Spring Favorites

Hello Pretty People,

I hope your week has been filled with endless sunshine and positive vibes. Today I am going to share a few my favorite things from this Spring, from books to beauty products. These are products or things that I have been using a lot this season and I thought I would share them with all of you.

(Starting with the first picture)

1. Essie St. Lucia Lilac: This is such a perfect nail color for the spring season, it’s light and it follows the pastel color scheme everyone loves. I have been wearing this on my toes and it’s so cute and girly. This nail polish costs about $8.50 but you can find similar colors else where.
2. Mask of Magnaminty-LUSH: This is an all natural, self-preserving face mask from LUSH, it is amazing and I am loving it. It has been helping me fight my stress breakouts and leaving my skin feeling fresh. It is for both your face and back, but I have mostly used it on my face. The mint makes your face feel tingly and leaves it smooth. It is the perfect deep-cleansing mask to fight all breakouts and refresh a tired face.
3. Iced Coffee: I have always been a lover of iced coffee but especially in the warmer season this is my go-to drink. It’s also a whole lot cheaper than buying a fancy latte and it is cold summer drink.
4. Vogue (March edition): Vogue is obviously my favorite fashion magazine, hence part of my blog title. This contains the best high-fashion styles and news, along with seasonal trends. Definitely a must-have for your beach bag!
5. Forever 21 Grey Tee: I recently picked up a basic grey v-neck tee from F21 and I love it. The fabric is light and it matches basically every piece. Grey is one of my favorite colors to style with because it is a neutral. Although I got mine from F21, you can find something similar anywhere.
6. Madcap Coffee Co.: I just visited this cafe in downtown GR with my friend Tessa, I’ve only been there once but the coffee was good and the atmosphere was relaxing. It was decorated in white, the original brick was exposed and the street view tied in the whole environment. If you are ever in GR, you should check out this cafe.
7. Spinning: As I mentioned in a recent post, spinning has been my fitness obsession the past few weeks. I burn killer calories, it boosts my metabolism and I feel refreshed the whole day. Spinning is a great workout, check it out if you have the chance. It’s the perfect
8. #GirlBoss: I started to read this book about a year ago, but I had to return it to a friend and was unable to finish it. But, I recently received this as a gift and I am restarting the book and I will probably take it along with me to France. This book gives women a look into starting your own business and kicking a** while doing it. Sophia is the perfect example of a #GirlBoss and this book inspired my #GirlBoss series.
9. Pura Vida Bracalet: This is one of my favorite companies because with the purchase of a bracelet proceeds are given to a charity (depending on the bracelet you choose). I chose “for the oceans” and a percentage of my purchase went toward marine life conservation and ocean preservation.
10. Victoria’s Secret Body Lotion: This lotion has been my everyday post-shower lotion, it leaves my skin smooth and soft. I use the coconut milk scent, but there are many other scents. I also was using the Acai body wash up until I ran out. I was unsure about trying these products but I have adored them.

I’d love to hear about your favorite Spring items in the comments below or on Twitter. These are just a few of my favorites and I may do another while I am in France for my French inspired favorites, if you would like to see that let me know.

Thank you for reading this little post today, I hope your Wednesday has been great. I am working on another #GirlBoss right now and I will hopefully have that next week. I am also wondering what you guys would like to see in my posts from France, let me know in the comments as well. Thank you again for reading, see you soon!

Happy Wednesday.

xo,

Lyss

Today’s Inspiration:  

Squeeze The Day With This Outfit

Hello Cuties,

The beautiful weather looks like it’s finally here to stay, which means break out the dresses and sandals because summer is close. Today I am sharing my #OOTD from my Mothers Day festivities yesterday.

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Dress from TJ MAXX // Purse from Forever 21 // Shoes from American Eagle // Sunglasses from H&M // Jewelry from Forever 21

I found this dress at TJ Maxx, which makes it hard for you to find on your own, but the style of the dress reminds me a lot of the dresses at Francesca’s. This dress is casual but also dressy, you can pair it with some summer wedges or just your favorite sandals. I chose to wear a simple flip flop from American Eagle because I was attending an outdoor picnic. (I was barefoot most of the time) I paired the outfit with my new cream colored cross-body purse, which I originally bought this purse for my trip to France, but I wanted to break it in yesterday. It is the perfect size for summer parties though, it is compact yet it fits all my necessities.

You may not be able see my jewelry very well in these pictures but I am layering two necklaces, one is gold with a little circle pendant covered in little gems and the other is a longer necklace with a simple gold triangle on it. Layering jewelry is a growing trend in fashion but it is something I have always loved. It can be hard to invest in jewelry, but it is an easy way to spice up a simple outfit. I buy most of my jewelry from Forever 21 because it is affordable and it matches the current trends. It may not be super durable but for the price it does its job. I would also recommend Francesca’s or Charming Charlies for jewelry.

Overall, I loved this outfit for the weather yesterday. It was comfortable and casual, but still dressy. I will for sure be packing this one for France.

Speaking of France-I will be beginning my travel related posts very soon, giving tips on packing and preparing to study overseas. While I am there I will be sharing my adventures and outfits with all of you. If there is something specific you would like me to post about while I am there let me know before I depart. (June 23rd) I am so excited for this journey and the opportunity to share it with all of you.

Thank you for reading this small outfit post today. Stay tuned for more posts like this and more of your favorites. I hope your Monday is filled with possibility and your week is filled with goals, work hard and be kind.

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss

Monday Motivation:

End of the Semester Motivation.

Hello Readers,

The winter semester is finally coming to a close and it’s time to dig up that last ounce of motivation. I did a post similar to this back in the fall semester and I think it is fitting to do a new spring themed one, the weather is changing and it’s time to get back into that happy lifestyle. We have about 2-3 weeks left, depending on your university, and it’s time to buckle down. Finals are fast approaching, along with endless research assignments and last minute quizzes. So…

Where do you begin?

The trick is to “Just Start” somewhere, anywhere. If you sit down and dive right into an assignment, you are one step closer to being done. I really tried to do this technique this past weekend, but the weather made it inevitable. But, this is the best way to accomplish anything. Using this mentality for finals week will make you get ahead quicker than you think. Just keep moving!

Today, I am going to give you best advice to enjoy the weather but get s**t done while you are at it.

Get organized…today

You need to layout your last couple weeks, this will not only reduce stress and anxiety, but it will make you feel more accomplished with each assignment you finish. Hopefully you have been utilizing an agenda, if so then write in all your due dates, along with final exam times. Another thing I do on top of that is make a separate list with everything that needs to be accomplished that week. That way, when I finish something I can cross it off the list.

Take breaks

This is the part where you enjoy the weather. I have never been one to cram in the first place, but I am a true believer in getting out of your study brain and taking a break. For example, a friend and I went to the beach to see the the sunset the other day. It was a simple 2-3 hour trip that allowed me to step back from the week and breathe. Another break idea if you are cramming is to study in 30-40 minute intervals, then take 15 minute breaks. This keeps your mind fresh and makes retaining information easier then non-stop studying.

Find a study spot

I love my library, but during this time of the year it is packed full. Finding a new study spot is key. I enjoy heading downtown to a cozy coffee shop because they are less packed, quiet and there is coffee. I am also the most productive in these settings. You can pick any place really, just make sure you can be productive and comfortable.

Water & Snacks

You’re right in the middle of studying and all of a sudden your stomach growls, you haven’t eaten all day. My best advice is to always pack some snacks and water. Hydration is important always, but even more crucial when you are supposed to be on top of your game. Snacks help you stay focused as well because you won’t have to leave your focused zone to go find food. Pull out your inner soccer mom and pack a cooler.

Sleep

My favorite of all…sleep. Getting enough sleep during these last few weeks in crucial to keeping your mind sharp. Pulling all-nighters is not the key to success. Sleeping will help you be more awake and retain the stuff you are studying better. So, do not follow the crowd  mentality and sleep in the library, go home get your 8 hours and start early the next day.

These are just a few of my personal tips, there are endless ways to prepare for this week but we all know the best is when it’s over. Exams are important but so is our mental healthy and stability. Treat yourself. When you accomplish a large task, celebrate with an exhilarating outdoor workout or a pizza for that matter. What ever feeds your soul, do it. In the end, all the study time and exams will just be the past. Always remember that everything happens for a reason and things will always work out one way or another.

Now I’ll share some of my favorite quotes that will hopefully give you a little mental motivation for the weeks ahead:

Thank you for reading this short post today, once again I will be crazy busy this next week and I will do my best to post. I should have a #GirlBoss at some point this week so keep your eyes open for that. I wish you the best of luck and strength to make it through the semester. Just dig deep to find that last ounce of motivation and focus. Good luck on finals and remember, you can do this!

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss

Kendall College of Art & Design Capstone Fashion Show

Hello Readers,

It’s another Friday and that means we are that much closer to the end of the semester. I am so excited for this semester to come to close and be on to summer festivities. The weather is finally warming up here in the mitten (I may have jinxed it just now…) and that means better moods and beach days.

Wednesday night I had the opportunity to attend the Kendall College of Art & Design Capstone Fashion Show: UnEarth that displayed collections from seniors at KCAD, which were inspired by the elements of the Earth. The show was all around outstanding, from the venue to the collections, my expectations were definitely exceeded. When I got to the show I ran into some familiar faces, such as the ladies from Parliament and designers I had met at the previous show. I am so thrilled to be getting involved with such a growing community.

The venue for this event was at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market on the second floor in one of the green houses. It had that NYFW feel, which was super fun. It was such a beautiful spot to hold the show. The show began at 8:00 pm, beginning with some of the underclassmen’s designs, which were representing Peaks, Valleys and Coast. These were very unique pieces, they incorporated a lot of different textured fabrics and 3D aspects. I loved how these young designers combined the earthy tones and theme with high-fashion, wearable pieces. These garments were tailored so well, it was truly unbelievable to think these are my peers creating such amazing garments.

Picture by Briana Morell | Follow Bri @brianamorell

After a short intermission, it was on to the main event, Capstone Collections. There was a total of 7 collections; all bringing a different style to the runway. Eva Chen was the first designer to display her collection, which was called “Conglomerate”. She mixed earth tones and textured fabrics with this poppy red material, they were unique and memorable pieces. Next was Alexis Troxell, her collection included 3D knits, mixed media and ready to wear pieces, she called her collection “Dreamstate”. One of my favorite collections in the show was Audrey Langejans. Her collection, called “neo-luxe”, included neoprene sportswear and handmade footwear. Emphasizing on the footwear aspect, Audrey is the first KCAD student to make shoes and to create a line for her collection. I was able to interview Audrey after the show, which I will share her specific thoughts below.

A few of the other designers, including Rose Stone, Rachel Krause and Layla Jones, experimented with styles like bridal collections and hand fabricated textiles. Rachel Krause not only put out at stellar collection, but she also did her models hair and make up for the show. Out of all the models, her models definitely had the most unique make up. (Top image is one of her models)

Nicole Cruz-Flores was the last designer in the show, but her collection definitely left a lasting statement on the crowd. Unlike all the other designers, Nicole made the risky decision to showcase a lingerie collection. She mention that this was opposed by many but she did not care she wanted to make a statement. I really loved her for having this attitude because in the fashion world you have to be willing to defy the odds to be successful. I also had the opportunity to interview her on her future career plans and this particular collection.

Here are my interviews with both Audrey and Nicole:

What was your favorite part about this specific project?

N: Nicole decided to change her collection half way through the semester to lingerie, she took a risk in order to pursue what she truly wanted to design.

A: Audrey not only created a collection for the show, but she also created all the marketing for the event. Things such as the fabric programs we received at the show and the banners inside the building. She said she had the most fun with this project. She also mentioned being a senior has been a fun journey and creating her line of shoes was another highlight.

How did you prepare for this collection (Sketches, fabric choice, etc.)?

N: Nicole said she always starts with picking fabrics and then she moves into the sketching process. For this project she said she dived into sewing as quick as she could.

A: Earlier in Audrey’s schooling she had taken a footwear class at KCAD which had prepared her and inspired her for this footwear collection. Another influence was her industrial design class, she really wanted to incorporate industrial design techniques and styles into her capstone collection. To start, she examined the fabrics she wanted, specifically neoprene and then she worked on her designs. For the shoe collection, she had to work on refining the leathers and creating 3D prints. One of her favorite pieces out of the collection was the couture jacket she had made in a previous class.

What were some difficulties you had with this collection?

N: People being uncomfortable with the idea. Nicole mentioned how creating the lingerie was very risky because many people told her it could be offensive to some people in the audience. But, she disregarded these thoughts and pursued the collection she wanted to create.

A: The shoes were the most difficult piece in Audrey’s process. She explained the long process to me. She has to start by making prototypes and use a 3D printer. She has to test the prints to make sure they are the right size and shape they need to be. She wanted to make the shoes look handmade without making them look handmade. She wanted people to ask “Did she really make those?”

What are your future plans?

N: In the future, Nicole would like to start her own brand of lingerie and swimwear.

A: Audrey’s dream would be to start a handcrafted footwear company in West Michigan. She really wants to start with shoes.

| Follow Audrey on Instagram: @aglongjeans |

| Follow Nicole on Instagram: @Bon.Nicole |

More pictures from the show:

Photography by The James Morton Company.

Check out more pictures from James: @jamesmortonco

Overall, the show was well organized and the collections were beyond expectations. These young designers are sure to go far, keep your eyes open for their names in the future. I was so honored to be able to attend another KCAD event and I hope to continue attending. It was also such a pleasure to be able to interview some of the designers. I am so excited to see what their future brings. Be sure to catch more pictures on my Instagram account and news about my next event on my Twitter.

Instagram: @betweenvogue_vangogh | Twitter: @Vogue_VanGogh

Thank you all for reading today. This event was so fun to attend and I hope you all are enjoying these local coverage posts. It is super fun for me to do them, so let me know your feedback. If you do like these posts, subscribe below. I also have to give a huge thank you for James Morton Co. for being my personal photographer at the event, your time was greatly appreciated. Just a quick reminder that my next two weeks are busy so I may not be posting as much but don’t forget about me. Stay connected with me through the links above. Thanks again.

Happy Friday.

xo,

Lyss

Trend Forecast: Spring Inspired Outfits

Hello Readers,

Today I wanted to bring you some of my favorite spring inspired pieces, the weather is slowly beginning to warm up in Michigan and I cannot wait to begin Spring festivities. I will also be attending another fashion show this coming Wednesday, be sure to check back next Friday for more fashion inspired posts.

This will just be a brief style post covering some of the current trends I have noticed and I will continue to post similar posts when I feel as though there is a new trend occurring. I would really love to hear your favorite trends too, so please share them with me on social media or in the comments.

Let’s Begin:

Starting with shoes, I am absolutely loving these three styles of shoes for the spring/summer season. They can be paired with anything from ripped boyfriend jeans to flowy summer skirts. I honestly, do not own any of these but they are definitely styles that I will have on my radar for spring shopping.

I really like these styles as well, especially for warmer spring days. They are utilizing the style of denim in different ways; denim is really a versatile fabric for the spring. I was shocked to see denim skirts making a comeback earlier this year but I am starting to like the button up styled ones. I feel as though they are a classic All-American style.  I am also really feeling dresses for this season, although I have yet to wear a dress in Michigan, I think they are a great spring/summer outfit.

I am planning on wearing a lot of dresses while I am in France. Jean shorts are another classic style, but I am really disappointed to see girls wearing them past their booty cheeks, it’s unflattering. I think a classy length is more suitable. Pairing these outfits with tennis shoes or trainers will give these outfits a more casual feel. Perfect for a busy spring day!

I have always loved street style and that is partially why I love the spring season, you can start to break out your spring pieces but spice them up with layers. I really like the middle outfit above because I feel as though it is really fitting for those of us in the northern states because it’s still in the 40’s throughout April. This is a perfect little outfit to wear your favorite kimono with jeans and a sweatshirt, stylish yet warm. Ripped boyfriend jeans are also a great touch for the spring. With the fluctuations in temperatures, ripped jeans are a great way to ease into the weather change. I am really into a “minimalist” look for the spring, wearing lightweight fabrics and pastel colors make for a classic style. A simple white button up will never be “out-of-style”.

Street style is perfect for season changes because as your closet begins to change you can just pair just about anything and call it street style. Mixing winter favorites with spring favorites could not be a more perfect way to maximize your clothing choice but also expand your style.

These three bags are ones that I have been adoring this season. The pink one sticks out to me for my trip to France because it’s a cross-body that is small enough to carry as an everyday bag and through airports and train stations but it also zips for safety from pick pockets. The second bag is not the exact one I want but I plan on going to local farmers markets a whole bunch this summer and I really want a big bag that I can take with me to stuff full of veggies and fruits. The last handbag is just a simple style I have always loved, it’s versatile for all seasons and it’s a large bag that can hold a lot. I love handbags because they can really make a simple outfit more complex by adding a pop of color.

Check out Kate Spade for these styles.

*Disclaimer: These pictures and outfits are taken from Pinterest. These are only my personal suggestions based on what I have seen thus far this season. Everyone has different styles, these are just my all time favorites. Feel free to share your favorites with me.

Thank you all for reading this little post, I know it probably seems like I continue to hint around spring in my recent fashion post but spring has not officially sprung here in Michigan. (It was snow today!!). I cannot wait until that day. Tune in tomorrow to my Twitter account @Vogue_VanGogh to catch some shots from the opening reception of Color of the Year at UICA. I will  be sharing that post early next week. Enjoy your weekend!

Happy Fri-YAY!

xo,

Lyss

Windsor, Canada

Hello Readers,

I hope you all have had a relaxing spring break, if you are on a break, or a productive week if not. As I stated in my last post, this post was going to be in a surprise place. Yesterday, I ended up traveling to Windsor, Canada with my boyfriend and family. It was a short trip across the border but still super fun. I recommend this trip to anyone looking for something to do but in a crunch for time. You obviously have to have a passport or enhanced license, but it’s worth the extra money to have that on hand anyway.

We got a room at Caesars Windsor Hotel, which had a beautiful view of the Detroit River and the city skyline. We, of course, were there for the casino part of the hotel but it was a very accommodating hotel. We did not get to visit the pool, but we will on our next trip. Since the drinking age in Canada is 19, I was able to walk right up to the bar and order a drink, this was a fun touch to the trip.

As you know, I am not like a normal college that drinks often but this was a fun experience. Although I struggled to find a drink I really liked, it was nice to have the freedom to order what I wanted. I am already planning to return in August with a group of friends to celebrate my boyfriends birthday, I cannot wait.

This quick trip was such a fun little getaway for me, it was relatively inexpensive (minus the gambling) and it was relaxing. Something about the city lights at night relaxes me.I am so happy I was able to take this trip with the people I love.

If you went anywhere for spring break I would love to hear about it on Twitter or in the comments below. I am working on some new projects for you guys and I cannot wait to show you all. If you want to be the first to know subscribe below or find my page on Facebook Vogue and Van Gogh. 

Thank you all for reading this little post today. I cannot believe the weather recently, it makes me so inspired to bring you guys the best content. Keep reading, and share the posts you like to help me grow. I appreciate the support!

xo,

Lyss

Hello Spring.

Hello Cuties,

Today, the weather in Michigan was slightly warmer than it has been, a crazy 60 degrees. It looks like the Spring weather is slowly rolling in and hopefully staying. Since it is March though, I figured a proper welcome to the season was necessary.

Spring is the season of cleaning, new fashion and fresh air. So I want to share some ways to gear up for the fresh weather.

Spring cleaning:

This is the perfect season to start fresh; whether that is your closet, agenda or car, clean it up! Starting with your closet, this is the most important step before you purchase a whole new Spring wardrobe. The best rule of thumb is if you have not wore the piece in a year, toss it. This can be a hard task to part with items you have owned for awhile, but you can fill the space with fresh styles. Although, I believe there are classic pieces in all closets, so if you truly believe that the style will return or it will come in handy later, keep it.  After cleaning out your closet, remove everything and reorganize it. Buy new storage units or dividers to maximize space. Since I live in a small college apartment, I do not have a lot of room to work with, but my closet has a really awesome organizer that maximizes my space. I also added some storage towers for sports clothes, summer/ winter clothing storage and other items. If you are someone who swaps closets depending on season, you can begin to pull out the shorts and tanks and swap them for the bulky boots and coats. After performing the difficult task, you can move on to filling the void with new clothes. Cleaning up other parts of your life is also important as well. Clean your car out from all the Winter trash build up, and wash the outside to remove salt stains and dirt. Another aspect is your thinking area, or your desk space. Make sure your agenda is clean and dates are updated to any changes. Also, picking up your desk will make things easier to find and remove any unnecessary trash or papers.

| Small Closet Organization | Ikea |

Spring Fashion: 

I have recently talked about Spring fashion in the Trend Forecast post called Spring Colors. This season is bringing so much more than amazing colors, this is a great season to build a stellar wardrobe. I do not have many tips to share on this topic but I will share a couple photos that represent some of my favorites for this season. My biggest tip for this season is to buy versatile pieces that can crossover from Winter to Spring and into Summer. This way you are also maximizing your style and clothing investments.

My Favorites: Boyfriend Jeans, T-shirt Dresses, Wedges and Basic T’s

Clean Eating:

Now that Farmer’s Markets are reopening and more fruits & veggies are coming into season, there is no better way to start clean eating habits. Not only does this allow you to enjoy the weather and get outside, but you can get healthy foods at low price. So, while you are cleaning out your closet, don’t forget to detox your body from all the winter comfort foods and hit the gym for a good sweaty workout.

My Favorites: Berries, Cucumbers and Smoothies

Get Active:

Clean eating is important to staying healthy but getting a workout in a couple times a week will not only make your body work more efficiently, it will also make you feel amazing. Getting the motivation to get up and go for a run or it the gym can be hard, especially in the cold. But, since the weather is turning it is the perfect time to get outdoor workouts in. This helps motivate me to run more. I enjoy running outdoors rather than on a track indoors, so find your motivation and get active. As you also know, I am involved in a dance for fitness class that is super invigorating and gives me the perfect energy boost in the morning. Whatever your method may be, find it and use it.

My Favorite Workouts: Running, Yoga and Spin

Lastly, Try Something New:

There is no better time than this fresh season to give something new a try. For example, I have not cut my hair short since 8th grade and I just chopped it yesterday. Getting a fresh look or taking a new adventure can really open up some new inspiration and spirit for the rest of the year. Life gets busy, but don’t get so caught up in the destination that you forget to live. Try something new, often.

 

I hope these tips can help you prepare for the rainy and fresh season of Spring. I know I can’t wait for those warm rainy days, where I can curl up with a good book and blanket in the morning and hit the farmer’s market in the afternoon.

If you want me to extend on any of these topics in another post, let me know in the comments below or on Facebook. Tweet me your favorite Spring rituals or what tips you have for me? (@Vogue_VanGogh)

I also wanted you all to know that my plans fell through to attend the Chicago Hair Show this upcoming weekend. Although, I may be traveling to Canada later this week but no plans are set in stone yet. Therefore, my next post will be a surprise! Thank you all for reading this post today. Please share. I have been working toward getting consistent viewers and your loyalty is important to me. I do not want you to feel forced to read my post but if you are someone who likes to keep up with me you can either subscribe to my email list or find my page Vogue and Van Gogh on Facebook. Thank you all!

xo,

Lyss

 

No Beach, No Problem!

Happy Friday Readers,

So, it’s time for spring break and everyone is off to the nearest warm state with a coast line, am I right?

Well not me! (Booooo!)

While everyone is packing up and running off to the warm weather, you’re stuck watching from your bedroom window. Probably slightly jealous and angry. But, no worries because I am going to give you a list of ways to make your chilly spring break almost as good as a warm beach.

1. Hot Yoga Class: It may not be the beach but it will feel like it. Hot yoga is a great workout and stress reliever. This class will leaving you sweating! After the class, grab a organic smoothie, then it will really feel like your on spring break.
2. Enjoy the empty gym: This may not seem like the most exciting part, but it will be nice to use all the equipment you desire without a line. The indoor track will be open and the weights will be all yours.
3. Pamper yourself: While the others are out wasting money on snorkeling and swimming with dolphins, you can save your money but still treat yourself with a mani/pedi or a massage. Who would want to spend hundreds of dollars to swim with majestic sea animals?! Two words–OVER RATED…okay that’s one.
4. Gambling: If you do not care about saving your money this may be a more suitable option for your taste. Go to a casino, throw a little money around and hope you come out on top.
5. Cafe or Bar hop: I added both because I cannot bar hop but I would recommend the idea to those of age. Visiting some new spots around town may not be a bad way to get out and explore. It will also make you feel adventurous like your friends who are zip-lining in Mexico or whatever.
6. Day Trip: Visit a city that is only a couple hours away for a day trip. Since I am near Chicago I am thinking about doing a day trip there. Make some of the big stops like the Shedd Aquarium (basically like I am snorkeling) and Navy Pier.
7. Meet up with an old friend to talk about high school: Since you’ll have nothing better to do, you will probably go home over break and be bored out of your mind. Instead of sitting around watching re-runs of Drake & Josh, meet up with that acquaintance from high school to make it look like you have a life. Don’t forget to post it on social media though.
8. Read a book: Now that you finished midterms and piles of homework, start a new book to “clear” your mind. You can picture yourself at the beach, even though you are under that fuzzy blanket your grandma got you.
9. Binge watch Fuller House:If you haven’t already neglected real responsibilities to watch a TV show, now is the perfect time to start. Although Fuller House is probably what I will watch, you can choose whatever show is best fitting to you.
10. Visit your Grandma: Tired of all that take-out and campus dining? No worries, you have plenty of time to go see your grandma and have her cook you a homemade meal. If you mention how much food you don’t have back at school she may send you home with extras.

Although these ideas are said in a sarcastic way, I truly recommend them. Having a week of from school and responsibilities is great. Take the time to visit with friends and family you don’t often see, pamper yourself and enjoy the quiet time. Being stuck at home can be crappy,especially if you live in a cold state like Michigan, but if you are optimistic to the break it can be spent productively.

I hope you liked this quirky post, I thought I would try to have fun with it. I also want to recommend some things from what I mentioned above. If you are in Michigan or the GR area, these may be some places you want to check out.

Cafes: The Sparrows | The Lantern Coffee Bar | Sip Juice Bar | Le Bon Macaron 

Books: Leave Your Mark | Adventures for Your Soul 

Hot Yoga: Funky Buddha | Hearts Journey Wellness Center

Thank you for reading today, cuties! Whether you are going somewhere or not, always keep a positive outlook. Be present in the moment and do not envy others. Be adventurous this spring break no matter where you are, do something for yourself and do something that sets your soul on fire. I hope you all have a safe and relaxing break! Don’t forget to check out Vogue & Van Gogh on your favorite social media platforms.Also, check out the News tab to figure out the latest fashion trends and news.

Enjoy the day!

xo,

Lyss

Hey, It’s Okay.

Good Morning Readers,

I promise I have been thinking of great posts for you guys, but today I really wanted to post another inspirational quote. The past two days have been beyond crazy for me, I’ve had multiple meetings and appointments, as well as deadlines to meet. I finally submitted two huge scholarships that have been taking over my life. So, if you have been sitting there wondering why my most recent posts are “blah”, this is why. My schedule has just been never ending and finding time to write great content was not happening. But, next week is my spring break and though I am not going anywhere, I am excited to keep you guys reading on the beach. This all leads to my quote today. Life gets busy, things get crazy and we all become a hot mess at some time. Things start to feel like they are falling apart, just before they come together.

Throughout this semester, I have picked up a job, spent free time writing essays and continued with my normal school work load. Through it all, friends and family kept telling me “it’ll be okay”. I have not believed them. It’s always easy for someone else to tell you it’s okay but they don’t know what you’re going through, so you ignore them. “I will not be okay?!”

Well, truth be told…they are probably right. I say this because as humans we tend to over analyze our lives and every detail. Many of us see every situation in the worst way possible. We think we are not capable of achieving greatness, but that is far from true. The people that are telling you this are probably seeing something you may be missing. They probably believe in you more than you believe in yourself. They are seeing your potential further than you are.

On Monday, it felt like every thing was falling apart for me. Everyone kept telling me things will be okay. I didn’t see it. I was too consumed in my thoughts to believe them. Today, I feel so happy. I was able to fix the things that felt like they were falling apart and I accomplished a lot in two days. I finally submitted scholarships that were bring me a lot of stress and I started my day with an awesome dance class. Although I thought the world was going to fall apart, everything was just coming together. Change takes time, but so does realizing it.

This post is dedicated those of you out there feeling like things are crumbling below your feet, deadlines are approaching and responsibilities are piling up. Hey, it’s okay! You are going to be okay, I promise. It may take awhile for things to fall back together but eventually they will. Believe in yourself and your potential . Be determined and driven to accomplish your biggest dreams and goals.

So, no matter what you are going through believe that everything WILL be okay. You are strong, and you can accomplish more than you know. Next time you get the “It’ll be okay” text, respond with “Hell yeah it will!”

In light of today’s quote, listen to this: Be OK-Ingrid Michaelson

Thank you all for reading today. I do not know if you like these inspirational posts or not, I just like them because they are based off feelings I am having and I like to share to make my readers not feel so alone if they are experiencing similar issues. Please give me your feedback either in the comments here or on my new Facebook page Vogue & Van Gogh. Your thoughts are appreciated.

Also recommended: Never Under Estimate Yourself

Happy Wednesday.

xo,

Lyss

Monday, February 29th

Happy Leap Day Everyone,

Today is not only Monday, but it is a leap day. What’s better than an extra Monday in the year?! I hope you all have plans to be super productive and use this day wisely. I know I am super thankful for this day because I have scholarships due on March 1, and if this day didn’t exist I would have been frantic. Although my day is busy with school and essay writing, it will still be used productively. What are you going to do with this day? 

As most of you all know I am a lover of Monday’s and Mornings (weird, I know), so this day could not be more perfect. I just wanted to bring you guys a little Leap Day Monday Motivation. Everyday is so important, it’s okay to think about the future and set plans but don’t forget to live in the moment too. Life will go by quick, you don’t want to be stuck in the future and miss the present. I am a person who loves planning and setting goals for the future, and there is nothing wrong with knowing what you want, but be aware of the current moment and enjoy it. That is what makes me so excited for this day, it’s an extra day to make someone smile or accomplish a new goal. Live your life to the fullest, don’t worry about others petty thoughts and believe in yourself. doubting yourself is worse than someone else doubting you, only you can live the life you want, so why are you going to let you hold you back (not grammatically correct, but you get the point). I challenge you to make the most of this beautiful day and accomplish something great. Go for a run outdoors, grab a coffee with a friend or do something for yourself; whatever it may be that makes you happy, do it!

Thank you all for reading this short, but sweet, post. I recently created a Facebook page for my blog and if you are a person that views it from Facebook, give me a like. This will help me reach more viewers and provide you guys with news and updates. But, for now I have to go to my dance for fitness class. I hope you all take advantage of this day the world has given us and make the most of it. Don’t forget to share this inspiration with a friend!

Happy Monday.

xo,

Lyss