little piece of chic

chic happens

wrap queen

Every Christmas I always wait until Christmas Eve to wrap allll my presents. Not sure why, just really good at procrastinating but not this year!! I am loving this gold/black reversible wrapping paper I got from American Greetings on Amazon(linked at bottom). Whoever created reversible wrapping paper was really thinking! I love how many different patterns I can choose from for such a good price. Read below for details about my Christmas pjs!

Each year I wrap gifts, I like to pick a theme for them so they all coordinate/match well together. That might sound silly but it motivates me to wrap them in a cute, thoughtful way. I highly recommend wrapping your gifts as opposed to using gift bags. It is just more thoughtful and special to open! I got these fun gold metallic bows from TJMaxx and found similar below ready to shop!

One of my favorite parts about the holidays is time spent in comfy, festive pjs with family and friends drinking hot coco and watching cheesy Hallmark movies. It just really puts me in the Christmas spirit and makes me feel like a kid again. The fair isle pj pants are from Gap last year but I found some just like them below! I love the pattern, style and material. They are SOOO soft and thin which is good if you get hot at night like me. I always love wearing a comfy, simple sweater with pj pants to keep warm! This sweater is the perfect winter staple because it can be worn casual like so or easily dressed up with a scarf and coat for a night out! Last but not least, these slippers are EVERYTHING! My mom(I mean Santa) got me and my sister these 2 Christmases ago and I am still wearing them nonstop and they look just as new as when I first got them. They are totally worth the price and they can be worn like I am here or folded down to show off the sherpa interior. Definitely a great stocking stuffer or treat yo self gift.

Happy wrapping y’all!!

XOXO, LPOC

 

Thanks to American Greetings for the fun wrapping paper!

Our First Christmas

It is our first Christmas as a married couple and our first Christmas in our own home and I had SOO much fun decking our halls(though they may be small). I am here to show you that you can still make your home feel festive and fun even if it is small! I will be sharing how I styled our bar cart, decorated our “mantle” and our tree and will share all of the links to shop any item you see at the bottom!

First up, our coffee station. This was such a fun spot to decorate! I already had the black pitcher and sugar/creamer cups but added these adorable wooden trees, reindeer thermos & hot coco packets from Trader Joe’s for the cold nights with Hallmark movies!

Bar cart: If you don’t have one of these in your home/apartment, you are MISSING out! I love changing it up for each season/holiday and this has got to be my favorite so far! Read below for how I styled my bar cart for Christmas!

So the top of our bar cart is for decor/candles/wall art/etc while the bottom is actually putting the cart to use! For this holiday bar cart, I wanted to mix both old and new with the classic Christmas truck sign I scored at TJMaxx along with this metal house that lights up at night, so cute and festive! I added some metallics to bring in some more current styles with this gold reindeer and gold sparkly faux candlestick(from the dollar section at Target)! I then added this plaid candle: Holiday Berry along with the little faux Christmas tree that I got for $5 at Target(everything is linked below). My favorite part is these starry lights that I added on to add something new to our bar cart. I absolutely love how it all turned out. These lights were also in the dollar spot and they are battery operated.

Just like the bar cart, for our kitchen, I knew I liked the Christmas decor that combined old, traditional Christmas with new, modern holidays style. I am a very indecisive person(ask anyone who knows me) so why not combine your Christmas styles?! I wanted some fun holiday glasses/plates for Christmas parties and for decor because we have glass cabinets! I found these mistletoe glasses and original Christmas tree mugs from TJMaxx and have linked similar ones at the bottom of this post. I added some fun Santa appetizer plates(Target dollar section) and kept my usual wine glasses, jadeite and pitchers to add some height and color.

For our Christmas tree, I love white/black ornaments to contrast with the green tree. I found these cuties from Target as well(because where else). They are such a fun style and match with our stockings.

Besides the bar cart, coffee tables are my second favorite thing to decorate for the different seasons. We already had this gold/white tray that we just change up for each holiday. I found this plaid wood tray at the Target dollar section and it fit perfectly inside of our white tray to add a pattern to our coffee table. I then added these wooden trees(just like the ones on our coffee stand). I love how simple they are and for some reason, they remind me of Elf. I always have to have a candle on our coffee table and this one is from last year at Target!

I don’t know why, but a cute pair of dish towels makes me way tooo happy. I love these both so much and love the combo of stripes/mistletoe. I found the mistletoe one at Target dollar section but the striped towel is actually Kate Spade and I have the exact one linked at the bottom of this post.

Here is our faux mantle, all we need is the yule log on tv and we’d be golden. Because we live in an apartment, we have to make do with our entertainment center as our mantle for our stockings. Target has the metal anchors for stocking that blend in perfectly with out tv stand! I just added some greenery around it and our stockings are from Hearth and Hand(Target) as well. I love the patterns and colors of our stockings, not to mention that they are $13!!(get yours below).

Last, but not least, our Christmas tree! My husband says our tree is definitely a girl because she has a bow AND a skirt, haha. I opted for a bow instead of a star/other tree topper to change it up a little. I love this bow and the cute plaid pattern! This is our first Christmas tree and because our apartment is pretty small, we opted for a 6′ tree AND it was only $30?!?! Best deal on a tree I’ve seen. It is a skinny tree but if you work the branches and spread them out, it looks full! I linked it below if you need a good small sized tree on a budget.

Again, I like old and new styles for Christmas and this wood beaded garland in red reminds me of my Nanny’s tree. It has a fun, vintage feel to it and I only needed 2 packages to wrap our tree in it. I then added our starry ornaments and love the contrast of white with the green tree. I found our tree skirt that says believe in the Target dollar section(I keep them in business). I couldn’t find the exact one but linked similar skirts below!

TADAH!

I hope this was helpful and gave you some ideas on how to deck your halls at home!

Thanks so much for reading, shop any of these items below!

XOXO, LPOC

 

 

sweet stuff

Who else is confused on how May got here?! I cannot believe that I only have one month left of my first year of teaching. In exactly one month, it is summer! This year has taught me so much and I have fallen in love with my profession. This week is National Teacher Appreciation Week so give your favorite teachers a shout out and let them know how much you appreciate them!

On a more important note, with the stress of finals for some or the hustle and bustle of a busy work week, we all need a break to take a minute to just breathe and step away from the to-do lists and screens. For this Home Chic Home post, I am sharing my current favorite cookbook, The Sprinkles Baking Book by Candace Nelson. Since we are all feeling’ stressed, why not some cookies to lighten the mood?! Anything in relation to Sprinkles Cupcakes is a win in my book and I just love this chocolate chip cookie recipe.

Anyone else crave sweets when they are stressed?! Deliver some to friends so you don’t indulge in too many yourself and your friends will love you forever. It’s a win win! Shop this amazing cookbook on Amazon below along with my favorite recipe box & whisk.

Stay sweet, LPOC

April: Try something new!

Happy April! I am excited to share a new Home Chic Home post with you! This month of change in the weather and transitioning into spring has me wanting to try new things in all areas of my life! Today, I want to share some ways I change up my style by trying things out of my comfort zone and how that can transition into other areas of your life! Let’s try something new together, read below for more…

My style continually evolves as I grow older and feel more comfortable in my own skin. Lately, I have been all about wearing something I never thought I would. One thing I remember always saying was, “You will never catch me in flared jeans.” Well, here I am sharing this look with you with jeans way out of my comfort zone. These cropped, flared jeans are frayed at the bottom and are now one of my favorite pieces in my closet. I love how they are different and add an extra something to my look. I have linked these jeans below with LTKIt!

Another thing that is in style but may be intimidating to try is block heels. These shoes really make a statement and may be something you are not used to. However, they are SO comfy because they have a lot of support and they are my favorite shoe to pair with these jeans. I have never worn green, suede wedges before but I am loving them!

To finish off my look, I added a simple black tank to tuck into my jeans. I layered this patterned jacket over my top to add some texture to my look. I scored this jacket from Buffalo Exchange in Charlotte but it is originally from Old Navy! I love how it is so different and fun and what it adds to such a simple look. I accessorized my look with my fossil tan watch, black statement necklace and a simple black cross body bag that I have linked below. Because my outfit had so many different things going on, I wanted my accessories to stay neutral and simple. Read below for how you can try something new at home, in your life or with your style!

April: Let’s try something new!

  1. Wear something out of your comfort zone!
  2. Try a new workout class: yoga, barre3, etc.!
  3. Change up your space: redecorate your room, move furniture around or clean out your clutter!
  4. Plant something! It is spring and it is always so fun to grow something, I opt for succulents(less work and they live forever!)
  5. Be a tourist in your own city: Pinterest a fun brunch or dinner place, shop at a new store or explore a new part of town you haven’t ventured to before!
  6. Start a new devotional or listen to a new playlist on Spotify

I just attended the Sparrow Women’s conference in Dallas and am feeling super empowered and inspired to be a more faithful woman and love others better. What is something you want to start fresh this spring? I would love to hear your thoughts!

Here’s to a fresh start to spring, let’s try something new!

Thanks for reading and stopping by, have a great rest of your Sunday,

XOXO, LPOC

March: Spring cleaning

Happy March 1st! I cannot believe how fast February flew by, I am beyond excited for spring break coming up but have a lot of things on my to do list before then! Since it is the first month of spring, I thought I’d share a spring cleaning tip that you must try! I am not a fan of cleaning, but cleaning out my closet is something I am a fan of! When I start to run out of hangers in my closet, I know it’s time. Read below for my tips and tricks for cleaning out your closet, I guarantee you and your closet will feel better…

I recently bought a clothing rack from Ikea after seeing so many cute pictures of other bloggers featuring their seasonal favorites on them. I found this clothing rack at Ikea for only $12! I love how chic it looks in a bedroom and how practical it is! It clears up space in your closet and allows you to showcase your favorites for the season.

During the changing of seasons, it is always good to refresh and clean your home & clear your head! One way I clear my head is through cleaning, which might sound crazy but putting my life back in order helps me slow down. My favorite thing to clean is my closet. My closet is my happy place but it can be such a mess. I like to clean out my closet about 4 times a year, ditching the clothes I haven’t worn in over 2 years and selling them to a local resale shop. Whatever the resale shop doesn’t purchase, I donate the rest to CCA or Salvation Army.

My tips on cleaning out your closet & resetting your wardrobe:

  1. 2 year rule: If you haven’t worn it in over 2 years, it’s time to say goodbye!
  2. Put on your fav Spotify playlist and get to cleaning. I stuff my passes in trash bags to haul to Clothes Mentor or Plato’s Closet.
  3. If you are like me, you have about 7 striped shirts and 10 denim tops. Pick your favorite 2 or 3 and ditch the rest, less is more!
  4. Recycle your clothes in your community to a local resale shop and earn quick cash, it is the best feeling to have a clean closet & a full wallet!

Here’s to a clean closet, a happy heart & a chic home! Check back next month for another Home Chic Home post…

XOXO, LPOC

 

February: DIY Valentine

I cannot believe we have reached February?! This past month has just flown by and we are already in the second month of the new year. I just love the month of February and I am so excited to share with you this simple way to show someone you love just how much you love them. When reading through the DIY’s and ideas for the month of February in The Year of Cozy book(linked below), I came across this idea to write handwritten notes and I knew I had to share! Ditch the store bought Valentine cards and cheesy notes and design your own handwritten notes that will mean that much more…


February is one of my favorite months out of the year! I love watching romantic comedies, eating lots of chocolate, galentine’s day and of course spending it with that special someone! Being right after Christmas and New Year’s, it is always good to save money and DIY something! I love the idea of making your own Valentine’s notes to your bff, bf or just anyone special in your life that needs some love! But really, when is the last time you have received a handwritten note from someone? It was such the thing to do in elementary school and we suddenly stop writing and now we can snapchat or text someone something thoughtful. I know that something handmade and thought out would make my day and I am sure it would make yours!

So grab some fun Valentine’s stickers from the dollar spot, your favorite pen & blank cards and get to decorating! Post a picture of your handmade Valentine’s cards on Instagram and tag me so I can see what you come up with! Send your notes in the mail to make it even more exciting, who doesn’t love getting random mail from someone they love?!

Happy February 1st!

XOXO, LPOC

January: Do Nothing!

It’s weird to think we are still in the season of winter because of the crazy weather we have been having here in TX. I find myself jumping ahead to the coming spring season. I already want to start dressing like it is warmer than it is and just realized that I need to slow things down a bit. I am always one to look ahead to something new instead of appreciating the now. This post was inspired by this chapter in my favorite coffee table book: The Year of Cozy, all about the month of January and doing absolutely nothing to enjoy the end of this winter month…

In winter, it is so nice to cozy up with a good book, movie or even good company and just stay in for once. I especially am one to be on the go and love the business in my life. However, I think that might have something to do with the stress I carry with me from day to day from never slowing down. So here is my suggestion from one busy woman to another: do nothing! Stay in on a Friday night instead of going out, start a new book or devotional, bake something & enjoy it in the comfort of your own home, slip on your coziest sweats and slippers and jam to your favorite spotify album, watch an old chick flick you haven’t seen in years, just be still & chill girl!

I hope this post has inspired you to enjoy this season we are still in, slow things down in your life & just do nothing for once!

XOXO, LPOC

New Year: New Habits

I am so excited to dive into this series with you. I will be posting a new Home Chic Home Series post each month to get your home and heart ready for the month ahead, one little piece of chic at a time…

New Year’s resolutions are so last year…I think habits are a better term! In my favorite coffee table book, A Year of Cozy, I came across this chapter all about starting good habits. It really stuck out to me and inspired me to think of new habits I need to better my own life. When something becomes a habit, it just comes naturally, so I challenge you to create a list of some New Year’s “habits” you want to tackle in 2017.

My New Year’s “Habits”:

1. Wake up each day and pray/read my devotional

2. Drink more water + workout atleast 4 days a week

3. Eat cleaner & slower

4. Change negatives into positives(stop complaining)

5. Be intentional with friends and family

6. Save 1/2 my paycheck each month

7. More yoga, less stress

Have a very happy Sunday and here’s to new habits,

XOXO, LPOC

Home Chic Home

Chic: Being a little bit better everyday

2017 is going to be my year. “The Year of Cozy.” My year to grow, learn and experience new and exciting things. I am going to be starting a monthly series on Little Piece of Chic called, Home Chic Home. You will get to follow along with me as I spread little pieces of chic throughout my home & heart, and hopefully yours as well. I will be sharing simple recipes, DIY’s, decor ideas & more to create a cozy home and a happy heart to get you through 2017 in the best way. Check back on the first of each month for a new Home Chic Home post to prepare your home and heart for the month ahead.

I will be diving into some of my favorite coffee table books like “The Year of Cozy”(pictured above and linked below) by Adrianna Adarme for inspiration each month! There is a separate tab on Little Piece of Chic just for the Home Chic Home series! I can’t wait to share my touches of chic with you…

Stay tuned for my first post of the series for the month of January coming very soon…Happy New Year!

XOXO, LPOC

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