Emily Bode 4/7/18 Emily Bode 4/7/18

Then & Now: The difference 4 years can make

2014 | 2018

The picture on the left is from 2014 for an Unfancy guest blogger submission and on the right from 2018 last week for Spring10x10. Unfancy is the capsule wardrobe blog that inspired me to start a capsule of my own that year. I didn't get the gig but got the sweetest "no" I've ever received. I just looked back at our email correspondence and oy! I was a bit pushy to connect. Even after I was told I didn't get the guest blogger spot I asked Caroline if I could interview her for a blog spotlight series I was doing. Then I got the second sweetest "no" I've ever received.

IMG_2447-2 — The only thing I still have from this photo is my Cuyana bag & this Lake Superior agate necklace I made.

No's are an opportunity and mostly not personal. I kept applying for other guest submissions and getting No's until I got Yes's. Soon after applying to Unfancy, I had two articles published in Driftless Magazine. I'm not saying this to brag but to share an example of how No made way for Yes.

“I’m rooting for you — like a maniac. And I think you should keep putting your particular flavor of good out there — the world needs it.”

— Caroline Joy of Unfancy

See, the sweetest right? I wasn't the right fit at the time. I now see my outfit and photo quality weren't that inspiring. However, those weren't reasons to quit writing and exploring my personal style, even though I was tempted to at first.

Through trial and error, I found what I liked wardrobe-wise. I also kept going with my blog visuals and tweaking things here and there. I don't shoot lower than me anymore and have a mini tripod with a remote for my camera phone for ease. My understanding of natural light has improved and I've taught myself how to use some Lightroom presets.

I suppose what I'm trying to say is this "Then & Now" photo is a testament to keep going. If we don't look up once in awhile we miss how far we've come in pursuit of how much further we think we need to be. You don't know what you don't know until you know it. And that comes with patience, perseverance, and most of all, time.

Do you know what's really crazy? Four years after my guest blogger submission, I stumble upon a 10x10 wardrobe challenge Unfancy co-hosts with Style Bee. At the end of the 10 days, Caroline shares my winter10x10 on her Instagram. That same day I receive 350 new friends who share a similar passion for capsule wardrobes as I do.

An old No turned into a new Yes.

You just never know how things will play out. But you have to stay in the game to find out. With all the tough yet delicate Love I can muster, Em

PS: I'm selling that camera from above right now for $150+shipping [SOLD].

Emily Bode 4/4/18 Emily Bode 4/4/18

Spring 10×10: Halfway Point

Halfway there! This is the part of the challenge where more creativity has to happen because everything's been worn at least once.

Day 4 | I wore this to work at the coffee shop. The striped tee is my shirt dress. I was able to front tuck it in without it being too bulky because of the high waist. Adding the long jacket helped to not tuck anything in the back. Have I mentioned how much I love these flare jeans yet? They're an instant fave & the $2 price tag continues to have me in awe!

Striped shirt dress (Target) | Long denim jacket (gifted) | Dark flare denim (thrifted) | Block-heeled boots

Day 5 | My favorite dress-up outfit so far! I love how these pants fit and the looser shape. The fuzzy sweater came in clutch for these chilly days and braiding my hair kept it out of my face when it hailed & rained. I've been playing with different hairstyles and lip color as well because I like how that compliments a look. I wore this for date night with my Love to the bakery down the street.

White-collar button-up (Madewell) | Crewneck sweater (Target) | High-waisted green trousers (Gap) | Block-heeled boots

The first 3 looks / My 10 capsule items

Day 6 | I worked from home all day so I didn't get ready until later. I love the copper buttons so I knotted my button up to show them off a bit and added my blush pink neck scarf. Chilly for the weather but I'm boycotting the snow by acting like it isn't happening. Which really means I'm just cold but whatever. :P I added a jacket and scarf for playing darts with some friends at the pub at night.

White-collar button-up (Madewell) | Gray washed jeans (Celebrity Pink) | Block-heeled boots

Spring 10x10: Halfway Point

Admittedly I've been discontent this 10x10. I was so AMPED for the winter10x10 and was anticipating the same reaction this time but I think it's for 3 main reasons: 1. I'm in the middle of 2 big deadlines for a branding project (think: tall building) and event design (think: an uber-detailed build) so my focus is there. 2. There aren't many items in my Spring capsule that feel like ME. 3. The picture quality of my looks isn't great. I know that's not the point of this challenge but I take pride in having things how I envision them. Quality has been sacrificed for the reasons above and also because we moved so I don't have my new photo spot down yet. :)

I kind of like the super grainy look though. It's visually showing how imperfect and messy things can be so I like the message the Universe is sending me! Also to keep going with something even if it isn't perfect. No need to quit. At some point you just have to send it, right?! & be happy with what you created even if it misses your nearly impossible mark of quality. You might never reach that & that's ok because you're amazing & worthy anyway.

I've been so inspired by the #10x10friends looks though! The way people are layering and the colors they're wearing are just so good. Follow along on Instagram for some Spring inspiration with the #spring10x10 hashtag.

What are your favorite brands for shirt dresses &/or sweaters?

Emily Bode 4/1/18 Emily Bode 4/1/18

Spring 10×10: The first 3 days

Day 1 | I wore this to a casual meeting downtown and will definitely be wearing it again. It's super simple with a sweater and ripped jeans. I like the lighter denim (got them at Urban Found in Holland) with ivory and light tan booties. Even though it's still cold this outfit got me in the mood for Spring!

Ivory sweater (Urban Outfitters) | Gray washed jeans (Celebrity Pink) | Perforated leather booties

Day 2 | Definitely took a look from my Mom's playbook with this outfit. The top used to be my mom's and I found these flare jeans for $2 in the bargain bin at Rock, Paper, Scissors! I had them altered but I wish I would've gotten them a bit shorter. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about this light blush color with my winter skin – I thought I'd look too washed out. But I actually love the tone on tone. It feels delicate and feminine with some subtle bell sleeves.

Blush blouse (gifted) | Dark flare denim (thrifted) | Block-heeled boots

Day 3 | For a cozy Sunday I put on my ivory sweater again with navy trousers and loafers. I originally picked these trousers for some work meetings coming up but I like how casual they can be! I even wore this to walk Tiger and regretted it...still too cold! It was perfect for a couple of episodes of Nashville with Joel on the couch though.

Ivory sweater (Urban Outfitters) | Navy trousers (Zara) | Caramel loafers

This season's 10x10 feels so different than last season. Maybe it's because we've been moving all weekend so wearing my first 3 outfits with a different backdrop & lighting has created additional challenges. Or maybe it's because I struggle most with Spring style. Balancing lighter hues with cold weather doesn't come naturally to me. I like warm or cold, not this in-between. I'm pretty black and white that way. :P

I'm definitely going for casual vibes this challenge and accessorizing very little for simplicity so I'm liking what's coming from that. I'll be back in a few days with my outfits on days 4 – 6. In the meantime check out the #spring10x10 hashtag on Instagram. I love seeing how everyone is styling their items. There's a lot of brighter neutrals like rust, bright pink, and marigold and some springy patterns that are inspiring me!

How do you balance the cold and celebration of Spring in your wardrobe? Any tips?!

Emily Bode 3/28/18 Emily Bode 3/28/18

Spring 10x10: My 10 capsule items

Spring is here! Time to do my second 10x10 challenge. It starts tomorrow March 30th put on by Lee, Caroline, and this time special co-host designer Elizabeth Suzann. The challenge is to create 10 outfits from 10 items for 10 days in a row. More details here.

I discovered a lot about my style from the Winter 10x10 so I'm excited to see what this one will bring. I'm doing lighter tones for Spring but still have warm layering pieces picked out because Spring in Michigan is deceiving. It looks warm outside but it definitely isn't! Weather's calling for 30-40° temps with a mix of rain, snow, and wind over the next 10 days and I HATE being cold. I think I found a good compromise with my selections though.

My palette inspiration

I had an inspired palette this time thanks to a recent Spring shoot for Joon+Co with Sincerely Ashley; blush, sage, and ivory tones. I have NO black but doing a darker pair of bootcut denim and trousers and almost no patterns. I've found I like mixing textures more than patterns. It seems to give the most simple of outfits more depth.

Here's a sneak peek of some looks I'm planning. I'm using Stylebook app to organize and document everything this time. It tracks cost per wear and has a calendar to plan ahead of time. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND it if you're looking for a way to organize and see different options. I'm so glad Tieka and Megan shared it with me a while ago. I could do an entire post about this app alone, haha, but I'll save that for another time!

My 10 selections

My next 10 days is a lot of design time in the studio and a few meetings or weekend plans so it'll be more casual than the winter 10x10. New items I'll be wearing are a pair of block-heeled boots from Target, gray-washed jeans, and the denim bootcuts I have to pick up from being altered. I got those bad boys for $2 in a bargain bin! I can't WAIT to wear them in a couple of outfits this challenge. Not counting shoes or outerwear again but I did sneak a jacket in this time. I'm trying little by little. Here are my spring 10x10 pieces:

4 Tops

White-collar button-up (Madewell)
Fuzzy crewneck sweater (Target)
Ivory sweater (Urban Outfitters)
Blush blouse (gifted)

4 Bottoms

Gray washed jeans (Celebrity Pink)
Navy trousers (Zara)
High-waisted green trousers (Gap)
Dark bootcut denim (thrifted)

1 Dress

Striped shirt dress (Target)

1 Jacket

Long denim jacket (gifted)

Spring 10x10 starts Friday, March 30th

I'd love it if you'd join me! You can make it as involved or laidback as you want it to be. The community is the main reason I do this challenge because everyone is supportive and can get fresh ideas for your wardrobe! I'll be on Instagram showing daily looks in my stories and more in-depth posts every few days here so make sure to follow on Instagram! If you post a photo, tag it with these hashtags for 10 chances to win a $100 gift card to Elizabeth Suzann: #ES10x10 #spring10x10 #10x10friends

Let's do this chicas (and chicos)!

Emily Bode 3/5/18 Emily Bode 3/5/18

Winter Capsule 2018: Neutrals for my (hopefully someday) studio

We're at the point of Winter where the smell of Spring is in the air but we're not quite there yet. Last week we had a tease of warmth and sunshine. All the snow melted and I kid you not, everywhere I went people were smiling and had more energy than I've seen for months, myself included. I'm so grateful we made it through February!

For some reason, February was especially challenging this year. I couldn't seem to stop being hard on myself about my business, our marriage, family time, etc. I definitely lean towards being too hard on myself and the long, dark, cold days made it difficult to get out of the funk I was in. However, light can be found in the dark days. I've spent most of them dreaming about the studio I'd like to have one day.

After hanging out at the new E + L Salon in Eastown with my friend and photographer Colette, I started to realize what I'd like in a studio space of my own. The salon has large windows to let the natural light in and this great reclaimed wood bar where I sketched with my coffee.

Erin, one of the owners of E+L, had the space so cozy with coffee brewing and a delicious-smelling candle burning. The overall feel of the salon is instantly inviting with the owners and what they stand for. I cuddled right in while Colette and I shot a few outfits and chatted about our work, goals, and websites.

One of my goals is to show you guys more outfits from my capsule wardrobe and how it can work for a freelance career lifestyle. I dress for a myriad of things because no 2 days look the same. I often pull inspiration from the projects I'm working on to get dressed. It helps put me in a fresh state of mind for the things I'm making.

I've had this knee-length sweater from Zara for a few years. I always pull it out this time of year because it's Spring-y with lightweight fabric but still long-sleeved for warmth. I LOVE its neutral color and the high slits up the sides. I'm not sure why but when I wear it Superpower by Beyoncé pops into my head. Outfits are NOT THE SAME, at all. Like I said, I’m dreaming.

Function with comfort for meetings and creating

Pairing it with faux leather leggings, black booties, and gold jewelry elevates a functional and comfortable look for a lunch meeting or heads down creating day. It's essentially leggings and a sweater but the materials and cuts make it more refined. And now I realize those are the same things I hope to have in my own studio someday; functional and comfortable with rich materials and classic lines. A warm cup of coffee for any guest or client who walks in and a cozy candle to make my space inviting.

What does your dream studio look like? What work do you dream of doing there?

Here's to hoping, Em

Outfit details:

Knee-length sweater (similar)
Faux leather leggings (similar)
Booties (Jessica Simpson – similar)
Hat (thrifted)

Photos by The Lipstick Lens

Emily Bode 2/14/18 Emily Bode 2/14/18

Winter Capsule 2018: Dazey LA Graphic tee

Winter Capsule 2018: Dazey LA graphic tee

I don't usually consider tees a winter wardrobe piece because I hate being cold. However, pairing a cute graphic tee with fleece pants and a crisp blazer changes things.

I paired my Dazey LA tee with buffalo check bottoms because I like the looser type graphic with the more rigid check pattern. I've found I don't like matching exactly yet like using same color families. A little quirky because I'm a little quirky.

Layering with a collared button-up and blazer dresses up the tee a bit. I could wear this to a fun client meeting or art directing a photoshoot. These pants are SO warm and soft. They're pajama pants I found for $12 on clearance at Madewell Chicago last Summer and they've been hanging out in my Winter Capsule ever since. Don't you just think WINTER. CABIN. BONFIRE. when you look at them?!

Winter Capsule: Dazey LA graphic tee

This outfit makes me think of how my brother and I always used to be in costume of some sort growing up. One day we'd be soldiers in the jungle with our puffy green vests and war paint and the next we were clowns practicing for our circus debut (side note: I hate real circus', I will NEVER go).

Dressing fun and quirky is my way of wearing rose-colored glasses in this world. Of acknowledging the light and play. I've been called naive, innocent, and flat out gullible for my rosy-tinted perspective. I actually lost $16 to a panhandler a few weeks ago because of it. He had a really good story in my defense.

See the world through rosé colored glasses

After that incident, I think it's less expensive to have a more skeptical view. But I also think it's a constant battle to stay positive. There are so many things happening around us, to us, and to the people in our close circles that are extremely painful, challenging, and evil. And some days the rosy hue is most definitely storm clouds of gray.

Getting back to the lightness and brightness is a battle worth fighting for.

We're a long way from perfection but I do hope for progress. And when I'm deep in the dumps I try to remember the good things amidst the heavy. Like, the sun came out yesterday. Did you see it? I'm reading a book about the moons. He made me brussels sprouts and got me rosé because he noticed I was out. And my momma asked me to be her Valentine. These are good things friends, let's say them out loud.

What's one thing that was AWESOME for you this week?!

If you're feeling rosy or need a little visual reminder use the code BODE at checkout for 10% off your order: Dazey LA xo, Em

Outfit details:

Graphic tee (Dazey LA)
White collared shirt (Madewell)
Buffalo check pajama pants (Madewell – sold out)
Blazer (thrifted)
Beret (gifted)
Booties (Jessica Simpson – similar)

Photos by The Lipstick Lens

Emily Bode 2/4/18 Emily Bode 2/4/18

Winter Capsule 2018: Yoga pants for working from home

Winter Capsule 2018: Yoga Pants

Promise I'm not sitting in my bed working on my computer all day. But I can't promise I'm not wearing yoga pants while working all day. It's called athleisure.

Do any other work-from-homer's have the daily challenge of getting ready? The Winter 10x10 I did last month helped get me out of this funk but it's easy to fall back into. Especially if you have a service-based career and are on email and in design software all day. Some days I'm 3 coffees deep and have responded to all client inquiries yet failed to brush my hair. How does that happen?!

Winter Capsule 2018: Leggings from the Aerie Chill. Play. Move Collection, #aeriereal | Brave Girl blog | photo by Leigh Ann Cobb Photography

Tip: Get yoga pants in different colors

This is where yoga pants come in. I believe you can wear them and still be productive and creative. My tip? DON'T GET BLACK. I really like the Aerie Chill. Play. Move. collection for their style and color options. Plus they're not super tight like other brands I've tried. I'm looking to have 1 more pair in a different color (put in a Valentine's Day plug to Joel for these. No shame.) These ones are in Deep Plum.

Tip: Wear soft-soled shoes

The other tip? WEAR SHOES. It seems silly to wear shoes when working from home but it gets me in a productive mode required to accomplish daily tasks. I consistently hear from creatives looking to go freelance that they don't think they're disciplined enough to stay focused and hit client deadlines while at home. I'm not saying wearing shoes will fix this – there are personalities that simply work better in solo settings vs. groups – I'm just saying when you're in the blahs you have to do silly things to convince your mind YOU WILL GET SHIT DONE.

Sometimes shoes are the answer. I like moccasins because they're comfortable with soles to feel more like shoes instead of slippers.

I like pairing a graphic tee with them. This long-sleeved Tribe tee has been in my capsule for a few years. I'm VERY picky about typefaces and kerning so it takes me a while to choose. Once I do though, I keep 'em around for a while.

When your closet compliments your lifestyle, you can focus on the fun projects at hand.

Casual style for working from home

I definitely don't wear this yoga pants/graphic tee/moccasin combo for client meetings, press checks, or networking events. At the top of the week and near the end, I plan design time for projects and tackle odds and ends that inevitably pile up when I'm head down creating the rest of the week (taxes anyone?! bah).

That's what this outfit is perfect for. It's also an easy transition for going to lunchtime yoga or walking Tiger. Add a couple of layers, switch out moccasins for sneakers and I'm out the door in five minutes. My style has a lot to do with practicality.

Recommended resource: Free capsule planner by Caroline of Unfancy blog

Self-care in February, join me?

Having a capsule wardrobe has been an ongoing form of self-care for me. As I mentioned here, clothing is emotional, and emotional well-being is important to your success. I'm SO rationalizing getting a new pair of yoga pants, aren't I?

But really when I went full-time freelance last summer I did it on the condition that self-care would be a priority. If I'm not taking care of my well-being, how am I supposed to show up for clients, projects, relationships, and family successfully?

As creatives who love to give we need to remember to give the love to ourselves as well.

So our tanks aren't so empty we turn into design monsters running over every unkerned graphic tee in our path. I'll be sharing a tip each week this month to help infuse self-care into your days if you're needing a little midwinter pick-me-up.

What are some self-care things you do to keep the monsters away? Post a photo or story on Instagram using #iamlovingme and show me. I'd love to add more self-care options to my list as well! xo, Em

Outfit details:

High-waisted legging in Deep Plum (Aerie – similar with pockets for 30% off)
Graphic tee (The Bloomerie)
Moccasins (gifted)
Eyeglasses in Marzipan Tortoise (Warby Parker)

Photos by Leigh Ann Cobb

Emily Bode 2/3/18 Emily Bode 2/3/18

Winter 10×10: Fave looks + insights

Winter 10x10 2018 Recap | Emily Bode blog

Winter 10X10 Challenge Recap

It is complete friends, I've finished my first 10x10 challenge by Style Bee x Unfancy! Here's a recap of my favorite and least favorite outfits and what I learned wearing 10 items for 10 days in a row. I didn't count shoes, outerwear, or accessories as part of my 10 items. It allowed the outfits to look different enough so I wasn't ever bored. I'll probably challenge myself this Spring to limit shoe and accessory count though.

Winter 10x10: Day 6 Polka Dot Thursday | Halfway Point | Emily Bode blog

My favorite outfit: Day 6

Polka Dot Thursday is something I would've never styled if it wasn't for this challenge pushing me out of my comfort zone (AKA black skinnies with everything). I loved the silhouette created between the skirt and collared shirt and how it transitioned from day to night (leather jacket and hair down). It revived this skirt from 2 years ago I've barely worn and inspired looks for the end of winter and spring that I'm excited to wear. I tried wearing it again for day 10 but the weather got in the way!

Runner up: Day 4 and 7

Most worn item: 10" High-rise black skinny jeans (Madewell)

Winter 10x10: Day 2 Sunday Brunch | The first 3 days of outfits | Emily Bode blog

My least favorite outfit: Day 2

Sunday Brunch fit the vibe for a rainy Sunday but when I look back at all 10 looks, I'm not feeling it. The first thing I think of is how uncomfortable these tights were. Granted I had them on backward and didn't know until after we got back from brunch. This outfit confirmed I'm not a casual dress person. Especially not in the winter. I'm mostly pure function and don't want my legs cold. I'm keeping this dress because it's warm and I love the color but don't plan on wearing it out much again.

Runner up: Day 9

Winter 10x10: Day 5 WFH Wednesday | Halfway Point | Emily Bode blog

MVP Item: Cable-knit sweater

Not only did I start and finish the challenge with this cable-knit sweater but when it got hard (days 7-9) this was the item I kept trying to turn to. It's cozy and slouchy yet has a great shape and texture. I've been on a search for the perfect sweater for 2 years and found it at Goodwill this season. I'm glad I held out for it.

Runner up: Black mock neck sweater

Reader favorite: Perforated Leather Booties (similar)

Winter 10x10: Day 9 Road Trip Sunday | Last 4 Days | Emily Bode blog

LVP Item: Gray cardigan

We knew this was going to happen, right? I mentioned when choosing my 10 items I didn't think it'd get much wear. It didn't until day 9 and only because I hadn't worn it yet. I love the length and large pockets, it's the color I don't like. I gave it to a friend who's going to rock it with her great style so it's still a win-win.

Runner up: White-collar button-up (for comfort and worn out)

Winter 10x10: Day 4 Tuesday Lunch | Halfway Point | Emily Bode blog

Top Takeaway: Clothing is emotional

Of all the lessons I wanted to share with you about these last 10 days, a more important theme came to the forefront. Clothing is emotional.

“Vain trifles as they seem, clothes have, they say, more important offices than to merely keep us warm. They change our view of the world and the world’s view of us.”

— Virginia Woolf

It's amazing what happens when intention drives the clothing we wear. Until starting my capsule I never did this. It was a big guessing game speckled with fitting room freakouts like why is this not working how it's supposed to?!

I'm convinced of the value an intentional wardrobe can bring to your life, especially after this challenge. We deserve to feel good and confident as we go about our days. And if our clothing helps with that, then all the better.

I'm planning on doing a Spring 10x10 challenge next. I hope you'll join me if the timing feels right for you. In the meantime check out the #winter10x10 posts on Instagram. The community around this challenge was so uplifting and inspirational. Thank you for following along, more capsule chats to come!

Would you do a closet challenge? What's your favorite winter item and how do you style it?

Emily Bode 1/29/18 Emily Bode 1/29/18

Winter 10×10: Last 4 days

I really started to get into my groove the last 4 days. After wearing most everything once the first half it was fun to mix up the pieces and try them in different ways. Here are my outfits for Day 7 – 10 (see the first 3 days, halfway point, and what the Winter 10x10 challenge is).

Winter 10x10: Day 7 Game Time Friday | Last 4 Days | Emily Bode blog

Game Time Friday | I wore this buffalo check shirt (similar) with leather jacket (similar) and jeans, adding the hat after listening to The Avett Brothers as I got ready. I thought I'd be too dressed up for my dad's game (he coaches varsity basketball) but the spirit section was dressed country as a joke to the opposing team. Ironically I fit in with students more than I ever have thanks to this look, haha. We went to a brewery to celebrate his win afterward. A Friday very well spent. :)

Buffalo check button-up (gifted) | High-rise slim boy jeans (Madewell) | Booties (similar) | Hat (similar) | Leather jacket (similar)

Winter 10x10: Day 8 Sandra Dee Saturday | Last 4 Days | Emily Bode blog

Winter10x10 challenge: Day 8 Sandra Dee Saturday | Days 7–10 | Brave Girl blog

Sandra Dee Saturday | My Mom got me this polka dot bandana before I wore my Day 6 Polka Dot Thursday outfit and gifted it to me this weekend. It's eerie how connected she and I can be! So I HAD to do a bandana again as it complimented my sneakers perfectly. I felt like a worse singing and more casual version of Olivia Newton John in Grease all day. I loved the all-black look with a bit of color and pattern. Casual for a Saturday hopping around town with my Mom looking at vintage home decor and getting a few new vinyls.

Black mock neck sweater (thrifted) | 10″ High-rise black skinny jeans (Madewell) | Sneakers (Veja) | Bandana (gifted) | Leather jacket (similar)

Sunday Road Trip | It was a drinking coffee until 2pm kind of Sunday so this look got half its wear. This was the FIRST time the entire challenge I wore this gray cardigan which is a sign to me that it needs to go in the Goodwill pile (unless anyone wants it?!). The color is why I avoided the entire challenge because I LOVE the fit. Probably why I've kept it so long without wearing it much. Any good ideas on where to find similar without a cool gray tone? Either way, this look was comfortable yet structured enough to feel put together as we made the trek back home after a great weekend with my parents.

White-collar button-up (thrifted) | Gray sleeveless cardigan with pockets (similar) | High-rise slim boy jeans (Madewell) | Wedges (Toms – similar)

Winter 10x10: Day 10 Press Check Monday | Last 4 Days | Emily Bode blog

Press Check Monday | My final outfit! It really doesn't surprise me that I went back to my tried and true for the last day – cozy sweater and comfy skinnies. I planned to wear this sweater with the suede skirt until I woke to SNOW and said F that. The outfit was spot on for a morning press check and co-work time with my friends Kherington and Ashley that I'm about to head out to soon! Never did I think I'd pair a beret with my duck boots but alas that is what this challenge about, yes? To surprise yourself and try things you normally wouldn't.

Ivory sweater (thrifted) | 10″ High-rise black skinny jeans (Madewell) | Boots (Sorel - similar) | Beret (similar) | Earrings (Lee & Birch)

Well, my friends, this is the end of the challenge. I'm a bit sad, it's consumed me in the best of ways. I'll be back with a recap of my findings and all 10 looks a bit later this week. Thank you for cheering me on and providing feedback these last 10 days. It's reenergizing to know I'm not alone and to be inspired by my wardrobe and others' outfits! Check them out on Instagram: #10x10friends

Would you be interested in a Spring 10x10 challenge when the weather gets better?! Comment below!

Emily Bode 1/24/18 Emily Bode 1/24/18

Winter 10×10: Halfway point

Woowee! I wasn't expecting the response from you guys with this challenge and I'm so grateful for your feedback, questions, and cheering me on. We're over halfway there! Here are my outfits for Day 4–6.

See Days 1-3 and what the Winter 10x10 challenge is.

Tuesday Lunch | I really liked the versatility of this look for lunch with a friend to chat about freelance and client meetings in the afternoon. At home, I wore the collared shirt without a cardigan. I liked wearing my bandana as a headband but it kept falling off. Good for events but not the entire day – I don't like fussy.

Style question: How do you style a bandana or wear headbands?

Neutral patterned sleeveless cardigan (similar) | White-collar button-up (thrifted) | 10″ High-rise black skinny jeans (Madewell) | Booties (similar) | Bandana (Madewell)

WFH Wednesday | Bah. Tried a bandana with the knot underneath because I REALLY wanted to push my hair back without having to do a ponytail. It held better this way. Sweater and skinnies were THE BEST combo for working from home. I had a last second client visit and stopped into a new space to pitch a photoshoot so my blush pink sneaks came in handy too. Ankles were a bit cold but worth it to feel like I had my shit together when walking Tiger around the neighborhood at sunset.

Style question: How do you take care of sweaters? I know the dryer is BAD for them but I'm lazy. What do you do to hold the shape without expensive dry-cleaning?

Ivory sweater (thrifted)10″ High-rise black skinny jeans (Madewell) | Sneakers (Veja) | Bandana (Madewell) | Computer glasses (Kimball in Marzipan Tortoise by Warby Parker)

Polka Dot Thursday | I LOVE this look! It falls into the fussy category (more than 3 layers) but the long shirt with skirt created a lower waistline that made me feel Cable Girls kind of fancy. The polka dots and collar necklace added to this vibe. It's good to get dressed up for no reason sometimes! Fortunately, I had 2 good reasons; the CreativeMornings GR event I went to and now date night with Joel. We're going to a local brewery for dinner and cheers to a good week! I think I'll add my leather jacket (similar) for the occasion.

Style question: What's a sustainable/conscious/slow fashion lingerie brand you love? I've never put much thought into my undergarments but getting a bit fancy today made me start considering it more! Any tips or suggestions?!

It's interesting the topics my outfits have brought up with friends and family because of this challenge. I'm happy it's prompted discussion about capsule wardrobes, our individual styles and observing habits that maybe we've never thought of before. I feel like I've just grazed the surface and am learning SO MUCH about the fashion industry and how we can help as consumers. It truly is deeper than the dress, you know? One more recap to go, then the final look at all 10 together over the next week! My final day should be next Monday. I'm going to attempt Days 7–9 this weekend when visiting my parents. Thanks for joining me on this journey with my wardrobe!

Thoughts? Personal experience with any of these topics? Stories that might guide me? Comment below!

Emily Bode 1/22/18 Emily Bode 1/22/18

Winter 10×10: The first 3 days

The challenge is underway, chicas! Here's a mini-recap of each outfit and what I've discovered so far. More details of what the Winter 10x10 is here.

Winter 10x10: Day 1 Casual Friday | The first 3 days of outfits | Emily Bode blog

Casual Friday | This look feels the most like me. I like being comfy with a bit of structure. The green wedges made it feel put together and I liked the height they added. Also liked the colorful bracelets so it wasn't 100% neutral. I wore this on a work from home day, ran an errand for a client, and to a movie at night with friends.

Style tip: Cuff your pant legs for a more laidback look to your denim.

Ivory sweater (thrifted) | High-rise slim boy jeans (Madewell) | Wedges (Toms - similar) | Bracelets (Lee & Birch)

Sunday Brunch | Found I like mixing patterns that don't match. It was a rainy day but not too cold so I wore the dress with sweater tights, leather jacket, and crocheted scarf to brunch at The Sovengard (so good by the way!). I haven't worn this dress much because I couldn't find a way to style it. I found it's probably because I've never worn it with tights. Problem solved, I love this dress with tights!

Style tip: When mixing patterns, choose another piece in the same color family to make a more cohesive look (ex: black sweater tights with black leather jacket).

Navy plaid shirtdress (similar)| Sweater tights (similar) | Leather jacket (similar) | Scarf (handmade) | Booties (similar)

Winter 10x10: Day 3 Rainy Monday | The first 3 days of outfits | Emily Bode blog

Rainy Monday | Perfect for the rainy cold weather. I went to yoga at lunch so wore this the second half of the day. I'll be wearing it again this season because of its simplicity. I liked the pop of buffalo check pattern to break up the black and had no choice but to go with bright yellow wellies, they're my only pair of rainboots. I like how they brighten up gray days. I'm glad I kept layers in mind when picking my 10 pieces because this look was very warm. I only added a rain jacket when Joel and I grabbed a drink at Brewery Vivant to celebrate a pretty good Monday.

Style tip: Cuff the sleeves of the bottom layer to reveal more pattern.

Black mock neck sweater (thrifted) | Buffalo check button-up (gifted) | 10″ High-rise black skinny jeans (Madewell) | Wellies (Hunter)

So far the challenge is going well. I've mixed a few items I never have before and it's making the winter blahs more fun. I'll be back in a few days with my outfits on days 4 – 6. In the meantime check out the #winter10x10 hashtag on Instagram. I love seeing how everyone is styling their items and their take on the challenge.

What do you wear to make your winter wardrobe a bit more interesting? How do you layer?

Emily Bode 1/17/18 Emily Bode 1/17/18

Winter 10x10 challenge: My 10 capsule items

You may have seen from my Instagram highlights I'm trying out my first 10x10 challenge starting this Friday!

Winter 10x10 Challenge

The basic idea of the Winter10x10 challenge is to pick 10 items of clothing then mix and match them for 10 business days in a row. The guidelines from Lee of Style Bee (the creator of the challenge) lay out more details here. For example, jewelry, accessories, or shoes don't have to count as part of the 10 pieces (and in my case outerwear and boots because snow is definitely in the forecast). You can make it as challenging or relaxed as you want.

Pick any 10 items from your current closet
Style those items into 10 different looks
Use 10 days to do it.
Have fun & don’t take it too seriously!

It's basically a fun way to discover more about your style. Also good ff you're considering a capsule wardrobe but aren't sure if you're ready for it or not. Like practice for a capsule wardrobe. I spent about 30 minutes picking out my pieces. Keeping in mind the weather forecast, meetings, and events I have planned for the next 10 days. I also tried a couple of outfits to confirm certain pieces could last multiple outfits in 10 days.

My 10 selections

I don't have photos of the exact pieces yet (some are thrifted or I've had for years!) so I've curated items from brands I love below and then listed out what I plan to wear. I decided not to include shoes or outerwear, in addition to jewelry and accessories, for my first challenge. With snow in the forecast, I just couldn't justify using 2 slots for boots when I'd rather use them for layers, which is why I have more tops selected.

6 Tops

White collar button up (thrifted)
Ivory sweater (thrifted)
Black mock neck sweater (thrifted)
Buffalo check button-up (gifted)
Neutral patterned sleeveless cardigan (Lucky brand from Marshall's)
Gray sleeveless cardigan with pockets (Marshall's)

1 Dress

Navy plaid shirtdress (Francesca's) OR navy patterned sweater dress (JCPenny)

3 Bottoms

10" High-rise black skinny jeans (Madewell)
High-rise slim boy jeans (Madewell)
Tan suede knee-length skirt (JBandMe)

I wonder about the gray cardigan because lately, I've been avoiding it (too gray, too blah) so I'm curious to see if this challenge revives that or if it's time to move on.

I added the suede skirt to challenge myself because I like it yet it doesn't get much wear. Also leaning towards a plaid shirtdress instead of a sweater dress but I have a few meetings where the plaid shirtdress might feel too casual.

Excited to start on Friday! Tag me in your #winter10x10 posts if you're doing it too so I can see your daily outfits! I'll be sharing mine in my Instagram stories so add me here if you want to follow along.

Have you ever done a 10x10 challenge or something similar with your wardrobe?

Photos by Leigh Ann Cobb

Emily Bode 1/14/18 Emily Bode 1/14/18

Winter Capsule 2018: The wool coat I found for $10

Winter Capsule 2018: Wool coat

Hello! I've been in MAJOR reflection mode (maybe a little too much) since the New Year. I really like this time of year to reflect on the last year and my hopes for the upcoming one. I've realized it takes me about a month to get back into the swing of things and I'm trying to be ok with that. One thing I've been focusing on is my winter capsule 2018 wardrobe.

Winter Capsule 2018: thrifted wool coat | Brave Girl Spirit blog | photo by Leigh Ann Cobb Photography

New: Capsule Wardrobe posts

I'm bringing a new topic to this space and eliminating some that no longer speak to me. Thanks to those of you who completed my reader survey to help me with this! It's so good to get out of your own head.

Capsule Wardrobe for the Seasons

So a topic I'll be digging deeper into is my Capsule Wardrobe. I've had one for 4 years now! There are different definitions for capsule wardrobes (my faves here and here) but for me, a capsule wardrobe is a set of guidelines to organize your closet and discover your own personal style (guidelines being the keyword).

I was talking to some friends about this as I was hesitant about sharing, but they made a good point. While a capsule might not be for everybody it's an interesting perspective about personal style worth sharing.

A capsule wardrobe is a set of guidelines to organize your closet and discover your own personal style.

As a designer, I believe it's crucial to be confident about yourself and your work. For me, it's hard to feel confident in meetings or at network events when I'm not comfortable with what I'm wearing. If I can't believe in me, how will potential clients who don't know me that well yet believe in me? So I'm hoping this can help you too if you're looking to refresh your wardrobe or update it a bit to feel more like you.

One of the best things I found about starting a capsule is understanding what my style is and growing into it. College was a mish-mash of tight and short items from F21 sales racks and prior to that, it was a lot of sportswear. Not the cute athleisure kind either. More like swimming in jerseys and sweatpants as an athlete.

After 4 years of about 55 items per season (including accessories + shoes!), I'm ready to shift the guidelines a bit to purchase conscious clothing options when I can. I need to be clear that I DO still buy clothing from places like Target, Marshalls, Anthro, Nordstrom, and other fast fashion brands so don't be thinking I'm some purist. But I'm making an effort to limit it in the name of slow fashion, essentialism, and having a smaller carbon footprint.

Winter Capsule 2018: Wool coat

Another way to limit fast fashion purchases is by thrifting. I used to go thrift shopping with my Mom ALL THE TIME. We still swap and trade clothing when we visit each other. In fact, she has her eye on this wool cape I was twirling around in this winter before the snow started flying. I'm not ready to hand it over yet though.

I found it 3 years ago at an estate sale across the street from the greenhouse I worked at. It was squeezed in between big shoulder pads and old prom dresses in unflattering shapes. When I saw the corner of this tan wool fabric I knew I found a diamond in the rough. I snagged it for under $10!

It has a couple of buttons near the top so I wear it both buttoned or unbuttoned depending on the weather. There's so much fabric to it that it's super warm. The subtle texture and fringe at the bottom are what I love most about it.

I often style it with an ivory or cream sweater and jeans with wedges for a more casual look but I loved adding a bold neutral pattern like these high waist trousers to change it up a bit.

Winter 10x10 Challenge

I've added links to similar items below if you want to try out this look too! But what I think would be even better is if you'd join me in a Winter 10x10 Challenge starting this Friday, January 19.

It's the first time I've ever done one and I'm excited about the challenge! 10 pieces of clothing over 10 days...in the dead cold of a Michigan winter. What can I say? I'm in hibernation mode and want to do something fun to reenergize my winter wardrobe. More details from the challenge host Lee of Style Bee right here. You definitely don't need a capsule wardrobe to do this. It actually might be good practice to decide if a capsule wardrobe is for you by doing it for a shorter time period like this.

Comment below if you want to join or have any questions about capsules. And be sure to tag me in the comments of your #winter10x10 photos so I know you're along for the ride. xo friends, Em

Wool cape (thrifted) similar here
Sweater (similar)
Boots (similar)
Eyeglasses in Marzipan Tortoise
Buffalo Check High Waist Trousers, Mini Crescent Lune Necklace c/o Joon+Co

Photos by Leigh Ann Cobb

Emily Bode 11/19/17 Emily Bode 11/19/17

Joon+Co Style: Buffalo Check and Balance

Joon+Co Style: Buffalo check pants and moon-inspired necklace

It's no surprise I'm a big lover of the Moon and symbolic meanings. I put this Joon+Co outfit together as winter Capsule Wardrobe inspiration for the very same reason. The buffalo check high waist pants and mini crescent lune necklace have a lot of meaning in this season of my life.

Are you familiar with yin and yang? It's the Tao philosophy's symbol for wholeness and balance. It's a circle made up of equal parts black and white. It symbolizes the balance of dark and light within our spirits and is necessary to live. Think the crest of the wave and the trough of it or how the day slowly turns into night. You cannot have one without the other.

Until now, a yin yang choker necklace was the closest I'd been to this philosophy of balance (90's babe...tell me you had one?!).

Joon+Co Style: Buffalo check pants and moon-inspired necklace | Winter Capsule Wardrobe | Brave Girl blog

“We all have both dark and light within us. It’s the dance between them that makes life worth living. Too much light creates deep and dark shadows...”

— New Moon in Scorpio reading by Cathy Pagano

We're taught to fear the dark shadow sides of life and only focus on the bright and positive. Sometimes bright and positive are used as an avoidance tactic to Truth. Acknowledging yin in a healthy way can be healing. It can open you up to feel the brightness of yang in a deeper way.

A balance of both yin and yang is required.

It's the reason I love these buffalo check pants. Equal parts dark and light. Areas of muted tones overlap to create a peaceful compromise between threads of black and white.

Isn't the moon, too, an example of this balance?

The way she waxes and wanes to keep emotions flowing in a way that is therapeutic instead of toxic. It's why my luna-loving heart enjoys this mini crescent lune necklace. A dainty detail reminding me of the importance of each phase when the clouds roll in. May we do our best to respect the waxing and waning of light in our life, as painful and beautiful as that can be.

Winter capsule wardrobe inspiration

I want my wardrobe to support me as this season of slowness and cooler temps rolls in. The winter season is notorious for playing tricks on our minds. Telling us the light may never return and we'll be in this darkness forever.

So, a love note. To you and to me.

Let's pull this letter back out in February, yes?: Let us face the darkness with perseverance and patience, holding tight in faith that the light will come 'round soon. On the darkest of days when we don't believe this to be true, let us be reminded of the truth of yin and yang – dark needs light, and this is how it's always been. Stay warm. xo, Em

PS: Join Joon+Co's mailing list for early access to 40% off Black Friday sales & fun Cyber Monday deals.

Outfit details:

Buffalo Check High Waist Pants & Mini Crescent Lune Necklace c/o Joon+Co
Sweater (similar)
Moto jacket (similar)
Heels
Sunglasses (similar)
Sequin hat (thrifted)

Photos by Leigh Ann Cobb

Emily Bode 10/25/17 Emily Bode 10/25/17

Anthropologie Style: Not Our Mothers' Pantsuit

Not Our Mothers' Pantsuit | Anthropologie #anthrostyle | Brave Girl Design + Blog

Anthropologie Style: A work outfit with a story

I grew up playing with my mother's old briefcase. Digging for the treasures of her success as she rushed to the office in her black pantsuit and short hair styled modestly. Her old driver’s license and credit cards in an overworked wallet. Receipts scattered about the pockets from hurried lunches. A tattered BlackBerry, the end-of-a-century revolution. Bits of personal in the crevices – bobby pins, hand sanitizer, Trident gum wrappers. My play developed what work looked like to me for the modern woman:

Pantsuit: a rebellion
Black: serious
Haircut: practical

I emulated my mother, as daughters do. Then denied anyone who said I looked like her, as daughters do that too. The world expanded as I grew and we all shifted with the evolution. Everything looks fresh after a few rinse cycles.

My play turned into purpose as the modern woman's uniform evolved:

Pantsuit: a nation
Black: a closet staple
Haircut: a sign of change

The work outfit evolves with the work itself. There is a myriad of ways to have a career, a family, a life and so too are there outfits for it – an outward reflection of the internal grind.

My uniform these days? A layering of both play and purpose:

White tee: to begin work swiftly (and may the coffee not spill).
Blazer cardigan: for professional ease to flex vision midstream.
Textured trousers: the expression of personal boundaries, and meaning it.
Wispy earrings: a reminder that serious is a bit too serious.

We often overlook the history behind the evolution (did you know women weren't permitted to wear pantsuits – or pants of any kind – on the United States Senate floor until 1993?) but it's good when we slow down to learn it. That way we know where to look when seeking the treasures of success (a beginner's tip: dig to the bottom).

I found them in my mother's old briefcase. A memento to remind me who I am and what I strive for. Lunch receipts scattered after friendly conversations and new opportunities. A pocket-sized way to connect to the world. Bits of personal in the crevices – because the work will always be personal.

And to my Mother: Merci.

For being the modern woman in a black pantsuit who raised her daughter to be worthy of the rose velvet trousers she wears today.

Outfit details c/o Anthropologie Michigan & Iris Boutique
Styled by Liv Styled & Kelsey Hettinga
Photos by Ashley Wierenga & Kristin Jones

Emily Bode 9/21/17 Emily Bode 9/21/17

Seasonal Edit | Moody Tones & Staying Home

Seasonal Edit: Fall

This seasonal edit focuses on darker hues (still neutrals, you know me), soft fabrics, and the art of slowing down. I have a special place in my heart for fall. It's a great time to reflect, relax, and enjoy the harvest after a long season of hard work and challenges. Even though it feels we're going through an Indian Summer right now, I'm loving the first day of fall. The Autumn Equinox, a day where the amount of daylight and darkness are equal. The best teacher of balance is the nature we live in, yes?

Oyster

Indian summer days call for lighter fabrics that can be easily layered for morning and night. I love this light beige hue because it reminds me of the ocean grays of the Northeast coast. I like layering similar shades with different textures so adding a little sparkle with the necklace is enough to make this basic outfit have a bit of bling.

Shop the look: tank (similar) / shorts / hat

Seafoam

I'm anxiously awaiting bonfire nights. A soft sweater, jeans, and a baseball cap are my go-to. Do you love the bonfire smell that lingers or do you hate it? I love having the scent of a great bonfire linger the next day. So much I even got a candle called Campfire because I miss our bonfire pit so much.

Shop the look: sweater (similar) / Madewell jeans / Lake Day hat / moccasins (similar) / camo jacket (thrifted)

Cinnamon

I've worn this burnt orange slip dress a couple of times and love it as a fall transition piece for weddings or outdoor events with a jacket. Gold details make it feel warm like the Fall golden hour that I love and make me think of my mom and friend who got the bangles for me.

Shop the look: slip dress (similar) / wedges (similar) / Brave bracelet

Books & Letters

Fall essentials for me are all about slowing down. It's crazy how challenging it is to slow down lately, isn't it? Scrolling through your phone on the couch doesn't count by the way. I'm definitely guilty of it and feel like I have to be intentional about slowing down for overall mental wellness. I'm trying to incorporate more solitary acts of slowing down this season. Books will always be a part of this for me.

I'm going to try writing more snail mail (thanks for sharing how you do this Ginger!). I don't know how many times I've said I feel like I'm in such a busy season of life right now but it isn't getting any slower. I hope more reading on the balcony and writing letters on Sunday helps calm my mind.

Tea

Totally bought this for the design but the tea is really good too. Hot. Cinnamon. Sunset. What a beautiful name for the fall. If you like sweeter tea with cinnamon and clove flavors, you're going to love this. Hot tea with a book and a cozy blanket is what my fall dreams are made of. I hope the weather will let this vision come true this season. Also got a great recommendation from a friend to reuse the tin as a succulent pot when I'm done with it and had to share. Such a good idea to keep the beauty of this tin around!

Staying Home

We've had a lot of full summer weekends so I'm looking forward to staying home more this season. And not staying in our small apartment only – we'd drive each other mad – but I more mean enjoying the town we live in instead of traveling elsewhere.

"What do you wanna do?"

"I don't know what do you wanna do?"

"I don't know, what do YOU wanna do?"

We've had some of the best times after asking each other this question, haha. I think it's ok to be bored, healthy even because then the day naturally becomes something fun. I suppose it's another act in presence I'm always seeking.

Shop the essentials: 10% Happier book / tea / Our Nest pillow (similar)

What are some fun fall plans you have?!

Seasonal Edit is a curated list of lifestyle essentials and well-designed products inspired by the seasons of the Midwest. See all edits here.

Emily Bode 8/29/17 Emily Bode 8/29/17

Seasonal Edit | Classic, Simple, & Wild

Seasonal Edit: Summer

Summer is my absolute favorite for her warmth, sunshine, and relaxed vibes all season long. This seasonal edit is full of textures, wildness, and simplicity. Or at the very least, an intentional effort to try and keep things simple amongst the chaos. Truthfully, this summer has been more challenging than I expected.

Since the Spring we've moved to an apartment in the city, gotten new jobs, and I've felt a shift within I'm still trying to work through. I've had 5 different haircuts in under a year, a clear indication there's a lot of change going on!

Summer Edit: Classic, Simple, & Wild | Polka dot dress from Target and straw hat | Brave Girl Design + Blog

Black and white textures

The majority of outfits I wore this summer were some version of a black and white pattern, white tee, and splash of denim. Whether it was a summer dress in a classic pattern or a pair of patterned shorts, black and white was the palette. Usually, I lean towards color and lightweight fabrics for the summer but I think going between air conditioning and heat multiple times a day, instead of the beach vibes I was used to living by the lake, had something to do with it.

Shop the textures: shorts / summer dress (similar) / denim jacket / hat

Summer Edit: Classic, Simple, & Wild | Sunflower bouquet | Brave Girl Design + Blog

Wildflowers, Wild Woman

It's been the best living near the farmers market because of fresh flowers ALL. SUMMER. LONG. Sunflowers are my favorite for how they depend on the sun for their happiness. It seems emotional. When the sun went down my sunflower heads would droop on the counter and come to life again in the morning sun. I can relate which is why I like them so much. More wildness came through in the books I read this summer. I re-read The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd, always have Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estes on my nightstand, and started a new one The Dance of the Dissident Daughter by Sue Monk Kidd. Having a Sue Monk Kidd moment I guess.

Summer Edit: Classic, Simple, & Wild | Farmer's Market haul | Brave Girl Design + Blog

Summer Simplicity

I kept finding myself craving the open country roads this season. Rolling down the windows to feel the heat that brings good memories from childhood. Listening to grasshoppers making music in the ditches. Watching the cornfields blow in the lazy breeze. I needed to know calm still existed amidst all the change this season. Even if it's out there somewhere far away right now. I needed to remember what my soul enjoyed. Needed to stop chasing external ideals and feeling the pressure of others’ expectations for me and my own pressure of what I should be doing at this point in my life. In the open space, amongst the wildflowers and bees buzzing, all that dialogue vanished. I found ME again & you know what she loves?

Soul music. Open spaces. Nowhere to be. Just enjoying the view.

The journey within will always be discovery and I'm guessing some chaos (has been so far). With that comes the importance of wellness – mentally, physically, spiritually. I'm always trying to keep that the priority. This season was about trying some new things and sticking with tried-and-true ingredients.

Summer Edit: Classic, Simple, & Wild | Care/Of Vitamins, monthly vitamin subscription service | Brave Girl Design + Blog

Care/Of Daily Vitamins

Care/Of is a new thing I'm trying. They're a subscription-based and customized way to take daily vitamins. It takes you through a quick and thorough quiz and gives you a detailed recommendation list of vitamins. I've selected energy-boosting and stress-free vitamins for the last two months and can really tell the difference in my overall well-being in these areas. Their customer service is also AMAZING and the boxes are cute enough to keep on your kitchen counter to remind you of your daily dose.

Use my code "TYRWB" at checkout for an entire FREE month of vitamins to try it out.

Summer Edit: Classic, Simple, & Wild | Lake Effect Apiaries Honey | Brave Girl Design + Blog

Local honey

There are a lot of benefits to honey, even if it's just a teaspoon daily in the morning to help with allergies. The most beneficial is getting honey from your local farmer's market. The bees are pollinating from the very plants giving you the sniffles so it's important to get honey close to home and from local beekeepers. Not the grocery store stuff, too much unnatural sugar.

Coconut + Mango Hand Wash

I was never a coconut fan but then my Mom gifted me this coconut face mist. It feels so summery and refreshing like I'm on a paradise island somewhere with no worries mahn (thanks Mom!). Since then, I started using this hand wash to keep the good vibes going for the bathroom.

Shop the essentials: Care/Of Vitamins / Local honey / Coconut + Mango Hand Wash

Seasonal Edit is a curated list of lifestyle essentials and well-designed products inspired by the seasons of the Midwest. See all edits here.

Emily Bode 5/5/17 Emily Bode 5/5/17

Seasonal Edit | Blush Pink & Plan-Free

Seasonal Edit: Spring

Spring is my least favorite season for all her mud and moody weather. By the end of winter, the slow pace and stillness in the Midwest are challenging. To have it followed by chilling rain and more gray skies is trying to the sun-worshipper in me. But this year I'm embracing it fully. Smiling when the rain comes down, clearing the stagnation away. Dancing when the sun comes out, the warmth on my skin promising better days ahead. This seasonal edit celebrates both.

Seasonal Edit: Blush Pink and Plan-Free for Spring | Brave Girl Design | photo by Leigh Ann Cobb Photography

Movement creates movement. And Spring is ALL about that life.

Spring is a reflection of the transitions going on in our internal lives. Have you noticed how often big life changes happen this time of year? New relationships, jobs, places to travel. Babies are being born, lovers are getting married and fresh ideas are as abundant as the magnolia blossoms. It's beautiful! The winter blues are washing away to make room for new growth.

This is ancient. This we can count on. This is nothing new.

Blush as neutral

Blush is also nothing new but this Spring it's standing out. I'm counting on this light pink, almost nude hue this season in small and mighty doses. It's so delicate and welcoming in the petals of floral patterns and tennis shoes. I'm wearing it as a classic neutral to brighten up my wardrobe subtly this season. I wouldn't be surprised if I keep it going through the summer months. I love pairing it with multiple textures in the same color family – not too matchy, but just enough.

Shop the look: dress (similar) / leather jacket (similar) / tennis shoes / hat

Plan-Free

Maybe it's because we've spent the last month in boxes or I'm wiped out from our wedding but I'm spent with planning. Anticipating obstacles, calling ahead, and timing my routes. All great habits to have to make events and life seamless but I'm balancing this with practicing presence and following my whims this season. Do you know what happens when you leave space in your calendar? Life rushes in.

Favorite plan-free travel spots: Sedona / Munising / Asheville

Seasonal Edit: Blush Pink and Plan-Free for Spring | Brave Girl Design | photo c/o This is L.

Essential Organics

If you saw my IG story last week you're probably sick of hearing about This is L. organic tampons but they're amazing! Not only is the packaging STUNNING, they're safer for your lady parts because they don't have any pesticides, rayon, chlorine, or dyes like other brands do. Personal care products are donated to female entrepreneurs in developing countries with each purchase and there's an option to subscribe to a discreet monthly delivery service. Seriously, how cool and so needed.

I've also been trying out a Nourish Organic cucumber + watercress face cleanser and taking biotin gummies by Olly in an effort to stick with my health and wellness goals for this year. My face acne is clearing up, my hair is growing, and my nails are getting stronger. Just in time for summer!

Shop the essentials: tampons / face cleanser / biotin

What are you looking forward to this season? Share in the comments below!

Seasonal Edit is a curated list of lifestyle essentials and well-designed products inspired by the seasons of the Midwest. See all edits here.

Photos by Leigh Ann Cobb Photography and c/o This is L.

Emily Bode 3/11/17 Emily Bode 3/11/17

Seasonal Edit | Neutral Layers & a Workout Routine

Seasonal Edit: Winter

I'm excited to introduce Seasonal Edit, a new series on the blog. Maybe it's because I've lived in the Midwest my entire life or because each season represents a different part of me but the tides of nature have always influenced my design decisions and inspirations. Each edit will be a curated list of lifestyle essentials and well-designed products inspired by the seasons of the Midwest.

To start, the Winter Edit.

In the stillness of winter I found beauty and balance in neutral layers and a workout routine I could count on when life got crazy. A fun pattern came into the mix with classic polka dots and I tried a new face lotion that had good results for my dry winter skin and really for any season.

Neutral Layers

This late winter outfit is my favorite combination to mix textures within the same color family and a pop of classic pattern. The waffle knit sweater and suede skirt with a leather jacket are a fun spin on beige hues and cozy textures that make me feel professional and comfortable at the same time. A goal I'm always shooting for with work outfits.

Shop the look: sweater / skirt / leather jacket (similar) / tights

Polka Dots

Speaking of pops of pattern, polka dots came into my life subtly until I looked around our home and realized they're kind of everywhere. From our tea kettle to my tights to my workout headband, these little guys in a neutral palette make beiges and black way more fun and inviting.

Shop the pattern: tea kettle / tights / headband (similar)

Daily Skincare

I'm pleasantly surprised with the No.7 Beautiful Skin Day Lotion and Night Cream for normal/dry skin. I'll admit the packaging sold me as I'm an unashamed lush for a beautifully designed package. Now I can also attest to how good the face lotion works for my winter skin. I never had a skincare routine before and value the importance of it now.

Routine

The final essential to my winter edit is ROUTINE. I wanted to make my health and blog a priority this year. Having a routine that includes them in my schedule allows me to make it happen. I work out at least once a week and publish every Sunday. The rest of the week can be an unplanned shit show yet I still feel awesome if I've at least done these.

Tying a small routine – like working out once a week — to my goal of improving my overall health makes this goal more digestible and less high stakes. This slight adjustment has been a great shift to my perspective and accountability. Plus working out and writing are complete mood boosters for me.

What are some routines you've implemented this season and what's inspiring you? I'd love to hear how you're getting through this final part of winter!

Seasonal Edit is a curated list of lifestyle essentials and well-designed products inspired by the seasons of the Midwest. See all edits here.

Emily Bode 10/13/16 Emily Bode 10/13/16

Find Your Here

Truth is, I don't have a life like the ones I see on my Instagram feed and aspire to have.

I'm not a #ladyboss. I don't run my own anything (dishwasher, yes. company, no.). I'm not at home writing in the morning and cuddling my adorable baby in the afternoon (my wish, yes). We're not building our dream home with a wraparound porch and view of the water (soon Joel, soon). Or traveling to beautiful places to attend beautiful events in beautiful clothes.

It's taken me a very long time to hear this truth of mine. To really acknowledge I'm not exactly where I want to be and I can't exactly get there tomorrow. I guess I thought if I admitted this to myself I would feel I had a very long way to go and do something drastic like quit my job or chop all my hair off.

Then I realized I've already tried that.

All the quitting and chopping doesn't actually make the uncertainty of what's next go away. It lasts for a fleeting moment – when I've put in my 2 weeks or when I look in the mirror with my new hairstyle – but that nagging feeling always comes back. Listen to this song and you will be 5 steps ahead of me in this lesson. I will not go anywhere if I'm not at first, here. Maybe some of you are here too?

My here currently looks like:

Wanting my aspirations so impatiently that I frantically email, post, and text my closest network (sometimes strangers) to PICK. ME. Choose me because I follow you and know all about you on-screen, so why would we not be a perfect fit to collab on something together?! (Admittedly, this is creepy and weird. I need to stop doing this.)
Using this method to lessen my student loans so Joel & I can get on with it already. Wraparound porch, remember?
Trying to find the balance between my full-time job and my passion projects while still making time for part of me who loves nothing more than a walk in nature.
Desperately needing to know how to wear a professional outfit without losing my very hard-won, completely mismatched, style.

I'm stepping out of the arena of perfectly curated pictures and the endless wishing I was somewhere other than where I am.

Maybe you are here or right down the road from here? I want to meet you where you are because maybe we can get through it together. Maybe we can figure out how to keep working full-time without losing our spirit at 5 o'clock. Maybe we can look at all the lady bosses, mamas, writers, homemakers, and jet setters and cheer them on for living their hard-fought dreams and for showing us how to.

Let's raise a glass to each of them.

The women. Our aspirations. Both. Knowing damn well they deserve it all and have been grinding for years to get to their here. Let's not let their moments discourage us from continuing the path to ours. Let's also know mine will look different from yours will look different from hers and we all deserve them for our own reasons.

Oh, and let's also remember we can encourage each other at the same time as staying on our own path. No need for a choice between one or the other. (Funny, this is also kind of how I pray. "Oh and", "Oh and this too".) Finally, let each of us begin. I'll meet you here.

Always love. Usually tough, Em

Connected. Supported. Held. Do you need this too? Join The Yellow Collective with me, a tribe of women dedicated to their creative life while celebrating yours.