As I sit down to write this, we are officially coming down from a four-wedding circuit this year — a new record. Between planning my own wedding and navigating everyone else's, I realize an unholy amount of my bandwidth this year has been consumed by travel, logistics, and, in true SK fashion, obsessing over what to wear. Putting it all down on the blog feels long overdue.
Looking back at my approach, I’ve realized I don't actually have a plan of attack for wedding wear (shocking, I know). Usually, I’m just constantly hunting for pieces that can work across a plethora of events, but sometimes I like to rent something new or invest in a piece I know I am going to rewear.
Wedding dress codes usually give me some kind of anxiety, especially as someone who is a bold and creative dresser. But this year we went to lots of weddings for people that I knew well and who I knew loved fashion, and let me embrace that, which was a gift.
Cocktail
Spring/Summer
I actually found this dress last November while rewatching Confessions of a Shopaholic. What started as an impulse buy turned into a fun choice for occasion wear. This dress is made from three oversized silk scarves sewn together, and the colors are so fun, vibrant, and completely speak for themselves. I paired the dress with a fresh haircut and dye, an orange manicure in OPI's Summer Lovin' Had Me a Blast!, Bottega Veneta drop earrings, a vintage Gucci watch, and my trusty Gucci Super Mini Marmont bag that has quite literally seen and done it all. For shoes, I wore Harajuku Lovers wedges that I've held onto since the tenth grade!
Indian casual
End of summer
My cousin Kristi’s wedding was a big, beautiful weekend with three distinct days of dress codes. For the Maticoor which was held outdoors, synthetic fabrics were a hard no. I turned to Farm Rio, which is always my go-to for rentals because their pieces are colorful, comfortable, and fun. This dress had a subtle Indian-inspired vibe that felt perfect for the setting. With it, I wore my same Gucci bag, a pair of Burberry espadrilles I've owned forever that turned out to be the ideal shoe for the occasion, a pair of Versace earrings that I thought I needed, and a tikka from my cousin Yash.
Indian or formal wear
Traditional Indian clothes and I have had a complicated relationship. Growing up, I rarely wore them, so whenever I put them on, I’d look in the mirror and think, Who is she? It just never felt like me, and as a kid I was unable to explore what 'me' even looked like in them. Today, the landscape is much different with modern designers, but that doesn't mean logistics can't break your heart. I’d be lying if I said I didn't lose sleep over the wedding look! Because buying traditional Indian outfits can cost the price of a beater Honda, I had rented a gorgeous corset and draped skirt set from Masaba months in advance — only for it to not arrive on time, throwing me into an absolute mentyb.
Left scrambling, I had to pivot to a traditional sari, which wasn't my plan, came severely wrinkled, and required help from my fiancé (several rounds of ironing) and my cousin Yash (wrapping and pinning). The last-minute accessory scramble was a mix of Deepa Gurnani Suvani earrings (similar), bangles from an Indian store near me, a borrowed necklace from Yash (Thank you Yashi), and a bigger black Gucci Marmont bag. While I didn't feel completely in my comfort zone, it ended up working out and people gave me lots of compliments!
Black Tie
For the reception, I wore a dress I bought last fall with the idea of wearing it to a few weddings, which now I realize was kinda crazy. It's by the designer ASHISH, whose work I have always loved, and it's so bright and sequined. Sequins mean it is loud — not ideal for jumping to the Killers or Good Charlotte or if you're coming in late and trying to be quiet, but you live and you learn. I wore this dress (similar) with Gucci heels I got for a steal on ThredUp, Bottega Veneta drop earrings, and a Vivienne Westwood bee necklace I bought while we were in NY. I felt most like me this evening, which is hard to explain but such a wonderful feeling.
Semi-formal
Fall
There were lots of things I could've worn from my closet for my friend Marylou's wedding, but I didn't feel inspired particularly by any of them. Plus it has been such a hot, October! Initially I wanted to rent an Aje raffia dress or a Helsa stretch cotton midi dress, but dollars for these weddings were limited, so I rented a Marchesa dress off Pickle for this wedding and another in October. I think what I love about renting clothes is that it is a fun, more sustainable way for me to try new brands and clothes, so it is really a treat to rent a dress, though it can become a pain quickly. Initially I didn't love having to wear it for two occasions and didn't want to be an outfit repeater, but reflecting back, I'd say it was the right choice not only because it was cost-effective, and the person who lent me the dress was great. Sometimes renting an outfit comes down to whether they will fulfill your order, ship it in time, or double book you, but this time it was stress-free and arrived early, giving me time to see how it paired with my closet.
I was dubious about this dress but came around, and what is always the best outcome is that I felt good and like I had dressed appropriately. I wore one of my most comfy pairs of Erdem x H&M heels, trusty bee necklace from Vivienne Westwood, a Louis Vuitton bag, a vintage watch, and I finally got my hair cut and redyed after five months.
No dress code
Fall outdoor/indoor
While I had originally planned to wear my ASHISH dress again, you know, really get that cost-per-wear down lol, I came to my senses and realized that was an absolute no for this wedding. So instead, I re-wore my rented Marchesa dress for our final wedding of the season in Abilene, Kansas. My fiancé was in the wedding party wearing a khaki suit with a burnt orange tie, so part of my strategy with choosing this dress was coordinating with him.
I knew this wedding would have the wildest mix of guest attire. We’re talking everything from shorts, hats and jeans to beautiful sequined and velvet dresses, so I consciously tried to reel myself in a bit. I styled the dress with a pair of earrings my Aunt Indira gave me (similar), my python Gucci Mini Marmont bag, Erdem x H&M kitten heels, and switched up my makeup a little from the previous wedding. I was more on the formal side but still felt great!
Overall, I have come to find through this year of wedding guest shopping, is that it is difficult! It's hard to interpret dress codes, find the right thing — that expresses your personal style with the right materials and for the right price. So here are some of my takeaways:
- Plan ahead & explore resale. Try to think about what you want to wear and how you want to feel early on. If you see a dress or outfit that speaks to you, works for a special occasion, and is something you could see yourself wearing more than once, save it! Even better, start hunting for it on resale sites like eBay, Poshmark, Depop, Vinted, Vestiaire Collective, The RealReal, and ThredUp.
- It's okay to be an outfit repeater. With four different weddings on my calendar this year, I’ll admit I fell prey to wanting something new and unique for every event. But honestly, it’s completely fine to wear a piece, be photographed in it, and repeat it. A look can drastically change with different hair and makeup, shoe choices, or playing with jewelry versus keeping it bare. Wearing what you love, posting it, and wearing it again is conscious fashion.
- Invest where it counts (and rent the rest). Put your money into pieces you know you'll re-wear; shoes and bags are particularly worthwhile investments for me. On the other hand, renting dopamine inducing dresses from time to time makes so much more sense than buying something I won't ever wear again.
- Treat yoself. Invest in beauty and wellness services if it’s feasible for you. While I don't always get my hair done (unless a wedding is local), what I really love is booking a massage or a dermaplaning facial beforehand. Between travel logistics and everyday life, I'm often carrying a little stress, so these services go a long way.
- Try things on. It’s hard to know how an outfit truly fits or works together until you physically see it. We often host fashion shows at home to test out full looks, or I’ll send a video to some friends to get feedback across a broader mix of style perspectives.
- Reflect on your shopping habits. Looking back on this year, I bought a lot, sold a ton and rented some. While I was intentional about most of my purchases, I'll be honest — I definitely got a little swept away and bought a few items that I'll now have to be very conscious about styling into my everyday wardrobe. (I was glad to have them in the moment, but perhaps I can do better next time). Still, I’m grateful for the chance to experiment — every outfit helps me learn a little bit more about myself, my evolving style, and how to strike that balance between fashion and comfort.
Well that's all I've got for now, friends! Talk soon!
Similar:
What I Wore to Four Weddings This Year
October 26, 2026
As I sit down to write this, we are officially coming down from a four-wedding circuit this year — a new record. Between planning my own wedding and navigating everyone else's, I realize an unholy amount of my bandwidth this year has been consumed by travel, logistics, and, in true SK fashion, obsessing over what to wear. Putting it all down on the blog feels long overdue.
Looking back at my approach, I’ve realized I don't actually have a plan of attack for wedding wear (shocking, I know). Usually, I’m just constantly hunting for pieces that can work across a plethora of events, but sometimes I like to rent something new or invest in a piece I know I am going to rewear.
Wedding dress codes usually give me some kind of anxiety, especially as someone who is a bold and creative dresser. But this year we went to lots of weddings for people that I knew well and who I knew loved fashion, and let me embrace that, which was a gift.
Cocktail
Spring/Summer
I actually found this dress last November while rewatching Confessions of a Shopaholic. What started as an impulse buy turned into a fun choice for occasion wear. This dress is made from three oversized silk scarves sewn together, and the colors are so fun, vibrant, and completely speak for themselves. I paired the dress with a fresh haircut and dye, an orange manicure in OPI's Summer Lovin' Had Me a Blast!, Bottega Veneta drop earrings, a vintage Gucci watch, and my trusty Gucci Super Mini Marmont bag that has quite literally seen and done it all. For shoes, I wore Harajuku Lovers wedges that I've held onto since the tenth grade!
Indian casual
End of summer
My cousin Kristi’s wedding was a big, beautiful weekend with three distinct days of dress codes. For the Maticoor which was held outdoors, synthetic fabrics were a hard no. I turned to Farm Rio, which is always my go-to for rentals because their pieces are colorful, comfortable, and fun. This dress had a subtle Indian-inspired vibe that felt perfect for the setting. With it, I wore my same Gucci bag, a pair of Burberry espadrilles I've owned forever that turned out to be the ideal shoe for the occasion, a pair of Versace earrings that I thought I needed, and a tikka from my cousin Yash.
Indian or formal wear
Traditional Indian clothes and I have had a complicated relationship. Growing up, I rarely wore them, so whenever I put them on, I’d look in the mirror and think, Who is she? It just never felt like me, and as a kid I was unable to explore what 'me' even looked like in them. Today, the landscape is much different with modern designers, but that doesn't mean logistics can't break your heart. I’d be lying if I said I didn't lose sleep over the wedding look! Because buying traditional Indian outfits can cost the price of a beater Honda, I had rented a gorgeous corset and draped skirt set from Masaba months in advance — only for it to not arrive on time, throwing me into an absolute mentyb.
Left scrambling, I had to pivot to a traditional sari, which wasn't my plan, came severely wrinkled, and required help from my fiancé (several rounds of ironing) and my cousin Yash (wrapping and pinning). The last-minute accessory scramble was a mix of Deepa Gurnani Suvani earrings (similar), bangles from an Indian store near me, a borrowed necklace from Yash (Thank you Yashi), and a bigger black Gucci Marmont bag. While I didn't feel completely in my comfort zone, it ended up working out and people gave me lots of compliments!
Black Tie
For the reception, I wore a dress I bought last fall with the idea of wearing it to a few weddings, which now I realize was kinda crazy. It's by the designer ASHISH, whose work I have always loved, and it's so bright and sequined. Sequins mean it is loud — not ideal for jumping to the Killers or Good Charlotte or if you're coming in late and trying to be quiet, but you live and you learn. I wore this dress (similar) with Gucci heels I got for a steal on ThredUp, Bottega Veneta drop earrings, and a Vivienne Westwood bee necklace I bought while we were in NY. I felt most like me this evening, which is hard to explain but such a wonderful feeling.
Semi-formal
Fall
There were lots of things I could've worn from my closet for my friend Marylou's wedding, but I didn't feel inspired particularly by any of them. Plus it has been such a hot, October! Initially I wanted to rent an Aje raffia dress or a Helsa stretch cotton midi dress, but dollars for these weddings were limited, so I rented a Marchesa dress off Pickle for this wedding and another in October. I think what I love about renting clothes is that it is a fun, more sustainable way for me to try new brands and clothes, so it is really a treat to rent a dress, though it can become a pain quickly. Initially I didn't love having to wear it for two occasions and didn't want to be an outfit repeater, but reflecting back, I'd say it was the right choice not only because it was cost-effective, and the person who lent me the dress was great. Sometimes renting an outfit comes down to whether they will fulfill your order, ship it in time, or double book you, but this time it was stress-free and arrived early, giving me time to see how it paired with my closet.
I was dubious about this dress but came around, and what is always the best outcome is that I felt good and like I had dressed appropriately. I wore one of my most comfy pairs of Erdem x H&M heels, trusty bee necklace from Vivienne Westwood, a Louis Vuitton bag, a vintage watch, and I finally got my hair cut and redyed after five months.
No dress code
Fall outdoor/indoor
While I had originally planned to wear my ASHISH dress again, you know, really get that cost-per-wear down lol, I came to my senses and realized that was an absolute no for this wedding. So instead, I re-wore my rented Marchesa dress for our final wedding of the season in Abilene, Kansas. My fiancé was in the wedding party wearing a khaki suit with a burnt orange tie, so part of my strategy with choosing this dress was coordinating with him.
I knew this wedding would have the wildest mix of guest attire. We’re talking everything from shorts, hats and jeans to beautiful sequined and velvet dresses, so I consciously tried to reel myself in a bit. I styled the dress with a pair of earrings my Aunt Indira gave me (similar), my python Gucci Mini Marmont bag, Erdem x H&M kitten heels, and switched up my makeup a little from the previous wedding. I was more on the formal side but still felt great!
Overall, I have come to find through this year of wedding guest shopping, is that it is difficult! It's hard to interpret dress codes, find the right thing — that expresses your personal style with the right materials and for the right price. So here are some of my takeaways:
- Plan ahead & explore resale. Try to think about what you want to wear and how you want to feel early on. If you see a dress or outfit that speaks to you, works for a special occasion, and is something you could see yourself wearing more than once, save it! Even better, start hunting for it on resale sites like eBay, Poshmark, Depop, Vinted, Vestiaire Collective, The RealReal, and ThredUp.
- It's okay to be an outfit repeater. With four different weddings on my calendar this year, I’ll admit I fell prey to wanting something new and unique for every event. But honestly, it’s completely fine to wear a piece, be photographed in it, and repeat it. A look can drastically change with different hair and makeup, shoe choices, or playing with jewelry versus keeping it bare. Wearing what you love, posting it, and wearing it again is conscious fashion.
- Invest where it counts (and rent the rest). Put your money into pieces you know you'll re-wear; shoes and bags are particularly worthwhile investments for me. On the other hand, renting dopamine inducing dresses from time to time makes so much more sense than buying something I won't ever wear again.
- Treat yoself. Invest in beauty and wellness services if it’s feasible for you. While I don't always get my hair done (unless a wedding is local), what I really love is booking a massage or a dermaplaning facial beforehand. Between travel logistics and everyday life, I'm often carrying a little stress, so these services go a long way.
- Try things on. It’s hard to know how an outfit truly fits or works together until you physically see it. We often host fashion shows at home to test out full looks, or I’ll send a video to some friends to get feedback across a broader mix of style perspectives.
- Reflect on your shopping habits. Looking back on this year, I bought a lot, sold a ton and rented some. While I was intentional about most of my purchases, I'll be honest — I definitely got a little swept away and bought a few items that I'll now have to be very conscious about styling into my everyday wardrobe. (I was glad to have them in the moment, but perhaps I can do better next time). Still, I’m grateful for the chance to experiment — every outfit helps me learn a little bit more about myself, my evolving style, and how to strike that balance between fashion and comfort.
Well that's all I've got for now, friends! Talk soon!
Similar:
I'm back on the blog to talk about this dress, which quite frankly was an impulse buy...and yes, even I am susceptible to from time to time.
Impulse Buy
June 27, 2026
I'm back on the blog to talk about this dress, which quite frankly was an impulse buy...and yes, even I am susceptible to from time to time.
Greetings, friends! So much has happened since I last wrote. I interviewed for a new role that seemed perfect for me, got it, and quit my job. I’ve been working full-time in the office for the past few months which has been a transition.
SK Ã Chicago
April 4, 2026
Greetings, friends! So much has happened since I last wrote. I interviewed for a new role that seemed perfect for me, got it, and quit my job. I’ve been working full-time in the office for the past few months which has been a transition.
This year was a lot. I think I started asking if 2025 was over somewhere around mid-January. And while I’m the first person to validate a bad mood, I’m challenging myself to do something a little different: focusing on the joy. Don’t get it twisted — this year sucked, the difficult experiences and negative emotions were all there. But despite the bad, there was actually some good stuff, too. I’m leaning into that today, and by sharing some of the little things that brought me joy this year, I’m hoping you might reflect and find a little of your own.
So, here are 25 things that brought me joy this year (In no particular order, obviously):
1. No Hard Feelings by The Beaches
Most of you know how much I love The Beaches, but their third studio album has brought me a profound amount of joy this year. Even though the singles started dropping back in 2024, the full album finally arrived in August. Despite having half the tracklist on repeat for months, I’m still in my car screaming to Did I Say Too Much. When I think about this year, so much of it was me driving around listening to this album way too loud.
2. My prom-themed birthday party
Even though this feels like a lifetime away, my birthday party was so much fun. Seeing everyone I love in one room, dressed up in their best, dancing, and drinking palomas was so special.
I know you all are probably sick of me sharing these earrings, but sheesh I loved these. Instant dopamine booster.
This exhibition, which featured looks by Jeremy Scott and paintings by Katherine Bernhardt, was so fab I saw it not just once but twice. Oh, and it was free?! Something about seeing so much of Jeremy Scott's work was so exhilarating.
Maybe it was looking at this dress, which I never knew was made out of hair extensions, because the only picture I'd ever seen of it was on Tumblr, or seeing Katy Perry's 2019 Met Gala look, or just the grandiosity of Moschino! I do blame this exhibit for my current Moschino obsession, but the only thing I've added to my collection are some heart-shaped sunglasses, which are a basic!
5. The Every Outfit podcast
My favorite podcast! Every Friday (or every Saturday, there for a moment) is better because I get to listen to Chelsea and Lauren on my way to yoga. From talking about prestige television, film, fashion, Sex and the City, pop culture, and more. I just love listening to these girls!
6. Getting manicures
Who would've guessed that 2025 would be the year that I get my nails done regularly? Normally, I get a manicure with regular nail polish a handful of times. But in October, I started getting gel manicures again. Mainly because there was so much to do, I just didn't have the time or energy to paint my nails, but then I really started to like not having to worry about my nails, and also seeing my nail tech Julie and all the lovely people at my nail salon! Every time I go, I always feel so welcome and special 🥰. My favorite color I got my nails done this year was probably Ochre the Moon (above).
7. My friends from yoga
I've been going to Yoga Patch for a few years now, and the one great thing about being a regular somewhere is the relationships you can build with folks you see often. Familiar faces have turned to friends that have turned into family! Seeing my friends every week, even if all we do is just wave hello across a room, is a joy in itself.
8, Trip to Northwest Arkansas
In September, I went on a trip to Arkansas, which initially didn't go as I had planned. For one, a few days before I left, I got stung on the face by a bee, and the left side of my face swelled up, and I looked like Two-Face. Then, the Airbnb we were staying at fell through, but the great thing is that every twist still led to a memorable and relaxing trip. I got to go inside a Frank Lloyd Wright house. Eat dosa. Relish in little to no thoughts staring above at James Turrell's SkySpace. We broke out Monopoly in our Airbnb in Bella Vista, and never would I have guessed that playing it would be so fun.
9. Projects at home
This year has been a slew of projects. Whether it be researching and investigating a cactus. 2025 was full of silly projects that kept me going. From working with a friend from school to redesign a shirt, or finding someone to reupholster our bar stools (S/o to Threadline, btw. 110% recommend you reach out to Amy), or even framing art. Every little project kept me going. In 2026, I want to create some new cushions for our dining chairs.
10. Seeing my cousins
It's always such a joy to see my family and my cousins. I got to see them in March while we were in Manhattan and then again in July. Time is never enough, but when I think about the year, I think about wandering around with my cousins looking for a spot that would fit us all, watching a movie with my cousin Alvin and his wife Yash, and seeing my cousin Nicole, whom I'm so proud of, and her sweet baby.
11. Swig opening up near my house!
Swig is a drive-through soda chain known for tricked-out sodas. Back in the fall, they opened a Swig right near my apartment, which has been life-changing because sometimes you just need a little treat. Some of my favorites are the Founder with Coke Zero and extra extra lime or Dr. Spice.
12. Walking on the beach in Florida
Back in October, I went to Hollywood, Florida, for a work trip. I started every morning with a walk on the beach, walking aimlessly in one direction, listening to Bon Iver, Maggie Rogers, or Fleetwood Mac. I was amazed at how much better I felt after having my feet in the sand!
13. Board involvement
This year, I joined the board of a local nonprofit dedicated to expanding the reach of mental health services in Kansas City. It has been a privilege to raise awareness and funds alongside such a hardworking staff and a diligent group of fellow board members. I feel incredibly energized by our mission and am proud to play a part in it.
14. Seeing the 40th Anniversary of St. Elmo's Fire in theatre
I know you all are so over me talking about this, but when I heard that they were showing St. Elmo's Fire in theatres for its 40th anniversary, I almost cried. I have so many memories watching this movie at a formative time. To see it in theatres, alongside my friend Taylor, was such a joy. It's so good.
15. Turning Cousin Alvin into a magnet
I got creative with my cousin's Christmas present this year and made him a magnet of himself at one of our favorite theatres in NYC. I outfitted him with a handful of great fits (and coats!). It was a fun project and Alvin loved it =')
16. BAILE INoLVIDABLE by Bad Bunny
Awhile ago I had seen Snoopy dancing to this song on X, and both have brought me so much joy.
19. Thanksgiving at my friend Esther's house and new traditions
The holidays looked different this year. After a season of loss and change, I’ll admit I was dreading Thanksgiving. But despite the shifts, I embraced the changes like a warm family gathering the Sunday prior. Some things stayed the same, like volunteering downtown day of, and a beautiful supper at Sue’s. Black Friday was spent at my dear friend Esther's house and filled with the kind of laughter that heals.
20. My talented friend Jessica's YouTube channel
My dear friend Jessica is so talented and produces all sorts of creative content, but I have felt most connected to her YouTube channel lately. I loved this video she shared about her summer reconnection ritual and, most recently, what's in her purse for a house party.
21. Home
This year, my home has truly been my safe haven. I haven’t had my usual capacity to be out as much or volunteer as much as I normally would, so I’ve leaned into giving back to myself, time to just be. I’ve spent my days lost in books, reading books like First Lie Wins or The Silent Patient, tending to my cacti, and just being among my plants. I’ll be honest: if you cancelled plans with me this year, I might have been sad for a second, but it was quickly followed by a sigh of relief as I went right back to my movie or playing Suika on Switch. It’s been a year of being a homebody.
22. The Muppet Christmas Carol Vinyl
My co-worker Ross is a real gem. I mentioned that I wanted this record on vinyl, and he got it for us for Christmas. Plus, he gifted it to me with ample time to listen to it during the holiday season. Thanks, Ross.
23. My optometrist's dog Emmett
My optometrist has a dog named Emmett, and he is just the sweetest thing. He is constantly lazing around at the shop, and it brings me so much joy to see him and pet him!
24. Bunheads
This was unexpectedly a big ballet year for me, starting with a first-time watch of Bunheads. I have no idea how I missed this show! As an ASP and Gilmore Girls fan, it was such a delight — a perfect, amusing time capsule of the 10s. I found myself rationing the episodes because I just wasn’t ready to say goodbye. Following it up with Étoile, which is fabulous, might I add, was a nice encore.
25. Expressing myself through personal style
Although it hardly made it onto the blog, this was a big year for my personal style. In a year that felt especially trying, getting dressed became a way to reclaim my power and feel like me again. I focused on feeling at home in my body and wearing my clothes. Through a mix of renting, repairing what I already loved, and carefully curated secondhand finds, I found my way, as always, by first getting dressed.
2025 was tough. For so many. So much of what made this year bearable was being surrounded by my people. Thank you for holding me up this year. I feel profoundly grateful to be so well-loved and cared for. I’m hoping 2026 feels a little softer.
25 Things That Actually Brought Me Joy This Year
December 30, 2025
This year was a lot. I think I started asking if 2025 was over somewhere around mid-January. And while I’m the first person to validate a bad mood, I’m challenging myself to do something a little different: focusing on the joy. Don’t get it twisted — this year sucked, the difficult experiences and negative emotions were all there. But despite the bad, there was actually some good stuff, too. I’m leaning into that today, and by sharing some of the little things that brought me joy this year, I’m hoping you might reflect and find a little of your own.
So, here are 25 things that brought me joy this year (In no particular order, obviously):
1. No Hard Feelings by The Beaches
Most of you know how much I love The Beaches, but their third studio album has brought me a profound amount of joy this year. Even though the singles started dropping back in 2024, the full album finally arrived in August. Despite having half the tracklist on repeat for months, I’m still in my car screaming to Did I Say Too Much. When I think about this year, so much of it was me driving around listening to this album way too loud.
2. My prom-themed birthday party
Even though this feels like a lifetime away, my birthday party was so much fun. Seeing everyone I love in one room, dressed up in their best, dancing, and drinking palomas was so special.
I know you all are probably sick of me sharing these earrings, but sheesh I loved these. Instant dopamine booster.
This exhibition, which featured looks by Jeremy Scott and paintings by Katherine Bernhardt, was so fab I saw it not just once but twice. Oh, and it was free?! Something about seeing so much of Jeremy Scott's work was so exhilarating.
Maybe it was looking at this dress, which I never knew was made out of hair extensions, because the only picture I'd ever seen of it was on Tumblr, or seeing Katy Perry's 2019 Met Gala look, or just the grandiosity of Moschino! I do blame this exhibit for my current Moschino obsession, but the only thing I've added to my collection are some heart-shaped sunglasses, which are a basic!
5. The Every Outfit podcast
My favorite podcast! Every Friday (or every Saturday, there for a moment) is better because I get to listen to Chelsea and Lauren on my way to yoga. From talking about prestige television, film, fashion, Sex and the City, pop culture, and more. I just love listening to these girls!
6. Getting manicures
Who would've guessed that 2025 would be the year that I get my nails done regularly? Normally, I get a manicure with regular nail polish a handful of times. But in October, I started getting gel manicures again. Mainly because there was so much to do, I just didn't have the time or energy to paint my nails, but then I really started to like not having to worry about my nails, and also seeing my nail tech Julie and all the lovely people at my nail salon! Every time I go, I always feel so welcome and special 🥰. My favorite color I got my nails done this year was probably Ochre the Moon (above).
7. My friends from yoga
I've been going to Yoga Patch for a few years now, and the one great thing about being a regular somewhere is the relationships you can build with folks you see often. Familiar faces have turned to friends that have turned into family! Seeing my friends every week, even if all we do is just wave hello across a room, is a joy in itself.
8, Trip to Northwest Arkansas
In September, I went on a trip to Arkansas, which initially didn't go as I had planned. For one, a few days before I left, I got stung on the face by a bee, and the left side of my face swelled up, and I looked like Two-Face. Then, the Airbnb we were staying at fell through, but the great thing is that every twist still led to a memorable and relaxing trip. I got to go inside a Frank Lloyd Wright house. Eat dosa. Relish in little to no thoughts staring above at James Turrell's SkySpace. We broke out Monopoly in our Airbnb in Bella Vista, and never would I have guessed that playing it would be so fun.
9. Projects at home
This year has been a slew of projects. Whether it be researching and investigating a cactus. 2025 was full of silly projects that kept me going. From working with a friend from school to redesign a shirt, or finding someone to reupholster our bar stools (S/o to Threadline, btw. 110% recommend you reach out to Amy), or even framing art. Every little project kept me going. In 2026, I want to create some new cushions for our dining chairs.
10. Seeing my cousins
It's always such a joy to see my family and my cousins. I got to see them in March while we were in Manhattan and then again in July. Time is never enough, but when I think about the year, I think about wandering around with my cousins looking for a spot that would fit us all, watching a movie with my cousin Alvin and his wife Yash, and seeing my cousin Nicole, whom I'm so proud of, and her sweet baby.
11. Swig opening up near my house!
Swig is a drive-through soda chain known for tricked-out sodas. Back in the fall, they opened a Swig right near my apartment, which has been life-changing because sometimes you just need a little treat. Some of my favorites are the Founder with Coke Zero and extra extra lime or Dr. Spice.
12. Walking on the beach in Florida
Back in October, I went to Hollywood, Florida, for a work trip. I started every morning with a walk on the beach, walking aimlessly in one direction, listening to Bon Iver, Maggie Rogers, or Fleetwood Mac. I was amazed at how much better I felt after having my feet in the sand!
13. Board involvement
This year, I joined the board of a local nonprofit dedicated to expanding the reach of mental health services in Kansas City. It has been a privilege to raise awareness and funds alongside such a hardworking staff and a diligent group of fellow board members. I feel incredibly energized by our mission and am proud to play a part in it.
14. Seeing the 40th Anniversary of St. Elmo's Fire in theatre
I know you all are so over me talking about this, but when I heard that they were showing St. Elmo's Fire in theatres for its 40th anniversary, I almost cried. I have so many memories watching this movie at a formative time. To see it in theatres, alongside my friend Taylor, was such a joy. It's so good.
15. Turning Cousin Alvin into a magnet
I got creative with my cousin's Christmas present this year and made him a magnet of himself at one of our favorite theatres in NYC. I outfitted him with a handful of great fits (and coats!). It was a fun project and Alvin loved it =')
16. BAILE INoLVIDABLE by Bad Bunny
Awhile ago I had seen Snoopy dancing to this song on X, and both have brought me so much joy.
19. Thanksgiving at my friend Esther's house and new traditions
The holidays looked different this year. After a season of loss and change, I’ll admit I was dreading Thanksgiving. But despite the shifts, I embraced the changes like a warm family gathering the Sunday prior. Some things stayed the same, like volunteering downtown day of, and a beautiful supper at Sue’s. Black Friday was spent at my dear friend Esther's house and filled with the kind of laughter that heals.
20. My talented friend Jessica's YouTube channel
My dear friend Jessica is so talented and produces all sorts of creative content, but I have felt most connected to her YouTube channel lately. I loved this video she shared about her summer reconnection ritual and, most recently, what's in her purse for a house party.
21. Home
This year, my home has truly been my safe haven. I haven’t had my usual capacity to be out as much or volunteer as much as I normally would, so I’ve leaned into giving back to myself, time to just be. I’ve spent my days lost in books, reading books like First Lie Wins or The Silent Patient, tending to my cacti, and just being among my plants. I’ll be honest: if you cancelled plans with me this year, I might have been sad for a second, but it was quickly followed by a sigh of relief as I went right back to my movie or playing Suika on Switch. It’s been a year of being a homebody.
22. The Muppet Christmas Carol Vinyl
My co-worker Ross is a real gem. I mentioned that I wanted this record on vinyl, and he got it for us for Christmas. Plus, he gifted it to me with ample time to listen to it during the holiday season. Thanks, Ross.
23. My optometrist's dog Emmett
My optometrist has a dog named Emmett, and he is just the sweetest thing. He is constantly lazing around at the shop, and it brings me so much joy to see him and pet him!
24. Bunheads
This was unexpectedly a big ballet year for me, starting with a first-time watch of Bunheads. I have no idea how I missed this show! As an ASP and Gilmore Girls fan, it was such a delight — a perfect, amusing time capsule of the 10s. I found myself rationing the episodes because I just wasn’t ready to say goodbye. Following it up with Étoile, which is fabulous, might I add, was a nice encore.
25. Expressing myself through personal style
Although it hardly made it onto the blog, this was a big year for my personal style. In a year that felt especially trying, getting dressed became a way to reclaim my power and feel like me again. I focused on feeling at home in my body and wearing my clothes. Through a mix of renting, repairing what I already loved, and carefully curated secondhand finds, I found my way, as always, by first getting dressed.
2025 was tough. For so many. So much of what made this year bearable was being surrounded by my people. Thank you for holding me up this year. I feel profoundly grateful to be so well-loved and cared for. I’m hoping 2026 feels a little softer.
There's a top in my closet. A beautiful piece with a delicate floral overlay, from a collection I was obsessed with. It was something I'd wear all the time, and it became a staple in my collection. But as seasons changed, so did my body, and somewhere along the way, it just stopped working for me.
My Spin on a Staple
November 9, 2025
There's a top in my closet. A beautiful piece with a delicate floral overlay, from a collection I was obsessed with. It was something I'd wear all the time, and it became a staple in my collection. But as seasons changed, so did my body, and somewhere along the way, it just stopped working for me.
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