What’s In My Tote Bag

Blouse || Jeans || Heels || Tote Bag || Earrings || Bracelet || Watch || Hair by Sip and Dry

This may sound like the most boring aspect of blogging, but I secretly love being able to look into data. Finding out what you’re interested in and why is a huge part of how I operate my blog. After all, it wouldn’t mean anything without my loyal readers. Anyways, I was blown away to find out that my most popular item of 2019 was actually my tote bag. Even though I didn’t get my Gucci Ophelia Bag until June for my birthday, it was my most clicked item of the year. When it seems like the whole world has invested in a Louis Vuitton Neverfull bag, I like how this bag seems like a rare find. So, to give the people what they want, I thought I would explain a little bit about the bag and let know you what’s in my tote bag!

About The Bag

Before this bag, my daily pick was this oversized Longchamp Le Pliage Tote Bag. This puppy has traveled the world with me and it was beginning to look like it. Since moving to New York, where everyone has at least one Louis Vuitton or Goyard tote to their name, David wanted to treat me with something special for my birthday. At first, I was leaning towards the Goyard because of the different color options it came in. Then one day, while just window shopping the in Gucci store, I spotted their Ophelia tote. For about half the price of the Goyard, I got the same amount of space, great quality, and a zip closure for security. I have used it daily ever since and it hardly looks worn at all! If you are wanting to invest in a designer work bag, this would be my recommendation.

My Camera

Since living in New York, I have developed a habit of always keeping my (charged) Sony a6000 camera with me at all times. Let’s face it, the quality difference between an iPhone and DSLR is indisputable. Nothing is more frustrating than missing out on the perfect picture because of equipment. When I’m driving around in my neighborhood, I may pull over to take a picture of the quaint bungalows, especially if the lighting is just right.

My Planner

Even in a super tech world, I still prefer my hardcopy planner. In my Erin Condren Life Planner, I am able to keep track of blog content, work for school, and whatever is going on in my personal life. I’ve had several brands of planners throughout the years. While I can make anything work, I love that the Life Planner is customizable, easy to use, and not too big.

My Laptop Sleeve

Even if I leave my laptop at home for the day, which is rare, I always keep my laptop sleeve from Barrington Gifts in my tote bag. It fits perfectly inside my tote bag and adds an extra layer of protection for my wallet and pens. Barrington Gifts has a huge selection of items that are completely customizable. Even the monogram is included!

I’ve never been one to write so much about one product in my rotation. But, if I see a huge interest, I want to meet your needs. When it comes to shopping, if there is anything you want to ask, please let me know! I like to think of myself as your own personal shopping. Don’t be afraid to reach out!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Red Florals from LOFT

Dress || Wedges || Handbag || Earrings || Bracelet || Watch

As I was flipping through my Instagram recently, I realized it’s been a while since I shared a fun red dress. The last time was during the holidays and I must have gotten a little exhausted from wearing the color so often. Even with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, cheerful reds aren’t just for the different holidays. If you have more of an olive skin tone, like I do, it can be your most flattering color and should be a closet staple!

On the other hand of this conversation, it’s been even longer since I’ve posted anything floral. This print is all I’ve been thinking about! I think it has something to do with moving back to Florida, where on-trend style doesn’t match the rest of the country. I also think Julia Engel from Gal Meets Glam has a huge hand as well. The woman certainly knows how to rock a good floral with ease. Whatever it is, I vaguely remember saying last year how I hardly ever wear flower prints. Oh, how the times are changing!

Both of those closet confessions come together with this beautiful printed dress from LOFT. I was smitten as soon as I saw it while online shopping. And trust me, it’s even prettier in person. The dainty floral print is paired perfectly with a paisley trim and is incredibly flattering with the waisted belt. It’s the kind of dress I know I can wear at work, but also into date night with the right pair of shoes. I opted for my go-to navy espadrilles from Castaner, but I may have it try it with knee-high heeled boots, like these from Sam Edelman.

If you love the print, but could pass on the dress, there are options for you too! While I love the dress, I secretly wish I ordered the midi skirt. I love the idea of it styled with a crisp white shirt and flat sandals. There’s also a blouse and even a kimono duster. It would be such a great choice if you’re going for more of a boho-chic style. Whatever your persuasion, there is something for you!

While we’re still in the first month of 2020, take a look into your closet. Do you notice a color or style missing? Now is the perfect opportunity to try something new, both in your closet and out.

Love from Florida,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

I Got a New Car!

Tee || Jeans || Heels || Scarf || Handbag || Earrings || Watch || Bracelet

I got a new car! With moving away from NYC, it was time to say goodbye to taking the subway and hello to finding a new car to match our life. Since David and I both got rid of our cars prior to the move, we were back at square one for transportation. Although it was an overwhelming task, it also gave us an opportunity to start from scratch and find the cars that matched our needs. Since car buying can be a lot, here are the top picks I was looking at, plus the pros and cons for each.

Volvo XC60

• Pros: This was my top choice. What can I say, I love the Swedish design and engineering. When you buy a Volvo, you’re buying quality and safety. Considering the fact that this will be a future family car, it’s something that was deeply part of decision making.
• Cons: This is a luxury car and the price tag for the Volvo XC60 was the steepest of them all. As we prepared for our move back to Florida, we had a lot of expenses to cover: a moving truck, getting a new apartment, and getting a second car for David. It just wouldn’t have been a smart choice to add a bigger car payment to the list.

Subaru Forester

• Pros: When I went to the Subaru dealership, I was so blown away by the safety features that come standard with any Subaru. With a Subaru, you’re also buying into one of the highest rated cars by consumers. Subaru customers absolutely love their cars.
• Cons: I was so impressed by the Forester, I was ready to walk away with a new Subaru after just one visit. The problem with that, they wouldn’t have any available until January. Since we moved in November, going two months without a car just wasn’t going to work for us. I guess it wasn’t meant be.

Volkswagen Atlas

• Pros: The newest model from Volkswagen has everything that you would possibly need for space. With a third row and lots of cargo room, this will hold everything. This car is also identical to the Audi Q5. You can have all of the luxury without the high monthly payment.
• Cons: Even though my old car was a 4-Door Jeep Wrangler, I thought the Atlas seemed way too big. Also, the bucket seats design in the second row wasn’t going to be a good fit for when we need to take our dog around town. It’s an amazing car, but just way more than what I needed.

Volkswagen Tiguan

• Pros: The Tiguan seems to be the best of all the worlds. I get a compromise on size from the Atlas, all of the safety features I was looking for in the Forester, and a much friendlier price tag than the XC60. Because I was offered a great deal on the SEL, I also get to enjoy the most high tech bells and whistles.
• Cons: Honestly, I don’t there are any! At first, we weren’t sure if the color I wanted, this beautiful emerald green, would be available. The dealership was so accommodating and got me the car of my dreams.

With so many midsize SUVs out there, it can be hard to sift through and find the best choice for you. While I am by no means a car expert, I leave that title for David, sometimes it’s helpful to get an outside perspective.

Love from Florida,
Katie

Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.