Style Icon: Cara Delevingne

1/2/3: no link available.

Okay, I'm officially on the bandwagon. I'm obsessed with Cara Delevinge. I resisted for so long because she's everyone's girl to love but I finally gave in. She is SO. COOL. Here are some of my favorite images of her. I wouldn't say she's a style icon of mine because I'm not that much of a risk taker and hate beanies, but I would say she's more of a life icon. She's always so fun, happy, joyful, carefree, and easy going - things I'm always striving for.

Wishing for: Long Necklaces

Y'all, I was the post child child for the huge, brightly colored statement necklaces. Don't get me wrong, I love them and probably always will, but I see myself quietly moving out of that phase. Instead, every outfit I plan I envision a cool long necklace with it. Problem is... I only own 1. Yes, 1. So I' m in dire need of more! I really want a gorgeous raw gemstone one like the fabulous purple one above, but those come in with a little higher price tag. Instead I found great options like the turquoise tassel and purple/gold arrow one. What are your thoughts? Anything on your list?

Chain necklace
metroparkusa.com

Kendra Scott long necklace
kendrascott.com

Serefina vintage jewelry
shopbop.com

Mata Traders gold jewelry
modcloth.com

Chain necklace
$30 - oliverbonas.com

Forever 21 jewelry
forever21.com

Life Right Now

Life has been crazy these days. Seriously cra-zy. I've barely had time to catch my breath or eat a meal (well, usually I can fit that in). Just when I thought I couldn't take it anymore I got these sweet pictures in the mail. God, you always know when to step in. Mostly abroad pictures with a few family photos, it was a wonderful surprise! (even though I ordered them for myself) Did you know that when you join Shutterfly you get 50 free prints?! That's where these babies came from when I ordered a photo book for my semester abroad. I was nervous about ordering all of this online but I wasn't disappointed. I highly recommend them! Have a joyful week!

Weekend Reading

Hey y'all! It's my favorite time of the week again: Friday + Weekend Reading! This has been my absolute favorite post to write since starting this blog. I love sharing articles, sites, people, homes, etc. I find interesting. When I started Gals + Grace, I knew I absolutely had to include a "Weekend Reading" post because it is continually my favorite post on all the blogs I read. I think its informative, fun, and I always find out about new bloggers and designers this way. Anyways, thought I would share why I include and love this post. If you're experiencing beautiful weather like I am-yay! If not, don't worry it will come soon! Be joyful and enjoy the weekend!

1. Again, loved this home tour on The Everygirl. This hand letterer and design enthusiast's home is super charming and personal.

2. I haven't hit the age yet where all my friends are getting married, but this article on Harper's Bazaar on bridesmaids is extremely insightful. Especially being from the South where weddings are done the "right way," I love a break from tradition.

3. Simple, easy ways to be more productive. Couldn't have found this at a better time!

4. Have you ever thought of putting a gallery wall in a bathroom?! Me either! But these examples have got me itching for my own place to try it!

5. A shameless plug for myself: I finally created a Calligraphy + hand lettering board on Pinterest to separate it from all the other art I continually pin. I've found tons of great inspiration and tips. Also, occasionally you'll find an illustration by me. Please follow!

**Follow me on Bloglovin! 

Adventure

I've been itching for adventure lately. It's probably because I've been working so much and cooped in the library. I've also been thinking a lot about my time in London last semester. Then I stumbled upon this quote above. How fitting is this?! If you've traveled before, gone away for college, or even summer camp for a while, you'll understand this. Really all it takes is one adventure or trip to know where home really is.

*Also, don't forget to check me out on Pinterest!

*image created by me on Studio app

I wish I could do this ALL time. I finally had free time this past Friday and was able to draw and work on my hand-lettering. I still have a long way to go, but I really, really enjoy doing this. Probably more than I love painting. Doing creative things and crafts has always been fun for me. Its my way of relaxation and de-stressing because my mind can wander and I can listen to music for hours. I was in a painting class freshman year of college and all my friends hated that I would go to the studio all the time. Sometimes it would be a pain but mostly it was therapeutic and felt like home. I wish I had more time do it and a studio space as well. One day!

Is there any activity or hobby you use as a de-stressing tool?