“
Consider the fact that maybe…just maybe…beauty and worth aren’t found in a makeup bottle, or a salon-fresh hairstyle, or a fabulous outfit. Maybe our sparkle comes from somewhere deeper inside, somewhere so pure and authentic and REAL, it doesn’t need gloss or polish or glitter to shine.
”
”
Mandy Hale (The Single Woman–Life, Love, and a Dash of Sass: Embracing Singleness with Confidence)
“
In an era where women undress their outfits & give their bodies so carelessly, become the rare wild woman that undresses her mind and soul & knows the worth of what she has to offer.
”
”
Nikki Rowe
“
Take care of your costume and your confidence will take care of itself.
”
”
Amit Kalantri (Wealth of Words)
“
With right fashion, every female would be a flame.
”
”
Amit Kalantri (Wealth of Words)
“
Fashion doesn't make you perfect, but it makes you pretty.
”
”
Amit Kalantri (Wealth of Words)
“
It's time to shop high heels if your fiance kisses you on the forehead.
”
”
Amit Kalantri (Wealth of Words)
“
Any girl with a grin never looks grim.
”
”
Amit Kalantri (Wealth of Words)
“
Dresses don't look beautiful on hangers.
”
”
Amit Kalantri (Wealth of Words)
“
Dresses won't worn out in the wardrobe, but that is not what dresses are designed for.
”
”
Amit Kalantri (Wealth of Words)
“
Stop wearing someone else’s expectations and judgments. That outfit never looks good on anyone.
”
”
Jamie Erickson (Homeschool Bravely: How to Squash Doubt, Trust God, and Teach Your Child with Confidence)
“
I'll lend you my confidence boosting CD set," she would say if I alluded to any concern or worry . . .
Every few weeks, she had a whole new paradigm for living, and I had to hear about it. "Get good at knowing when you're tired," she'd advised me once. "Too many women wear themselves thin these days." A lifestyle tip from Get the Most Out of Your Day, Ladies included the suggestion to preplan your outfits for the workweek on Sunday evenings.
"That way you won't be second-guessing yourself in the morning."
I really hated when she talked like that.
”
”
Ottessa Moshfegh (My Year of Rest and Relaxation)
“
We buy items that we only half like because they are on sale or a “good deal.” •We wear clothes that are so uncomfortable we need to take them off as soon as we get home. •We keep items that stopped fitting years ago just in case they fit again someday. •We wear shoes that we can hardly walk in and that leave our feet covered in blisters. •We force ourselves to wear pieces that we feel only so-so about because they were expensive and we don’t want to let that “investment” go to waste. •We wear worn-out, scruffy pieces around the house and hope nobody is going to stop by unannounced. •We wear clothes that ride up and tug in all the wrong places. •We wear outfits that don’t make us feel confident or inspired because we simply don’t have anything better in our wardrobe.
”
”
Anuschka Rees (The Curated Closet: A Simple System for Discovering Your Personal Style and Building Your Dream Wardrobe)
“
He loved me, but I also think he was infatuated with somebody in me I wasn't so crazy about. If Nate was the one who saw Kate Pierson underneath my grubby disaffect when we met, David tried to strip away all of Kate's lovely lashes and wigs and iridescent outfits to reveal what he was confident was the mousy, wide-eyed ragamuffin little girl that he wanted to love me as, and who he wanted me to be.
”
”
Julie Klausner
“
Two women at the same event wearing the same outfit is a disaster. But two women at the same event singing the same song is a party. And two women at the same event talking about Doris from Fame is a friendship for life. Fill yourself with words, choruses, and heroes, like you're supposed to fill your wardrobe with shoes, brooches, and belts.
”
”
Caitlin Moran (Moranifesto)
“
Carol wants to get some new clothes,” Nancy explained. “Want to help?” “You bet!” Bess and George answered. When the store closed that evening, the four girls left it chatting merrily and laden with bundles. Carol had been outfitted from head to toe in attractive clothes. Her hair had been trimmed and modishly combed at the beauty salon. She looked very lovely and seemed to have gained self-confidence.
”
”
Carolyn Keene (The Sign of the Twisted Candles (Nancy Drew, #9))
“
When I first envisioned myself running, I saw myself as Jodie Foster’s Clarice Starling in the opening scenes of The Silence of the Lambs. So strong, so focused, so proud. She is utterly confident, completely single-minded about her training run across a terrifying assault course. At one point she runs past a tree with the sign HURT AGONY PAIN LOVE IT stapled to it. She doesn’t care what she looks like; she has shit to do, and she is going to get it done. And yet . . . she is wearing a phenomenally impractical outfit. She is in a heavy cotton sweatshirt and tracksuit bottoms and is drenched in sweat. The top is sticking to both her chest and back and looks painfully heavy. She is summoned by a colleague and heads inside past a roomful of people dressed in khaki, faffing around with guns, and then gets into an elevator. All in the heavy, damp cotton. That wet fabric must have gotten incredibly cold the minute she stopped running, and it bothers me whenever I think of the poor woman in that meeting. For years the scene was my running inspiration, yet now I am unable to watch the first hour of the film without worrying about whether Clarice is shivering from the horrors of Hannibal Lecter or because she caught a dreadful chill.
”
”
Alexandra Heminsley (Running Like a Girl: Notes on Learning to Run)
“
quickly Franklin folded the owlish John Adams into his debilitating rounds, sweeping him off to meet the la Rochefoucauld family in their baronial home. He did so before Adams yet felt appropriately outfitted for any kind of Parisian outing. That anxiety would underline the difference between the two envoys, one of them self-conscious about his attire, the other confident that fashion would follow him, both of whom were right.
”
”
Stacy Schiff (A Great Improvisation: Franklin, France, and the Birth of America)
“
We flew gracefully between the complicated lattice of trusses like a pair of nymphs. Add our sexy outfits and transparent metallite alloy spacesuits to our naturally good looks, and you can see what I mean, can't you? I was swept with an overwhelming confidence in how beautiful I must look. That's it! It wasn't that we felt things were going too easily. The fact was, we were frustrated that there wasn't anyone around to admire us.
”
”
Haruka Takachiho (The Great Adventure of the Dirty Pair (The Dirty Pair, #1))
“
Has someone made you feel shame for taking selfies? For daring to believe so much in your beauty, in your style, in your badassery, in your joy, in your body, in your sensuality, in your humanity that you'd be so audacious, so bold, so (insert judgmental word of choice here) to want to witness and be witnessed for who and what you are. ⠀
⠀
Has someone out there sold you their own truth that this is conceited or narcissistic or superficial? How dare you think so much of yourself that you stop to take a photo?⠀
⠀
Forget. those. people. ⠀
⠀
Seriously. You are worthy of capture. Of celebration. Of admiration. You are worthy of being seen and witnessed. Of being looked at with awe and with joy. Just as you are, right now. All made up and wearing the outfit that makes you feel like you can take on the world or just waking up in bed, bare skin and messy hair and eyes hazy with dreams. ⠀
⠀
Here's the thing. Self-portraiture in art is as old as time. We are fascinated with the visible proof of our own existence, our own reality, and for damn good reason. We are infinite and complex and ever changing. We are majestic and mundane. Self-portraits, regardless of the medium, offer us a way to capture ourselves at a specific moment in time. ⠀
⠀
For me, this is an act of self-love. Of self-honoring. Of owning myself as beautiful and sovereign. It is the way I learned to look at myself without needing to look away. It is how I learned to trace the lines of my own being with the sort of admiration I used to reserve for others, for those I loved or for rarified celebrities I never thought I could live up to. ⠀
⠀
When I stop to take a photo of myself, it is a way to say that I am here. I have something to say that can't be spoken in words. It might be deep and poetic, or maybe I just damn well love my outfit and think you should see it. And that yes, it is a way to say I want to be seen and I no longer hold shame in that wanting.
”
”
Jeanette LeBlanc
“
International trade seems to be the topic of the night, but there are a few differentiations—one talk is about the newest tax codes and how they can better benefit corporations. Snore. Another presents a variation on an old business model. It’s an original idea, but not practical. By the time the fifth student finishes, I’ve met my limit. I nudge Celia out of her reverie. “I’m ready to go,” I begin to say, but stop myself before I get the words out. The woman ascending the stairs to the stage has caught my eye, and all thoughts of leaving disappear. Something about the way she moves is captivating—the wiggle of her hips suggests an undercurrent of sexuality, and her back is straight with confidence. Then she turns toward the audience, and my breathe catches. Even here, twelve rows away, I can tell she’s the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen. Her dark brown hair falls just so around her face, accentuating sharp cheekbones. Her eyes are dark. Her short dress reveals long, lean legs. The modest cleavage of her outfit can’t hide perfectly plump tits. There’s something else—something about her carriage that makes me sit up and take notice. And she hasn’t even spoken yet.
”
”
Laurelin Paige (Hudson (Fixed, #4))
“
Fatigue has built up after all this training, and I can’t seem to run very fast. As I’m leisurely jogging along the Charles River, girls who look to be new Harvard freshmen keep on passing me. Most of these girls are small, slim, have on maroon Harvard-logo outfits, blond hair in a ponytail, and brand-new iPods, and they run like the wind. You can definitely feel a sort of aggressive challenge emanating from them. They seem to be used to passing people, and probably not used to being passed. They all look so bright, so healthy, attractive, and serious, brimming with self-confidence. With their long strides and strong, sharp kicks, it’s easy to see that they’re typical mid-distance runners, unsuited for long-distance running. They’re more mentally cut out for brief runs at high speed. Compared to them I’m pretty used to losing. There are plenty of things in this world that are way beyond me, plenty of opponents I can never beat. Not to brag, but these girls probably don’t know as much as I do about pain. And, quite naturally, there might not be a need for them to know it. These random thoughts come to me as I watch their proud ponytails swinging back and forth, their aggressive strides. Keeping to my own leisurely pace, I continue my run down along the Charles. Have I ever had such luminous days in my own life? Perhaps a few. But even if I had a long ponytail back then, I doubt if it would have swung so proudly as these girls’ ponytails do. And my legs wouldn’t have kicked the ground as cleanly and as powerfully as theirs. Maybe that’s only to be expected. These girls are, after all, brand-new students at the one and only Harvard University. Still, it’s pretty wonderful to watch these pretty girls run. As I do, I’m struck by an obvious thought: One generation takes over from the next. This is how things are handed over in this world, so I don’t feel so bad if they pass me. These girls have their own pace, their own sense of time. And I have my own pace, my own sense of time. The two are completely different, but that’s the way it should be.
”
”
Haruki Murakami (What I Talk About When I Talk About Running)
“
I turned my focus to clothes, immediately endeavoring to find just the right dress for the occasion. This was huge--my debut as the girlfriend of Marlboro Man--and I shopped with that in mind. Should I go for a sleek, sexy suit? That might seem too confident and brazen. A floral silk skirt? Too obvious for a wedding. A little black dress? Too conservative and safe. The options pummeled my brain as I browsed the choices on the racks. I tried on dress after dress, suit after suit, outfit after outfit, my frustration growing more acute with each zip of the zipper. I wanted to be a man. Men don’t agonize over what to wear to a wedding. They don’t spend seven hours trying on clothes. They don’t think of wardrobe choices as life-or-death decisions.
That’s when I found it: a drop-dead gorgeous fitted suit the exact color of a stick of butter. It was snug, with just a slight hint of sexy, but the lovely, pure color made up for it. The fabric was a lightweight wool, but since the wedding would be at night, I knew it would be just fine. I loved the suit--not only would I feel pretty for Marlboro Man, but I’d also appear moderately, but not overly, confident to all his cousins, and appropriate and proper to his elderly grandmothers.
”
”
Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels to Tractor Wheels)
“
I decide that candor is probably best, that I will never see this woman again after this month. “I’m honestly not sure why I’m here, other than I feel like I could use some spiritual direction in my life.” This is the truth. “Why do you feel that way?” Nora asks. I sit for a few seconds, because this is a good question. I’m not terribly sure, other than my soul is weary, my usual recipe of prayer and reflecting on passages from the Bible isn’t inspiring me, and I sense a gaping, run-ragged hole in my soul where mature wisdom should be. Also, I don’t know where my home is, where I might really belong. Years have passed since I last felt poured-into, I tell her, and I have not bothered to seek it out. I have embarked on this year of travel, at age thirty-seven, feeling less confident than I did a decade ago about what I believe to be true, and how that truth intersects with who I am. I am weary from game playing and formulaic answers, and the evangelical-Christian hat that I have worn daily with every outfit since I was fourteen feels too small, headache inducing. I fidget daily in its discomfort, but I don’t know how to exchange it, how it should be resized. Perhaps I can stitch a new hat from scraps I find scattered around the globe, I suggest. Perhaps she could be my milliner, maybe help me find the first scrap, floating somewhere along the sidewalks of old Chiang
”
”
Tsh Oxenreider (At Home in the World: Reflections on Belonging While Wandering the Globe)
“
Back in L.A., I’d remained friends with my freshman-year boyfriend, Collin, and we’d become even closer after he confided in me one dark and emotional night that he’d finally come to terms with his homosexuality. Around that time, his mother was visiting from Dallas, and Collin invited me to meet them at Hotel Bel Air for brunch. I wore the quintessential early-1990s brunch outfit: a copper-brown silk tank with white, dime-size polka dots and a below-the-knee, swinging skirt to match. A flawless Pretty Woman--Julia Roberts polo match replica. I loved that outfit.
It was silk, though, and clingy, and the second I sat down at the table I knew I was in trouble. My armpits began to feel cool and wet, and slowly I noticed the fabric around my arms getting damper and damper. By the time our mimosas arrived, the ring of sweat had spread to the level of my third rib; by mealtime, it had reached the waistline of my skirt, and the more I tried to will it away, the worse it got. I wound up eating my Eggs Florentine with my elbows stuck to my hip bones so Collin and his mother wouldn’t see. But copper-brown silk, when wet, is the most unforgiving fabric on the planet. Collin had recently come out to his parents, so I’d later determined I’d experienced some kind of sympathetic nervousness on Collin’s behalf. I never wore that outfit again. Never got the stains out.
Nor would I ever wear this suit again.
”
”
Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman: Black Heels to Tractor Wheels)
“
A camper should know for himself how to outfit, how to select and make a camp, how to wield an axe and make proper fires, how to cook, wash, mend, how to travel without losing his course, or what to do when he has lost it; how to trail, hunt, shoot, fish, dress game, manage boat or canoe, and how to extemporize such makeshifts as may be needed in wilderness faring. And he should know these things as he does the way to his mouth. Then is he truly a woodsman, sure to do promptly the right thing at the right time, whatever befalls. Such a man has an honest pride in his own resourcefulness, a sense of reserve force, a doughty self-reliance that is good to feel. His is the confidence of the lone sailorman, who whistles as he puts his tiny bark out to sea.
”
”
Horace Kephart (The Book of Camping and Woodcraft: A Guidebook for Those who Travel in the Wilderness)
“
Tell her what you want to tell her then, Cass.”
Cass gave Siena a quick summary of what she and Falco had discovered at the graveyard. The maid’s eyes got bigger and bigger as Cass relayed finding the open crypt door and the body, and then receiving the note. “But Signorina Cass, you might be in danger!”
“That’s why we’re going to figure out who’s responsible,” Cass said, with more confidence than she felt.
“Speaking of which…” Falco nodded at the costume bag, which Cass had completely forgotten. A silky garment, trimmed with lace and beaded elaborately, had fallen out during the scuffle.
Siena looked down, and even in the flickering light, Cass could see that her pale skin went bright pink. The lady’s maid knelt to retrieve the outfit, a low-cut satin chemise. She pressed the clothing into Cass’s hands without meeting her eyes.
Cass felt her own face get red. “It’s--it’s just a costume. We’re going to try to locate some of the dead girl’s patrons.”
“You mean you’re going to masquerade as a…” The shy maid couldn’t choke out the rest.
“Hired woman,” Cass confirmed, wondering if it would have been easier just to let Siena believe that she and Falco had met up for a tryst. She wasn’t sure which would have been more scandalizing. “I know it’s dangerous, but it’s more dangerous to do nothing while a madman plots against me. And Falco will be by my side the whole time. Please don’t tell my aunt.”
Siena didn’t say anything for a minute. She looked back and forth from Cass to Falco. Finally, she nodded. And then, to Cass’s amazement, her red face lit up with a huge smile. “You’ll need me to do your hair, Signorina.”
“Hair?” Cass wasn’t sure she had heard correctly. “What are you talking about?”
“Your hair and your makeup.” Siena reached out to stroke Cass’s thick hair. “Otherwise, no one will believe you are anything other than a noblewoman. I’ll put the sides in braids, and twist the back into a knot.”
Falco nodded approvingly at Siena. “Excellent idea. We want to make sure everyone can see that beautiful face tonight.”
Cass thought her skin might turn permanently red if she continued blushing.
”
”
Fiona Paul (Venom (Secrets of the Eternal Rose, #1))
“
It is a rare company where the head of a line unit—an operating division—will offer the CEO a dramatic proposal for transforming (or eliminating) his own organization. I never had a line of executives outside my office anywhere I worked who were there on their own initiative to tell me what was wrong with their outfit and how they intended to fix it. I am confident the same is true of most CEOs. Leaders have to understand that a bureaucracy is incapable of reforming itself.
”
”
Robert M. Gates (A Passion for Leadership: Lessons on Change and Reform from Fifty Years of Public Service)
“
When Stone created an outfit called Citizens United Not Timid (CUNT) during the 2008 presidential campaign, Bossie’s group sued him. Stone, maintaining it was a gag, settled the lawsuit.
”
”
Maggie Haberman (Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America)
“
It’s each one of our jobs to reject that comparison of what we think beauty is and realize we are the motherfucking beauty. What we see on the outside doesn’t always reflect what is inside, and vice versa. The only thing that matters is keeping your facts straight about how worthy you are of your own acceptance and love. Confidence is more about having courage to say you don’t always feel on and poppin’. You’re like, I’m not sure about how this outfit totally is working but damn it, I came to slay. Because I’m just so grateful for this moment.
”
”
Jonathan Van Ness (Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love)
“
Before he could push me any further, I pressed him back. “I have to get to class,” I protested. “I can’t afford to miss lessons before my Elemental Trials.”
“No, we wouldn’t want you to fail The Reckoning, would we?” Caleb teased, moving his mouth across my jaw and working really damn hard to keep me here.
“I mean it,” I said on a laugh, pushing him back more firmly.
Caleb pouted at me, refusing to step back while he kept me caged in with his body.
“Come to Terra House tonight then,” he asked, his navy eyes sparkling with promises.
“I won’t be going anywhere tonight, there’s a curfew, remember?”
“Those rules don’t apply to me. Besides, I’ll keep you safe if you’re with me. You’ll just have to stay the whole night.”
I rolled my eyes at him. “I can keep myself safe, thanks. But now I’m going to be late-”
“If I run you to class will you come tonight?” he asked, his mouth slipping to my neck and sending shivers right through my spine.
“If you get me there on time, I’ll consider it,” I replied.
Caleb glanced at his watch then cursed, sweeping me into his arms before speeding back out of the tiny room.
I managed not to shriek like a nine year old on a roller coaster, but I did cling onto his blazer like my life depended on it as the world shot past us in a blur so intense I couldn’t concentrate on a single thing.
Caleb skidded to a halt right outside the Fire Arena locker rooms and placed me back on my feet before leaning close to speak in my ear.
“One minute to spare. I’ll expect you tonight, sweetheart.” He pressed his mouth to mine and my heart leapt a little at the fact that he’d done so in plain sight. I had no intention of being marked as his in front of the whole school and I pulled back quickly, looking around to make sure no one had seen us. Luckily, we were already so close to being late that everyone else had already headed inside so I was spared the drama.
“Don’t go getting ahead of yourself,” I warned as I headed into the girls’ locker room. “I only said I’d consider it.”
The door swung closed between us and I bit down on a smile as I headed in to get changed. I almost considered refusing to wear the flame resistant outfit required for the class, but I decided that today wasn’t the day for me to have that argument with Professor Pyro. I’d just have to accept the fact that I wouldn’t have the same level of control over my fire magic as I would without it. But I’d keep practicing without the outfit until I was confident enough to prove her wrong.
In the meantime I had to get through this class and hope she would just be pleased that I’d finally managed to get in a training session with Darius.
The thought of the Dragon Shifter set me on edge. But I’d known I’d have to face him some time. Hopefully there would be enough going on in class to ensure that that time wouldn’t have to be now.
(tory)
”
”
Caroline Peckham (The Reckoning (Zodiac Academy, #3))
“
That self-confidence only blossomed into full-blown delusion as I got older. Eventually, the braids were replaced by a bob cut with bangs that had the presence Tina Yothers’s bangs did at her peak during Family Ties. Wait till these white boys at my new school get a whiff of me, I’d tell myself as I got dressed in the morning. Oh, they definitely did. And if Calvin Klein were to bottle that odor, it would have been called: Eau de Weary Grandmother at Post Office Who Hums a Negro Spiritual Parfum. Rolls off the tongue, doesn’t it? To make matters worse, I often paired my asexual hairdo with lived-in black dress shoes, pleated khakis, and a primary-colored turtleneck from Eddie Bauer. At best, this outfit could be described as “Jehovah Witness Chic,” and at worst, “recent Heaven’s Gate defector.” This, my friends, was the milk shake that did not bring all the boys to the yard. It was the milk shake that made them go, “You know, I’m really not into dairy right now.
”
”
Phoebe Robinson (You Can't Touch My Hair: And Other Things I Still Have to Explain)
“
A well-fitted outfit will make you look sharp while allowing you to feel comfortable and confident.
”
”
Michele Grant (The Power Dressers: A Women’s Guide to Professional Style)
“
She made
me realize what my life had been missing. I needed a woman with a spine
of steel and confidence and goals of her own. A woman who wouldn’t take
shit from me. I know Anna won’t ever let me treat her badly and I’d never
do it. She’s a woman that makes me want to worship her and that’s truly a
new experience for me. I can’t imagine being with anyone else, and I
haven’t been since we set foot in Paris. Anna is the only woman I want to
be with. I want her to be mine, truly and openly. I want everyone in the
Outfit to know she belongs to me.
”
”
Cora Reilly (By Virtue I Fall (Sins of the Fathers, #3))
“
Ninety percent of morale is pride in your outfit and confidence in your leaders and fellow fighters.
”
”
Cole C. Kingseed (Conversations with Major Dick Winters: Life Lessons from the Commander of the Band of Brothers)
“
At the opposite end of the spectrum, some people who have extensive damage to the prefrontal cortex can confidently recall things that never happened, a phenomenon called confabulation. Neurologist and author Jules Montague described the case of a young seamstress from Dublin, Ireland, named Maggie who was convinced she had visited Madonna’s house the week before and advised her on what outfits to wear on tour. Although Maggie had never met the pop singer, she was not psychotic nor was she lying; she had encephalitis, swelling of the brain, which was interfering with her ability to monitor the sources of information that popped into her head.
”
”
Charan Ranganath (Why We Remember: Unlocking Memory's Power to Hold on to What Matters)
“
Walt had arrived. He ripped through the enemy line with his bare hands—throwing one rebel magician down the hallway with inhuman strength, touching another and instantly encasing the man in mummy linen. He grabbed the staff of a third rebel, and it crumbled to dust. Finally he swept his hand toward the remaining enemies, and they shrank to the size of dolls. Canopic jars—the sort used to bury a mummy’s internal organs—sprang up around each of the tiny magicians, sealing them in with lids shaped like animal heads. The poor magicians yelled desperately, banging on the clay containers and wobbling about like a line of very unhappy bowling pins. Walt turned to our friends. “Is everyone all right?” He looked like normal old Walt—tall and muscular with a confident face, soft brown eyes, and strong hands. But his clothes had changed. He wore jeans, a dark Dead Weather T-shirt, and a black leather jacket—Anubis’s outfit, sized up to fit Walt’s physique. All I had to do was lower my vision into the Duat, just a bit, and I saw Anubis standing there in all his usual annoying gorgeousness. Both of them—occupying the same space. “Get ready,” Walt told our troops. “They’ve sealed the doors, but I can—” Then he noticed me, and his voice faltered. “Sadie,” he said. “I—” “Something about opening the doors?” I demanded. He nodded mutely. “Amos is in there?” I asked. “Fighting Kwai and Jacobi and who knows what else?” He nodded again. “Then stop staring at me and open the doors, you annoying boy!” I was talking to both of them. It felt quite natural. And it felt good to let my anger out. I’d deal with those two—that one—whatever he was—later. Right now, my uncle needed me. Walt/Anubis had the nerve to smile. He put his hand on the doors. Gray ash spread across the surface. The bronze crumbled to dust.
”
”
Rick Riordan (The Serpent's Shadow (Kane Chronicles, #3))
“
Sweet and Sour Summers “There is something my parents did, and it was pretty unique. My brother and I refer to it as ‘The Sweet and Sour Summer.’ My parents would send us, for the first half of the summer, to an internship with a relative or a friend of the family who had an interesting job. So, at 12, I went and interned with my godbrother, who is a lobbyist in D.C. I would go along with him to pitch congressmen. I had one tie, and I was a pretty good writer. I’d write up one-page summaries of these bills we were pitching, and I’d literally sit there with these congressmen with these filthy mouths—you know, the old Alabaman senator and stuff like that—and watch the pitch happen. It was awesome. I learned so much and developed so much confidence, and really honed my storytelling skills. “But then, from there, I would come home and work in a construction outfit, in a nasty, nasty job. I mean, hosing off the equipment that had been used to fix septic systems, gassing shit up, dragging shit around in the yard, filling up propane tanks. Just being the junior guy on the totem pole, and quite literally getting my ass kicked by whichever parolee was angry at me that day. I think it was part of their master plan, which was: There’s a world of cool opportunities out there for you, but let’s build within you a sense of not just work ethic, but also, a little kick in the ass about why you don’t wanna end up in one of those real jobs. . . .” TIM: “You had the introduction to the godbrother, for the lobbying. Did your parents also help organize the sour part of each summer?” CHRIS: “The guy who ran that construction company is my dad’s best friend, and he was under strict orders to make sure we had the roughest day there.
”
”
Timothy Ferriss (Tools of Titans: The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers)
“
Blue high heels, a timeless and enchanting accessory, have long held a special place in fashion. These stunning footwear pieces effortlessly blend sophistication with a dash of whimsy, making them a coveted addition to any fashion-conscious individual's wardrobe.
In all its shades, the color blue has always been associated with a sense of calm, serenity, and depth. When translated into high heels, this color takes on a whole new dimension, turning a pair of shoes into a fashion statement that exudes confidence and charm.
One of the most remarkable aspects of blue high heels is their versatility. Whether you opt for a classic navy, a vibrant royal blue, or an ethereal pastel shade, there's a blue heel to suit every occasion. Navy blue heels, for example, are an excellent choice for corporate settings, exuding professionalism and power. On the other hand, a pair of electric blue stilettos can add a playful pop of color to your evening ensemble, making you the center of attention at any event.
Blue high heels also beautifully complement a wide range of outfits. They can elevate a simple jeans-and-blouse combo, add a touch of elegance to a cocktail dress, or provide a striking contrast to an all-black ensemble. Their ability to effortlessly blend into various styles and settings is a testament to their timeless appeal.
In addition to their aesthetic charm, blue high heels offer the wearer a sense of empowerment. The elevation they provide not only increases height but also boosts confidence. Walking in heels requires poise and balance, qualities that further enhance one's self-assurance.
Blue high heels are a must-have for anyone looking to infuse their wardrobe with elegance and style. These captivating footwear pieces offer versatility, empowerment, and a touch of sophistication, making them an indispensable accessory for fashion enthusiasts. Whether stepping into the boardroom, hitting the town, or simply looking to turn heads, blue high heels will always rise to the occasion, leaving a lasting impression wherever you go.
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kokania
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The door at the back of Ventura Superior Courtroom One swung open, and a smiling, confident Elizabeth Duncan sashayed in like she owned the place. Her grand entrance was hindered only by the fact that she was cuffed to a deputy sheriff. Mrs. Duncan nodded and raised her finger tips to a few familiar faces in the press section that she'd come to know during the week-long jury selection process.
Reporters and photographers swarmed. 'How about a few pictures before we start?' one newsman called out. Mrs.'s Duncan's dapper little attorney, S. Ward Sullivan, nodded his permission. The deputy unfastened the cuffs. Mrs. Duncan stood next to her chair at the defense table and rubbed her wrist before turning toward reporters. 'Do you like my new outfit?' she asked as she fluffed the skirt of her two-piece, black and white dress. 'Frank bought it for me.' Flashbulbs popped.
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Deborah Holt Larkin (A Lovely Girl: The Tragedy of Olga Duncan and the Trial of One of California's Most Notorious Killers)
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Found it,” Einen said. Their very large boxes, sealed with glowing hieroglyphs, were at the bottom. Einen recognized them by the designations written on the tops of the boxes in the desert language: ‘Islander’ and ‘Northerner’. Pulling them out of the rack, the friends thought about what they should do next. Then it dawned on Hadjar and he simply touched the hieroglyph. His blue bracelet flashed, and then the seal disappeared, melting away like a slight haze. The sword lying inside the box soothed his tense nerves better than any herbal tincture ever could. As soon as Mountain Wind was back in his calloused hand, confidence welled up in Hadjar’s soul: no obstacle in his path could stop him or even slow him down. The old leather wallet with his friends’ wedding bracelets reassured his aching heart. ‘The Black Gates’ Patriarch’s ring, the fairy’s tears, and little Serra’s gift were almost insignificant compared to those two most important things. Although, after looking at the sword, Hadjar tied the wallet to his belt first. There were many swords in this world after all... “I don’t think you’re allowed to do what you want here,” someone behind him said. Hadjar turned around. He realized that he’d been lost in his own thoughts for a while. The sounds of merriment had long since subsided. The central hall, which had resembled a tavern and a brothel at the same time, was now empty. All the practitioners wearing blue amulets had bared their weapons and crowded behind Glen. He was still lazily sipping from his mug, but his gaze was tenacious. The leader of the fifty ‘guinea pigs’, selected by Karissa, was ready to fight. To the death. Einen, who’d somehow managed to put his people’s traditional outfit on, stood next to Hadjar. In his hand, the spear-staff, which hadn’t exposed its deadly stinger yet, swayed dangerously. “Put those things back and go to bed,” Glen said bossily. “You shouldn’t steal from people who’ve sheltered you.” “We haven’t stolen anything,” Einen snapped in reply, “we’ve just taken back our things.” “There’s nothing of yours here.” “The names on the boxes beg to differ,” Hadjar stated calmly. They met Glen’s eyes. By the Evening Stars, the undersized rogue was one of the few people who could withstand Hadjar’s gaze. “It seems that children from the north and the islands can’t count,” Glen said more forcefully. “I’ll give you one more chance. Put-” “Put a dog’s reproductive organ down your throat,” Einen spat on the floor. His friend’s cursing made Hadjar open his mouth in surprise. Apparently, the stress of the recent weeks had really affected the usually calm islander. “How many newbies have you cheated like this so far? You make them think that they can’t take their things back, and then you send them to their deaths.
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Kirill Klevanski (Sea of Sorrow (Dragon Heart, #5))
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So, your nails are done, your hair is tight, and you have laid out a BOMB outfit for every day of the week! But your life is a hot mess. Finances in disarray got more shoes than savings, no plans for the future. Instead of organizing your closet, try "handling your business" on for size. The package isn't worth much if there's no substance to what's inside.
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Liz Faublas
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Welcome to TryKid: Luxury Children’s Fashion Store Online
Welcome to TryKid, the ultimate destination where style meets childhood dreams! We bring you a luxury children's fashion experience designed to make every child feel special while ensuring top-quality and trendsetting styles. Let us take you through the heartfelt journey of TryKid, your go-to online store for premium children’s fashion.
The Vision Behind TryKid
The idea of TryKid was born from a simple yet profound mission: to redefine children's fashion by offering luxurious, high-quality clothing and accessories tailored to young trendsetters. We envisioned a platform where parents could find sophisticated yet playful designs that reflect their child's unique personality, ensuring a seamless blend of comfort and elegance.
Why Choose TryKid?
At TryKid, we believe every child deserves to shine in outfits that celebrate their individuality. Here’s what sets us apart:
1. Premium Quality Fabrics
We handpick fabrics that are soft, durable, and safe for sensitive skin, ensuring your child’s comfort is never compromised.
2. Exquisite Designs
Our collections feature timeless designs with a modern twist, combining luxury with functionality. From everyday wear to special occasions, TryKid offers something for every moment.
3. Diverse Collections
From chic dresses to dapper suits, cozy knitwear to statement accessories, TryKid covers all your child’s wardrobe needs with flair.
4. Sustainability First
We prioritize eco-friendly practices by offering sustainable fabrics and packaging, ensuring a better tomorrow for your little ones.
5. Personalized Shopping Experience
Our user-friendly online store allows parents to explore collections effortlessly, offering tailored recommendations based on your preferences.
The TryKid Journey
TryKid started as a small dream fueled by a passion for fashion and the love for creating joyful childhood memories. Over the years, we’ve evolved into a trusted name in luxury children’s fashion, admired for our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Each collection at TryKid tells a story, inspired by children’s boundless imagination and vibrant personalities. Whether it’s a whimsical fairy tale or a chic urban vibe, our designs bring those stories to life, helping kids express themselves with confidence and charm.
Shop with Ease at TryKid
Shopping for your child’s wardrobe has never been more exciting! Our intuitive website offers:
Detailed Product Descriptions: Know every feature, from fabric composition to care instructions.
Size Guides: Find the perfect fit with our accurate and comprehensive size charts.
Secure Payment Options: Enjoy peace of mind with our encrypted payment methods.
Fast Shipping and Easy Returns: We ensure a hassle-free experience from checkout to delivery.
Conclusion
At TryKid, we aim to be more than just a luxury children’s fashion store. We aspire to be a part of your child’s beautiful journey, dressing them in outfits that make every moment memorable. Discover the magic of premium fashion for your little ones and let them shine in the elegance they deserve.
Explore our collections today and experience why TryKid is a trusted name in luxury children’s fashion. Welcome to the world of TryKid, where dreams come to life in every stitch and style!
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trykid