Last month I headed in to Dallas for a blogger style conference, aka girl’s weekend with my favorite blogger friends. It was chock full of technical talk, late-night pizza, tons of laughs, and some great style inspiration. I tried to soak up as much information as I could, but mostly, I just appreciated the dedicated girl time.
This is my fifth year attending Reward Style’s conference, the company that enables me to link all my favorite styles here on the blog, and through Like to Know it on Instagram. This year we mixed things up a bit, and I roomed with these gorgeous girls (we missed you, Carly!). They are so much fun, and I’m grateful for their friendships…both in the ‘blogging world’ and the ‘real world.’
Blogging can be isolating, as 80% of it is spent alone behind a computer, so it’s essential to have a tribe! We’ve all been at this gig for years, and it’s essential to have people to talk through ideas, projects, contracts, etc. These girls are all so generous with their time and knowledge, and a day doesn’t go by that we don’t have 10 messages on our group text. They are the equivalent of work colleagues, but more! Here’s a peek at our weekend, along with what I wore!
Ashley | Megan | Sheaffer | Mallory
It was a steamy day, so for arrival and registration, I opted for a light sundress and wedges…which was comfy, but pulled together. I always feel more myself in dresses, so I choose them over jeans and shorts in situations when I want to feel confident, regardless of the ‘dress code’. And a conference with 200 style bloggers is one of those times!
Fit Tip: The dress is a sturdy chambray linen, and I’m wearing an XS. If you’re over 5’6″, it might be too short for you.
Faux-Wrap Dress | Earrings | Bag | Wedge
The first night’s event was held on the pool deck, so this colorful dress was perfect…and these neutral shoes were comfy enough to stand for hours.
Fit Tip: The top is a stretchy knit and it’s true to size, I’m wearing a 0.
Handkerchief Hem Abstract Dress | Striped Clutch | Sandals | Flower Earrings
Handkerchief Hem Abstract Dress | Striped Clutch | Sandals | Flower Earrings
Sheaffer | Megan | Ashley | Sarah | Mallory
The next day was full of classroom sessions, meetings, and a courtyard lunch. The weather took a turn for the chilly, so I wore this cropped jumpsuit and my stand-by jean jacket. Seriously, I never travel without one! It comes in handy more than you’d think, and works with virtually every outfit.
Fit Tip: The jumpsuit is a favorite this season, and a lightweight chambray. I’m wearing a regular 0.
Striped Jumpsuit | Jean Jacket | Earrings | Sunglasses | Wedges
Later that afternoon, I had a series of brand meetings, with Banana Republic and Kendra Scott being two of them. I figured I might as well prove how much I already adore them by wearing their clothes…so I changed into this one-shoulder jumpsuit and statement earrings! #suckup
One-Shoulder Jumpsuit | Earrings | Wedges | Sunglasses
A quick change into this white lace dress, and we were out-the-door for a Cocktail Party in the hotel’s gorgeous courtyard.
Similar White Dress by same brand | Embellished Sandals | Clutch | Earrings
Another day of sessions and meetings, in my new favorite shirtdress. The fit-and-flare silhouette has never let me down, and I always feel 100% myself in it, so this dress was an easy choice for meeting new people.
Tie-Waist Shirtdress | Earrings | Wedges | Sunglasses
And for the third year in a row, I wore this lace midi dress to the finale party! It’s my go-to cocktail dress, and always gets so many compliments. (Size up one!) I could have bought a new dress, but I honestly feel good in this one, and that’s key in feeling confident! Plus, I promise no one remembers what you wore yesterday, let alone a year ago! And if they do, so what?!
Lace Midi Dress | Sandals | Earrings | Clutch
RewardStyle knows how to throw a memorable party (this one was at the Arboretum, overlooking the lake!), and we had the best time. So grateful for these smart, passionate girls!
The final morning was spent reliving the night before over room service breakfast (dance parties always involve next-day stories!!) …then I headed home in this soft tee and comfiest jeans.
Ruffle Sleeve Tee | Fave Dark Jeans
It was an inspiring, educational, fun weekend, and I’m already counting down the days until we can get together again. Life gets going so fast that it’s hard to set aside dedicated girlfriend time, but I know it’s essential to my joy. How often do you have time alone with your friends? Do you have a standing date so it’s already on your calendar? I need to be better about it, so I’d love to hear how you make time to nurture your friendships!
P.S. Did you enter to win the entire Gibson x Hi Sugarplum Collection yet?! The giveaway closes tomorrow and the winner will be announced Wednesday!
