Lace & Pearls

A Seattle Style blog. Helping women who struggle with their personal style or those who just need a fashion fix!

4 Blogging Tips For New Bloggers

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing. One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.I was recently featured in the Style Collective newsletter. Not familiar with SC? It’s literally the go-to for all things blogging and I wish it was around when I first started. It would have saved me a lot of blood, sweat, and tears! With SC, I no longer need to hop around to various sources to get what I need since it’s all in one place. The site and the podcast provide a wealth of knowledge for entrepreneurs and influencers and my favorite features include the blog, blog prep kits, and the e-courses and guides! The community element and forum topics are a huge plus too.

For the feature, I was asked to share a bit about myself and add 3 blogging tips for new bloggers. I thought these tips might be of some value to my audience and I’ve added a bonus tip just for Lace & Pearls readers. Enjoy!

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.

I started my blog after not being able to grow and pursue a long-term career at Nordstrom. I was there for 10 years and eventually left and transitioned into healthcare. I quickly learned that I missed being immersed in fashion, so I started my blog. If a company wasn’t going to support my dream then I was going to do it on my own! One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.

For a little more about me and my background check out The Girl Behind The Blog.

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.4 Blogging Tips For New Bloggers

Use high-quality photos. I wish I hired a photographer from the beginning; I would definitely be further along in my journey. Even if you can’t afford a professional photographer, partner up with a fellow blogger who knows how to use a camera and take pictures for each other. Another option is to hire an intern from a local college. You could even pick up the skill yourself! I know several bloggers that shoot their own outfits.

Don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle. The people who are killing it in the industry have been doing their thing for a long time. Their success didn’t come overnight so don’t expect yours to. If you don’t believe me, go through some of your favorite bloggers archives and see their beginnings. I know mine was rough. Keep your head up and don’t get bogged down with what everyone else is doing and just do you!

Be consistent. Blogging is hard and you wear so many hats! The output truly doesn’t reflect the time and energy spent to make things happen. My biggest tip to a new blogger is to know your why and be consistent. If you’re only going to blog twice a month stick with it and follow through. Don’t start and drop off for several months and then decide to start back up. This is not good for you, your followers, or the brands that want to work with you.

Know your why. When someone tells me that they want to start a blog, I always want to know their why. Knowing this alone will determine if blogging is something they should pursue. If you want to blog because it looks fun or you want to make lots of money, I would pump the breaks.  Blogging is a lot of work, and yes it can be fun, but in reality it’s a lot of time and energy and you won’t see the pay off right away. People who have a message to share or are skilled in a particular area have the potential to be great bloggers. If people are always asking for your advice on how to do something and it’s something you’re passionate about, then I say go for it!

One thing that appealed to me about blogging was the fact that bloggers were everyday people who were finding their voice and inspiring others to do the same. I also liked how it was a way to be creative and to work on my writing.What blogging tips do you have? Share in the comments.

Shop the post:


Top: Nordstrom Halogen (similar) | Jeans: NYDJ | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry – Ana pendant | Earrings: Sugarfix by Bauble Bar (old) c/o | Booties: Famous Footwear (similar) c/o | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar)

📷’s by  Luba Kochubey Portraits

Activewear That Goes From Day To Night

I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night. The more I hustle, the more I crave clothing that’s comfortable and functional, so when I had the opportunity to partner with TEMA Athletics, it was a match made in heaven! The clothing from this brand can literally go from day to night with little to no effort. Plus all of the items are the highest quality and are available in sizes XS-3X. What do I love the most? TEMA is all about women empowerment and inclusivity no matter where you are in your fitness journey!

Before we jump into the fashion, I wanted to share a quick story about how I connected with TEMA and it’s founder & CEO, Bhawna Gupta. TEMA was looking to produce a body positivity shoot a few months back. Kate from All Things Kate (amazing blogger/friend) passed along my name to Bhawna. She reached out to me and we eventually met for a fitting. Bhawna designs the clothes and does the photography. I’ll be sharing the photos from that shoot soon.

Post-fitting, Bhawna mentioned that we should partner up with both our brands, TEMA and Lace & Pearls Jewelry (my handmade jewelry line) and that is how the day-to-night shoot was inspired! Bhawna came up with the creative vision, found makeup artist Katy Marie and got balloons from Le Ballon. Emma (Emma Edition) and I supplied our shoes and accessories.

Every day I pinch myself because of the opportunities that transpired from this blog. It’s amazing how one connection can lead to another and then more! What’s even better is when those connections spark long-lasting friendships.

Activewear That Goes From Day To Night

I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night.I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night. I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night.For the first look, I wore the Mesh Back Tank in metallic ivory with the High Waist Cage Detail Compression Yoga Leggings. For the makeup, we kept it natural with nude lips.

Emma is wearing the Mesh Back Tank with the High Waist Compression Seamless Leaf Leggings.

Transitioning to night was a lot of fun and boy did we look glam! I kept the same pair of leggings but swapped out the top for the metallic moss green option. I traded in my sneakers for a pair of black pumps and added a simple clutch. For the makeup, we kept the lips nude but opted for a dramatic smokey eye. Normally, I wear very little makeup on my eyes so I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this look.

I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night. I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night.Lace & Pearls Jewelry: Becca necklace and Marissa earrings.

I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night.Emma is wearing the Double Mesh Tank with the Camo High Waist Printed Compression Leggings. For the accessories, she is rocking the stylish Hilary threader earrings, Penny necklace, and Jossylyn bracelet.

I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night.I crave comfortable clothing, so it was a match made in heaven to partner with TEMA Athletics, activewear that goes from day to night.Visit the TEMA site to shop Emma and I’s outfits. If you see something you like, use code LACEANDPEARLS to receive 40% off your order. Offer is good for everything on the site.

Which outfit is your favorite? Will you be taking your activewear from day to night? Share in the comments.

Clothing: TEMA Athletics c/o | Jewelry: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Makeup: Katy Marie c/o | Balloons: Le Balloons c/o | Shoes: Nike (day look) night Paul Green (old) | Clutch: DSW

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

Photography: Bhawna Gupta

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #10 – Capsule Wardrobe Recap

Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. Keep reading for the full wardrobe recap.This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

Sometimes changing things up can be life-changing, or at least therapeutic! Simple things like changing up your morning routine, taking a new commute, or even a different workout can really lift the dust and rejuvenate the mind. The same goes for having a clean and organized closet.

Today is the end of my spring wardrobe challenge where I took 10 pieces and created 10 entirely different looks. If you missed any of these outfits, I have included a link to them at the bottom of this post.

Before I get into the heart of things, I have to admit that I did lose some momentum in posting for this series. I’m not sure if I ran out of topics to write about or if life just got in the way, but either way I’m proud that I completed the challenge!

A few weeks ago I shared 5 reasons why you should start a capsule wardrobe as well as some goals that I wanted to reach with this challenge. My primary goal was to prove that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to look stylish and I feel like I successfully accomplished that!

Capsule Wardrobe Recap

What I would change. I am pretty satisfied with the pieces that I chose for this exercise. I do wish I would have posted twice a week so I could have ended the series in a timely manner. Some of the items that I chose were more winter than spring, but since I do live in Seattle, it was pretty true to the climate!

What piece got the least amount of wear. I think the snow leopard sweater I wore here and here got the least amount of wear, but I am not sure how else I would have worn it. Perhaps I could have worn it on top of my J.Jill dress like I did with this sweater.

What was my fav piece? I know I’ve mentioned this outfit throughout the series, but I really love how it turned out.

Would I do a capsule again? Definitely! The capsule wardrobe was easy, but sharing the looks and keeping the momentum was hard. If I were to document again, I don’t think I would have shot all of the looks in one day but instead maybe shot 3-4 at a time. I think this would help keep me more in the moment and allow me to better express how I am feeling at the time rather than having to recall it months later.

What did you think of this capsule wardrobe recap? Will you be doing your own challenge in the future? Please share in the comments.

Shop the post:

Dress: J. Jill c/o | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Booties: Report c/o Famous Footwear (similar) | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #9 – 5 Reasons to Start Your Own Capsule Wardrobe

In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items.In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items. In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items. This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

In honor of the Spring Wardrobe Challenge coming to an end (only one post left!), I thought it would be helpful to revisit my goals and what I wanted to accomplish. This will hopefully inspire you to start your own capsule wardrobe and rid yourself of unnecessary items. In case you missed it, also check out this post on 6 Things I’ve Learned From My Capsule Wardrobe.

5 Reasons to Start Your Own Capsule Wardrobe

Save money. This was a huge one! Not only was I feeling creatively stagnant in my clothing choices, but I also didn’t want to spend a bunch of money. Due to some weight gain, I didn’t have many options that still worked. My 10 pieces were interchangeable and perfect for every day.

Ignite creativity and feel content. Prior to starting this blog almost four years ago I was a complete shopaholic! When I felt stressed I would shop. Didn’t feel pretty? Shop. Lose or gain weight? I would shop. Thankfully J.Jill sent me a bunch of spring items so I didn’t have to pick up a lot of stuff: see here, here, and here. As a bonus, working with less helped me think outside of the box and allowed me to really maximize my 10 items.

Make intentional purchases. Once I paired down my wardrobe and curated my 10 looks, I found that what I really needed was some new undergarments like tanks, underwear, and bras. What I had was either too small, old, or both.

Identify wardrobe gaps. Other than undergarments, I realized that I could also use a few more pairs of shoes and another lightweight jacket. I wore my denim jacket and some other lightweight options for most of the season. I realized I wanted one more, preferably something that looks good with black.

Try something new. When you’re limited to only 10 pieces you have to get creative, which is why I am a big fan of this outfit where I wore my dress as a skirt. I know it’s not super innovative but I was proud of myself for trying something new.

Will you be trying a capsule wardrobe? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Shop the Post:

Blouse: J.Jill c/o | Denim: J. Crew | Purse: Issac Mizrahi (thrift) | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Booties: Report c/o Famous Footwear (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

Spring Wardrobe Challenge Outfit #8 – The Lightweight Sweater

How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater. How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater. How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater.This series is part of the 10X10 Spring Challenge. For more information on what it is and how it works, click here.

How are we already toward the end of May when it feels like spring has just arrived? Although we have been lucky enough to have some warm days, we still tend to have some chilly ones throughout the season, so even though we are mid-spring, I can always use some type of lightweight sweater.

The Lightweight Sweater

Other then the leopard print, this sweater is perfect for cooler days. The material is super soft but not overly warm for days that are damp or overcast. My suggestion is, depending on your climate, don’t pack away all of your sweaters. They’re great for early mornings and afternoons spent al fresco. Rosé anyone?

Today’s takeaway – wear lightweight layers that are easy to throw in your purse when you’re not using them. This sweater is perfect for just that! In the early morning, I can wear it over this camisole and by the afternoon I can wear the cami on its own (available in several colors). Since this sweater was on the shorter side, I added the cami for a little flare. The accessories are minimal, but I still managed to slip in this statement pendant and adorable cat purse!

Where is your favorite place to shop for lightweight sweaters? Share in the comments.

Shop the post:

Sweater: J.Crew (similar) | Camisole: J.Crew | Denim: J. Crew | Purse: Ted Baker (similar) | Necklace: Zulily c/o | Booties: Paul Green (similar) | Lipstick: Urban Decay 1993 c/o

*c/o: courtesy of or gifted.

More From This Series:

📷: Genelyn Jaye Photography 

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