KATIE KENNEDY

Perfume || Heels || Earrings

Whether you want to grab some fun pieces for summer, splurge on a class you’ve been eyeing for a while, or stock up on simple basics, this is the sale for you. Today and tomorrow, ShopBop is having their Event of the Season and everything is up to 25% off. They have an amazing curation of pieces at every price point and have a little something for everyone.

Today, I’m sharing some of the pieces I’ve purchased in past sales and what I wish I could buy this time around. Sadly, I still have just over a week of my shopping freeze for Lent. Since I’m shopping vicariously through you, be sure to share your purchases in the comments below!

Love from NYC,
Katie

Dress || Heels || Clutch

No, that’s not a typo. I’m just so in love with Lilly Pulitzer’s new print, called Party Thyme. With Easter just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to stock up on florals and pastels to get ready for Spring. This particular print checks all of the boxes. The pattern is big and bold, like you would expect from any Lilly floral, but the muted colors softens the blow and give, almost, a 60s inspired feel. My favorite detail is the floral lace necklace, which adds a youthful touch.

I’m also extremely partial to this dress because of how flattering it is. It’s actually an updated version of the dress my bridesmaids wore at my wedding, that I originally posted about here. I loved it then and I love it even more with a pop of color. Any kind of dress that is flowy in all of the right places will always be okay with me.

Even for post Easter celebrations, this dress can still work for you. It is deceivingly casual, but it all comes down to how you accessorize. I styled this shift for church by adding my beloved silver Loeffler Randall heels, another piece from my wedding, and arc clutch from Cult Gaia. Even though this bag is two years old, it is still a staple during the Spring and Summer.

If you’re are thinking to style this dress for a more casual affair, there is nothing a pair of Jack Rogers sandals and a Madewell denim jacket can’t fix. Both of these pieces join me on every trip I take because you never know when they will come in handy. The color of the sandal is completely up to you, but why not start with a neutral gold or silver and see what you’re feeling.

Easter is all about bringing those bright colors that you’ve had tucked away for Winter back to center stage. If this particular pattern is your first pick, the dress also comes in a beautiful pink and white print. Be sure to shop all of my favorite Lilly Pulitzer pieces to find your choice for the upcoming holiday. Which is your favorite?

Love from NYC,
Katie

Dress || Heels || Necklace || Watch || Similar Bag

It was just about a year ago that I packed a weekender, boarded a plane, and headed to New York City for the very first time. I wasn’t there to play tourist and I may have been all alone, but I had a mission. I needed to find myself a job! If being in the big city wasn’t enough, I had to interview for the first time since college. After we found out that we were moving to NYC, my life became a flurry of job applications and phone interviews at different Manhattan schools. The ones that panned out required me to fly up for a mock lesson and to meet in person. I had two 24 hour trips from St. Pete and honestly felt like a pro at the traveling interview, especially when it came to packing!

When you’re out of your element and have only one shot to make a good first impression, it can feel a lot more stressful to pick out that perfect outfit. On my particular interviews, I had to also factor in comfort for early morning flights and wandering through the city. The best solution I found was a classic navy blazer and pant combo, white blouse, and sensible nude heels. I secretly consider it my lucky outfit because I have a 100% success rate when it comes to landing a job offer. You can also choose a modest dress instead. I love this grey number with cap-sleeve detailing from H&M. As soon as I slipped it on, I felt ready for the office and even the boardroom.

In my personal opinion, I think it’s important to keep accessories simple when on the job hunt. Now is not the time to show off any designer pieces or labels that you may have because it could so easily send the wrong message. Instead, having a classic watch and tasteful jewelery can bring together an outfit. This watch from Tory Burch was a gift for Christmas but it is also such a great addition to my daily outfit. It is understated, but somehow still makes a statement.

Finally, you need to have a great bag. Sadly, since I was so focused on making my way through a new city, I only brought my grey Herschel backpack with me. It was extremely practical, but I wish I could have shown up with something a little bit more chic, even if just for myself.
This satchel from Senreve would have been such an amazing option! Even if I had just brought along a portfolio, like this pick from Barrington Gifts, I would have felt more in sync with my outfit.

The most important thing to remember when going into a job interview is to have confidence! If I can go into a city that I’ve never been to before and land multiple teaching opportunities in the uber-competitive, fast paced Manhattan, you can have a great interview too. Know your worth and hold your head up high.

Love from NYC,
Katie