all about looking fashionable and high end on a college student's budget. DressLily makes that possible.

So I've chosen 6 items from their website (the links can all be found under the collage), and 1 (one) winner will be randomly chosen at the end of the giveaway to have their pick of the items! All that's required of you is listed below (and doing all the required items unlocks even more chances to win!). Good luck everyone!

Top Right Necklace - Top Middle Cardigan - Top Left Necklace

Bottom Right Earrings - Bottom Left Scarf - Bottom Middle Necklace

We all know I have a love for statement necklaces, so three of the six items were a no brainer. I'm seriously considering buying that seashell necklace. How cute would that be in the summer?! The bottom one is great for winter jewel tones, and the other to right is a perfect spring color necklace. The leopard chiffon cardigan is so easy to throw on, and my we're not even going to get into my obsession with leopard/cheetah print at the moment. That's a post for a different time, haha.

EDIT: You may now choose from ANY of the items on the website ($10 or less), not just the items I picked. These happen to be some of my favorites, so I would be flattered if you did indeed choose one of these ;) Also, there was something of a misunderstanding because you must do all of the first three items on the Rafflecoptor list to be eligible. You also must be follow The Style Duckling on Bloglovin' or GFC. Any further compliances will just earn you more chances to win!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

It's a Wrap: 2013 Review and 2014 Wishes

I had no idea what kind of year 2013 would bring when I wrote my very first post of the year last year (here's a picture from that post and a link here in case you'd forgotten).

On a larger scale, 2013 saw me transfer schools and finally get my toe in on a major I truly love. It held the end of one poor relationship and the beginning of one very lovely one. I met people I never could have imagined, made connections I'll hopefully never lose, and . On a light note, my hair grew (although it may be hard to tell), I furthered my nail polish collection, and acquired a serious love for lipstick.

Here was the last picture from 2013, and the first picture of 2014 is still yet to be determined. Maybe there will be another post later today? I'm not entirely sure yet, but I do know that I have a few simple resolutions for the new year. Who knows how well I'll stick to them, but it doesn't hurt to outline them, right?

In 2014 I want to...

Eat well, exercise regularly- Cliche, yes, but there is literally nothing negative from this one. Our bodies don't need the processed, fatty, sugary, starchy foods that saturate our society (especially as Americans) and I can only benefit from striving to eat more REAL food. As for exercise, I've gotten quite a bit better at this in the last few months of 2013 so hopefully I can only move up from here! And having a trainer that is invested in me doesn't hurt ;)

Travel More- That's what your 20s are all about right?! At least that's what I keep reading everywhere.

Worry Less (especially about money) - I am a constant worrier, especially about money. I'd like to just relax and let this be as they are. Worrying won't change the situation- actions will.

Not Gain Weight- I don't want to say "lose weight" because not only does that not really do much, but it doesn't mean much at this point. I just want to see my 22nd birthday at the same weight or smaller than I was at my 21st

ps- Keep your eyes peeled for a VERY exciting post tomorrow. 2014 is looking to be a pretty good year for the blog already :)