Happy Monday, everyone! Hope you all had a great weekend. My best friend Morgan was in town so we had a blast catching up and going out in Miami Beach. It was so humid, though! I thought I would be okay getting used to this heat again but I am struggling hardcore. I’m going to NYC next week though (hopefully!) so I’m excited to wear fall clothes without feeling like I’m dying of a heat stroke.
I wanted to share this outfit that has quickly become one of my favorite combos! You know how I am with blush, so when I got these Sam Edelman heels, I was so excited. The heels are block heels so they are comfy to walk in and super flattering, too. They come in a bunch of colors but I couldn’t resist pink! I added a pop of leopard with this thin belt that I recently picked up at Nordstrom. I’m shocked that I didn’t already own a leopard belt and now that I do, I’m so happy! It instantly adds life to any basic outfit, which is something I always like to do. Whenever I don’t really know how to make an outfit stand out, I add a pop of leopard or color with either my shoes or accessories.
This cardigan is a super cozy, oversized cardigan and I love the tortoise details on the buttons! I would size down, though, because it does run big! I’m wearing a small but wish that I would have gotten an extra small instead. It is really comfortable, though! I’m really picky with sweaters being itchy and this one is not at all. This specific Topshop tank is old from last season but I am absolutely loving this one. It comes in so many colors so I might pick one up and let you guys know how I like it!
Anyways, moving on from the outfit. I wanted to share something a bit more on the personal side with you guys, since this is something that I’ve been silently struggling with for about two years now. When I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia a few years back, my doctor told me that there would be a chance that I would gain weight. Being that I was always skinny, I didn’t really think this would ever happen to me. Fast forward 2 years and I’ve gained about 30 pounds and feel the worst I’ve ever felt when it comes to how I look. Sometimes, I even dread taking blog photos because I know I’ll look at the photos with embarrassment at how I look. I never thought that I would be one of those people who would gain weight or feel uncomfortable in her own skin, but yep. That’s me. I’m sharing this with you guys just because today I’m promising myself to make the best of it. I’m going to start going to the gym regularly, I’m going to eat much healthier and I’m going to take care of myself. I know that it’s a lot of weight to lose but I’m confident that I can do it if I dedicate myself to it and have you guys on my side pushing me to go to the gym and eat healthy! Having fibromyalgia has definitely not been easy, especially considering that my whole system is out of wack, my levels are not normal and I have this insane hunger now because of my levels being abnormal that all I ever want to do is eat. I’m also always tired and it’s exhausting (lol).
I know that this is just a minor setback and I will look like I did 2-3 years ago again. I’m even looking at these photos from this blog post and am just wondering how I let myself get to this. Like, why? But it’s fine. When life hands you lemons, you make lemonade… right?! I might share this journey with you guys just because I want to be able to help anyone who maybe has gained weight for any other reasons or maybe someone who also suffers from fibromyalgia. It’s not going to be easy and I’m going to want to give up because I do not like the gym, but I’m going to do it. If I find any fun healthy recipes, I’ll share them with you guys! And, every Monday, I will hold myself accountable by updating you guys on how everything is going. Thank you guys for always being the best followers and friends. So much love for each and every one of you!
Have an amazing Monday!
“I’m not losing weight, I’m getting rid of it. I have no intention of finding it again.” – wanted to share that since it made me laugh! xx! 
Photos by Ali Mac Photography
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If you want a buddy to help keep you accountable, and vice versa, sign me up!! This year has been full of so many blessings, but it’s been my most difficult in terms of staying on track with my diet and exercise regimen. I actually told myself this morning that I’m getting back on track TODAY. No excuses. It’s a priority. So you’re not alone, girly. We can and will do this. <3
Lauren – First of all, I love your outfit! Also, thank you for sharing such personal things about you. As someone who treats fibromyalgia regularly (I am a rheumatologist) I do know exactly what you are going through. The struggle is definitely real. Understanding the cause is the first step to getting better <3
Lauren, I love your style and really enjoy your posts. You look fabulous! But I understand the struggle you’re going through. Although I don’t suffer from fibromyalgia, I did struggle with weight, so I know how you’re feeling. I was able to lose 75 lbs with just eating healthier (tracking calories on MyFitnessPal) and running. I’m not a fan of the gym, either. 😉 It’s possible to get to that place you want to be – it’ll just take some time and determination!
Lauren, you are beautiful my friend but I love that you are sharing your struggles! I think this is a great way to keep yourself accountable and I’ll be here rooting for ya! On a lighter note I adore this look, yaaaassss for leopard print!!!
I love your gorgeous outfit!! And Keep your head up, girl. You are beautiful and I know you will get back to feeling like yourself again!
I think you are beautiful no matter what! Thank you for sharing your struggle and your journey with us.
Megan | http://www.pipmegan.com
love this look babe!! just stay motivated and you will get back on track! I know what it’s like to not feel like yourself, but you’ll get there <3
xo megan
I have recently gained a lot of weight too and absolutely hate it. I also am wondering how I ever got to this point. My hardest part is self control with food, so please share any tips or recipes you find! We can do this!!
Love this outfit! Thanks for sharing your personal story – fibromyalgia can be a challenging disease.
Your outfit is first of all super gorgeous! I love the fun statement belt! So cute! Secondly, while I’m sure it’s been a struggle for you being a different weight then you once were, I want you to know that you are still beyond beautiful and no one will ever think less of you for it fluctuating due to your illness. I have a chronic disease as well, and it can be challenging to maintain weight, but whether it’s gaining or losing, it’ll be okay as long as we do our best to take care of our bodies! 🙂
Sorry you’ve been struggling in your body. I relate but I work on trying to be balanced and healthy without focusing on a number on the scale. You’re still worthy as you are.
Your honesty is so refreshing! I think when our life is to see ourselves reflected in pictures and fashion, it is so easy to be critical. I think you look amazing and honestly it’s all about health and how you feel. Try to get those workouts in and fuel your body with good foods. That will keep you feeling the best! <3 <3
You’re beautiful, hun! Glad to hear you’re committed to your health, but don’t worry about the numbers.
Love this! And thank you for being so honest! It is so refreshing!
Jordan: Teacup of Style
Instagram @teacupofstyle