Celebrations abound after reaching another a major milestone in my PhD journey: the successful defense of my research proposal! If I can be honest, January was somewhat brutal. It was filled with late nights and diligent work towards finalizing my proposal and preparing to defend it to my dissertation committee. There is something about sharing your own original ideas and defending them that makes you feel particularly vulnerable. Yet, this experience is another reminder to trust in your journey. You have all the tools for success. I’ve taken some well deserved time over the past week to pamper myself galore with spa treatments and stay-cations (New Glow. Who Dis?!).

This little number was a part of the festivities.

Temperatures in Atlanta dropped just enough for this shaggy faux fur (swoon!). I paired it with a vegan leather pleated skirt and caged pumps. I haven’t worn all black lately (I go through my phases), but something about this look feels so regal. The coat and skirt are both from  Zara (and they are having an amazing sell right now). My shoes are from Nine West.

Cheers to February!