We decided to get out of town and head west for my Birthday. This trip was one of the best trips we've ever taken and one of the best birthdays I've ever had. In true Bravenec style, we did not plan ahead, however we managed to see just about everything West Texas had to offer.
MARFA
Where We Stayed
We stayed in at El Cosmico in a Airstream trailer, it was incredible. The trailer had a kitchen, bedroom with a full size bed, indoor bathroom and an attached outdoor shower. Plenty of space to lounge and store your belongings. Although, I would suggest you bring an iron or steamer and a hairdryer. Additionally, it was really hot during the day, but cooled off quiet a bit at night. If you're wondering, I packed layers and a light jacket! The hotel has a main lobby where you can buy beer and a few snacks, however if you want to save some money I would suggest going to the local grocery store for drinks and such. The campsite was quiet and peaceful our entire trip and there were white tailed bunnies that roam around the campsite, it's beyond adorable.
I would highly recommend visiting the the Marfa Lights observatory, the pool at the Hotel St. George and driving out to see the Prada Exhibit.
I loved every bit of our stay in Marfa.
Where We Ate
Marfa Burrito, best breakfast burrito hands down.
Jetts Grill at the Hotel Paisano
Food Shark, get the Marfalafel!
For my birthday we had drinks and dinner at La Ventura located inside Hotel St. George. The NY Strip is massive. Trust me, you don't need an appetizer! The drinks were fun and the staff was wonderful.
ALPINE
We visited Big Bend Brewery. We shared a few beers and enjoyed a beer tasting. I really enjoyed the Tejas Clara lager! You can check out the brewery here: http://www.bigbendbrewing.com
Next stop, Plaine Ice Cream + Coffee. Get the nitro brewed coffee, sounds extreme but it was amazing. I've actually craved it ever since!
There's not many restaurant options in Alpine, but El Patio had delicious enchiladas and speedy service!
BALMORHEA STATE PARK
Be prepared, the water was cold, but refreshing and there was an abundance of pupfish. The pupfish are harmless and kind of cute! The park has a concession stand and a place to change into your swimsuit!
BIG BEND
If you're wanting to camp in the Chisos Basin, you'll need to reserve your campsite at least 6 months in advance. The high demand for this campsite is understandable as the the basin is beautiful.
We decided to hike the Lost Mind Trail. It took us 4 hours to hike the entire trail, about two hours up and two hours down. I would suggest starting early in the morning; wear LOTS of sunblock, a hat, hiking boots and drink lots of water.
Bravenec surprised me with a three hour horseback ride at Big Bend Stables. I rode a horse named Luna, She was the sweetest horse. Bravenec rode Sleepy-Joe, the most laid-back horse to ever exist. I loved every second of our three hour ride and I will never forget this experience. The view from the trail was so pretty and we got to experience a completely different side of the park.
TERLINGUA &
LAJITAS
There's not much to do in Terlingua, but you have to have a beer on the porch at the Starlight Theater. We stayed at Lajutas golf resort http://www.lajitasgolfresort.com. The resort itself was really pretty and the golf course looked immaculate. If we had stayed a second night I know Bravenec would have played a round.
OUTFIT DETAILS
| Free People Halo Pullover https://goo.gl/croVMf | | Moon River Linen Tank https://goo.gl/8fxeG2 |
| Free People Halo Pullover https://goo.gl/croVMf | | Moon River Linen Tank https://goo.gl/8fxeG2 |
| Caslon Linen Shirt Dress
(Blue Hydrangea stripe) https://goo.gl/3Z3AYf | Caslon Hat https://goo.gl/6clhkx |
| Gingham Off- ShoulderTop https://goo.gl/3UoZ2p | My favorite pair of black
denim https://goo.gl/q3ptlN |
| Aerie Chill Hi-Neck
Sports Bra https://goo.gl/NPliHQ | Sunglasses https://goo.gl/BUuynC |
| LEVIS 701 Cut-off shorts https://goo.gl/dYQ1Tc |
| LEVIS 701 Cut-off shorts https://goo.gl/dYQ1Tc |
West Texas
Monday, June 5, 2017
We decided to get out of town and head west for my Birthday. This trip was one of the best trips we've ever taken and one of the best birthdays I've ever had. In true Bravenec style, we did not plan ahead, however we managed to see just about everything West Texas had to offer.
MARFA
Where We Stayed
We stayed in at El Cosmico in a Airstream trailer, it was incredible. The trailer had a kitchen, bedroom with a full size bed, indoor bathroom and an attached outdoor shower. Plenty of space to lounge and store your belongings. Although, I would suggest you bring an iron or steamer and a hairdryer. Additionally, it was really hot during the day, but cooled off quiet a bit at night. If you're wondering, I packed layers and a light jacket! The hotel has a main lobby where you can buy beer and a few snacks, however if you want to save some money I would suggest going to the local grocery store for drinks and such. The campsite was quiet and peaceful our entire trip and there were white tailed bunnies that roam around the campsite, it's beyond adorable.
I would highly recommend visiting the the Marfa Lights observatory, the pool at the Hotel St. George and driving out to see the Prada Exhibit.
I loved every bit of our stay in Marfa.
Where We Ate
Marfa Burrito, best breakfast burrito hands down.
Jetts Grill at the Hotel Paisano
Food Shark, get the Marfalafel!
For my birthday we had drinks and dinner at La Ventura located inside Hotel St. George. The NY Strip is massive. Trust me, you don't need an appetizer! The drinks were fun and the staff was wonderful.
ALPINE
We visited Big Bend Brewery. We shared a few beers and enjoyed a beer tasting. I really enjoyed the Tejas Clara lager! You can check out the brewery here: http://www.bigbendbrewing.com
Next stop, Plaine Ice Cream + Coffee. Get the nitro brewed coffee, sounds extreme but it was amazing. I've actually craved it ever since!
There's not many restaurant options in Alpine, but El Patio had delicious enchiladas and speedy service!
BALMORHEA STATE PARK
Be prepared, the water was cold, but refreshing and there was an abundance of pupfish. The pupfish are harmless and kind of cute! The park has a concession stand and a place to change into your swimsuit!
BIG BEND
If you're wanting to camp in the Chisos Basin, you'll need to reserve your campsite at least 6 months in advance. The high demand for this campsite is understandable as the the basin is beautiful.
We decided to hike the Lost Mind Trail. It took us 4 hours to hike the entire trail, about two hours up and two hours down. I would suggest starting early in the morning; wear LOTS of sunblock, a hat, hiking boots and drink lots of water.
Bravenec surprised me with a three hour horseback ride at Big Bend Stables. I rode a horse named Luna, She was the sweetest horse. Bravenec rode Sleepy-Joe, the most laid-back horse to ever exist. I loved every second of our three hour ride and I will never forget this experience. The view from the trail was so pretty and we got to experience a completely different side of the park.
TERLINGUA &
LAJITAS
There's not much to do in Terlingua, but you have to have a beer on the porch at the Starlight Theater. We stayed at Lajutas golf resort http://www.lajitasgolfresort.com. The resort itself was really pretty and the golf course looked immaculate. If we had stayed a second night I know Bravenec would have played a round.
OUTFIT DETAILS
| Free People Halo Pullover https://goo.gl/croVMf | | Moon River Linen Tank https://goo.gl/8fxeG2 |
| Free People Halo Pullover https://goo.gl/croVMf | | Moon River Linen Tank https://goo.gl/8fxeG2 |
| Caslon Linen Shirt Dress
(Blue Hydrangea stripe) https://goo.gl/3Z3AYf | Caslon Hat https://goo.gl/6clhkx |
| Gingham Off- ShoulderTop https://goo.gl/3UoZ2p | My favorite pair of black
denim https://goo.gl/q3ptlN |
| Aerie Chill Hi-Neck
Sports Bra https://goo.gl/NPliHQ | Sunglasses https://goo.gl/BUuynC |
| LEVIS 701 Cut-off shorts https://goo.gl/dYQ1Tc |
| LEVIS 701 Cut-off shorts https://goo.gl/dYQ1Tc |
Happy Monday Friends!
I hope you are all well and ready to take on this week.
I'm excited to bring my very first video tutorial to the blog today! I was such a nervous mess recording this, but a hair tutorial for my everyday waves is the number one request I get on snapchat! I hope that this video is helpful for all my girls trying to achieve a lived-in wave hairstyle. I love how effortless, yet versatile this hair style is. I leave it down day one, day two it's usually up in a half-up-half-down top knot and day three I usually incorporate some type of side braid!
As always, please leave any comments or questions down below!
Big Hugs,
-C
Everyday Lived-In Waves Tutorial
Monday, January 9, 2017
Happy Monday Friends!
I hope you are all well and ready to take on this week.
I'm excited to bring my very first video tutorial to the blog today! I was such a nervous mess recording this, but a hair tutorial for my everyday waves is the number one request I get on snapchat! I hope that this video is helpful for all my girls trying to achieve a lived-in wave hairstyle. I love how effortless, yet versatile this hair style is. I leave it down day one, day two it's usually up in a half-up-half-down top knot and day three I usually incorporate some type of side braid!
As always, please leave any comments or questions down below!
Big Hugs,
-C
| Slide on Mules: TTS |
I accomplished so many goals in 2016. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Texas State University with my Bachelors in Public Relations, I welcomed a new niece and saw my name in television credits.
I have learned that sometimes I just have to have faith and trust in a greater power than myself. Faith has lead me to better friendships, higher goals and more love than I could imagine.
Most importantly, I continue to try to be the best wife and friend to Bravenec, because he is the greatest person I know.
Undoubtedly, 2016 has been amazing. However, I'm looking forward to the new year and the opportunities it holds.
I have a lot of goals and aspirations for this little blog in the new year and I can't wait to share all of my ideas with all of you.
Cheers to 2017!
Happy New Year and, as always,
big hugs!
-C
Happy New Year
Saturday, December 31, 2016
| Slide on Mules: TTS |
I accomplished so many goals in 2016. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Texas State University with my Bachelors in Public Relations, I welcomed a new niece and saw my name in television credits.
I have learned that sometimes I just have to have faith and trust in a greater power than myself. Faith has lead me to better friendships, higher goals and more love than I could imagine.
Most importantly, I continue to try to be the best wife and friend to Bravenec, because he is the greatest person I know.
Undoubtedly, 2016 has been amazing. However, I'm looking forward to the new year and the opportunities it holds.
I have a lot of goals and aspirations for this little blog in the new year and I can't wait to share all of my ideas with all of you.
Cheers to 2017!
Happy New Year and, as always,
big hugs!
-C
| My exact sleeveless tunic: here I'm wearing a size small | Obsessed with this option ($55) | | This tunic has a cute Split back detail ($59) |
| J.Crew option & comes in 3 colors ($39) | | My loafers + 4 colors options ($25) |
| my exact Clare V. handbag | Leopard clutch + crossbody option ($40) |
I am so excited to share this gem of a tunic with y'all! It makes transitioning your wardrobe for fall and winter so easy. First, it's long enough to wear with leggings or jeans. Second, it can be easily layered for colder months and looks great under a cardigan or jacket. Lastly, I found so many color options for this tunic and price point options too!
Did you notice that I styled two different shoe options for this post?
I know that I personally love to wear these mules with everything, but some of you may not. I wanted to style a more comfortable, casual shoe for my girls who aren't into heels. Not to mention, I have been wearing these loafers non-stop. I'm not kidding, non-stop. Loafers are going to be a big trend this season and I couldn't be more excited about it! I love the way they make any outfit feel a little more cozy while still looking put together. If you follow me on Snapchat (carolanna_b), you know I'm loafer obsessed. I have a couple pairs from Steve Madden that I love, you can find them here.
Use code SMFREE50 for free shipping on orders over $50!
I think that's all I have for today, but I hope your week is off to a great start!
Big Hugs
-CB
I think that's all I have for today, but I hope your week is off to a great start!
Big Hugs
-CB
Fall Staple: Sleeveless Tunic
Tuesday, September 27, 2016
| My exact sleeveless tunic: here I'm wearing a size small | Obsessed with this option ($55) | | This tunic has a cute Split back detail ($59) |
| J.Crew option & comes in 3 colors ($39) | | My loafers + 4 colors options ($25) |
| my exact Clare V. handbag | Leopard clutch + crossbody option ($40) |
I am so excited to share this gem of a tunic with y'all! It makes transitioning your wardrobe for fall and winter so easy. First, it's long enough to wear with leggings or jeans. Second, it can be easily layered for colder months and looks great under a cardigan or jacket. Lastly, I found so many color options for this tunic and price point options too!
Did you notice that I styled two different shoe options for this post?
I know that I personally love to wear these mules with everything, but some of you may not. I wanted to style a more comfortable, casual shoe for my girls who aren't into heels. Not to mention, I have been wearing these loafers non-stop. I'm not kidding, non-stop. Loafers are going to be a big trend this season and I couldn't be more excited about it! I love the way they make any outfit feel a little more cozy while still looking put together. If you follow me on Snapchat (carolanna_b), you know I'm loafer obsessed. I have a couple pairs from Steve Madden that I love, you can find them here.
Use code SMFREE50 for free shipping on orders over $50!
I think that's all I have for today, but I hope your week is off to a great start!
Big Hugs
-CB
I think that's all I have for today, but I hope your week is off to a great start!
Big Hugs
-CB
| sweater I'm wearing a size M | similar pull-over sweater here | leopard print cardigan | denim | similar saddle bag crossbody | my mule booties | I also just ordered these in canela brown suede |
| nail polish | | I'm wearing this lip plump in "nude in town"|
If you haven't noticed from my last couple of blog posts, I'm well into transitioning my closet for fall. I've been sorting through all of my last season cardigans, jackets and sweaters and adding new pieces as I go. One of my biggest tips when getting ready for a new season is to sort through all the items you have from last year. I will sit down and go through it all and decide what I love and what I can loose. Sorting through my closet also helps me decide between the trendy pieces I want and what I actually need.
Another thing I do when sorting through my closet is add notes on my phone. For example, the other day I was getting ready and I noticed all of my solid black tank tops are getting really thin and starting to look tattered. I don't know about y'all, but when I'm shopping the last thing I consider purchasing is basic essentials. However, If I look at my notes and have a reminder- I'm usually pretty good about purchasing the essential items I really need.
The last tid-bid of advice I have to offer is in regards to color scheme. In my opinion, fall has one of the most flattering color schemes to work with. You can easily transition your entire wardrobe by adding a couple of fall-colored items to your closet. For example, throw in a camel-colored or cream cardigan, cognac booties, and a good pair of dark denim and you're good to go. Don't think to much into it, because really the season will be gone before you know it.
Some of my favorite fall colors are deep olive tones, berry tones, creams, and camel.
(also, leopard print anything...because my name is Carolanna and I have a problem)
Well, I'm off to Pinterest my life away & hopefully figure out how to decorate my teeny-tiny front porch for fall. #pumpkineverything #helpmepinterest #smallhouseproblems
Here's to another season!
-CB
Transitioning Your Closet for Fall
Monday, September 19, 2016
| sweater I'm wearing a size M | similar pull-over sweater here | leopard print cardigan | denim | similar saddle bag crossbody | my mule booties | I also just ordered these in canela brown suede |
| nail polish | | I'm wearing this lip plump in "nude in town"|
If you haven't noticed from my last couple of blog posts, I'm well into transitioning my closet for fall. I've been sorting through all of my last season cardigans, jackets and sweaters and adding new pieces as I go. One of my biggest tips when getting ready for a new season is to sort through all the items you have from last year. I will sit down and go through it all and decide what I love and what I can loose. Sorting through my closet also helps me decide between the trendy pieces I want and what I actually need.
Another thing I do when sorting through my closet is add notes on my phone. For example, the other day I was getting ready and I noticed all of my solid black tank tops are getting really thin and starting to look tattered. I don't know about y'all, but when I'm shopping the last thing I consider purchasing is basic essentials. However, If I look at my notes and have a reminder- I'm usually pretty good about purchasing the essential items I really need.
The last tid-bid of advice I have to offer is in regards to color scheme. In my opinion, fall has one of the most flattering color schemes to work with. You can easily transition your entire wardrobe by adding a couple of fall-colored items to your closet. For example, throw in a camel-colored or cream cardigan, cognac booties, and a good pair of dark denim and you're good to go. Don't think to much into it, because really the season will be gone before you know it.
Some of my favorite fall colors are deep olive tones, berry tones, creams, and camel.
(also, leopard print anything...because my name is Carolanna and I have a problem)
Well, I'm off to Pinterest my life away & hopefully figure out how to decorate my teeny-tiny front porch for fall. #pumpkineverything #helpmepinterest #smallhouseproblems
Here's to another season!
-CB
I am obsessed with the long-cardigan trend. They are so comfy and flattering! I specifically love how they make almost anyone seem taller! I'm average height, (5'5) but wearing this cardigan makes me feel much taller. I strategically purchased this cardigan in a color that matches almost everything, so I could get away with wearing it over and over! I can wear this with black jeans and a grey tee or over a structured patterned blouse. Honestly, the styling options are endless.
Also, I must admit- these may be the best booties I've ever purchased.
(They are technically mules, but whatever.) Again, the color works with everything and the chunky heel makes these bad boy so comfortable. I wonder if I can convince Bravenec that I also need these in grey...? haha!
My life is about to get pretty hectic, but I'm excited for what's ahead.
Speak of,
I'm also in my last semester of school.
I actually just applied for graduation, and I couldn't be anymore excited!
I hope your week is off to a great start.
-CB
Long-Line Cardigan
Tuesday, September 6, 2016
I am obsessed with the long-cardigan trend. They are so comfy and flattering! I specifically love how they make almost anyone seem taller! I'm average height, (5'5) but wearing this cardigan makes me feel much taller. I strategically purchased this cardigan in a color that matches almost everything, so I could get away with wearing it over and over! I can wear this with black jeans and a grey tee or over a structured patterned blouse. Honestly, the styling options are endless.
Also, I must admit- these may be the best booties I've ever purchased.
(They are technically mules, but whatever.) Again, the color works with everything and the chunky heel makes these bad boy so comfortable. I wonder if I can convince Bravenec that I also need these in grey...? haha!
My life is about to get pretty hectic, but I'm excited for what's ahead.
Speak of,
I'm also in my last semester of school.
I actually just applied for graduation, and I couldn't be anymore excited!
I hope your week is off to a great start.
-CB
I am so excited for fall!
I do not care how #basic I sound, it's true. In Tejas we get about 3.5 weeks of fall and I live for those weeks. I love layering fall colors and pieces, big floppy hats and booties. However, I must admit, I don't like pumpkin spice anything.
*gasp*
I don't like pumpkin scents and pumpkin pie isn't my absolute favorite.
Don't get it twisted, I do eat pumpkin pie... it's just not my favorite.
I ordered this jacket a month or so ago during the Nordstrom sale and I'm totally in love with it. This jacket is one of those pieces every girl needs in their closet. The color is versatile and it can be layered over almost anything. I can imagine pairing it with a little black dress or with a simple tee, leggings, and running shoes.
I was a little nervous ordering, as many reviews said this jacket runs super small. I would agree that it runs small, but I like the smaller tailored fit. I love the simple feminine detailing on this jacket and the material is super soft! This jacket is perfect, as I don't typically like moto-jackets with the big chunky belts sewed in around the waistline. They are too masculine and never work for me.
For a size reference, I'm wearing a small.
I wanted the jacket to be the star of this post, but of course I linked everything above!
What are some of your favorite fall pieces?
-CB
Fall Faux Leather
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
I am so excited for fall!
I do not care how #basic I sound, it's true. In Tejas we get about 3.5 weeks of fall and I live for those weeks. I love layering fall colors and pieces, big floppy hats and booties. However, I must admit, I don't like pumpkin spice anything.
*gasp*
I don't like pumpkin scents and pumpkin pie isn't my absolute favorite.
Don't get it twisted, I do eat pumpkin pie... it's just not my favorite.
I ordered this jacket a month or so ago during the Nordstrom sale and I'm totally in love with it. This jacket is one of those pieces every girl needs in their closet. The color is versatile and it can be layered over almost anything. I can imagine pairing it with a little black dress or with a simple tee, leggings, and running shoes.
I was a little nervous ordering, as many reviews said this jacket runs super small. I would agree that it runs small, but I like the smaller tailored fit. I love the simple feminine detailing on this jacket and the material is super soft! This jacket is perfect, as I don't typically like moto-jackets with the big chunky belts sewed in around the waistline. They are too masculine and never work for me.
For a size reference, I'm wearing a small.
I wanted the jacket to be the star of this post, but of course I linked everything above!
What are some of your favorite fall pieces?
-CB
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