The Belle Diaries

Favorite Ways to Stay Active During Quarantine

2020-05-16T12:24:00.001-04:00

Since we have now been quarantined for almost two months, I wanted to share some of my favorite ways to stay active at home.

Zwift - No secret this is my go-to way of working out at home. We got a bike trainer in the beginning of quarantine and have been loving using it with Zwift. We can do workouts, participate in races, join special events, and ride with friends virtually.

Running - I currently have a daily 5k run streak going and it has been a good way of going out and enjoying some fresh air (or cold, rainy air). I have kept my runs at least 3mi during quarantine, as I didn't want to stray too far from home during all of this. I've also tried for them to be pretty easy overall as we all need our immune system to be in tip top shape, and hard workouts can stress your body. I try for them not to be boring, so I change the routes, the time of day, take Wilson, change shoes, try a new music playlist - anything to keep my entertained.

Instagram Workouts - I'm sure you've seen everyone on Instagram suddenly becoming fitness gurus and posting workouts. I've saved posts, IGTV, and IG Lives of great workouts I've seen or done. I bought some resistance bands earlier this year and have loved adding some saved workouts using them. They can be hard but soo good! My favorite accounts are Kira Stokes (Candace Cameron, Ashley Graham, and Shay Mitchell's trainer) and Cara Loren (a beautiful mom, shop owner and fitness addict), who both have healthy outlooks about daily fitness.

Yoga - I've definitely slowed down on my yoga, but I try to do my own yoga moves throughout the day. A lot are easy stretching workouts when I feel a little tight from my runs or workouts. However, I used to do the Yoga by Adriene videos on Youtube regularly, so if I need an actual workout, I check out her channel.

Walking - If you have a dog then you have the best excuse to get out of the house and walk! I normally go out daily with Wilson and do a lap around our neighborhood, or the park near our house. It's a great way for him to get some exercise and for you to stretch your legs after working from home all day. Make sure to stay a safe distance from everyone you see!

Rolling - This one is not technically considered a "workout" but I definitely feel like it is sometimes. I have been rolling more to ease my muscles due to the running streak and the IG workouts. When your body is sore, it can be very beneficial to roll your muscles to help them recover. If you have never rolled, then this might not seem like a workout, but when you're on the floor balancing your body in a certain way you activate certain muscles and this can really strengthen them. Make sure to go slow and take it easy.

No one is really expecting anyone to workout during this time, as it can be a really emotional and stressful time for many, but working out can really help with stress. So if you try doing any of the above, or just meditate when you have a moment, your body will appreciate any movements. I don't necessarily do all of these daily because that can really be physically exhausting for your body, but if I feel like my body is not tired, I do a few because I truly enjoy them and they make me feel better.

Have you been working out during this time? What are your favorite workouts to do?

My Daily Work Day Apple Watch Watchface

2020-05-12T17:49:00.000-04:00

Watch: Apple Watch series 4

Watchface Type: Infograph

Frequency of use: Mon-Fri, work hours usually

Background:

I work from home everyday, so one of the main reasons I got my Apple Watch was for easy access to information without going to my phone. After trying many different faces, I have created the perfect watch face for the needs I have throughout my working day. I often will keep my phone away from me when I work, and my watch gives me exactly what I normally would check on my phone, without all the fuss of unlocking it, opening apps, and waiting for that info to populate. I like to switch my watch faces, but this one is the one I use like 75% of the time.

I know there are a lot of people working from right now due to COVID-19, and are looking for ways to stay organized. If you have an Apple Watch here are some useful complications for your watch to keep you motivated and make the best use of your watch during this time at home!

Complications (starting from inside, clockwise):

Clock - A basic analog in the middle of the watch face, that I barely use since during work hours, since I work in EST time zone for work instead CDT. So I usually go by my work computer. But time is there, in case I need it.

Activity - I constantly check my circles during the day, especially the Stand. If you add the activity to that middle complication, it will give you the circles and also list it quantitatively. I prefer viewing both the number and the circles to keep me motivated.

Weather Temp - I like to have the weather in numbers because it honestly gives me more info than the other weather one with the description icon. I also like how this one shows the low and the high for the day.

Workout - right in the center to make sure it’s available if I need it at any time during my day! I sometimes do workouts at lunch or right after work.

Rain - It’s useful to know if it’s going to rain. I often close my window curtains in my home office(since the light is too bright) which makes me completely oblivious to rain outside. Useful for walks with Wilson and planning runs.

Reminders - a new one I added recently, but if you start to use it, it becomes really useful to complete tasks. I added it for work related things, but sometimes use it for chores or to-do. Shows if something is due or overdue.

Sunrise/Sunset - more useful in the winter, but good to know how much daylight will be left that day to plan my afternoon.

Battery - useful and needed when you constantly wear your watch! Can’t be bothered to swipe up to look for this.

Timer - best for last! My most used complication. My work is very timed in every aspect, so my breaks and lunches are timed. Before having my watch, I used to use my phone and had to carry it around. Now, I just set the timer for the time I need (it will save up to 3 frequently used timers) and I don’t need to take my phone.

I love talking about my Apple Watch because I think it's such a powerful little device. I hope this was useful and that at least one of the above uses was helpful. If you have any other requests for watch related posts, let me know below. Stay safe everyone!

PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

Favorite Finds #1

2019-06-07T16:46:00.000-04:00

I wanted to start doing quick posts about things I have either purchased recently, or have found that I had to share. So here's my quick update on two products I have been liking.

TENOVERTEN NAIL POLISH

I have recently stopped using gel polish due to my current fitness routine, and have found a great clean alternative with the Tenoverten nail polishes. I bought the "Pale White" at Target, but may place an order in the future for the "White" and "Black" colors. The formulation is creamy and luscious-feeling. I almost still feel like I'm still wearing gel after applying a few coats. It's that good!

SUPERGOOP SETTING MIST

Well, I have officially become that person that instead of ordering makeup from Sephora, my Sephora Sale order consisted of just SPF products. I ordered the mini setting mist from supergoop and it's one of my favorite things right now. It's so small (they carry full size too), and I can add extra SPF coverage on top of my makeup. I obviously don't just rely on this little baby for sun coverage, but it's nice to carry this and have it on the go for when you need extra protection.

I hope you enjoyed this quick update on my current favorite products.

Keep checking back for more products!

-Isabel

Five Chicago Favorites

2018-07-07T13:47:00.003-04:00

We just celebrated one year since moving to Chicago, and I thought it would be a good time to share/recap a few favorites of our new home city. Before moving, I saved places constantly - from restaurants, shops, salons, and attractions. Of course, all with the very important question in mind: Are they Instagram worthy? There are so many places to see in the city so here are my top five favorite spots in Chicago from this past year.

Restoration Hardware / 3 Arts Club Cafe

Oh yes, the famous interiors store with it's beautiful Cafe. You have probably seen Restoration Hardware stores in many photos online, and will probably recognize the 3 Arts Club Cafe as well. However, not to be biased but Chicago RH's is probably the most beautiful one I have seen. With the building's many levels looking down on the Cafe, you get some amazing views while eating some savory meals. Beware of wait times for the cafe though as it's a hot spot in the city! Oh, don't forget to go to the rooftop for a city view.

Cafecito

I'm including Cafecito because this is the easiest and quickest way a Cuban like myself can get a taste of home. There are a few locations in the city but they are always busy. Grab yourself a cafe con leche (simplified for you as a sweet "latte" - the Cuban way) and a Palomilla(a delicious sandwich with steak and potato strips - my mouth is watering just typing this!). Which are my favorite go-to guilty pleasures.

Sprout Home

I had to include my favorite plant shop in the city. It has given me my beautiful birds of paradise plant for a nice price. Sprout has pretty much any plant you want, are very knowledgeable on them and will most likely have one in your price range. Perfection!

Miuti Nail Salon

As you may know, I have started a no chip/gel manicure relationship this past year. I have tried some salons and am now currently faithful to Miuti. It's not too close to the city, but it's worth it. The salon itself is decor perfection, while the service has been a pleasure. They pride themselves on great work and try to make your experience the best possible. Plus no judgement for getting the same white or black polish every time I go!

Wicker Park

I'm cheating with this one and adding a few favorites in one. If I have a free day to go to the city, you will most likely find me in the Wicker Park/Bucktown area. My favorites stores and hair salon (Epoch Hair Studio Salon) are located here. If you must visit a few spots, please check the very aesthetically pleasing Gather Home + Lifestyle store. It was my #1 spot to visit before moving here and now has become a must visit every time I'm in the area. My wardrobe is now filled with refreshingly simple pieces from Marine Layer, as well as ultra modern pieces from Oak + Fort. I have a few vlogs (here + here) from my adventures in this area and I'm sure there will be many more to come! And for a quick bite, please do yourself a favor and visit En Hakkore 2.0.

I know this list is probably no surprise to many of you, but I wanted to share in case you were visiting Chicago and needed some places to visit. It will be very interesting to see what my new favorites will be a year from now since I'm definitely a creature of habit.

Do you have any favorite Chicago spots I should check out? Leave them below.

10K Race, ZZ Plant Update & More

2018-05-02T17:58:00.001-04:00

Happy May everyone! I'm currently still sick(for the third time this year) as I'm typing this, but I knew I had to write this. Sill not sure what this post in general will be about, but we'll find out. Since I've been very stuffy lately and really itching to create content (mainly Youtube videos), I decided to head over here and just chat to whoever wants to read.

First, let's talk about my beautiful ZZ plant up there! I've been holding on to this photo, and wanted to share it because I'm such a proud plant momma (lol, yeah I said that). I have become such a plant lady since we moved to our own place. We currently have about five, and the number keeps growing anytime I go to a place that sells plants. But my ZZ (Zanzibar) plant is by far my favorite plant so far. It was the first one I got for our home, and it was so tiny compared to how tall it is lately! I love watching it grow since it's such an easy plant to take care of. I would really love to do a whole post or video just about my plants, but I'll spare you from that for a bit.

April was such a good month for me overall. If you missed it over on my Instagram - John and I completed our first 10k together! I would post a photo of us but I have the worst after-race photos ever! Back in 2014, while I was still in college, we did a 5k - just for fun really since it was on Thanksgiving. Don't get me wrong, this 10k was technically also "just for fun". John signed us up with zero training just 2 weeks before the race since his coworkers also decided to randomly sign up. I actually got very focused on prepping for it since I'm not entirely fit compared to my active soccer playing boyfriend. So I primed 2-day shipped an arm band for my phone to get some music for my runs, and started running every other day. I love running and it's by far one of my favorite fitness-related activities, so this was the push I needed to get back into it. Long story short (or for another blog post), we completed the race and I was very proud of myself. I definitely improved from my 5k, but it was not the best I could probably do, so now I'm looking to bring running back into my routine, and maybe sign up for a half marathon in the Fall or Spring.

I also accomplished a pretty important life goal of mine in April, that hopefully I will chat more about it when I completely fulfill the other half of that goal. As for life general, it has been really nice to have some warmer days now since even in April we had some snow days. But I've been really looking forward to Spring/Summer here in Chicago and hopefully taking advantage of the many fun things to do here.

I'll end this for now since I've been coughing up a storm this whole time. I will try to post new videos as soon as I'm not so nasally and stuffy, since no one wants to hear me like that.

Don't forget to subscribe to my channel to keep up with my latest videos!

Opalhouse Top Picks

2018-04-14T03:49:00.002-04:00

I know I'm not the only one that loves a good Target collection. So I figured I'd make a list of the latest home collection from Target, called Opalhouse. Not going to lie, I was not attracted to it from the initial advertisement. Then one day I decided to check it out, just in case, and found there were some non-colorful pieces that actually really attracted me. As you know super colorful home decor is not my style, and this line with it's very Anthropologie-looking pieces was a bit more color than I'm used to. So I put together some items that I could easily add to my home that are more on the neutral side.

The main mini collection within Opalhouse that caught my eye was the very black and white Mallorca collection. Although this new brand is advertising to decorate with pattern upon pattern, my motto for decor is the opposite of this. A couple of prints here and there but definitely not pattern on pattern. So here are my top picks from the collection as well as some tips on how to incorporate it to what you already own.

FURNITURE

Rattan! That has been the word of year in terms of indoor home furnitures for me. I don't know what it is, but I love the beautiful woody color and how it can make a room instantly feel cozier. Target has done it again and given us some affordable pieces that are similar to some very pricey alternatives that are pretty popular. The best piece in terms of furniture in this collection is this rattan fan chair, which is pretty comparable to this one I pinned. I mean I could literally do a whole post for my love for natural colored chairs. They also have some other collections which includes the Minsmere Caned set that is very wicker-looking, and the Touraco set that has a similar feel to our West Elm console. I also included another rattan black side table and natural plant holder from the same set (since they both come in the same colors), because I really like both and wanted to show how either can work for you.

DECOR

Adding the right touches to your home is a perfect way to make a room feel new and exciting again. One of the first pieces I liked from Opalhouse was this striped rug. I wanted to set it by our sliding door so Wilson could lay there and watch outside. It's a bath rug though, but who really cares if it works where you want it to? I also considered this white rug as well! As for more decor-type pieces, this Mallorca wall art is so different yet intriguing to me that I had to add it. It can be a great accent piece by an entryway or anywhere really! Then came the little white dotted wood box, which was another love at first sight item. I can find a million uses for it anywhere in the house. Lastly, we have yet to add accent lamps to pretty much all of our rooms that need them, but I really like this cream one and this beautiful palm leaves one. They are both fairly simple and not too crazy that they would fit perfectly in our living room.

LINEN/PILLOWS

As I mentioned many times, the items that absolutely caught my eye are the Mallorca collection. However, too much pattern can make it feel very ovewhelming so I found the perfect set for my black and white lovers. This black border bed sheets set has just enough going on to be the perfect in between for the Mallorca-loving peeps that don't want to commit to all the patterns. Of course, I also found this simple embroidered white set with just some very small details. Continuing with the black accents, there were these two floor pillows, a simple black velvet and a patterned one! I've been wanting a floor pillow for our living and either of these would be perfectly. I felt like I needed to include at least one of the shower curtains, and this one has tassels!

KITCHENWARE

Although there were some fun colors to choose from, none of the kitchen items caught my eye, until I noticed they all included clear ones. The clear cups in particular are my favorites because on their own they remind me of see-through Diptyque candles. Right? They have many beautiful trays but I liked this one that had some black accents to it. I also found this giraffe jar, which hear me out - I would actually use it as decor. I think it would be really good on a shelf as an accent piece, or in a safari-themed nursery! Also, randomly found this picnic basket and it really spoke to me with it's utensil holders, and I had to share it. Lastly, if you really like Mallorca items but don't want to commit to anything then why not pick up this patterned mug? Adorable!

FINAL THOUGHTS

So what did you think of Opalhouse from my perspective? If you were undecided and overwelmbed about the brand because of the bright colors and patterns, did this help? I found that this actually made me fall in love with the collection even more. Let me know if you plan on getting any of these pieces!

Top 5 Spots To Visit in Sevilla

2018-04-10T17:01:00.000-04:00

Sevilla, view from Las Setas

Sevilla (or Seville if you're saying it in English) is one of our favorite places to visit in Europe. There aren't many spots I have revisited in Europe, but Sevilla is one of them, and I wouldn't think twice of going back. It was one of John's favorite cities to visit and now it has become one of mine. I have so many suggestions for many of the cities I have visited, but because both John and I have the most experience here, I figured I'd start here first. So here are my top five spots to visit in Sevilla, written by a big fan of the city.

Plaza de España

This was the first stop I ever visited in the city. If you're staying in the center it's a fairly short walk outside of the "old city". You get to see some of the real streets and people. The plaza is located in Parque de Maria Luisa, and surrounded by other parks so you will see a very lively area no matter what time of the day you visit.

Parque de Maria Luisa

walls of all the provinces

bonds and bridges of the plaza

It was built for the World Fair of 1929 that was hosted in Sevilla. It is suppose to represent Spain and all of the provinces. Each are illustrated in the walls as you walk around. With it's beautiful colors, ponds, bridges, benches and walkways, it is an astounding artwork to behold. Not to mention it was the city of Theeds in the planet of Naboo in Star Wars: Episode II Attack of the Clones. Oh yes, it was!

source: starwarsplaces.com

Las Setas

I first saw Las Setas (translated to The Mushrooms in English) or also known as Metropol Parasol, when John visited the first Summer we started dating. I remember thinking how different it looked and was kind of confused by it too. Mostly because I didn't understand what it was for. The area used to be an old parking lot that did not do much for the city, and is now a very cool spot to see the city from above, as you walk around the path built on the setas. I recommend visiting during sunset as it makes for a very magical photos!

John on the walking area above Las Setas

view from Las Setas of La Giralda and Cathedral

Alcazar

If I could revisit one spot in Sevilla right now, I would pick this one. Mostly because I feel like there was not enough time to see and admire the beauty of it. It was a palace built for the king of Spain of that time period. Today it is regarded as one of the World Heritage Sites.

ceiling details inside

The palace is absolutely breathtaking. The rooms are decorated with lively colors and designs from the influence left behind by the Moors that ruled the area. This influence can be seen in much of the Iberian peninsula which Sevilla is a part of. You will get to see halls, palace rooms, gardens, and probably a few peacocks. There is also a maze that John decided to run away from me in. Yeah, that happened. haha I don't think I have enough words to describe how beautiful this location it is, so here are some photos, but definitely do yourself a favor and visit.

view of the maze (bottom left of photo) and gardens

one of the beautiful peacocks roaming the area

Oh, and another fun fact: many shots from the city of Dorne in Game of Thrones Season 5, were shot inside the palace.

my photo of the gardens was taken inside that long wall on the left - source: travelzoo.com

La Giralda \ Catedral de Sevilla

La Giralda

Starting this section with a did you know fact for you. There is a building in downtown Chicago, called the Wrigley Building that was modeled after La Giralda. The original is a bell tower within the Cathedral de Sevilla, or the Seville Cathedral. The entrance to the Cathedral gets you access to the tower. I would recommend visiting both for the history of both and the beautiful orange courtyard, but the tower was quite the experience. Inside the Cathedral you will also find th tomb of Christopher Columbus. There is no elevator in this grand tower, so to get to the top you go up 35 segments of inclined sections. As you can see in my vlog, it was a good cardio experience for me. However, once at the top you get to see the bells of the tower as well as a 360 view of Sevilla. You can see pretty much everything mentioned in this post from above.

view from La Giralda towards the Alcazar

orange courtyard within the Cathedral

tomb of Christopher Columbus

Puente De Isabel II

view from Triana of the bridge

Not sure if most "top things" articles for Sevilla would mention the Bridge of Isabel II, but I have a few reasons why I'm including this. To start off: the name. I was obsessed with anything that had my name, and sometimes my last name, in Sevilla. Trust me, there were a lot. The second reason, is the view. You get a scenic view of the city of Sevilla with it's river, that is said to be where Christopher Columbus departed from in his voyage in 1492. In this view you also can see Torre De Oro (translated to Tower of Gold) which is another tower that sits along the Guadalquivir River Canal. If you have more time, on the West of the bridge you will have the town of Triana. It is a quirky neighborhood, and walking along Calle Betis can be very romantic at night with the restaurants that can be found along it.

John and I on the bridge, on our latest visit to Sevilla

I could write a book's worth of information on Sevilla and on things to do, so I'll leave my other suggestions for other posts, but let me know if you have any questions. Personally, Spain as a country has made me fall in love with it. So I would gush over any of the cities I have visited, but Sevilla holds an extra special place and I consider it another home. If you're planning to visit, please let me know and I hope this quick guide helps in any way!

Also, here is the link to my vlog from our latest trip to Sevilla!

Current Home Decor Favorites

2018-03-05T17:05:00.003-05:00

For a while now, I have been scavenging the web and stores for lots of decor ideas for pretty much every type of room. From the kitchen and bedrooms, to the garage and front porch. Now that we have a place of our own I've been wanting to do these type of posts to keep track of my ideas and share them in case others are looking for similar styles.

1. Black Marble Mirror

Although I've had my eye on some other mirrors, this one might be the ideal one for someone else. It's so beautiful and simple that somehow it always catches my eye everytime I'm on the Target site, so I just had to mention it on this post. I think the marble and black together are very complimentary and I like how the mirror can be rotated around.

2. Modern Artwork

West Elm has the best wall art! I've added a few to my list but have yet to decide on any. This one would be my safest option, but yet the classiest one that I would not get tired of. If that one is a little too dark, maybe this lighter one might be more your style.

3. Spotted Bin

I look at this laundry bin, and it screams me. I have been into polka dots for many years, but lately these clusters of dots are more my style. If your home style is very neutral than this can be the perfect pattern to add to make everything come together. I also like this striped one too!

4. Lamp

Oh, this lamp! This is a piece I have been absolutely in love with. I've seen it around the web for while and have been saving a special place for it in the office. It's a pricey little thing, but I love the design so much. Here is option no.2 (in black as well) also by Louis Poulsen, because all his stuff is beautiful!

5. Zebra Tea Towel

Oddball item of the group, for sure. Now, you'll say, "Isabel, what are these zebras doing here?" - well, I don't know what it is about them, but I will tell you they will be on my next H&M home decor order (and maybe these, if they stock them in black). I love that it has black and white, and who doesn't love zebras!?

6. Coat Rack

Another absolute love! The lamp above, and this item are my top two splurge home items if I could justify them right now. But gosh, I know it looks boring and simple, but here is an inspo photo to convince you. They do have some other colors. But I can't get enough of this black one!

7. Silver Throw Pillow

This silken wool pillow is so dreamy. First of all, it comes in other colors (if silver is not your thing). The cool thing about these pillows are that they have outlines of a different color, which is a very beautiful touch. So you can easily get your favorite decor colors all in one pillow.

8. Black Clock

I'm thinking ahead for our kitchen reno, but I have been eyeing simple black clocks for a while. I plan to keep the kitchen color close to a white, so this clock would look perfect with the walls and wood cabinets. This one is another very simple option!

9. Black Metal Planter

Black metal planters are my favorite at the moment. They would look so perfect with a wooden furniture or all white one too, and pretty much with any type of plant. It's the perfect elegant and modern planter. Plus, the planter and stand are two separate pieces, so you can use them with different stands, or planters. I know, mind-blowing!

Design is a very personal thing, so if you like any of these, don't think you have to have the exact items, same color scheme or all of these together in one room to make them work. These were just some of the things that have caught my eye and even my own style is constantly changing. So let know if any of these interest you, and if you would like to see more of these types of posts. :)

PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

Rainy Day In Museum

2018-03-02T15:24:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, we finally ventured off into the city on our own. I know what you're thinking. But yes, we're slowly creeping into being here for almost a year, but this was the first time we were completely by ourselves. We don't live in the city but when we go in, it's usually because 1) we have friends/family visiting, 2) hanging out with friends/coworkers, or 3) somehow end up with either of the first two options somehow. So needless to say, when I realized we had no plans with anyone, I was pretty happy to have a date in the city.

We have visited many of the main places in Chicago, but now that we've been here for some time, we want to do slightly less touristy things, like visit new exhibits at the museums. John really wanted to visit The Art Institute of Chicago, so that's where we spent our first day alone in the city. Art museums are definitely one of our favorite types of museum, so we knew we were going to return. But get this - nothing says "we're sticking around" more than getting a year membership to the museum! Oh, yes, we did. So for now, I'll leave you with this little story, but I'm sure we will be back and I'll have even more to talk about. But if you're visiting the area, I really recommend it. There is so much to see and read about the pieces of history they have. Plus, they have a package for the museum and Skydeck for $47! What a bargain!

Universal Thread: First Impressions + Try On

2018-02-06T21:30:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks back I read about Target launching Universal Thread and I was really excited. Mostly because the line looked very similar to a lot of the styles I already shop for (in stores that are not Target). But fast forward to today, and the day has come. So since I've been eyeing the line for a while, I wanted to give you my thoughts on the items I would probably, and will, be buying from this line.

I decided that the best way to get my thoughts on the line was to go ahead and try some of the items out. So on the release day of the line, February 4th, I took a trip to Target. Here are some of the looks I went for.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS TRY-ON

striped top | skinny jeans | sandals

FLOWY STRIPED SHIRT + BLACK JEANS

This shirt was so pretty on. I can picture it with jeans, shorts or tucked into other bottoms. It fit nicely as my slight smile can tell you. Love the color!

These jeans are AMAZING! Starting my try-on with a bang because these were my favorite pair of the night. I got the size 10 in short and they fit like a glove. The black color was nice and rich (until I probably wish them a handful of times lol).

black cardigan | cropped gray skinny

BLACK CARDIGAN + GRAY JEANS

I'm a cardigan girl and immediately gravitated towards this black one when I saw it. It was a little thick but still fit nicely. It had nice pockets and looked great with the striped t-shirt.

I've been looking for some nice gray jeans, and these my friend, were not it. I don't understand the distressed part at the bottom, but I still gave them a shot. I think they fit fine, but I was so distracted with my foot getting stuck in the distressed part when putting them on, that I forgot anything else about them. haha

curvy jeans | striped t-shirt

CURVY BLACK JEANS

Nope, not for me. I did not like these at all. I was so excited about the "curvy" styles of jeans they were releasing, since I rarely find normal jeans (non-stretch) that fit me. I'm curvier at the hips and slimmer at down my legs, so if the jean has no stretch then I ain't fitting. But these fit nice at the hips (a little lose honestly) but these are length size "short", guys.. Can you see the bulking of extra fabric at the bottom? I just don't understand it.

However, totally for curvy sizes! I will give them a chance some other time. Thanks Target for thinking of everyone!

light denim jacket

LIGHT DENIM JACKET

So I had high expectations for this line, since they have so many cute things I would wear at very affordable prices. I didn't go in thinking I would find the perfect denim jacket, but here we are. It was love at first try-on. I would have totally passed on them on a normal day, but I'm so glad I try this denim jacket on. It fit perfect. It has a bit of a stretch which was perfect since I always think of being tight and uncomfortable when I think of jean jackets.

dark denim jacket | jeggings

DARK DENIM JACKET + JEGGING

Ok, so I didn't get this one, but as I keep seeing photos I took, chances are very high for me going back for it. I think they look great with these.. jeggings. Yes, you read that correctly! Another item that was absolutely perfect. The jeggings were in the "short" size and fit perfectly for my height. They have decorative pockets in the front, and real ones in the back. But oh my, look at that color! It was beautiful. I can't wait to get lots of uses out of it.

crew neck t-shirt

GRAY T-SHIRT

The t-shirts in this line deserve a picture to themselves because they're pretty great. They have nice neutral colors and patterns and fit great. I loved the striped t-shirt from earlier, but loved this one more. I already own gray t-shirts, but I loved how high this one went. They did not have my size, Medium, so I tried Large just 'cause, and looks pretty perfect! I can see myself using this one a lot. I'm also pretty picky with my gray t-shirts as sometimes the graininess on the pattern is too much, but this one was just right. As you can see it looks very nice slightly tucked into jeans (or leggings in this case), or with a denim jacket (pictured above).

sweatshirt

WHITE SWEATSHIRT

This was one of those items that I really wanted to find. I can get some good use out of it now since it's still pretty cold here, and would look great year-round. They had some other colors but I'm feeling pretty black, gray and white these day. So white one, was absolutely perfect and will work with everything else I got. Also, not pictured here, but I did try this on with one of the denim jackets and it was light enough to be good with them too! So I would totally recommend it for everyday.

long sleeve shirt

WHITE SHIRT

Best for last! Well, best in my eyes. My best friend and I have been looking for simple white buttoned down shirts, and this might be a good affordable find. I was wearing a black bra (bad planning on my part), but you can't even tell. It was nice and lose and still perfect to wear with any outfit it calls for. Obviously not like Jcrew quality, but pretty great basic piece to have for all occasions.

OVERALL THOUGHTS

This new Target release lived up, and surpassed my expectations. I was so impressed with their range in sizes, colors, pattern, quality and styles. The best part guys, they have so many sizes for plus size ladies - up to size 26. That includes them in short, regular and long! I'm so impressed. I really hope that if you are looking for new jeans or nice basic everyday pieces, then you check out this line. I am definitely a fan and recommend them.

Size reference from try-on:

Tops: Medium (all but gray t-shirt, which was Large since they were out of anything smaller than that)
Bottoms: Size 10, Short

TOP PICKS

If you share the same type of style as me, then here are some of my top picks from the line:

A New Start

2018-02-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

It feels good to write here again. I started this blog almost 8 years ago. It has been so many different things over the years, which I'm happy about, but sometimes it's good to start over. If you've been here before and have seen my posts over the years, then you may notice that well - they're all gone. Publicly they are, but they still live in my archives.

I've changed a lot since starting my little space on the internet. In fact, I was in high school then, as the story goes, and was watching Julie and Julia. Amy Adam's (love her!) character starts a cooking blog to document her journey cooking Julia Child's recipes. Although my blog was never suppose to be about cooking, I got my inspiration to have my own little nook on the internet from that. However, I have been blogging since the AOL days, where I had a "homepage" and private "diaries", hence the diaries in my blog's name (and a homage to The Princess Diaries).You can guess where the "belle" part came from. ;) Plus being an only child, talking to myself is kind of therapeutic for me.

For those that are new - welcome! My name is Isabel, I live in Chicago with my boyfriend and our dog. We recently moved here and have been together now for half a decade. I've shared a lot of my life on the Internet for many, many, years and would like to continue doing so, but with a bit more organization and look that feels like my own. I am naturally a creative person and have always liked to create and try different things and styles. So over the year, my blog has been lost in translation in comparison with my styles. So now, that I'm entering my late 20s, I hope to have a more mature and uniformed look online and offline.

The Belle Diaries is one of my favorite places online, purely because it's my diary. I hope to share more thoughts, photos, tips, and stories on here, and hopefully interact with others that share my same interests. If you've read this far, then I hope to see you again for more chats.

See you soon!

Isa

If you're new, don't be shy, and say hi below! :)

(From photo: ceramic house | artificial plant bundle | tv stand)

The Belle Diaries

Favorite Ways to Stay Active During Quarantine

My Daily Work Day Apple Watch Watchface

Background:

Complications (starting from inside, clockwise):

PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

Favorite Finds #1

Five Chicago Favorites

Restoration Hardware / 3 Arts Club Cafe

Cafecito

Sprout Home

Miuti Nail Salon

Wicker Park

10K Race, ZZ Plant Update & More

Opalhouse Top Picks

FURNITURE

DECOR

LINEN/PILLOWS

KITCHENWARE

FINAL THOUGHTS

Top 5 Spots To Visit in Sevilla

Plaza de España

Las Setas

Alcazar

La Giralda \ Catedral de Sevilla

Puente De Isabel II

Current Home Decor Favorites

PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

Rainy Day In Museum

WHAT I'M WEARING

Universal Thread: First Impressions + Try On

FIRST IMPRESSIONS TRY-ON

FLOWY STRIPED SHIRT + BLACK JEANS

BLACK CARDIGAN + GRAY JEANS

CURVY BLACK JEANS

LIGHT DENIM JACKET

DARK DENIM JACKET + JEGGING

GRAY T-SHIRT

WHITE SWEATSHIRT

WHITE SHIRT

OVERALL THOUGHTS

Size reference from try-on:

TOP PICKS

A New Start