As I sit here typing this post, I am already feeling a strong mix of vulnerability and total kick-ass-ness (that’s the vino talking I’m sure). With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching tomorrow, I thought today would be the perfect time to get super personal…so here goes nothing!
My Valentine’s Day this year is going to be slightly different than years past and by different, I mean I will be celebrating Galentine’s Day in all its glory. My boyfriend and I – whom you’ve heard plenty about here on Fashionably Lo – broke up a few weeks ago. Before you ask, I’m doing okay. And before you ask again, that’s kind of a lie. Sure, it is probably one of the hardest things I’ve gone through (ever!) but at the same time, it’s something that I think we are both at peace with. Long story short, this is something that we both knew was coming and while I will not say it has been a (tear-less) walk in the park, I am really proud of how we both have been handling it. We’ve been dating since we were 15 so there are over 10+ years of memories that will always bond us together in a way I will probably never share with anyone else – and to be honest, that’s what gives me the “cup half full” approach as I move forward with my life.
I won’t go into the details because this is not The Bachelor and we don’t need any more crazy drama in our lives but I will say, a breakup (especially with so much history) is the perfect way to shock you back to reality. Realizing now that I will be single (gasp), living alone (double gasp) and missing the guy that has been my best friend for over a decade, it’s safe to say that I might understand what the whole quarter life crisis thing is about. The best thing though is that I’ve had the most amazing support from my family & friends throughout the whole thing and I can honestly say I’m excited to set out on this new journey.
And that’s where today’s post comes in. You might be wondering why I am all dolled up in the sexiest red dress I own, trotting around with flowers and the cutest pup ever. Well, because this year I am taking the day of love & cupid and flipping it to celebrate and love myself. Not in a creepy, narcissistic, Juan Pablo way – but in a way that celebrates how each and every one of us should love ourselves (single or not): fully and unconditionally. Taking the time out to appreciate the things that make me happiest and the best version of Lauren is a refreshing and tad bit confusing undertaking but I have enjoyed every bit of it over the last few weeks. And it’s a process that is going to continue on way past tomorrow – so bear with me!
…well that’s that. I might not have any cute DIY ideas or Vday inspired looks to share, but I hope that maybe something I said in today’s post resonated with you. Whether you are single or married or dating a handsome model – take a part of tomorrow to celebrate & love you.
Happy early Vday, yall!
[The Details]
Dress: ASOS | Heels: Nordstrom | Lips: NARS Fire Down Below | Ring: c/o Kendra Scott
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Hi Lauren, this is my first time leaving a comment even though I’ve been reading your blog for a while now. I want you to know how very courageous you are for letting go and want to assure you that your best is yet to come. It’s not going to be easy because you have to put a brave smile on your face to cheer others and yourself up but keep smiling. The best kind of love will come when you least expect it. Happy V-day!
thank you so much for your sweet words!!
aww sorry to hear that, lo, hope you’re doing OK! if you’re ever in need of a girl’s night in (or out haha) lemme know!!!
xo, coco | millennielle.com
Lauren! I’m sorry to hear about you and George but this post just gave me more of a confirmation to love myself and put me first!! Although me and “you know who” didn’t have as many years on us (5 years to your 15) as you and George it was still a little difficult dealing with the break up. But I’m happier than I’ve ever been (minus the occasional bs I have to deal with) and you’ll get to the point where you’re just as happy and okay! 20’s are our selfish years and trust me it’s okay to be a little selfish! Don’t settle until you get what you know you deserve! I wish you nothing but the best! Hopefully we’ll run into each other again without the guys! 🙂
Alia and Noah!
Love this post so much! You are a really great writer and that definitely shines through in this post. I have been where you are. I ended a 4 year relationship when I was 25 and felt so lost. But as you know, it was clearly for the best and I couldn’t be happier with where I am now. I’m so glad you’re staying positive and I have to agree that you seem to be handling it in the best way. What you already realize about the relationship is something most people take years (if ever) to realize. Cheers to you and I can’t wait to celebrate Galentine’s Day with you tomorrow!! Love you, Lauren!!
xo Megan, Lush to Blush
Oh, I almost forgot. DAAAAAAAAYUMN (2 syllable damn). I’m obsessed with these photos and this look!!
Love love this look!!! & that dress is as gorgeous as you!!!
Such a well-written post! This dress is incredible and you look beautiful, Lauren!
Heidi
http://www.wishesandreality.com
You look absolutely beautiful! That is such a perfect dress for Valentine’s Day! x
Lauren,
Thank you for being honest. I love an honesty post, sometimes we don’t concentrate on the realness of a lifestyle blog. I appreciate when people are vulnerable on their blogs.
First of all you look beautiful! But you are right, as women “me time” is something that gets pushed to the back burner. We are so selfless and consumed that we forget about ourselves, it’s seems so natural. Our relationship and the love we have with ourselves is what should be fostered the most – I know easier said than done. Once the obligations of life kicks in we loss sight of ME and try to balance the world on our shoulders. Take this time to make it all about you. Grieve and feel every feeling that comes with heartbreak because we have that physical and mental pain for a reason. You owe it to yourself to cry, smile, eat ice cream, watch Netflix, be in bed all day because that’s what Lauren needs. Don’t dismiss how you feel because that’s what will make you the women you’re meant to be.
You will grow and flourish from these moment. Sorry for the long message but I wanted to share! Keep up your amazing work with Fashionably Lo. Being able to say goodbye takes more courage and strength then people think. Thank you again for sharing.
Best,
Courtney
believe-instyle.com
Wow Courtney. Thank you so much!
Aww that almost made me cry. You are super strong though. Just keep on forging ahead and you will be fine. And you look beautiful!
wow lovely
This is such a beautiful dress, very classic!
I must say you have done a tremendous preparation for valentine’s day….no matter who it is for. Actually I wish I was 30 years younger, you would not only be smothered with more roses to offset that beautiful dress, but you would be treated to a very nice place to wear it. And if you can’t love yourself..how can anyone else love you?
Just keep going young lady.
Wow you look elegant and amazing. It really fits you well..