Annalise Zink – Thread Magazine

The Backbones of Style you NEED to have in your Closet!

Posted on April 14, 2019April 14, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Hello stylin’ people! Lately, I have been diving deep into what fashion experts have to stay about true style. Fads are born, then they die all too quickly. We drop hundreds of dollars on the latest and hottest trends only to find ourselves buying into a new trend 3 weeks later. I want to share the 10 BONES of style to invest in (that doesn’t always mean spending a lot of money). An elite boss woman in the fashion industry, Nina Garcia, best known as being a judge on Project Runway, shares in her book, “The Little Black Book of Style” these top 10 essentials (aka the bones of your closet) for any stylish individual. Take a look! After reading through these, my closet is about to get a solid makeover and lose about 10 pounds of unnecessary clothing. Enjoy xo

The Little Black Dress

The ultimate black canvas. It is mysterious a chic. In the simplicity of the little black dress, you look effortlessly stylish, sophisticated, and elegant. This is an absolute must for your closet.

A Classic Men’s White Shirt

Nina says, “The classic white shirt is as key to American style as blue jeans. It is chic and simple.” Enough said. We all need one.

Cashmere Cardigan or Turtleneck

A cashmere cardigan is perfect over anything- a dress, a t-shirt, a button-down shirt. A turtleneck is also perfectly paired with almost anything. These pieces are absolutely timeless. Neither of them will go out of style.

A Trench Coat

A classic trench can work in any kind of weather and goes well with almost anything! The best part is you look instantly stylish, classy, and mysterious.

Denim

Nina says, “there is something about jeans that gives a girl an aura on instant style.” I agree! Rebellious and elegant. They are the most versatile, most perfect item. The most alluring part of denim is that it can dress anything down!

A Man’s Classic Watch

This is an item I definitely need to purchase. Women’s watching tend to go with the trends. But a man’s watch is simple, timeless, and looks amazing with almost any look.

Diamonds

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend amirite? Fake ones are too if you’re like me! 😉 They are perfect for day or night, casual or dressy…and any and every season!

Flats

There are few moments when you have to give up your heels in the name of practicality, or maybe you are more of a flats kind of person. Pointed toe flats are simple, chic, and timeless. They are comfy and practical and add a feminine sprinkle to any look!

A Classic High Heel Pump

It is essential to have one classic high heel that you can rely on at any given time. You can always depend on a classic black heel. There is no going wrong. Find a pair that you love, feels good, and makes you feel like a boss.

A Great Bag

The biggest mistake you can make when it comes to bags is purchasing the “it bag”. Don’t do it. It is a trap and a waste of money. Have fun when accessorizing with a bag. Find a shape, texture, and color you love. You don’t need to purchase the “it-bag”. Rock the bag that best describes YOU! (And don’t spend too much 😉

What is your style? STYLE QUIZ!

Posted on April 7, 2019April 7, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Hey there! Ready to find out your personal style? I have found knowing my personal style to be extremely helpful when shopping for new clothes. Your personal style tells more than what you enjoy wearing, it tells who you are and how you strut your stuff! What style best describes you? Find out by answering these simple questions! Spoiler, my personal style is whimsical. Doesn’t surprise me 😉

1. If we opened your closet, what color palette would we mostly see?

basics, such as navy, white, khaki, charcoal, or brown
black and neutrals
a rainbow of colors
earth tones
black with touches of bold color

2. How would your friends describe you?

traditional and proper
sharp and direct
playful and spirited
relaxed and liberal
innovative and forward-thinking

3. Given a chance, which would you rather do?

get comfortable in khakis, a collared shirt, and your cutest loafers
put on a sleek V-neck top and modern-cut pant
step out in a fun floral dress or bright mixed prints
throw on a pair of jeans, T-shirt with funky accessories
grab your favorite jacket with interesting and unusual details to wear with a black pant

4. If someone gave you $500 for clothes, how would you use it?

buy a couple outfits at J.Crew or Banana Republic
spend it on a cashmere wrap
splurge on anything that catches your eye
add to your accessories collection with a slouchy suede bag
buy a dress that makes you feel smart and unique

5. When you walk into a crowded room, what would you prefer to do?

blend in
be in control, exude power
be animated
seem natural and easygoing
make a statement

6. When you have the urge (or need) to go shopping, you are more likely to do which of the following?

purchase practical basics for all seasons
buy high-quality, smart pieces that are sure to be in style
get something with a splash of color to brighten your day
head to the flea market for some great “lived-in” and funky finds
find that unusual piece to add to your wardrobe that no one else will have

7. What is your go-to coat like?

straight and sleek
sharp and powerful, perhaps boxy
romantic with a flared princess cut
an easy and flowy cape
edgy and asymmetrical

8. When you flip through pages of fashion magazines, which is most likely to catch your eye?

a Ralph Lauren lifestyle ad
that little black dress in the “special occasion” section
stacked bangles
wide brim hats and denim
a story on the new designers from Tokyo and Belgium

9. Which of the following best describes the decor of your home?

comfortable and traditional (think Ralph Lauren)
streamlined, tonal, with clean surfaces (think Tom Ford)
fun, kitschy, and unorthodox (think Alice in Wonderland)
lots of rugs, earth tone, and floral prints (think 70s)
minimalist, architectural, and sculptural (think modernist, futuristic)

10. What is your favorite handbag like?

a tote with initials (think Goyard)
a minimalist tote in neutrals (think Celine)
a leather tote with studs and embellishments, or a pop of color (think
Alaia) a backpack or a worn-in leather bag, perhaps with fringe (think Balenciaga or Chloe)
a black statement clutch, perhaps with python or alligator skin (think Margiela or Maiyet)

Results

Score: Add up all of the numbers next to the answers you selected. Whatever your score is will tell us a little bit about your personal style! Click on the links to see a fashion guide tailored to your personal style!

10-17| You are CLASSIC.

If you’re CLASSIC, you like simple, clean, and traditional pieces. You like to go for a timeless look because the silhouette and colors hardly change. It’s always ladylike, and classy. Absolutely timeless.

18-26|You are CHIC.

If you are CHIC, your style is defined by a powerful look and sharp lines that seem to come together in an effortless way. It is often monochromatic and combined with bold accessories. You enjoy simplicity while looking fierce.

27-35|You are WHIMSICAL.

Whimsical style is playful and appears to be “thrown together” but is actually a thoughtful combination of lovely colors and patterns. If you’re whimsical, you’re usually young at heart and your look is free-spirited and romantic.

36-42|You are BOHEMIAN.

BOHEMIAM style is relaxed, funky, and incorporates offbeat accessories and usually lots of denim and suede. You are artsy! This look emphasizes natural fabrics and earthy tones. This is the go-to festival style. You enjoy bringing out your inner hippie.

43-50|You are AVANT-GARDE.

AVANT-GARDE is an ultramodern style that uses fashion as an extension of your creativity. It often seeks to make a dramatic statement. Hey, we love drama here in the fashion world. You like to stretch the boundaries. Typically, the foundation for this wardrobe is black, black, and more black.

Do you want to have Personal Growth? Focus on These 8 Things

Posted on March 31, 2019March 31, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Get your eyes off yourself.

Wait, this doesn’t make sense? I want to have personal growth, but not focus on myself? YEP! We are way too consumed with ourselves. The first step in personal growth is taking your eyes off of yourself. Stop thinking about all the things you want, the way you wish you looked, and just all that selfish stuff. Write it all down, crumple the paper, and throw it away. Growth start from a clean slate.

What are your goals? Are they realistic?

One of the worst feelings is setting a goal and not achieving it. It’s awful. So, take a step back and reconsider your goals. Are you setting the bar so high that you can’t achieve it? This will only bring us down. Set goals that are small and attainable. No, that doesn’t mean you aren’t pushing yourself. YOU ARE! After reaching a slightly smaller goal, set the bar a tad higher…and higher and higher. Growth comes from a SMALL seed, not a full-grown flower!

Who are you surrounding yourself with?

Think about your friends. Think about the people you spend the most time around. Are they the kind of person you want to be? If yes, then you’ve got some wonderful friends and people to look up to. If not…it’s time to start looking for new influences. No, you don’t need to cut your BFF out of your life, but you may want to consider surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, push you, encourage you, and positively influence you. Your vibe attracts your tribe!

Put away your self-pride & learn from others

Yes, it’s not always easy to ask for help. We never want to admit that we need help. But we do…all the time. The only way to start growing is by admitting you are imperfect and seek guidance. Asking for help should be celebrated not looked down upon! If you want to achieve what someone else has achieved, ask them. Seek help. Asking for help allows you to take two steps forward. Whereas not asking for help keeps you stuck in the mud and stops growth from occurring. You are a seed and you need help from water to grow. It’s essential.

Start loving others first. You will love yourself more.

I am not the biggest advocate for “self love! self love!” There is nothing wrong with it…But when I spend too much trying to love myself, it just puts my focus back on “me me me.” Loving ourselves will never really allow us to fully feel loved. The feeling of being loved will not come from yourself, it will come from others. So, by focusing on loving other people, you are going to receive real, lasting love in return.

Start valuing the lessons you learned from your mistakes

Failing the first time is the best. Well, afterward. Because when you fail or make a mistake the first time, you can learn from it, change your approach and try again. It is truly a beautiful thing. Okay, I have another flower metaphor…When a gardener plants a flower and it doesn’t grow, the gardener doesn’t just sit there and wait, or keep trying the same method over and over again. The gardener starts back at square one and takes a new approach until the flower grows.

Stop trying to make things go “your way”

I think something we are all guilty of is being fussy when things do not go our way. I have realized that growth comes from letting go of control, and fully submitting yourself to the process of growth. Do not go against the process…let things happen on there own. Whatever is always meant to be will be. The gardener has to trust that the sun will come up each morning, not force it to come up each. The gardener lets go of control and trusts that the sun will come up.

Grab an accountability partner.

As humans beings, we are not made to do life on our own. We are made to do life together. We need each other. What I have learned is that when I am trying to grow in a certain area, having someone I trust to hold me accountable and check on me is essential. It helps so much. It’s easy to give up when you are alone. But when you have someone to push you and encourage you is what enhances beautiful growth. Yes, a flower can grow on it own, but it needs a gardener to protect it. and make sure it’s growing in the right direction.

9 FREE things to do in Athens while the weather is WARM!

Posted on March 24, 2019March 24, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Hi everyone! The warm weather and sunshine is upon us! I can feel it coming…now we just need to get it to stay! 🙂 Anytime the sun is shining I try to go outside and make the most of the beautiful weather. I have discovered many wonderful, relaxing, and enjoyable activities to do here on campus while the sun is shining. There is no better way to escape from the pressure of school than with a little vitamin D. Getting out in nature is not only good for your body, but it’s good for the soul. I sound like a hippie now…but I am serious!

Here are 10 free things to do this spring!

Picnic with your people

How perfect is laying on a blanket in the grass, eating some yummy treats, listening to music, and hanging with your best friends? This activity is effortless, easy, and you can customize it to however you like! Nothing beats a picnic in the sunshine.

Walk on the bike trail

If you don’t have a bike…I’m sure there is someone around that would be happy to lend you theirs! You can even borrow mine. Going for a bike ride is so good for the soul. You get to clear your mind, enjoy the fresh air, and get a good workout!

Sit on the balcony of Front Room coffee

Front Room has the most beautiful balcony. There is an amazing view of campus and they have nice comfortable lounge chairs. Back in the fall, I fell asleep on one of the couches right there in the sunshine. It was AMAZING! I will definitely be taking more naps there this spring!

Cross the bridge and venture to the other side of the river

There is a beautiful river that wraps around campus. Attached to the bike trail there is a bridge that crosses over the river and it is gorgeous! I have never gone to the other side of the river, but I think I am going to venture over to the other side this spring!

Hocking Hills

Hocking Hills is gorgeous! First of all, it’s FREE and second of all, it’s GORGEOUS! There are so many amazing hiking trails, cliffs, and breathtaking sights to see.

Strouds Run State Park

I have never been here before, but I hear amazing things! It’s super close to campus which is very convenient. I am definitely going to make a trip there!

Grab a frisbee, soccer ball, or football and start playing!

For me, it’s usually a soccer ball! Getting in the sunshine, teaming up with your friends, and playing some games is my go to! It is so much fun to have a little friendly competition!

Sidewalk Chalk

Okay, so you may have to pay a few dollars for some chalk…but it will last you for a while! Go make the world beautiful and color everywhere!

Tie-dye shirts

Again, you may have to pay for the dye supplies…but it will last you! Tie-dying is one of my favorite things to do! It’s a fun way to get crafty and colorful!

Spring Fashion Across the Globe

Posted on March 18, 2019March 18, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Have you ever wondered what fashion is like around the world? What styles have we collected from other countries? Or, what styles have we shared? Fashion is constantly changing worldwide. Fashion designers say that there are 52 seasons rather than four because there are new trends and styles emerging every single week! This is a worldwide phenomenon! Let’s take a look at what some other countries’ fashionistas are wearing this spring!

India

I am loving some of the fun patterns and textures! That brown peasant top is one of my favs!

Japan

I am obsessed with the chic blazer look. So sophisticated and classy.

France

Loving the different shades of pink & hair accessories!

Spain

Animal prints are the move over in Spain! I am obsessed!!

South Africa

Clean, fresh, and classy. These looks from South Africa are certainly some of my favorites!

This Spring is Scarves

Posted on March 3, 2019March 3, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Scarves are back and they are everywhere! I am loving this trend. I remember as a kid I always wanted to have super long hair like Rapunzel. I would tie long, flowy scarves around my ponytail and pretend it was my hair. Of course, the thin, floral scarf trend went away for a while…but it is popping back up in unique new ways! Stores are already promoting their looks for this spring and retro, silk, brightly colored, and floral scarves are definitely trending.

This trend has been a go-to for me. Tying a silk scarf around my hair feels playful, elegant, and unique. I AM LOVING IT! Here are a few ways to style your scarf this spring!

Around your neck

It doesn’t have to be cold out for you to accessorize with a scarf around your neck.

Try tying it loosely around the neck
Tie it tighter and higher
Tie it bandit style for a more Coachella vibe!

In your hair

Maybe you are like me and love pretending to have long flowy hair…try tying a scarf around your ponytail, or around a top knot bun. You can be extra fancy and try braiding it into your hair. This looks SO cute and bohemian.

Here are two scarves and two hairstyles I have been loving, and my adorable friend with the braid! 🙂

On your purse

I think this looks so chic! I saw this many time on the runway. Grab a simple purse, and add some texture by tying a scarf around one of the handles. This adds such femininity and elegance.

As a headband

For some reason, Spring is always the time I enjoy wearing headbands, especially floral! There is just something so fun about throwing in a cute hair accessory to freshen and brighten up the look! I think the warm weather plays a part in this 😉

Can YOGA change your life?

Posted on February 24, 2019February 24, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Are you a fitness queen? Do you enjoy pumping the iron? Maybe you’d rather cozy up on the couch, enjoy a good book, or do some journaling. Maybe you actually run for the hills when you hear the word cardio? (pun intended;) No matter who you are, or what you enjoy doing, we all like to clear our minds. Many of us have a special hobby we enjoy that really allows us to escape. Well, what if there was a thing you could do to get in a really good workout, but clear your mind and relax at the same time…oh wait…THERE IS! YOGA!

Since the beginning of the spring semester, I began doing 20 minutes of yoga each morning before class. I have NEVER done yoga before this semester. I have always been too intimidated to try. But wow, I wish I tried it out earlier! I absolutely love it! I downloaded a free app called “Lotus Yoga.” I just tap one of the videos on my phone, lay out my yoga mat, and go for it. The lady on the video tells me just what to do! After just 3 days of doing morning yoga, I had noticed a HUGE difference in my day. I am here to share with you the instant, life-changing benefits of 20 minute morning (or evening) yoga.

Stress Reduction

This was huge for me. I am the kind of person who gets stressed out pretty easily. Whether it’s homework, exams, and just normal anxiety…I just stress myself out over little things. Doing 20 minutes of yoga in the morning has COMPLETELY lowered my stress. I feel so relaxed and much more capable of completing my tasks.

Mental Clarity

Yoga has given me amazing mental clarity. When I do yoga in the morning, my mind is set free. It feels like I am giving my brain a reset. All the yucky stuff from the day before that clouds my brain is released. I feel so refreshed and my mind thinks so much more clearly. I kid you not…I remember things more since I began doing yoga.

Reduced lower back pain

I have always had a pretty weak back. My back used to hurt all…the…time…Until I started doing yoga I never realized how much tension I held in my lower back. Doing yoga has allowed me to stretch out the muscles in my back that I didn’t even know existed. Let me tell you…it feels AMAZING.

An overall happier/ more joyful mood

I would be lying if I said starting yoga hasn’t made me a happier, more joyful person. Because it has! My mind is free, I am working my muscles, becoming stronger, and creating peace in my heart and mind. The happiness I feel during yoga carries throughout my entire day. It’s just so wonderful!

Positive body image

Body image has always been a bit of a struggle for me. When I don’t workout I feel bad about my body…and when I do workout I just compare myself to the other girls working out. With yoga, I am working out, taking great care of my body, and I don’t compare myself to anyone because my mind is free from those thoughts. Yoga has allowed me to feel more confident in my own skin. I have gratitude for the strong, healthy, unique body I have been given.

I hope you try yoga too! I’m serious just 20 minutes…Download Lotus Yoga, stream a video, and start yoga-ing! I have a feeling you will love it and love all of the life-changing benefits. So to answer the title question, “Can YOGA change your life?” The answer is yes! It certainly can. You just have to be willing to give it a try:)

What is Athens wearing this month? -February 2019

Posted on February 17, 2019February 17, 2019 by Annalise Zink

What is currently trending here in Athens? The current trends and fads are being broadcast everywhere we turn. But what are people really wearing? What is really trending on the streets? What styles are we sporting here in Athens? I wanted to find out. I took a nice long walk in the sunshine to see what is in style. I ventured all around campus and saw some magnificent looks! If you saw some weird girl staring at your shoes…that was probably me! I am here to share with you the styles that are popping here in Athens!

These are the four themes I saw the most!

Fluffy & Cozy

I saw so many people fighting against the cold weather with lots of fuzzy and furry pieces! I saw so many UGG moccasins, sherpa coats and duck boots. Comfy and cute…my kind of look!

Grungy Kicks

Grungy sneakers are everywhere! I saw so many pairs of clunky sneakers, black vans and lots of Converse. I love the edgy vibe! We are a bunch of artsy street kids here in Athens!

Sporty Spice

Many people dress sporty for class! I love it! I saw lots of Adidas tennis shoes, big sweatshirts and track pants. I love this trend! It’s an easy way to look cute and put together, but also super comfy!

Bold Colors

Who doesn’t love a pop of color!? Something that was definitely trending was bright bold colors! Everywhere I looked I saw a bright pop! Whether it was a puffy coat, a beanie, sneakers or bright pants…Athens is showing off their colorfulness! I love it!

All photos are from Unsplash Photos🙂 xo

11 ways to ENJOY your Valentines Day!

Posted on February 11, 2019February 11, 2019 by Annalise Zink

The media has Valentines Day all wrong. Valentines Day is not a day just for people who have a significant other. It is a day for people to celebrate someone they love! We all have people in our life that we love. We can’t help it! It’s in our nature to love others. Maybe it’s your best friend, a boyfriend or girlfriend, or a family member…love is not limited to having a romance with one person. Valentines Day is about ALL the people you love and showing them your appreciation. On the flip side…YOU ARE LOVED! Remembering that you are loved is all the more reason to celebrate! I encourage you to take a look at some of these fun ways to enjoy this wonderful day and spread some love.

Compliment as many people as you can

The warm feeling you get when you make someone smile is indescribable. I know when I receive a compliment it can turn my whole day around! You never know how great a simple smile and word of affirmation could impact someone’s day. By spreading love to others I guarantee you will feel that love right back in return.

Go workout

Nothing beats the empowerment you feel after a good sweat! I know I feel like a total boss woman! Get the gang together and grind it out! Maybe even try a new workout. Yoga, cardio,. dance, Zumba, weights…the possibilities are endless!

Give yourself a little pampering

Ah, a face mask, candle burning, music playing, sipping some tea…what is better than this? Life is hectic. It’s busy. You are working hard all the time…enjoy some self love time by treating yourself to something you normally wouldn’t get to enjoy. Get a hair cut, enjoy your favorite meal, paint a picture, or do your nails. Do something you LOVE!

STAY OFF SOCIAL MEDIA

This is crucial. It is so easy to compare our lives to other’s while we scroll through social media. We lose track of how much time we waste looking at others and comparing ourselves. Turn in off. Log out. I know that is not always the easiest thing to do…but the feeling of enjoying yourself, and your people, and simply being present mentally is far better than any Instagram picture or Snapchat story.

Get the squad together

There are endless possibilities of fun things to do when you round up the people you love. Grab your besties, go out for a fancy dinner, or enjoy a home cooked meal and a movie, go bowling, play games, go shopping…I could go on and on. Any activity is more enjoyable when you are with your peeps!

Have a chocolate taste testing fest

Maybe you are feeling boujee. Go to CVS or any dollar store…buy a little box of chocolates, get your friends together and having a chocolate tasting night. I did this one year with my girlfriends and we had so much fun! We lined up the little chocolates on a fancy plate, sipped our sparkling apple juice and had the most enjoyable night!

Have a date night with your favorite movie star

Is there a movie star you are obsessed with? (cough-cough Liam Hemsworth). Well, enjoy a date night with your favorite celeb by watching all your favorite movies that they are in!

Bake something YUMMY

I think I am limited to microwavable cake in a cup in my dorm room…but whether you have a kitchen or not Pinterest is the hotspot for thousands of delicious and easy recipes! Test your baking skills and make a yummy treat! Make a mess too! It’s more fun that way.

Enjoy a little self- reflection time

During the busy week, I sometimes find it difficult to sit down and reflect on myself. Take some time to reflect. What are your goals? Where do you want to see yourself in a year? What have you accomplished over the past month? Keep a journal and start writing!

Give little “I love you” notes to the people you love!

There are boxes of little valentines and “I love you” notes at The Dollar Tree for only $1. It hardly costs anything to spread some love! Give one to your besties, a teacher, a mentor, or maybe leave it anonymously for someone to pick up. Love is a gift…and it is up to us to spread it!

“Love is not only something you feel, it is something you do.”
-David Wilkerson

Healthy (and yummy) Chocolate Peanut butter Cookie Recipe

Posted on February 3, 2019February 3, 2019 by Annalise Zink

Do you ever feel a little bit guilty while indulging in a gooey chocolate chip cookie? I know I do. Of course, we all need cheat days, but wouldn’t it be easier to enjoy a cookie without making it a cheat day? I have the recipe for you! While hunting around on Pinterest, I was inspired by many different recipes for healthy (yet delicious) cookies. I decided to get creative and now I want to share! Lately, I have really been into baking and finding unique ways to eat healthily.

First off, I think bananas are amazing. I love them. They have a natural sweetness to them that you can’t find anywhere else. There are so many yummy treats you can make with bananas! I’m certainly not a nutritionist, but I know a banana has countless health benefits. They are great for your heart, loaded with fiber, and make an excellent sweet treat. It’s a win win win. These cookies are loaded with protein and are the perfect post or pre-workout snack & this recipe requires only 5 ingredients (less or more depending on how you want to make it your own) and only takes 15 minutes to make! I am not very particular about measurements…I am a pretty free-spirited person, therefore I just throw things in until it tastes yummy. I encourage you to throw in your ingredients based on what you think is needed! I hope you enjoy!

Also, for the lovely vegans out there, if you swap out the chocolate chips and protein powder in the ingredients list for vegan-friendly chocolate chips and protein powder you are all set! This can be easily made into a plant-based sweet treat!

Ingredients:

2 Bananas
1 scoop chocolate protein powder
A handful of chocolate chips
1/2 cup quick oats
1 big spoon scoop crunchy (or smooth…whatever you are feeling) peanut butter…AND THAT’S ALL!

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350
Mash up bananas until paste-like
Add oats
Mix it all together (…and you know that it’s the best of both worlds…get it?)
Add protein powder, peanut butter, and chocolate chips
Mix Mix Mix
Grease pan
Scoop dough and shape them roughly 2 inches in diameter. Don’t shape them into balls like normal cookies. When they bake, they will not spread out or change shape at all. The way you form them on the pan is exactly the way they will bake.
Put in oven for 10-11 mins.
Take out & let cool for just a few minutes
ENJOY!