This week’s goal was to integrate a bit more color into my life. In recent years, I’ve started making black and gray my go-to colors for many pieces of clothing and, while I love so many of those pieces, realized it was time to rotate in some of the more, well, upbeat pieces in my closet.

I also wore my new Lululemon Vinyasa Scarf that I got for Christmas this week, and wanted to call out its amazingness. It has snaps so it can be made into a wrap, a blanket, etc. I can’t wait to travel with it. I have a feeling it will be a game changer on planes.

Day Eight: Monday, January 12

(sweater: Forever 21 / pants: Paige Denim / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail polish: Tobey by Zoya)

Day Nine: Tuesday, January 13

(sweater: Kut From the Kloth / faux leather leggings: Asos / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail polish: Tobey by Zoya)

Day Ten: Wednesday, January 14

(sweater: TJ Maxx / jeans: J Brand / boots: Dolce Vita / nail polish: Up the Ante by Revlon)

Day Eleven: Thursday, January 15

(top: BP by Nordstrom / pants: Paige Denim / booties: BP by Nordstrom / scarf: Lululemon / nail polish: Up the Ante by Revlon)

Day Twelve: Friday, January 16

(sweater: Kenzie Girl / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / boots: Dolce Vita / nail polish: Merino Cool by Essie)

Day Thirteen: Saturday, January 17

(sweatshirt: Forever 21 / leggings: Zella / hat: J. Crew / nail polish: Merino Cool by Essie)

Day Fourteen: Sunday, January 18

(sweatshirt: Target / leggings: Zella / nail polish: Merino Cool by Essie)

Whoa — I’m more than two-thirds done with this wardrobe challenge! Time has flown which means, as I already knew, I have quite enough clothing for this season, just as I do for summertime.

This past week, I think my favorite outfit was my Day 17 one, because I just love that World Market scarf. The sweater I wore yesterday (Day 21) was also a favorite. It’s lightweight and I love the color. Perfect for a relaxing weekend outfit!

Day Fifteen: Monday, January 19

(sweater: 4Hawthorne – via Stitch Fix / skirt: Free People / tights: HUE/ boots: Dolce Vita / nail polish: Madison Ave-hue by Essie)

Day Sixteen: Tuesday, January 20

(sweater: Target / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / cowboy boots: Justin Boots / nail polish: Madison Ave-hue by Essie)

Day Seventeen: Wednesday, January 21

(top: BP by Nordstrom / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / scarf: World Market / boots: Dolce Vita / nail polish: Toff by Butter)

Day Eighteen: Thursday, January 22

(dress: H&M / tights: HUE / boots: Dolce Vita / nail polish: Toff by Butter)

Day Nineteen: Friday, January 23

(sweater: Target / pants: Paige Denim / boots: Dolce Vita / nail polish: Rich Raspberry by Revlon)

Day Twenty: Saturday, January 24

(sweatshirt: Splits59 / leggings: C9 / shoes: Nike / nail polish: Cafe Pink by Revlon)

Day Twenty-One: Sunday, January 25

(sweater: BP by Nordstrom / jeans: DL 1961 / shoes: TOMS / nail polish: Cafe Pink by Revlon)

Whoa — I’m already done with my 30-Day Winter Wardrobe Challenge! That went by fast.

Main takeaways from this exercise:

I think I’m good in the striped top department. Seriously — I’m all set. (Note to self: You’re all set.)

Also, I knew I wore leggings a lot in the fall/winter, but I seriously wear them ALL THE TIME. (I’m okay with this, but the challenge has been a reminder to myself of this. They are soooo comfortable. I just can’t stop!) Oh, and don’t worry — I have multiple pairs of the BP by Nordstrom leggings. That’s what I love about them — they’re super affordable but also comfy and quality. (Promise I wasn’t paid for this endorsement.)

In short, I most certainly have a winter uniform: leggings, booties, and a long-ish shirt/sweater that’s acceptable to pair with said leggings and booties (more often than not, a striped one). It’s not especially interesting, but it’s my reality (as shown by these past 30 days).

Here’s a recap of what I wore during the last few days of the challenge. Thanks to those of you who followed along!:

Day Twenty-Two: Monday, January 26

(top: Lou & Grey by LOFT / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail color: Bikini So Teeny by Essie)

Day Twenty-Three: Tuesday, January 27

(sweater: Nordstrom Rack / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / boots: Dolce Vita / nail color: Eternal Optimist by Essie)

Day Twenty-Four: Wednesday, January 28

(sweater: TJMaxx / pants: Paige Denim / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail color: Eternal Optimist by Essie)

Day Twenty-Five: Thursday, January 29

(top: BP by Nordstrom / faux leather leggings: Asos / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail color: Smokin’ Hot by Essie)

Day Twenty-Six: Friday, January 30

(top: Cynthia Rowley / sweater: Target / skirt: Urban Outfitters / tights: HUE / boots: Arturo Chiang / nail color: Smokin’ Hot by Essie)

Day Twenty-Seven: Saturday, January 31

(top: Nordstrom Rack / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail color: Mint Candy Apple by Essie)

Day Twenty-Eight: Sunday, February 1

(top: Target / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail color: Mint Candy Apple by Essie)

Day Twenty-Nine: Monday, February 2

(sweater: Target / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / boots: Justin Boots / nail color: Watermelon by Essie)

Day Thirty!: Tuesday, February 3

(sweater: Urban Outfitters / leggings: BP by Nordstrom / booties: BP by Nordstrom / nail color: Watermelon by Essie)

Even though that silly Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow earlier this week, predicting another six weeks of winter weather, I have my mind on springtime and sunshine. Poor Fulton is ready for more walks, and I’m ready to ditch the layers and be able to enjoy — rather than just tolerate — running outside.

Don’t get me wrong — I’m thankful to live in a place with four distinct seasons. (When I lived in Malaysia, one of the things I missed most was having seasons. I realized how important seasons are to marking time and indicating traditions.) I’m also grateful to not be dealing with the crazy snowpocalypse weather much of the north has dealt with this winter.

So, to summarize: Thank you for coming, winter. Now you may exit gracefully, making room for spring.

With that in mind, I’ve collected a list of a few springtime workout pieces I’ve been eyeing. I can’t wait to add a few of these to my closet so they’ll be ready and waiting for when things warm up!:

• Tracker Short II Four-Way Stretch (Lululemon):

• Salar Capri (Fabletics):

• Twisted Tank (Alo):

• Without Walls Floral Ikat 3-Inch Short (Urban Outfitters):

• Lynx Tank (Pure Barre):

• Chic Strappy Back Sports Bra (Onzie):

• Go Capri, Antigua Cobalt (Albion Fit):

• Women’s Versatile 3.5″ Low-Rise Short (Brooks):

• Jules Cami (Free People):

• Crux Capri (Athleta):

• Loop-Strap Tank (GapFit):

As I start to plan (perhaps optimistically and bit prematurely) for the transition from cold to warm weather, I’ve started hunting for some lightweight, perfect-for-springtime jackets and sweaters to layer over short-sleeved and sleeveless tops and dresses. That way, you can start to re-introduce some warm weather wardrobe favorites while still staying warm and cozy during the in-between temps. Plus, it’s the perfect way to change up the look of your summertime favorites.

Here are my favorite looks. Any jackets/sweaters you’re longing to add to your springtime wardrobe?:

• Draped-Lapel Trench Coat (Forever 21)

• Laena Knit Moto Jacket (Anthropologie)

• Olive & Oak Elbow Patch Cardigan (Urban Outfitters)

• Long-Sleeved Open Cardigan (Target)

• Faux Leather Sleeve Blazer (LOFT)

• Nylon Bomber (Asos)

• The Boyfriend Windbreaker (Current / Elliott)

• Vintage Denim Jacket (J. Crew)

• Quilted Moto Knit Jacket (J. Crew)

• The Sweet Stripe Full Zip (Albion Fit)

I can’t get enough of accessories, but at the same time I’m pretty picky about the pieces I want to add to my collection. These days, bracelets (especially stack-worthy ones), classic, monogrammed items, and earrings top my wish list. (And then of course there’s nail polish, which to me is an essential accessory. But that deserves a post all its own.)

Here are a few of my accessory loves of late:

• Monogrammed Zip Transport Tote (Madewell). Between work trips and the frequent weekend excursions Kevin and I take, I find myself packing lots of bags. I’d love to add this tote to my collection. It would be stylish for years to come, and the size seems perfect for all those “extras” I always find myself taking along.

• Java Cocktail Ring (House of Harlow). I don’t wear a ton of rings, but the few I have and love are big chunky ones like this House of Harlow beauty.

• The Dreamer Gold Ring (Vanessa Mooney). Speaking of rings, I put this Vanessa Mooney one on my Valentine’s Day Gift Guide post last week, but had to include it again here because I’m such a fan.

• Carly Bracelet (Loren Hope). I am beyond obsessed with all things Loren Hope, and lately I’ve been especially loving this brass bracelet. Wouldn’t this be perfect to layer with another bracelet or two, or a watch?

• Aztec Bangle (House of Harlow). I have so much love for this bracelet. It would be lovely on its own and also awesome to stack with others. (I’m always falling for House of Harlow jewelry. They do such good work!)

• Classic St. Mawes (Daniel Wellington). I’m head over heels for Daniel Wellington watches, and this classic one would be a great accessory investment.

• Sweetheart Scallops Wrap Necklace (Kate Spade). Pendants tend to be my go-to necklace of choice, but this delicate Kate Spade option caught my eye recently. Love!

• Tortoise D-Frame Sunglasses (Forever 21). I adore my pair of Everett sunglasses from Warby Parker, but these sassy oversized shades from Forever 21 would be a great second pair.

What accessories have you been eyeing? Please share!

Last year, I was on the fence with the whole romper trend, but I’m here to report that at this point I’m fully on board. They have so many adorable and flattering styles available this year, and those things are SO comfortable. They’ve become my new go-to for spring and summer time. Who’s with me? (I’ve noticed that many of my favorite retailers now have “Romper and Jumpsuit” sections of their websites. It makes romper shopping easy, for sure!)

100% sold.

All the love for the romper.

Now moving on to a handful of rompers that have caught my eye this season:

• Jump Rope Navy and Ivory Striped Romper (Lulu’s):

• New Look Acid Wash Romper (Asos):

• Melinda Knit Drawstring Romper (Urban Outfitters):

• The Reformer Playsuit (Free People):

• Vero Moda Lace Edge Detailed Romper (Asos):

• Layered Floral Print Romper (Forever 21):

• Side-Tie Open-Back Romper (Urban Outfitters):

• Lucy Love Riley Black Romper (Lulu’s):

Now here’s the question of the season this year: Jumpsuits? Yay or nay?

(Is it weird to talk about bras on my blog? I’ve become a little desensitized about bra talk, since Kevin works in marketing at Hanes in the bra department. There’s lots of bra conversation in our lives these days, so I’m pretty well desensitized.)

This season of sunshine also brings with it a conundrum: what to wear under those tanks, rompers, and dresses? There are so many adorable summer clothes that require bras that need to be part of the outfit because the straps and/or back will be visible.

Thankfully, these days there are lots of options when it comes to these bras (kind of like a bra meets cami, in many ways). My go-to is the “bralette,” which doesn’t offer too much support for you more well-endowed ladies, but is SO comfy and is the perfect way to solve this summer clothing challenge.

Here are a few perfect-for-summertime bras that have caught my eye:

• Kimchi Blue All Over Scalloped Lace Bralette (Urban Outfitters). I actually own — and LOVE — this bralette. It works great under a couple of maxi dresses and rompers I have, in particular.

• Never Say Never Sweetie Soft Bra (Cosabella). This one comes highly recommended by Emily from Cupcakes and Cashmere (a great blog you should totally check out if you’re not familiar with it), so I know I can trust it. Plus, it comes in SO MANY AMAZING COLORS. Choosing which color you want most is the hardest part!

• Seamless Strappy Back Bralette (Free People). I love the back of this one, and know it would work well with lots of summer outfits. It comes in several great seasonal colors as well.

• Romantic Lace Triangle Bralette (Aerie). I don’t have any bralettes from Aerie, but my very favorite everyday bra is from there. And how cute is this bralette?

• Caged Back Triangle Bralette (Victoria’s Secret). I have a black caged back bralette that’s perfect for certain outfits, and would highly recommend adding one to your summer wardrobe if you don’t have one. This one is especially fun in the back!

• Seamless Strappy Bralette (Forever 21). Here’s another (very inexpensive!) version of a caged back bralette.

• Darling Lace Bralette (Privilege Clothing). This Canadian-based boutique does a great job of curating in-style items, and this cute bralette is no exception.

• Lightly Lined Racerback Bralette (Aerie). Here’s another Aerie offering that’s super cute. (I was impressed with all of Aerie’s awesome bralette options!)

What are your go-to summertime bras?

These Workout Wardrobe Wish Lists have become a bit of a tradition over here at Curiouser & Curiouser. They’re super fun for me to put together, and I hope y’all enjoy these seasonal round-ups as well!

This summer, I’m completely infatuated with florals, and you’ll see that pattern make a frequent appearance in the list below. I’ve included some items I own (and LOVE), and lots I’m just lusting after. Hopefully these pieces will arm you with the motivation you need to keep moving all summer long.

Without further ado, let’s get to the latest Curiouser & Curiouser Workout Wardrobe Wish Lish, shall we?:

• Women’s Printed Double Strap Tank Top in Classic Daisy (Calia by Carrie Underwood). This is one of the pieces I already own, and I’m OBSESSED. I have to pace myself so I don’t wear it to Pure Barre too often. (I want to get it in the other print just so I have two versions of this top!):

• Soffe Dri Capri (Soffe). Soffe’s one of my clients at the ad agency I work for, and I’m happy to report that their activewear is really great. I’ve tried out several pieces, and especially love these wicking capris. (Rest assured: This brand has grown up since you rolled down the waistband on their shorts way back in middle school.):

• Without Walls Laser Cut Short (Urban Outfitters). Who says you have to sacrifice fashion for function?:

• Mesh Back Tank (GapFit). Crisp and white, this top would be great for a barre class, a run, or a summertime tennis match:

• Power X’s and O’s Capri (Athleta). I’m loving the feminine cut-out detail on these capris:

• Antigua Bra Cobalt (Albion Fit). Because it wouldn’t be a Workout Wardrobe Wish List without an Albion Fit pick! I have the Antigua leggings  in pink and ADORE the print. This bra gives a fun pop of floral to any workout outfit:

• Carefree Cut-Out Cami (Beyond Yoga). I’ve been longing to add this piece to my Pure Barre wardrobe for a while now, and think it might just be time to pull the trigger:

• Macy Run Short (Lorna Jane). These are simple, but they look so comfy and their color is so perfectly summertime:

• Dynamic Elite Vest – Sugar Coral Fusion (Strider’s Edge). This is a new-to-me brand out of the UK (where apparently “tanks” are “vests”), and so far I like what I see!:

• Women’s Essential Printed Tight Fit Capris (Calia by Carrie Underwood). These I don’t have yet, and would love to add them to my summertime workout wardrobe. They come in five adorable floral prints, but this one’s my top pick:

• Utthita Yoga Cami (Sweaty Betty). So ballet-esque and classic, right?:

What are you longing to add to your workout wardrobe this season?

Now that it’s June, we’re into full-on beach season (a.k.a, my favorite time of year).

Kevin and I spend as many weekends at the beach (our go-to spot is Oak Island, North Carolina) and, in fact, are headed there this weekend with some friends. (Can it be Friday already?)

With that in mind, I wanted to share a few bathing suits I’m loving this year, as well as a handful of cover-ups I love. (Why is it that good cover-ups are always so hard to find? Does anyone else run into this issue? And, too often, they’re waaaaay too pricey, too. Anyway, I digress. Let’s get to the beachwear.)

• Scoop Bikini Top and Strappy Bikini Bottom (Aerie):

• Outlaw Chloe Wrap Top and Estella Fit Classic Bottom (L’Space):

• Women’s Scallop Bow Bandeau Bikini Top and Scallop Bottoms (Target):

• The Flirt Bandeau (Victoria’s Secret):

• Topshop Floral Bandeau Bikini (Nordstrom):

• Lucky Lace-Up Back Bikini (Nordstrom):

• V-Wire Bandeau Bikini (Madewell):

• Casa Bottom and Mesa Top (Free People):

• Double-V Romper (Victoria’s Secret):

• Miken Geometric Cover-Up Dress (Target):

• Flouncy Embroidered Tunic (Victoria’s Secret):

• Women’s Crochet Cover-Up Dress (Target):

• Topshop Tile Print Sundress (Nordstrom):

Happy beaching, y’all!

I’ll just put it out there: I’m definitely in the leggings can be pants camp.

Now, I have some criteria that an outfit must meet in order for this to be acceptable. For example, for most leggings (think solid black), it works best when your top is long enough to cover your butt. Just be smart: Some leggings are much more see-through/non-pants-like than others. In those cases, cover things up a bit, please, or people will judge you.

But back to leggings as pants. Of COURSE I’m on board. These things are SO comfortable, and they’re acceptable to wear in public? Yes, please. I also love that joggers are in this year, as they’re kind of the sweat pant to leggings’ yoga pant. Basically PJs that you can wear outside of the house. And get compliments on! Score.

With that in mind, I’ve rounded up a list of leggings and joggers I’d love to add to my wardrobe this season. There are so many adorably comfy options to choose from!:

• Amuse Society Charley Black Sequin Leggings (Lulu’s). These are on the pricey side as far as leggings are concerned, but I’m obsessed. How cute would these be for holiday parties??

• Lou & Grey Washed Knit Joggers (LOFT). Check out the fun zipper detail on the pockets! Also, these are on mega-sale right now: BONUS!

• Blue Scuba Legging (Express). I’ve had great luck with Express leggings in the past, and just fell in love with these. What a great color! I have a pair of black leather leggings that I adore, and these would be a fun twist on that style.

• Leggings in Crushed Velvet (H&M). Crushed velvet leggings, you say? I’m listening, H&M…

• Contemporary Pleated Woven Jogger (Forever 21). A slightly more dressed up version of the jogger, this pair is polished and lovely.

• Splendid Batik Print Pants (Nordstrom). *Swoon*

• Leggings in Tartan Check (Asos). With plaid so very in this season, these leggings would be the perfect addition to any girl’s closet!

• Vero Moda Chambray Jogger Pants (Target). You can always count on Target for some affordable, on-trend looks.

What jogger and leggings styles have caught your eye so far this fall?

For the last few months, I’ve had the privilege of blogging for Beyond Yoga, a company that makes high-quality, super fashionable workout gear. I first discovered this brand at my Pure Barre studio (their stuff is PERFECT for barre workouts), and quickly fell in love with their clothes. Everything Beyond Yoga makes is functional and adorable, but it’s also more comfortable and softer than any other workout brand I’ve found. You’ll seriously want to live in these clothes.

Beyond Yoga also has a philosophy I can get behind. Their founder, Jodi Guber Brufsky, professes that Beyond Yoga is “…a line of clothing for everybody and every body. The purpose of Beyond Yoga is to help women feel beautiful all day long, allowing for an effortless transition from carpool to class, lounging to lunch or work to workout with stylish ease…I aim to inspire women to love who they are from the inside, to discover and accept themselves, and to embrace their own authenticity.”

I’ve enjoyed blogging for this brand, and have written pieces on my love of Pure Barre with “6 Reasons to Try Pure Barre,” “Friendsgiving Hostess Tips,” “Wintertime Workout Tips,” a piece on making the most of family time during Christmas in “Home For The Holidays,” and more.

And in the meantime, my love for Beyond Yoga clothing has continued to grow. I thought I’d take a moment to share some of my favorite Beyond Yoga pieces with y’all, in case you’re looking to add some incredibly comfortable, fashionable, and functional pieces to your workout and casual wardrobe:

• Salt and Pepper Long Legging (in Black and White): These leggings, y’all. The BEST. I find myself reaching for these so often, and I get bummed when they’re in my dirty clothes basket. I love the black and white, as it’s neutral and pairs well with just about any solid top.

• Shimmer Paneled Long Legging: I have been so excited to add these leggings to my wardrobe, and they arrived this past weekend! I’ve basically been wearing them nonstop ever since. They’re so fun (and festive!), but are still neutral enough that I know I’ll get a ton of wear out of them.

• Quilted Essential Long Legging (in black): These are the best leggings when you want to go neutral but are looking for a little flair, too. The quilted style is both comfortable and adorable.

• Cut Out Cami (in black): Talk about adorable — how great is this top?? Pair it with a black and white pair of Salt and Pepper Long Leggings, and prepare for compliments to roll in.

• Multicross Cami (in imperial violet): I’m actually wearing this cami while I’m typing this post! I love that the straps are adjustable so you can get the top positioned juuuuust right, and the length of the tank is perfect, too.

• On The Move Racerback Cami (in true navy and garnet red): I love this top so much, I have two of them! It’s the perfect staple cami to have on hand for barre or yoga class.

For those of you who LOVE Beyond Yoga like I do, what are some of your favorite pieces from their line?

New year, new resolutions…new workout clothes are motivating, right? (I actually do believe that having workout clothes you’re excited to put on will likely encourage you to work out more regularly.)

I already have plenty of workout clothes, but I still can’t help but keep an eye on what’s available. I thought I’d share some of my recent finds with you guys. You know, paying it forward, right?:

• Helena Tank (Alo):

• Empowerment Tank (Athleta):

• Textured Love Paneled Long Legging (Beyond Yoga):

• Stay + – The Shaina (Good HYOUman):

• Rest Less Hoodie (Lululemon):

• Live-In Slim Fit Leggings (Zella):

• Arta Longsleeve Top (Fabletics):

• Electra Capris (Alo):

• Strap It Like It’s Hot Tank (Lululemon):

• Sunset Leggings (Electric and Rose):

What workout pieces have you wanted to add to your wardrobe lately?

It’s cold out here in North Carolina, and here in Winston-Salem it’s a snow day (looks like we have about 1.5 inches on the ground so far!).

What better time to shop for some cozy outerwear? From athletic to dressy and somewhere in between, here’s a round-up of some of my favorite jackets, coats, and vests to keep you nice and toasty this winter:

• Regent Topcoat (J. Crew):

• Ruched Knit Vest (Calia):

• Cascade Zip Up (Albion Fit):

• Mauna Kea Parka (The North Face):

• Frost-Free Fleece Lined Vest (Old Navy):

• Ultimate Parka (Asos):

• Along the Way Pullover (Beyond Yoga):

• Puffy Blanket Jacket (Lululemon):

• Cole Haan Signature Stand Collar Wool Blend Coat (Nordstrom):

How are you keeping warm in style this winter? Please share your favorite outerwear picks with me!

We made it to another Friday! What a great feeling. Fridays are even better when you have a fun weekend ahead, and Kevin and I have weekend plans that decidedly qualify as fun. We’re headed to the beach (and so is Bethany Novak, one of our faves) where we’ll hang out, eat some good food, run a race, and see David Sedaris (!!!) at UNCW. Whoa. So much good stuff to look forward to.

Speaking of fun, I have some links to share with y’all (per Friday tradition over here at Curiouser & Curiouser). Enjoy!:

• Everyone should watch this Organic Valley TV spot for their new breakfast drink, Organic Balance, but women especially will enjoy it:

• KIMMY SCHMIDT SEASON TWO IS OUT ON NETFLIX AS OF TODAY! (Can you tell I’m slightly excited? I just love this show. If you haven’t caught Season One yet, definitely do that first.)

• I told y’all that I was loving Living Proof’s PhD (Perfect Hair Day) shampoo and conditioner, but hadn’t tried their PhD dry shampoo until this week. It is AMAZING and deserves all the hype it gets. (Why did I wait so long to try this stuff??)

• I have to brag on Kevin here for a second and share this great review by the guys over at The Manual. They took the time to review Fulton & Roark‘s full line of products, and — spoiler alert — are big fans all around.

• I’m pretty obsessed with this adorable (and just edgy enough for my taste) faux leather jacket by Blank NYC. It would be the perfect springtime lightweight piece!

Hope y’all have fun weekend plans to look forward to as well!

It’s now definitively springtime here in North Carolina. Springtime on the cusp of summertime, even. We still have some cooler weather from time to time, but for the most part things are heating up around here, which makes me itchy for some new wardrobe items — starting with ones of the workout variety.

After all, the amount of time I spend in activewear is equal to — if not in excess to — my time spent in “regular clothes,” and so it makes sense that keeping my legging and tank game on-point is always top of mind. (Who’s with me?)

With that, here are some of the activewear pieces I’m currently drooling over:

• True Self Tank (Lululemon). This tank is currently sold out of all sizes but Size 2 right now, but I’ve crossed my fingers that they’ll restock it soon. I’m in love!

• Higher Ground Stirrup Legging in Static Pink-Vivid Violet (Beyond Yoga). Don’t these leggings just scream summertime? I can’t wait to snag a pair!

• Live In Midi Slim Fit Leggings in Green Tactical (Zella). I’ve loved Zella leggings for years now, and am thinking of adding a pair of them in this awesome green color to my closet soon. I love that they’re neutral without being black (nothing against black leggings — I’m a huge fan), so they mix things up a bit.

• Peek-A-Boo Striped Cami (Beyond Yoga). All of the Beyond Yoga Kate Spade collection is drool-worthy, but this is the piece I’ve had my eye on the most lately. Too cute, right? (So what if I already have this same top in black? No judgment, please.)

• Go Capri, Antigua Cobalt (Albion Fit). Albion Fit’s Antigua print is lovely on tops, bras, jackets, leggings (a.k.a. everything), and these capris are particularly perfect for this time of year, don’t you think?

• Align Pant (Lululemon). WANT. That is all.

• Goddess Bra in Palm Springs Zest (Alo Yoga). This bra is oh-so summery. I’m obsessed!

What activewear pieces are you crushing on this season?

Another Friday? You know what that means. Another Links I’m Loving post! (You’ve probably been anxiously awaiting this very moment allllll week, huh?)

Before we get to the links, though, I wanted to give a shout-out to my husband, Kevin, who is working his last day at Hanes today and, starting Monday, will be working at Fulton & Roark full time. (Whoa. Go, Kevin! I’m SO, so proud of you for growing an idea into a product into a career.)

Okay, on to those links. I’ve got some good ones for you this week.

Let’s get to it:

• I discovered a new app called Waterlogged that I’m rather obsessed with. It helps you track your water consumption over the course of each day (fun name, right?). You set your daily water goal (mine is 80 ounces) and you can set up bottle sizes you typically use (my main one is my 25-ounce S’well bottle). Then, as you drink water, you just log it in the app. Until you reach your daily goal, your remaining ounces for the day show up in a red circle on the app (the way your email alerts do). For OCD people like me who can’t STAND those red circles, this acts as a wonderful incentive to drink up! I tend to drink lots of water anyway, but this app has helped boost it even more.

• This might be old news for some of you, but I’ve recently fallen in love with Thrive Market. I’d been getting their emails for a while and had a vague understanding of what they offered, but until this past week hadn’t taken the time to explore it. As it turns out, this is a marketplace full of some of my very favorite (and staple) items (mostly food items, but they have other categories like beauty and pet). Not only is their selection great, their prices are genuinely awesome. I’m so excited to have found this new gem!

• Essentially everything on the New Arrivals page of Albion Fit. Just…yes.

• This time last year, I was raving about the Netflix Original Series Bloodline, and I knew the second season was coming out soon but didn’t realize HOW soon. May 27, as it turns out. WAHOO!

• Y’all. These fake obituaries that a 20-something girl’s mother wrote for her while she was living in San Fran (the obits are published in The New Yorker) are so, so good. Please read them all.

• I stumbled upon this 2012 TEDx talk by Erika Napoletano while doing some research for work this past week, and was really hooked by what she had to say. Her 16-minute talk — entitled “Rethinking Unpopular — centers around shifting away from being polite and leaning hard into being honest. Being honest with ourselves, and with others. Because, she argues, we’re all human. And all this over-apologizing that we have going on just masks the awesomeness of being, well, human. Not everyone we meet belongs inside our “blanket forts,” she points out — and that’s okay. Give it a watch:

• I neglected to include “Surprisingly Awesome” in my list of favorite podcasts a couple of months ago, but it should definitely be added to the list. Each episode, the hosts (Adam McKay and Adam Davidson) and their team dig into a topic that is, on its surface, pretty mundane. They always manage to prove that topic’s depth and nuance, though. Some of my favorite episodes, for example, were on pigeons, frequent flyer miles, and broccoli. Their latest episode, on mattresses, was another winner for me, mainly because Kevin and I always marvel at the absurd abundance of mattress stores in Winston-Salem (and so mattresses are often a topic of conversation for us, especially when running errands on Saturday afternoons). Two main takeaways from this episode: 1. Sleepy’s is owned by Mattress Firm, which means that Mattress Firm owns about, oh, 25% of the commercial real estate in Winston-Salem, by my estimation. 2. According to a Consumer Reports expert, the sweet spot price range for a good mattress is $800 – $1,500 (ish). Anything cheaper you probably want to avoid, and anything more expensive probably doesn’t get you any better quality.

Hope everyone has a beautiful weekend!

I am always in awe of my friends’ many talents. I know people who make amazing things out of wood, who have started awesome parenting websites, and who design captivating narrative-inspired wallpaper.

And a college friend of mine, Kate Morris, is another one of those inspiring and talented folks. Her craft? Making stunning jewelry. Kate and I met through our sorority in college (shout-out to the ZTAs out there!), and now she’s a Pure Barre instructor (like me!) in Birmingham, Alabama, in addition to being a middle school Spanish teacher and crafter of lovely jewelry.

Kate has been making jewelry since she was young, honing her skills through the years and using her craft to fund summer mission trips to South America starting in high school. In fact, to acknowledge her love for South American culture, Kate names all her pieces in Spanish. She also donates 10% of her profits to the International Mission Board. Her dream is to eventually use KMJ to somehow be heavily involved in an orphanage/school in South America.

After selling on Etsy for a few years, she founded Kate Morris Jewelry in 2015 and began selling her wares via her current website.

I love every single piece Kate designs, and they adhere to a style Kate calls “elegant bohemian.” (I’d have to agree with that description.) “You could wear most of my pieces to a formal event, or you could wear them with a T-shirt,” she explains.

Some of my top picks on Kate’s site right now include the Canela necklace, the Villa necklace, and the Naturastack bracelet.

And, lucky for you folks, Kate is offering 15% off to Curiouser & Curiouser readers when you use the promo code “curiouser” at checkout. (This discount is valid on TOP of many already discounted prices on the site right now thanks to a great sale, so be sure to shop now!)

For one SUPER lucky reader, Kate is giving away one of her beautiful Marla bracelets!:

(I have one of my own and am so very obsessed with this piece.) To enter to win, simply follow Kate Morris Jewelry on Instagram. That’s it! (Please also leave a comment on this post letting me know you’ve followed KMJ.)

The giveaway winner will be announced Monday, July 11, so please be sure to enter (a.k.a. follow KMJ on Insta) by Sunday, July 10!

Happy jewelry shopping, y’all!

My obsession with nail polish (and constantly painted nails) continues in full force, and so it only seemed right to devote a blog post to the colors I’ve fallen hard for this season. Here are the polish shades I find myself reaching for again and again during these warm weather months:

• Formula X’s Cupcakes & Cashmere collaboration, “Peach Tea.” This is by far my go-to shade for the summer. It’s perfection in a bottle, y’all.

• Zoya “Rue.” It’s lovely and understated, and pairs perfectly with just about anything.

• Zoya “Charli.” I’ve found myself drawn to lots of earth tones this summer when it comes to fashion in general, so it makes sense that this polish made it into my line-up.

• Essie “Mint Candy Apple.” Light and fun, this polish just demands to be worn on a beach, don’t you think?

• Essie “Bikini So Teeny.” Always and forever a summertime classic.

• butter LONDON “Fruit Machine.” You’ve just got to have a perfect pink shade for those summer months. This is mine.

Fellow nail polish lovers: What colors are you loving this summer?

It’s Friday leading into my birthday weekend (my bday is on the 14th — this Sunday!). That makes this an extra fun weekend. Even more fun? My mom, sister, and I (who live in Atlanta, Columbia, and Winston-Salem, respectively) are meeting up in Charlotte tomorrow night for a Dixie Chicks concert. I can’t WAIT. Susan and I got my mom tickets to celebrate her birthday back in March, so we have been looking forward to being together for this show for several months. It’s just a bonus that it falls on my birthday weekend, too!

I hope you have lots of fun things planned, too. While we wait for the weekend to actually begin, though, here are this week’s Friday Favorites from Curiouser & Curiouser:

• The Olympics have been the theme of every evening at Keller Manor this week. (We’ve kept the TV on at work, too, and so it’s been fun to keep up with events during the day as well.) Kevin and I come home and tune in to the day’s events (we don’t have cable, but have been impressed with NBC.com’s streaming and replays), constantly in awe of the talent these athletes possess. I love the inspiration the Olympics convey, and the pride in country. Frank Bruni’s New York Times op-ed piece, “The Olympics Make a Grown Man Cry,” was spot-on, as far as I’m concerned. They’ve been a welcome relief amidst this insane political season and our cynical lives in general. This piece is definitely worth a read.

• I’m obsessed with Albion Fit activewear — specifically their Antigua print. I have a pair of Antigua Extend Leggings, an Antigua Romper (which I’ll probably be wearing to the concert this weekend), a Here and There Zip Up in Slate Antigua, and I just ordered a pair of the Slate Antigua Sprinters, taking advantage of a free shipping offer Albion Fit had earlier this week. If you’re looking for an awesome print to incorporate into your workout wardrobe, I highly recommend this one.

• Last Friday night, my friend Bethany (who lives in Richmond) and I had a virtual dinner date. Y’all — it was SO much fun! We’d found this Bon Appétit recipe for Thai Drunken Noodles (one of my FAVORITE Thai dishes) and both wanted to make it. We realized it would be much more fun to make it together, and so we did just that! We FaceTimed as we prepped and made dinner, then sat down and ate “together” as well. It was awesome, and we can’t wait to do it again. It honestly felt like she was in the kitchen with me, which made me so very happy. (And these noodles? Uh, yeah. I’ll be making them again soon.)

• Did y’all know there was a stationary-themed subscription box? It’s called Papergang, and it sounds incredible. (That is, for those of us who love all things paper — think notebooks, gift cards, desk accessories, and more.)

• Last, but certainly not least, Tim Regan-Porter, who I met while interning at Paste Magazine back in 2010 (he was the president and CEO at Paste) is now the Director of Mercer University’s Center for Collaborative Journalism as well as the father to a 3-year-old daughter, Rose. He recently wrote this piece on raising a daughter, and the importance of language in the process. I just loved his perspective, and wanted to share it with y’all.

Happy weekending!