Chin Up
11 Nov
I don’t often like to use this blog as a place to complain about life when things don’t go my way, but last month, with this post, I pledged I’d to go back to being more open and honest on here. Recently I am finding that being single and living alone in a big city, with a demanding job and a laundry list of responsibilities, ain’t always a cakewalk. The days where I wake up less than inspired and confused about the path I am on have become more frequent…which at times makes finding the motivation to take on new challenges a hard and scary thing. Do you guys ever feel that way??
I am still madly in love with Manhattan, and realize how fortunate I am to be living here. Hard as it may be at times, not a day goes by where I don’t have one of those surreal “aha” moments as I take in the incredible city that surrounds me. But I have undoubtedly entered into a new chapter – just shy of a year here, and I’m starting to think that maybe the honeymoon phase is coming to a close. This love affair is far from over, but perhaps it’ll just be less of a fairytale than I’d initially expected. It might not be sunshine and rainbows all the time, but the ups and downs are what keep life interesting. I am learning that even a bad day has its good moments…sometimes you just need to look a little harder for them.
*head to toe: Sunglasses from Sosie, Zara jacket, Bella Dahl chambray shirt, Louis Vuitton purse, Karen London Alexandria ring, Marc Allison jeans, Opening Ceremony shoes
Photos by Lydia Hudgens
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Comments 51 Comments
Sending big hugs from San Francisco! My mid-20′s were by far my toughest (and most fun) years. Try to enjoy the crazy ride. It doesn’t last forever. Thinking of you!
XX Lindsay
Thrifted & Modern
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Laura I just started following your blog recently and this post really struck home for me, as well as for so many others that I have seen here. I live in Seville, Spain and I love it here but sometimes I feel so alone and far away from my family and everything that I have always known. Also for me it helps me feel better about living here when I´m reminded that it´s not all bright lights and glamour even in NYC. Sometimes I think “oh if I could only move to NYC” but it´s important to remember that every city / place has its pros and cons and the key to hapiness is finding your niche wherever you are. I look forward to reading more of your posts and thanks for being so refreshingly honest.
Kate
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Have to say, reading your little tid bit here really brightened my day. Moved to NY about a month ago and I do completely love it here. But I am facing a few challenges along the way (ie: finding a new job, and various other things). Just felt compelled to say thanks for making me feel human. Really love your blog and personal style- very laid back but a major modern feel. Hope your 25th was fabulous.
Best,
Sloan
http://sloansymington.blogspot.com/
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Having just gotten out of a 7 year relationship myself, I find that mornings are the hardest. But that is why it is so important to make plans and stay busy. Try not to let your emotions dictate your mood. I got myself a therapist. having an unbiased third party really helps me recognize who I am and what I want. I need that daily affirmation that I’m going to be okay, and I find that peace in the little things– a new pair of shoes, a great song, the perfect cocktail. Friends. My little min pin, Stella. Yoga. A gentle daily reminder to be kind to myself and clear my head. and most of all, it’s okay to be bored. that is the hardest one for me to overcome, but I’m working on it.
I appreciate your honesty and confessions and look forward to your future posts♥
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Laura Reply:
November 14th, 2012 at 9:04 am
Thanks for the sweet and supportive comment, Denise! I appreciate you being so open and honest, too — it is comforting to know there are people out there who can relate. Wishing you all the best. <3
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Hey,
I haven’t been following your blog for long but your last post about being honest really struck a chord with me. I moved to the city for college and being from down south it was such a big change. For nearly a year, I wanted to move back. Since then, I’ve fallen in love with the city and now I appreciate it for what it is but I most definitely see things that I DON’T love.
I always thought and wondered how weird it was that I could feel so alone in such a large city. After college, it’s hard to meet new people–especially when people are so focused and involved with their own busy lives and honestly, the city can be overwhelming and stressful. But I’m confident (and hopeful) that there are great people all around (whether it be romantic or platonic)and it’s just a matter of finding them. Good luck with everything. You’re definitely not alone in how you feel.
:)
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lots of others have said it on here, but it truly is part of being in your (our) 20′s. if you never had moments of doubt and confusion you wouldn’t still be growing as a person. embracing it and pulling creative energy from those moments make us stronger individuals and helps lead you to where you are going. i lived in nyc for 2 years, so i can understand how easy it is to get overwhelmed in a place so full of energy. just embrace the good and the bad, it makes you who you are.
http://reversealienengineering.com
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I definitely experience feelings of confusion about the path I’m on on more occasions than I’d like to admit – I think it’s part of being in your 20s to be honest! Living in a new place can be so exciting, but also SO hard at times, and while New York gives a lot, she takes a lot out of you too. Kudos to you for taking on that challenge.
As a sidenote, you look gorgeous here – loving the denim on denim with that jacket.
Sea and Swank
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You look beautiful as always Laura! I love your honesty. I’ve definitely been going through similar feelings about life and relationships. It can be pretty damn overwhelming. Just know you’re not alone and I admire you taking on New York the way that you have!
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love this look! you are fantastic!
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Great coat!
xo Jennifer
http://seekingstyleblog.wordpress.com
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I have definitely had those days when I’m confused about my path & less than motivated. But when those feelings set in, I really try to embrace the little triumphs throughout my day. I have a small chalkboard in my room and I recently wrote the quote “Don’t ever lose sight of the things that make you truly happy in life.” Thanks for your honesty!
xo,
Nat
http://www.natseesstyle.com
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Laura Reply:
November 13th, 2012 at 8:23 am
Love that!! Sometimes we need those simple reminders — the chalkboard idea is so great. :)
xoxo Laura
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I’m new to your blog but it’s now one of my favorites! I totally know what you mean about the city. I’ve been here over 2 years and I never really went through the honeymoon phase. I’m still waiting for it which makes me wonder if I wouldn’t be better off somewhere kinder too. Hang in there! One day at a time. xo
Best, M.
http://fadedmstyle.com
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I’ve been here just shy of eight years and I knew after two that I’d never be able to live here forever. It’s tough, isolating, lonely, and occasionally just plain rude. You’ll never lose that passion for the city (whenever I leave, I’m always itching to come back) but I picture myself somewhere a little kinder. My advice to you is to Google “Goodbye to All That by Joan Didion.” If you’ve never read it, it’ll speak directly to your soul. If you’ve already read it, you’ll remember how incredible it is. Stay positive! Even if you move away, you’ll always feel really proud of yourself for being successful in the most dynamic city on earth.
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Laura Reply:
November 13th, 2012 at 8:22 am
Thanks for the sweet and honest comment, Lauren — appreciate it! And I am going to look into this book right now! I am flying home to California for Thanksgiving and could use a good read for the plane. :)
Thank you again!
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Lauren E. Reply:
November 14th, 2012 at 7:19 am
And you’re from California?! You’ll die for it. The whole book is a collection of essays called “Slouching Toward Bethlehem.” The essay I mentioned is just a personal fave. Enjoy!
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Love the look. Jeans are fabulous on you! First in San Francisco, now in New York- they look great. So happy to see them again!
All things change- hang in there- it will change again!
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Keep your head up. Although NYC has more people than any other city in this country, it can definitely feel like you are the only one here sometimes. My advice is to get involved in something you enjoy, and you are bound to meet a lot of great people who have similar interests as you. This is my 5th year in the Big Apple, and I cannot seem to tear myself away from it. It’s definitely had ups and downs, but NY has my heart for sure.
-Gina Notes
http://www.popcornandpandas.wordpress.com
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I felt that way too, I think everyone feel like that sometimes. Bad days are gonna happen so one of the best way to deal with them is thinking you have new days ahead of you. You have to focus in the good moments, in the moments you still thinking the city is amazing and you have one of those ‘aha’ times as you called them :)
The look is amazing! I really love the mix between the jacket and denim!
xxx
- Laura
http://ucouldbemysomeone.blogspot.com
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Laura Reply:
November 12th, 2012 at 7:59 am
Thank you, Laura!! Trying to focus on the positive and stay excited about whats to come. :)
Hope you had a nice weekend!
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That denim shirt is absolutely amazing in this look !
http://fashionramble.com
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So true! But you look fab while you’re at it!! Xx Rebecca
http://raspberry-rouge.com
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love your jacket!!! ;) xo, Alma
http://www.soulofashopper.com
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Oh, please! You are NOT complaining : )
Life is like a roller coaster, girl. But you’re right…keep your beautiful chin up! Things will get better!!
April
Knocked Up Fabulous
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hey!!!
i totally know what you mean! i moved away from ‘home’ about a year and a half ago…to beijing of all places! it’s hard. it’s effing hard. i know. but endurance and perseverance will pay off! just keep your head up high and keep doing what you’re doing!
bisous!
xo
v
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Laura Reply:
November 12th, 2012 at 8:03 am
Thanks, Vanessa!! Moving to Beijing must have been SO scary…to be that far away from home. But I loved watching the journey on your blog! :)
Hope you are doing well, girl!
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At least you look great!
I need those sunnies!
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Such a super chic look! Love the denim on you. x
http://www.TheFancyTeacup.com
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Stay positive! You have accomplished so much!
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Keep your head up Laura. Just think, everyone in the world wants to be in NYC, including me! You look great! We’re all experiencing our own little less than honeymoon stage!!
xx, alexia > In The Meantime
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I completely know how you feel!! Though, I have to say it doesn’t just happen in New York. I live in Nashville and am going though the same things. I think it is hard sometimes to be a busy, independent and single girl. There is no one there to half the responsibilities or to come home to complain and get comforted by. Though, I normally notice that great changes always follow these low times. So, be excited for them!! Love you honesty and your outfit!!!
Krista
http://Www.junkindiggingettinlost.com
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Laura Reply:
November 12th, 2012 at 8:05 am
Thanks, Krista!! I know the feelings are not totally uncommon. It is nice to hear someone gets it!! :)
By the way, I think I am planning a trip to Nashville soon – so excited, I have never been!
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Love the jacket! Keep your head up.It’s especially harder for those of us pursuing a career in fashion. Things don’t stay sucky forever.
xx,
Vanessa
stylebeautysole-vanessa.blogspot.com
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Can I just say you looking f*cking sexy!! I’m so proud of you and ou inspire me everyday to keep pushing!! I feel lucky to call you a friend and know you are tough enough to handle whatever is thrown at you!! Keep your head up girl. Haha. Also please come visit sf! Love you.
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Laura Reply:
November 12th, 2012 at 8:06 am
Thanks, Sam!! And I feel the same way. Love and miss you so much. <3
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Love your perspective of life ! There’s always good somewhere, even if sometimes we have to dig a little deeper ! Love the outfit !
My Blog – A Pretty Nest
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Great outfit & bag!!!
http://www.hottheels.blogspot.com/
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I really love reading your blog and I totally get what you’re saying. It can be so scary and overwhelming but you gotta trust that your decisions are the right ones. I really do wish you all the happiness in the world :)
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Laura Reply:
November 12th, 2012 at 8:08 am
Thanks so much for the sweet comment, Aisha. Taking it day by day and trying to do just as you said – trust that I am making the right decisions as I go!!
Hope you had a nice weekend!! xoxo
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I really love reading your blog and I totally get what you’re saying. It can be so scary and overwhelming but you gotta trust that your decisions are the right ones. I really do wish you all the happiness in the world :)
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amazing jacket!
Bises,
monkeyshines
http://monkeyshines-monkeyshines.blogspot.com/
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this is so fab!
xoxo from rome
K.
kcomekarolina.com
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It’s okay to have these feelings and def to share them.
Keeping them in doesn’t help at all. Never let anyone tell you, you should hide them or push them away. These feelings are real, experience them, but never forget to search for your momnt to snap out of it, don’t let the feelings drag you in. Find your (new) happiness, I know you can. There is so mich to be thankfull for, although it’s tough at times.
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Laura Reply:
November 12th, 2012 at 8:09 am
Thanks, Ellen!! You are so right – there is a lot to be grateful for. And being optimistic and looking forward is super important! Trying to snap out of it. ;)
xo
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how on earth could you possibly be single?!!! glad to know you’re human like the rest of us :)
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I totes agree. It’s a hard life. I feel at times that I too, rant on my blog about my problems. Everyone has them and that’s okay! Hope things get better for you :(
P.S. that jacket is AMAZING and I want one!
xo
http://hautecouture3.blogspot.com
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what a great look! love the sunnies :)
chocolatefashioncoffee.blogspot.com
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first of all nice casual outfit and secondly it is nice to see a fashion blogger commit to their feelings, since it always looks so perfect and gives of a vibe that can make readers uncomfortable and feel unfortunate at times. So nice to see that it isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, even for famous fashion bloggers ;)
xx Kate
The Style Department
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Laura Reply:
November 12th, 2012 at 8:16 am
Thank you so much for the comment, Kate. I am lucky to have sweet ppl like you who I am able to open up to and share my feelings with! It is far from sunshine and rainbows, but I am trying to stay positive and make the best of things!! :)
xo Laura
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I’m sorry that you have those moments, but everybody has them. You just go through it eventually…
I have moments, days when I feel completely uninspired, stressed out, occupied with millions of questions
in my head about my life and stuff, but then, before I even realize it, I’ve been inspired by some moment and
it feels wonderful :)
http://lartoffashion.blogspot.com
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