If you are similar to me then you are either in a nice dress or skirt, but never sporting some jeans. Even in the colder months I have to force myself to put on pants and I end up going more towards the leggings. 

For my body shape - being on the shorter side, I can never find jeans that actually 'fit' me perfectly. Yet, there are times when I want to wear a cute pair of jeans - but make it trendy. Hence, I decided to do my guide to making jeans fashionable. You're probably thinking - where do I start? I am going to give you my personal tips on the three ways that I style my jeans.

 If you're looking to class up some jeans you can never go wrong with a nice blazer. I am wearing I&M high-waisted jeans that are a size 6. What I love about high-waisted jeans is that it is flattering for all body types. It seems to cover all the right areas while flattering your mid section, and if you're on the shorter side, like me - you need these to give the illusion of height or a longer torso. 

​I paired these with a fun light pink blazer that is from  H&M. I love adding a blazer to a jeaned look because it can add a bit of flair to a toned down every day pants. You can go as fun and bold with a blazer - if you have a bodacious personality try a blazer with some fun prints or design, if not, you can keep it muted by doing a solid color or sticking to black and white. The options are endless - so have fun with it!

Raise your hand if you've ever been intimidated by crop tops? I know my hand is way up in the air. There's this misconception that only a certain body type can rock the crop top - and I am here to squash that myth. Every body is beautiful and with the right pair of jeans it can be a flattering on every body. Another reason why I love the high-rise jeans is because if you're a bit reserved it allows you to feel comfortable especially with some cute fun colored crop tops. 

Now, if you're still not feeling the crop top or not a fan of showing that much skin you can pair it with a nice kimono or blazer that can finalize the look. 

This next way to style is probably one of my favorites! If you're a 90's baby, like myself, the graphic t is something that is dear to your heart. I am thrilled that it is making a come back - I am also thrilled to style it casually with a nice jean. Not only is it comfortable and chic but you can have so much fun brining the look to life. I personally love a fun witty graphic t with a catchy phrase or bold picture. Pairing it with a nice high-waisted jean is the perfect Sunday Brunch look - or when you're running errands. All in all, this pairing is one that you can never go wrong with!

If you are like me, and styling jeans can sometimes not come naturally to you, then I hope these tips helped! Remember in everything bring your own personality and sparkle to the outfit and you surely cannot go wrong.

What is your favorite way to style jeans? Comment below. Happy Monday love bugs - it's good to be back!

This weather can be a bit of a downer. In Chicago, you never know from January to March, what type of weather you are going to get. You can wake up and one day it'll be decent and sunny, then the next day mass chaos. It can be difficult to plan your attire when the weather is inconsistent. However, The Dropp Shoppe Boutique has given me some great seasonal options to keep you cozy and cute as we transition into spring!

​My issue is it's always hard to be cute with a giant fluffy jacket covering your outfit, or making you feel like an Eskimo. However, with these transitional jackets, you can fee fierce but also stay warm. I love how they are easy to add to any outfit. You can see how I styled them below. With these fun colors and prints, you can add it to your everyday look or to your going out wardrobe as well.

My favorite is this gorgeous plum trench coat that I paired with a rosewood colored sweater and these fun sparkly high waisted pants. This look is perfect for the office, you can go in with style and grace. The best part about this trench coat is that it can be paired well in the office as well. It also takes the side of a sophisticated blazer and can be paired with so many different looks.

I am also a huge fan of vests, especially in the spring and winter. I love pairing them with nice leggings, especially leather ones, and a cozy turtle neck. This comfortable black vest is a perfect accent to add to your outdoor everyday look.

Not only does this boutique have amazing outfits, perfect for any occasion, but they also have great jewelry as well.  Take a look at some of these statement pieces that can bring out the WOW factor in your outfit.

I am a huge advocate of supporting locally owned businesses and this boutique is a prime example of such a great one. I am honestly honored to be modeling their lovely transitional pieces because the quality, fabric, and overall style are amazing.

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog post love bugs. 

Also, shout out to my brother/ photographer, for shooting this and creating the video content! Check him out.

Until next time,
xoxox
Rachel

A lot of people shy away from bold prints and colors but during the summer I try to be as bold as I can be. Bright vibrant colors are pretty much made for the warmer months. There's nothing like a fun funky color paired with a cool print to simply uplift everyone's senses when they see you walk by.

Personally, my favorite is pairing a bright fun color (like magenta) and topping it off with a bold print, in this case, I used polka dots. I did a blog post not too long ago featuring my favorite J Crew skirt that had polka dots on it. Sadly, you don't see much polka dots these days but this fun skirt from Topshop is simply one of my favorites. 

I am always a fan of the jean skirt look. It's so versatile you can wear it with any type of shirt for so many different locations. 

I love this fun pairing so much that I am listing a 2.0 version of how to wear polka dots with another outfit, the jumpsuit! I mean c'mon guys, they are just so much fun to experiment and play with.

​Jumpsuits are my absolute favorite and you can use them for the office by pairing it with a nice blazer. Or you can bedazzle it up and wear it out on the town. The beauty of them doesn't simply end with their versatility, which is what I am all about, but they are friendly for all shapes, sizes, and body types. Wear these bad boys with absolute pride!
The top left polka dot jumpsuit is from red dress boutique and it is simply so adorable! With a cute handbag and some big sunnies, you're all ready to go and tackle your day.

The second image is a jumpsuit from Pink Lily. Their outfits are always so adorable and have such great fabrics! I love how the tie in the front adds that perfect sprinkle of fun to this jumpsuit. It's always fun to have a flared leg silhouette that is just above the ankle. All my shorties, (like me) this one is for you girls!

The third on the top is Asos and they are changing the game with this gorgeous fun overall polka dot jumpsuit. Pairing this with a fun t-shirt underneath or an off the shoulder top, would be a great addition to this timeless fun outfit.

​I know getting out of your comfort zone can be difficult especially when you start to experiment with bold prints. However, try to take it slowly at first. You want to feel good with your choices and confident. However, as you start to play around keep adding little splashes of color, or bold prints, and soon you'll be ready to fully indulge in the next level fun. I hope some of these outfits inspired you. Thanks so much again for taking the time to read my blog! You guys are the absolute best! Happy Monday and cheers to a new week!
Until next time
xoxo
Rachel

​You guys it is finally June, meaning I hope that we will be having some good swim weather soon. One of my favorite things about living downtown is that there are so many awesome beaches that you can choose to go to. Sometimes, I love to sit, with a good book, and just lounge and read on the sand.

With the summer weather approaching, I decided that I wanted to do a spotlight on some of my favorite bikinis. Therefore, I am spotlighting my favorite swimsuits from Kulani Kinis! Now, we all know I am not always thrilled to wear bikinis because they can feel quite uncomfortable or the fabric can be a bit uncomfortable.  Not only is the fit perfect for all shapes and sizes, but the fabric is super smooth and soft. I literally wore my bikini all day because I forgot that I had it own.

​These are perfect for that nice summer weather. I love the different prints and colors that Kulani Kinis have. I am all about the accessories to match your swimmy and I am in love with my tropical print bikini and matching headband.

Also some of their swimsuits can be reversible. The one that Julie is wearing below can be flipped and have dual wear! That is my favorite thing because you get two awesome prints for the price of one! 

​I also love how bright their colors are like the pinkish coral bikini that I am wearing in the pictures below. I paired it with a cute wrap scarf and a nice little summery kimono which can be perfect for the beachy breeze. 

If you are not much of a two-piece person, like I normally am, they also have adorable one pieces. Julie is wearing their cute baby blue one piece that covers and shows just the right amount of skin.

​Not only is the owner super amazing, kind, and sweet but she has invested in the right type of swimsuit making it sculpting for all different types of women. As the summer months approach and you're looking for the perfect swimmy I suggest you check out their amazing swimsuits! Thank you Ness for allowing me the opportunity to showcase your amazing brand it was totally a pleasure. Below I am linking all the swimmys that I received and they're linked to the website for you to shop. Thanks again for reading along babes! Until next time.

xoxox
Rachel

​ I love spring and summer so much because you can finally go out more and wear a bit less. I am constantly in search of great finds and I am so excited to be doing a Spring haul with the amazing Dropp Shoppe. We all know I have a special place in my heart for businesses that are operated in the USA. They had a dream to provide affordable beautiful clothing. They worked hard to accomplish that dream and look where they are now!

I was so pumped to try on and style some of these awesome pieces. Some of them are great for special occasions like this beautiful Walk my Way rainbow maxi  with a crisscross back. The material is so lightweight and fun you can wear it for that first date or going out shopping with girlfriends. The colors are literally all my favorite because we all know I like a TON of color in my clothing. I love the slit up the side as well  giving that tiny bit of sexy along with glam. The best part of this dress is it does all the glam for you so if you want to put your hair up in a fabulous messy bun with a bright lip you are ready to take the town and go. I think we need more dresses like this for sure. This dress is true to size and I am wearing a size small.

​This jumpsuit is called Miss Independent and I am all here for it! It just screams fierce boss lady. I personally love jumpsuits but due to my height, I can't always wear them. However, this jumpsuit fits so perfectly and is perfect for tall and small statures. Guys, can we talk about this gorgeous jeweled neckline? It literally reminds me of something that my idol Meghan Markle would wear. Super sophisticated and chic. Got that business proposal coming up or that presentation? No worries Miss Independent is going to give you the sparkle you deserve to get you through your day. Also, a super fan of open backs and this jumpsuit has one! 

I​t's a Vibe halter tanks are super cute and colorful. I love how they fit and the material is super comfortable and sleek. My skin is always sensitive to fabrics but this one feels like you're sleeping on a soft pillow. I got sent two of the fun egg colors and I am all about it! I paired it with their navy jeans and the white jeans which worked perfectly with one another. It's a perfect rooftop outfit or after work happy hour. Their Hey Good Lookin' and It's a Beautiful Day jeans are so flattering. I sometimes struggle with jeans. In fact, I was joking with someone a couple of days ago telling them I honestly don't have many jeans in my closet. In high-school I was all about it but as I got older I couldn't find jeans that fit me or gave me that added support I needed. Most jeans give me no lift but make me look super flat and in this day and age not cool ha-ha. Yet, these awesome jeans gave that added support and made me feel super amazing in my skin. The combos together can work so well with each other and I was so excited to pair a nice little heel with it along with a blazer or nice little sweater.

​You ever go out grocery shopping or spending a day with friends walking around downtown window shopping? This Keepin' It Casual is for you when you have those long days! I actually wore it out with my husband while we were doing a boozy brunch and I had a couple of people come up and feel the soft material. I was all about it! This French terry strapless jumpsuit is like a blanket (the soft ones) covering your body. I like the grey color because you can pair it with a bunch of different colors it's quite versatile. Personally, I wore it with a nice black choker and some black wedges. It's that perfect everyday comfortable look that we all need in our life. 

​I am obsessed with this Here for You black buttoned down dress! Ugh, I am absolutely obsessed with it for two reasons. One, its versatility I paired it with a black and white kimono and a cute hat and I was ready to go anywhere. Two, its comfort, such a great material that meshes to your skin perfectly. Normally with these type of dresses, it's too tight showing off every curve and bump on your body. Might be great if you're going to the club but not for everything else. I received this dress in black but there are a couple of other colors you can choose from!

​This Rise and Slay is that perfect bit of motivation you need for your day! Pairing this with the beautiful Glow White leggins is making me want to go out and take a run simply to show off my outfit. I am obsessed with the crisscross design on the leggings and the shirt is perfect light material so it doesn't allow you to drench in sweat. Now, you can also pair the Soft and Breezy Tee with these leggings. I love the dynamic back on this super comfortable shirt. All you need is to pair a cute lacey bra or sports bra underneath and you are ready to go.

A​lso, where would your clothing be without the little bit of sparkle from the earrings? I am obsessed with not only these colors but the design as well. I have seen these little beauties become very popular and I am all about it! Perfect for the office, for a fun night out, or for a nice cocktail hour. These beauties can accessorize you anywhere and everywhere.

I was so excited to be able to model and show you guys these awesome finds from The Dropp Shoppe. I try to choose my clothing wisely for you guys, places and companies I truly love and believe in. I want to give a huge shout out to The Dropp Shoppe for allowing me to support and show off their dream and baby, sometimes that is quite hard to do. The Dropp Shoppe is such a wonderful clothing company and I am honored to be wearing some of their amazing spring finds. 

If you are ready to go shopping and get some fantastic spring and summer finds we got you covered! Because I love you guys so much you can use my promo code 'Rachel20' to get 20% off your orders! We all know those tax returns are coming in so make sure to treat yourself to some lovely pieces-- you deserve it! Huge shout out to my friend Katheleen for shooting this amazing try on video for me! Once again thank you so much for following along with me on this amazing journey! I love you all so much!

Until next time,
xoxo
Rachel

​Fashion is more than just a hobby or something you merely study. It is a lifestyle and a way of expressing emotions, thoughts, or memories that have left an everlasting impression on you. Whenever I see a designer's dream design I see their story, their love, and their creation blossom into real life. That is the beautiful thing about fashion and one of the main reasons that I was so honored to be apart of Chicago Fashion Week.

When I was a little girl I always dreamed about walking in a runway show. However, as I got older the disappoint of reality started to set in. I was told that my height would never allow me to do one of my dreams. I took it with a grain of salt believing that I can do anything I put my mind to.

However, after you hear 'No' several times you start to believe what you are told. Words, whether they mean to or not, can affect everything. I lost confidence in myself and started to actually let myself believe that I would never have the chance to walk in any type of fashion show despite how hard I tried.

I wish I could speak to 15 year old me. If she could see how far she's come I know she would be proud. I'd tell her to keep her head held high, believe in herself because she has the power and the strength to do anything. Now, I am not saying this to gloat but to show that people will tell you things. Put you down, or tell you that you can't do something. Take those comments but don't water them and grow them into this weed of self-hate. Remember that no one knows what the future holds and you are the author of your own destiny.

​After that guru type post above (sorry for all the flowery lingo) I wanted to tell you guys about my first event for Chicago fashion week. Style Rivals was such an amazing opportunity to be a part of. I got to watch these amazing new designers showcase their elaborate clothing, some of them unleashing their styles for the first time. To be a part of someone's dream coming true is incredible. The ora inside the room was contagious and so very positive as people had their dreams unfold before their eyes.

These designs ranged from Chicago inspired, people, wearing Chicago themed memorabilia, to a plethora of pink (guess my favorite). The creativity was endless and I was so proud of each and every designer who had the courage to showcase their ideas and designs.

Also, I want to give a huge shout out to one of my favorite Chicago clothing stores, Akira, for making me glamorous. I thought there would be no better designer to wear than the incredible stylish Akira that dressed me in a silver Grecian goddess type dress. Not only did it fit perfectly but it was the right about of class and sass. We all know I normally go for the bright bold colors, but, there is something so elegant about silver. Plus, it paired quite nicely with the glam fashion chic theme. So, thank you so much to Akira for getting me fashion show ready!

​​The founder and CEO Tony made me proud to be in this show, because of his mission. Inclusion was the theme of these shows and for once you could see all people, come together to show off their passion in designer clothing. What I loved about Tony is that he made it possible for short, plus, and average people to be able to walk down the runway showing that they are just as capable as anyone else. He spoke about how the fashion industry causes people to doubt themselves instead of encouraging but he wants to change the game and make everyone feels beautiful in their own skin. 

I had the opportunity to walk for the lovely Dress 2 Dazzle which has work out, evening, and business attire. It was such an honor to wear this phenomenal clothing. If you remember, I actually did a feature for her on my blog before. You can read more information about her here.

I got to witness and learn about some amazing designers that ranged from all over the world. Most importantly I got to walk with one of my close friends Kathleen, something that I have never done before. Not only was she a model but she also hosted some of the show. Her and her friend Ryan, filmed and edited a lot of the content from the show. Courtesy of them, you can watch a bunch of our highlights above in the Chicago Fashion Week video. They were so talented and it was such an honor to be a part of this with them.

There are so many times when you look back and feel thankful for all the things you've done. I know that I will be able to look back on this moment and remember checking off one of my childhood dreams. I want to them everyone who helped me in preparation for this show. I want to also thank the Fashion Bar team and designers that made this a reality.

Also, a huge thank you to all of you who read and continue to support me through my journey in life. I love you all! Happy Friday may your drinks be strong and your weekend long!

Until next time,
xoxo
Rachel

​t is no secret that I am under 5'7. Standing tall and proud at 5'3 there's a lot of things that I sometimes feel uncomfortable wearing especially before I started blogging. There's this stigma that if you're under a certain height you can't rock fashion probably designed for those 5'8 and up girls. I look up to bloggers like Olivia Rink who has completely shattered that stereotype, saying it's okay for us short girls to look cute in anything as well. That is what ultimately inspired me to write this blog post on the fabulous overalls because I've heard so many ladies, 5'7 and under, saying that it doesn't fit them right. I am going to be listing some of my favorite overalls and where you can buy them!

Overalls are so stinking cute and have been around for quite some time. I think my fourth-grade first-day picture has me in two ponytails and some overalls on. I think the beauty of fashion is that it's timeless and a lot of trends end up repeating themselves. I have seen so many overalls on different blogs and websites and I'm not going to lie, super excited for it!

I love overall dresses like the one I wore for my best friend's bachelorette. I got this cutie from Forever 21 and I'm not going to lie was so scared to try it on. Not only am I short but I have wider hips, more so than normal people, my mom likes to call them my child-bearing hips. My hips are so wide that sometimes it makes items of clothing fit pretty snug only around my hip area. What I love about this overall dress is that there are buttons you can use to keep it fastened or loosened (especially after you down a couple of chicken nuggets).  It also isn't too loose at the top which I have found a lot of overall dresses are. Denim is always so fun to wear so I was so excited to find this denim overall dress that I simply adored. I am wearing a size small and it's honestly true to size. I know Forever 21 can sometimes be weird with their sizing but I found this one to be quite accurate.  Here are some of my favorite overall dresses linked below. The first being the one I bought from Forever 21.

​Some people are so afraid to wear overalls because they think there's this stigma of it being too country or off-putting. Of course, I never want to force people out of their comfort zone but I love them and there they're so cute. Personally, I love a pair of colorful overalls pairing them with a cropped top and some cute white gym shoes. This is perfect for our spring weather because it is cute and girly but can keep you warm in that 50 and 60-degree weather. 

I love them because you can put your hair up in a messy bun or ponytail and add a cute colorful scarf to the mix getting you ready for the day! Below are some of my favorite colorful overalls and the links to where to buy them.

​Remember, no matter how you choose to wear your overalls be yourself. Do what makes you happy and comfortable and add your own bit of sparkle to it. Don't let silly things like your height, or body shape, deter you from being authentically yourself. I hope my top overall picks helped you get in the springtime mood! Goodness knows we're all ready for it to come. Happy Friday lovelies until next time!
xoxoxo
Rachel

​When I was a little girl I remember looking at magazines and seeing these beautiful, tall, astonishing women thinking "wow, I wish I could be like them." As a young girl, I was bombarded with these women who seemed undeniably unreal, masked by perfect skin, hair, and bodies. I mean even the Disney princesses I watched would wake up with perfect hair and makeup, let us be real, no one wakes up in the morning with ringlets and curls. More like nappy hair and drool alongside their cheek.

You're probably wondering why I am starting this blog post this way and it's simple. I grew up having these unreal expectations of how women are. As I grew my mind was watered by the media and I slowly started to believe that someone like me, 5'5, with imperfections, could never be one of those girls in the magazines. It shot down my confidence and the modeling and the acting world didn't make it easier.

I would go on auditions and would constantly hear "well you're pretty but just not the look we're searching for." Or "You're just not tall enough." As if a woman could simply be defined by a look. What is the look? Is one person always the same? I started to believe that it would never happen to me and my confidence truly took a huge hit. I even started to second guess being apart of this industry.

When you see me as this 'blogger' you see all the good. The smiles, the decked out hair, the fully done makeup. You don't see the endless nights of scrolling thinking "I will never look like these beautiful other bloggers". You don't hear the thoughts going in, the endless questioning if people can see all those small imperfections that you see. You see the mask, the mirror of someone who smiles no matter what.

It took time to grow and absolutely love myself. That takes time and dedication along with lots and lots of watering. Just like a seed you need to sprinkle nourishment and love into yourself so you can grow into that rose that you're supposed to be.

We are women, we are strong, beautiful, and so diverse and that is what makes us so beautiful. I am proud to say that certain companies are erasing that cliche of someone holding the perfect 'look' one that has been forced down our throats since childhood.

On Akira's spread, you can see women of all shapes, colors, and backgrounds and I was truly honored to be representing a brand that portrays that image.

The feeling is surreal when you go on one of your favorite stores and actually see your picture staring back at you. Two things went through my mind. One, pure bliss because it proved that all my hard work is slowly starting to pay off. I thank God that opportunities are coming my way because nothing great ever comes easy. The second was something different and special. I felt this weird connection and pride. Out of all these beautiful amazing women in Chicago I was chosen to represent women on our international week. We as women as so dynamic that being able to be on a spread, dedicated to women, is truly a humbling and honorable experience.

I want to represent the girls who don't think they're pretty enough, or tall enough, or good enough to follow their dreams. I want them to know that you ARE and you CAN. When you look in the mirror don't let those cliches cloud your reflection, only allowing you to see your imperfections. Look in the mirror and know that you are a QUEEN.

All the imperfections in your life don't make you less but build you up to be the person that you are meant to be. You are strong, you are mighty, and you are WOMAN!

I am pleased to show you some of these fantastic pictures taken of me and some amazing women. Thanks so much again for taking the time to read this blog post.

Until next time
xoxox
Rachel

I have always believed that success can easily be obtained if you believe in your goals, your possibilities, and most importantly yourself. When you look good, you feel good, and nothing says boss babe than a nice old fashioned suit. Now, sometimes people may assume that suits were only built for men, tailored to bring out the positives in their body. While that may have been the case in the past, now, women can successfully wear their own suits with pride as well. In my profession, I am constantly called to either meet with people, or conduct business propositions, and I always feel like the best version of myself when I bring out my handy dandy suit. I want you all to be successful in whatever path you choose to take therefore I am going to be listing my top tips on how to get the perfect suit for you.

Each of these suits listed above is perfect neutral beginning suits. Something that is classic and can be used for interviews, business meetings, or if you're looking to make yourself seem a bit more sophisticated within the office. One of my favorite fictional fashion icons is Olivia Pope, and we all know that women can rock a nice suit.

These are my blazin suits meant to add a bit of color to your life. These are perfect when you are stuck in a grey day maybe a bit down and you need to remind yourself of how amazing you are. Or maybe you're like me, and you like to be bold with your outfits, I think these are for you. Now, I'd do the opposite of what I stated before. For these, I'd make the blouse or undershirt more basic keeping it classy with either white or creme underneath. All of these amazing suits are linked and from Express.  ​

Thanks so much again for reading everyone! I hope these suits have inspired you to add some more to your closet. You never know when you're going to have to dress to impress! Happy Monday leave a comment below if you have a go-to suit!
xoxo
Rachel

I have always loved Topshop! In fact, I still remember when the first store opened in Chicago. I was in high-school at the time and I remember being enamored with the all the zesty fashion trends that I witnessed inside. From neon pinks, to tangerine orange, to aquamarine, this store reminded me of a exotic rainbow. My first thing that I ever purchased there was a small white cami that had sparkly embellishment on it. It was on the sales rack, and I swear I wore that outfit to the point where people started to get annoyed seeing me in it. The high-school Rachel was a bit much.

I remember Topshop being such a huge inspiration on my fashion and I promised myself one day that I would be able to wear it regularly. Now, I do not wear it all the time ( I am not a Rockafella). However, I wanted to show you this awesome sweater that I bought from there. 

Not only is the fit nice and comfortable but I love how neutral it is. You can wear this color and pair it with any type of bottoms. I decided to make the black leggings the secondary star of this outfit masterpiece. You can also wear white jeans underneath with some tall over the knee boots. Versatility is something I always speak about and luckily this outfit can be worn on many different occasions.

This sweater got me excited about Topshop again so I am going to be listing my favorite sweater below, and guess what, they are all under 70! You never know, with that special Galentine's week coming up, these could be the perfect outfit to wear with the girls!

All the outfits above are linked so you can take closer looks at each! I hope this spread has given you some awesome ideas and opened your eyes to  some cute sweaters! May your weekend be long and your drinks strong! 

Until next time,
xoxox
Rachel