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How to Worry Less & Start Living

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Dorm Room Décor

Hello, hello, hello! I can’t believe it’s been over a month since the last time I’ve blogged! As usual, I’m caught up in the crazy busy schedule that I call "life”. But, I truthfully am really trying to work on setting aside more time for myself. This is my attempt at doing so for today (sorry thesis!)

Here is another view of, I guess, the "cozy" side of my room? here, i have my bed and my "nook" (which is what I call the pillow section of my floor where I read and do homework), as well as some of my favorite pictures I have taken, my (barely alive) plants, and mounted planner. The biggest problem I encountered with my room was how to make use of the floor space I had. Tile floors are so unwelcoming, and very hospital-esque, so I made the executive decision to get a big fluffy rug (thank you, Dad and Costco!!) It's honestly the highlight of my room, and every single person that has sat on it has commented on how comfy it is. So not only does it look chic, but it is now extra sitting room and a great way to utilize my floor space!

Another view of the nook! It's funny because everyone who has seen me sit here or has sat here refers to it as the nook as well. I added the plants for a pop of color. If you didn't gather already the theme of my room is minimalistic neutrals with subtle pops of color. Greens and blues are very calming and are the main colors of what little accents I chose to use.

Here is another view of my bed. My bed worked out with the old comforter I had at home, which actually happens to be for a full-sized bed. The reason this worked to my advantage is because it's long enough to hang over the side of my bed and conceal everything underneath - again, let me emphasize that I am really going for the minimalist look this year. I didn't want a printed comforter either, because I wanted to keep it basic and neutral. I used the mexican throw blanket to add an element of pattern into the look, and I'm very pleased with how it turned out. It really worked out in my favor that all of these things I just brought from home. The pictures I've had on my computer, and I printed them out for barely any charge at Wal-Mart. The brain drawing I drew myself!

Here is my mounted planner! I might actually dedicate a "how-to" blog post to this, because it's really been a hit and is such a great way to incorporate color and functionality into your space. This is where I keep track of my day and what needs to be done. It's nice that it's right above where I sit, because I can just reach up and erase or add whatever I need to.

Unfortunately, my fridge didn't necessarily fit into my "chic" criteria, but I think I spruced it up pretty well with my mug, cups, real and fake flowers, and the old-fashioned phone we're required to have for when we're on duty. I try not to put too much onto one surface, because it looks too cluttered and makes me feel a little claustrophobic. However, I think this exception works well.

Here is my dresser! I modeled it to look more like a vanity - gotta get creative with the plain furniture we get. I have anything beauty-related either on top of the dresser or stored inside. I have lauren conrad's beauty/fashion books on top, to emphasize the look I was going for, and I also keep my jewelry and makeup brushes on display. A mirror is necessary, of course, my sunglasses fit in pretty well. This is one of those surfaces I really try and keep everything else off of, because it looks cluttered really quickly if I don't.

Another view of my dresser area. In my top drawer, I keep my makeup, hair products, nail polishes, cotton balls, and anything else beauty-related. My second drawer contains anything medicinal or medical, as well as lotions and anything hygiene-related. My third drawer is where I keep my sleep/active wear. Anything that's folded goes in here, as well as bras, underwear, and socks.

This area is directly next to my dresser on the right. It's pretty self-explanatory. I have bathrobe and towel, which I purposely chose to be this color to go with my "calm colors theme". I also have a command hook hanging so I can hang up the towel I use to dry my dishes. Directly underneath, on the floor, I have my slippers and shower shoes lined against the wall. (If it seems like I'm anal retentive about how I keep my room, it's because I am)

The main difficulty I faced while trying to minimize my space was how I was supposed to conceal areas that you really need for storage. I decided a gray curtain would be ideal, because it keeps the neutral theme going, but also hides the busyness of my closet. Something I've realized over time is that the more things you have in your room, the more noise it creates without you even being aware - and I really wanted things to quiet things down more in my environment.

Here is what it looks like behind the curtain. While it is very organized, you see what I mean about the busyness. When I open this, it's almost like I get hit in the face by how much I have behind here. Granted, it's all essential things I need to store somewhere, but the curtain allows it to be hidden. I have a pretty strict organizing system here. On the shelf, I have sweaters and sweatshirts to the left, then sweatpants and sweatshirts in the second stack, color-coordinated jeans in the third stack, scarves for the forth, and then all of my heavy-duty socks, knee-highs, mittens, hats, etc. Underneath, I have my clothes hanging: first in order of going out vs. casual, and then organized by color. I used to organize by length, but I have found that color really helps me when I go to neutralize and accessorize my outfits. Underneath, I have my bins with food, cleaning products, my hamper, overnight bags, yoga mat, weights, humidifier, shower caddy - basically anything I need that I couldn't really find a place for.

As I mentioned before, another hiding spot for my things is underneath my bed. If i pull up my comforter, you can see my excessive collection of shoes, as well as my extra towels, drying rack, craft supplies, books for school, and my blankets. while it's organized, it's also very miscellaneous - another reason I would rather keep it obscured.

Switching gears! Here is my favorite part of my room: my desk. I have to admit that I don't sit here very much, but it's the best way i was able to keep things organized yet still pleasing to the eyes. To the left of my desk, I have my jewelry hanging (a recent idea that I am so excited about!) On top of the hutch, I have some art prints that I brought from home (I wish I could say I painted these, but alas, I did not). On top of the hutch, I have my crystal collection, which is very dear to me, along with my (broken) film camera. That space all the way to the left is where I keep my canon, the camera I was taking this picture with. On the actual desk part, I have my books in height order toward the back. My laptop is in the middle, with the books I am currently reading for leisure to the left. In my top left drawer, I have anything I would need for stationary or any office supply. In my top right drawer, I have anything tentative that I need to get to - so any "to do" lists, tasks, letters I need to answer, etc. It's my way of being able to access what I need to do, without it being blatantly noticeable when you walk into my room. My middle drawer has anything technology-related, and then my third drawer has any notebook/folder I don't need for that day. As you have probably inferred, I heavily rely on my organization.

While I haven't directly instructed you on how to do your room or what rules to follow, I kind of did so on purpose. Everyone has their own system and preference, so I can't really tell you what you can/can't or should/shouldn't do. However, if you like how my room looks, you now know the rules I adhere to or use to keep it looking the way it does! You can feel free to use these to model your own room after. Hopefully, you don't think I'm a total nut, given the extent I went into for everything. My mentality is that a messy room = a messy mind, so that's why how my room looks and feels is so important to me. I think a room is the first impression of who a person is, and I think mine fits who I am very well! Truly, Taylor

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What you'll need:

Red or maroon nail polish

A clear top coat

Scissors

Gold nail tape

Patience

Unfortunately, I used regular gold tape, so it didn't adhere properly to the nail polish. So, it should work out with actual nail tape! Just cut little strips out that fit on the tip of your nail, and put them on after you paint your nails either red or maroon! Finish with a top coat after you apply the gold tape and voilà! there are your holiday nails! Enjoy, and have a wonderful New Year! :) Truly, Taylor

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Fall Favorite

I have to admit, I've never really been one to step out of my comfort zone drastically, when it comes to my fashion sense. Granted, I'll try a new look here and there, but I try to be as discrete as possible when doing so. However, my most recent investment has been turning heads lately. I got this amazing jacket from Urban Outfitters, and it has truthfully been a conversation starter since. You could definitely say I'm channeling my inner Macklemore with this look. It's a bit of a statement piece. Being as comfortable as it is, it's worth the (sometimes negative) attention. I used to really dislike the look of fur and thought it was quite tacky, to be honest. But, it's really been growing on me this fall. It's a chic way to add some flair to your outfit, as well as the perfect way to stay warm. and this jacket is WARM. This is one of those instances in which you can be fashionable AND stay comfortable - who doesn't like a win/win?! LOCATION: Asbury Park Jacket: Urban Outfitters - $235 (well worth the money) Sweatshirt: Cotton On (my absolute favorite store right) - $14 Jeans: h&m - $5 (Yes, you read that right - thank you clearance!!) Shoes: Old Navy - $22 Also, a special thank you to my friend Emily for taking these shots!

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Taylor’s Top 5

I discovered this wonderful pizza place while on my lunch break at my internship in Red Bank! (FYI - Red Bank has some AMAZING food options.) They make gluten-free, organic specialty pizza - as well as other gluten-free appetizers. I recently tried the gluten-free chicken tenders, which were freakin' to-die-for. They also weren't super greasy, so I honestly may have liked them better than traditional chicken tenders. The pizza pictured above was half eggplant (with fresh mozzarella, parsley, roasted red onions, and tomato sauce), and the other half was pear gorgonzola (a cheese blend with gorgonzola, olive oil, pears, and walnuts). I was thoroughly impressed and felt that it was worth the $12 or so dollars I had spent. 2. My Kitchen Witch in Monmouth Beach

Jordyn showed me this precious little joint, and I immediately fell in love. Their menu is very gluten-free friendly, and most of the things that are not, you can substitute GF options in. I ordered the GF french toast, as well as a blueberry/vanilla soymilk/banana smoothie and was 100% satisfied. You could really taste the freshness and lightness of the ingredients - they really aim to use more nutritional ingredients in order to make "comfort food" healthier. With tip, I would say it came out to be $15, give or take, for my meal. 3. Broad Street Dough Co. in Oakhurst

If you're from the Monmouth area, you will automatically understand the joy that is associated with hearing the words "Broad Street Donuts". Not only are their gourmet donuts phenomenal, their social media presence is awesome. They really take the time to appreciate and interact with their customers, and it truly amazes me how many topping combinations they are able to come up with! I follow them on Instagram, and my mouth waters every time a picture comes up on my feed. They offer gluten-free and vegan donuts, which are incredibly delicious. tTey are a little more cake-like than donut-like, but I still think they hit the spot. You can custom-design your toppings, and most of the toppings you can pick from are GF. The one above has nutella, caramel, and coconut on top - *heart-eyes emoji*. I usually spend around $4 dollars or so per donut and have zero rAgrets doing so (please tell me you understand the reference here). 4. Lovin' Oven in Frenchtown

My sisters, stepmom, and I discovered this cute little place a few years ago. While I do wish they offered more gluten-free options (their breakfast menu only has about 4 or so), the quality and quantity of their food is incredible. I ordered the huevos rancheros yesterday, and was more than content with my decision. The blend of ingredients hit just about every spot on the taste-scale, and it was enough to keep me full for a good majority of the day. The fresh-pressed carrot-apple juice was AMAZING. I wish I could take a jug of that home! Their ingredients are also healthier, so you don't feel as glutinous when you indulge here. I think my meal came out to be $20 or so, which wasn't terrible for the amount of food I got. 5. The Fine Diner in Clinton

I don't know a single person who has had anything but great things to say about this place. While their omelets just so happen to be gluten-free, it is not a gluten-free friendly restaurant. This being said, the omelets are entirely worth it, and I still consider this to be one of my absolute favorite restaurants. It's about ten minutes from my house, and one of the most endearing places clinton has to offer. There is never a time that you go in and it isn't busy - and that is a very good thing. The service is great, and their portions are very generous. This place will always have my heart. I believe I usually spend around $10 or so whenever I eat here. I hope this post will enhance your eating experience or that it will least inspire you to venture out and try someplace new! Feel free to recommend any suggestions or ask any questions. Truly, Taylor

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Jacket: Amazon Turtleneck: Garage Scarf: Garage Jeans: Garage (As you can tell, I've been on a Garage kick lately!) Truly, Taylor

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Auburn Lips

T G I F - am I right? I feel like this has just been one of those weeks for everyone. So, let's raise our glasses to the weekend and push those bad vibes back in our book bags! As you may or may not have read in my 'Extracting Color' post, I have shifted my style more toward neutrals and black and white. The fun part about this is that while my outfits are generally monochrome,I can use accent colors in my looks. For example - colored eyeliner, a red watch, or my latest favorite: auburn lips.

Truly, Taylor

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Denim Factor

DAREK Top: Old Navy Shorts: H&M Shoes: DSW SHANNON Top: Forever 21 Shorts: Urban Outfitters Shoes: Converse Bracelets: Alex & Ani, Francesca's, & Juicy Couture TAYLOR Top: Hollister Overalls: Brandy Melville Shoes: Converse high-tops Also! This is my 50th blog post, so I would just like to take the time to thank everyone who has supported me along the way. It truly means the entire world, and I wouldn't be doing it without you.

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Extracting Color

Happy Monday, everyone! As you have probably gathered, this has been a huge summer for me. It's been the summer of change, realization, understanding - the list goes on. Very recently, I came to the conclusion that there are just too many distractions in my life. Think about it, every day we are presented with something: our phones, notifications, advertising branded on every single thing we look at, patterns, colors - it's A LOT. In an effort to bring more peace and relaxation into my life, I've decided to remove some of that. Another thing you should know about me is that when I am in a time of distress or crisis, I participate in a giant purge. What I mean by purge, is I throw out a grotesque amount of things. Keep in mind, I'm not doing so in an unhealthy manner - I think it's just my brain's way of telling me it's time to declutter my environment, thus decluttering my mind (as best as I can). The first thing that I thought of during my "purge" was my closet. There are so many things I have been looking at on a daily basis that I haven't touched in years. First of all, it's a pain having to dig through that stuff every day, because I then end up forgetting about the stuff I actually do like. Secondly, I never realized how claustrophobic I felt being surrounded by so many things I don't use. So my resolution: GET RID OF IT ALL (and give what I don't want to my friends. These pieces were once cherished, after all! I want to see them in good hands!) Another realization I came to is that I rarely wear colors. I thought this was a fall/winter phase, but I realized more and more this summer that bright colors really just aren't my thing anymore. I think colors are summer-appropriate, I just don't like them on myself. Neutrals are my comfort zone and allow me to be more of a minimalist - something I'm really embracing this upcoming school year. Neutrals give a more chic, put-together look, and I'm all about that right now. while I mentioned that I don't like colors, I do still love darker shades, such as: maroon, plum, navy, olive, etc. I would get pretty bored with just straight black and white, but I like having some hues throughout the color spectrum - just dark versions! Denim, of course, is an exception because it can be truthfully worn with any single thing on this planet. So there you have it, my new wardrobe. Truly, Taylor Have you made any major changes to your closet? What was your inspiration?

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