OOTW: Bohemian Boardwalk

Hello everyone! I recently went shopping and found some really cute bohemian pants--needless to say I'm head over heels in love with them. They look fantastic with pretty much everything in my closet and I couldn't wait to show them to you!

Without further ado, here is my outfit of the week:

         

          A simple way to recreate this outfit is to find a top that is loose, but still shows off your figure. If the top is too loose, adding the flow-y palazzo pants will make you look like you're lost in a sea of material! Wearing a tight-fitted top would look great, too, however, if you're like me, comfort is always key. 

          As for accessories, analyze the print of your palazzo pants, and find the color you want to bring out the most. For me, it was a scarlet flower clip that highlighted the red. However, a teal bow showcasing the blue or an orange headwrap would work just as well. 

          When deciding what shoes to wear, go for something that's subtle and comfortable. For instance, these sandals sport a nice versatile color and are super comfortable during the summertime. Other shoe options might be oxford flats, gladiator sandals, or flip-flops. 

           I hope you are enjoying your summer and don't forget to rock some awesome outfits!

                                                                         See ya around!

                                                                                         xoxo,

                                                                                         Kiley

                                 P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :)

How to Have Fun This Summer!

Hello lovelies! Where I live, school's out and summer has begun. This means that I, Kiley, have graduated middle school and will be an incoming freshman next year! Eeeek! The feeling is so surreal I don't know how to explain it. However, now that summer is starting, I feel like my brain is slowly deteriorating and the boredom has kicked in. Can you relate? Nevertheless, I am determined to make the most out of my summer vacation and have compiled a list of activities so that you can join the movement for "Funner Summers" as well (yes, I am well aware that "funner" is not a word).
          1. Do Some Type of Exercise
              Personally, I enjoy biking to a nearby friend's house and making it a habit to stretch every morning. This helps my body feel nice and refreshed all summer long and gets me into shape for cheer season. Plus, who doesn't love spending time with friends?
          2. Research Healthy Snack Recipes Online
              I don't know about you, but I LOVE cooking. Whenever I bike to my friend's house, the first thing I want to do is BAKE,BAKE,BAKE! Baking might not be your thing, but who says you have to use an oven to make a culinary masterpiece? Research online or search magazines for delicious smoothie recipes or snacks and try making them with a close friend or family member. You'll find a healthy way to treat your tastebuds and spend time with someone you love--definitely a win-win situation!
           3. Read Somethin'!
               I know, I know, I totally sound like a nerd by suggesting this--after all, barely any teenagers like to read anymore. However, do you have to pick up a book to necessarily read something? NO! Set aside some time in your day to read a magazine article, a newspaper, and original story on Wattpad, or *God forbid*, a BOOK! Try changing things up a little by meeting with a friend once a week to read a book together. Reading can be much more enjoyable when you have a friend by your side!
           4. Plan A Trip With Your Friends
               Whether it's a quick Starbucks hangout or a long roadtrip to the beach, spending time with friends is by far one of the best things to do during summer. First, plan a location and a date via group text messaging. Then, ask your parents if you can attend. Once you get a driver, you're all set for an awesome trip! Don't forget to snap a few photos while you're at it!
           5. Make Some Extra Cash
               Let's face it--it feels great earning some extra cheddar. Just think about it; with this money, you could do your parents a favor by buying your own back-to-school clothes and movie tickets! So how do you make this money? Analyze your neighborhood. Do a lot of people own dogs? Start a dog-walking business! Are there a lot of young kids? Babysit or be a summer tutor! Are there a lot of elderly people? Offer to help them set up a computer or teach them how to use their new tablet! It's as simple as that. 
           6. Update Your Look
               Summer is the best time to make a bold moveand change something about yourself. Go for it! There are several ways to do this, such as dying/styling your hair, playing with different makeup looks, getting contacts instead of glasses, trying a new style of clothes, getting acrylic nails, etc. However, not all changes are made on the outside. If you feel a deep need to make a change on the inside, let summer be a chance for you to have a fresh start.
           7. Try Something New
               Have you ever wanted to go zip-lining or try escargot? Now's the time! If you don't have the money, try smaller things, such as reviewing local restaurants or learning a new language on a smartphone app. Whatever it is, you'll be glad you did it this season! 
           I hope you've found new ways to have "Funner Summers" and put your ideas to the test!

                                                                 See ya around!

                                                                                xoxo,

                                                                                Kiley

              P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :)

My Life in 2014

Hello Everyone! Today is a beautiful Sunday morning, and we all know that Sunday mornings are the days when my thoughts kindle afresh inspirational and insightful ideas to blog to the world! So without further ado, let me reflect on my 2014--I hope you gather something important from it!

2014. WOW. What a crazy year for me. 

Around the end of seventh grade, I had my personal style (somewhat) figured out. During the beginning of seventh grade in 2013, it had been a disaster, but I soon discovered that there were many different types of styles that I could have tried--and the long, rough journey to finding my style began. 

For my thirteenth birthday (early March), I had a surprise party with all of my closest friends. Even my best guy friend from Huntington Beach and his family had taken the time to drive down to my house and surprise me! If I could make a list of all the best birthday parties I've had, I'd definitely list my 13th at the very top! 

On May 11th, 2014, my baby cousin, Lucy, was born. I have never felt more blessed! Lucy  makes me fill up with joy every time I see her. She is such a happy little girl, and although she doesn't know it, she makes others happy every day.

From the previous year (2013), I had made friends with three amazing girls, and we'd stuck together like super glue. Yet, along with this friendship, there came relationship troubles GALORE. I remember my New Year's Resolution was to make new friends. Why? Once Summer of 2014 began, friend drama was overwhelming. One of the three friends I had made was starting text-arguments practically every single day. It ruined my summer.

Then came August, the first semester of eighth grade. I knew who I was, what clothes I preferred, girl world was at peace, and I was familiar with my middle school.  In seventh grade, I had been interviewed for a leadership club called "Bobcat Ambassadors." Fortunately, my interview was successful, and Bobcat Ambassadors became my eighth grade fourth period elective. One of my best friends had been in the class the previous year, and recommended that I "try it out." 

At first, the only friend I knew in the class was very distant. I knew a few kids from previous years in middle school, but most of them were simply acquaintances. For the first few weeks, it was extremely uncomfortable to make it through the class. I had wished to join choir again, hoping that there would still be a space for me. 

Then, everything changed in the blink of an eye.

My once distant friend suddenly became extremely close to me. We just 'clicked,' as some people might say. We even attended a play together--which has become a major part of the theatre obsession we share! I started to get to know the kids in Bobcat Ambassadors, and made a lot of great guy friends I never thought I would've had. 

In P.E, I made friends with three new girls, and along with my best friend and my friend from Bobcat Ambassadors, we are an inseparable team. If you didn't catch that present-tense hint from the last sentence, we are still together and inseparable! We've come up with crazy nicknames for each other, gang names, and are now referred to as "The Super Sexy Six." JUST KIDDING! 

So, if you didn't guess already, my 2014 was filled with ups-and-downs, friend drama and peace, new friends and old friends, but just like any other story, it worked out for the best in the end. I guess New Years Resolutions do come true!

My Life Right Now

Hello Everyone! I hope you are having an amazing weekend! 

Today I want to address the issue of my tardiness. I haven't been posting for the past few months and it has been very embarrassing. The truth is, posting felt more like a chore than a hobby. I felt that because very few people were reading my posts, if I happened to stop posting for a month or two, no one would be disappointed. 

I was right. 

There really was no need to "do it for my readers" because, let's be honest, there aren't very many of you out there! Why continue to blog if I have no one to share it with? 

As a blogger, it takes quite a lot of effort to produce quality content for readers to enjoy. In return, readers share the link to my blog and I continue to produce content. Lately, I haven't been getting anything in return. Two or three people read my blog at the most, and it's very disappointing.

*Anyway*

A plethora of important things have occurred in my life. The New Year 2015 has approached, and I have really taken the time to identify my flaws, struggles, and goals that I need to polish and refine. 

My Top 8:

• Spending more time with God
• Spending more time with my siblings
• Learning to respect my Dad
• Controlling my anger
• Eat Healthy 
• Work on publishing a book! 
• Spending more time off of my phone
• Being Happy!

As you can see, the majority of my "resolutions" deal with character, time management, and relationships! Reflecting on 2014, these three main ideas were things I had a hard time controlling in my life, and now I need to work on them more than ever! 

What are your new years resolutions? Let me know in the comments! 

I hope you enjoyed this quick, spontaneous blog post an continue to make this year amazing!

See ya around!

xoxo,

Kiley

Bloom: A Girl's Guide To Growing Up Gorgeous Book Review

Hi everyone! Man, it has just been waaaay too long since I've posted. I have been pretty busy on the weekends, but other than that, just plain laziness has gotten in the way of me posting.

Anyway, I recently went to the bookstore and bought this book by Carmindy. It's titled Bloom: A Girl's Guide To Growing Up Gorgeous. Beforehand, I had never even heard of Carmindy, other than that she chose not to give her last name and was writing something beauty-related. Now, after reading this book, I have found that she is an extremely talented makeup artist and writer as well.

I HIGHLY recommend this book to all teenage girls. Besides the makeup tutorials, Carmindy explains that inner beauty and outer beauty have a connection, and how your outer beauty is worthless if you don't have inner beauty as well. This is something that I strongly believe in. When I wear makeup for special occasions and get all dressed up, my inner beauty bursts with confidence and I feel great on the inside and the outside.

Throughout this book, Carmindy gives you advice on skincare, tips for applying your makeup just right, what makeup products to use, and an everyday makeup tutorial called "The 5-Minute Face," which is great for girls who don't like to wear a lot of makeup (me!!!). Bloom is definitely a great book for makeup beginners and girls who want to sharpen their skills. 

What do you think about Bloom, ladies? Comment down below! Remember to stay beautiful and be yourself!

See ya around!

Xoxo,

Kiley

P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :-) 

My Top 5 Fall Clothing Favorites!

Hi guys! As you know, Halloween was last night, and I hope everyone got a mountain of candy (I sure did)! I am extremely tired, because, who goes to bed early on a Halloween Friday night? 

Fall is slowly coming to my city, and I can't wait to start wearing some awesome fall clothes! I don't know what it is about Autumn fashion, but everyone's in love with it (including me). You know why? You can get away with being both stylish and comfortable--my favorite style of all time! Today I will be talking about my top five favorite fall clothing items, and-who knows? Maybe you can relate to a few of them!

5. Knit hats

Knit hats not only keep you warm, but they look so cute! Beanies, slouchy beanies, berets, etc. 

4. Knee-high knit socks

These socks look adorable paired with boots and skater skirts-and they are super warm! 

3. Infinity Scarves

I don't know what it is about these scarves, but they can make a simple outfit look absolutely stunning! Just wearing a T-shirt and jeans with an infinity scarf can boost the look to make it more stylish than casual. 

2. Leggings 

For days when I don't want to wear pants, these are a life saver. Leggings are super comfortable and easy to move in. You can wear these almost everywhere--whether it be a super casual workout at the gym or a night out with your friends! 

1. Sweaters

There really isn't an explanation why I love sweaters so much. They are both  comfortable and stylish. Enough said. 

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post and have a nice Halloween hangover!

See ya around!

Xoxo,

Kiley

P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :-)

My Jam! Songs That Keep Me Going

Good morning, lovelies! Today I am going to be sharing with you a few songs that cheer me up and constantly help me to move on. 

Music has empowered me in so many ways. A few notes and a chorus can give me hope, energy, or even comfort. Believe it or not, when I am extremely depressed, I will start to sing! It's practically impossible to describe the feelings inside of me when this happens. These songs that I'm going to share with you do just that!

Without further ado, here are these amazing songs!

1. "We Live" by Superchick

This song inspires me not only because of the beautiful music, but the amazing lyrics as well. Basically this song is telling everyone to live your life to the fullest because we never know when our life could end.

2. "Little Wonders" by Rob Thomas

Not only do I love this movie, but this song as well! This song has taught me that life can be rough, but we just have to let go of the past and move on to the future. There are so many little wonders of life that you are missing!

3. "By Your Side" by Tenth Avenue North

This is a Christian song that has filled me with so much love for God. If you aren't Christian, I still encourage you to listen to this song, because the lyrics can be interpreted in different ways, and it is just a beautiful song anyway! This song is supposed to symbolize God talking to you, telling you how much he loves you. God will always be "By Your Side." 

I hope that you benefit from these songs in an amazing indescribable way! I know I have! Remember to stay beautiful and be yourself.

See ya around!

Xoxo,

Kiley

P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :) 

OOTW: Beach Days

Hi guys! Where I have been living, it has been extremely hot outside (104 to be exact). Everyone who lives here is either trying to stay cool in the pool, or is cowering inside their houses, praying that the dreaded heat wave will disappear. I am cowering inside my house.

Today's look is called "Beach Days." It reminds me of a lazy day at the boardwalk or the beach, where you can toss your worries behind you and relax! Don't forget the ice cream! 

Here it is:

If you wanna recreate this look:

Find a top! Chances are you're using this as a swim suit cover-up, so you want to keep it loose and comfortable. Anything that floats your boat! 

Grab some shorts! I chose these American flag patterned shorts, not only because they are super comfy, but because they add a unique pop of color and pattern to the outfit. Of course, leggings and yoga pants would look great as well-it's up to you!

Top it off with a cardigan! If you haven't seen this fringed cardigan from A Floral Summer, then I have news for you! I LOVE THIS THING! It's a great cardigan for the summer weather. I encourage you to experiment with different cardigans for this outfit-you'll find that they can completely transform a look!

Slip on some shoes! Flip-flops are essential for the beach. I chose this pair because the cream color matches the cardigan. You could also wear some cute sneakers or oxford flats as well!

There you have it! This is probably one of my favorite looks. What do you think? Comment below!

See ya around!

Xoxo,

Kiley

P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :)

Dating In Middle School?

Happy Sunday! I hope you've had a nice, relaxing weekend! Today I'm writing about something that's pretty controversial, and although it may seem innocent, it has brought up a lot of issues that tweens/teens face today. This is indeed dating in middle school. 

Now, before you come at me with angry comments, let me say that it is up to your parents to decide the age of when you should start dating/be in a relationship. If you really want any advice, you should talk to them. Also, if you're already dating in middle school, just know that I'm not trying to shoot you down, but rather expressing my views about the topic. 

First, let me explain the different types of motives and relationships that I see middle schoolers have when it comes to dating. I feel very strongly that most middle school teens are dating just for the sake of having a boyfriend or a girlfriend. I'll go online to social media websites and see so many girls/boys practically bragging about how they have a boyfriend/girlfriend. Some like doing this because of the impression it gives towards their peers. Some find it cool, believing that they're "older" or "mature" because they're in a relationship. Whatever the reason, it definitely makes them feel special.

Then there are the teens who date only because they "like" the person. I see many teens(mostly girls) who "like" the person, date them, lose interest in them(sometimes because of a first fight, or for no reason at all), and then drop them. The process keeps repeating, and soon, they've already been with eight or ten guys/girls! It sounds unrealistic, but it's true!

The main cause for all of this simply might mean these teens are unaware of what a true relationship is. If anyone is in a relationship, I believe they should love them, not like them(there's a difference). For instance, you like your celebrity crush, but you love your mom and dad. Your boyfriend/girlfriend should lean towards the "love" spectrum more than the "like," right? 

If you don't know what love is, then I'll tell you right now that love isn't posting your relationship status on social media or holding hands and kissing in public. Love definitely isn't boastful, proud, or rude. Love is staying together and overcoming hardships. Love is accepting each other for who you are. Love doesn't have to be flashy or dramatic for you to feel it. Love is...well....love! 

I feel that if middle schoolers aren't mature enough for a relationship like this, they should wait until they're older. Sure, it can be fun to have a non-serious relationship, but is it really worth it? Or is your relationship more like friend-status?

If you're in a middle-school relationship right now, just remember what a true relationship is, and don't stay in it if it isn't worth the hardships you'll face as a couple. On the other hand, if you're not in a middle-school relationship, don't worry about it! Ignore those girls on social media! You have your whole life ahead of you. My advice would be to learn from the mistakes from others around you, and wait until you're older to have a long-lasting relationship that's really worth it. 

I hope you have enjoyed today's post! Remember to stay beautiful and be yourself!

See ya around!

Xoxo,

Kiley

P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :) 

The Basics of Bullying

(I did not have the time yesterday to post this! Sorry for the inconvenience) 

Hi! Today's topic is something universal-it has occurred since the beginning of time, and it seems that no matter how hard we try, it won't go away. You guessed it; it's bullying.

There are several different types of bullying, but they are all targeted towards one thing; controlling an lowering the confidence of their peers. Bullying is one of the hardest obstacles to overcome, and it doesn't stop after school years. That's why having confidence and high self-esteem are key to making bullies disappear.

Try thinking about why this person is bullying you. Could it be because of certain circumstances in their home life? Are they trying to become popular with a group of people? Or maybe it's a friend who thinks they're just teasing you. Whatever motive, having an idea about it can get you to understand the bully better. Most of the time, a bully doesn't have enough confidence about him/herself, so he/she brings down the confidence of others to make him/her seem better than the rest.

First thing's first, you need to stand up for yourself, and don't let bullies control you like a puppet. Whenever a bully comes at you with a rude remark or maybe a punch in the gut, whatever you say MUST sound confident. I cannot stress this enough. Say something such as, "Wow," or "What are you trying to accomplish?" Most bullies don't pick on people who are already confident in themselves. 

If the bullying gets worse, try telling your teacher(s). Tell them to keep an eye out for the bully-maybe your teacher(s) might catch him/her in the act!

If all else fails, it is essential that you report the bully immediately. Don't think you're "chickening out" instead of taking a hit. It takes real courage to talk to someone about your personal struggles, and, trust me, we all have them. The principal and your parents can really help you-all you have to do is ask. 

What about cyber bullying? Well, I believe that you mustn't let one hateful comment ruin your day. Try focussing on the positive instead. But; if there are more than a few hateful things being spread about you on the Internet, you need to tell someone. Most websites allow you to report hateful or explicit comments or pictures so that they can be delt with. If not, try having a parent send an email to the owner of the website. Either way, the less time you spend on the Internet while bein cyber bullied, the better. 

Just remember that you need to stay true to yourself. If you are being bullied for wearing a style you like, don't change it! A bully wants to control you. If you change yourself in any way, you're letting them get what they want. If you show the bully you aren't affected by them, they will bother you less. 

While you are being bullied, it's important to have a strong support group. Spend more time with your family(no matter how crazy they are!). Hang out with friends who cheer you up, not bring you down. You need to be reminded of the beautiful, amazing person that you are. 

I hope this post really helped! I recently posted about confidence if you would like to read that as well (read it here: http://fashionbykiley.blogspot.com/2014/08/back-to-school-tips-confidence.html?m= ). Remember to stay beautiful and be yourself!

See ya around!

Xoxo,

Kiley

P.S Please share my blog with your friends! It would really make me smile :)