Draper James Skirt (Coming soon, but #omg — this one?!), Shirt (It’s called the “Lucy Embellished Lace Button Down Shirt”) and Bag c/o / Cole Haan Sandals c/o Nordstrom Rack / J.Crew Bracelet (And have I mentioned how much I love this one?!) / Moon and Lola Earrings (On sale!) c/o Tuckernuck / Helen Ficalora Necklace c/o
Shopbop’s Friends & Family Sale is on! Shop my faves:
Today, I’m posting photos from my last shoot with Draper James in New York — partly because it’s still skirt weather here in Chicago, partly because I’m crazily in love with Reese Witherspoon’s new clothing line, partly because I’m a little homesick right now, partly because these photos remind me of the summer, and partly because one of my very best friends from New York (Mandi) just booked a flight to come visit me in early November.
SO MANY PARTLYS.
But seriously: Happy day. :)
I have to admit that the last month has been a tough one for me. This time of year is always a challenge, as I’ve never dealt well with the shorter days and fewer hours of sunlight. There are a few things that help: sitting in front of a giant light box; wearing a light visor (as embarrassing as it sounds); taking certain vitamins, supplements, and/or medications; and making sure to get outside as often as possible. But it’s always a struggle.
Half the time I’m all like, “Yay! Pumpkins and plaid and boots and coffee and blanket scarves!” Yet the other half, I’m all like, “Boo to this.”
So much negativity! So many tears! And so often overwhelmed!
And truly: that’s not who I am. Deep down, I’m a positive person. A happy person. Someone who smiles more often than she frowns.
I actually think I’ve turned a corner, but can we talk about how amazing my girlfriends have been? Because more often than not, I want hide out in my house (which only makes things worse) or ignore phone calls and text messages and emails and invites. But they–time and time again–have proven to be incredible friends and people. They’re understanding and compassionate (even if they don’t really understand “SAD”), and they don’t hold it against me when I fall off the face of the earth.
(Thanks, guys.)
Dinner dates on random Wednesday nights; flights out to Chicago to visit. I’m a lucky girl. And a grateful girl.
So today, do something for me: reach out to a girlfriend who lifts your spirits when you’re feeling blue, and thank her.
And to my girlfriends across the country: I love you. :)
First of all, this Draper James thing you’ve got going on is beyond fabulous. Her stuff is so cute! That J.Crew bracelet is also super dreamy.
Secondly, I totally get you on the season thing. I don’t have seasonal depression as much (don’t get me wrong, January in Michigan is the worst), but I have noticed over time that I have issues with my panic attacks when the seasons change, especially June-October. It’s so strange and uncomfortable. Aren’t our bodies so strange? Here if you ever need to chat about the seasonal blues. I find it helps :)
Alyssa,
Thank you so much for this very thoughtful message. :) I completely agree — Our bodies are SO strange. How exactly do they know when the weather changes?!
Really appreciate your kind words. And thank you — might have to take you up on that.
xoxo!!!
Love Reese Witherspoon and her new line! I grew up in the South and love her southern charm which comes through her clothing line. I also have “SAD”, I see a great therapist and take my meds everyday but even so, it is weird when the days get shorter, it affects everything. I try and stay busy, the mind is so powerful it can play some evil tricks on you so I will get up and do 5 loads of laundry, clean my house top to bottom (which makes the hubby happy) but it keeps my mind busy, it is so easy to let anxiety overtake your thoughts. There is a great sign in my therapist office that I try and adhere to only a daily basis ‘Be kind to those you meet because you never know what battles they are dealing with’….
Really nice to hear from someone else who struggles with SAD. Thank you for being so honest and for dropping this note! I truly appreciate it.
I know that staying busy is THE best solution for me — yet it’s so hard to bring myself to actually participate in activities.
Maybe I should try housecleaning. Keeps the mind busy, yet it’s an easy task. :)
Also — I have to tell you that when I was a teacher, I had that quote up on my wall. (For seven years.) Love it so much. :)
You look amazing! & I also love how honest you are and open with your readers. It’s great to read a blog that talks about ups & downs and not just ups! You are amazing & keep you the great work.
xx. the Coastal Confidence
http://the-coastalconfidence.com/
Thank you so much, Aubrey! Also — you’re killing it on the blog front. Keep doing what you’re doing — your site is beautiful!
It’s so hard in a city like Chicago (or New York) where you feel trapped inside for a good part of the year. I’m really hoping this year isn’t as brutally cold. I’m going to still try to bundle up and take some walks in the city. Especially during new snows – or a sunny but cold day. I’ve also found that taking a break during the light hours of the day and sitting near the window with a blanket and a book, even for just 20 minutes, helps me. Some sun on my face, but still warm and cozy :)
You know — this is a REALLY good idea. Sitting by the window for an hour per day Think I’m going to have to position my favorite chair by the front of the house and hold myself to an hour per day!
Thank you!!
1. I adore this outfit.
2. I adore you.
3. When it becomes too much, book a flight to San Diego for a weekend to visit me! It’s warm and sunny 90% of the year. Pizza on the beach and giant dog snuggles are included.
Michelle,
YES.
You are so kind. And how do I think we’d be BFF immediately?!
so thankful to have you in my life kelly! I’ve been feeling the same for months and I think I’m turning the corner, but OMG. dinner last night was amazing and needs to happen ALL THE TIME!
Thank you, Blair! You’re truly one of my best friends and I’m so grateful for you. :)
GIRLS NIGHT EVERY WEEK
xoxo Wuv you
So so so envious of your growing Draper James collection! I am dyingggggg for their lace dress like not even funny! Second of all, I honestly don’t believe that seasonal depression has anything to do with being positive and happy! You, Kelly, ARE a happy and positive person (I mean everyone has down days, but you know what I mean). And if you struggle with SAD, that is something that’s kind of outside of you and dealing with that kind of depression (or any depression) doesn’t mean that you are a miserable person. Ya know? Love you girl!
http://asequinloveaffair.com
Hi Shira!! :)
You are the sweetest. I wish we still lived close. :(
I know — you’re definitely right. It doesn’t. But somehow, my mind intertwines the two.
But I can’t thank you enough for your uplifting words. You are the best!!
Nov get-together in the city? XOXO
Sending you hugs and lots of love.
Thank you Beck!!!!!
Thank you Kelly for your honesty. you are a worthy good person. Sharing with us your day with its up and down is so wonderfull. Kiss you
Thank you, Miranda!
I totally get the same way – I don’t do well with less sunlight, but I also think I was feeling overwhelmed because mercury was in retrograde (no really, that’s a thing)!! Luckily we have each other to drag out of the house for fun nights like Wednesday! And to go DANCING :) xoxoxo
XOXO, Lauren!! YES TO DANCING! Also — thank you for being the best. You’re always the highlight of my week!
Love this so much! It’s way too easy to take friends for granted and I understand the cold weather blues!
P.S. Obsessed with the Draper James website – need to visit the store in Nashville ASAP!