August 2015 – Responsibly Irresponsible

The Yin to my Yang

August 28, 2015August 31, 2015 Rachel GodfreyLeave a comment

Life is better with friends, I think everyone can agree on that. Luckily I have a friend like Mackenzie in my life and I don’t think I could survive without her. Having knowing her since 9th grade, we have our fair share of memories between us… even if we don’t remember them all. She never fails to make my bad days better and keep my ridiculousness in check. We have a tendency to be more opposite than alike, but I believe that is what makes our friendship so special… and she is way cooler than I could ever be…

When it comes to style, it is safe to say that we are on pretty opposite ends. I love wearing light colors and patterns, but Mackenzie could be content in only wearing black for the rest of her life. It always makes for a good time when helping each other get ready because I rarely wear black, but black is her color for every occasion.

“For me [Mackenzie], black is more than just something that is easy to wear and easy to match. Black is about being bold yet mysterious, and feeling confident in any situation. It makes me feel hot and sophisticated at the same time.”

“Black is modest and arrogant at the same time. Black is lazy and easy-but mysterious. But above all blacks says this: ‘I don’t bother you- you don’t bother me.” -Yohji Yamamoto

“Not everyone looks good in every color, but everyone looks good in black. It works at any age, because black is the essence of timelessness. Think about Chanel and other major fashion houses. You have always seen black from them.”

While white is timeless as well, it is a different kind of timeless. Invoking thoughts about summer nights filled with laughter and parties and beach music. There is something so understated when wearing white on white. It is a way to make a statement without having to say anything at all.

White on white is all about confidence. I feel like I am breaking all sorts of fashion rules when I pair it together, but that is also what makes it badass. It says, “I don’t care about the rules; I do what I want” which is what style is all about. Be who you are and tell that story with what you wear.

One of the most important things about wearing the same color, for me, is textures! The best way to break up the white is to add texture. The details will make the white pop even more.

I’m obsessed with the eyelet in this Madewell top.

I like adding a little bit of color with a bracelet or necklace.

Mackenzie and I “agree on certain fundamental things… who is cool and who is not… that chicks come before dicks” (quote from Nick McDonell’s Twelve, go read it) and that no matter what you wear, you should feel sexy and confident and walk into the room like you own it.

Thanks for being my best friend.

“Life is never black and white. The closest we ever get to those colors is wearing them.”

Photos by Kate Davis Photography

If you know Mackenzie or me, you know we are two fun-loving people. We have some honest to goodness unbelievable stories (shout-out to that summer and everyone who made it great). She is my go-to person when I need someone to take on the town or to watch a sporting event (read: SEC football). To say that we are a good time is an understatement. To that, here is one of our personal favorites to start a night full of hazy memories…

Fireball.

That’s all you need.

Maybe a Dr. Pepper for a mixer, but really all you need is some good ol’ Fireball.

Mac and I now bond over good music and a passion for oldies. I prefer the folk side of the 60s & 70s, but she is all about the classic rock. We text each other all the time about new old songs that we have recently fallen in love with. I can always expect it to be something good. This song choice is from Mackenzie and is a great choice. The Cadillac Three is a southern rock band out of Nashville that is fantastic. Their music just sounds like the South.

you do you, rach

The Right Time for Elsa Fine

August 24, 2015August 24, 2015 Rachel GodfreyLeave a comment

I have some pretty amazing people in my life that do some pretty amazing things. I am always inspired by people who take initiative to follow their dreams. When you know that you were born to be great, making it happen is one of the most beautiful things a person can do.

This brings me to Jordan Dollard. She is the big sister I never had, one of my truest friends, and a role model beyond words. Jordan followed her dreams and turned them into a reality with her online boutique, Elsa Fine. Jordan’s passion for her company is unrivaled by anyone I have ever met. She does what she loves, and it is easy to see. For these reasons, I am happy to say that this post is sponsored by Elsa Fine. I was over the moon when Jordan asked if I would want to be a part of something like this. Anything to help her succeed… How on earth could I say no? Not to mention the outfit is killer.

I mean, this dress… It is perfect for this time of year when I get stuck in between dressing for fall but still trying to hold on to the end of summer. I would not hesitate to wear it with a sweater on cool fall nights, but I can rock it without one right now. Bonus points because it has pockets! I don’t think it gets any better… until you see the details.

That print! The fringe! To die for. It is the attention to the details, like trim and patterns, that make Jordan a style expert in my mind.

A cute pink lipstick was the perfect match to this dress.

I was born with the ability to walk in wedges like a pro (I think it is because I am so short, God just wanted to lend a helping hand), but sometimes my feet need a break. These shoes are absolutely perfect because they still give me a little height. These work very well for girls who think they are too tall for wedges too. They match everything and every style.

They do run a little big, so make sure to size down! I wear a 6.5 usually, and these are a 6 but still a little big. You should go get yourself some of these fall staples, they are on sale too!

I paired it with my Orange Tory Burch Amanda Crossbody and J.Crew sunnies.

The cool thing about Elsa Fine is they even throw parties (in the Charlotte area)! Who doesn’t love a party with good clothing. They come to you with champagne toasts, discount codes and shopping in your own home with your best friends. I don’t think it gets better than that. Email Jordan (jordan@elsafine.com) with more details and questions!

Now go spend all your money at Elsa Fine!

Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the know!

“People are the prettiest when they talk about something they really love with passion in their eyes.”

I figured the best drink to pair with this outfit is Jordan’s favorite! A French 75! I personally haven’t ever had one, but after reading what is in them, I may of just found my new favorite too.

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 ounce gin or Cognac
½ ounce fresh lemon juice
2 ounces Champagne
Lemon twist

Preparation

Make simple syrup: In a saucepan over low heat, warm sugar in 1 cup water until dissolved. Cool to room temperature before using. (There will be extra syrup; refrigerate if not using immediately.)
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, shake gin or Cognac, lemon juice and 1/2 ounce simple syrup.
Strain into chilled flute or cocktail coupe. Top with Champagne. Garnish with lemon twist.

Recipe borrowed from the New York Times.

My partner in my search of good food and every thing Nashville this summer (who has excellent taste in music) showed me a new Spotify playlist called “The New Retro” and it is all I have been listening to lately. If you know me, you know that I mean all like nothing else… The next few posts will all be songs from that playlist, so go look it up!

The playlist is all new music that sounds like it’s from a different era. This is the kind of music that makes you wanna dance with dashing boy and sing-a-long. An artist that is on there with a couple songs is Leon Bridges. The guy is outstanding. I haven’t heard a song I didn’t like by him. He grew up in Texas and was a gospel singer who was heavily influenced by his mother’s musical styling. Thank goodness for moms, am I right? After looking at his concert dates, I have a very strong feeling that I will be seeing him this fall… I think I just have to… Here is his song Coming Home, enjoy!

While you are at it, listen to this one too.

you do you, rach

A Year of Lasts

August 18, 2015 Rachel GodfreyLeave a comment

Yesterday was my last first day of my undergrad span at Appalachian (except spring semester which isn’t a first day because school has been happening already). It was a bittersweet feeling knowing that this season of life is slowly ending, but it is hopeful and joyous because I have the world waiting for me. Classes will be manageable and fun, but the best part is… I have a friend or two in almost every one of my classes. Oh the joys of being a senior.

Being a communications major I get to take some pretty awesome classes, one of which being interpersonal communication. I learned things in that class that I will take with me forever. Small bits of information like how to communicate with cultures that are the opposite of the American way of life, how men and women communicate differently and the importance of a first impression.

With a new round of teachers and students in my classes, the first day is always the day to dress to impress. If I don’t look nice any other day, at least their first impression of me was that I was dressed well and on time. For my first day of class look, I went with a skirt made by one of my sweet sisters, Meredith White, and a bright yellow polo.

This skirt, y’all. Meredith stated Nineteenth Avenue Designs this summer with the help of her mother. I saw the first skirt she made and knew I had to have it. I also wore this on our busiest night at the Farmers’ Market because this is the perfect skirt for all your running around needs. It isn’t too short or tight, but still makes me feel like the sassiest person in the room! She custom makes them for each person after you send your measurements. To say I am obsessed is an understatement.

This skirt deserves more than a white tank, so I found this yellow gem and couldn’t resist the duo.

And these new J. Crew sunglasses… I will be trying extra hard to not lose these.

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression.”

Always make sure to put your best foot forward.

Thanks for the ballin’ pictures Kate Davis Photography

Now, email Meredith (nineteenthavenuedesigns@gmail.com) and get yourself a very cute skirt in a pattern of your liking. You’ll never want to take it off, I promise.

After a long last first day of school, I sat down with some of my best friends, made some dinner and sipped on some wine. The perfect ending to any day really… But what I really wanted to drink was a margarita (because we made Mexican).

For one drink
1 1/2 oz. tequila (100% agave a must, preferably a “reposado”)
1 1/2 oz. triple sec or Cointreau
1 to 1 1/4 oz. of lime juice
Salt for the rim of the glass

Shake all the ingredients with cracked ice in a cocktail shaker until the exterior frosts. Strain into a glass over rocks, or “up” into a cocktail glass. A slice of lime as a garnish, while not strictly necessary, is a civilized touch.

Stolen from Bon Appetit

I have loved this song and Greg Holden ever since I heard him on Lightning 100 this past spring. Lucky for me, I will get to see him for free this fall at Live on the Green. This is the perfect song for this final school year because I want to savor every last moment. I hope you enjoy singing along to this song as much as me.

you do you, rach

Childlike Wonder

August 13, 2015August 15, 2015 Rachel GodfreyLeave a comment

Moving, moving, moving is all I have been doing these past two weeks. Maybe a little shopping for the new place, but mostly getting ready to head right back up the mountain for my senior year. Having to put my clothing in two different states is cramping my style a little bit, but there is an easy solution to this problem… A dress!

When I don’t want to face the task of choosing a whole outfit, I always put a dress on because it’s one piece and not a lot of thought. I got this dress as a going away gift from my aunt. I will let you in on a little secret. It is from CrewCuts. I always hated being short and small, especially when I was little, but now I love it! I can get this adorable dress for a fourth of the price. Keeping my style playful is very important to me and sometimes that means sneaking into parts of the store that aren’t exactly for me. Thanks Mom for the good genes.

These shoes take this dress from sweet and adorable to fun and funky. I’m in love with these shoes and this brand. Kork-Ease is known for introducing the wedge to the American fashion industry in the 1970s. They win everything in my book. I don’t know where I would be without wedges… maybe a few less nights with sore feet. These wedges are BAE in the realist way. I wore them to a party one night and another girl had them on. A pal said, “Don’t worry. They look better on you.” From that moment on, I decided these shoes and I would never part.

(P.S. I made that bracelet)

I have been a lover of the tassel trend since it started. I think I just enjoy the flair it adds to any basic outfit.

I am a huge fan of a ponytail in most any situation. It’s the quickest way to beat the summer heat.

Photos courtesy of the fabulous Kate Davis Photo!

“Above all watch the world with glittering eyes, the whole world around you. Because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”

-Roald Dahl

Outfit Look-a-Likes: Dress|Shoes| Sunnies

It is so important to always look for the fun and joy in situations. When you take this approach to life it gets a lot easier.

My new drink, y’all. My father and I went to see the Counting Crows VIP style which meant an open bar and good food. It was at the new amphitheater in Nashville and Pickers Vodka was the sponsoring vodka. They made 3 flavors, red, white, and blue (I love it). Blood orange, plain, and blueberry! All of which were amazing! While Pickers is only available in Middle Tennessee right now, they are expanding!

For this drink you need:

Pickers Blueberry Vodka (or other blueberry vodka)

Lemonade

That’s it! I fill a glass with ice, pour in however much vodka I am feeling at the moment, and fill the rest with lemonade. It is a perfect drink to share with Mom and Dad and also your best pals. I will be getting some to take back to school with me, don’t worry.

Today’s song is brought to you by one of my Top 10 bands of all time ever (like the list that will never change). The Wood Brothers! If you have never listened to them, you are doing yourself a HUGE disservice. I got the chance to see these guys live in September and it was one of the best concerts I have ever been to. It is a group of actual brothers that love playing music and are damn good at it. At the concert, they brought out an old mic and just played in a circle together. I got chills, it’s casual. I want to post every song they have, but I am going to have some self-control and let you guys look them up (Honey Jar, Lovin’ Arms, Wastin’ My Mind….)

This song really means a lot to me. It reminds me of my grandfather who passed away in September, and whenever I hear this song, I just think of him especially the last verse. I knew how proud he was of me and how happy I was to be blessed with such an amazing influence in my life.

you do you, rach

On The Move

August 2, 2015August 2, 2015 Rachel GodfreyLeave a comment

It’s been a while, but I have a valid excuse! I am moving back to school and have been insanely busy with packing and decor related tasks.

When running errands keeps you too busy to look cute, jean shorts come in handy. They are an easy way to look put together when you are on the go trying to collect yourself. My favorite pair is some J. Crew boyfriend jeans that I cut off myself. I have had these since high school and plan on never parting with them. We’re in a pretty serious relationship. I have a love affair with button downs… Especially if they are plaid. This one used to be my mom’s from the 90s which she so sweetly gave to me (read: I took out of her closet.) When you know that you have a lot going on, comfort and ease is number one!

Moving is so stressful, and I never ever want to do it. I am looking forward to a new year and a very fun year. I have road trips and concerts planned in between all the football the South has to offer. Starting a new school year is such an exciting time, especially when graduation is at the end. To be completely honest… My favorite part about a new school year is that I get to decorate a new room and house. The designer in me comes out in full swing and the ideas never stop.

These purple bad boys are my favorite! I got them on super sale for $8 at UAL. I am not the biggest fan of sandals for some odd reason, so these with the open toes were a match made in loafer heaven.

Keeping my hair out of my face is always a struggle. I can’t stand when it is in the way, but I saw a couple of girls doing a half up half down top knot and had to try it. It is now my go to style when I just want my hair out-of-the-way.

Looking cute, comfortable, and staying cool is an uphill battle, but when you have some classics in your closet it will all be okay.

Photos provided by the lovely Kate Davis Photography

I am not going to post links to the outfit this time because these clothes have been around for a while, and I bet that most of you already have an outfit like this in your closet.

Expect a fun DIY next week as I get the finishing touches on my new home together!

The best way to cool down after a long day of moving is with an ice cold beer. I encourage you to try something new and summer-y because they are leaving the shelves way to soon! Samuel Adams Summer Ale has been one of my favorites this year, along with Stealin’ Time by Magic Hat!

Having upbeat music is crucial to keep you going on long days. A band that I saw at Hangout Music Festival this year was MisterWives, and y’all. They are fantastic. Her voice is so unique, and they just know how to make you want to groove. They are big believers in equality and even have songs about it which is pretty awesome. Enjoy “Our Own House” just like I will enjoy my new house starting Tuesday!

you do you, rach