Party Pants For Your Closet

Some weekends are for catching up on reality tv re-runs (The Bachelor and Real Housewives, anyone?) and eating froyo… this being one of them. We’re almost done with Dry January, and to be honest it’s been the best way to reset and start off the year. I’m not one for crazy cleanses or detoxes, so cutting out the booze and getting some extra zzz’s is the easiest and healthiest (IMO) opinion for me to feel and look better quickly.

Inadvertently, the theme of January has been detoxing – in multiple ways. I talked last week about cleaning out my closet and being more thoughtful in my clothing purchases. With that said, many of my favorite looks this year have incorporated pants. Wide-legged, metallic, cropped – you name it, I am loving all types of party pants at the moment. The best part about different types of pants is, you can wear them to work, brunch, even out for dinner or drinks. They’re super versatile and a fun way to mix up your outfits. Shop some of my favorites below with some easy styling tips for any occasion.

Easy ways to style statement pants

+ Tuck in an oversized turtleneck for an easy, cozy chic look.

+ Wear with a crop top or bralette and layer a duster jacket over.

+ Keep the rest of your outfit monochromatic for a look that can take you from day to night.

+ Play with textures: think classic pieces in silk or velvet for the winter.

+ Don’t be afraid to accessorize with statement pieces.

+ Stick to your basics: you can’t go wrong with a plain white t, or a silk blouse / cami.

top: flynn skye | pants: amuse society | necklace: sticks + stones

purse & shoes: who what wear collection

Post from: TheLuxiLook.com

The post Party Pants For Your Closet appeared first on ARSO.

Kicking Off the Year With Sober January

It’s Friday night after a long week. How do you unwind? In my early twenties, Friday nights were typically extremely boozy occasions with all of my best friends. Now that I’m in my late twenties, Friday nights are much tamer, to say the least. But they often involve unwinding with a glass of wine, an Aperol spritz, or spicy marg. But not this month. On December 31st, my boyfriend announced he would be doing a Sober January. I thought about it for a second and decided quickly I would join him. That means for the month of January, no alcohol. No evening glasses of wine, no cocktails with dinner, no drinks out with friends. So – what’s the deal with Sober January?

Why we decided to do Sober January

After the holidays, which were indulgent and booze-filled, to say the least, we were both ready for a reset. Combine that with a desire to get sh*t done in the month of January (hey, resolutions + goal setting!) and extremely busy work schedules, and we both knew we had to cut the booze.

I’m not a big drinker, to begin with, but a glass or two of wine with dinner can quickly become a habit, especially over the holidays when I wasn’t working every day. Then, of course, there are the more obvious reasons to cut down on alcohol – it can lead to weight gain, interferes with sleep, is horrible for your skin, it’s filled with sugar, etc. etc. I could go on and on.

To be completely honest, we both wanted to debloat from the month of December and not have to deal with hangovers and all the other expenses of drinking. We honestly couldn’t afford to be out all night, wake up late in the morning hungover, and eat junk food. #adulting

It’s also funny how our minds work sometimes – I swear when I tell myself I can’t have something, I just end up wanting it more. Does anyone else feel this way? Even though I often usually go days and weeks without drinking, I noticed that when I set a challenge of having NO drinks, I found myself being more aware of the times I was in social situations and wasn’t drinking. I also quickly realized how much alcohol is ingrained in social outings and our culture in general. You don’t even realize how alcohol is everywhere and so many social situations often involve drinking. Now that we aren’t drinking this month, we’re definitely being more creative with the activities we choose to do with friends. Workout date, anyone?

It’s only been a couple weeks, but we’ve already noticed a difference in our bodies and energy levels. My skin has definitely cleared up and smoothed out. I feel way less bloated, and I’m sleeping well and waking up naturally. This isn’t to say I’ll never drink again. I definitely miss having the occasional glass of wine. The other night at dinner I definitely stared at the spicy margaritas at our table enviously. But the mental clarity and focus have been much needed this month to tackle our to-do list and I’m happy with the decision and the little mini-challenge we gave ourselves.

We kicked off the challenge after a champagne-filled New Year’s Eve… I loved the sequined dress I wore from Revolve so much. I know sequins are such an NYE thing, but I really think this dress could be worn during the year as well. Maybe I’m just looking for an excuse to wear it again ; ).

What are your thoughts on doing a dry January?

dress: its nbd | jacket: bb dakota | shoes: raye

Post from: TheLuxiLook.com

The post Kicking Off the Year With Sober January appeared first on ARSO.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por amy zhang (@theluxilook)

Gym Motivation: Finding the Best Workout For You

“Athletic” is not a word I would use to describe myself. I didn’t grow up playing sports, was not always super active, and relied mostly on my genetics and fast metabolism throughout my teenage years to get by and stay thin. It wasn’t until a few years ago when I began investing in myself and trying out different boutique fitness classes, that I learned what the best workout is (for me) and found tactics that motivate me to stay motivated and consistent. It’s been a long journey, one filled with periods of giving up and not always having the healthiest relationship with food and my body, but I feel like I have finally made significant strides. Fitness has become a huge part of my life night – over time, I came to actually enjoy working out – and now I seriously cannot imagine my week without exercise.

It took me a long time to realize that the “best workout” is the one you actually like. Gyms were never for me – I was intimidated by all of the machines and free weights and thought the only way to get in shape was to spend hours slaving over the cardio machines. Not only was it tremendously boring and tedious, it did nothing for my body and I dreaded working out.

Then, I was introduced to barre classes – and I was instantly hooked. I loved the classes and everything about them – the instructors, the music, the community, feeling sore the next day. That was the first time in my life I ever really consistently worked out. It felt great, but I still was not getting the results I wanted. Over the years I tried every class imaginable – spin, boxing, pilates, yoga, etc. I finally found my groove and have been going to HIIT classes 3-4x a week for the past year and it has been the best thing for me.

Whatever your goal is, whether you’re looking to lose weight or get in shape, they will take time. Your body won’t change overnight, and any “plan” or “cleanse” that promises to do so is an LIE. The only thing that will change your body is if you change your lifestyle and remain committed to those changes. With that said, there are a few tricks I picked up over the years that have made working out and staying motivated so much easier.

How to motivate yourself to reach your fitness goals:

+ Have a clear goal in mind.

Maybe you have an event coming up you want to look your best for, or maybe you want to be able to do 10 push-ups. Whatever it is, setting a goal and having something to strive for help to keep your eyes on the prize.

+ Find an exercise you actually love.

If yoga or pilates isn’t your thing, try something else! There’s no “best” or “perfect” workout – it’s whatever you like the most and will actually WANT to do multiple times a week. What do you actually look forward to? Maybe instead of a gym or class, you prefer rock climbing, hiking, or running outside. There are SO many options for whatever your fitness goals are. Try something new!

+ Make friends!

This has been such a game changer for me. Meeting like-minded individuals in my boot camp class have been the best thing for keeping me accountable and motivated. On my own, I’m more likely to cancel a class last minute or half-ass it if I’m not feeling it. But making friends has not only made the class more fun (they push me to run faster, use heavier weights, and SHOW UP), I also WANT to go to class because even if the workout is rough, I get to see them! It’s really a win-win.

+ Schedule your workouts.

I plan mine out a week in advance so I know I’ve set time aside for myself and can plan around it. This makes my workout time non-negotiable, just like any other meeting I have planned during the week.

+ Look cute while you sweat.

When in doubt, dress the part. If you’re not so sure about this whole exercise thing, start with your workout clothes. I swear having a couple cute outfits is actually motivating because it makes you want to wear them (and not just to run errands in) and you feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin. Try it out! I’ll do a post on my favorite workout clothes and brands soon.

What’s your workout routine and how do you stay motivated?? xx

bra: vimmia (on sale!) | leggings: koral | shoes: apl | bag: lole

Post from: TheLuxiLook.com

The post Gym Motivation: Finding the Best Workout For You appeared first on ARSO.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por amy zhang (@theluxilook)

GETTING BACK IN SHAPE & MOTIVATED AGAIN

Confession: I have taken the last 6 months off from consistently working out. I don’t know what has happened, but if I’m being completely honest with myself it’s just pure laziness and lack of motivation. Aside from the holidays and family being in & out of town, I’ve struggled to make a solid workout schedule lately. I also prefer working out in the evenings but it gets dark at 4pm now!!

I’m one of those people that either works out consistently or doesn’t work out at all. Lately, it hasn’t been much at all. But with it being the new year I am finally ready to get my butt back in shape. I always start with new workout gear for motivation, so I recently grabbed this set from Lululemon!

ALL IMAGES BRI COSTELLO

KICK SERVE SWEAT BRA (ON SALE!) | KICK SERVE SWEAT TIGHT (SOLD OUT ONLINE, CHECK LOCAL STORE) | ADIDAS NMD XR1 SNEAKERS | SILVER PADDED JACKET

There’s nothing that motivates me to get back into working out like the way new gear does, so I got a handful of things for Christmas to get me back on track. These Adidas sneakers have easily become my go-to for running. They’re so lightweight and suuuuuper comfortable! They come in 4 colors and I can’t say enough great things about them. Just trust me, you need these!

If you live in cold temps and are in need of a warm puffer jacket, I recently grabbed this silver one from H&M! It’s a great price point and can be worn over gym clothes or event with your high-street looks. I love a good 2-for-1! I also did a post on the puffer coats earlier this week so you can check that out as well

Things that motivate me:

1. New workout gear


2. A good playlist


3. Finding a yoga studio I like


4. Getting up early and having an accomplished day

What motivates you to get back in the (gym) swing of things? I’m not complaining about the way I look, I just am lacking energy and motivation but I know it’s from not working out. I will update you guys on my new routine and what’s working for me next month!!

xx

OTHER WORKOUT GEAR IM LOVING RIGHT NOW:

Post from: SoSage.com

The post GETTING BACK IN SHAPE & MOTIVATED AGAIN appeared first on ARSO.

RED BOOTIES

I’m usually not into red, but for some reason around this time of year I always am! I’m loving adding pops of red into my everyday neutral looks, like with these red booties. They’re such a good price point and super comfortable!

Red booties are so festive and perfect for the holidays. I’ve been wearing them with jeans and also with more simple holiday dresses like this velvet pleated midi dress. I’m obsessed with the side slits and the subtle bell sleeves on this dress! Also loving that it’s under $80 It would be great for any holiday party and/or NYE shindig!

These red booties are made of the softest suede and the heel height makes them bearable to walk around in all day! Just be sure to go down a half size in these. xx

Post from: SoSage.com

The post RED BOOTIES appeared first on ARSO.

MY WORKOUT TIPS + TRICKS

BRITTANY’S LOOK

TREVOR’S LOOK

---

I have done a post on my workout routine but I wanted to update it a little bit, add a few more snack ideas that I turn to, and obviously add the hubby! I teamed up with Nordstrom to share with you guys some of my favorite workout gear and some sportswear that Trevor likes to wear on casual days!

I was never huge on working out until I got married. 1.) It wasn’t as big of a thing back then (it’s true almost 10 years ago) 2. Back in my single days I was always filling my free time with my girlfriends, sleeping, and partying! Once I got married it was a little easier to set a better schedule each day and start more of a routine – something that was super taboo for me!

At first, I was lucky if I even got to the gym and really the only reason I would go to the gym with Trevor is to spend extra time with him and in hopes, we would run by Starbucks on the way home – truth. But then I noticed that I actually started to like it and the days I would miss I felt a bit sluggish and my days wouldn’t be as good. Well, that leads to a totally new wormhole of, athletic wear! I mean if I was going to spend time at the gym I wanted to get stuff that was cute, comfortable, and practical. I also noticed I would often spend most of the days in my workout clothes so they needed a happy medium.

I feel in love with high waisted leggings and tanks! If you were to look at my closet now a third is purely workout clothes and I still love it. I also love how much of a trend it has become. It’s completely normal to see people out and about sporting their athletic wear which I feel leads us to our looks!

Starting with Trevor’s – I love when he wears this casual looks! I think joggers on guys are so attractive and comfortable for them and this heather grey zip jacket is comfortable and casual but still has good style. Trev is always a sucker for new shoes (what guy isn’t) and we are a huge fan of Nike kicks over here! These ones particularly are his favorite because of how comfortable they are.

Moving on to my outfit I’m in love with these ALO leggings and this ALO sweatshirt. I have heard great things about this brand but this is my first time owning a couple pieces and boy are they worth the money! The sweatshirt feels like butter! I love the lightweight of it and the bubble arms! I also love the cream color. I’m a sucker for white + black but I feel like cream is good to still stay in my comfort zone while missing it up! These leggings are so so cute! I love the rose shade and the detail but they also hold me in and don’t stretch out! I’ve worn these so many times and also get tons of compliments on them. They also come in black and white!

BRITTANY’S LOOK

TREVOR’S LOOK

Other Things I love for my workouts

I often get asked about my workout routine and eating habits or meal plan. My main tip would be, portion control than eating super healthy. Although, I do indulge I try to eat mindfully. Meaning I don’t indulge everyday in a huge Sundae but I might have a chocolate chip cookie or 2 for a treat. A tip I do have is finding self control. I think it’s perfectly fine to eat everything you might want or crave but all in smart portions. Whenever I had banned myself from a certain food I find it back fires. Just knowing that I can’t have something gets in my head and it’s all I can think about, anyone else? Below I’m going to share some of my workout basics and my favorite snacks I have on hand right now.

Workout:

1. cardio: I also start with a cardio to get my body going. I aim to do at least 30 mins of cardio each day. I usually walk/run on my treadmill but if I go to the gym I love the elliptical + stair master. I feel like cardio gives me endurance for the rest of the day. Sometimes it’s the only thing I can fit in and knowing that I did 30 mins of walking/running is satisfying to me. If you’re just starting to get into the workout game start small and see what works for you. Push yourself a little more each day but don’t over do it to the point that you don’t want to workout again the next day (been there).


2. light weights: I like to keep my weights lights and do many reps when it comes to toning my arms. I know everyone is different but this is what works for me. I also like to do yoga and stretch my body while engaging my core at the same time to build long lean muscles (I do this with my arms too).


3. squats: Guys I have love hate relationship with squats. I love the after burn they give my legs and bum + love the results of toned legs and lifted bum but I hate doing them. Often times I will do a set of 25 x 3 reps and call it done but then I will also walk around the house doing lunges (weird I know – Mason thinks I’m crazy). But really it’s a simple way to get a little more in and if I’m walking around doing things I might as well make it worth it right?

Morning time is the best time for me to workout. It’s not always easy to wake up in the morning and I’m a night owl which makes it a little tricky sometimes but I find if I lay my workout clothes out the night before and have my water bottle prepared it makes the process easier. I prefer the morning because like I said earlier it gives me endurance and energy the rest of the day. If you are new to working out you’re going to feel so tired and drained – this is normal and it will pass when your body realizes this is a routine. I like to get my workout over with and checked off my to-do list. It gives me a right start to the day and confidence that I already accomplished something. The one thing I do like to do at night is yoga and I usually go to the gym for that because it’s so relaxing but that is more of a treat to me and a little TLC.

I don’t have anything revolutionary when it comes to working out but if I could give one piece of advice it would be to find what works for you, something you know you can commit yourself to doing and make sure it’s benefitting you in some way! Everyone is different and although there is tons of amazing workout stuff floating around there nowadays it’s important to sift through it and find your groove. Also cute workout clothes help a ton! I’m not just saying that because I love clothes and am a fashion blogger! They help, they give your an extra boost of confidence and excitement knowing that you’re working out and have a cute outfit on – i promise!

I’m linking a could more of my workout favorites and things that I highly recommend for anyone who enjoys getting their sweat on!

Some of my go-to snacks lately

Beef Jerky (I like the little packets from Costco + so do my babies)

Peanut Butter Toast (mikes good seed bread)

Avacado Toast (mikes good seed bread)

Fruit & Nut Bars

Edamame (kids love these)

Salted Mix Nuts (costco container)

Baby  Bell Cheese

Berries

Post from:  Brittany Maddux.com

http://bit.ly/2BnPucK

The post MY WORKOUT TIPS + TRICKS appeared first on ARSO.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por BRITTANY MADDUX 💙 (@brittanymaddux)