Kirsten | WhyDid.com

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WhyDid Wisdom: This Little Light of Mine

By Kirsten|October 11th, 2012|WhyDid Wisdom|

I like to say that I still have yet to peak. You see, I was never the most popular or the best looking or the president of well, anything, but I’ve always hung around some pretty extraordinary people and done some pretty noteworthy things. I really have nothing to complain about, but I can no longer deny the reason behind why I have yet to rise to the top. You see, while I’m far from failing or flailing, I’ve been happy to live just right under the surface of greatness. Right below the radar, if you will.

As I recently did a little introspection, I realized I prefer to be a bit passive and just hope that things will come to me and “work out how they are supposed to” rather than getting up and making those things happen myself. Now, I get that some will still argue that things really do work out the way they are predetermined and you can’t force anything to happen that is not meant to (aka, you can never make someone love you)–and I believe there is some truth to that. However, I find myself saying, “when this” or “when that” and basically making excuses as to why I’m not doing exactly what it is that I was put on this planet to do. Doing that not only makes me a procrastinator (and a bit of a wimp), but also means that I’m not living presently.

And while flying under the radar won’t exactly harm you, per se, it’s also not going to get you to where you want to be. If not today or tomorrow, then when? What are we waiting for? Better yet– what are we so scared of? I think Drake said it best when he so aptly stated, “YOLO.” Here’s the thing, being at the top or the forefront, you are making yourself a target. The leader of the pack is the first one to get hit by a cab. You can’t be ripped down if you’re hiding in the bushes.

By putting yourself out there in whatever context that may be (career, dating, dreams), you are making yourself vulnerable. It would seem that sometimes it’s more comfortable living in limbo than having a definitive answer. If you don’t ever try, then you can’t be rejected, right? Rejection is not an easy pill to swallow and at times I don’t think my overly sensitive soul could handle it. So, rather than excel, I coast. Even down to the way I dress sometimes. I’ll stick on my glasses just to tone down my curve hugging dress and deflect any potential attention. I’d rather be a wallflower than a centerpiece.

By selling yourself short or getting too comfortable doing the conventional thing, you will never fully become the person you want to or are meant to be. And in all honesty, it’s sort of selfish to keep your gifts all to yourself. Sure, it’s frightening to think that shining could potentially mean crashing and burning, but if you never even give yourself a shot at arson, all you’ll ever be is a big ol’ waxy wick.

So, I’m wondering: are you living the life you want? Are you living up to your full potential? Are you diving in head first or just dipping your toe in the shallow end to be safe? Are you going to look back and say, “coulda, woulda, shoulda”? Because the only thing worse than failing is wishing that you’d tried.

Come on, get your lighter out, girl. It’s time to shine.

xx,

WhyDid

Why Did or Why Don’t: Blame the French

By Kirsten|October 10th, 2012|Beauty Buzz, Why Did or Why Don't?|

Chanel’s Srping 2013 show was much buzzed about in many thanks to the biggest Chanel bag you’ll never own. Yes, that hula hoop she’s carrying is actually a very expensive beach tote. I mean, why not? How else are you gonna get your towel to the sand? It’s not going to carry itself.

Well, what was most shocking to me was not the circus like accessories, but rather the manicures on the models’ lengthy fingers. Oh yes, that’s right, they were sporting a little something that we like to call a French manicure. Now, tell me I’m not alone here when I can only associate this particular manicure with acrylic tips and tanning beds. Basically the only thing worse than a French manicure… is a French pedicure. But alas, Chanel took it there. Sure, some may call it a “classic” but to me, there is nothing modern about this classic and I’m not thoroughly convinced that this particular trend ever needs to make it back into the rotation.

A bientot.

xx,

WhyDid

images via Style.com and Elle

Why Did You Wear That: Did I Do That?

By Kirsten|October 9th, 2012|Why Did You Wear That?|

You know you’re getting old when you start saying things like, “They don’t make ’em like they used to.” Well, from time to time I wax poetic about “classic” TV and some of the shows I grew up with. Yes, I love The Nanny, Full House, and Who’s the Boss?, but let us not forget the great Family Matters starring the obnoxiously lovable, Steve Urkel. Sure, sure he spent the majority of his time chasing around Laura Winslow and in hot pursuit of cheese, but perhaps we sold this geek a bit short. No, I don’t mean his alter ego, Stefan. I’m talking about his studious style that could very well be translated into something quite cool for modern day.

1. Cutler and Gross D-Frame Acetate Optical Glasses, $470, 2. J. Crew Holden Plaid Cotton Blend Shirt, $78, 3. Steven Banx Two Tone Oxfords, $129, 4. Forever 21 Hooded Varsity Cardigan, $22.80, 5. Forever 21 Suspenders, $8.90, 6. Rag & Bone Dash Slouchy Skinny Jeans, $198,

See? suddenly Steve is looking a little less geek and a bit more chic. And if I told you I hadn’t sung late night karaoke somewhere in Koreatown with Urkel himself, that’d be a lie.

If all else fails, Halloween is just around the corner. Did I do that?

xx,

WhyDid

Setting the Mood: Forevergreen

By Kirsten|October 8th, 2012|Setting the Mood|

We’ve already identified oxblood as one of this fall’s standout shades for apparel and accessories, but there’s another hue that’s sure to be a hit this fall and will most likely stay strong straight into the winter. What might that color be? Hunter green, my friends. For quite some time I was a bit disenchanted with this particular shade (with good reason, of course). You see, my mom went through a bit of a “green” period during the 90’s and I would be willing to say about 78% or our home was decorated in dark green. Some might have called it overkill. We’ll just call it dedication. I had the same problem with baby carrots and turkey sandwiches for many years after my dad packed them in our lunches every single day for the majority of grade school.

And just like I now enjoy a great turkey sandwich, my feelings towards forest green have also come around. Fall’s deep shade of green is different than that of emerald green from seasons past. This evergreen is so dark it could appear almost black and it gives a complete look of luxe. Find a way to work it into your wardrobe with a knit maxi dress, chic bag, or soft velvet pants.

T by Alexander Wang Fine Knit Jersey Maxi Dress, $235, See by Chloe Cherry Leather Shoulder Bag, $525, Tibi Chunky Knit Sweater, $285, By Malene Birger Clesenzia Velvet Tapered Pants, $375

xx,

WhyDid

Friday Frocks: I Can Love You Sweater.

By Kirsten|October 5th, 2012|Friday Frocks, Why Did You Wear That?|

By now, it should be clear how I feel about knitwear. Cardigans, pullovers, hats, and gloves. My favorite piece of knitwear, however, is the sweater dress. By far one of the most versatile pieces of the autumnal season, it can be worn alone with a great pair of boots, with tights when the brisk breeze turns to a crisp chill, and over leggings when the snow plows start to rumble through the streets. A slouchy, soft sweaterdress is the equivalent of an oversized boyfriend shirt. It’s comfortable, easy, and altogether chic. It also has the overwhelming effect of making you look completely cuddly and I cannot be held responsible if handsome strangers have the overwhelming urge to hug you when wearing one.