Polka Dots and Pleats

Forever 21 skirt and sweater, Target tote, Ruche shoes, Francesca's necklace

Writer's Block? Yes, it exists. For example, right now when I literally can't think of anything to write. Maybe it's because it's Monday, maybe it's because I haven't had breakfast yet. But today, I'll just leave you wishing you a positive start into the second quarter of the year. Yes, you heard that right. We are already a quarter of the way done with 2014. Blew your mind? Mine too.

I had been searching for a pleated maxi skirt everywhere, and when I found this one at Forever 21, I knew I couldn't leave without it. It's feminine, pretty, and easily paired with so many things. I wore it for the first time in Las Vegas a few weeks ago with a basic t-shirt and a leather bomber jacket=my favorite combo. This time, I paired it with a chunky sweater and necklace to match. How would you style a pleated maxi? Share in the comments below!

Also, special shout out to my co-worker Leeda of At This Volume for taking these shots!

Spring Transitional

Old Navy T-shirt, H&M jeans and blazer, Target shoes and tote

It's been a while since I've shared a new outfit post! I finally had a chance to get a quick photoshoot in a couple weeks ago! This has been my transitional Spring outfit. Since the weather has been pretty unpredictable, the blazer and graphic t-shirt combo is so easy for the 90 degree days in March or the chillier evenings. Plus, I love t-shirts with positive messages that keep me going all day!

Also, these nude open toe booties are my absolute favorite purchase of the season. They basically make any outfit look put-together, and several random people on the street have stopped me to tell me they love my shoes. The best part: they are from Target!! I'm pretty sure I raved about them in my Travel Must Haves post, but they are worth talking about again!

A little catch up on my life: 

• February and March were extremely busy months in planning our engagement party! I can't believe it's almost April. Check out some sneak peeks of photos on my Instagram from the party!
• Wedding season has officially begun! And even though it's not our wedding that is being planned (yet), it's still fun to start gathering inspiration and ideas!
• I wore white pants last week, and I'm so glad that it's finally that time of year again to start pulling out my spring and summer clothes!

ModCloth Polyvore Challenge

Hi everyone! I know, I know, I didn't post on Monday this week like I usually do, but hey, we all need a break sometimes, right? Right. I know what you're thinking: "excuses, excuses, Iman." But don't think I forgot about you all! I'm back today with something super exciting!

Last week, ModCloth reached out to me to participate in their Uniquely You Polyvore Campaign/Contest, and I am so excited! They asked me to create an ensemble around the the Shoreline Memories Dress, and I had so much fun browsing their site to design an outfit. I also may or may not have added several items to my wish list during this process!

ModCloth Shoreline Memories Dress by imans22

The first thing I thought of when looking at this dress was nautical.  The sailor-esque collar, classic print, and the yellow details...I mean, it must be called the Shoreline Memories Dress for a reason, right? But, I never like the idea of taking themes literally. So, instead of gravitating toward bright red and navy blue, I went with a softer and more nautical-inspired and Spring appropriate look. 

Shoes: What screams spring better than the color mint? No matter how many times we see it every single spring, it really never goes out of style. Mint with mustard? An unexpected combination, but one that reminds me of collecting seashells along the sunny beach.

Jewelry: Ok, so the knot bracelet may be a little bit more literal than I had hoped. But, it's subtle enough so that it doesn't make you look like you're wearing a sailor costume! Plus a little knot detail and some gold sparkle never hurt anyone. The earrings tie in with the mint in the wedges, and don't they remind you of the helm (steering wheel) of a ship?!

Purse: I love the color blocking in this bag. The black complements the black print of the dress, while the light brown helps soften the look to work with the mint details. And how cute is the floral detailing that picks up on the mint shoes and jewelry? And of course, the little gold bow is simply perfect for a bit of sparkle to match the jewelry. 

Hope you all enjoy my outfit!

Sparkly Simple Nothings

My day planner for 2014

On my drive back to my apartment last night, I was lucky enough to see the Disney Land fireworks show. It was brief, since I was driving past them (and had to keep my eyes on the road), but there's something about these loud, colorful bursts of light that never fails to make me smile. It's almost as if those 10 minutes of the fireworks show drown out everything else, and remind you that there are still bright and happy things in life. 

So, inspired by the glittering lights in the sky (and the Oscars last night of course), I decided to share some of my current favorite sparkly things, since there is never a such thing as too much sparkle!

And since it's Monday, and we all need a little extra inspiration, my (and the rest of the internet's) current fav quote: 

"No matter where you're from, your dreams are valid" ~Lupita Nyong'o, Oscars 2014

Clutches and weddings: 2 sparkly things I can't get enough of

Gold glitter die-cut letters showing my sentiments for these bright lipsticks- Can you tell I'm ready for Spring?!

This necklace that I somehow manage to match with everything!