Winter Formal '16

I thought it was impossible to top the festivities and celebrations of last year, but I was proven wrong at this year's winter formal. Before the dance, my friends and I gathered together to have dinner and take pictures. Snapping photos and laughing at cheesy jokes made for the perfect way to begin the evening. I styled a gorgeous dress from Free People with suede heels from Steve Madden and an oversized scarf from Urban Outfitters. I had a lovely time dancing the night away with so many wonderful people, and I can't wait until next year.

XOXO,

Sadie

Christmas Tree Hunting

Now that December is here, it's finally appropriate to jam out to Christmas music, don holiday sweaters, and search for a lovely tree. It has become a family tradition in the Allen household to venture into the North Carolina mountains and find the perfect fir for our home. Today's winter excursion led to us to an adorable Christmas tree farm in Pineola, NC called Twin Pines Nursery. Wandering among the tall evergreens made for a cheery way to welcome the holiday season (even though I've been enjoying Caramel Brûlée Lattes for the past month). I had so much fun picking out wreaths, sipping hot cocoa, and singing carols with my family. It made for the perfect Saturday adventure, and I can't wait to see what this Christmas season holds.

I hope everyone had a lovely Saturday!

XOXO,

Sadie

A Day of Gratitude

I write to you on this lovely Thursday evening after enjoying a meal filled with pumpkin cheesecake and sweet potato casserole. On this Thanksgiving, I had the pleasure of spending my morning at a family brunch and then having dinner with my grandparents. Today was a much needed break from school to reflect on the year and all of the things I am blessed with. I am so thankful for all of my relatives and friends who are always there for me, my cat, and, of course, the wonderful people who read this blog and support my passions. I often take for granted everything I have in my life, like school or a house to call my own. Today presents the perfect opportunity to remember that no matter how bad life may seem on any given day, we are granted so much and that is always something worth celebrating. Have a happy Thanksgiving, and don't eat too much pie!

My dress is from Old Navy (similar), the cardigan is from J. Crew, and my hat is from Gap (similar).

Have a lovely Thanksgiving!

XOXO,

Sadie

Thursday Thoughts

Whether it be because of the changing seasons or because of my oncoming cold, November has been quite hectic. I find myself too distracted by the buzz of my busy life to take a moment to relax and reflect on life. This month is supposed to be one filled with giving and gratefulness, yet somehow I am overwhelmed by sports, school, and everything else in-between. Writing this post forces me to focus on the good in this hectic life that I live and show gratitude for everything I have. Today I'm sharing a small list of things that make me happy to spread the joy of the season. If you find yourself drifting into the stress of school and life, take a moment to thank someone who cares for you or write a friend a sweet note. After all, the best cure to any ailment (and hopefully my oncoming cold!) is kindness.

1. Sleeping in on Saturday & Sunday mornings.

2. When it's chilly outside but you are wrapped in blankets.

3. Hot cocoa and a good movie.

4. Falling leaves and their lovely colors.

5. A smile- and laughter-filled night out with friends.

6. Bubble baths.

7. Art museums in the summer.

8. Letters and polaroids.

9. Remembering good memories.

10. A warm cup of coffee or tea.

11. Fudge and cookies (or just sweets in general).

12. Warm, fuzzy sweaters.

13. Pretty Instagram feeds.

14. The lovely mountains.

15. A nice, cozy fireplace and its smell.

16. Hugs from family you haven't seen in a while.

17. Feeling cute and confident.

18. The stars on a clear night.

19. A clean room and scented candles.

20. Peppermint sticks.

I hope everyone has had a wonderful November and remember to thank those you love for everything they do for you!

XOXO,

Sadie

November Weather

November has arrived, the days are feeling chillier, and winter is on its way. With this changing of temperatures I must adopt a change of wardrobe as well. I'm in the process of changing out the thin layers of my autumn wardrobe for the thick, wooly sweaters that the North Carolina weather requires. During this transition, I have been loving my forest green corduroy pants (similar). They pair nicely with neutral colored tops and shoes, thus creating a perfect outfit for November weather. I picked up this loose peplum top from Urban Outfitters, and I snagged these gorgeous boots from TJ Maxx. They complete this late autumn look perfectly, and I can't wait for the lovely November days ahead.

Thanks for reading!

XOXO,

Sadie

This is Halloween

As I write to you halfway through a Kit Kat and Snickers induced candy coma, I reflect on how utterly perfect the evening has been. I can't decide what was the best part of trick or treating: dressing us as Suzy Bishop from Moonrise Kingdom, meandering through neighborhoods filled to the brim with bewitching decorations, or even just the bounty of sweets that filled my bag. Although I commonly hear that I'm too old to enjoy this holiday, I disagree. There is no age limit on having fun, especially on a night like this. Even if the holiday loses its spells of witches and ghosts, spending time with the people you care about is the only magic needed. I had such a wonderful and spooky time with my friends and can't wait until next year. Happy Halloween everyone, and don't eat too much candy!!

XOXO,

Sadie

Sadie Jane Travels: Maryland

Hello everyone! This past weekend, I had the pleasure of traveling the the beautiful state of Maryland. I stayed just outside of Baltimore, and my visit to Annapolis and Georgetown left quite an impression on me. Due to my interest in history and civics, I adore this part of our country. Annapolis still holds an air of history about it, even in today's modern age. Meandering through the cobblestone streets and breathing the crisp air was lovely. It seemed that every corner I turned lead me to a new piece of antiquity waiting to be dusted off and explored. This charming town lies on the coast of the Chesapeake Bay, which was settled by the well-known Englishman John Smith. While adventuring in this picturesque haven, he wrote "Heaven and Earth have never agreed better to frame a place for man's habitation". With its cool, crisp Autumn weather and lovely views, I could not agree more. 

Our visit to Georgetown was yet another wonderful experience. Shopping along its seemingly endless streets was the perfect way to spend a Saturday evening. Scattered amongst the big-name shops (Free People, Lush, and Urban Outfitters, to name a few of my favorites) were a few quaint independent stores like L'Enfant Galerie. This charming shop was filled to the brim with antiques and old paintings perfect for wandering through. I felt as if I was lost in beautiful art pieces, vintage china, and even old flags. It was such a lovely experience, and I can't wait to return again.

How've you spent October? Tell me on Instagram!

XOXO,

Sadie

A Cozy Abode

Although I adore passing away the time outside, there is nothing quite like a cozy night spent indoors curled up with a cat and good book. I love coming home to a lovely, clean room, especially when it expresses who I am as a person. Lately I've been really feeling the vibes of my bedroom and its autumn decor, so I thought I would share it with you all. Hopefully it will inspire you to add a few fall decorations to your abode and enjoy your time inside!

Above is an overview of my bedroom. I'm currently obsessed with the pretty fox pillow seated in my chair. It brings in a bit of warmth to my room and the colors are perfect for fall!

My bed is perhaps my favorite part of my room (partially because it's so comfy, partially because it's so cute) and I adore my eclectic collections that I displayed overhead. I found the pendant at a vintage store, the constellation wheel was a gift, and the art and polaroids I've taken or bought during my travels.

My art wall is perhaps the most prominent representation of my style in my room. I love the vintage paint-by-number piece that I picked up at a vintage store and it pairs perfectly with the various prints that I've collected over the years.

Although my desk is where I complete my dreaded homework, I still enjoy the books, bits, and bobbles that adorn it. My vintage lamp provides a little more light, and my pumpkin string lights add a cute fall touch.

No desk is complete without a candle and mason jars! These containers make great pencil and pen holders. Plus, they're adorable!

Mini pumpkins are another adorable autumn decoration. They bring a bit of color onto my bookshelf and last quite a while!

For when my iTunes library just isn't hitting the spot, I keep my beloved record player on my bookshelf. Some of my favorite vinyl jams are Carrie & Lowell by Sufjan Stephens and An Awesome Wave by alt-J.

Just like my art wall, I use this mood board to express myself. I change out the small art pieces and letters frequently, and sometimes even add in dried flowers or leaves.

Atop my dresser I keep my perfume, flowers, my favorite jewelry pieces, and, of course, a pumpkin. I also hung my embroidery hoop that I purchased at the Indie Craft Parade as another decoration.

My vanity area is has yet another (surprise, surprise) art wall. I keep a calendar at easy access so that I can see what I have for planned the day and week ahead, and I display some of my own artwork, too!

I hope you enjoyed my room tour and I hope it inspired you! What do you love about your room? Tell me on Instagram!

XOXO,
Sadie