Kansas City Fashion Week

Kansas City Fashion Week! Really, that's all I have to say! This year was a bit different...I have always had a "date" as in a bestie going with me but this year, a man date! And this guy loves fashion about as much as I do.  Front row, VIP seats and an awesome show made this year very exciting. Friday night included some amazing designs and although I wasn't able to attend the show Saturday night, I was invited to an after-party by one of the designers.  His name, Christian Micheal, a local KC guy, who designs a line of men's wear that is runway stunning.  I was fortunate to meet Christian pre-fashion week to purchase one of his amazing ties for my date...I thought it was pretty genius and the perfect accessory.

Let the outfit planning begin, it had to be on point...let's be real...have you met me? So over coffee and many discussions on colors, we decided I needed to find my attire first.  I found the perfect Navy Blue dress with side and back cut-outs...so I asked Christian, what shoe color? I was struggling with that. Black, definitely black.  Perfect. I found a classic black pair of Calvin Klein pumps.  The tie was chosen based on the dress color and then his outfit went from there.  Typing about this still makes me so happy, because, not to brag or anything, but I had the best looking date there.  Someone who I once told, "You are the first person to challenge my wardrobe"....challenge accepted.  Did I mention, CM is working a women's line? I just died and went to heaven!

Friday night meant staying close to Union Station where Fashion Week is held, so Hotel Sorella on the Plaza it was. Modern, Bright, Cheery and the perfect place to stay overnight...they have an amazing bar and happy hour and let's not forget breakfast the next morning.  Best calamari ever.

KCFW never disappoints and this year was amazing.  I ran into a lot of people I know from other events and it was nice to mingle with local friends of the Fashion World in fantastic Kansas City! I am already looking for forward to the Fall show which will include Spring Fashion...and you can bet it'll be front row all the way!

Hotel Sorella

KCFW

 My friend and local KC blogger, Sarah. 

 The man behind the tie, Christian Micheal, at his after-party. 

Until the next show!
xoxo,
Shona

Happy New Year #2016

If you read my last blog post, you will relate to this one!  What got me through the year of #2015! My favorite things, people, places, life and Kansas City events!  I seriously could not have made it otherwise.  So here we go!

1. Friends, and I mean a lot of them! Each offering me something different that made me realize I can handle anything thrown my way.  Whether they were handing me a sandwich to make me eat, tucking me into bed to make sure I had sleep, offering advice, throwing one back with me, or just sitting with me in silence...the #1 life saver.

2. Family, it's a different kind of help and support. Family is there for you and it's just expected I guess.  Some were, some weren't, but those that were...their love and support didn't go unrecognized. From helping me move, to letting me live with them (thanks Mom and Phil), to letting my dog out, running errands for me, listening, just being there whenever I needed something.  Offering advice, opening ways for me to see life in a different perspective, these people were there too.

3. Vacations, just getting away is something that always helps me to cope.  I may have over did it a tad in Vegas...oops, but hey, I get a freaking pass for that one!  Colorado twice, Iowa, Lake trips and pool time...although still in KC...I imagined I was at the beach with the salt water pool, it was just what I needed.  Lots of sonic drinks during Happy Hour for sure! I am blaming Shannon for that addiction.

4. Patios, yes, it's true. Nothing better then a warm summer night, a cold beer, fire pits, and good company! I just love Coaches, Brewtop, Maloneys...and a few others! Whether it was watching the Royals...hollaaaa or just relaxing, it's one of my favorite things to do! 

5. Coffee shops or just coffee on my couch, it's one of the ways I like to start my day! It either meant long talks or just being able to stay up to study. I love a good cup of joe!

6. Vodka, yep, it's there.  Shannon and I definitely made some adjustments...we all want fewer calories, right?  Leave it to us, we know what we are doing...and already planning #summa2016 #bereadypool #summashorts

7. The ROYALS!!!!!   I am so excited for Opening Day 2016 and it all started last year with Opening Day 2015...tailgating with friends! Going to the game, watching them on the best patios in the city...there are a few that I am partial to, or just tailgating in the parking lot...I love baseball! These pics could go on for days!!!  #crowntown #countingdownthedays

8. My New Apartment, at first I was upset about having to move into a one bedroom apartment...I have a lot of stuff..I mean, clothes and shoes and apparently an addiction to kitchen glasses...but I made it my own.  Some people would love to be where I am at, so I am thankful for my place! It's all mine...well sort of!

9. Nursing School, getting accepted was one of the best things that has happened to me. New career in the works, new friends, new connections...nursing is where I was meant to be! One semester down, three to go!

10. Alone time..I have to admit, at first, I wasn't a fan. But I have learned to love just sitting in my apartment, reading a book, having that cup of coffee, catching up on some tv, working out or just doing normal household chores...all of that is ok!

So here's to #2016!  It is going to be awesome!
Xoxo,
Shona