That's right, the mane is gone! This past week, I made the decision to finally cut off my long locks. If you have ever seen me in my every day life, or have been following me on tumblr for a while, then you know that my hair was out of this world. It had recently grown long enough to be tucked into my pants, but was surprisingly still healthy despite its length and my carelessness.

This picture was taken a few months back, and though my hair is curled, you can get an idea of how long it was before I donated it.

While a hair cut is really no big deal, it was a big decision for me to make. I have had long hair for as long as I can remember. It had become part of my identity actually, which makes me kind of sad that it had gotten to that point. My hair used to warrant compliments from strangers, family members, and its length was something I felt a strange sense of pride in.

Though I had cherished my hair for so many years, I actually began growing it out long enough for me to one day donate it. These past few years, from junior high on to high school, I've had an increasing number of friends-and even people I wasn't extremely close to- have to battle with either losing a loved one to cancer, or have had to go through the process as a family. As that number grew more and more, I began thinking how devastated I would feel if I had to wake up every day with a little less hair on my head. It sounds shallow, but we take our hair for granted. For many, myself included, it can provide a sense of comfort.

But what happens when it's not there anymore? Then what? I figured that I already had so many blessings in my life that sacrificing my locks wouldn't be a loss at all. Though it took me a long time and a lot of talk, I finally did it. I lost over 10 inches of my hair after the whole process, and that's something that I'll have to come to terms with, but it feels so good knowing that someone in the world may be able to fight the battle with a little more confidence because they've got my hair. I know its going to go to great use, and after treating me well for so many years, it's time that someone else gets to take it for a spin.

These pictures were taken by my lovely mother, who went with my to document the moment. I definitely lost a lot of hair during the process. 

It feels so weird to think that hair can be something of a gift like that. I can't say that I regret the decision at all. I was beautiful with my long hair, sure, but even though some of its missing now, I feel just as pretty, and I hope that someone out there can feel pretty with it too.

This is me now, with my hair, minus the 10+ inches gone. It's still a pretty decent length, and I'm so pleased with the way it's turned out. You have no idea how long it's been since I've been able to fit the entire length of my hair in a selfie! 

If you have ever considered donating you hair, it is something I would definitely encourage. Even if it's never been a thought to ever cross your mind, the idea should really be entertained. I know it isn't something for everyone, but you definitely take on a feeling of gratification when you realize how such a small act has the potential to bring somebody else so much joy. If this is something you would like to do, you should definitely check out Wigs for Kids, Locks of Love, or similar organizations to see how you can make a difference in your community.

Music For the Moment: Lorde.

Someone who has been on my radar for quite some time now within the music scene is seventeen year old sensation, Lorde. Hailing from New Zealand, the young singer-songwriter's music can be heard on almost any station out there. Hop in your car and within minutes of listening to the radio, you're likely to hear her hit song Royals, or her now rising tune, Team.

Her exceptional voice and bold sense of style casts and almost mysterious light upon the young starlet. Tabloids have taken this opportunity, calling her a snob. Some even go as far as to say her song Royals casts a racist stereotype on today's modern music, scolding her for denouncing the rap/hip-hop's praise for expensive cars, outlandish fashion statements, and nights spent too long in the club. Despite the rumors, her talent is an undoubtable sigh of relief on today's air waves.

Her album, Pure Heroine, debuted September 17, 2013, and has been on constant replay in my room ever since. Her music is perfect for most occasions, ranging from driving in the car to cramming for my French tests the next day. Lorde's fresh, modern sound is what I believe sets her apart from other artists her age. While her music may appear to be somewhat dark at first listen, it sneaks up on you and hits you like a tidal wave, pulling you into her lyrics and her unique sound.

If you have been hesitant to give Lorde's other music a try, I would suggest you finally take the plunge. Ignoring the amount of times you may hear her recent hits on the radio, she truly has other gems on her album and her previous EP. I give her tracks 400 Lux, Tennis Courts, and Bravado top notch ratings, though all of her songs appeal to me.

If any of you out there have given Lorde's music a spin, leave a comment down below sharing your thoughts! I look forward to hearing your views on her sound. As always, feel free to leave suggestions for future posts as well. Thanks for reading!

Another Day, Another Coffee Shop

Well it is finally here... Exam week begins on Thursday for me, and in preparation of that, I have been coffee shop hopping, if you will. In the past weekend I have been in three different cafes for hours on end, leaving my slightly jittery and smelling of the house brew.

Here's the interesting thing about coffee shops: the people. All walks of life can be found, brought together by a good cup of Java. If you're anything like me, you people watch at coffee shops. Every type of person imaginable is there. You can find your trendy hipsters with their iced coffees, the CEO powering through their work load and running solely on black coffee, the typical teenage girl, frappuccino in hand, and then... You've got me... 

Headphones plugged in, wearing a signature scarf, and well, taking a selfie because I'm too wired from the copious amounts of coffee I've consumed in less than an hour. 

You can also find the most interestin people in coffee shops. Or even the worst, like the man who took my $5 dollar bill today without a second thought. But with a little bit of kindness, you may open yourself up to those in the joint, perhaps share a table and discover a new view on the world you've been so a costumes to. I'll leave you with a piece of advice about coffe shops though: make friends with the baristas, especially if they're in training. They may just up your order for free. Acts of kindness go a long ways! 

If any of you out there were like me and hitting up your local shop to study for exams, I wish you the best of luck! Don't be afraid to post in the comments below some topics you'd be interested to hear me discuss either! I love hearing ideas of those who frequent my blog! 

Dress for Success.

In my book, style goes a long way. Though I appreciate a classic wardrobe, comfort is always key, and that statement rings truer than true during exam week. With them being in full swing, I wanted to look both cute, but also remain a sensible amount of movement and functionality, because when I look great, I feel confident. And we all know confidence in ourselves helps us keep our head a little taller, our backs a little straighter, and our smile a little brighter. If your in need of some serious fashion inspiration, hopefully my outfits of the week can give you some assistance.

For Monday I was keeping it simple and casual. With my red long sleeve tee and dark skinny jeans from American Eagle, I kept the look classic. Though most might shudder at the thought of actual jeans in this day and age, this pair in particular are the comfiest I've ever purchased, and they fit me like an absolute glove. My heather knit scarf is from H&M, and it has easily risen to the top of my favorites. While it's heavy and keeps me warm on those brisk mornings where I don't want to leave my bed, it's light enough for school and every day use. And I mean everyday. My riding boots are from Target, believe it or not, and have been the best show purchase I've ever made. Their surprising quality has so far stood the test of time, as they've been a treasured member of my closet for the past three years. 

I kept the layering to a minimum in Tuesday as well. I pieced together this outfit with sheet luck. My plaid shirt has beautiful floral accents on the sleeves, and the bright pops of blue we're really drawn out by my oversized bubble necklace. What I love about this piece is it's wow factor; it's completely unexpected and makes a bold statement. Heads turn whenever it's draped across my neck. I paired this flannel with my favorite pair of leggings- they're actually athletic pants from Old Navy, they're super thick, comfy, and offer plenty of warmth. My tall moto boots were a Christmas gift from my family, and I love how their edgy vibe offsets the classic prep look, if you will. 

By Wednesday, I usually begin to lose my drive to look cute. Being jump day, my energy level starts to decline, and comfort becomes the main focal point. It kept it extremely simple. My Aztec print yoga pants and from Pink. Though you don't see the band, the funky bright colors make me feel cute, and there's nothing wrong with that, right? My oversized frocket is from the Fratenrity Collection (formally known as the Frat Collection), and is my absolute favorite sweatshirt. It's quality is impeccable, and the pocket design is to die for. Not to mention, this product is made in the US, so you know the high grade cotton is worth the somewhat flashy price tag. 

My final outfit for you all was easily one of my favorites. Being that this days tests were being held in some of my coldest classroom, I went straight to warmth when choosing this outfit. My fleece lined leggings or the day are out of this world. They provide so much warmth, and it's like wearing a blanket, except they're pants. I absolutely love them. Now, onto the good stuff. This item is probably my favorite piece in my closet. My spirit jersey is from Spirit Football Jersey (easy enough, right?) and it is honestly the best thing I've spent a paycheck on. It's thickness is perfect for school use: it's heavier than a normal tee, but lighter than a sweatshirt. I'm never too hot not too cold. It's tie die design is also phenomenal, and the blend of colors is nothing less than impressive. I know for a fact that only a limited amount of this design was printed, but if you're seriously interested, I would check the website. I've found it so worth every penny! 

I hope posting these will give someone some outfit inspiration. I know how it can be when you're struggling with trying to pick out the perfect out- we've all been there before! Leave a comment down below if you would be interested in ore of these, or if you have any certain outfit requests for different functions. I love doing these, and I hope you enjoyed them too! Have a beautiful day, or night, depending on when you read this! Xx.