NOW, USUALLY I DON'T DO THIS...

... A serious posts that is. I like to keep things light and fun here, but after a lot of reflection I have to lay down some real thoughts and feels. It helps if you sing it along with R Kelly's "Ignition Remix." I already got you started right there at the top, so just keep on keepin' on with a story "hot and fresh out the kitchen."

My first night spent in the city, I was having dinner with my dad in Midtown. Thoughts of safety and the nature of my new life had been the only topic on his mind, understandably, and we spent another meal discussing the present and future.

Anyone that is lucky enough to have spent time with my family knows the character and nature of my father- specifically his ability to spark a conversation with anyone, especially over toddies. So it wasn't unusual when the man next to my dad joined our conversation and shared some words of wisdom.

The man was a native New Yorker and spent most of the conversation telling us about his excursions around the world. His experiences were incredible to say the least. His hands showed us the height and structure of the buildings he has built, his accent demonstrated the tough nature up his upbringing in the Bronx, and eyes sparkled when he talked about his daughters and family. All of this life experience, yet his eyebrows still raised in disbelief upon hearing the fact a Kansas City girl received a position with a top designer. This is a gesture I have become accustomed to from people I meet and whom recognize the Tom Ford name, but after hearing of his extraordinary life, this was the last response I expected from this man.

Before departing, we thanked him for sharing his stories but couldn't leave before being told something that has been ringing in my ears for 3 months:

"New York will rip you apart... then piece you together in a whole different way. You'll never be the same."

Through multiple series of events,  I can say I am an entirely different person. I returned home for a weekend in February and it wasn't the same, waking into my sorority felt different and the room I returned to instantly felt nostalgic and oh-so-John Hughes.

Living, traveling and consistently being alone has brought my a sense of inner peace and acceptance I think I've needed for a long time. College is that weird limbo period of needing mom and dad yet "being on your own."* But this real world experience has granted me the kick in the butt one gets when they have to figure things out for themselves and spend some time alone.

This past Sunday was my first holiday alone and I spent it with the beautiful people and sights of Coney Island. With only one month left of my time in the city, I plan on taking advantage of the spring weather and sharing my adventures more!


*calling the shots on your pizza order.

KC ---> NYC

Life has been a blur since relocating a month ago. Bustling streets, early morning commutes and a busy schedule has kept me from creating and updating. Tom Ford has treated me to a sweet and butt-kicking welcome. After joining in the midst of award season and weeks before the big AW15 show, I got an instant taste of the NYC pace. And I am in love. I  moved here knowing my life would be changed, however I did not expect it to change so quickly. I feel as if I have aged ten years in one month.

The move as brought loneliness and heart-ache with the transition to living with 40 beautiful women in a mansion to myself and a toaster oven in a one bedroom. It's a test of friendship and I can't be more thrilled to find I have the truest and most insanely beautiful group of friends and family. The move has also brought out a sense of pride I would not have experienced otherwise. A few jaw drops and the constant question of, "Wait, so you're here all by yourself?" is enough to make you realize what you're doing is something to be proud of and not take for granted.

I fulfilled a life dream of mine by attending New York Fashion Week in a budget-breaking number and a constant smile of wonder upon my face. Charlotte Ronson was a feminine beaut to watch and was perfected with the musical genius that is her sister, Samantha Ronson.

As a woman that loves to keep busy, I find it difficult to pause and act as a tourist sometimes. My vow to my followers and myself is to return to the act of capturing everything and writing what I see and feel. So here I am, soaking in every second of every experience that comes my way. To exploring and memorizing the streets to conquering the subway lines I am here a month later and looking forward to the next three to come.


xx. Ashley.

ADIDAS RECAP

This has been easily the busiest semester of my college career. Two internships and a part time job? Don't forget two positions in my sorority. Oh.. and sleep? Who needs it when you can cuddle with your studies! Regardless, it has been beyond rewarding as I am packing up to relocate to New York City next semester for the dream internship at a 5WPR agency in their fashion and beauty department. Move over, Carrie!

My adventure with adidas must come to a conclusion and I'm so proud of our team! Here is a recap of the brief but fun semester because we #ownthecampus!

OWNING THE CAMPUS WITH ADIDAS

Junior year has brought a new endeavor: adidas. adidas created a great line catering towards select schools, KU included, and I have been acting as a brand ambassador to drive students toward these styles. I love what I do and these past two years have made it clear I am in the right field!

Check out what the team has been up to:

WHITE HOT SUMMER

Michael Kors Medium Selma Top-Zip Satchel from Michael Kors. White and Gold Hermes Clic Clac from Threadflip.com.  Little White Lies White Crotchet Tunic from ASOS. $120. White iPad mini from Target. $299. White Michael by Michael Kors white plate jelly sandals from Nordstrom. $49. 

I've gone a little crazy this summer. After a trying school year, I wanted to treat myself to the pieces I've been eying throughout sophomore year. Turns out, it went with a theme. 

MY INTERVIEW WITH KC FASHION DESIGNER ANDREA LONG

KU alumae and Kansas City native Andrea Long made waves at the most recent Kansas City Fashion Week in March with her feminine and classic designs. Since first participating in the show in Spring 2013, Long has become a household name among Midwest fashionistas.

I got the incredible opportunity to sit with Long and talk about her start, present and future in designing. Check out my interview below!

KEEPIN' UP WITH ASOS

My love and work for ASOS continues this semester as I plan and coordinate events to promote the brand. The latest was a spring break event only complete with a photo shoot and scavenger hunt it was a blast hanging out with friends and rewarding them with ASOS goodies. 

Next up: Finals study break in 2 weeks! I can't believe my experience with ASOS is almost at it's end but I can't be grateful enough for the experience and lessons it has taught me in planning, promoting and communication. Cheers to ASOS!