Hello, New Decade!

January 12, 2020 Kelly Donohue

Los Angeles, CA

Hello, new decade! It's wild to think that I graduated from college 10 years ago, but I did. And while I still have so much more that I want for myself both professionally and personally, I am really happy that I have crafted out a life that works well for me.

I have certainly never followed a straight path and I always felt a little bad about that. I desperately wanted to fit myself into a box for many years of my life. I wanted to be one of those people that always knew they wanted to be a lawyer or a stand-up comedian but I never felt super strongly about one thing. I liked the idea of lots of different jobs/paths: writing, acting, journalism, and fashion (to name a few).

So when I graduated from college, I focused my attention on acting. It was an incredible journey and I met lots of my closest friends (that I still have today) in that industry, but if I was being honest with myself, I wasn't actually all that thrilled with how I felt about myself during that time. I was waiting tables, auditioning all over town, and generally unable to commit to anything (plans, vacations, partners, family, you name it). I always had to be available for the next gig, and that got draining after a few years.

I started blogging on the side of my acting career to give myself another creative outlet (that I had more control over)—check out this ancient post from 2013 for a laugh. Working on my blog opened up lots of new opportunities for me, including a career in fashion editorial/copywriting. I moved my way up and worked for a variety of fashion/lifestyle brands and eventually, I landed where I am now working on an in-house creative team for a tech company.

I haven’t completely let go of acting, either. I am still a voice-over actress! One nice thing about it is that I can often audition from home before I head into the office. And while things can get hectic some days, for the most part, I have found a setup that makes me happy in lots of different ways. It certainly isn't what I imagined would make me happy a decade ago, but I am so glad to be here now. I'm sharing this because I hope it inspires you to do what is right for you, to layout your own path, and follow whatever feels right for you (not anyone else). Only then, will you truly be happy.

Dress: Reformation

Bag: Old (similar)

Earrings: c/o Sugarfix by Baublebar

Ring: c/o J. Bubs

Gold heels: Nordstrom (similar)

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CASHMERE SWEATERS FOR THE WIN

December 27, 2019 Kelly Donohue

Boston, MA

It's nearing January, which means that there's a good chance you're starting to turn into a popsicle. So, where do you turn when it comes to your wardrobe? Sweaters. But not just any sweaters, cashmere. Ok so I know that cashmere has the long-standing reputation of being really pricy and out of reach, but it actually keeps you warmer than all the other materials you can throw on, so it's well worth the investment. When it's freezing out, forget about lightweight cotton or airy knits. Nothing looks refined, while still feeling super soft and cozy like a cashmere sweater.

And this pretty patterned one from Repeat Cashmere is quite possibly my all-time favorite sweater! It's truly an original and makes me feel inspired to hit the slopes. Do you know what I mean? I highly recommend checking out Repeat Cashmere if you haven't already. I discovered them last year and all of their pieces are incredibly well made. Oh and right now, they're having a great sale—yee!

Sweater: c/o Repeat Cashmere (on sale)

Jeans: Reformation (on sale)

Boots: c/o Rockport

Earrings: c/o Baublebar

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Work the Maxi Skirt into your Winter Mix

December 26, 2019 Kelly Donohue

Los Angeles, CA

I've been back in New Hampshire for the past week and I've been reminded just how cold it can be this time of year. Unless you're in my neck of the woods (Southern California) or some other warm southern state, chances are, the only pieces you're wearing right now are the ones that will keep you cozy. That being said, skirts are probably the last thing on your mind. But adding a longer maxi skirt to your rotation can be the change your wardrobe needs—and you won't freeze while wearing it.

Like this gorgeous satin option, maxi skirts can be paired with your coziest winter sweater for a look that's totally balanced. I wore this outfit for a Christmas party but it works for a day at the office or brunch with friends, too. Adding one or two maxi skirts to your cold-weather line-up can really help to freshen up your everyday style.