Tulle dress, Rodarte for Target. Cashmere cardigan, gift from my mom (Dillard's). Leather belt, vintage. Heeled boots, Bear Traps (thrifted). Purse, Target. Paper flower crown, DIY. Pictures by my mom!
I wanted to take a break from my seemingly endless "cast of characters" that I title my posts as to talk about something that has always interested me in the blogging world. While the authors of the blogs I read seem truly wonderful and fabulous based on their online representations alone, it usually takes some hefty perspective to remember that their posts aren't their lives. They don't contain the true essence of the person wearing the cute outfit.
No matter how much I wish it weren't the case, my life is a lot messier than its presented in my pictures. It's true that yes, I actually did wear that floral crown and dress on a day full of errands. And yes, I really did practice my new ukulele at a local park. But truth be told, without the support (and don't forget indulgence, I certainly don't) of people like my mother and Reid, my life wouldn't seem nearly as photogenic.
Sometimes I think I get so caught up in making sure that my life looks good "on film" that I don't necessarily have as good of a time as I would just relaxing. While I might be the type of person to enjoy the experiences that usually end up being photogenic (for instance, searching for abandoned houses), I sometimes include "must be able to take cute pictures" as a standard for my outings. I haven't found this to be too limiting as I am pretty content with my modest social life. But I never want my readers to think that this blog is a completely seamless and effortless part of my daily activities.
As I continue to develop my skills as a blogger, I definitely want to paint a realistic picture. After all, I think realism is something the fashion industry could use more of.
10 comments:
love your honesty in "getting real" :) and your outfit is precious, of course!
You see, this is why I absolutely love your blog! I love the way you write. It has always sounded more genuine that lots of others out there.
I, sometimes, write posts about my disappointment or unsurity but tend not to divulge too many details. I don't know who's reading what I write so I make sure I retain that certain amount of ambiguity.
P.S. Let's be realistic, you look AMAZING!
x Aliya
www.hillsidestory.net
This outfit is so gorgeous, and perfect for spring. I want everything you're wearing! I also really like the thoughts about realness. So true, and something it can be easy to forget. Oh, and is that light leak real?! So pretty.
Love these staged pictures. The red lips add so much to it :)
Rory
www.WearAboutsBlog.com
Club Couture Giveaway!
a realistic picture of a blogger esp. those who post outfits on their blogs. there are times where I was overdressed for running errands bcos of my blog. hahaha. lovely romantic outfit :)
xoxo
mochaccinoland.blogspot.com
You really summed up a lot of my current thoughts regarding blogging. I've found myself becoming disappointed when there isn't an opportunity to take pictures, or if the lighting's bad, or if I forget my camera. A lot of energy goes into making our lives seem picture-perfect. Sometimes I enjoy this, because it means I take effort to capture the beautiful aspects of my life not only for others, but for myself too--before I started blogging, I felt like my life was one blob of monotony because I was teaching, and I didn't want to feel boring or uninspired. Blogging has, in a lot of ways, pushed me to do more fun things and find the beauty in the mundane. I do recognize, though, that it also can be draining and difficult to maintain. It's hard to find the balance. Some days I get frustrated, and I have to take a step back and think about why I blog. If I have a clear purpose in mind, it makes me feel better. If not, it's easy to get wrapped up in things that are not what you really want (or need) to be doing.
Have I been to your blog before!??! I've seen your comments a few times (argh!) but I've never stopped by. YOUR BLOG IS AWESOME.
I love everything you just wrote. I went through a 4 month period where I didn't do 'outfit photos' at all. None. Zip. And i think it was all because of the reasons you just talked about. I was so focused for so long when I started blogging on making my life 'look pretty'. Perfecting EVERY single picture, every single outfit, every single 'adventure' photo or 'date' photo... I was so caught up in documenting my life it was detrimental. I wasn't as happy and I definitely wasn't relaxed. Niklaas and my fun dates turned into long 45 minute photo sessions for my blog. It was sad.
However, when he finally expressed his unhappiness and I realized how I'd let my blog affect my relationships, I took a step back. It helped SO much! I got sooo far sucked in that I couldn't see how unhealthy it was. Now, I'm back to blogging and outfit blogging and it's so much better. I don't feel caught up in taking "blog worthy" outfits and our photo sessions are quick and to the point and seamlessly fit into our dates. Our dates aren't focused on my blog or taking pictures. It's so much more normal and healthy!
Send me an email sometime! I'd love to get to know you!!
Love,
Maggie
P.S. I have this dress!
I read. I have just fallen in love with you! I hope that does not take you aback for you will now definitely have my everyday attention.
I LOVE your cute flower wreath. It's so adorable XD
I couldn't agree more with your thoughts. Sometimes I feel that the pretty things I post make people think my life is easy or simple like that, and only full of pretty, delightful, cheery things.
From time to time I update my blog with more personal posts, where I talk about personal challenges, and really express what I'm feeling.
I like to share a balanced view of me, my life, and my arts and crafts. I'm human, and while I try to do my best, I sure as hell ain't perfect.
*hugs*
I adore your dress and those photos are just perfect!
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