KATIE KENNEDY - Page 169 of 265 -

NYC Style in Florida

January 14, 2020

NYC Style in Florida

Jacket || Cami || Jeans || Wedges || Handbag || Earrings || Watch || Bracelet

Although I am so happy to be back in Florida, there some things I miss about living in NYC. That year and a half away was short, but I feel like I grew so much as a person. One of the biggest changes was about my own personal sense of style. It shouldn’t come as a surprise. NYC is practically the fashion capitol of the world and inspiration is everywhere. Since moving back, I’m trying to find a balance between laidback St. Pete and my love for NYC style. Let’s take a quick dive into how I (try to) maintain NYC style in Florida.

NYC: Tweed Jackets

2019 in NYC was the year of the tweed! I simply couldn’t get enough of this preppy staple. It is just so timeless, classic, and has a Chanel like quality. I may not be in a position to buy Chanel clothing, but I just can’t give up tweed! This little jacket, a much cheaper alternative from H&M, is so great to throw on for a night out. It’s almost the only extra layer I need in Florida.

FLA: Espadrilles Wedges

A destination city calls for a resort pair of shoes! Espadrilles have been my go to shoe of choice since high school. Flats, wedges, or sandals, I find them to be the most comfortable shoe style out there! Although they are normally seasonal, I’ve been able to wear them almost everyday in 2020. Word of caution though, don’t wear them on rainy days! Other than that, they can pair with just about everything. Castañer espadrilles are the absolute best!

NYC: The Color Black

If there was an official color of New York City, it would absolutely be black! Since it’s the best color for hiding dust and grim, it only makes sense. It’s also incredibly chic and flattering. While it’s always the best choice for a hot Florida day, I still want to wear it a little more often I used to. I’m loving this black eyelet sundress from Topshop.

FLA: Rattan Handbags

I’ve dusted off my Cult Gaia bag and I’ve been using it for almost every night out. Even though I’ve had it for a few years now, I still get compliments each time. Rattan and wicker accents are my jam! Adding this fun kind of element makes me feel like I’m on the perfect beach vacation. On my rattan shopping list are these fun earrings from Tuckernuck and I’ve already been loving my wicker loafers from Christmas.

Although I would never say to completely change the way you dress based on where you live, I’ve loved the way my tastes have shifted. By combining the laidback culture of my city with the chicest elements of New York, I can feel like the most fashionable gal in the Sunshine City.

Love from Florida,
Katie

If you are more interested in travel than style, be sure to visit my exclusive travel page, here.

Back in the Classroom

January 13, 2020

Back in the Classroom

Teacher, Classroom, School, J. Crew Factory, Teacher Style

Tee || Skirt || Similar Flats || Tote Bag || Earrings || Watch

I have the most exciting news to share! After taking a hiatus from the classroom, I’m happy to say that I’m back! Better still, I’ve taken over a 4th grade reading classroom right here in St. Pete. While I learned so much during my time as a private school teacher in the UES, teaching in public schools will always be home! It feels so good to be able to call myself a teacher again.

Being a teacher has been part of my life plan, pretty much, since I was in elementary school. Working with kids is exactly how I want to spend my 9 to 5 life. Is it stressful? Is it exhausting? Do I wish teachers made more money? Yes, yes, and YES! Still, it’s just so rewarding to see a student have a “lightbulb moment” on something they’ve been struggling on. To me, knowing that you make a difference to a roomful of students is worth more than any six-figure salary.

As I shared in my recent, Back to Florida post, my career was a huge factor in our decision to move back. Although being a stay-at-home wife, while working on a blog, sounds amazing, I was getting a feeling of restlessness. I am notorious for wanting to stay busy. My time away from the classroom wasn’t going to be permanent. I just wasn’t sure if New York City was the city for me, teaching wise.

When we made the decision to move back to Florida, the first thing I wanted to do was get back into teaching. I feel so lucky that there was an opening at a really great St. Pete elementary school just minutes from our apartment. Between being able to move down and finding a new job, it’s like the universe was clearly working in our favor.

For the blog, this is going to mean a few different things. Obviously I won’t have as much time to work on the blog. Teaching is a very unique in that I can’t leave simply leave my work when the day is through. Many nights require staying late or writing lesson plans at home, during my free time. I’m still going to try my hardest to share daily posts, but please forgive me if some of them go to the wayside. Obviously my first priority is being a teacher first. At the end of the day, I want to be easier on myself if I can’t find the time to hit ‘publish’.

Since I’m back to work daily, I’m excited to share more teacher and work style to inspire, no matter what your job title is. A new mirror has been ordered for my home office and, if you’re interested, I’ll be sharing quick, in the moment, OOTD. For my teacher readers, you’re going to love these posts, especially one I have planned for next week about teacher footwear. See you soon!

Love from Florida,
Katie

If you are more interested in travel than style, be sure to visit my exclusive travel page, here.

Travel Guide: Northern Vermont

January 10, 2020

Travel Guide: Northern Vermont

Graphic Tee (ON SALE) || Sweater || Jeans || Boots || Earrings

Obviously, I love David for a whole laundry list of reasons, but a major perk of him being from Vermont. Before we started dating, I had never been to the Green Mountain State and seriously doubt I would have ever made it up there. Specifically, he’s from the northern part of the state, up towards the Canadian border, and I’ve learned that there’s just so much to love. Since we’ve made many trips together over the past few years, I finally ready to give you a quick guide on what to do in Northern Vermont.

Go Skiing

Vermont is a ski-lover’s paradise. From north to south, you will find a ski resort with exactly what you’re looking for. In northern Vermont, the big name to know is Stowe. Because of it’s proximity to Burlington, it’s extremely popular. The town itself has so much to offer, including a ski museum, boutiques, and great dining options.

Brewery Hop

While you’re in Vermont, it’s hard to escape the brewery scene. Vermonters are extremely passionate about their beer, I would know because I married one. There’s also a sort of cult following when it comes to VT brews. Whenever we visit, we are loaded with requests to bring some home because it’s hard to get elsewhere. Names to know are The Alchemist and Von Trapp in Stowe, 14th Star in St. Albans, and Switchback in Burlington. If you’re not much of a beer drinker, they also have great cider options.

Pilgrimage to Ben & Jerry

Is there any better ice cream than Ben and Jerrys? You may not know this, but this ice cream power house also calls Vermont home. Their original shop was at a converted gas station in downtown Burlington. When they grew, they moved into a huge factory, a few towns away in Middlebury. There, you can see the whole production learn, the history about the company, and even get to sample a limited release flavor. It’s a must do for any dessert lover.

Exploring the Charming Towns

New England, in general, is absolutely flush with quaint little towns and Vermont is no exception. Even when you’re driving around aimlessly, you’ll stumble upon cute boutiques, local places to eat, and so much character. Since no two towns are alike, it pays to stop and get to know each one.

Von Trapp Family Lodge

Long before the Sound of Music became an internationally cherished movie, the Von Trapp family escaped Nazi-occupied Europe for the United States. They ultimately made Stowe, Vermont their home because the Green Mountains reminded them of home in Austria. Today, you can visit the family home, which has been turned into a cross-country ski lodge. Next door to the property, you will also find Von Trapp Brewing, another nod to their homeland.

Burlington and Lake Champlain

If you are flying to Vermont, you’ll have to make a pit stop in Burlington, the largest ‘city’ in the state. Why not stay for a quick visit? Situated on Lake Champlain, this is another opportunity to take in the Vermont beer culture. Although very small compared to other cities in New England, it’s still a great place to recharge and shop before the flight home.

Since I’ve yet to experience a summer in Vermont, when it’s the perfect time to hike and mountain bike, the bulk of this list is with winter in mind. I also can’t fail to mention visiting for the changing leaves in the fall. Whenever you decide to visit Northern Vermont, you’re going to have an amazing time! Enjoy spending time with nature and a quiet trip away from the chaos of the everyday.

Love from Florida,
Katie

If you are more interested in travel than style, be sure to visit my exclusive travel page, here.