OOTD: Inspired evolution

This outfit began with some inspiration from Kendi Everyday....a blogger whose style and clothing I adore.  I saw the following outfit and wanted to recreate it for work. 

I have a very similar tank with a smaller animal print.  I didn't have the same pants, but I do have slacks in a mint color.  I don't have any summery black booties, but I do have black peep toes.  I don't like to sport sleeveless at work, but I can add a fun blazer to top of the look. 
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And here is what evolved from the inspiration photo....

Here's What I Wore:

Blazer- $12 at Dots
Tank- 99cents at Denton Thrift
Pants- $2 at Thrift City
Heels- $9 at Cato
Bracelet and Earrings- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Necklace- $1.99 at Charolette Rousse
Outfit total- About $28

~Kendra~

OOTD: Skirt Shocked

So...my skirts a little bright, but I just couldn't resist snagging it when my boyfriend and I were on a weekend getaway in Fredricksburg, TX earlier this month.  He sweetly took me took Goodwill (because he knew I'd been dying to go) before we headed back home to reality.  I have been think of a way to wear this skirt and I like it here, bc I feel like it balances it out and makes it a little more subdued.  I have some other ideas too so you will definately be seeing more of this skirt!!  What do you think....to bright or perfect punch of color? :-)

Here's What I Wore:

Cardi- $12 at Old Navy
Tank- $9 at Target
Skirt- $5.99 at Goodwill
Belt- Free w/top at Cato
Heels- $20 at Cato

Necklace & Earrings: $1 at MIZ Accessories
Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit total- About $50

~Kendra~

All about my weight loss

I received several comments on a previous post asking to hear more about my weight loss jouney so I wanted to share it with all of you....
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On March 14, 2011 I randomly (Seriously...I have no idea why) decided I was officially going to loose weight, get in shape and make a huge change.  I started by eating 1,200 calories a day.  For exercise, I did Zumba in my apartment from Youtube videos, random workout classes and running (Well, more like speed walking at first). 

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After "speed walking" for a while, I met a girl in my apartment gym and we started running together a few nights a week.  She was a great encouragement for someone who was never a runner.  I have asthma and was never really the athletic type.  Other than varsity swimming in highschool, I was not at all in to sports.

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My 1,200 cals a day were broken down into 3 small meals and 3 snacks.  Snacks are mainly fruit (bananas, apple slices, grapes and strawberries) and various 100 cal snacks. 

For meals, chicken and turkey are great, because I'm not to into steak and alot of beef...just don't like it.

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When I started my weight loss journey I weighed in at 194.4lbs and when I am now in the 120's.  I have lost about 70lbs total.   Once I hit my weight loss goal, I wanted a new challenge...I finally felt athletic and I wanted something more.  My boyfriend and I decided to do P90X. 

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Here's how it went....

 

 

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I really enjoyed P90X, but it was a long 1 and 1/2hr plus workout everyday.  It felt like another thing on the to-do list...nothing something I was passionate about.  I wanted my fitness/workout routine to be something more....something I loved...to ensure I stick with it for the long haul.

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This is what led to my decision to try MMA.  My bf had mentioned it several times and I wasn't sure...then we went and toured a professional gym where real fighters train and I was so excited.  The energy was great and I was inspired.  We are only on week 2 of MMA training, but I already feel like a member of a team and part of an awesome sport. I also feel active and healthy.  This journey has been an amazing one.  This is definately not the end....there's so much more to come. :-)\

~Kendra~



OOTD: Seasoned with Pattern

Here's What I Wore:

Cardi- Gifted from Bf (The Limited)
Black Sily Tank- $10 at Talbots Outlet
Skirt- $12 at Cato
Belt- Gifted from Bf (Forever 21)
Wedges- $16 at Marshalls
Earrings & Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit total-About $40

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Today was a whirlwind day.  Started with the electricty going off on the entire block....while I was in the middle of doing my makeup.  Then had a busy, but great Monday at work.  After work...some dramas.  Then I went to MMA class and the stress of the day just melted away.  Working out always makes me feel so much better!!!  What do you like to do to melt the stress?

~Kendra~



OOTD: Girls Night Out

My friends and I have a weekly girls night.  Ussually it consist of wine, bad (but super yummy) food, girlie chats and lots of laughing at one of our houses on a work night.  This week we decided to have a Saturday night out so we could get dressed up, go to a fancy sushi place and dance the night away.  Although, it took us like 5 trys to find a good dance place....we had an awesome time!!!  Aren't girls nights such good times??!!

 

Here's What I Wore:

Dress- $10 at Marshalls
Belt- Free w/skirt at Target
Wedges- $16.99 at Payless
Earrings & Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $30

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Here's a little group photo of us girls before hitting the town....

~Kendra~

OOTD: Casual Friday with Sparkle

Here's What I Wore:

Army Green Blazer- $3 at Thrift City
Sparkle Top- $9 at Talbots Outlet
Jeans- $20 at Talbots Outlet
Wedges- $6 at Goodwill (With org tags from DSW)
Bracelets & Earrings- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $40

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On a random note....in the comments someone asked me about MMA.  MMA is mixed martial arts.  I'm training in it, which includes boxing, kick boxing and Brazillian Jujitsu.  Right now Im focusing on boxing and kick boxing and am training at a professional gym.  4 days of training down and I am absolutely loving it.  I am a girlie-girl who never thought I would fight a day in my life, but since I have lost weight (Almost 70lbs total) I just have this feeling that I can do whatever I want....regardless of what I used to think or who I used to be.  I'm the new me, the more driven, daring me. (Not that I don't ever have days of self-doubt....don't we all?!)  My dad was so excited to hear about my new adventure....my mom was shocked.  hahaha

Whar do all of you do to workout and stay in shape?  Anything out of the norm for you or have you tried any new/exciting workout lately?

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~Kendra~

OOTD: Nuetral Mixing

I snagged this cardi for a great deal at the thrift store.  It looks brand new, not at all dull and I know I will get a ton of wear out of it this fall and winter!!!  I had been waiting to wear it and this outfit needed a finishing touch....the cardi was perfect.  Took the outfit from boring to fun and fashion-y.

Here's What I Wore:

Cardi- $3 at Thrift City
Ruffle Tank- $1.50 at Thrift City
Camel Slacks- $9 at Talbots Outlet
Wedges- $16.99 at Payless
Bracelets & Earrings- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Watch- 99cents at Thrift City
Outfit Total- About $35

~Kendra~

OOTD: Work Appropriate Animal Print

Here's What I Wore:

Bow Top- $3 at Thrift City
Skirt- $4.99 at Cato
Heels- $19 at random mall store
Bracelets & Earrings- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $29

~Kendra~

OOTD: Business Casual & Colorful

I still haven't been feeling 100% and after a hard workout yesterday (I'm now training in MMA) I was sore and worn out, so I wanted to be work appropriate, but comfy.  For me that means skinnies, a flowy top and a bright cardi. What does comfy casual mean for you?

Here's What I Wore:

Necklace- Gifted from Beau (Forever21)
White Under Tank- $5 at Walmart
Top- $3 at Goodwill
Cardigan- $9 at Talbots
Black Skinnies- $12 at Walmart

Gold Flats- $9 at Payless
Earrings & Bracelet- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $40

~Kendra~



OOTD: Work Wear with Flair

I really like adding colors and patterns into my work wardrobe.  Im not one for stuffy suits and plain combos.  I can't help but add some flair. :-)  Here's how I jazzed up a pencial skirt and top by adding some spalshes of color and ful pattern.

Here's What I Wore:

Top- $3 at Denton Thrift

Skirt- $5.99 at Goodwill in Fredricksburg

Belt- Free w/dress at Charolette Rousse

Heels- $19 at random mall store

Earrings and bracelet- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories

Necklace- $2.99 at Cato

Outfit Total- About $33

~Kendra~

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 29 & 30



Day 29:  Friday couldn't come soon enough...hehehehe  This was one of those weeks where the mornings flew by, but the afternoons dragged on and on.  You ever have those?? Plus (as you can see in the pic) it started getting rainy on Friday so my hair was out of control. lol  It didn't hold a curl at all...so annoying!!!  But all in all, friday was a good day, because I found out I am moving to Customer Care at my job which means I will be inputting and answering customer complaints.  I really love my job and I am so thankful it has had so much oppourtunity for growth and movement thus far.  I have been there a little over a year and have made my way from Customer Service, to the Escrow Department, to the Research Department and now Customer Care.  Good times...I'm so thankful to have a job I enjoy!!!! (HUGE BLESSING)

Here's What I Wore:

Cardi- $6.99 at Target in NE

Pink Top- $3 Thrifted
White Tank- $5 at Walmart
Skinnies- $12 at Ross
Sandals- $10 at Walmart
Earrings- Came with a jewelry set for $10 in Biloxi (so $5)
Bracelets- about $2 combo of Target and MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total: About $44
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Day 30: Last day of the accessory challenge...woohoo, I made it through :-) As I have worn my jewelry I have put it into a big container to ensure I'm not tempted to wear it again, which means although I have gone for 30 days without wearing the same jewelry all those earrings and necklaces behind me haven't even been worn yet.  Yeah, I may have a jewelry obsession problem. hahaha
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So Saturday I got to get a bit on the dressy side for my friend Corrine's bridal shower.  She's get to marry the love of her life in September, so we celebrated by giving her lots of cute lingere.   Good times!!!

Here's What I Wore:

Dress- $11.99 at Goodwill in Fredricksburg

Belt- $3.99 at Goodwill in Fredricksburg
Necklace- $5.99 at Charolette Rousse
Bracelets- About $4 at Target
Stud Earrings- $1 at Walmart
Wedges- $16.99 at Payless
Outfit Total: About $43

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Accessory Challenge completed....woohooo!!!!

~Kendra~

Sew guess what???

I got a sewing maching....wooohoo!!!

I haven't done any sewing since college, but lately I have been getting the itch to try it again.  I am so excited to restyle some old clothes and start on lots of DIY projects.  Here's my first one....

~Kendra~

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 26-28

Day 28 (Today):  I still haven't fully gotten over being sick 3weeks ago....those upper respiratory infections don't give up easily!!  Luckily I had this shirt and skirt hangin in my closet.  It was perfect, because it was 1/2 work appropriate and 1/2 as comfy as pjs..good combo!!

Here's What I Wore:

Top- $7.99 at Herbergers in NE
Skirt- $12 at Target
Sandals- $10 at Walmart
Necklace & Earrings- $1.99 at Cato
Silver Bracelets- $1.98 at Thirft City
Black Bracelet- 50cents at Garage Sale
Outfit Total- About $35

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Day 27:  I didn't get outfit pics, but I did snag pics of my accessories.  Simple, classis black.

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Day 26: I don't wear this top much, but I really love it.  I had a hard time figuring out how to wear it, but this is my fav combo with it thus far. I think it is way cuter when it isn't tucked in and it looks better with a skirt than pants. Do u have any fickle tops that take a little trial and error?

Here's What I Wore:

Striped Top- $12 at Marshalls
Skirt- $1.99 at Thrift City
Belt- $1.98 at Talbots Outlet
Wedges- $10 at Payless
Earrings & Bracelets- $1 at MIZ Acessories
Outfit Total- About $28

~Kendra~

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 22-25

Hope everyone had a great weekend.  I sure did.  Before I tell you about my weekend....here's what I wore Friday to work.  I have been hanging on to this necklace for months now, but was never sure what to pair it with...finally I decided it would look great with stripes and a bold colored pant.

Here's What I Wore:

B/W Top- $3 at Thrift City
Blue Skinnies- $12 at Ross
Necklace- $5.99 at Charolette Rousse
Bracelets and Earrings- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Heels- $19 at random mall store
Outfit Total- About $42

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Now on to the weekend fun...

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My boyfriend and I met up with his family in Fredricksburg, Tx for a fun weekend of wine, shopping, live music, good food and lots of catching up.  Here are a few shots from the weekend....

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I didn't take any full outfit shots while I was there, but here at the accessories I wore...

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I woke up this morning after that super fun weekend and so did not wanna get out of bed for work, but regardless I got up, got dressed and I was off to work.  It was def a comfy kind of day!!  Luckily it went by pretty fast.

Here's What I Wore:

Pink Blazer- $1.99 at Denton Thrift
Striped Tank- Gifted from mom at Cato
Black Skinnies- $10 at Walmart
Bracelets & Earrings- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Necklace- $1 at MIZ Accessories
Heels- $5 at Payless
Outfit Total- About $20

~Kendra~

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 21

After today I am beyond ready for the weekend!! This week has been a crazy whirlwind.  I am so looking forward to a weekend away with my boyfriend and his family in Fredricksburg...wine, good food, little shops...I can't wait!  :-)

Here's What I Wore:

Dress- $12 at Ross
Belt- Free w/ dress at Charolette Rousse
Necklace- Gifted from Beau
Bangle- $1 at CCA Thrift
Earrings- 50cents at MIZ Accessories
Wedges- $16.99 at Payless
Outfit Total- About $30

~Kendra~

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 20

My coworkers know how much I adore fashion so when I wear something "comment worthy" they make sure to let me know. lol  So today I got alot of interesting ones like.... "It looks very picnic-y"  and "It's kind of like a stylish cowgirl look"  Cracks me up!!  I love to try new things, mix and not really match...all that.  Thankfully as I have grown up, the older I get the more and more I dress for me and what I love and the less I dress for others.  Don't get me wrong...I love a good compliment on my outfit, but my bestie will sometimes tell me she "isn't really feeling my outfit" and it doesn't phase me.  It feels so good to have grown out of that hyper sensetive, super self-concious girl I used to be.   Horray for the good things about getting older. :-)

Here's What I Wore:

Plaid button-down- $5 at Thrift City
Jason Wu for Target Skirt- $3.99 at $8 Fashion Outlet
Wedges- $16 at Marshalls
Belt- $6 at random mall store
Earrings & Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $33

~Kendra~

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 19

This outfit almost never happened!  Why, you ask...  Well, this skirt and tank we're both in my "going to goodwill closet" (yes, closet on my patio with like 9 bags of stuff I need to donate).  The other day I had the urge to shop, but instead of splurge I decided to dig through what I had previously hidden away.  I acctually stumbled upon a ton of hidden gems....this tank and skirt plus, 2 pairs of Talbots trousers, 3 dresses, various tops and a few plain colored tees that will be great for layering.  Free shopping.....what could be better??!!

Here's What I'm Wearing:

Blazer- $9 at Dots
Coral Tank- Gifted from Gma
Pleated skirt- $1 thrifted
Belt- Free w/skirt at Target
Peeptoe Heels- $12 at Cato
Earrings- 50cents at MIZ Accessories
Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $24

~Kendra~



30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 18

Saturday I finally managed a trip to my all time fav thrift store.  I hadn't been in weeks, bc of business trips, travel and being sick.  I was soooo glad to go back!!  Thrift City is a pretty big store with lots of hidden gems.  Plus they always have certain colors tags 1/2 price everyday...and around holidays and special occasions you can get even better savings!   This trip I scored this lovely Lauren Conrad tank along with this coral skirt.  Some items that aren't pictured that I was lucky enough to snag....pastel teal cropped pants and a black ruffle tank.  I ended up spending a little over $10.  Good deals!!! 

Here's What I Wore:

Flowy Blazer- Gifted from the boyfriend
Lauren Conrad Tank- $3.99 at Thrift City
Skirt- $1.50 at Thrift City
Flower earrings & Necklace- Gifted from the boyfriend (Forever 21)
Heels- $9 atPayless
Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total: About $15 (Crazyness!!)

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 16 & 17

Day 16: We recently had a huge acquisition at work, which means optional OT....gotta love it.  No really, I don't mind the OT, bc the paycheck after OT is always nice!! :-)  More shopping lol
So anyways....Saturday was a busy day!!  I worked 4hrs, took the pups to get their haircut, went to lunch and watched Total Recal w/the boyfriend and then went to bed early bc I still haven't fully recovered from being sick over a week ago.  The day called for comfy and casual, but still a hint of style.  I think this outfit did just that :-)

Here's What I Wore:

Coral Tee- $5.38 at Target
White Tank- (unseen) $4.88 at Walmart
Skinny Jeans- $13 at Ross
Black Sandals- $10 at Walmart
Earring- $1 at Dollar General
Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $46
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Day 17 included Church, getting the pups shots, getting my haircut  and then eating dinner and watching the new Dallas with the boyfriend.
Here were my accessories...didn't get around to taking an outfit pic:

~Kendra~

Accessory Challenge: Day 15, Part 2

So Friday night my boyfriend and I decided to go out to dinner and then the comedy club.  I love get all dressed up for our date nights.  One shoulder dresses have become a staple for me!  I love them, bc I feel more covered than wearing a strapless dress, but I feel like they are still sexy enough for a night out. 

Here's What I Wore:

Dress- $18 at Dots
Belt- Free w/skirt at Target
Earrings- $5 at Charming Charlies
Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Wedges- $16.99 at Payless
Outfit Total- About $41

~Kendra~



30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 15

Here's What I Wore:

Blazer- $12 at Dots
Ruffle Tank- $9 at Cato
Skinny Jeans-$13 at Ross
Red Heels- $16 for Target
Belt- Free w/skirt at Target
Necklace & Earrings Set- $1 at MIZ Accessories
Bracelets- 6 for $5 at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $50

~Kendra~

30 Day Accessory Challenge: Day 13 & 14

Day 13

Here's What I Wore:

Blue Dress- $12 at Ross
Black Studded Belt- $1 at Garage Sale
Black Heels- $19
Bracelets & Earrings- 6 for $5 each at MIZ Accessories
Outfit Total- About $34

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This week has been insane with overtime, learning new processes at work, lots of transitions due to the growth of the company....busy, busy!!  This outfit saw me through a busy work day, plus an amazingly fun girls night with my 2 work besties, drinks and sushi.  Good times!!

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 Day 14

Here's What I Wore:

Dress- $12 at Dots
Blazer- $9 at Dots
Belt- Gifted from Beau (Charolette Rousse)
Earrings & Bracelets- 6 for $5 each at MIZ Accessories
Heels- Gifted from mom (Payless)
Outfit Total- About $23

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This accessory challenge has been great....it's really helped me to break away from my recent pattern of just wearing silver and gold.  Colorful jewelry is back in my rotation and I'm loving it!  

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~Kendra~