My Likes: What’s Keeping me Inspired (birthday edition)

It’s my birthday!! For my birthday I knew I wanted to share a ‘get to know me’ personal type post; but wasn’t sure how I wanted to do that. Yesterday as I sat reading InStyle magazine I came across an interview of Melissa McCarthy (love her!) entitled “My Likes: Melissa McCarthy on what’s keeping her inspired”. I thought it was such a cool way to share information about someone and so, since it’s my birthday and word on the street is I get to do what I want lol, I figured I would copy this style and share my likes and things that are keeping me inspired right now.

It seems so crazy to be having a second lockdown birthday and in a lot of ways it feels like we’ve lost a year – like nothing has really happened since my last birthday. It’s a surreal feeling but one that is teaching me to look inward at what I’ve enjoyed this year. What experiences I’ve had and what personal growth I’ve done. It’s had me reflecting more than usual on what I things bring me joy, what things I love to do and what I need to stay mentally and physically healthy and happy.

Before getting into my likes I have to share the details of my birthday dress. How stunning is this hot pink maxi dress!? The dress is by Aidan Mattox, a line created by brand Adrianna Papell. This dress, in my humble opinion, would be the perfect dress for a formal summer event like a wedding guest or, in my case, your birthday! The dress fits true to size (I’m in a 6) and, as you can see, has the coolest detail on the back. It’s also available here.

Life Altering Books: If you’ve never read East of Eden by Steinbeck, please do me a favor and get it ASAP! It’s a slow start but truly, truly changed my outlook on life. I’ve read it 3 times already. An Imperfect Offering by Dr. James Orbinski is a powerful read, but not for the squeamish. It’s about Dr. Orbinski’s experience working with Doctor’s Without Borders during, among other things the Rwandan Genocide. It’s an important look at public apathy, doing good, and the human experience.

Favorite Musician: While I’m a die-hard Jimmy Eat World fan, when it comes to sheer musical talent and expression I’d have to say Taylor Swift is my favorite artist. I love her music but also the role she’s stepped into these past few years as a woman who is unapologetic about her life and her success. As well as speaking out on issues that matter.

Style Icons: I couldn’t narrow down this list! I adore everything Blake Lively wears – it’s colorful, sexy but understated and ranges from high fashion to wearable. I also love Jackie O for all things classic style and Blair Eadie as the fashion-blogger guru.

Favorite Places to Travel: I’ve been going to Aruba since I was a child and it’s my version of paradise on earth. I’ll also never stop loving travel to NYC and LA and as far as Europe goes I was blown away by Hvar and always love Florence.

Go To Designers: Self-Portrait collections consistently blow me away (sitting front row at the Self Portrait NYFW Runway Show was a dream come true!) I also love DVF for classic pieces and Alice & Olivia for fun, colorful and empowered pieces. Zara is my favorite affordable retailer – though I haven’t been shopping them as I want to see them better their practices (they produce clothes in horrible working conditions in overseas factories). I do always snag Zara pieces when I find them in thrift stores!

Women I Admire: Obviously this list could be a mile long, but the two that popped into my head when I read this question were RBG and Taylor Swift.

Historical Figure I’d Want to Drink With: Marilyn Monroe because, honestly, how damn fun would that night be?! and Princess Diana because I have so many questions and so admire her charitable work.

Greatest Lesson This Year: What my 34th year taught me, while in this pandemic, is that we need to focus on our connections. Telling people we love them, sharing laughter whenever we can.

Favorite Drink: If you don’t know what a French Kiss is, it’s delicious! It’s basically just champagne or prosecco with raspberry liqueur. My close second drinks would be a mimosa or a bellini! I also like Caesar’s because #Canadian lol.

As I start my 35th year of life that’s where I’m at with my likes and inspirations! I hope you found this interesting <3.