christian fashion – Brynne Anika

Brown is boring…Just Kidding!

December 23, 2019December 23, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

TWO DAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS? Time is flying by this month!

As a brunette, I’ve never been keen on wearing brown as a staple in my outfits, but this is one of the few times I’ve found a brown top that I love wearing!

I really enjoy the silky quality of the top, and the white polka dots help give it some contrast. The trumpet sleeves also give the shirt shape even though it has a lot of flow to it. The buttons are a simple detail that top off the shirt.

Everyone needs a solid, dark pair of skinny jeans as a staple in their wardrobe. These high waisted dark skinnies are super comfortable and make my top pop in comparison to the dark wash.

Once again, statement earrings are the key to a fun wardrobe! It’s so easy to use them and make the overall outfit so much more interesting! I love the tassels mixed with the gold colored metal in the earrings. They pair so well with the silky top! I also love adding a little bit of accessory flare with the stone-patterned beaded bracelet!

This whole outfit was styled with pieces from Urban Found! If you are in need of getting some last minute presents before Christmas, Urban Found is the cutest place with affordable clothing/accessories. They have three locations in West Michigan: Holland, South Haven, and Saugatuck.

Overall, taking these pictures in this greenhouse was so magical! Little would you know that it was 20 degrees outside when I was nice and warm in here! When it’s two days before Christmas, you don’t really mind the cold weather as much since it puts you in good spirits…

As always, thank you for reading and have a very Merry Christmas Eve Eve!

xo, Brynne

Jazz Up Neutrals With Camo

December 22, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

This winter, I’ve been obsessed with playing with neutral tones and jazzing them up. There are so many neutrals out there besides black and white! I’m really feeling camo this season.

First of all, I’m in love with this gray top! I like the layered look of the long and short sleeves; it gives the whole outfit some extra texture!

Next up are the camo pants! I love the color and they can make so many other colors work with them. Not to mention, the zipper detail on the bottom of the leg is super cute and lets you adjust the leg length.

If you know me, you know that accessories complete the outfit! I love the mixture of long gold levels and smaller silver beads in this necklace. The rounded look is so unique!

Last but not least, I’m in LOVE with this full leather purse! The leather is so well done and soft, and is a great neutral to add to an outfit with brown tones. I would recommend it anywhere!

That’s all for today folks! Again, this outfit is completely styled at Urban Found, you should definitely check them out for some last minute Christmas shopping! They have stores in downtown Holland, South Haven, and Saugatuck.

Have an amazing pre-Christmas weekend, and thank you for reading!😊

Xo, Brynne

It’s Holiday Party Time!

December 20, 2019December 20, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

I am giving some MAJOR actress vibes with this outfit! (My other side as an artist is coming out.) This might be one of my favorite outfits to style thus far! This is the PERFECT outfit to go to a Holiday party in!

First of all, the statement piece is definitely the fur jacket! It’s vegan fur and the coziest thing in the world! Not only does it look fancy, but it feels like I’m wearing a bathrobe!

Next up we’ve got this awesome knit cream sweater! I love that there’s metallic looking pieces in the fabric which give it a little glam! It’s a great neutral because it’s fun at the same time!

I will forever be a fan of olive colored jeans. Seriously you guys, I love the color because once again, they’re a neutral that can go with almost anything! The high waist with the buttons up the front is such a fun detail!

Last but not least: Statement. Earrings. Urban Found has the best selection of earrings, and I will forever be a fan of them! I love the thread of these and they are the perfect glitzy match to the coat!

All of these clothing items besides the shoes are from Urban Found! They have 3 locations in West Michigan: Holland, South Haven, and Saugatuck. I highly recommend checking them out as they have such great selections and affordable prices for the Holiday Season!

I am so thankful for all of you reading my posts! I hope you have a cheerful Holiday season!!!

Xo, Brynne

Why Do I Love Jesus?

May 11, 2019December 23, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in Life

A wise friend asked me a couple days ago why I love Jesus. Honestly, it stopped me dead in my tracks. That’s not something that I think about quite often. Yeah, I love Jesus, I know he died for me, but why? It took a lot of thinking to figure out.

Here’s a disclaimer: I think this answer can change at various points for any person who is trying to answer this question for themselves. If you can’t, I totally get it. It’s a simple, yet difficult question. But I have to know why I love Him in order to tell other people about Him. It would make me a pretty naive Christian to follow blindly.

So I came down to a couple thoughts. The first one is that Christ lets me discover why I love Him. We were not forced to love God the minute we were born. That freedom of choice is beautiful beyond our human knowledge because if God wanted to, He could have forced us to love Him. But truthfully, what would the point of love be if it was forced? It would be slavery, not love.

The second thing I thought of is His sacrifice. It took me a very long time to emotionally understand this and I still need to remind myself of it when I get too focused on my own life. I talked about this in a previous blog I wrote last summer (Check it out here), but it truly came down to my love of the arts, the gift God has blessed me with. I had to be a part of Jesus’s world by being a part of Godspell which made me see the crucifixion night after night. I would leave the stage every night with tears and mascara streaming down my face. I believe the Lord picks the perfect moments to teach us exactly what we need to hear. I also believe He gives us the right people for those times. The incredible cast that I had the honor of doing that show with became family. They were my friends and my fellow disciples. We laughed, cried, hugged, and joked every day together. If it were not for them, I wouldn’t understand the fellowship that Jesus created during His life. And my fellow cast mate that played the role of Jesus led us with such humility and grace that he was truly believable. That experience showed me that Christ was a friend to His disciples and followers. He loved them and gave himself up to save us. To see that before my eyes night after night was such a rare gift.

The third reason is His grace. This is the one that I struggle with a lot as I do not have a lot of grace for myself. I reflect a lot on the mistakes I’ve made, and usually I look back on them in a way that doesn’t allow me to move forward. I’ve been realizing if you let your past haunt you, you’re not giving yourself grace. And if you’re not giving yourself grace, how can you give that properly to others? The beauty of God’s grace is that He gives it to all of us, no matter what you’ve done. In no way does He hold it against you. It’s the balance of knowing you are forgiven and learning from your mess-ups after it’s happened. He loves us so much that He’s always willing to forgive and love us afterward, but loves us too much to want us to make the same mistake again. Wherever you fall into, whether it be lack of grace or understanding the truth, I’ve learned how important it is to learn both aspects of God’s forgiveness in order to understand His love.

I am very thankful for those in my life who ask the difficult questions. I love to get those because not only does it make me think, but I cannot be a witness of Christ unless my thoughts are challenged. If any of you have questions on my faith, please let me know!

Xo, Brynne

What I Wore: Outfit #2 in New Orleans

April 10, 2019April 10, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

Hello everyone, it’s finally spring! It feels surreal to walk around without a coat on. It’s so beautiful out that I’ve had the urge to go to the beach and get ice cream multiple times this week, can’t deny it any longer!

With warmer weather comes lots of Spring fashion! This is one of my favorite outfits I wore in New Orleans. It was super comfortable and I was able to wear it while I took a cemetery tour and walk all over the French Quarter! It had the perfect lightness to keep me cool, but just enough protection from getting too much sun.

My top is a passed on vintage blouse from my aunt. It’s 100% silk and I absolutely love it because it’s so soft and light! The colors are super fun as well. It kind of reminds me of Dr. Facilier from The Princess and the Frog!

My tank top is also passed on vintage from my aunt, but I found a very similar version on Lulus that I love! (It’s Free People, of course.)

My jeans are from the Gap Outlet, and they are so stretchy and comfy. The high waist is such a cute look with a longer shirt or with something you can partially tuck in.

I got my sunglasses from The Trashy Diva, a vintage inspired boutique store in the French Quarter. I loved their glasses and I had to get this pair!

Lastly, my shoes are the brand Sam Elderman and I got them from Nordstrom Rack! Nordstrom’s shoes are always so cute and I could honestly spend hours in there trying things on! If you ever need a new pair of shoes before you go on vacation, Nordstrom Rack is the place to look.

I’ve linked very similar clothing pieces at the bottom to get the same look as the one I’ve put together in my post.

I hope you enjoy this beautiful spring weather and you’re looking forward to summer as much as I am! Have an incredible day!

Xo, Brynne

Screen Shot 2019-04-09 at 9.39.08 PM — https://www.samedelman.com/en-US/Product/EC0231230-3018173/Sam+Edelman/White+Leather/Lia+Studded+Loafer.aspx

Screen Shot 2019-04-09 at 9.45.26 PM — https://www.johnlewis.com/mint-velvet-stripe-blouse-multi/p3967179

Screen Shot 2019-04-09 at 9.46.33 PM — https://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=455395002&cid=1076535&pcid=5664

https://www.bloomingdales.com/shop/product/quay-womens-hearsay-cat-eye-sunglasses-58mm?ID=3030653&pla_country=US&cm_mmc=Google-PLA-ADC-_-Jewelry%20%26%20Accessories-NA-_-Quay-_-9343963025507USA&CAWELAID=120156070007991656&CAGPSPN=pla&CAAGID=47685648719&CATCI=pla-382928983890&CATARGETID=120156070006241163&cadevice=c&gclid=CjwKCAjwhbHlBRAMEiwAoDA34w7_4YxtpN4PiprshFDbahfWlcmCrN9LOoa2dSXj4acEVb3iZoqtjhoCfkcQAvD_BwE

Screen Shot 2019-04-09 at 9.50.19 PM — https://www.lulus.com/products/sure-thang-black-lace-tank-top/591412.html

What I Wore: Outfit #1 in New Orleans

April 3, 2019April 3, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

Hey it’s ya girl, back on the fashion grind! This was one of my fave outfits to wear in New Orleans because it was the perfect mixture of casual, funky, and classy. Not only did it check off all my fashion requirements, but it was so comfy! I found my jeans at Urban Found, which is a smaller West Michigan company, but I found a similar pair from Free People here that I think is so so cute!

My top is from Madewell (where else do I shop?) but I bought it at Nordstrom Rack. Nordstrom Rack has had some great Madewell tops and pants lately, so I definitely recommend checking it out.

My shoes are from Old Navy and I LOVE them! I’ve been looking for chunky sandals like this for awhile and these were exactly what I was looking for! Honestly, I’ve never shopped much at Old Navy, but their spring and summer pieces are very fun, hip, and artsy. Not to mention, it’s very reasonably priced.

As always, I hope you had fun checking this outfit out and I’m so pumped for the warm weather to reach the north! Hang in there, it’s coming!

Xo, Brynne

3 Tips on Wearing Dresses in the Winter

February 10, 2019February 10, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

Hello everyone! Wow it’s been a bit! After a week of scheduling, going to classes, and planning for the future, I’ve finally had some time during my February break to write a little bit! I really like the winter, but the only downside is not being able to show off cute clothes. Everyone is in a coat and unless you’re trying to stay cozy indoors, there’s no great way to rock an outfit when it’s chilly out! I especially miss pulling out my dresses. Lucky for you, I have some pro tips for creating some great dress-fits that don’t mind the cold as much.

Wear Tights- This may seem like an obvious one, but I see ladies all over my campus that look absolutely miserable going to classes or special events because they’re trying to face the snow and wind in bare legs. For the love of soft skin and lack of hypothermia, tights were created for a reason! You can pull of sheer, black tights with just about any outfit (even rompers/jumpsuits) as well as colorful tights to spice up and outfit. And if your dress calls for bare legs, there’s also skin-toned tights to make your legs seem bare but allow you to stay warm! Do yourself a favor and don’t freeze to death!
Layer With a Sweater- This is my favorite tip. You can add a little flavor to any outfit by adding a cardigan or pullover sweater to a seemingly cold outfit. You’ll keep warm and look super cute! If your dress doesn’t have as much detail, it’s a great way to add texture and a pop of something different. Depending on how cold it is (PLEASE keep in mind the weather), you may not even need a jacket! It’s an artsy and classy way of wearing a sweatshirt over a dress, but you look cuter!
Wear an Undershirt. I know I’ve definitely regretted putting on a tank top when I can feel a breeze going straight through my shirt or sweater. It’s not fun, especially in temperatures below freezing. Wearing a tank top is a small way to stay warm and isn’t noticeable at all. You will thank yourself for wearing a cami or tank when the wind chill is in the negatives and you have to dress up for a presentation!

Brynne-11 (1) — I like mixing different patterns with my outfits to make the details pop!

I’m looking forward to ditching some my snow boots for some sandals and sitting out in the sun! I know it’s coming, we just have to believe. 😉 Have a wonderful day, stay warm, and don’t forget to bundle up when you’re ready to look cute!

xo, Brynne

Sweater: Francesca’s

Tights: Francesca’s: original discontinued, but similar here

Dress: Topshop: original, discontinued, but similar here and here

Boots: Clarks, similar here

Winter Glam

January 30, 2019January 30, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

It is absolutely awful out! In Michigan, there’s a -42 windchill set for tomorrow, so thank goodness my school decided to cancel class and activities for tomorrow! It gives me the chance to catch up on some much needed rest, reflection, and chill time. Despite the terrible weather, I’ve had so much fun this past month pulling some outfits together. This one is definitely one of my favorites that I’ve put together!

My top is from Madewell. It was on sale when I bought it and I was overjoyed! I love the details on the arms and the bottom of the shirt. Plus, I’m a sucker for velvet and the color is so flattering on anyone (even on sad, pale people like myself)! It’s also a rare in-between kind of shirt where you could dress it up or down depending on what you’re wearing it for. It’s perfect for going out, a business interview, audition, or even a fun everyday top!

My pants are from Topshop. I had been eyeing them for awhile in Nordstrom because I thought they were the cutest. Thankfully, they went on sale and then I had a gift card. The detailing is so fun and I love that the colors are all neutrals. The silver brings such a fun pop to the outfit. I wear them all the time!

My boots are from Clarks! I’ve mentioned them so many times before, but I’ve worn them almost every day since I’ve gotten them. They’re really durable and for people who have wide feet, they’re so comfortable. They also have great arch support. I’ve worn them all over Chicago for a day and didn’t feel any pain in my feet. Plus, they’re so classic!

That’s all I have for today. I’m gonna make myself some hot chocolate tonight and get a lot of sleep. Stay warm out there and bundle up! You’re going to need it!

xo, Brynne

https://www.clarksusa.com/c/Mascarpone-Bay/p/26135250

https://www.madewell.com/velvet-tulip-sleeve-ruffle-top-K5740.html?color=RD6535&position=11&position=11&activeChunk=0#q=velvet%2Bshirt&lang=default&start=1

https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/topshop-moto-stripe-skinny-jeans/5080877?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&breadcrumb=Home%2FAll%20Results&color=washed%20black

Grab Your Sweater, It’s Chilly Season!

January 19, 2019January 19, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

How’s it going friends? The New Year is off is a crazy start and it’s only been a couple weeks! I feel as if I haven’t gotten a break yet, but as Gloria Gaynor says, “I will survive!” The weather has been chill out and all I’ve wanted to do is to lay in sweat pants and a sweatshirt all day and watch Netflix. It can be so hard to be productive and want to get things done in the winter slump, but I’ve found a fun way to look cute and stay warm!

My sweater is from Pull and Bear, and I bought it from TJ Maxx! I am in love with this sweater because it is SO soft and cozy! It’s really comfortable and effortless to throw on with a pair of jeans, yet it still looks elegant and put-together. The color is great and looks good on anyone. (Gotta love those jewel tones!)

My necklace is from Altar’d State and sadly they aren’t selling it anymore but I really love the necklaces that they have. Their jewelry is very affordable, well-made, and super cute! Their longer necklaces would be really cute paired with this outfit.

My jeans are from American Eagle, and the light wash is a great contrast to the dark shade of blue from the sweater. The rips are a fun use of texture, but it was definitely chilly to wear these during a snowfall! I’m looking forward to using the jeans more in the Spring and Summer.

My boots are also from TJ Maxx, and I’ve found some very similar pairs on DSW’s website which I will list down below! Honestly, I love these shoes so much because they really continue the line of your leg and they carry over to any season of the year!

As much as the snow is beautiful, I’m really looking forward to some warmer days ahead of me! I can already see the green grass, blue skies, and warm, sandy beaches like mirage in all of these blizzards… We got this!

As always, have a lovely night!

xo, Brynne

https://www.na-kd.com/en/na-kd/chenille-knitted-sweater-navy

https://www.dsw.com/en/us/product/journee-collection-spritz-wide-calf-over-the-knee-boot/413879?activeColor=001

https://www.altardstate.com/shop/jewelry/necklace/long-druzy-w-tassel-pndnt.html

https://www.ae.com/women-ae-ne-x-t-level-360-highest-waist-jegging-crushed-ice/web/s-prod/0438_1576_946?cm=sUS-cUSD

Patterned and Textured Winter Outfit

January 13, 2019January 13, 2019 by Brynne Anika, posted in FASHION

The snow is finally coming down in Michigan and it’s getting really chilly! Although the winter months can be hard to get through sometimes, I really love a fresh snowfall. My top is from Madewell, and it’s on sale right now which is a big plus! I love this top because I can wear it in the summer and winter as it has darker colors mixed in with a short sleeve. I love the slight pleats and the flare at the bottom. Not to mention, the little stars are such a fun pattern!

My cardigan is by the crochet artist London Kaye which I got at TJ Maxx! I love the confetti looking dots on the cardigan that you can see if you look closely. I had a lot of fun mixing it with my top because I could mix around the fun patterns and texture. The sweater is a little different than just a solid color, but doesn’t clash with the top.

My jeans are from American Eagle and they’re technically considered to be jeggings. I love their fit and the distressed denim makes them edgy and casual. The light wash makes for a great contrast next to my top.

Lastly, I got my boots from TJ Maxx as well. I’ve wanted knee-high boots for so long and I finally found a pair that was affordable! They go so well with my jeans because they fit over them nicely and the boots have a little bit of wrinkling at the top which adds a little texture and space to the boot. When I first put this outfit together, I didn’t think it was going to work well. But I surprised myself when I put it on my body! It’s funny how I really can’t visualize some things until I wear it. It was so fun to mix and match to further my fashion palette!