The Writers Theatre

The Writer's Theatre has been around for decades and the performances used to take place in the back of a book store, unbeknown to the rest of the neighborhood. Now, with its stunning new building, that was finished around February of this year, no one can miss it. 

"Designed by internationally renowned architect Jeanne Gang, Founder and Design Principal of Studio Gang Architects, the new theatre center is sustainably designed with a focus on renewable materials and is pursuing LEED Gold Certification," writerstheatre.com states.

Fortunately, you don't have to be a member of the theatre or see a show to go into the building. A few weekends ago, my mom, grandma and I took a walk over there at magic hour and sat on the perfectly lit porch that wraps around the face of it. What's neat is that others sat up there too, eating lunch, working on a laptop, or just chatting like us. It's fun having a new hang out spot in town that's not a coffee shop or park.

Currently Obsessed With...

*Click directly on the images to shop or find the links below*

A while ago I posted my first "Currently Obsessed With..." Looking back, it's fun to see how my style has changed. Back then I was digging the 70's trend (was also binge watching That 70's Show) and couldn't get over wanting a pair of clogs and a suede jacket. I'm now thankful I didn't see that decision through.

Right now the above items have been lingering in my Shopbop hearts for months. I find that I'm drawn to more classic silhouettes, subtle patterns, and comfort.

The Frye sandals I ordered and the sweat pants are desperately calling my attention. The denim dress and espadrilles, however, are a little less practical. I tried on the espadrilles at Nordstrom the other day to ensure the fit. Although they're cute, I'm afraid they'll fall apart after only a few wears. And the denim dress... I could only pull off in my dreams [sigh]. That striped number is another story though. The loose fit and layered front looks so flattering. Finally, that reversible bikini: NEED.

Miansai

As a graduation gift, I asked for this Miansai bracelet. I've been eyeing on Shopbop for months. The screw detail is industrial looking, but the gold makes it feel elegant. 

When the gift arrived, the bracelet, being real gold, carried an unprecedented weight on my dainty wrist, making it all the more lux. I wear it ever day with just about everything; it instantly elevates a tee shirt and jeans. Unfortunately, now I want a whole wrist of Miansai.

High School Graduation

A few snapshots from my high school graduation (!!!). The evening went by surprisingly quickly, granted that my graduating class rings in a little under 1,000 students. I knew less than half. 

Honestly, the graduation itself wasn't all that special, probably due to the amount of alums. I sat there the entire time thinking one of four things: "I really have to pee"; "Who's that? They look so good!"; "Yikes! They look terrible"; and "That's a bizarre name." 

The most important part, however, was my dress. I found this A.L.C. dress on sale from $650+ marked down to around $170 (!!!) through Neiman's. I couldn't be more psyched about it. Unfortunately, very few people saw me in it, as I arrived 45 minutes late. Oh well! I'll definitely re-wear it, possibly to my cousin Katie's wedding this spring (can you wear white to a wedding?). My shoes, which are barely noticeable in the above pictures, are these fun Sam Edelman scrappy sandals. The texture on them play off the pleats on the dress perfectly. Walkablility: 8/10, but probably can't withstand a wedding.

It feels good to finally be done with high school. Now onto the next four.

Spotted: Ferris, Cam, and Sloan

On Sunday, May 22 I went for a morning run to the beach and the hills. As I approached, I noticed a huge tour bus and figured it was a group taking prom or wedding pictures. I minded my own business and continued with my workout until realizing a few of the tourists were wearing shirts that read "Save Ferris." A few steps further and I witness the funniest thing ever: a reenactment of the famous Glencoe Beach scene from Ferris Bueller's Day Off! 
The actors were dressed like them and preformed with lines from the movie. But the best part was the tourist that came in costume as Ferris, Cam, and Sloan - who knew they had such a following after all these years?!

Botton Down Denim

Lately I've been digging this denim pencil skirt from Rag and Bone. I purchased it at Aritzia in the winter and attempted to wear it with tights and boots at the time. Through recent discovery, the piece is much better suited for warmer climates and sneakers. 

When I bought the skirt, it fit well, but could use a little room in the waist (sitting down was slightly uncomfy). Now, I'm happy to say I've successfully eaten in it without needing to unbutton any buttons! High waisted things can be tricky;)

Clinique Goodies

I've never been one to obsess over anything beauty or skin related. As someone with sensitive skin, I always lean towards brands that are clean, simple, and light. Clinique is at the top of the list. I've been using their moisturizer for years and recently fell in love with their face wash as well (both not pictured). 
Above are some goodies (I left out the face wash!) that I got for free with my purchase of $50 or more. The consensus? Pretty pleased. That skinny, little monochrome stick is an eyelash primer and mascara duo and I notice a big difference when I use the primer. 10/10 Clinique, as always.

Anne Loucks Gallery

I often find that no matter how long I've lived in a place, there are still unexplored spots. 

Take this gallery, for example. I've walked past it a number of times but never took a moment to walk through it. Granted, their hours are weird and I'm at school or working for the majority of the day. Nonetheless, when I finally got around to it, I found it to be such a beautiful space. 

That's the beauty of living in a small town. Although it can feel monotonous at times, there's always secret spots to be discovered. 

GCG Happenings

On Tuesday we harvested over 50lbs of produce! It was a gorgeous morning and I left the garden feeling accomplished. 

The thing about gardening (in this case, for a good cause), is that while you dread having to set your alarm for 6:45am, contorting yourself to pick the perfect pepper, and spraying yourself with mud, you feel great afterwards. That early morning sun beating down on your skin at 7am is tiring and sweaty but also refreshing and awakening. 

Maybe getting down and dirty isn't your thing, but getting in touch with the earth every once in a while, whether it's through gardening or maybe yoga, is important in living a balanced and easy-paced life.

Our Favorite Restaurant

My family and I rarely go out to eat, but when we do, we tend to stick to the same 5 spots, one of which is Jin Ju. This spot is in the heart of Andersonville, with a window facing Clark Street which has the best, most diverse people watching. Asian inspired cuisine is among my favorites, so it makes sense that Jin Ju is my go-to spot for great Korean. 

I'm a creature of habit and, although I'm a big foodie, I tend to order the same thing at the same restaurants because of my allergies. At Jin Ju I always get their spicy wings for an appetizer and dak bulgogi as an entree. For those unfamiliar with Korean cuisine, dak bulgogi is boneless chicken breast marinated in a spicy red pepper sauce served with vegetables. 

Anyway, besides the food, the service is incredible and consistent too. Plus, if you walk a little further down the street, you're bound to catch the puppet show on wheels, pictured above.

xx

Currently Obsessed With...

   

When I get "obsessed" with something, I can't stop thinking about it until it's hanging in my closet, fastened to my feet, or pinned to my ear. 

Recently, I've been obsessed with the following: brown suede boots with a medium heel, flared jeans with a button fly, a maroon suede jacket, vintage Levis with a straight fit through the leg, clogs, because obviously, and a double piercing. All kind of essential in a girls wardrobe (and ear), right? I think so. 

After pulling together the visual above, I'm digging the slight 70s nod. I don't like to sway towards particular trends, but rather stick to an overall classic vibe. 

I have to conclude that the style above isn't too trendy but just the right amount of cool. I could also see myself wearing everything for multiple seasons and occasions. Versatility is always a must.

My Go-Bag

 

I carry this pink, envelope style bag with me everywhere. I call it my "go-bag" because I literally grab it and go. The contents of it are as followed: phone, wallet, gum, lip balm, sunnies, and an eye brow brush (I don't go anywhere without an eye brow brush). 

What's also convenient about this bag is that, because the remnants always remain the same, I can grab and throw it in another bag (i.e. gym bag, work bag, etc.). This bag can go from day-night in a second too. It can really do it all. 

I was so adamant about finding something like this because I always carry a tote or backpack to work, so, when I grab lunch or run an errand, I needed a chic little carryall that I could have on hand. 

Turned out, I didn't need to search high and low to find one. My mom had bought me this bright pink guy from the Gap (of all places) 2 years ago. I used it once back then for a party and now I carry it everyday. Who knew!... well moms always know.