Same Time Last Year

Outfit 1

Outfit 2

Outfit 3

Outfit 4

Outfit 5

Around the first week of June last year, I posted these outfits on my blog. I can still tell you what was going on when I took the pictures, where they were taken and who I was doing after the photoshoots. It's funny how many memories are connected to the clothes we wear. For example, my wedding dress holds a lot of memories and is very important to me as it was a gift from my future husband. He wanted me to have the dress of my dreams (not sparing any expense), therefore I will keep it for the rest of my life. On the other hand, this eShakti striped dress wasn't such a great fit and I had to pass it on to my cousin. 

I'm also thinking about the things I wanted to accomplish in a year, and how far I have come. Although I'm not one of the top earning bloggers and very far from even thinking about making living out of this hobby, I like doing it. I love seeing how my style has evolved over years and how much my tastes have changed. Having a few more collaboration and sponsorship opportunities helps as well .

I just wanted to say a huge thank you to those who have been following me, supporting me and encouraging me along the way. I could not have done it without the help of my awesome husband, photographer sister and all those who visit/comment and share about my blog. 

Thank you so much for reading and following this girl's humble dream!

Link Up: Mama and More 

Dress Review {eShakti}

dress: eShakti c/o
heels: Zara (similar1, similar2)
clutch: DIY (similar1, similar2)
bracelet: J.Crew (similar)

I'm so very excited about this post! I've been working with eShakti for a few months to get this dress fit just right. According to most measurement charts, I have an irregular body shape, with a tiny waist and sometimes two sizes larger hips. Almost every dress I wear needs custom alterations to fit just right. 

When eShakti first approached me, I was super excited to work with them. First I ordered the dress based on their size chart but it was too big. So I send them my measurements and they customized another dress for me. Although, I think their sizing runs a tad large so if in doubt, size down. 

The customer service team was super patient and understanding and even after I mixed up the measurements twice, they didn't drop me. Honestly, I love the fact that I was able to add sleeves, because there is nothing more I love like a perfect pencil dress. The stripes give it a Kate Spade-ish feel and make me feel glamorous, while staying very comfortable. 

I have mentioned this online retailer before when I was doing post on modest clothes and so glad that I got a chance to wear one of their dresses.  

eShakti created a coupon code 'ANNES' exclusively for HAPPY MEDLEY readers to get 10% OFF your next purchase. PLUS you can register with them and receive another $25 off! 

Please note:

Code has to be entered in the ‘promotional code’ box.   It is not case-sensitive.  

Code can be used any number of times until the validity period. 

It can be clubbed with any other promotional offer, gift coupon or gift card in the same order unless explicitly specified otherwise in the offer conditions.

This discount code is not applicable on clearance / sale, gift cards & overstock categories.

Not applicable on previous purchases. 

This is a sponsored post but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Shopping [Modest Clothing]

As a Christian girl, I strive to dress appropriately and modestly. My church does not impose any rules in this manner and the decisions which I make are my own. They come from personal convictions, upbringing and culture I grew up in, as well as current trends. What may look modest to me, may not be the case for you and vice versa.
I've been struggling with buying modest clothes ever since I was a teenager. Every spring stores put out shorts that are shorted then  underwear, and cuts that would make me blush. The celebrities are wearing close to nothing and the popular magazines promote 'less is more' mantra. Our culture has lost a sense decency, and what it means to be a lady. A true lady demands respect for herself just by the way she dresses, talks and walks.
It's hard to find trendy and fashionable clothes that satisfy benchmark for appropriate, but it's certainly possible. With a little effort, you can look good without compromising your beliefs and standards. Here are some of my favorite stores that feature modest clothing. I haven't shopped at all of them, but love looking at their pretty designs hoping to buy something soon.

Corilynn knows her stuff! This girl knows how to design modern, gorgeous, quirky clothes. I don't know if I have ever seen a design I didn't like. I will have one of each!

Shabby Apple  is my absolute favorite for dresses! I love their prints, lengths and retro styles. They have everything from retro to pencil dress, tulle skirts and polka dot prints. I'm drooling over their Sydney collection and really want to take a plunge on this number. They even have cute retro swimsuits which I absolutle adore! Who said your you should enjoy the sun in itsy-bitsy?

Jen Clothing features wide variety of cute dress, skirts, tops and even bathing suits. I like that the prices are really reasonable which means more value for our buck. They collaborate with bloggers and frequently do discounts, and almost always something cute.

Downeast Basics features everyday clothing that's cute, lady-like and modest. Love this pencil skirt which would be perfect for spring and summer. And obviously they have a great selection of dresses. I absolutely love this red dress.

eShakti is an online only store that has every retro frock imaginable. I love that you can customize any dress' length, sleeve type, pockets and more. If you like the print but not sure about the cut of the neckline, you can change it up and request something different. It's like designing your own dress and making it look perfect for your body type and modesty standards. Can it get any better?

Boden Clothing  is a United Kingdom based store which sells to US. I love their easy-peasy dresses and simple tops. This line makes me want to put on a dress and go to farmer's marker. I love their new collection of printed summer dresses - serious swoon!

Dorothy Perkins offers a great selection of dresses, skirts and tops. I'm currently stocking this floral dress as it's sitting in my Shopping Bag, just waiting to be picked up. I own one of their dresses and must say that I love everything about it. If you need something pretty and cheap, this is your place

J.Crew is a timeless giant when it comes to modest, pretty pieces - everything from their pencil skirts to dresses is radiated with elegance and beauty. I love that store (can you tell?).

Kingdom and State is a new and emerging retailer with some cool stuff. I love their take on timeless pieces yet they keep it modest. Plus they just rolled out their new swim collection which has seriously cute briefs but believe it or not, they sell out very fast. Get your shopping on now!

And there you have it...
Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day!