Selective Potential

It was all yellow

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Wed, 30 May 2012 02:23:00 +0000

It was hot this past weekend in Michigan! I was all about cotton dresses. I actually scored this dress at the Texas Style Council Conference clothing swap last March. I lost the tag though, so if you know who owned this dress before I did, let me know! I always love seeing how different bloggers style the same article of clothing. This dress was so easy to wear too. Of course, I love my floral prints, cut-out details and accents of red.

I keep thinking about how my blog is probably going to change a bit this summer and I'm okay with that. I've had such a "Michigan" focus on my blog for so long. I'm guessing I won't be taking as many trips and excursions this summer and I'm actually happy about that. I'm ready to explore this city more, take time off from traveling to and from places for blog posts and ready to get creative in other ways. Not to say I won't be taking a few fun trips this summer though!

Also, my band is playing our last show in Ravenna, Michigan on Saturday, June 2nd if you're in the area! We're playing a show called Fest, Fest and we're playing quite early in the day... 4:35 p.m., I believe? I'm a bit sad to be saying goodbye to Circle Maybe, but it was so much fun while it lasted. I have plans now to continue music with other friends. Hopefully something a bit more folky or acoustic-ish. I will, of course, keep you guys tuned!

Outfit details:

Swapped Forever 21 floral dress

Naked flats c/o Blowfish Shoes

Memorial Day

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Mon, 28 May 2012 23:31:00 +0000

Yay for long weekends! I've loved having four days off to recoup. I've spent a lot of time this weekend out with friends, seeing good bands, eating lots of food, watching movies and sleeping in tons. It was super desperately needed. Well, Memorial Day marks the "beginning" of summer, right? The weather is here to prove it. 90 degrees today. I'm currently in my studio just sweating it out. Don't worry, the cake batter ice-cream helped earlier today.

Spring flew by in two seconds, it felt like. I always feel a tad guilty running a personal style blog in summer because I dress so simply. In Michigan, the summers are always so hot and humid. All you ever feel like wearing is a simple cotton skirt/top or dress with sandals. I'll try to keep the creativity up, but don't expect much. ;)

I also just wanted to quickly say... thank you for your amazing support regarding my previous post. I've received over 200 emails from people who are going through the same situation or have gone through something similar. Most of the emails are 5-6 paragraphs long and insanely detailed and so heartfelt. There were several that brought me to tears. So thank you. I would love more than anything to respond to every single one, but I'm sorry if I can't. But I just wanted to say here that I read every single one (probably twice) and it means more than you know. Thank you.

Thank you to Lily for taking my photos!

Outfit details:

Peek-A-Boo tank c/o Sosie

Forever 21 skirt

Francesca's Collections bandeau

Warby Parker Preston Gimlet in Tortoise glasses

The Clara Bracelet c/o Vanessa Mooney

Outer Bank on It sandal in yellow c/o ModCloth

Shabby Babe Vintage Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Thu, 24 May 2012 21:34:00 +0000

This week's giveaway is from Shabby Babe Vintage!

They are offering one of my lucky readers a $50 store credit.

To enter, you must:

1) Name your favorite item from their shop

2) Subscribe to their newsletter

Bonus entry!

1) Like them on Facebook

(Please leave an additional comment)

This giveaway is open to U.S. and international readers.

Entries will be accepted until Tuesday, May 29 at 9 PM EST.

The winner of the ONA Bags giveaway is...

#188 // Lori Paulson!

Please email me to claim your prize!

Superdawg Sneak Peek!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Wed, 23 May 2012 16:08:00 +0000

This past weekend, I had the amazing opportunity to shoot another film with my friends, Nick and Andrew, of Little Cabin Films. We did a similar video last summer at the drive-in theater. This time, I headed out to Chicago to Superdawg for a day at the retro diner. I had so much fun and I absolutely love working with these guys. They are super talented and easy going and I know the video is going to turn out insanely perfect. Here's a few sneak peek photos thanks to Chris Del Sesto of ChrisSix photo + cinema. He did such a great job capturing the look and feel of the shoot and I love how his photos turned out. You can check out his website here and like him on Facebook too! I'll be posting the video as soon as I have it and I cannot wait to share with you guys.

Be sure to check out Little Cabin Film's website, Twitter and Facebook. If you're in the Chicago-land area and need any video work, these guys are insanely amazing. ♥

Letting go, moving on

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Mon, 21 May 2012 22:21:00 +0000

This will probably be the hardest post I'll ever have to write, but I know I have to address it at some point and that point should be sooner rather than later. I haven't gone about this in the best way possible, because I didn't know how to handle it, to be honest. I never in my life thought that I'd have a blog that reaches thousands of people on a daily basis. People that truly care about what is going on in my life and have genuine concern about what is happening. I've received the most insane amount of emails, tweets, calls and texts the past few weeks. It tore my heart to shreds to have so much support, from strangers to friends and family even when a lot of people didn't know what was going on. It has been insanely overwhelming and has gotten me through some pretty dark days the past few weeks.

Many of you will be shocked and saddened to hear that Brett and I have decided to go our separate ways. It's been a decision I've been struggling with for the past year and finally realized it's time for it to come to an end. Although I've made some big mistakes, Brett and I aren't saying anyone is at fault or finger pointing. He has been a huge part of my life, a best friend since I was a teenager. But somewhere in the past five years, we lost what we thought we had when we were younger. We somehow lost the passion. As much as I wanted to get it back, I couldn't anymore. It broke my heart that I stopped wanting to try. It was the hardest decision of my life to finally accept that. It wasn't because of anything negative Brett ever did. We never even fought. We even sat down and wrote this post together. Brett is one of the most amazing people I've ever known. But we are both feeling relieved and hopeful about the future and will continue to stay friends as we always have been.

Many of you have noticed I've struggled lately, especially with the little things, which isn't normally like me. I thought moving to Grand Rapids would help fix something between us. We'd have more to do in the city and we'd be closer to friends. But it just ended up tearing us more apart. The boxes stayed unpacked, the frames went unhung. I went through a scary episode with my eyes and I ended up overly freaking out about wearing glasses (seriously‚ who cares?) and I finally realized it wasn't the new city or the glasses. It was the fact that I knew my marriage was ending and it was inevitable. It shocked me even when my closest friends and parents weren't surprised at our news. They all knew something I chose to ignore for a very long time. It's been a huge wake-up call.

I still believe in love. I absolutely believe in marriage. I'll never stop believing in those things. Ever. I saw my grandparents grow old together and celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. How could I not believe in true love? This just wasn't it for Brett or I. We were best friends, who perhaps got married too young. I don't at all regret the past six years of my life with him. They've held some of the best memories of my life and his. And we are both going to stay in each other's lives as friends. As sad as it is with what's happening, Brett and I have stayed close, promising to take care of each other through this process because we honestly do care about each other. Just not in the way a husband and wife should care about each other. We lost the fight, but we won some amazing times along the way. He'll always be a HUGE part of my life and I know I will be a huge part of his. We have no regrets. But we both know this is the best decision and we're ready to move on and accomplish the things we couldn't do together.

I'm terrified to hit publish on this post, but I feel like this is something I needed to do before I could fully move on. We both have an amazing support system, so I know we won't have to walk down this road alone. I'm terrified of the backlash of this, especially when my life is so public. I know I haven't always been entirely honest on this blog, but it's just easier to blog about the things that make me happy rather than sad. I never wanted Selective Potential to be a place where I dump my problems. I wanted it to make me happy and inspire me. Would you scrapbook the crappy fight you had with your husband or the time you got into a car accident or whatever? I don't think so. Thank you for your (already amazing) support. There are dark days ahead, but I know I'll be okay because of the people in my life. Everyone makes mistakes; everyone is human. I just need to continue to stay true to myself and follow my heart. I've lived my entire life by following my heart and sometimes it really hurts me, but it's also got me to some of the best places in my life.

As for the blog, I will never delete my past content. It's my past and it's an amazing past I will always look back on happily. I want to live a life with no regrets. Relationships end, people move on, but I'll never delete Brett from this blog or my life. I know this sounds insanely weird to some people. It's weird to me too. I always thought divorce was two people who hated each other and screamed and fought. That's just not us and it never has been. Selective Potential will move forward though. I will continue to blog about my personal style, trips I take and things that inspire me. It will continue to be a happy place for me. I will not be allowing comments on this post, but if you want to have a conversation about this, please email me. I've already told several people about the situation because they've emailed me, were genuine and asked. There are so many hurtful things people are saying, when all they are doing is speculating. But yet, none of them have reached out to me and asked. I'd love to have a conversation with any of you, just don't hide behind the anonymity of the internet and show your face. Obviously, I'm showing mine. And it's not perfect, but it's mine.

On the sidewalk

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Wed, 16 May 2012 23:34:00 +0000

Phew… I'm back after a semi-hiatus from the blog! I know I haven't been very clear on what's happening in my life currently, but I've just been waiting for the dust to settle before announcing anything. It's been a really crazy month and as much as what is happening hurts, I know it's for the best. I'm really hopeful for the future. I have no idea what it will hold, but I'm looking forward to finding out.

In the meantime, I was told to continue blogging and doing what I love as normal, so here I am. Trying my best to get dressed up everyday and enjoy life. I can honestly say these past couple of weeks have been the worst and best days of my life. Can you imagine feeling all of those emotions into just a short amount of time? It's overpowering. Like a HUGE wake-up call.

Selective Potential will stay what it is. I know it will. It will include my passion for style, traveling around the state, taking dorky trips and enjoying life as cheesy as possible. That's what I'm all about. I sometimes hate how much of my life is driven by emotion, but I also love it. It's gotten me to some of the best places I've ever known.

Outfit details:

Ruche Colorful Destiny Chiffon skirt

ModCloth Des Colores top in navy

Forever 21 belt

Urban Outfitters t-strap heels

Featured in Momentum Magazine!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:18:00 +0000

I'm so excited to have been featured in the summer issue of Momentum Magazine! Momentum Magazine is a cycling magazine that focuses on an urban lifestyle. It's a great magazine for everything you need to know about smart living by bike. I'd definitely recommend picking up a copy, plus I love that they feature style bloggers! I was thrilled to be on the glossy pages alongside Elsie of A Beautiful Mess (a huge inspiration!)

Outfit details:

Sosie top

ModCloth dress

Target tights

Loxley Mary Jane wedges c/o Ruche

You're Invited: Madewell Style Sessions

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Sun, 13 May 2012 23:00:00 +0000

I'm really excited to announce that I'll be part of the Madewell Style Session in Old Orchard Center in Skokie, IL next Thursday evening. You should come out! You'll be able to get summer style tips, enjoy lots of snacks and sips, listen to great DJ tunes and discover a secret one-night-only deal! Be sure to RSVP on Facebook. Full details:

Madewell

Old Orchard Center

Thursday, May 17th from 6-8p.m.

4999 Old Orchard Center

Skokie, IL 60077

So come out, shop, say hi! I'd LOVE to meet you.

Warning though, I'm a little shy approaching people... so please say hi!

Past summer favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Fri, 11 May 2012 19:12:00 +0000

Even though we are in the middle of my second favorite season ever, I thought I'd pull some summer outfits forward for inspiration! Unfortunately, summer is my second least favorite season to dress for. In Michigan, you're just doomed in winter and summer. Winter, you're freezing your booty off and only want to bundle up in a giant parka! In summer, you're roasting and sweaty and only want to wear a cotton dress. But I'm going to push through this summer, no matter what, and see what I can put together! I have some fun ideas and plans in the works. Enjoy some of my favorite outfits from the past two summers!

(city beach, a country road)

(guest post on what i wore, summer marsh)

(historic fish town, an old silo)

(cherry festival, on the green grass)

(sheer and lace, the white boardwalk)

♥

Closed: ONA Bags Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Wed, 09 May 2012 20:26:00 +0000

Closed Tuesday, May 15!

This week's giveaway is from ONA Bags!

They are offering one of my lucky readers their Roma camera bag insert.

The Roma let's you transform your favorite non-camera bag,

into a protective space for your gear! It won't replace your

carry-it-all bag, but it's the perfect solution for light trips

and shoots where only your camera and a lens are needed.

But it also has exterior pockets to stay organized!

To enter, you must:

1) Name your favorite item from their shop

Bonus entries!

1) Follow ONA on Twitter

2) Follow ONA on Facebook

3) Follow ONA on Pinterest

(Please leave additional comments for each)

Sorry, this giveaway is only open to U.S. readers.

Entries will be accepted until Tuesday, May 15 at 9 PM EST.

The winner of the Go Chic or Go Home giveaway is...

#33 // Deanna G.

Please email me to claim your prize!

LOFT Grand Opening Event

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Sun, 06 May 2012 20:00:00 +0000

Last Wednesday, I attended the grand opening event of LOFT in Breton Village! I met up with Kayley of Sidewalk Ready and it was so fun to shop with her, scope out new spring items, snack and drink wine! I loved all of their bright colors, stripes, bold accessories and funky prints. I picked up a black and white striped skirt and a bright orange top. I'm really excited to pair the top with some cut off jean shorts, wedges and orange lipstick this summer. Michigan... I'm ready, bring on the heat!

The weather was beautiful this day, perfect for an opening event. I loved having bare arms and no tights. It was so cute... the coordinator of the event saw Kayley and I and told the photographer to follow us because we were fashionable and cute. Haha! We kept cracking up whenever we'd see him snap our photo and never knew what type of face to make! So funny.

I'm curious, what trends are you guys excited for for summer? I'm loving the usual - fun patterns, orange/corals, stripes, floral patterns. Thing I want to try and haven't been able to successfully yet... color blocking (I'm so behind the ball!), teals/blues, more colored jeans/shorts and more sheer tops (I'm in love with sheer tops right now.) I wear them so often.

Outfit details:

Forever 21 top

All Things Pretty skirt c/o Francesca's Collections

Bonlook Simply Fabulous glasses

Closed: Go Chic or Go Home Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Wed, 02 May 2012 20:41:00 +0000

Closed Tuesday, May 8!

This week's giveaway is from Go Chic or Go Home! Go Chic or Go Home is an amazing photo-sharing community that offers everything you need to make the most of your daily wardrobe and style: your closet, inspiration, friends, and shopping.

They are offering one of my lucky readers a $50 gift card to any of the retailers they work with, including Madewell, Banana Republic, ASOS, and more!

To enter, you must:

1) Become a member of Go Chic or Go Home in 2 easy steps:

a) Request an invite and

b) Use your invite link to sign up on the website

2) Leave a comment on this post about the community. What do you think?

Note: Existing members are more than welcome to enter the giveaway too! Simply log into Go Chic or Go Home so that your account is active during the giveaway period.

This giveaway is open to U.S. and international readers.

Entries will be accepted until Tuesday, May 8th.

The winner of the Kintage giveaway is... #93 // Jessica!

Please email me to claim your prize.

Ice cream date

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 21:43:00 +0000

On Sunday, Brett and I headed back "home" to our beach town to eat lunch with his parents. It was so lovely being back for a little while! We headed down and put our feet in the sand for a few minutes, grabbed ice-cream cones on the boardwalk and headed to our favorite playground to hang out. Sometimes I get super mad at myself for moving away from a town I adore so much, but I have to remind myself… it's just a short drive away!

So um… I love this outfit and it's my favorite. As my co-worker, Anne, would say, "Bragger". Hehe! Of course, I adore mint and being all matchy-matchy. But I also love sheer tops, t-strap flats and jeans. So this outfit was a no-brainer and I'll probably wear this exact combination several more times this season!

So I was getting my oil changed today and I heard, "Are you Tieka?" and I was delighted to meet a reader! She was SO nice too and said, "You just amaze me." It totally made my day. Sometimes I feel like such a slacker (only 13 posts in April, seriously?) but people like that (and readers like you!) make me feel like I'm on top of the world. So thank you for that!

Outfit details:

ModCloth Pastel Me Your Secrets Jeans in Mint

Galloway Chiffon Top in Ivory c/o Sosie

Heart to Love Ring c/o ModCloth

ModCloth Sibling Flats in Big Sis

Voigt House

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 22:34:00 +0000

This weekend, Brett and I made a quick trip over to the Voigt House, which is really close to our new apartment. This elegant and perfectly preserved Victorian mansion was built in 1895. The house is still furnished with the original belongings of the Voigt family. I wish we could have gotten a peek inside. I'd love to hop over and tour this house soon. History, especially local, fascinates me so much.

I saw an e-blast from Madewell recently where the model was wearing double polka-dots and I loved it. So cute! So I thought I'd try my own spin on it. I just got this navy skirt from DamesMercury. It's too pretty and I'm excited to wear it in summer. It's been chilly here the past few days! We even saw a few snowflakes yesterday. Brrr. I'm ready to put away tights. I thought this necklace went perfect with this spot too. Kelly from Honey & Marrow and her husband find old vintage goods and make them into new creations. Lovely, right?

I'm really excited May is upon us this week! It's one of my favorite months, especially because it ends with Memorial Day and Memorial Day means summer is here! Brett and I keep telling each other that we're going to have a "summer". Windows down, dirty feet, constantly in a bathing suit, windblown hair. I'm excited for all of it. I have too much planned... as always! I wouldn't have it any other way.

A quick note, I'll be at the LOFT Grand Opening Event in Grand Rapids this Wednesday! They are located in Breton Village and it's from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. I'll be there with Kayley from Sidewalk Ready too. You can receive 25% off your purchase and there will be music, refreshments and treats. RSVP by April 30 to LOFTevents@skoogproductions.com. See you there!

Outfit details:

Let's Polka skirt c/o DAMESMERCURY

Forever 21 polka dot top

We Love Colors navy tights

Llave necklace c/o Honey & Marrow

BC Footwear flats

Kintage Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:50:00 +0000

Closed Tuesday, May 1!

This week's giveaway is from Kintage!

They are offering one of my lucky readers a $30 store credit.

To enter, you must:

1) Name your favorite item from their shop

Bonus entries!

1) Like them on Facebook

2) Follow them on Twitter

3) Subscribe to their blog

4) Follow them on Instagram ("kintage")

(Please leave additional comments for each)

You can also receive 10% off your order with code "TIEKA"!

Entries will be accepted until Tuesday, May 1st at 9 PM EST.

The winner of the Dusty Rose Vintage giveaway is...

#89 // Novianty Effendy

Please email me to claim your prize!

Brick walls are the new railroad tracks

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:30:00 +0000

I've been wanting to do a strictly black and white photo post for a while now. I've always been a huge fan of black and white photography. It inspired me to try and add another level of detail in my outfit that I normally would just use color for. Plus, Brett and I just went to see The Artist... so that may have something to do with this as well. (I loved that movie SO much!) But it was fun to see how this came out!

I have to fully credit Brett for the title of this post. I haven't really figured out my "default" spot yet like I used to have in our other town on the railroad tracks. Brett said to me the other day, "Brick walls are the new railroad tracks." I was like... so true! There are plenty of neat walls in the city and you never clash with a brick wall, right? Looks like I found my new go-to!

Outfit details:

Forever 21 floral dress

Forever 21 lace top

Forever 21 socks

Steve Madden Westii wedges c/o Shop It To Me

Carnival in the park

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 03:08:00 +0000

This past weekend, Brett and I headed out with a couple of friends to a local carnival in John Ball Park! This is always one of my favorite times of year because the weather is getting nicer... and it's our first carnival of the season. Unfortunately, they had zero good rides to ride! So we walked around for a bit scoping the scene. Carnivals are one of my favorite things ever about summer. We love riding dorky rides and eating junk food. Who doesn't, right?

So my life has been a bit crazy lately wearing these glasses! I know that sounds weird, but it's honestly life changing. I've worn contacts since I was 13 and there are so many things I took for granted. Like... how in the heck do girls with glasses take showers and know if they're hitting all of the spots on their legs when shaving?! Or how do you go running without them bouncing all over the place? All I can say is... I'm counting the days until I can wear my contacts again. If you're not used to wearing glasses, it's so hard to adjust! It looks like it's going to be about another month. Booooo!

My favorite carnival coming up is the old fashioned days. I can't believe I wore this outfit there two years ago already. It cracks me up how much I've changed... and how much I haven't changed. Brett and I are still totally the same people, but we're at such different places in our lives. I love how unexpected life can be. As much as I miss Grand Haven, I'm finally getting used to our place here and enjoying being in the city and so close to everything. But I am so excited for a hot summer day so I can head back to the beach and take it all in again.

Outfit details:

Target red jeans

Confetti Cake top c/o Shop Strut

ModCloth Sibling Flats in Big Sis

ModCloth Rat-a-tat hat

Heart to Love ring c/o ModCloth

Forest Floor Fashion Show

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 01:35:00 +0000

A few weeks ago (maybe a month now!), I attended a local fashion show with a few of my blogger friends! Every year, the college I attended puts on a fashion show. It's always a fun experience and an excuse to get some girls together. This year, the theme was Forest Floor. It was a bit out there, but I kept having to remind myself that artists were putting this together... not fashion designers. When you think about it that way, it was quite inspiring! But yes, definitely entertaining. I had a lot of fun with the girls!

April showers are definitely here. We've had lots of rain and thunderstorms lately - which I love. I can't wait to get outside sometime with my umbrella and snap some pictures. I've been super down lately and haven't taken pictures since last weekend. I had an eye appointment and my doctor said I can't wear my contacts for a while because my eyelids are so irritated. He said 6 months... but there is no way I'm going that long not wearing contacts! I have a follow up appointment in two weeks... crossing my fingers they are healed by then. My glasses are like coke bottles and I feel so nauseated by the time I get home from work that all I want to do is eat a giant bowl of ice-cream and go to sleep. Booo!

Thank you all so much for your support and encouragement on the Forever 21 billboard in Times Square! If you haven't heard yet, it's officially live! I'm so excited to see it in person. We're planning a quick road-trip to NYC next weekend, finally. I've been stalking the live cam and although it's a huge deal seeing it in a photo, it'll be insane seeing it in person! I even had a friend say she spotted me on the billboard when they were filming "The Insider". Crazy, right?!

I had the amazing opportunity to meet Kayley of Sidewalk Ready and Blair of Love, Blair during this evening and spend time with my two other friends, Andrea of Blonde Bedhead and Patricia of Quirky Etiquette. It was too fun to grab fancy martinis and snacks afterwards and chat with girls. With my best girlfriend living in Colorado and being in a band, I'm constantly stuck with dirty ol' boys. This was a nice change-up! ;)

Outfit details:

Forever 21 dress

Ruche belt

Style Oasis blazer c/o ModCloth

Aldo tights

Madame Bovery ring c/o ModCloth

Seychelles Hawk wedges

Closed: Dusty Rose Vintage Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 02:04:00 +0000

Closed Tuesday, April 24!

This week's giveaway is from Dusty Rose Vintage!

She is offering one of my readers a $30 store credit.

To enter, you must:

1) Name your favorite item from her shop and say why you chose it!

Bonus entries!

1) Like her on Facebook

2) Follow her on Twitter

3) Follow her on Pinterest

(please leave additional comments for each)

Yay, this giveaway is open to U.S. and international readers!

Entries will be accepted until Tuesday, April 24 at 9 PM EST.

The winner of the Gracie B. giveaway is...

#45 // Shannon!

Please email me to claim your prize!

Rosie's Diner

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 21:22:00 +0000

Once upon a time, this place used to serve up the best diner food in the state! Now permanently closed, Rosie's Diner is a spot of nostalgia of the 50's. Brett and I took a trip on US 131 north to 14 Mile Road in Rockford, Michigan to scout out the old dining cars! This diner was originally opened in Little Ferry, New Jersey, as the Silver Dollar Diner. The diner was located on U.S. Route 46 when it first opened in the 1940s!

In the 1970s and 80s, a series of commercials featured Rosie, a no-nonsense waitress who was featured in the Bounty paper towel commercials. So, the diner was renamed Rosie's and in 1991, it was brought to Rockford and soon it was serving diner food again. After closing in 2011, all that's left are the three dining cars, an amazing old-time miniature golf spot and an empty parking lot!

Red and mint is a new favorite spring color combination of mine. I can just imagine wearing this mint dress to enjoy a trip to our local diner. I love ModCloth's description of this dress... "The sweetheart neckline, ruched back, and sugar-white polka dots of this charming dress whip up a look that’s as delectable as the mint-chocolate milkshake you order." I always love how they put a story behind their clothes. It always inspires me to constantly tell a story when I wear them.

Diners have always been symbols of American optimism. I absolutely love the history that was created inside the walls of these dining cars. Plus, what's better than your typical American food of hamburgers, french fries, club sandwiches and milkshakes? So, let's play some Chuck Berry, Buddy Holly, The Beach Boys and Little Richard and visit our local diners soon, hm?

Outfit details:

ModCloth Milkshake Things Up dress

Rulla wedges c/o Blowfish Shoes

The tulip rows

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 01:21:00 +0000

Whoa, we're a month ahead of schedule in spring-land here in Michigan! Usually we visit the tulip fields in May for Tulip Time, but I heard a rumor they bloomed early... so we drove out to Holland to see the flowers! We got to Windmill Island and it was closed, so of course we snuck in to grab some photos. It was breathtakingly pretty, especially being there alone with nobody around. This is definitely one of my favorite times of the year. You can't be unhappy when you're surrounded by sunlight and tulips, right?

I found this pretty vintage dress at the thrift store a couple of weeks ago! I was so surprised to find such a high-quality dress in this little run down shop. It's in perfect condition! Brett was like, "Are you sure all of this matches?" And I'm like, "I don't care... I'm going to wear every color I'm loving right now!" Orange, mustard, mint, coral. Anything goes in a field of color right?

We came here two years ago (my first spring blogging!) and took photos here for my post, Windmill Island. Last year, I decided to mix it up a bit with my post Field of Tulips at Veldheer's Tulip Gardens. I'm going to have a whole collage of outfits in tulip fields eventually. It's a must I come here every spring!

The windmill on the island is 245 years old and is the only authentic, working Dutch windmill in the United States. Pretty awesome, right? The windmill was shipped from the Netherlands to the port of Muskegon, Michigan (my hometown!) and it was set up on this island in 1964!

Well this weekend is totally up in the air right now... we may be heading to NYC and we might not be. I'm waiting to hear back on the billboard and when it's supposed to go up... good thing we're spontaneous! All I know is that I have a ton of plans that are coming up that I'm super excited for. Playing in my band, carnivals, good bands playing in town and the thought of summer coming up. I'm planning on being on my scooter constantly and doing something crazy everyday.

Outfit details:Vintage dressBow Stopper belt c/o Le Mode AccessoriesModCloth Daylight Cravings sunglassesBC Footwear Scowl wedges

Closed: Gracie B. Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 02:48:00 +0000

Closed Tuesday, April 17!
This week's giveaway is from Gracie B. Boutique!They are offering one of my readers a $50 store credit.
To enter, you must:1) Comment with your favorite item from their shop
Bonus entries!1) Follow them on Twitter2) Like them on Facebook3) Follow them on Pinterest(Please leave additional comments for each)
This giveaway is open to U.S. and international readers.
Entries will be accepted until Tuesday, April 17 at 9 PM EST.
The winner of the Frost Yourselves giveaway is...#29 // LoriPlease email me to claim your prize!

Streets of white

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 01:42:00 +0000

Is it really April 9th already? Gosh, time goes so fast! When we first moved to Grand Rapids, I had this huge timeline to finish this apartment and I'm not even close to being done yet. We've been super busy. These photos are from weeks ago! But oh well, let me recap you on the present. This past weekend was super fun. My band played both Friday and Saturday nights and I loved hanging out with friends all weekend. Yesterday, we got to go back home for dinner at Brett's parents. We (of course) drove past Lake Michigan and it was perfect.

So, I got some crazy news last week. I've been collaborating with Forever 21 on their Contiki contest and I also found out... I'm going to be on their digital billboard in Times Square. Is that not the craziest thing you've ever heard?!! Small-town Michigan gal?! Of course, Brett and I are driving out to NYC this weekend to see it in person. How could you not, right? How often in your life are you going to be on a billboard in Times Square? But needless to say, I'm so so so grateful for the opportunity... and it wouldn't be possible if you guys didn't support me constantly. It means more than you know.

Other than that, not much else is new! I've just been staying busy at work, trying to get as much done in the apartment as possible, playing a lot of shows in my band and trying to squeeze in time for friends! It's a huge goal of mine to get as much as we can done here before we take on another huge endeavor in early summer. If you follow my Pinterest, you might have a clue!

Outfit details:

Megan Nielsen Rie dress

Target tights

Thrifted belt

Fine Furnishings wedge c/o ModCloth

Spring Featured Blogger

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 13:00:00 +0000

For my spring featured blogger, I chose one of my favorite local bloggers, Kayley of Sidewalk Ready. I've been quietly stalking, ahem, reading Kayley's blog for the past few months and finally had the pleasure of meeting her a couple of weeks ago. She is just as sweet and stylish in real life as she is on her blog. I definitely see us becoming great friends and it's just icing on the cake that we're both Grand Rapids fashion bloggers! I know you'll love her as much as I do already. Here are some questions to get to know her a bit better!

1. When and why did you start a personal style blog?

Sidewalk Ready had it's first blog post on September 30, 2010. When I jumped into the world of style blogging, I really had no idea there was such a large community! A friend of mine suggested the idea to me and I thought it sounded like fun. I've always loved blogging and thought talking about fashion would be really inspiring for myself and others. That night, I updated my Facebook status to "I'm thinking about starting a fashion blog but am not sure if anyone will read it." Fourteen people liked that status and I thought that was a pretty good readership! ;)

2. What's your favorite thing about living in Michigan?

The seasons! I used to hate winter but it's really grown on me. It's so refreshing to have a new atmosphere every three months, especially when it comes to fashion. We are able to bundle up AND wear sundresses (sometimes in the same week - ha!). Aside from the seasons, I love our proximity to bigger cities like Chicago, and scenic towns like Traverse City. There is so much to do just a drive away!

3. Tell us a bit about Kai and how you met.

He's the greatest! He is very tall, has a great smile, and friendly eyes. He is a great listener, a hard worker, and loves me and our pets. I couldn't be more spoiled! I first noticed Kai when I was a freshman in high school and he was a senior. After crushing on him from afar for four years, I finally added him as friend on Facebook. Our mutual interest in photography is what got us talking, and a week or so later, we hung out for the first time in a group with other friends. I was SO nervous and hardly talked to him the whole night! I was certain I ruined any chance I had with him, but he asked me out on a date at the end of the night. After lunch at Qdoba where we talked about our lives, families, interests, and love for tomatoes, we were hooked! Eleven months later we were engaged, and ten months after that, we were married. That was four and a half years ago!

4. Tell us a bit about your day job(s)!

I am a hair stylist at a local salon called A.J. Pinder & Co, a very part time employee at the Gap, and Kai and I own our photography business, Kai Heeringa Photography. I have always loved dabbling in many areas and I feel like all of these jobs really encompass many of my interests, and keep me plenty busy!

5. Describe your style in three words.

Classic, polished, and feminine. I love feeling like a lady!

6. What are some of your favorite blogs?

There are certain blogs that I read every single time they are in my reader. Aside from Selective Potential ;), I always make sure to read Kendi Everyday, Wendy's Lookbook, M Loves M, See Jane, Atlantic-Pacific, and 9to5 Chic ... I hope I didn't miss anyone!

7. What's your favorite thing to do?

I'm a big TV watcher. As much as I wish I wasn't, the truth is that DVR has kind of taken over my free time. I stay so busy with all of my jobs so I really like to just check out when I have the chance to sit down. I'm currently recording "Friends" and catching up on Chandler, Ross, Joey, Rachel, Monica, and Phoebe one episode at a time! Oh, and I like shopping, duh. ;)

8. Future dream goals?

I started my blog without any aspirations. I'm astounded that I'm even where I am right now. I really like to take things one day at a time, and have no expectations!

9. What are some of your favorite musicians/bands?

Kai likes to call my taste in music "Pretty Music". I really love anything that is soothing and easy to listen to. My current favorite artist is Gregory Alan Isakov. I also can't get enough of Ray LaMontagne, Iron & Wine and Bon Iver.

10. Any tips for new bloggers starting out?

Stay motivated! It's really hard in the beginning because blogs never start with a large audience. Stick with it and constantly try to find ways to improve your blog. I think having quality pictures, writing with a voice, and having great style definitely help!

I hope you all enjoyed getting to know Kayley a little bit more. Be sure to head over to her blog and follow along! You can also keep up with her on Twitter and Facebook. And... if you enjoyed reading this feature, be sure to check out my other featured bloggers!

Ron's Auto

noreply@blogger.com (Tieka, Selective Potential) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 03:09:00 +0000

Haha! Never on Selective Potential would I thought I'd have a post titled, "Ron's Auto". As much as I plan my posts out, sometimes Brett and I just run out and find the closest spot to snap some pictures. Today, you get Ron's. We were laughing because I didn't at all plan that my top would match this wall. It's just second nature to match my surroundings now, I guess!

Holy moly, it has taken me a million hours to get this far in this post. I'm not a fan of new Blogger! Ew, ew, ew. I've put it off and now it's being forced upon me. I'm such a creature of habit and have a hard time with change. As most of you know (who follow me on Twitter) I'm having a little bit of a hard time adjusting to living here! I miss our small town and keep reliving the memories we've had there in my head over and over. I know life is great here and will get better, but I'm still adjusting and it's tough!

Other than that though, life is pretty peachy. Get it, peachy? Anyway, it's April! How exciting. That means snow (knocks on wood) is behind us and we're moving onto April showers and... summer (since we've already gotten our May flowers)! Plans for April... hmm... lots of Circle Maybe shows, Easter, my Dad's birthday, hopefully lots of use of my new umbrella and beating Earthbound (A Super Nintendo game from 1994 that I beat every spring, it's tradition, it's my favorite video game ever.)

It's a little funny how I run a style blog and never really talk about my outfits. This outfit kind of embodies everything I like right now. Top knots, ankle jeans, sheer tops, bandeaus, big glasses, floral wedges and giant rings. Hyup! I love spring style!

Outfit details:

Forever 21 top

Gap jeans

Francesca's Collections lace bandeau

Forever 21 ring

Urban Outfitters glasses

Fine furnishings wedge c/o ModCloth