MANDI’S MOST WANTED: Summer Shopping
I’m so excited to shop for summer clothes this year! In the past I’ve dreaded this season that most gals welcome with their bare, open arms. As sad as this is (and as much as I HATE to admit this), I didn’t like baring my body more than I had to. But this year, I’ve been committed to getting fit and have already lost 20 pounds. What?! My time in the weight room has given me an extra dose of confidence, too.
Because of the weight loss, shopping for new clothes is actually a necessity for me this summer, as most of what I own is becoming increasingly big. A problem I’m not really used to, but will gladly accept! It’s been pretty difficult narrowing down all of my favorites to an affordable list that will work for most occasions, and while I plan to buy some basic black and white tops and bottoms, I want to have a little fun too. Here are my favorite Summer finds that I think will be a lot of fun to wear once these Ohio days grow warmer.
- Denim color block romper
- Orange jumpsuit
- Cateye sunglasses
- Pink pleated dress
- Stiff brimmed straw hat
- Grey striped jumpsuit
- Wide brimmed straw hat
- Orange flower hair clips
- Gingham strappy top
- High waisted wide leg jeans
- White body suit
- High waisted mom jean shorts
- Pierced leather sandals
- White Birkenstocks
- Round sunglasses
Hi Mandi! I love the pieces you chose- especially the white Birkenstocks. I am desperately trying to lose weight, 20 lbs would be a great achievement for me (ideally, I’d like to lose about 40 to be in a healthier range). Can you offer any suggestions on diet/ exercise that you have found helpful? I know everyone is different, but I still thought I would ask. Thank you!
I spend about 10-12 hours in the gym every week doing a combination of cardio (running, elliptical, or stair climber) and weight lifting. I do a three day split, focusing on legs one day, shoulders biceps and triceps another day, and back and chest another day. I got my workout from bodybuilding.com, and have been following the weight lifting routine for 3 months. Most weeks I spend 6 days in the gym, with one rest day and also a nice cheat day where I eat whatever I want. On the other six days I try to eat around 1600 calories, focusing on a high protein content for my meals. I like to eat greek yogurt with muesli and fruit, egg whites with salsa, chicken with veggies like broccoli, brussel sprouts, and sweet potatoes, and also green smoothies with egg white protein powder added. I drink a mix of chocolate pea protein and almond milk after every single time in the weight room. So far it’s going well and having a gym with excellent childcare and hours has been super helpful. It’s the only time I get “me time,” so it’s very motivating for me to go. :) I hope all those ideas have been helpful for you! It’s what’s been working for me.
Thank you, Mandy! That is very helpful!
Congrats on making real headway on your goal! It feels so good to have an idea, make a plan, and really tackle it. I’m so glad you get to experience it!
I hope you get that pink dress. It is so homina homina homina.
I love all these clothes! Thanks for the weight loss inspiration. I have an 8 month old baby girl and and I’m now starting to hit the gym. Hope I am as successful as you!