Hey y’all! I might still be covered in bruises, but I did it - I survived my first snowboarding trip! My husband, Kollin, has gone on an annual boys snowboarding trip every year since college with his best friends and this year because of COVID it got pushed back. It ended up landing on his golden birthday (that means you’re turning the age of your birth day date - ex: 28 on the 28th) and rather than spend his golden birthday apart, he invited me on the trip!

I tried skiing when I was 14 and was NOT a fan so I kind of avoided it ever since, but when Kollin went to Colorado for college I knew I would probably need to pick it up at some point. While living in Chicago there wasn’t really anywhere nearby that was worth the trip so Kollin would do his solo boy’s trip each year and I didn’t think I needed to learn. When we moved to Nashville we were closer to some places that were basic mountains (ok, more like hills) and I tried snowboarding this time after Kollin showed me some pointers in the living room lol. We made a trip to Perfect North in Indiana and y’all, I didn’t hate it! I had some hard falls, but overall got the hang of it pretty quickly. As a practice run for the Squaw Valley. CA trip, I’m so glad we went because the mountains out west are no joke. To be totally honest, I was pretty scared that first day. Since the weather can change pretty quickly I wanted to be prepared with different options. I decided to go with a onesie style for my outer layer for ease and budget. Skiing and snowboarding clothes are pretty expensive and I didn’t want to spend too much without knowing that I was going to continue with the sport. Here’s what I packed for snowboarding:

SNOWSUIT

When Kollin wanted me to come on the trip I was immediately shopping for outfits because duh, I’m me, but I didn’t realize that snow clothing were so expensive! Everything I loved was $500+ and finding things on a budget was tough. I wanted it to be cute, but also functional, which funny enough didn’t really go hand in hand. Enter ASOS. I found some great options for lower budgets.

I wore this one on our trip and while there is a guy in the picture, I would say it is unisex. It is meant to fit tightly like a onesie so be sure to pay attention to the sizing. I ordered the XS small size and am 5’6 and 118 lbs for reference. I’d say it fit pretty true to size and was still loose enough to be comfortable. Now, let’s get into the most important part: the base layers.

BASE LAYERS

Since we were snowboarding in pretty mild temperatures we got lucky with nice weather and not needing anything for frigid temperatures. However, in order to stay warm throughout the day, layers are really important. One of the first things Kollin said I needed was base layers. Thankfully, from living in sub-zero temperatures in Chicago for 5 years I had some options in that department. I went with this set from Under Armour and love them. Here’s the order I went with:

• Sports Bra

• Under Armour shirt (x2 if really cold)

• Under Armour Leggings

• Thick black leggings (I wore my Fabletics pair, but anything thick will work)

• Snowsuit

This is just my personal preference and allows for layer changes if you get too warm. All of this fit nicely inside the snowsuit without feeling too bulky. But, if you prefer a jacket and pants you’ll definitely have more room for layers. For example, Kollin likes to wear a pair of sweatpants over his Under Armour rather than two pairs of leggings. You could also do a thermal or long sleeve shirt in place of the UA shirts.

ACCESSORIES

Now that I had the important parts of the outfit down, I was ready for accessories. I rented my actual gear so I didn’t need a helmet, boots, or a board, but most of these items I recommend going ahead and getting prior to your trip. First up, goggles. This is a personal choice based on what type of look you want, but also keep in mind the weather. You want to make sure you get goggles that can work in most types of weather like sunny days, cloudy, actively snowing, etc. Visibility can be an issue, but rather than spending a ton for my first trip I went with these from Amazon. They had amazing reviews and are a 1/5 of the price of the Smith ones I had my eyes on. The goggles held up great (spoiler alert: we went on another trip and they were great again!).

Next up on the list are the neck gaiters/face coverings. Everywhere we went requires a mask even while on the mountain so having a face covering that is the dual purpose of warmth and safety from Covid was great. These are great for that. I went with just plain black, but you can get these in a ton of colors and patterns depending on the look you’re going for. Highly recommend getting two or more because these will get a bit wet from breathing in them and wearing them all day. We snowboarded two days so I just swapped for the other one on the second day and washed the first.

Gloves are another really important aspect of your snow gear. As a beginner, I was falling and sitting down quite a bit for breaks so having really good gloves that are waterproof and warm are a must. Kollin has been snowboarding since he was a kid and prefers to snowboard pretty low to the ground and use his hands to glide quite a bit so no matter your skill level having durable gloves is important. First question: do you prefer gloves or mittens? Kollin prefers mittens and I prefer gloves so it really is a personal preference. No matter what you choose, I suggest a thinner glove layer underneath for when you need to use your hands, but still want to be warm.

APRES-SKI

During our trip, I took some long lunches and on the second day only did a half-day while most of the group continued to snowboard until the end of the day so rather than wearing my snow gear around the rest of the day, I opted for a quick Apres Ski outfit change. I headed back to the car and removed my boots, snowsuit, neck gaiter, and other snow-specific accessories. I kept on my base layers and then threw on a sweater, jacket, and my favorite find of the season: Moon Boots. Are they ridiculous? Yes. Are they comfortable, warm, and absolutely epic? YES. These are especially great if you are going somewhere that gets a ton of snow. I also threw on a cute beanie to keep warm and a pair of sunglasses to replace my goggles since it was so nice and sunny.

While I’m no expert on the ski or snowboard front and I’m sure I left out a lot in these categories, I hope it was somewhat helpful! I’m excited to add more to my snowboarding wardrobe and share some more amazing locations with y’all! Thanks so much for reading!

shop the look

I’ve been shopping at Lulu’s since college when I needed a very specific color of dress for sorority recruitment. I loved how many options they had and styles that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re shopping for a special occasion or need something cute for date night, Lulus has you covered! Now through the 31st, they are offering 40% off sale styles with code BRIGHT40 and there are so many good things!

Since we are moving into warmer weather I’m updating my Spring wardrobe with dresses, sandals, and more color! I’m a neutrals girl through and through, but something about Spring makes me want to wear all the dresses and all the colors. Check out some of my picks and other favorites below!

TOPS & BLOUSES

dresses

LOUNGEWEAR

SHOES

SWIM

DENIM

The Creative Brief is a Lulu’s Affiliate and utilizes affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through one of these links I could receive a small commission on what you purchase. As always, all opinions are my own.

Hey y’all! We are moving into full-on wedding season and with 2020 being the year most weddings were pushed, 2021 is the year of the weddings! Personally, we have 4 already scheduled and I’m sure there will be a couple more to follow. As silly as it may sound, finding white looks for all the wedding events was one of the more stressful parts of planning for me. I wanted each look to be a moment and something I would look back at and remember exactly the event I wore it to. I got pretty lucky finding mostly affordable dresses for my events, but it took a lot of time and effort in terms of research to find the right ones.

That experience prompted me to put together the master white dress edit for all my brides-to-be! Ranging from shower dresses, jumpsuits and bachelorette party outfits there is something for any event you might need! If it isn’t here please fill me in and I will happily add a category for you and help you shop! I tried my best to keep things affordable, but when it comes to some events, especially if black tie or formal, there are a couple pieces here that are on the higher side. I’ve also included accessories and fun add on items at the bottom of the post.

Showers & Brunch Looks

Rehearsal Dinner

Honeymoon Looks

Bachelorette

Swimsuits & Coverups

ACCESSORIES & FUN ADD-ONS

All Looks

Hey, y’all! I’m so excited to share Ever-Pretty with you again! I first worked with Ever-Pretty in 2019 and have loved their dresses ever since. You can see the posts here. Not only are the dresses and pieces beautiful, but they are well-made and reasonably priced. Whether you’re looking for a formal wedding guest dress, an actual wedding dress option for your reception or even looking for a prom dress, Ever-Pretty has something for every occasion and age group. The brand started in 2005 in California, by CEO & Founder, Anna Shi, and now has locations in the US, Canada, and China. I feel that their mission really resonates with a lot of women and as someone who has needed a lot of dresses in her day, I love their outlook on Ever-Pretty’s purpose:

We know that the modern woman’s life is peppered with important events from prom to graduation, Girls’ Nights Out to weddings, date nights to your first job, and everything between! That is the motivation behind our design: we want you to look and feel your best for every single moment life throws your way!

We recently traveled to Lake Tahoe and I knew it would be the perfect location to shoot the dresses that my friend, Abby, and I chose. With the hope of attending weddings again in 2021 and the excitement that comes with special occasions, we wanted to really showcase how beautiful these pieces are. In true Amanda fashion, I went for glitz and Abby chose sophisticated and chic dresses.

rose Gold Long Sleeve v-Neck Dress

$69 | Featuring a deep v-neckline, long sleeves, and thigh-high slit, this sexy sequin dress is sure to make a glowing statement no matter where you wear it.

SHOP DRESS

This long-sleeve sequin dress comes in three colors and I chose the rose gold option. I thought it was stunning online and knew that in the sunlight it created such a statement. It did not disappoint! Fully-lined and very comfortable, this dress will be a knockout for any occasion. I also think that it would make a beautiful bridesmaids dress if you want something with sparkle, but that is elegant and sophisticated. It does feature a low-cut v-neckline, but could easily be adjusted for as much coverage as you’d like. At $69, it is a great deal for a truly gorgeous dress.

Abby’s dress is one of my favorites on the site and is something that I think would look good on anyone. Featuring a cold-shoulder top and high-low skirt with a thigh-high slit, it is sexy yet sophisticated. The under layer has tulle to accentuate the train and would be beautiful as a wedding guest dress, formal cocktail party dress, or another special occasion. If you’re needing something in the LBD department, this is it!

Off Shoulder Mermaid High-Low Evening Dress

$58 | featuring a cold=shoulder, A-line silhouette, and thigh-high slit, this dress is perfect for an upscale occasion like a formal wedding or cocktail party.

shop dress

On our second night in town, we got lucky with the most gorgeous sunset off the pier on Lake Tahoe. As we walked to the pier to take photos we actually fit in really well with the people going to dinner at the restaurant on the water. Dressed up for dinner or even a rehearsal dinner or wedding, both of these dresses work for formal occasions. Ever-Pretty creates dresses for any occasion and I love how versatile their selection is. Another great thing? They are size and age inclusive. You can find something for your daughter, a dress for a Mother-of-the-Bride, prom options, and even wedding dresses.

Fitted Green Velvet Cocktail Dress

$18 | Inspired by the 90s slip dress, this sexy, fitted emerald green dress is perfect for date night, cocktails or heading out on the town.

Shop Dress

I love this emerald green number that Abby wore. It has spaghetti straps and instantly gave me Cher from Clueless vibes! Since it was so cold while we were there we kept on coats on for most of the images, but this dress would be perfect for date night or cocktails out with the girls. The soft velvet fabric is super comfortable and has a nice stretch so while you’re held in with the fitted style, you’re comfortable since it has a bit of stretch. Pair it with a strappy sandal, high-pony, and amazing pair of earrings for a sophisticated yet fun look.

Fishtail Sequin Evening Dress

$59 | This sequined tulle dress features a deep v-neckline and fishtail skirt, the shimmery leave design also adds an elegant and sophisticated vibe. It comes in 9 colors also!

shop dress

As soon as I saw this color online I knew I wanted it! I’ve always loved burgundy and this dress reminded me of the bridesmaid’s dress I wore at my best friend’s wedding. The fishtail skirt is beautifully paired with tulle and sequin, and the v-neckline adds a sexy element. It comes in 9 colors including white, which I think would be a gorgeous bridal event dress if you have something more formal. The mermaid-silhouette would be flattering on any body type and the beadwork is beautiful!

Thank y’all so much for reading and I hope that you can see my love for Ever-Pretty through this continued partnership. While the last year has been a difficult one, I am excited for the day we can all start celebrating in beautiful dresses together again. Ever-Pretty was so kind to offer TCB readers 15% off their orders of $50 or more with code AMANDA15 at checkout! I’d love to hear about what events you hope to attend this year and what your favorite style dresses are! Be sure to check out Ever-Pretty for your special occasion needs and please let me know if I can be helpful while you shop! Have a fabulous week!

Thank you to Ever-Pretty for sponsoring this post and for the beautiful dresses. It’s businesses like yours that make The Creative Brief possible. All opinions are my own.