Lifestyle

Fashion is one of the most powerful forms of self-expression. The way we dress tells a story about where we’ve been, who we are, and who we are becoming. But here’s the truth: that story doesn’t stay the same forever. 

Sexy is not about youth, smooth skin, or tight dresses. Sexy is about confidence, wholeness, and living fully in the skin you’re in – no matter your age.  We’ve all done it: flipped through old pictures, stared at the glow of your skin, the carefree energy that seemed to radiate from us back then. For a moment, we think: “Was that the last time I was sexy?” 

By Ariel Travis You’ve made it through three quarters of the year and a trip might be just what you need to break out of routine, and shift out of autopilot. Take the time to reflect on all your accomplishments and the lessons learned so far. Invest in your well-being...

Is it me, or do the holidays seem to creep up quicker every year? By mid July I walked into a craft store and was greeted not by beach gear or patio décor, but aisles already stocked with Halloween and Thanksgiving trimmings. The strangest part? A tinge of anxiety ran through my body, as if I needed to brace for the inevitable holiday stress that adulthood often brings.

As entrepreneurs, we’re wired to pour our energy into serving clients, building systems, and creating value. But all too often, we overlook the most important system of all—ourselves. We forget to fill our own cup while we’re busy filling everyone else’s.

On the last day of my vacation, I sat conflicted alone on a quiet beach in the Dominican Republic. I checked my return flight to Atlanta and saw a prediction of freezing temperatures, with snow in the forecast the entire week I was due back. It then hit me—that age-old question: What the heck am I doing with my life? 

Somewhere between oversized tees, sweats, and cozy slippers, I lost touch with something I used to love deeply: getting dressed with purpose. Not just to look good, but to feel aligned. To feel like me. And then, one day, I got a text from a former client. She was glowing and thriving again after one of our style shoots. That message hit me in the chest.

When it comes to style, I learned that just because you don’t have the budget to buy trending pieces, you still have the ability to “make it work” with what you have or can afford. Here are five tips I learned to avoid compromising style on a budget:

Aging is a natural part of life that we all experience, yet it often comes with societal pressures and unrealistic standards of beauty. However, there’s an undeniable beauty in embracing the journey of aging gracefully. It’s not just about maintaining a youthful appearance; it’s about respecting our skin and understanding its changing needs. As women over 40, we face unique challenges.

When I used to think of the word “sanctuary,” I imagined lavish spaces with designer furniture, plush throws, and endless Pinterest-worthy corners. The kind of homes you see in glossy magazines or on perfectly curated Instagram feeds. But as I found myself yearning for a calm, restorative space of my own, I realized that a sanctuary doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.

Have you ever been “hangry”? That all-too-familiar mix of hunger and frustration that makes you feel like a completely different person? It’s what happens when your body craves nourishment and your emotions spiral as a result. It reminds me of the classic Snickers commercials that say, “You’re not you when you’re hungry.” If I’m honest, I’ve felt this way more times than I’d like to admit.

“Hey, [insert your name here], can you have this on my desk by noon?” “Honey, is it possible to grab this while you’re out?” “Mommy, my project is due tomorrow; can you help?” The constant demands of daily life – from the moment you wake up to the moment you (hopefully) drift off to sleep – can feel like an endless cycle.

“Who made the potato salad?” It’s a common question at family gatherings or dinner parties. If you’re a first-timer attempting this “delicacy,” all eyes might turn your way, wondering if your dish will make or break the meal. But if you’re already crowned the heavyweight champion of the family’s best potato salad, a collective sigh of relief, laughter, and perhaps a happy dance usually follows.