Something I’ve really struggled with since graduating college is finding a workout routine. I was just as busy when I was in school, between classes, homework, blogging, and a social life, but most of those activities could be done any time of the day. Classes usually only took 2-4 hours, and I generally stacked them in the morning, leaving the afternoon free to go on runs. But now? I work most of the day, spend upwards of an hour commuting, and just want to relax by the time I get home… (Balancing everything is hard! I really can’t fathom how my coworkers are also raising families—so much respect.)
All that to say, it’s become kind of embarrassing that I never engage in any physical activity anymore. So this week I really tried to prioritize it! I think my goal moving forward is to exercise three times a week, to start. I really miss the organized sports of school, which I much prefer to the gym, so now I am trying to think of a variety of workouts to keep me interested (or at least, as interested as I can be). I’m planning on alternating between Peloton rides at my apartment’s gym, swimming laps, and running. Let me know if you have any other ideas!
Now, after that tangent, onto this week’s outfits…
Monday, June 5
I worked out before work today—now that’s commitment. I hate weight lifting, but I know it’s important, especially as I age. I never used to understand why women were self-conscious about their arms, but recently when looking at blog photos, I’ve started to notice a need for some tricep exercises, lol! Gotta get on that early…
As for today’s outfit, I’m not sure I’m in love with it. I like most of what’s going on but am tripped up by the belt—I couldn’t decide if I should do a half-tuck, knot the shirt, or leave it fully untucked. The outfit seemed too plain with the top loose, so I tucked it in all around—I think it looks a little stuffy though. What say you?
Lime Green Collared Shirt: JCPenney, $20 ($1.67 per wear), last worn here | Cropped Flared Jeans: Express, $25 ($0.93 per wear), last worn here | Denim Flats: JCrew Factory, $20 ($1.54 per wear), last worn here | Belt: Vendor at a Saturday market, last worn here
Tuesday, June 6
I love this outfit, so simple and cute! My red Rothy’s are really comfy and I definitely think the shoe brand is worth the hype (even though they’re expensive). I wish I had Rothy’s in every color… In my attempt to get back into a fitness routine, I swam laps after work today. I hope it was a good enough workout (I could only muster half an hour), but I sure was exhausted at the end of it!
Gingham Dress: Envy Boutique, $21 ($0.95 per wear), last worn here | Red Flats: Rothy’s, gift
Wednesday, June 7
I’ve worn this outfit a few times before but haven’t reached for it in a year or two—I love all the blues together! I gave a presentation on cartography at work today, as I am the resident mapmaker on our team and wanted to provide some details about the mapmaking process. I was really nervous but I think the presentation went well!
After work, my boyfriend and I went to our regular Wednesday night trivia and two friends joined. It turned into way too late of a night for a Wednesday but it was fun nonetheless.
Pinstripe Polka Dot Top: JCPenney, $20 ($1.18 per wear), last worn here | Textured Skirt: Francesca’s, $38 ($2.11 per wear), last worn here | Blue Flats: Sam Edelman via DSW, $5 ($0.19 per wear), last worn here
Thursday, June 8
I was so tired today after our late night so it was a little difficult getting through the workday—I slept in a little but then worked late to make up the hours. I decided to throw on this polka dot dress and jean jacket for something simple.
Polka Dot Dress: Hand-me-down, last worn here | Denim Jacket: JCPenney, $19 ($0.10 per wear), last worn here | White Espadrilles: DSW, $45 ($0.62 per wear), last worn here
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Friday, June 9
I fully intended on working out today (and therefore only threw on workout clothes) but somehow never got around to it! My boyfriend and I were supposed to go out with some friends tonight, but after our plans were cancelled last-minute, I didn’t mind spending a quiet night in.
Saturday, June 10
I ran some errands this morning and then unexpectedly spent the whole afternoon baking that gluten-free German chocolate cake I shared on Instagram (recipe here). I enjoy baking so I had fun, but it was a very involved process! I’m not sure I would make the cake again unless someone specifically requested it.
My brother and sister-in-law were driving through town and spent the night with me—it was so nice to see them! I taught my boyfriend how to play Euchre so the four of us played late into the night.
Black Top: Nordstrom Rack, $15 ($0.65 per wear), last worn here | Denim Shorts: H&M, $25 ($1.00 per wear), last worn here | White Espadrilles: DSW, $45 ($0.62 per wear), last worn here
Sunday, June 11
After seeing my guests off in the early morning, I joined one of my girlfriends at her wedding dress shopping appointment! As someone who grew up watching “Say Yes to the Dress,” it was very exciting to finally see a bunch of glittery ballgowns in person. I originally imagined getting dolled up and wearing my new sundress that I recently thrifted, but it was very gloomy out with flashflood warnings—so I opted for an edgy jeans outfit instead. I somehow found the will to drag myself to the gym in the afternoon to cross off my third workout of the week!
Also, today marked one year since I graduated college… I cannot believe how fast time is flying.
Floral Top: Nordstrom Rack, $20 ($0.69 per wear), last worn here | Leather Jacket: Blank NYC via local boutique, $25 ($0.42 per wear), last worn here | Straight-Leg Jeans: Express, $15 ($0.83 per wear), last worn here | Snakeskin Booties: Thrifted, $11 ($1.83 per wear), last worn here
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Which of these outfits is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below, and I hope you have a great rest of your day!
Miles of smiles,
Grace