Sewing...

Most of the skirts that I have were a size or two bigger for me (after I lost oodles of weight). I sewed them from one side, I don’t think anyone can tell by looking at any of them that they are adjusted. Basic sewing skills and a sewing machine definitely comes in handy.

This is the machine that I have - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JQM1DE/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

‘Quality sewing and vacuum’ store provides free classes to teach machine set up which was helpful for me as the new computerized machines are a lot different than the manual sewing machine that I was used to.

Anyway, the point is if something isn't broken or can be fixed, then there is no reason to look for a replacement.

Random inputs yet again

• Never take kindness for granted


• Never measure your achievement or goals against someone else's


• Treat others the way you wish to be treated but also - treat others the way they treat you! Ha! That means if someone is disrespectful/hurtful with you then no need to shower them with love and care... move on.


• and when nothing goes your way, there is always an option of changing your path.

Dress: J crew, Sweater: Modcloth, Tights: Target, Shoes: Vaneli

Ecosystem

Our ecosystem relies on a self-regulating balance of predators and prey. This system worked well with humans and their prey until we began inhumane farming practices that compromise the well-being of animals, the health of humans and the health of our planet. If you eat nonveg then opt for organic meat - the key requirements of organic meat are -

• Animals should be raised organically on certified organic land


• they must be fed certified organic feed


• No antibiotics or added growth hormones are allowed and


• All animals have outdoor access

Jeans: Abercrombie and Fitch, Shoes: Vaneli, Top: Ann Taylor, Sweater: Nordstrom Rack

When you go shopping -

• Quality. Look for the quality of the fabrics, good fabrics feel good on the skin and also last a long time.


• Fitting. Nothing looks good if it does not fit your body. We try to fit into clothes from decades back and then get frustrated about our closets and bodies and then completely give up on our style. Accept your body and dress accordingly. This simple change in mindset will make you realize that a little fluctuation in your body weight has absolutely nothing to do with your style and looking good. (I would recommend to not give up efforts to lose weight or stay in shape).


• Color. When it comes to color I have unintentionally made the same mistake over and over again - I have 4 black tops (with varying sleeve lengths), 3 black skirts and such repetitive colors. I wish instead  I had bought tops in all colors - red, pink, brown, yellow, green and whatnot. When you go shopping decide on the colors that you want to buy, something that will go with at least a few items in your closet and avoid colors that you already have.


• Design. There are too many complicated designs out there lately, like frills, belts that you need to tie and stuff, there are other styles like off-shoulder, spaghetti tops, low necklines, no doubt that they make a statement but that is not my style, it doesn’t make me feel comfortable. So yes I do look for a match for the design too. Then the last thing I make sure is it is easy on and off, i.e. doesn't involve wrapping, multiple buttons and complicated stitching/folds, belts. Keep it simple is my style mantra.


• Trends. Be careful on the path of following trends or someone else’s style which you can not relate to. Not all trends/styles are for all body types, and some of them are not even worth trying. Some styles look great only in pictures but in reality, they are the most uncomfortable things.


• Footwear. Never purchase a shoe without trying. If you buy them online make sure that return shipping is offered and is free. Walk around in the pair for at least two minutes and if they are not comfortable then that means they are not about to get comfortable later. I don't buy high heels anymore, I do not feel comfortable in them - does not matter even if the rest of the world is using ladders to walk I am going to buy just flats henceforth. You will always find exciting options within your comfort zone.

I hope you find these tips helpful.

2 combos:

Vegan leather jacket: Blank NYC, Stripes Tee: J crew factory, Jegging: American Eagle, Shoes: Vaneli

13 reasons why

Dress (used as a tunic top) - banana republic - Also worn HERE

jacket - j crew

shoes - vaneli

jeans - abercrombie and fitch

My new post '13 reasons why' is available here.

Back!

Back to blogging after almost 10 months of a break! I have started a new Pinterest board for this personal style blog, you can visit it here

Skirt  - Modcloth

Top - white house black market

sweater - Nordstrom rack

Shoes - Circa Joan and David

More ways I wore the stripes skirt:

Reduce, Recycle and Reuse

A materialist concentrates on accumulating things and a minimalist thinks of how to get rid of things, ultimately both are focusing thoughts on stuff. We accumulate stuff and then think of ways to purge it out of life (this is the First World Phenomena).

Owning more than what we need is consumerism, I think we all are consumerists in that sense. All I can say is don’t have a lifestyle of mindless consumerism, don’t be an impulsive consumer be a mindful one. The more realistic thing to do is donate things that you don’t use than giving away things in the name of minimalism. Know what is in your drawers, cupboards, fridge, and corners. Donate anything that is not used for a few years. Ultimately have things that you utilize and utilize what you already have!

Denim Skirt: Banana Republic

Shirt: J crew

Sweater: Tjmaxx

Tights: Hue

Shoes: Vaneli 

Things

The best things in life are not things at all.

Skirt: Modcloth

Top: Tjmaxx

Scarf: Target

Tights: Target

Shoes: Circa Joan and David

Natural unfolding

When we force or rush any decision be it career, romance or writing a story, just by needing to know an outcome right away do we miss the natural unfolding that is going to happen? It will be so nice if we let whatever is being born, be born. 

What if we let go of the control and fly with the wind like a feather which is as light as air and land where life best expresses us? I wish the future generations make peace with uncertainty and have some patience to see the beauty in life’s unfold.

Turtleneck: Banana Republic

Skirt: Banana Republic

Tights: Hue

Shoes: Joan and David

Girl on the train

'Girl on the train' has a very gripping story. I just couldn't keep the book down and finished it over the long weekend, no wonder it is New York bestseller since last two and a half years. If you like murder mysteries then I would definitely recommend it.

Turtleneck: Banana Republic

Skirt: Ann Taylor Factory

Tights: Target

Boots: Circa Joan and David