Laura Tully

These clothes can't buy you love

all photography by Fiona Montagne 

I use to walk into a clothing store and had this overwhelming need to buy something. I've always loved fashion and for years I told myself that this insatiable urge was there to feed my passion. I thought that it was normal to constantly yearn for material things. I had a closet full of clothes and constantly wanted more. It wasn't enough. I eventually realized that my need for stuff was rooted in how I viewed my worth. Acquiring things or in my case shopping gave me temporary validation that I was enough. I had to acknowledge the bullshit I was feeding myself and it was not easy. When I launched my personal styling company www.lauratully.co almost three years ago it made me conscious of what I wanted to bring to the table for myself and the people I serve. I want style and fashion to be accessible, inclusive and serve as a vehicle for the bigger picture of what my clients are working to create. 

I decided to let go of the power I gave to material things and it made room for all of me to show up as is. All the good, bad and in between is worthy. It was a daily chat with myself that triggered the alarm that believing that you are enough will allow you to choose what brings you towards your best self. I edited my negative thoughts, let go of people who didn't serve the good I wanted to build and became intentional about the things I brought into my space. 

Now when I shop for myself and my clients it comes from a very happy place. It's filled with love, intention, and purpose. Like I said before, it's a process. It doesn't happen overnight. I had the chance to listen to life stories shared by men and women who were in their 90's. No one regrets not buying a pair of shoes ;) or wanting more stuff. What they shared was wanting more time to love, savior and enjoy the people who are in their lives. I've decided to choose people. The stuff that comes into my life will serve as a well-chosen addition to the big picture of whatever goodness I want to create. I hope you will do the same #worthy. 

Wear what you love

Photography: Harley Goul

Wearing what you love is a blissful combination of self- expression embodied with whatever kind of sass you want to deliver. It can be a full scream, a whisper or anything inbetween. What matters is that the choice is done on terms that empower you to be your best self. I've fallen prey to wearing styles that I love that didn't look so hot on me. I look back at these photos and all that jumps out is "what the hell was I thinking?" I've learned to merge the knowledge of what works on my body with styles that I love. Finding those parts of your body that you want to celebrate will reward you with a sense of freedom to choose how you show up. You feeling and being comfortable in your skin is your journey. The goal isn’t to be a replica of what you see. It’s acknowledging that today and tomorrow you will choose YOU and that’s a beautiful thing.

Jacket: Nanuska   denim skirt: Grlfnd ( Fancy Pants)    sweater: H&M  Boots: Rag and Bone

Hello, from Laura

I've settled in for the evening and I'm so excited to sit down and write to you. It's been a busy few weeks and I'm reminding myself to pause and catch a breath. Writing to you is certainly a big part of that "breathing space". Our journey together has been filled with so many teachable moments. Where I am is not isolated from where you are. The next few months, Mama will be bringing you more style goodness that celebrates Spring (can I get a hallelujah on that please), tips to simplifying your wardrobe and celebrating changes that come into our lives. We are growing together and I must say it's quite lovely. 

I truly appreciate all of your kind and supportive messages. It means so much to hear your encouragement and I love seeing your input on style ideas you want me to share ( more please). I'm hear to support you! ( Insert major squeeze right here) We create magic when we climb together. Welcome, to the land of "be yourself". I'm thrilled you've joined. 

Top: JCrew     Jeans: Levi     Shoes: Target

All photos by Karen of Karen E Photos

What To Wear Now

a blissful stroll at Edwards Greenhouse

Sometimes all it takes is that special little piece to make an outfit come alive. This floral necklace from JCrew does just that. It adds that extra spark that makes me feel oh so good! That's the whole point my babes, getting dressed in styles that you look and *feel* good in. I like to wear these statement pieces with a simple look that's more casual. It makes the outfit a bit more playful. So those beautiful pieces that you currently have reserved for special occasion are about to be unleashed. Yep, you deserve to feel beautiful and special everyday. Why? Why the hell not!! 

You are always worthy.

Top: Forever21         necklace: JCrew      Denim: H&M    Shoes: Coach

All photos by the talented Karen E Photos 

 

Sweater Therapy

Snuggled in between Soul/Funk and Reggae at The Record Exchange felt quite fitting :)

The current temperature situation in Boise, Idaho is 10 degrees. What that means my fine folks is that it's f-bomb cold! As I've discussed a few post back, there is nothing cute about shivering. So let's figure out how to add a little dose of goodness that helps to ease the impact of these frigid temperatures. I want something that says "hey girl, I've got your front, your back and I'm here to keep you cozy." ( this is said in an ultra smooth Barry White voice :) That leads me to coveting sweaters that do double duty: apply warmth to my body and of course, keeps my style game happy. 

This sweater tho!! This lace up detail is a a trend that I'm loving on because it offers a cool detail to an otherwise simple sweater.  That's right, my cozy sweater game just got upgraded and it feels so right. This goodness is by Endless Rose. It's a 100% wool but not itchy.  Here's a few other styles that will help us get through what we have affectionally call snowmageddon in Idaho (hehe) This cuteness from JCrew. I mean, stripes and warmth ( YES!!) and this v-neck cozy sweater from Topshop. Stay warm and safe my peeps and I'll see you next week for more fashion filled goodness. Let me know if you snag any of these styles and how you plan on rocking them. Hugging on YOU!!!

All photos by the talented Karen of Karenephoto

5 Things That Fuels My Happy

I've tried to generate blog post that I can pre-plan and it never works. I am one of those people that has to be in the moment. I get the chance to speak with you from a space that I know is genuine and not just for the sake of typing a few words. The last few months have been busy and full of style loving mayhem and I've been asked how do I keep my light, happy go get it self charged.  For me, I've realized how important it is to FIND MY DOSE OF HAPPY IN EVERY LITTLE NOOK AND CRANNY THAT I ENCOUNTER. Don't get me wrong, life gets real, ugh...so real at times and you feel out of sorts but babes I tell you, when you look at things from the standpoint of what I am grateful for in this moment. Holy chipotle, it's a game changer. 

Early morning bare faced and soul at The Society Hotel in Portland

Launching my own personal styling business came from a place of fear, desperate love of all things fashionable but most of all, having the opportunity to meet and style some of the most incredible humans. What that means to me is I AM THANKFUL FOR EVERY PERSON THAT COMES INTO MY LIFE, NO MATTER WHAT. I know it seems crazy because you're probably saying that there has been a few bad eggs that you wished you never encountered. What I take from that is a lesson. No matter the circumstance, you are going to be taught something, will give something and it is not a worthless moment. 

PERFECTION ISN'T REAL BUT EFFORT IS. The comparison game can leave you feeling defeated. What I've learned and continue to learn is the more I focus on how can I be helpful today instead of who can help me today, the better I feel. My efforts to try, always isn't about how perfect I can make things but more about, am I doing all that I can right now. It grants me the permission to make mistakes, learn from them and simply try again and again. 

FIND YOUR GOOD EGGS AND LOVE ON THEM HARD! I've had the opportunity to have so many people come in and out of my life with a purpose. Its made me appreciate the ones that fuel my happy by being honest, caring and never allowing me to doubt who I am.  They give me love and that awesome thread of connection. Show up for your good eggs and love on them all the time. 

NOW MATTERS MORE. I try to soak up what is happening right now in this moment. Yes tomorrow is relevant and goals are drivers for your tomorrow. However, I try not to lose focus on the present. There can be so many distractions ( so many) that pulls you away from getting all that you can from your now moments that it can be easy to miss out on those small delights. My stepdaughter Maddie ( the cutest human ever), has told me not to be on my phone while she's talking to me...say what?!! It was a huge moment for me and for us. I give her my full attention and get to hear those little and big things that are important to her. Things I could easily miss if I wasn't fully present. 

Quiet moments captured by the talented Karen E. Photography

One of my amazing humans introduced me to Brené Brown.  She is an American scholar, author, and public speaker. Listening to her was an illuminating experience for me and whenever I find something that is awesome and teaches me, I must share it with you. This is one of my favorite quotes from her: 

"Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen"  Brené Brown

I hope it brings to you your own sense of purpose in this fantastic journey called life. 

How to hug in Portland

Japanese garden in Portland, OR

Okay I will fess up!! The hugging routine of Portlanders is no different from ours but I will say this I felt the love from all  the wonderful eating spots, cool boutiques, local bars (images not available ;)  and the oh so rad hotels we stayed in.  

I mean hospitality oozes from every pore and that just makes this girl very happy. 

Our stay in Portland, felt like this beautiful picture above taken by my girl Karen of Karen E Photography. Karen has an amazing eye and when we get the chance to work together, it's pure fun. I have so many ideas in my head and she's able to frame it perfectly.  Our trip was a combination of work and play but when your work is your play it all melts together seamlessly. We stayed at this amazing boutique hotel in downtown Portland called, The Society Hotel . It was originally built in 1881 as a boarding house for sailors. Quaint, cool and walking distance to so many yummy eating spots. Portland, you know how to treat a girl with all your amazing eats. Seriously y'all, every meal, fantastic. We mixed it up for our last night and stayed at the uber modern Hotel Eastlund. We've decided that hotel hopping was going to be a definite do on our next adventure, why not right?!!  

The Society Hotel 

Hotel Eastlund 

FOODPORN:   Brunch- Eat at Broder Nord. Order the Swedish pancakes that I would describe as foreplay...yes, they're that good. If you think all tater tots are created equal- try these badboys at McMenamins- Kennedy School. It's a game changer. Toro Bravo...heaven for dinner. The dishes are served tapas style and we enjoyed a long dinner with awesome company. Hey Nicole :)

THIS AND THAT- We visited so many great shops. Local nurseries that made me want to remedy my non-green thumb; Proof that KK is a tiny little thing and Mama's a tall drink of water; Cool floors at FETCH; KK loving on our hotel bed; Visit Por que no for Mexican eating that taste like grandma's loving. A great recommendation from our friend Em. 

I got to snap a shot of this beauty. 

KK: Karen and I have spent a lot of time together in the last year. I get the chance to create with someone who I respect and has a bit of that oddity, like myself,  which allows for some fun outside the box happenings. She's cool, talented and knows how to take those pics. For more Karen goodness check her out at Karen E Photography and IG @karenephoto. 

HELLO OUTFITS - These gold shoes were a staple. I wore them with everything on our trip...seriously, I did :)

Coat and turtleneck- JCrew; denim- Frame; Shoes- a steal at a LA vintage shop with my girl Jess. 

I hope you felt the HUGS!! Every getaway fuels my passion and it connects me to what really matters. I get so excited to share with you all my cool finds and loves. If it helps me grow, fuels my passion, enlightened a new perspective and allow a cute outfit to happen, yep, I'm sharing it with you. Thank you for allowing me to do that. It's your hug to me :)

Lessons learned from Mama #MamaKnowsBest

So let me explain my Mom to you just a bit. She is 5’4” maybe, on a good day, full of energy and doesn’t mind telling me what she thinks (with or without request). She’s my favorite person and she drives me crazy. It’s the most wonderful and maddening love ever :)

Growing up, my Mom was a bit of a hard ass ( yah I said it, sorry Mom but you were). Ugh, those days where I just wanted to scream at you and slam the door because I thought you were trying to make my life a living hell. I realized, eventually, how thankful I was for those moments. I’m so happy that you demanded more from me than I did myself. 

Mama lesson learned: TRY HARDER

When I did poorly on something my Mom would ask me in her very thick Jamaican accent “How hard did you try? Did you prepare yourself so that you could produce the best result? If you tell me yes, then I know you tried.”
Yep…I just wanted to yell at her because she was right (grrr)  and my poor performance was usually the result of being ill-prepared or really not being interested whatsoever. 
So now,  I work towards trying to be better on whatever job I take on. I learn something new after every project and I ask myself, what can I do better for my clients. I’ve noticed that there is always something to improve upon. Better isn’t about perfection, to me it's about allowing meaningful progress. Experience is a good teacher. 

Mama lesson learned: BE YOUR OWN CHEERLEADER

I actually learned this from a few of my "Mamas" - amazing women whom I love and admire a great deal. I'm grateful to have each of them in my world. They've provided amazing support,  love and pushed me to see my value in so many ways. 

You know that little voice that creeps up inside your head that says "babe, you've got this" or that moment ( visualize hands on your hips, legs apart, superwoman stance, cape blowing in the wind) YES THAT! Mama wants you to  hold on to that with all your might and believe in yourself like the champion you are. Yes, I have my moments when I'm dropping f-bombs (privately) because something is not vibing the way it should ( it's life). I take a breather and then work to see how I can kick the problems booty. Having my own back, keeps me accountable for my actions and inactions. It also let's me acknowledge that things will be okay because I've got my back.

Mama lesson learned: LOVE BIG OR GO HOME

When I visit my Mom, she has a menu laid out of all my favorite meals because as she puts it "baby, they don't feed you enough food in Idaho"...such a  Mom thing right!!! That's the best kind of loving, Mom's home cooking ( insert happy dance here and here). 

What does all this home cooking chatter mean?? If you're going to love, love fully. My Mom shows me her love in the biggest and best way she knows how by taking care of what fills me body and soul. I had to learn this love big thang the hard way a few times because loves great but sometimes it hurts bad, real bad.  So why love big Laura?? Well my awesome peeps, it made me appreciate how awesome it feels when this full love came my way. Not just from my hubby but from the people who care about me in the deepest way. It filters all the other mess out. It's amazing. Having that in my world allowed me to be grateful and appreciate what love means in the realest way. Loving big for me is a all-in commitment not naivety, understanding and being your loves sound board. It's hard, easy and everything in between but so worth it. 

I always thought I would get to this point where I would have this "stuff" figured out or least most of it. Nope, not the case for me. I'm learning all along the way with more clarity as I go. Mama does know best and she's trying to share it in her own way. Some of those lessons go over a bit smoother than others, some I learned in my own way. 

To quote my wonderful stepdaughter Maddie..."Moms are pretty awesome." I couldn't agree more :)

Summer staple: denim shorts

happy place

Warm weather does something amazing to my soul!! It's the Jamaican in me. The sun on my skin and the sight of everything illuminated makes me feel charged! My trip to LA was immersed with so many great experiences, a big one was the fantastic sunshine.

 My friend Jessica of J.Lee Photos took some beautiful photos and is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to places to dine and immerse in laidback LA life. This darling spot is called The Alcove and as a foodie, I was giddy with joy. 

This place was surrounded by flowers and rich green succulents. The simple homey vibe makes you want to hang out  for most of your morning. 

Shorts: Current Elliot      T-shirt: JCrew       Shoes: Madewell

Most of you know that I'm a strong advocate for comfort and style. These Current Elliott denim shorts are a soft denim and I got them a few years back at Fancy Pants in downtown Boise. They have some great new styles that are loved. The fit and length doesn't leave me feeling as if I need to yank them down every 5 minutes ( you know what I mean!!).  My guide to denim shorts is to choose one  with a softer denim, sits on your hip and is slightly loose, like these.  It allows for a shorter length without feeling like you have booty shorts on ;) If you want a bit longer length,  I love these.  They can be rolled up or down to your liking. You can find find similar styles at Piece Unique in downtown Boise.

This grapefruit was picked from Jessica's front yard....LOVE!!!

My Summer wear is light, simple and all about keeping my cool. What are your must have Summer staples??  It's going to be a good one!! :)