This year has been filled with many ups and downs. Even though 2016 was one of the hardest years of my life, it also brought with it some amazing opportunities and changes. Here’s a recap of some of my favorite moments, outfits, and the real side of becoming a full-time blogger.
1 ) The Peru Takeover
Taking over Liketoknow.it for the day and sharing my favorite places in Peru was truly a life changing experience as a blogger. I felt incredibly honored to share this amazing country and some beautiful outfits. (Like the dress I’m wearing above, which is available again!)
2 ) The opening of 21c Museum Hotel OKC
So why would I be so excited about the opening of a hotel? For many reasons! It represents the growth of Oklahoma City but also because I’m an art major I love how they blend art and hospitality. Even if it wasn’t in OKC, I would still say it’s one of my favorite hotels. (We also stayed at their Bentonville location and had an absolute blast! See it here.)
Ps. The dress I’m wearing is still available and also makes a cute top.
3 ) Dorado Beach
I could almost do my whole recap on this one dreamy resort. I’ve never visited something so incredible. (The spa alone, what you see above, is FIVE ACRES in size!) Look back at our stay here.
4 ) San Juan
It was my first trip to Puerto Rico and I was amazed at how beautiful and charming old San Juan is. Every photo we took seemed like it came from a Pinterest travel board! It was a feast for the eyes! See all the colorful photos here.
5 ) Napa with One Small Blonde
When Brooke of One Small Blonde invited me to celebrate her birthday in Napa I couldn’t say no! I learned so much about the area and I can’t wait to go back. Thank you Brooke, let’s do it again!
6 ) Off the shoulder everything
One of my favorite outfits of 2016 was this off the shoulder button down top. I pretty much bared my shoulders for all of 2016 and I’m completely fine with that. The top above was my absolute favorite and it is now 30% off! (Ps. It’s reversible!)
7 ) This dress
If there was one dress that could embody everything I adore: it would be black and white, short, have sleeves, and some kind of peekaboo detail. So when I found this one I instantly fell in love! Even though it’s long sold out, the one below is extreme similar and just as cute.
8 ) Mr. Wonderland makes an appearance
Usually my husband is happy to remain behind the camera, so I was excited when I got to show him off for the opening of Q Clothier. We both love the concept and always enjoy dropping by for some drinks and shopping.
9 ) I became a sneaker lover
As a girl who only wears sneakers when working out, I guess you could say this was a big deal. Who knew I would start to love sneakers and wear them so much!
10 ) Madewell OKC’s 1st Birthday
I was excited to host Madewell OKC’s 1st birthday of being at Penn Square Mall. It’s one of my go-to brands for casual chic so I was honored to be asked!
11 ) The most popular outfit
I love all style that pertains to the 60s and 70s so when I saw this dress I just had to style it. Seeing it immediately gave me a 70s Gucci vibe. You all must have loved it too because it ended up being one of my most popular outfits.
12 ) Off the shoulder… Part Two
Another favorite off the shoulder top and I want it in every single color. Nuff said.
13 ) The Scarf
This scarf has been one of the most popular accessories I’ve ever featured. I’m sharing it again because the cream color is FINALLY back in stock.
14 ) Those boots
Most popular boots award goes to these. With a price tag that won’t break the bank, it’s no wonder that we all loved them.
15 ) The excitement of a New Year
We took this last photo on Thanksgiving Day, early in the morning when it was freezing (20 degrees) and no one was around. Sure it may look fabulous but things aren’t always what they seem. The start of 2016 was just plain awful. I lost my “Pop”, who I adored, and my Dad’s mother also passed. My husband and I were both laid off (from the oil and gas industry) but then some amazing things happened…
The hubbie is back working again and happier than ever. My Grandma moved in next to us and is now our neighbor. We love getting to see her every day and spend more time with her! Now I’m not one to throw around the term “blessed” but it’s been a blessing to have her here.
As for me, I took the layoff as a sign it was time to blog full-time. Since June, I”ve been working on improving content and stepping out of my comfort zone. I’m setting some goals for the New Year and I hope you all hold me to them!
First, get my YouTube channel going. Do more beauty and home content. And as always, be more organized. (The struggle is real, people!) Lastly, I want to spend more time with my family, friends, and YOU.
So cheers to a New Year and a NEW AIW. I’ve been working on some BIG surprises and I can’t wait to show you them soon!
XO Ally
xo