I have always loved the ring of this – Spiritual Gangster. It speaks to the philosophical and edgy side of me all at the same time, and I love it. So when I found a company that speaks to the vibe, I had to check it out and not surprisingly, I loved ALL OF IT!
With fitness and clean eating top of mind at the beginning of the New Year, I thought an overhaul of my workout clothes was in order too. Fitness with a message – I could not resist.
The collection fuses ancient wisdom with modern culture and as an Asian American, I totally get that. With catchy slogans and inspirational designs, Spiritual Gangster has a style all their own! See my favorites below.
All in a days work…right? Yeah right (insert eye roll
here)!!
As a Mom, I know firsthand that our work is NEVER done. There have been so many days where after dropping off the kids to school, I head to the gym and then run dozens of other errands before making it home. On those day I end up in workout clothes all day! Then there is the run in with ‘those moms’ at the grocery store who have their matching accessories on or ‘that friend’ that you have never seen without make up. We have written before about putting your best foot forward EVERY DAY, but there are a few fashionable short cuts that you can take so that you don’t get caught feeling less than your best ever!
This Zella top is a WINNER! This Nordstrom exclusive athletic brand really has their stuff together. This knotted top is perfect for transitioning from the gym to lunch any day. With a comfortable loose fit, it is flattering on all body types. It comes in a variety of colors and I am wearing a size Small.
Nike, Nike, and More Nike
With Spring around the corner I could not resist these floral Nike leggings, they add just enough umph to an outfit, they pair well with the Zella top I shared and of course are always on trend. I just updated my black Nikes because my old pair must have had a least 350 miles on — them I wore them so much!
Also, if you are into custom products, check out my NikeID High Tops for $100, these make a great gift and look super cute on!
Sometimes you just like what you like and if you have a pear shaped body like I do (see my post from over a year ago gushing about them here), then you will love the Victoria Sport Anytime high waisted leggings. I have worn these for as long as they have existed and own every style. I wear a Medium in regular length and have never had an issue with these pulling down at the waist, ripping, itching, or stretching. Another perk is that they have great tummy tuck and they are currently ON SALE for $15 (Normally $39.50) at VS, so try them out! You will be glad you did.
In this look, I can run all my errands in confidence and comfort! What special athleisure pieces have you invested in lately?
There used to be a time when I would dress up to get the attention of a cute guy at the bar. As I got older I watched women find themselves through fashion, fitness, family, and friendship. So much so that I started dressing for me and also kind of for them! Let me explain…
I have an amazing group of women that are always keeping me on my toes. If we go out to brunch, they put in the extra five minutes to throw on lipstick or some statement earrings. When out for drinks after a long week they manage to throw on their new shoes and own the room when they walk in. I think it is a combination of the surge of confidence that we get as we age mixed with some fashion elements, but either way – women are always ‘bringing it.’
I went to the Georgia Aquarium recently and was so proud my fellow chicks! All the Moms were on point. I am talking matching hats, bags, boots, you name it- they were rocking it. The Dads- not so much. I was so impressed at the commitment that women have to feeling great about themselves at all time.
So when I say that I do it for the ladies, what I mean is that I am NOT going to be left behind. They motivate me to get up and show up every single day. After all, how can you put your best foot forward without confidence? I admit a lot of my confidence comes from feeling ‘put together (as you can see here)’ but is that a bad thing?
This bodysuit is $8, I am wearing a size Medium and love it! My Initial Necklace that I wear everyday is from Nordies and is linked here. This knot sweater comes in so many colors and fits like a glove, for $17, its a steal! With Leopard Print Sweaters taking over my feed, I had to find one just to get me through the season, well– here it is and for $26 you can get the look for less.
Staying on top of trends in a way that does not break the bank is a great way to stay motivated to bring it each and every day. I had been dragging my feet on placing my first order with Shein. I was nervous about the quality and construction of tops that cost $8-$10! Turns out, this company is a hidden gem. I can stay on top of all the latest trends at a fraction of the cost. Check out some of the looks from my latest haul above.
Do you feel the same way I do? Do your friends help empower
you by being on top of their game?
The holiday season is in full swing, and while everybody is talking about what they’re getting for the holidays, I can’t help but to think about the upcoming new year.
The new year brings time for self reflection and high hopes for the upcoming year. One month ago I turned 36. While I consider myself young still, I’ve learned that in the last 10 years I’ve not only physically aged, but emotionally as well. Instead of a resolution, I like to think about the upcoming year in terms of reflections.
Some Reflections:
Embracing My Age
In the craziness of social media and falsified images, it’s not unusual to have moments of insecurity. I’ve learned to follow people who inspire me. People who don’t use social media as an avenue to brag, but more as a place to share and inspire. As a chick in Chicks and Salsa I try my level best to do just that.
Do something today that your future self will thank you for.
Quality Over Quantity
Back in high school popularity was defined by the number of friends you had and the number of people who were dying to be added to that list. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned that focusing on my family and small group of good friends is where I am needed and desired most. My friendships are with those that I learn from, admire, and look up to. These friends bring me up and help me continue to see the glass half full.
Slowing Down
I used often hear veteran mothers is tell me that my kids will be grown before I know it. I couldn’t agree more now, I have no idea where last 8 years have gone! I have two children, one 8 year old daughter and one 6 year old son. Every day on the way to school, the kids and I talk about the day ahead. In doing that, week after week, 8 years have quickly passed. I want to focus on slowing down…try not to fill our schedules with too many social obligations that we “should” do. Life is short and tomorrow isn’t guaranteed, so I want to make this one life count and make all the relationships I have around me meaningful.
Diet and exercise are always a part of my New Year’s reflections, duh! However, personally, I’ve learned that my relationships with others are what help me get up in the morning. I want to focus on being a good person and allowing good energy to flow around me.
