Best of 2021

How is there less than a week left of 2021?! Even though this year went by fast, January feels like an entire lifetime ago. Aside from the obvious, this year was full of personal challenges that I may or may not have let get the best of me. That said, there were plenty of lessons learned, and as insinuated by this post, not every second of 2021 was truly awful. Same as last year, this top ten list is the most random assortment of experiences, objects, brands…, pretty much anything that gave me comfort or excited me in 2021.

1. Family and Friends

Recognizing the value of family and being appreciative of my support system have definitely improved with age. I have never been one to rely on others when faced with problems. As a result, I never fully realized how many people care for me until this year. I was overwhelmed by the love and generosity shown to me while I was sick, and I can't begin to express how much it meant to me. I have never felt so loved and supported, and I am forever grateful to all the people that helped me get through this difficult time.

2. Moving into my new apartment

My surroundings have a tremendous impact on my mood. While I enjoyed my apartment last year, this apartment feels more like home; it’s cozy, relaxing, and I get to share it with two of my best friends. The daily roommate check-ins, movie nights, and laughs induced by mispronounced words, delirium, or sarcasm are much-needed serotonin boosts.

3. Internship

I have learned so much in the 10 months working as an operations intern at bloom daily planners, and I could not have dreamed of a better first internship. I am so inspired by the company and the hard-working people running it (who also happen to be so welcoming and kind). Aside from easing my previous anxieties over having a limited resume, working at bloom felt like a long-term job shadow. I am proud of myself for balancing school and work, and I am happy to report that I am walking away with a new set of skills and more confidence.

4. Everlane

I was first introduced to Everlane through an assigned case study in one of my fashion classes and thought I would give it a try. Although I have yet to try their tops, I love their pants and shorts. I often have a hard time finding flattering pants for my height and figure but have been pleased with every item purchased from Everlane so far. My favorite styles are their Straight-Leg Crop and the Easy Short.

5. Margaux

Last year I became obsessed with ballet flats and stumbled upon Margaux. As someone with wide feet, I often struggle to find cute and comfortable shoes. Although I don't mind sacrificing comfort for style, it is always nice to have the best of both worlds. I treated myself to a pair of demi flats for my birthday and wore them every chance I could. I was so in love with my first pair that I just bought a second pair in navy as a “congratulations on getting through this year” gift for myself.

6. Classically Leah Instagram

I have had a fashion-specific Instagram account for a few years now but have always neglected it after a couple of weeks of consistent posting. I am proud of myself for posting fairly regularly this entire year because it is a sign of personal growth. Lack of self-confidence and incessant perfectionism made sharing photos of myself for others to judge unappealing at times. There were certainly days where I wasn’t feeling comfortable in my skin or felt a little self-conscious about showcasing my interest in fashion. However, I am learning how to navigate those negative feelings and embrace my passions.

7. In-Person Classes

Who would have thought in-person classes could be so exciting. While there is something to be said for the short commute from my bed to my desk, I love walking to class and being on a lively campus again. In-person classes do not eliminate the stress of college, but I feel like I'm getting some semblance of the normal college experience.

8. Making new friends

Due to my introverted nature, making friends does not come easily (and the pandemic certainly did not help). The fact that I expanded my social circle is a pretty big personal accomplishment. I befriended a few people in my business and fashion classes, and it has made a big difference in my life during the school year. I love being able to talk to people who are on a similar path and who I can relate to.

9. Taylor Swift’s Re-Recorded Albums

…because what’s a year without some sad songs to cry to.

10. Figure skating

I can remember a time when I could hardly wait to be done with figure skating and all the stress and pressure that went along with being a competitive figure skater. Since being part of the collegiate figure skating world, my love for the sport has been rekindled, and now I’m dreading my impending retirement. This year, my passion for figure skating has been stronger than it has in many years. During the months that I wasn’t allowed to skate, I would often daydream about skating, and it reminded me how much I love the sport.