tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66672925132133526562024-03-13T16:39:05.789-07:00𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚌𝚘𝚊𝚜𝚝 𝚙𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚕Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-87790611285207617732019-04-22T21:33:00.002-07:002019-06-16T18:01:21.113-07:00Camo Cool<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "crimson text" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px;"><a href="https://store.roosterteeth.com/collections/rwby/products/rwby-ruby-floral-camo-windbreaker-jacket?variant=13636428791856" target="_blank">RWBY Ruby Floral Camo Windbreaker Jacket</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "crimson text" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px;"> || <a href="https://rstyle.me/n/de5esfcjqip" target="_blank">HUF Essentials Long Sleeve T-Shirt</a> || Lightwash Ripped Jeans {<a href="https://rstyle.me/n/de5evxcjqip" target="_blank">similar</a>}</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "crimson text" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 15.4px;">Black Leather Ankle Booties {<a href="https://rstyle.me/n/de5exwcjqip" target="_blank">similar</a>}</span></span></div>
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In the beginning of the year my day to day style is a lot simpler; more casual pieces paired together to create a full look. I am obsessed with this camp windbreaker from the Rooster Teeth Store and pairing it with the bright long sleeved tee and ripped jeans really allow it to be the star of this show.<br />
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I've loved playing with some less form fitting silhouettes these past few months. Androgynous style is a huge trend in countries like South Korea and Japan, two countries I draw huge street style inspiration from. I majorly lucked out because Robbie and I have similar tastes when it comes to these sort of looks, as well as similar sizing! I'll tell you a secret - these jeans were actually his before the rips got out of control (which is definitely my fault from over wearing them). Truly a boyfriend jean.<br />
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What sort of looks do you find yourself gravitating towards during the cooler weather? Is this something you could see yourself wearing? Let me know down below.<br />
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Until next time ♥<br />
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-28260977544696931062019-02-14T01:57:00.000-08:002019-06-16T18:00:50.493-07:00Finishing Touches || Watches<div style="text-align: center;">
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I'm a girl who loves accessories: hats, glasses, scarves, seriously I love them all. But out of all the accessories there are, there is only one that I truly feel lost without — the watch. My dad has always loved watches. My siblings and I used to buy him so many different ones for birthdays and holidays when we were growing up. He bought me my first nice watch, and I wore it for over a decade! I still have it, and believe it or not, still wear it sometimes. It's still the only silver watch I've ever owned! Something about being able to combine style and jewelry with functionality is so satisfying. My personal collection isn't very big, but I love cycling through the styles and having a different piece to suit my outfits.<br />
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I've worn and loved all of these watches and can't recommend them enough. They've each spent a lot of time attached to my skinny wrists and you'll love them on yours too!<br />
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1. Kate Spade - <a href="https://www.katespade.com/products/luggage-metro-watch/KSW1142.html" target="_blank">Luggage Metro Watch</a>; Okay so I don't have this exact watch, but last year for my birthday Robbie gifted me the most gorgeous Kate Spade watch with a mother of pearl face, leather strap, and gold detailing. But it seems to no longer be available on the site, and this one is very similar! It's one of my favorite dressier pieces. I wear this a lot when I work professional events as it's lightweight and looks mature without sacrificing the fun and femininity that I love.<br />
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2. Rosefield - The Boxy in <a href="https://www.rosefieldwatches.com/us/watches/the-boxy/white-rose-gold/rose-gold" target="_blank">Rose Gold</a> & <a href="https://www.rosefieldwatches.com/us/watches/the-boxy/white-gold/gold" target="_blank">Gold</a>; These two watches were sent to me some months ago as a part of two campaigns Rosefield was running, but I have continued to wear them all these months afterwards. They're so dainty but the square faces make these watches pop. Rosefield also has a ton of colors and styles, as well as interchangeable bands which is pretty cool.<br />
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3. Klasse 14 - <a href="https://klasse14.us/collections/shop-all/products/volare-classic-rose-gold-mesh-42mm-watch" target="_blank">Volare Classic in Rose Gold Mesh</a>; Klasse 14 gifted me this watch nearly 18 months ago and I wear it all the time. I mentioned it before, but I'm a girl with skinny wrists and because of that I have always shied away from the chunky boyfriend style watches, despite loving them on everyone else. The Volare is the perfect middle ground to solve that problem. The clasp is adjustable but holds super strong, and the large face gives the illusion of the boyfriend style without becoming clunky or uncomfortable.<br />
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4. Apple - <a href="https://www.apple.com/watch/" target="_blank">Apple Watch</a>; I couldn't write a post about watches without mentioning my MVP, my most worn watch - no contest. The Apple Watch is my everyday go-to. Having a smart watch was something I never knew I needed until I saw one and was jealous of everyone around me. This was another gift from Robbie and I can't imagine my life without it. I still use a Series 1 watch and I guess it's slower than it used to be, but it's not noticeable to me. It's still insanely helpful to the point where I wouldn't dream of traveling without it. It holds your boarding passes, receives texts and calls, and keeps an eye on your body for you. What more could you want?<br />
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Is there a watch from my list that you'd like to try out? Or something you recommend and can't believe that I missed? Let me know in the comments below!<br />
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-6177050909095950602019-01-25T19:43:00.000-08:002019-06-16T18:01:35.698-07:002019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh hey. Happy 2019! I'm back.<br />
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I took 2018 off from the blog. At the end of 2017, I'd just gotten home from Europe, moved into an apartment with Robbie, and took some time to settle into something new. But then 2018 came along, and wow what a year of change. My job on the other side of the side took on a life of its own. I was traveling every weekend and working in a media office and auditioning and to be honest, 2018 got the best of me.<br />
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Figuring out who I am off of the stage was not easy and I'm still not completely finished with that journey yet. I'm also not done with being on stage, please don't misunderstand that, but I needed some time away to reignite a lot of passions - my love of style being one of them.<br />
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Now here we are. New year, new blog style, new ideas, newly reignited passion. If you're new here, welcome! I am so beyond happy that you've stopped by and I hope you come back. If you're returning after the nearly 15 months of my time away, <i>thank you.</i> I always liked writing here and it's a nice feeling knowing that, in some capacity, you're enjoying what I've got to offer you.<br />
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Love you lots. Happy to be back. ♥<br />
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-74469852634332807962017-09-02T11:48:00.000-07:002019-01-25T00:35:12.792-08:00Pink Pleats<div style="-en-clipboard: true; text-align: center;">
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Spending the summer is Europe has been like living in a dream. The places are beautiful, the food is amazing, the there’s tons of pretty buildings to serve as great photo backdrops. I’ve also been able to shop in some new stores we don’t have back in the States, one of my favorites being Pull & Bear. Oh man this store. I am lucky that they don’t have locations in the US because I would be broke. I picked up some summer pieces that were starting to go on sale, and one of my favorites was this pink pleated skirt. It’s so comfortable, but so chic! Definitely something I’m glad I snagged for 4 euros! This skirt is so lightweight so it’s been easy to wear during the scorching summer months. I’m interested to see if I can pull this skirt into the fall and winter as well; I just love the look of bright colors against the snow of the winter time.<br />
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As much as I hate to admit it, I think I’m getting suckered into the flatform trend. While these sneakers aren’t too dramatic in their height, the rhinestone accents make the shoes so eye catching and fun to wear. The simple crochet crop top (which is a recognizable summer favorite of mine at this point) and the slicked back bun really allow the bright pink of the skirt to lead the look and pull your focus. This is definitely one of my favorite looks of this summer!
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Much love –
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xx Val </div>
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com2Corfu, Greece39.6242621 19.92167770000003238.841148600000004 18.630784200000033 40.4073756 21.212571200000031tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-17758429786537003642017-08-31T09:48:00.000-07:002017-08-31T09:48:43.023-07:00Where Have You Been? || Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well hiya. Long time, no see! Oops. I’ve been meaning to get back here, but the time snowballed and then it was over a year later. So let’s catch up.
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I’m currently in the Mediterranean dancing for Norwegian Cruise Lines aboard the Star! The shows we’re doing are so wonderful and the places I’m seeing are incredible. We port in Italy, Greece, Montenegro, and Croatia and sometimes I can’t believe I’m getting paid to travel and perform like this. I’m incredibly lucky to be doing something I love and working with some of the loveliest people I’ve ever met. Living the life of a traveling showgirl is so rewarding but I am so ready to be getting home, back to New York, and onto my next great adventure; moving!
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Robbie and I have found our first place together and we’ll be moving in there come autumn. It’s definitely been challenging to apartment hunt from Europe, but Robbie has been nothing short of amazing about it; scouted out locations online, visited them in person, talked logistics, the whole shebang. And now we’ve got our place!
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I can’t believe this part of my life is over in just a little more than a month, but I cannot wait to start this exciting new chapter!
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Fingers crossed I’m good about updating.
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xx Val </div>
Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-18327075666535445012016-01-27T15:31:00.005-08:002016-01-27T15:31:58.780-08:00Nifty Knits || The Force Awakens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="text-align: start;">I, like everyone else in the galaxy, love </span><i style="text-align: start;">Star Wars.</i><span style="text-align: start;"> There's just something so uplifting and universal about the film franchise. I've loved these films for as long as I can remember, and the new installment followed suit and marched straight into my heart. I really enjoyed </span><i style="text-align: start;">The Force Awakens</i><span style="text-align: start;"> and whilst feeling crafty, I decided to mix my love of knitting and </span><i style="text-align: start;">Star Wars</i><span style="text-align: start;"> together. </span></div>
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For my very first time knitting whilst following a pattern and changing colors, I'm quite proud about how well this turned out. And the best part is that you can make this too! The pattern is courtesy of <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/the-force-awakens-hat" target="_blank">Mrs. Luedeke over on Ravelry</a>, and it's available for free! Loads of people have done this with loads of different colors, but I loved the look of the black, white, and red.<br />
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I feel like there's something special about wearing something you've made yourself. Any fellow knitters out there? Any DIY fiends?<br />
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xoxox</div>
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Val</div>
Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-82681679647342782662015-10-13T19:57:00.001-07:002015-10-13T19:57:30.073-07:00Style Steal || Shop Miss A<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I tend to be a person who has expensive taste. This causes me some problems when I pull my head out of the online window shopping clouds, and check my bank account and my current student loan statements. Needless to say, I'm a big fan of a big bargain.<br />
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As a girl who loves sparkle and shine, I love to accessorize with jewelry. Trendy jewelry is fun and statement jewelry definitely packs a punch, but spending a large amount on pieces I expect will go out of style within the next year or so is not a wise investment. I stumbled on a website that is now a feature in my shopping bookmark; <a href="http://www.shopmissa.com/" target="_blank">Shop Miss A</a>.<br />
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This site has loads of items to choose from; necklaces and earrings, lipsticks and eyeshadows, nail polishes, hair accessories, even purses and false eyelashes. And when you pay the $3.95 flat rate for shipping, everything is $1.00. <i>Seriously</i>. Everything on the site is <i>one dollar.</i> Like oh my gosh.<br />
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I've ordered a handful of things from their site and I'll be very honest, I didn't have very high expectations. But I was so pleasantly surprised. I loved these pieces. The color quality was great, the pieces were packaged with care, and everything arrived in a timely fashion.<br />
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I'd say if you're someone who's into rocking trends without breaking the bank then you should totally check out this site. <a href="http://www.shopmissa.com/" target="_blank">Shop Miss A</a> is a great option for great pieces at great prices.<br />
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Have you got any sites that you'd swear by for a bargain? Let me know down below!<br />
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xoxo</div>
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Val</div>
Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-25068898849590068212015-06-19T15:13:00.002-07:002017-01-20T12:27:29.841-08:00Comfy Crochet<div style="text-align: center;">
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<u>Outfit Details:</u><br />
Crochet Top: <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?br=F21&category=top&productid=2049258764" target="_blank">Forever 21</a> || Sweater: <a href="http://cottonon.com/US/p/cotton-on-women/brigitte-batwing-cardi/2024419005935.html#start=1" target="_blank">Cotton On</a> || Denim Joggers: Cotton On {<a href="http://cottonon.com/US/p/cotton-on-women/the-deluxe-sporty-jean/2024121803102.html#start=1" target="_blank">similar</a>}<br />
Suede Booties: Dolce Vita {<a href="http://www.6pm.com/p/asin/B00LLS5VGI" target="_blank">similar</a>} || Sunglasses & Jewelry: <a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Category.aspx?br=f21&category=acc&pagesize=60&page=1" target="_blank">Forever 21</a><br />
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I am so glad that the weather is finally getting warmer in New York. The sun has been out and the temperatures have been up which means that my summer clothes are finally making a reappearance. Even better than that is the sale price of this past season's winter clothes. I picked up theses jeans from Cotton On on Wednesday for $5.00! They were having a great sale on denim so I snagged a few pairs and couldn't wait to style them.<br />
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As much as I love a sleek skinny jean, I'm really digging the sporty vibe these pants are giving off. Paired with neutral pieces, the joggers really pop and stand out as the statement in this outfit, and the heeled bootie elevates this look from comfy cozy to chic casual.<br />
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This dressed up sporty look is definitely something I'm loving right now and a look that will be carried out through my summer. What are some of your favorite casual pieces to dress up? Is the sporty chic trend one that you're digging?<br />
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Wishing you all well!<br />
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-4557138078570965022015-01-07T05:00:00.000-08:002015-08-24T21:10:00.323-07:00And Since We've No Place to Go...<div>
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Let it snow! Let it snow! Let it snow! Not that I've really done all that much just yet, but January has been lovely so far. To make matters even better (in my opinion since I wasn't headed anywhere today) it snowed all yesterday afternoon. There's something about snow at the start of a new year that I just love. The crisp, cool air and the cold weather feels like a fresh start. There's a sense of erasure in snowfall in January, the idea that you can take this new year do whatever you want with it. This blank canvas is yours to paint with you memories and adventures as well as your mistakes and missteps.<br />
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It's a truly unique feeling, the idea of starting over. It's quite a liberating sensation when you allow yourself to make the most of yourself and the time you've got. I've already posted what my big resolutions are for 2015, and you can read all about them <a href="http://eastcoastpearl.blogspot.com/2015/01/resolutions-for-2015.html" target="_blank">here</a>, but I think it's also important to create little goals or ideas as you go along. Life is crazy and if you can't roll with the punches then you're going to be left in the dust. Please excuse the clichés, but it's true.<br />
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2015 feels like a it's going to be a good year for me and the bit of white that erased 2014 solidified that for me. Starting fresh, starting over, starting something!<br />
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Also! I want to say thank you to my awesome photographer of a sister, pictured above, Nikki! She'll be doing some more photos for me over the coming months and shooting with her is a blast. You can find her here on <a href="https://twitter.com/nikkihoff813" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and over here on <a href="http://instagram.com/nikki_hoff_" target="_blank">Instagram</a>!<br />
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-86199931969233131412015-01-02T09:00:00.000-08:002015-08-24T20:56:42.991-07:00Top Marsala Beauty PicksI have been so excited to write about Pantone's pick for 2015's color of the year, especially since Marsala is so wearable! I loved last year's Wild Orchid, but it wasn't exactly wearable. Marsala just begs to worn in all senses, both beauty and fashion.<br />
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So looking into beauty, I've picked some lip products, eye shadows, and nail polishes that I think are great matches for 2015's biggest color; Marsala.<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.sephora.com/pure-marsala-matte-lip-creme-P393339?skuId=1658749&icid2=sephora_pantone_matte_lip_creme_shop_now_image" target="_blank">Sephora – Pure Marsala Matte Lip Creme</a>; $18.00</li>
<li><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/essie-nail-polish-mauves/3241039?cm_cat=partner&cm_ite=1&cm_pla=10&cm_ven=Linkshare&siteId=J84DHJLQkR4-7KTsmC8zi3B_Z2hwBA.69Q" target="_blank">Nordstrom – Essie's In Stitches</a>; $8.50 <i>currently sold out on the Essie site</i></li>
<li><a href="http://www.target.com/p/revlon-colorburst-matte-balm/-/A-14768626?ref=tgt_adv_XSG10001&AFID=google_pla_df&LNM=14768626&CPNG=Health+Beauty&kpid=14768626&LID=17pgs&ci_src=17588969&ci_sku=14768626&kpid=14768626&gclid=Cj0KEQiAzb-kBRDe49qh9s75m-wBEiQATOxgwcyS7MKmJ7lst6FpZj_3O9CJmfm1HBaomklvT-yGEAgaAgk_8P8HAQ" target="_blank">Target – Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm - Sultry 225</a>; $6.99</li>
<li><a href="http://www.narscosmetics.com/USA/makeup-eyes-eyeshadow/0607845020196.html" target="_blank">NARS – Matte Eyeshadow - New York</a>; $25.00</li>
<li><a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/154/363/Eye-Shadow/index.tmpl" target="_blank">MAC – Sketch Eyeshadow</a>; $16.00</li>
<li><a href="http://www.butterlondon.com/Lacquers/Dark-Nail-Lacquers/Tramp-Stamp.html" target="_blank">Butter London – Tramp Stamp Nail Lacquer</a>; $15.00</li>
<li><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/clinique-almost-lipstick/2808998?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=0&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_1_B&siteId=QFGLnEolOWg-2nXqy0Cm6CF4B3zxC4H0UQ" target="_blank">Nordstrom – Clinique Almost Lipstick - Black Honey</a>; $16.00</li>
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What do you think of Marsala? Think you'll give it a try? Do you have any other Marsala favorites?</div>
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-26649496859445647022014-10-22T11:18:00.000-07:002015-08-24T21:11:11.963-07:00Afternoon Adventures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This semester has been an absolute whirlwind. I'm applying for graduation, finalizing my major and minor, locking in my levels and weight, and just all around getting ready for the real world. Without a doubt, my ass is being kicked by the to do list I've been keeping. What's really been getting me through are my friends and my family. My mom is my number one supporter and, even after I've let her down and pushed her past her limits, she's never given up on me. But sometimes it's hard to lean on someone who lives so far away. It's times like now that I'm glad to have the friends I do.<br />
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One of my very best friends Sarah (you can find her <a href="http://sarahegold.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">here</a>) was looking to get away from Oklahoma City last Sunday and called me for some back up. It ended up being only a couple of hours, but wow I am so beyond glad she called. We'd had an original plan to find a pumpkin patch out of town and grab a couple to make our living areas more seasonable. While things didn't exactly go as planned, the day was wonderful.<br />
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We first headed over to the OU campus in Norman to grab a sweet treat from Hurt's Donut Company. Holy cow. Now only are there amazing donuts like Maple Bacon and Fruity Pebbles, but they make a milkshake to compliment each donut. I got myself a mint chocolate donut and the shake to match. It was heaven. </div>
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After hopping back into the car and getting back on the road, we turned to Siri to take us to a pumpkin patch at a farm about twenty minutes out of Norman. As it turned out, we'd gotten our addresses confused and ended up driving in the complete opposite direction, but wow was it gorgeous. I'd never seen such a beautiful part of Oklahoma.</div>
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We drove for ages just getting lost in the scenery, making a mini road trip out of the day. Despite being lost, we were happy. Sarah and I rolled down the windows, opened the overhead panel, turned up the music and just let the wind flow our hair into our lipstick as we sang along. We never found a pumpkin patch, and ended up picking up some great ones over at the Neighborhood Walmart, but we had a seriously wonderful day.</div>
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Sometimes you just really need to step out of your bubble and free yourself from all of the heaviness weighing on your shoulders and your mind. A little day of zen can sometimes be all that you need to recharge your soul, and having someone you adore so much by your side can turn anything around. </div>
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So take an adventure. Get lost in the world and let yourself enjoy today, because it will be gone before you know it.</div>
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-76390430689642691812014-09-18T11:07:00.000-07:002015-08-24T20:59:34.054-07:00Outfits & Essentials: Made For WalkingI'm not going to lie to you; this trend is close to my heart thanks to Mr. Harry Styles. I've been loving his style for the past year or two (and I'm loving the long hair, by the way). From his YSL obsession and his love for hats and headscarves, boy has a style all his own. Aside from the skinny jeans, his signature piece is definitely a pair of Chelsea Boots.<br />
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I got myself a heeled pair this past Christmas (now unavailable from Forever 21) and I've been absolutely in love ever since. I'm not a big spender, as you know, so here are some of my favorite Chelsea Boots, all available for under $50. (Hint: H&M seems to have the most variety of styles!)<br />
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Info & links under the cut.<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/17999?article=17999-a#article=17999-C" target="_blank">H&M – Chelsea Boots</a>; $34.95</li>
<li><a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/13132?article=13132-C#article=13132-C" target="_blank">H&M – Ankle Boots</a>; $34.95</li>
<li><a href="http://www.forever21.com/Product/Product.aspx?BR=f21&Category=shoes_boots&ProductID=2000066788&VariantID=" target="_blank">Forever 21 – Faux Leather Chelsea Booties</a>; $29.80</li>
<li><a href="http://us.asos.com/New-Look-Wide-Fit/New-Look-Wide-Fit-Capital-Heeled-Chelsea-Boots/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4394475&cid=14225&Rf-800=-1,53&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black&totalstyles=41&gridsize=3" target="_blank">ASOS – New Look Wide Fit Capital Heeled Chelsea Boots</a>; $47.59</li>
<li><a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/31607?article=31607-B#article=31607-A" target="_blank">H&M – Chelsea Boots</a>; $34.95</li>
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Are there any styles (nudge, nudge) of shoe you're dying to wear this fall or winter? Which one of these would you try rocking?</div>
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XOXO</div>
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-71158051466320451902014-06-23T06:00:00.000-07:002015-08-24T20:58:34.212-07:00One Direction: Our Moment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">I've said it once and I'll say it forever; </span><b style="text-align: start;">I love One Direction</b><span style="text-align: start;">. When I first heard that the boys were releasing a fragrance I immediately put it on my Christmas list. My family, being the wonderful people that they are, got me not only the perfume for Christmas, but the whole gift set which includes a body lotion and shower gel. When I went back to school I didn't take the set with me, afraid that it might get jostled or busted up through the traveling, so I have only just been using the set since mid May. And oh boy. </span><i style="text-align: start;">I love this stuff.</i></div>
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Well firstly, the packaging is gorgeous. The gift box has all five of the gorgeous guys on it, so duh I love it. But the inside is super sturdy and I've been keeping everything inside the box even as I've been using it. It's been keeping out the dust and keeping all the products together has reminded me to use them together. <i>(Full disclosure; I haven't used the shower gel yet because I share a shower and don't want anyone else to use it up on me!)</i> </div>
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The <a href="http://onedirection.edenparfums.com/fragrance" target="_blank">website</a> describes the scent to be <i>"...made up of splashes of fresh fruit and seasonal flowers infused with undertones of warm musk."</i> They go on to say, <i>"The pink grapefruit, wild berries and redcurrants, combined with the delicacy of jasmine petals, and frangipani with the dry woody tones of musk and patchouli leave an enticing and playful scent on the skin."</i><br />
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All in all, it smells gorgeous. It's a light scent but it sticks around throughout the day. I'd say it's more of a spring and summer fragrance, but I'm sure I'll be wearing it during autumn and winter as well. The body lotion keeps its scent as well, and keeps my skin feeling soft throughout wearing it. It's definitely more fragrance as opposed to moisturizing, but that doesn't come as much of a surprise.<br />
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If their other fragrance <i>That Moment</i> and the upcoming <i>You & I</i> are as good then you can be sure those perfumes are going to find their way onto my shelf!</div>
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Any perfumes or colognes you've been lovely as of late? Let me know down below!</div>
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<i><br /></i>Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-47839547848058807402014-06-22T12:18:00.002-07:002015-08-24T20:58:54.501-07:00Like To Be Bad<div style="text-align: justify;">
Okay, so this might be crazy but I used to <i>hate</i> wearing nail polish. I used to be constantly aware of it on my fingers and I thought I could feel the added weight on my hands; like I said, crazy. Well, I when I went off to college I decided that I wanted to love it and after painting my nails time and time again I have reached the point where I hate having unpainted nails.</div>
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Anyway, a couple of weeks ago my aunt and I went for pedicures and she'd picked up a couple of Essie polishes and gave me this one; <b>#798 Like To Be Bad</b>.</div>
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This color is a little sheer and I've been using three to four coats to achieve the really opaque look, but it is seriously the most lovely baby pink color. In the bottle it appears to be very shimmery but once applied the pink glitz really blends out. I would consider this to be a a pretty flat and neutral color, but I am truly in love. I can already tell that this is going to be a repurchase. No chipping for days and pretty for every season. Neutral, but still adds a subtle pop of color! Totally my color for summer.</div>
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What are some of your favorite polishes? Any that you've been absolutely loving for summer? Let me know!</div>
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Happy Sunday and best wishes for the week ahead!</div>
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-23145285629903259082014-06-17T18:20:00.000-07:002015-08-24T20:58:07.493-07:00Homemade French Macarons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For months now I've been dying to try my hands at some homemade French Macaron cookies. Some of my family came out to spend the day for Father's Day and my aunt suggested that we give it a shot. After heading to our local grocery store to pick up some ingredients we got to work in the kitchen.<br />
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I've been watching Byron Talbott's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCD5WWnRed32y3xGwmrDhUiQ" target="_blank">YouTube videos</a> for a while and have been really wanting to try one of his recipes, so after clicking around on <a href="http://www.byrontalbott.com/" target="_blank">his website</a> for a little bit I decided to base my cookies off of Byron's <a href="http://byrontalbott.com/project-4/oaq1c1k394m1ghciuhzuxj15alqrko" target="_blank">Salted Caramel Macaron recipe</a>. I even went ahead and followed his instructions for making homemade caramel filling from a can of sweetened condensed milk, and guess what! It totally worked! We also used some seedless jams and peanut butter to fill the other cookies too!<br />
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Following his instructions, this really wasn't too tough to do! There is quite a bit of patience required when making these cookies; having to whip the egg whites into a meringue, letting the batter dry for 15 minutes prior to baking, cooking in the oven for at least 10 (depending on your oven), and the thirty minutes of cooling time before you can fill them but <i>wow </i>these cookies were so worth it!<br />
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I'm thinking some red, white, and blue ones for the Fourth of July!<br />
Hope everyone had a nice Father's Day!<br />
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-7211592870351011712014-05-25T22:46:00.001-07:002015-08-24T20:57:58.020-07:00Me Time on Madison Avenue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week I took a trip into Manhattan to see some of my friends in a musical theater showcase my school was sponsoring over at the Ailey School. It wasn't until to 2:00 but I headed in to the city early, getting in at about 10:30. I met my aunt for an early lunch and a quick trip to MAC to pick up some eyeshadow and when she had to leave for an appointment I headed towards Madison Avenue. Madison Avenue might be my favorite part of the city and wow, walking up and down it by myself was an absolute treat.</div>
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I'd been dying to try some Ladurée French Macarons for ages, and had totally forgotten that there was a shop on Madison Ave. I was so beyond excited when I spotted it across the street and immediately dashed over. I couldn't decide if I wanted a creamy one or a fruity one, so I caved and got one of each; pistachio and raspberry. I can't even tell you which I thought was better. They were both incredible. If I could only enjoy one treat for the rest of my life Ladurée French Macarons are it.</div>
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After the performance, I had some a few hours to kill before I was to meet up with my aunt again for dinner. I'd never been to the Madison Avenue Lilly Pulitzer, despite being a New Yorker, so I took a trip up towards 79th. Wow it was so beautiful inside. I was looking to pick up some of the Alpha Phi printed gifts but they were out, which was a bummer but I did pick up a new coozie <i>(which I'm thinking of possibly using for a giveaway). </i>The staff were just beyond sweet and really made my experience in the store a great one. I'm not really in a place right now where I can splurge on a big Lilly purchase and not once did I ever feel like they were pressuring me into either buying something or leaving. I would absolutely go back again!</div>
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Afterwards I headed over to Central Park which is so beautiful in the spring time. Having been in Oklahoma for the past couple of months has meant that I haven't really been around for New York's transition from winter into spring and summer but the park was looking beyond gorgeous. I walked around for a bit and then sat down to organize my thoughts and my planner, just enjoying the beautiful weather. </div>
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I've never been someone who's had a hard time with alone time, but I never expected to enjoy my time in Manhattan as I did. I generally have my sister or a guy with me when I'm having a little daytime adventure, but having no one to entertain but myself was extremely nice. Everyone should try to take a day for themselves at some point. I could walk as quickly as I wanted, take photos of whatever, stop in any shops I wanted to browse, try clothes on I had no intentions of buying so I could see them on myself; it was just an all around great day.</div>
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Take vacations with yourself, even if they only last a couple of hours. You're better company than you expect you are.</div>
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-56576748719142154762014-04-30T08:21:00.000-07:002015-08-24T20:57:32.980-07:00Outfits & Essentials: Red Hot MamaAs a dancer, I've been wearing red lipstick since before I can remember. As I've gotten older, I've brought the red lip into my every day life and wow it's truly a such a powerful statement. It's not news to anyone that the red lip is popular as it's a classic and while there are a hundred of lipsticks out there, I'm sharing a few of my favorites with you that won't strain your wallet.<br />
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<li><a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4040047#" target="_blank">REVLON Color Burst Lip Butter in Candy Apple</a> - $7.99</li>
<li><a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/168/310/Products/Lips/Lipstick/Lipstick/index.tmpl" target="_blank">MAC Lipstick in Russian Red</a> - $16.00</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod2940211#" target="_blank">REVLON Super Lustrous Lipcolor in Fire & Ice</a> - $6.99</li>
<li><a href="http://www.sephora.com/rouge-cream-lipstick-P249814?skuId=1198944" target="_blank">Sephora Collection Rouge Cream Lipstick in The Red 04</a> - $12.50</li>
<li><a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?skuId=2241204&productId=xlsImpprod4090119&navAction=push&navCount=1&categoryId=cat80058#" target="_blank">Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick - Kate Moss Collection in 011</a> - $5.49</li>
<li><a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1605/15520/Makeup/Lipsticks/Chubby-Stick-Moisturizing-Lip-Colour-Balm/index.tmpl" target="_blank">CLINIQUE Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Balm in Two Ton Tomato</a> - $17.00</li>
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I'm a huge fan of all of these formulas and shades and I know if you give them a try you will fall in love with these gorgeous sticks too. Have you tried any of these products? What are some of your favorite reds? Let me know!</div>
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Hope everyone is having a great week! </div>
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Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-19542586827366682992014-04-21T07:04:00.002-07:002015-08-24T20:59:54.853-07:00Easter Away from HomeI hope everyone had a great Easter yesterday, and a great weekend if you aren't of the celebrating persuasion. It turned out to be a really nice day, here in Oklahoma City, and the rain held off until this morning which I appreciated.<br />
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While we did have a half day of classes for Good Friday (I attend a Methodist university so we get some Christian holidays off) I wasn't able to go home for the weekend. Being from New York, it's hard to get home; I'm usually only home for the summer and Christmas. Luckily for me, a lot of my friends are in the same boat as so many of us performance majors are from all over. I was able to spend the afternoon with some of my dearest friends and my sorority sisters and have a lovely brunch. We did an Easter basket exchange, which was so cute, and had mimosas and cooked and it just really turned out to be a lovely day.<br />
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My freshman year it really freaked me out to be away from my family during holidays. I haven't been home for Thanksgiving or Easter in four years and it used to be a real bummer. Looking back, it's been kind of nice. I've gotten to experience the Thanksgiving traditions of three different families and create new traditions for Easter with friends. A lot of my favorite memories have been made spending time with my friends when I couldn't be home with my family and while freshman Val would have never believed me, I wouldn't trade these times for anything in the world.<br />
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Anyway, I hope you're starting off your weeks with full hearts the way I am. Happy Monday!<br />
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-11877160527485569842014-03-24T00:49:00.000-07:002015-08-24T21:00:57.097-07:00Spring Break 2014: Turner Falls<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This semester for spring break my family and I decided it'd be best for me to stay here in Oklahoma. Being from New York, it's expensive to catch a flight home for such a short amount of time. Originally, not much was planned for my week in OKC but I was so happy and so surprised that one of my great friends and sorority sisters was coming into town. My twin (Alpha Phi twin, not blood twin) was staying in town as well, along with some of my other close friends, and the week turned out to be much more than I could have hoped for.</div>
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On Thursday we headed towards Turner Falls, which is about an hour and half drive from campus, and made a mini vacation day. </div>
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Now, being from suburban New York, I've always considered myself to be more of a city girl but being out at the falls really had me feeling adventurous. We went on a hike up the side of the falls and once all the way at the top, we climbed down into the water. Despite being the slowest and most afraid one out of the bunch, I think I held my own. I'm afraid of heights and I stood at the top of a cliff and looked down and out into the water; <i>I am so proud of myself.</i></div>
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After heading downstream to peer out over the falls, making our way back upstream to wear we'd left our shoes, climbing back up the cliff side towards the pathway, and making our way into a small cave, we headed back down towards the pool level and laid out on the makeshift beach for a while. The day was so wonderful and so unexpected. If you had asked me if I'd be hiking around Oklahoma cliffs and streams during my spare time, I would have thought you were insane.</div>
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What I'm saying is I am so thankful for my friends and the experiences I've been able to have with them whilst here in Oklahoma. Most of my closest friends are graduating in May and I'm not sure what it's going to be like during my last semester without them. There are six-ish weeks until most of my class graduates and it's the strangest thing just knowing I'll be back for a few more months whilst they won't be. </div>
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Be adventurous guys. Hang out with your friends. Make the most of all of the time you have together, whether it be climbing cliffs or grabbing drinks and having IHOP at three thirty in the morning (it happens, stop judging me). Just enjoy each other.</div>
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-88951980716194115522013-12-17T17:14:00.001-08:002015-08-24T21:02:46.588-07:00Outfits & Essentials: Staying In at Home for the Holidays<br />
I've been home now for a few days and my look has remained pretty consistent. As it's getting colder and colder and I have nowhere to go, I've been rocking these winter essentials.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">Sweatshirt: </span><a href="http://fraternitycollection.com/ladies-sweatshirts/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Fraternity Collection</a><span style="text-align: center;"> - $78.00</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Sweatpants: </span><a href="http://www.victoriassecret.com/pink/shop-apparel/bling-signature-pant-pink?ProductID=130657&CatalogueType=OLS" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Victoria's Secret</a><span style="text-align: center;"> - $69.50</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Hair Ties: </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheGivingGirl" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The Giving Girl</a><span style="text-align: center;"> on Etsy - Starting at $3.90</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Socks: </span><a href="http://www.aeropostale.com/product/index.jsp?productId=23394726" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Aeropostale</a><span style="text-align: center;"> - On sale at $4.00</span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Blanket: </span><a href="http://www.target.com/p/circo-valboa-big-dottie-blanket/-/A-14288196#prodSlot=medium_1_49&term=blanket" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Target</a><span style="text-align: center;"> - $16.99</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">What are some of your favorite winter essentials when staying in? Let me know in a comment down below! Talk to you soon.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-52020936089771451462013-12-17T13:13:00.001-08:002015-08-24T21:02:54.741-07:00Finally Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Wow. Another semester finished and I'm finally home again! As much as I love being away at school in Oklahoma it is really so nice to come back home to spend Christmas in New York with my family. Being so far away, I don't fly home very often. Actually, for the fall semesters I don't come home at all. I've been in Oklahoma since August! I love school and my friends and my sorority sisters, but honestly nothing compares to sleeping in my own bed in my mom's house with my brother and sister down the hall.<br />
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Now I'm someone who celebrates Christmas, but the whole holiday season is easily one of my favorite times of year. With school on hold it's a nice time to de-stress and find some peace and relaxation. I had a really strenuous semester and one of my professors told me to go home and find my zen. And boy of boy has it been helping. Laying on the couch and sleeping late might be considered a little bit lazy, but I'm totally okay with that for a few more days. Let me know below how you spend your holidays and how you find you zen!<br />
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Oh! Also, before I forget; As some of you may know I've been wanting to start a vlog for ages. Well, I think I'm finally going to start once I get back to campus after the holidays. I'll be drafting up some video ideas but if you have any videos you'd really love to see please let me know in a comment down below!<br />
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More posts to come this month and lots more in the new year!<br />
And Home for the Holidays is going to be my while I'm at home series. Keeps everything neat.<br />
Love you guys! And have a great holiday season!<br />
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-43137214683038495922013-11-04T02:14:00.000-08:002015-08-24T21:02:31.698-07:00Quick Update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy November my lovely Pearls!<br />
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I know, again, I've been away and not posting like I said I would be. But I'm going to be honest with you, senior year is kicking my ass. It's been really tough; mentally, physically, and socially. Just non-stop, being pulled in all directions. I promise to update you soon.<br />
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Also! Be on the look out for a page revamp. I'm looking to change things up for fall. I think a little makeover might get my juices flowing and increase the amount of posts that pop up here.<br />
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Anyways, if you've been checking in, I really appreciate it.<br />
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Love you lots!<br />
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P.S. - New signature coming soon too!Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6667292513213352656.post-16505121504586097532013-01-07T18:08:00.000-08:002015-08-24T21:01:29.709-07:00Hello & Welcome!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Valerie Hoffmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11204308054832894003noreply@blogger.com2