Accessorizing Life With: Crossfit Belltown's Kendra

happy morning // crossfit class + green juice

It was a bright and early morning today with a 6 am class and one of my favorite green juices to start the day. Today's WOD was rough - deadlifts, front squats and squat snatches have my legs feeling like jelly and my arms sore... but totally worth it, right?

One of the reasons why I continue to push myself at Crossfit (even when my legs are about to give out) are the amazing coaches at my box. One in particular is Kendra. A fellow Lululemon obsessed, RxBar junkie - she inspires me to be a better crossfitter, and I can push through the hardest WODs with her coaching and cheering.

As such, I thought it'd be more than appropriate to feature Kendra of Crossfit Belltown as part of my "Accessorizing Life With" series, because I've learned over the past few months that Crossfit has become more than just a workout for me. It's one of my vital accessories for a happy, healthy life.

Hope you all enjoy meeting, Kendra!

Who inspired you to try Crossfit?
Chris Spealler. I met him at the same rec center I worked at in Utah. He was the only athlete to go to the Crossfit Games 6 years in a row. Also, the first movement that really got me going was the Kipping Pull-up. It's so incredible what your body can do when you push and challenge it.

Why Crossfit?
I've had friends who've done Barre, and I used to be a former spin instructor. Those are all great workouts, but I've felt the strongest and most confident with Crossfit. Crossfit movements are more practical and applicable to every day life. You learn to lift things properly - whether that be a box or a baby.

What are your favorite gym outfit accessories?
Leg warmers + Lululemon sport bras.

Favorite Crossfit Movement: Clean + Jerk

Favorite WOD: Mary (push-ups + pistols + pull-ups)

Top Three Songs for a Good Workout:
Dark Horse by Katy Perry // I Don't Dance by DMX // Talk that Talk by Rihanna

What is your morning routine? (What are the must-dos for a successful day?)
Coffee - lots of it. Eggs and almond butter. And of course, a positive attitude.

image via

Over the time that you've been Crossfitting - what's the most rewarding experience you've had?
I've been doing Crossfit for about 2 years, and the most rewarding experience is that moment when you meet your personal goals. It's even more amazing when you exceed those goals farther than you thought possible.

image via

Crossfit in Three Words: Fun. Rewarding. Challenging.

Thanks Kendra for being a part of  the"Accessorizing Life With" series!

xoxo

Accessorizing Life With: Crushing on Clothes

For this edition of "Accessorizing Life With", I'm beyond thrilled to feature a great friend and one of Seattle's most stylish fashionistas - Alyson of Crushing on Clothes!

Alyson and I had always chatted in the Twitterverse about favorite arm candy ensembles and nail parties... until early last year, we finally met IRL! She is an absolute gem - hilarious, witty, down to earth and full of life - she is a person I can count on, and I'm more than lucky to call her a friend.

Her sense of style is flawless. Alyson definitely has an eye for finding ways to make the latest trends more budget-friendly, as well as creating amazing outfits with unique pairings. Hope you all enjoy getting to know Alyson!

Who/What Inspired You to Blog?

I first created my blog post-college when working at a salon. I was obsessed with beauty products and wanted to share my knowledge without having to put myself on video. I wanted to talk about the products I'd tried, and give a "real girl" perspective on them. I got great feedback, and I had friends start asking me about fashion advice. I hope to inspire people through my outfits that they can dress on a budget and still look and feel like a million bucks. I also hope that I inspire people to take risks and have fun with clothing!

What is your favorite accessory?

Lately, I cannot seem to get enough of statement necklaces, and my current favorite one is from Baublebar. Since it's pave and gold, it goes with everything from printed dresses to a white tee.

Over the time that you've spent blogging, what has been your most rewarding experience?

The most rewarding thing about fashion blogging has been the community. I've met so many amazing, empowering women from around the world that I would have never had a chance to meet otherwise. Also, receiving emails and comments from my readers telling me that I've inspired them in some way is extremely touching and rewarding. 

Who is your style icon and why?

For as long as I can remember, I have been obsessed with Nicole Richie. She is so effortlessly cool and casual, but always looks trendy and fashionable. I was inspired by her to purchase my first Balenciaga in 2005, and still adore her baggy, boho style.

Thank you, Alyson for being a part of my series! 

xoxo

Accessorizing Life With: Justina Blakeney

For my next "Accessorizing Life with" feature, I had an incredible opportunity to interview Justina Blakeney, an amazing stylist and designer with awesome boho-chic swag. I fell in love with Justina's blog about two years ago when I first stumbled upon it for tips and tricks on home decor. With my recent move, I definitely went to her blog for inspiration and creativity - her flair for bold colors and mixing prints is absolutely amazing. 

What I love most about Justina's content is her curation of visually compelling images on Pinterest. There's no way to describe it but simply awe-inspiring and b-e-a-utiful. Whether you're re-decorating your home or figuring out what new frames to add to your wall gallery - Justina's blog is a perfect guide for the talented and newbies alike.

Hope you all enjoy getting to know her! 

xoxo

1. Who/what inspires you?
My daughter inspires me, as do plants!

2. What is your favorite home accessory? 
Right now, my favorite home accessory is this jungalow hanging planter designed by me and crafted here in LA by MFEO.

Justina's Jungalow Hanging Planter

3. In three words, describe your happy home.
Colorful, soulful and wild.

A Snippet of Justina's Jungalow // Loving all the bright colors and prints!

4. Over the time that you've spent blogging and designing, what has been your most rewarding experience?
I think that the online courses that I'm teaching in styling are extremely rewarding. For $19, anyone can sign up for the class and I get to witness how much better people's homes look after completing the course. I love hearing from my students, and so many of them have explained how they look at their home in such a new light since taking the classes, and I love that the courses are an accessible and affordable way for people to increase their quality of life through home decor and styling.

5. What advice would you give to those who are redecorating and accessorizing their happy home?
Don't think of decorating as a story with a beginning, a middle and an end. Decorating is a fluid process. your home should change as you grow as you do -- it's OK for your home to never be 'finished.' Enjoy the journey!

Thank you, Justina for your time and for being a part of the "Accesorizing Life With" series. 

Truly appreciate it! 

Accessorizing Life With: Living in Color Print

Today, I'm excited to share with you my interview with Kristin of Living in Color Print as part of my "Accessorizing Life With" series. From the sunny beaches and palm trees of Southern Florida, Kristin exhibits Southern and preppy charm with bright colorful prints and a twist of of modern flair in all of her style outfits. I'm obsessed with her bold and daring color-combos! She recently pulled together a round up of her favorite 2013 looks, which I must say.. it is mighty impressive with the array of outfits - featuring mixed prints, neon brights, maxis, peplum and flannel. All I gotta say is that she's a must-follow on your blogroll! 

Without much further ado, meet Kristin: 

1. Who/what inspired you to blog?

I originally started Living In Color Print because I wanted to share my own experiences in the fashion industry with others and with the hopes to inspire a few along the way. 

2. What is your favorite accessory? 

Favorite accessory would hands down be a good pair of high heels. There's nothing more exciting then opening a new shoe box and slipping those babies over your toes for the first time.  

3. Over the time that you've spent on Living in Color Print, what's the most rewarding experience?

I have been so blessed to be exposed to so many wonderful people and experiences over the past two years, it's hard to pin-point one specific time. The first time I attended Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC as a blogger [rather than working backstage] was certainly mind blowing, however I would honestly have to say the most rewarding part of blogging is seeing my hard work pay off. Whether it's affirmation from a reader commenting they really love something I've posted or a killer new opportunity to work with a new brand, it's always fulfilling. 

Thanks again to Kristin for her time and for being a part of my series!

xoxo

Accessorizing Life With: Penny Pincher Fashion

For this edition of "Accessoring Life With," I'm honored to interview Kimberly of Penny Pincher Fashion! I first "met" Kimberly via Twitter when we were chatting about leather leggings and leopard prints last year... instantly, I knew she was going to be at the top of my blog-roll for fashion inspiration. We've worked together on a client collaboration which was fun, and now, she is definitely whom I'd call a fellow fashion-friend!

Don't know how to style layered jewelry or glam up a casual outfit? Be sure to check out Penny Pincher Fashion for simple how-tos and at affordable prices.

Hope you enjoy getting to know Kimberly!

Who/what inspired you to blog?

My sisters and girlfriends kept coming to me asking fashion and beauty advice and finally my sister-in-law said, "You know it would be a lot easier for us if you just started a blog and shared all this information so we didn't have to keep bugging you."  It began as a hobby and; a creative outlet for me while my kids were in school. I honestly never dreamed it would become a full-time job/business!

                                           

What is your favorite accessory?

I use statement necklaces to add polish to basic pieces - I love layering jewelry in different ways...the combinations are endless.

Over the time that you've spent on Penny Pincher Fashion, what's the most rewarding experience?

I started my blog shortly after we moved to NY from NC.  I hadn't established close friendships yet and meeting other ladies through my blog really helped me feel less lonely during that transition time. The most rewarding part of blogging, by far, is the interactions I get to have with other women.  I have made some of the best friends in the blogging community that I know I will have for the rest of my life.

Much thanks and love goes to Kimberly of Penny Pincher Fashion for her time!

xoxo

Accessorizing Life With: The Boston Fashionista

For this edition of "Accessorizing Life With," I have the honor of introducing you to a great East Coaster - Kristen of The Boston Fashionista! I've been following her blog for about two years now, and I must say... this lady's style is just absolutely fabulous. She's definitely my go-to gal for dressing warm and fashionable. Think cute and fun printed scarves, smart layering and cozy knit accessories.

What has she been up to lately? Currently, she's jet-setting in Paris so be sure to follow her Parisian adventures for totally chic outfits and European fun!

Hope you all enjoy getting to know Kristen! 

Who/What Inspired You To Blog? 

I work in academic science, and while I adore my job, I wanted an opportunity to reach out and interact with people interested in New England based fashion and design. I also wanted to explore the idea of being stylish in New England. In a region of cobblestones streets and volatile weather, unique fashion challenges are presented.

What is your favorite accessory? 

My Theory cashmere scarf (shown below). It's the perfect layering piece and so cozy!

Similar here: 

Over the time that you've spent on Boston Fashionista, what has been your most rewarding experience?
Oh that's easy. I have met so many incredible people through the blog - designers, entrepreneurs, shop owners, PR executives, readers and other bloggers and editors, many of whom have become very close friends. It's funny, people thinking of blogging as a very solitary endeavor, but it really is a wonderful way to meet new people.

Much thanks goes to Kristen for her time and for 

participating in my "Accessorizing Life With" series! 

xoxo

Accessorizing Life With: Andrea from Sole Society

This week, I'm beyond honored to feature Andrea, CEO of Sole Society as part of my "accessorizing life with" series. 

For those of you who aren't familiar with the brand - Sole Society features the latest and cutest shoes and accessories online and at select retailers such as Nordstrom. In collaboration with Julianne Hough, their bringing runway-inspired looks to shoppers but at amazing, affordable prices! One of my all-time favorite pair of shoes from Sole Society are these lovely nude, studded pumps - last seen here. Basically... I'm justifying your next shoe purchase :) 

As the CEO for Sole Society, Andrea Wasserman brings a fabulous sense of style, creative wit and the passion and energy required to excel in the industry. It is my absolute pleasure to feature her today, and I hope you enjoy!

Who/what inspires you?
Traveling inspires me. From the emerging retail concepts in Seoul to the entrepreneurs in Cambodia to the markets in Lisbon, I've always come back with ideas and a renewed sense of energy.

What is your favorite accessory? 
These days, I'm building out my collection of Sole Society accessories. My personal favorites so far are the Natalya handbag in green and a mixed-print infinity scarf.

How long have you been working in the fashion industry, and what has been your most rewarding experience so far?
I've been working in and around retail for most of the time since I graduated from college in 2000 (plus some summer stints in the mall before that). It's always rewarding to work with teams to figure out how to grow in new ways -- [either] a product or service offers the customer wants, a business model the company hasn't tried before, [or] a brand that can be seen in a new light.

Much thanks to Andrea for sharing her time and more on The Accessory!

xoxo

Accessorizing Life With: The Average Girl's Guide

Today kicks off my "Accessorizing Life With" mini-series which highlights the many neat, inspirational bloggers and women I've met along my blogging journey. This morning, I'm thrilled to feature one of my favorite bloggers and fellow Baublebar fan - Alyson from The Average Girl's Guide. 

TAGG, for short, features everything from stylish outfits, easy and fun DIY projects to yummy recipes! She's my weekly must-read and source for style inspiration. Being both a mom and owner of her own PR company, she's definitely who I would call a busy bee! I'm truly amazed by her fierce style, dedication to TAGG and overall journey as a lifestyle blogger. 

Recently, I had the opportunity to interview Alyson on life, blogging and of course, her favorite accessory. So excited to feature her for today's post, and if you haven't read her stuff yet, I hope you'll become a fan soon! 

Who/what inspired you to blog?

I love to be in the know, be it with style, the latest food finds, etc., so I always had an interest in sharing my intel on some platform. I initially intended to share more movie and film reviews 'from the average girl's opinion' compared to a critic, but that was before I had a baby, started a PR company and started the blog! Ha. A blog was the easiest platform to get started... and it's just evolved from there! 

What is your favorite accessory? (If you have a photo of you and it, feel free to include!)

Can it be a three-part answer? Hope so! I'm sentimental about my wedding ring, and a really tiny "s" necklace (for my daughter, Sarah), that I never take off, even to shower. At the same time, I'm so all about bling and big statement necklaces in 2013, as evidenced by my recent posts!  They're pretty fun to wear, right? 

Over the time that you've spent on The Average Girl's Guide, what has been your most rewarding experience?

Connecting with other women like you! It's the truth. I've connected so profoundly with other bloggers who I would have never otherwise met, and also with readers who who responded to something I wrote, be it trying a new style or adding a big necklace, or on a more personal topic, like challenges conceiving or loneliness. It's discussing the real issues that are rarely shared that have impacted me the most.

Much thanks goes to Alyson for sharing her time and more on The Accessory! 

xoxo