5 Gifts for Every Zodiac Sign

1. Gold Aquarius star sign necklace– Give the Aquarius in your life a way to show their water-bearer pride.
2. Bananagrams– The perfect Aquarius game: competitive, fast-paced, and clever.
3. Fuzzy socks– I guarantee your Aquarius friend isn't relaxing enough. Let their feet at least take a break in these adorable bear socks.
4. Aquarius notebook– Every Aquarius needs a place to let their feelings out. This journal is a healthy alternative to taking off for the woods for a couple months.
5. Bear travel pillow– Clearly, there's a connection between bears and Aquariuses: they're both really independent. A travel pillow is the perfect accessory for that solo trip to Asia or the spontaneous cross-coast train ride.

1. Rose petal oil– This beautifully scented oil is perfect for a Pisces to moisturize their split-ends, cuticles, and whatever else they deem fit.
2. Pisces shea butter soap– Make hand washing a cathartic experience for your Pisces friends by giving them this personalized soap.
3. Watercolor pencil set– Satisfy a Pisces' creative urges and their craving to immerse themselves in all things water by combining the medium of watercolor and colored pencils.
4. Pisces necklace– A simple way for a Pisces to show off their Pisces pride.
5. Oversized scarf– Any Pisces would love to wrap, warm, and possibly hide themselves in this comfortable (and chic!) accessory.

1. Aries nail polish– This color was designed specifically for your Aries friend (literally!).
2. Inspirational desk sorter– The typical Aries is hard-working and organized. Appeal to both qualities with this super cute office accessory.
3. "You can never be overdressed or overeducated" journal– Both education and fashion require some risk: something an Aries truly values.
4. Fire scented candle– Aries is a fire sign and lover of fine things. This present hits both those requirements.
5. Aries keychain– A cool, casual way to show for your friend to show off their not-so-casual zodiac sign.

1. Taurus shirt– A simple way to show off their zodiac sign.
2. Card holder– A Taurus doesn't like to lose track of their wealth. This sleek, unadorned, quality card holder keeps their cards in reach at all times.
3. Black furry keychain– Appeal to a Taurus' sense of feel with this sophisticated statement piece that demonstrates commitment to fashion without calling too much attention.
4. Taurus mug– If someone in your life doesn't have a mug broadcasting their zodiac sign by this point in 2016, it's about time they own one.
5. "Enchanted Forest" coloring book– Tauruses are creative and love nature. This book requires both these traits.

1. Hair chalk– What Gemini doesn't love expressing themselves in a different way every day? This assortment of different colored hair chalk washes off within a couple days and gives plenty of different options to mix and match for a number of unique hair colors.
2. Gemini leather patch– A cheeky and adorable way to show Gemini pride.
3. Gemini necklace– Do I need to spell it out for you?
4. "Here comes the fun" passport holder– Geminis want to experience everything the world has to offer, and this includes traveling the world.
5. Muse porcelain cup– I was going to make a joke about Geminis being two-faced (thanks, Tumblr), but this is really just a beautiful and incredibly unique addition to a kitchen and can also be used as decor.

1. Star-shaped lights– If you can't afford a telescope, this is a cheap (and adorable) alternative.
2. Cancer necklace– A simple and subtle accessory to show crab pride.
3. "Happiness planner"– Cancers are some of the most pensive members of the zodiac. This planner focuses on channeling that thoughtfulness to find out what contributes to one's good days, weeks, and months.
4. "I think you are wonderful" set– Remind your Cancer friend that they are, in fact, wonderful, even though they may not always think they are.
5. Cancer watercolor print– The colors and design in this print are perfect for any Cancer's aesthetic.

1. Gold polka-dot cocktail shaker– Leos know just what the perfect party entails, and this cocktail shaker is sure to aid in creating that.
2. Lion choker– Extravagant? Check. Statement? Check. Gold? Check. This choker fulfills all the requirements of the perfect Leo accessory.
3. "The master plan" notebook– What used to be the secret of every Leo is now a well-known fact: they want to rule the world. Help them on their way to that goal with this notebook to document every aspect of their master plan.
4. Gold metallic lip– Leos are all about standing out; and what better way for them to do this than with gold lips?
5. Leo keychain– Another statement piece for the Leo in your life.

1. Simple stud set– Virgos can have their moments of standing out from the crowd, but for the most part, they prefer timeless elegance to trends. These studs are the perfect addition to any classic outfit.
2. Virgo candle– A scent and design picked especially for Virgos.
3. Black and white striped 2017 17 month planner– Chances are, your Virgo friend bought their planner for the new year months ago. If they haven't, this classy design is the perfect choice.
4. Virgo notecard set– Virgos are suckers for stationary of all kinds, but especially stationary with a simple, elegant design.
5. Black tote– Another wardrobe staple for the zodiac sign that prefers quality to quantity.

1. "52 lists for happiness"– Another happiness journal (what? Everyone deserves to be happy!), but this one targets a Libra's indecisiveness.
2. Libra necklace– This rustic accessory is perfect for the romantic Libra.
3. "Love" print– Libras are the romantics of the zodiac. This print demonstrates just how much they value love by repeating it across the page.
4. Libra earrings– The best way for a Libra to show off their zodiac sign is by balancing their sign on each side of their face.
5. Cat sleep mask– A cute and flirty piece to help the Libra in your life get some more sleep.

1. Scorpion square scarf– My favorite part of this pick is that it wasn't designed specifically for a Scorpio, but it's edgy and features a scorpion, making it a great gift for any Scorpio.
2. Nude figurine tray– A simple piece of decor to normalize the human body, something Scorpios feel passionately about.
3. Black over the knee boots– Sure, these may just be a piece from my personal wish list, but I'm a Scorpio!
4. Black lace bodysuit– A sexy layering piece to go under any outfit or to wear over a bralette to make a statement.
5. Scorpio patch– Another (more obvious) way to show Scorpio pride.

1. Agate bookends– A beautiful and unique piece of decor to help your Sagittarius friend show off their prized book collection.
2. Salsa growing kit– A spicy, hands-on gift for a spicy, hands-on friend.
3. Sagittarius constellation light– The perfect conversation starter to hang on the wall of someone who loves conversation.
4. Scratch travel journal– An easy and visual way for a Sagittarius to document how much of the world they've traveled.
5. Arrow bracelet– This may not have been designed with a Sagittarius in mind, but it's the perfect minimalist accessory to compliment a fun statement outfit.

1. Savings jar– Give your Capricorn friend a more creative way to do something they do without thinking about: save money.
2. Tech touch gloves– Capricorns love practical gifts. These gloves combine practicality (staying warm and still being able to use your phone) with style.
3. Goat wine stopper– An adorable representation of the Capricorn symbol that doubles as encouragement to leave more half-empty bottles of wine lying around.
4. Capricorn ring– Beautiful, simple, and easy-to-wear.
5. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie– A quick (but essential) read from one of the most influential and acclaimed feminist WOC still alive.

Seattle Bucket List

In June, I realized that I don't have long left in the city I've called home for the last three years. If I'm going to do everything I want to in Seattle, I have to get on it, because I don't have much time left. So, I asked all my Seattle friends places that they recommend I go before I leave. The result is my Seattle Bucket List.

I've actually been to quite a few places on my bucket list since June. I'll continue to keep track of which boxes I've ticked off as I continue to explore.
Volunteer Park Conservatory
Woodland Zoo
South-Lake Union
Golden Gardens park
Ballard farmer's market
Gasworks park & Kerry park
West Point Lighthouse

Coping With a Breakup + Playlist

It's been about 3 months since my (now ex) of nearly three years broke up with me. I spent a while feeling like I would never recover. When that was over, I spent some time feeling like I would never fall in love again. I went through a couple other hard phases, and I guess I'm still getting over it. This was my first love, and seeing that end was unlike anything I'd ever experienced. The weirdest thing to think about is that everybody experiences going through a tough breakup. It's a universal experience, yet it's one that feels so painfully pointed and unique that it feels like no one could ever possibly understand what you're going through. As sad as it is that everyone experiences heartbreak, it's led to some pretty good music to help the rest of us get through a similar experience. My breakup playlist was pretty much just Miley Cyrus's last two albums, but I've compiled a playlist of my favorite breakup songs according to which stage of grief comes after a breakup. Listen to it below and follow my advice on what to do in each stage.

Stage 1: Denial
- "Stay" by Rihanna ft Mikky Ekko
- "Someone Else" by Miley Cyrus
- "Tremble" by Nicole Millar
- "The Garden" by Mirah
- "Breezeblocks" by alt-J
- "Denial" by The Vaccines
- "Haunted (Acoustic)" by Taylor Swift

What to do when you're in denial:
- Make and get rid of an "ex box." Gather everything your ex gave you or that you got together or that reminds you too much of them and take it to a donation center. Keeping that stuff around will only make it harder to accept that they're gone, and it'll only serve to make you sadder during the depression stage.
- Start thinking about your future without your ex. Instead of dwelling on what you'll be missing, imagine new possibilities and opportunities presenting themselves.
- Whenever you catch yourself saying, "I can't believe...", remind yourself that it's true. Be open to accepting reality as it is: this will make the recovery process quicker and easier.
- Take at least 45 days off from talking to your ex. Hide them on social media, ask your friends not to talk to you about them, and delete their texts from your phone. That whole "but we can be friends!" thing can work, but only after time. It is essential that you take time off from the relationship before you even think about rebuilding it as a friendship.

Stage 2: Anger
- "My Song 5" by Haim
- "FU" by Miley Cyrus and French Montana
- "Back to Black" by Amy Winehouse
- "Hang Me Up To Dry" by Cold War Kids
- "Take It All Away" by Cake

What to do when you're angry:
- Gently avoid your ex. I know people say you're not supposed to go out of your way to avoid seeing an ex, but if seeing them is going to put you in a worse mood or trigger you to blow up at them, it's completely fine to avoid. Eventually you'll be able to see them in passing, even if it's a little awkward.
- Go out. Put on your hottest outfit, get ready with Nicki Minaj on, and meet your friends for dinner or dancing. Acting on your desire for revenge in a passive and harmless way, by looking your best and flirting with someone new, will bring you a sense of relief. Plus, going out is a great way to distract yourself from unwanted emotions.
- Practice calming exercises. Do deep breathing (I recommend breathing in for 5 seconds and breathing out or 7), drink some decaf tea, meditate, color, etc.

Stage 3: Bargaining/guilt
- "Wrecking Ball" by Miley Cyrus
- "Back In Your Head" by Tegan and Sara
- "Man" by the bird and the bee
- "Mercy" by Duffy

What to do when you're bargaining or feeling guilty:
- Examine the relationship rationally. Would your ex really have stayed if you'd cooked them dinner more or complained less? Or were there deeper, more complex issues that caused the breakup? Even if the breakup was caused by something shallow, do you really want to be with someone who won't take your bad with your good features? Remind yourself that no one is perfect, that no one can expect you to be perfect, and that your less-than-desirable traits do not define or destroy you.
- Forgive yourself. You may not have done your best, but you can do better next time. Forgive yourself for anything you keep telling yourself you did wrong: it's in the past, what's done is done, and what's important is that you move on instead of dwelling on what could have been.
- Own up to what's making you feel guilty in a safe space. Tell a friend what's been on your mind. Chances are, you'll receive the validation you need that you're not a bad person.

Stage 4: Sadness
- "Drive" by Miley Cyrus
- "Stay High (Habits Remix)" by Tove Lo
- "Never Ending" by Rihanna
- "I Get So Scared" by Miley Cyrus
- "Summertime Sadness" by Lana Del Rey
- "Landfill" by Daughter
- "I Gave You All" by Mumford & Sons

What to do when you're sad:
- Keep a list of all the positive or meaningful things that happen throughout the day. They can be as simple as noticing the beauty of a garden you walk by every day or as monumental as receiving a promotion at work. Remind yourself that, even in sadness, good things can and will continue to occur.
- Stimulate your 5 senses. Light a nice-smelling candle, eat some ice cream, snuggle up in a soft blanket, listen to your favorite music, or watch cute dog videos.
- Do something you love. Don't put pressure on yourself to immediately feel better in the process of completing the activity, but rather let this be an opportunity for you to dote on yourself.
- Give yourself space to be sad. Your emotions are valid and an important part of being human. Losing a relationship is never easy, and it makes complete sense to be sad in light of a breakup. Lean on the people in your life for support and give yourself permission to do what you need to get through this hard period of your life. Just make sure that by making way for sadness you're not fueling or encouraging it.
- Do the opposite of what you feel like doing. If you feel like curling up in bed, put on an upbeat song and dance around your room. If you haven't felt like eating all day, eat a PB&J. Resisting and even defying your sadness urges is incredibly difficult, but it really does help.

Stage 5: Acceptance
- "Going On" by Gnarls Barkley
- "Elastic Heart" by Sia
- "Nineteen" by Tegan and Sara
- "Kissing You Goodbye" by The Pierces
- "Love Myself" by Hailee Steinfeld

What to do when you've accepted the breakup:
- Just keep moving on. Keep your heart open to new loves and new losses. Find fulfillment in your life without your ex. Immerse yourself in your career. Start a new hobby. Travel. Don't look back.

My Summer 2016 Shopping List

Photos via: Prosecco & Plaid (1), Prosecco & Plaid (2), Hello Fashion, The Fox & She, Mind Body Swag, and The Fashion Cuisine.

Lace-Up Flats: I've been looking for a pair of these since the spring. I was big into flats when I was younger, but I grew bored of them in high school and college. Since then, I've been looking to up my flat game with something a little more interesting. Lace-up flats fulfill that desire as well as reminding me of the ballerina I once was.

Photos via: Pink Peonies, A Southern Drawl, Lifestyle by Joules, Suburban Faux Pas, and Merrick's Art.

Lemon Print: Ever since Beyonce released Lemonade, I've been seeing lemon print everywhere (including on this adorable grandma-toddler combo). It may be poignant or it may be a coincidence; either way, this is a surprisingly sweet trend I am more than happy to follow.

Photos via: Style Pantry, Late Afternoon, The Quarter Life Crisis, Mink & Ivory, Blair Badge, and Les Babioles de Zoé.

Palazzo Pants: I've long flirted with the wide-leg pant. Pants are one of my least favorite items of clothing to wear because they're so much less comfortable skirts or dresses. The flowy look of palazzo pants (along with the freedom that comes with non skinny-leg pants) is so appealing to me. Plus, they can be dressed up or down, which I love.

Photos via: Katie's Bliss, Margo & Me, Eleonora Petrella, Kelly Saks, and My Showroom. 

Short-Sleeve Romper: I have bought so many rompers in the last five years: rompers with long sleeves, no sleeves, v-necks, high necks, pant legs, shorts, etc. The one type of romper I don't own is one with short-sleeves. I'm just looking to add on to my collection here.

Photos via: Stella Wants to Die, Sunshine & Stilettos, Collage Vintage, Alex's Closet, Fashion Jackson, and Silvia's Closet.

Tan Button-Up Faux Suede Skirt: This is by far the most specific item on my summer shopping list. I have a navy button-up faux suede skirt that I got a couple months ago with the intention of satisfying my desire for this style skirt, but I still find myself wanting one in tan. The color is perfect for the summer and the fall and the style is super cute!

Photos via: Fashionably Geek, Sazan, The Cherry Blossom Girl, Mermaid Waves, and Style Sprinter.

Purses Shaped Like Objects: Dani from Mermaid Waves introduced me to this adorable trend. She has purses shaped like pizza, the Instagram symbol, and an egg, seen above. I love adding something fun to an otherwise basic (if adorable) outfit, and this is the perfect statement piece.

Summer in Seattle

As my third year of college comes to a close, I've been getting excited to spend my second summer living in Seattle. Last year, I spent a lot of time with a partner-in-crime, but I'm excited to be able to take the city alone this summer. Last weekend, I went to Alki Beach for the first time since living in Seattle. There, I saw the best view of the city I've ever seen. Having this new experience and seeing my city from a new perspective encouraged me to think about what I want to do this summer in Seattle. 

1. Take a road trip: I've taken many road trips over the years, but I haven't had the chance to do so with a group of friends. With so many wonderful places within driving distance (Portland, Vancouver BC, the Oregon Coast, etc.), I can't wait to see where I end up.
2. Get a tattoo: When I was 18, I had a plan to get a tattoo to celebrate going a year without self-harming. My parents eventually ended up telling me that I couldn't get a tattoo while I was still living under their roof, so I postponed the plan. It's been a couple years and I no longer live with my parents, so I think it's time to acknowledge the strides I've made in dealing with my chronic depression.
3. Explore the city: I can't believe it took me three years to finally get on a ferry and explore the islands outside of Seattle. I don't want to look back at my time in Seattle and feel like I didn't see enough of the city I lived in. There are lots of beautiful places within the realm of public transportation, which leaves me with no excuse to stay on my side of town.
4. Make time to do arts and crafts: I love to paint, embroider, and follow DIY tutorials. I don't have a lot of time to be creative for long periods of time during the school year, so I want to take advantage of the time I have available this summer,
5. Read for fun: I'm taking two online classes this summer, but I'll still have more time and energy to read outside of my assigned reading. 
6. Write something: During the school year, I write so much academic material that I'm not left with a lot of energy to write anything longer than a blog post. Creative writing has always been a big part of my life, and I want to be able to allow myself time to do it.
7. Find some post-grad options: I'm graduating in six months! I have a lot of ideas about what I want to do when I graduate (teaching in South America, writing in New York, etc.) but eventually I'll have to put something into action. 

9 Essential Makeup Products

1. e.l.f. Brightening Eye Liner in "coffee": At only a dollar apiece, this is the perfect everyday eyeliner. I wear it under almost every makeup look. It looks great smudged or applied in a clean line, and lasts forever!
2. e.l.f. Eyebrow Kit in "medium": Another inexpensive product that I completely rely on. It comes in three colors (unfortunately, blond and red are not among them) and is super easy to use. I've only gone through two in the last three years even though I use it every day!
3. Benefit Benetint Cheek & Lip Stain: I've been using this since I was 11 years old and I snuck into my mom's makeup drawer to see what all the fuss was about. It's the perfect red lip tint and even comes with a matching lip balm that makes the color last all day. A little bottle goes a long way because it's so pigmented!
4. Benefit High Beam Complexion Enhancer: I use this on my cheekbones as highlighter. Again, a little bit goes a long way, and a little more creates the perfect translucent sheen. 
5. New York Color City Proof 24 Hr Eye Shadow in Brooklyn Mocha: I've written about this product in the past, and I've only fallen more in love with it. I use it on my eyes almost every day and on my cheeks to better define my cheekbones.
6. New York Color City Proof 24 Hr Eye Shadow in Murray Hill Champagne: This product is $2-$4, so getting more than one was a no brainer. I use this lighter color in the inner corner of my eyes to make my eyes look bigger.
7. Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Eyeliner in Black: I spent a lot of years using a thicker liquid eyeliner pen, so I was surprised when I loved this thin one so much. It's super easy to use and stays on really well.
8. Benefit Roller Lash Mascara: I've spent a long time trying to find the perfect mascara. This is my favorite so far! Even though it's a little spendy, it's totally worth it. It stays on all day and comes off easily with makeup remover, and is lightweight enough that it makes a very noticeable difference but doesn't clump or smear. Plus, the wand curls your lashes as you apply, eliminating the need for an eyelash curler.
9. NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in literally any color available: I own this product in six different colors and I use all of them regularly. It's so soft and goes on so easily, but you don't even feel it once it's been applied. Some colors require reapplication throughout the day, but it's a lot longer lasting than most lipsticks I've worn.

Background photo by Ian Oliver Walsh

A Broke & Fabulous Holiday Season: My Holiday Wishlist

We're halfway through Hanukkah, which means it's probably time to put out my holiday wish list. Grandparents, parents, and admirers, please read on and take note!

Who doesn't love a cute lil something to wear on your head? It's my third winter in Seattle and I only own one beanie, so it's about time I got something to warm my ears.

1. White earmuffs from Charming Charlie
2. Black pom pom beanie from Saks Fifth Avenue
3. Pom pom ear beanie from ASOS
4. Beige pom pom beanie from Forever 21
5. White hat with ears from H&M

I hesitated about putting this on my wish list because there are so many bad ways to do fringe. Check out what I have on my Shopstyle list for some serious fringe-spiration.

1. Black mini skirt from H&M
2. Black and gold necklace from Nasty Gal
3. Grey knee-length skirt from Lulu*s
4. Peach saddle bag from Apt. 9
5. Black tank top from H&M

Ah, socks: the classic holiday gift. I ask for socks every year and, no matter how many pairs I get, I always need more. I blame the community washing machines I use at school and my little sister at home.

1. Neutral pair of socks from Xhilaration
2. Lavender over-the-knee socks from Stance
3. Black and white varsity socks from boohoo
4. Gray socks from Hue Therma
5. Brown socks from Swell

Thigh-high boots are all the rage right now and, as much as I hesitate to jump onboard the trend train, I'm totally into this one.

1. Platform boots from H&M
2. Gray boots from Forever 21
3. Flat boots from Penny Loves Kenny
4. Suede tassel boots from boohoo
5. Zip-up boots from Romwe

Since I've gotten more into makeup, I've had so much fun doing my eyes in particular. I've experimented with doing color on my lips, and I think it's time to do color on my eyes.

1. Copper eyeliner from Sephora
2. Pink eyeliner from Sephora+Pantone
3. Silver eyeliner from Ciaté London
4. Turquoise eyeliner from Sephora
5. Green eyeliner from Stila
6. Gold eyeliner from Ciaté London

My hands are one of my favorite features, and I love showing them off with cute little rings.

1. Geometric rings from Madewell
2. Silver rings from French Connection
3. Hammered gold rings from Topshop
4. Shaped gold rings from Sole Society
5. Wavy rings from Charming Charlie

New Year, New Wardrobe

It's a new year and, of course, I've been shopping recently to update my wardrobe. Check out what I've been buying/looking for below!

I know this color seems bland, but it simply screams "chic" on the right piece. Camel coats in particular are way up on my shopping list this season.

The reasoning behind this purchase is a little strange, but here it is: I love the way it flows out behind me when I walk. I feel like a princess in modern attire!

I mean... Can you think of a time when I wasn't obsessed with faux fur? Forever 21's current sale re-reminded me of my thirst for more faux fur in my closet, and it's too cold out to justify NOT buying something that will help keep me warm.

I've been so conflicted the last year or two about heels on my shoes. On the one hand, this simple piece makes an entire outfit look chic and fabulous with no real effort. On the other hand, my poor ex-ballerina feet can despise me when I wear heels for too long. Right now I'm stuck on loving heels, and heeled booties in particular!

Holiday Gifts for the Cliché Friend

1. Cat tights

2. Cat print pouch set

3. Cat ear headband

4. Cat print luggage tag

5. Cat iPhone holder

1. "Art of Nature" coloring book

2. Great Women of Science t-shirt

3. Anatomically correct plush heart

4. Chemistry of tea and coffee mug

5. Beaker tea infuser

1. "Hungoevr Cookbook"

2. Beard pint glasses

3. OMG flask

4. Party On bottle opener

5. Straight Up and Liquid Courage shot glasses

1. Boss Bitch notebook

2. Mega Babe keychain

3. Miss Boss sweatshirt

4. I Woke Up Like This sweater

5. #GirlBoss by Sophia Amoruso

1. Portable phone charger

2. Heart sleeping mask

3. Map art book

4. Airplane earrings

5. Elephant pattern cosmetic bag