Soft Life in Progress: How I Learned to Be That Girl

Hey girlfriend, it wasn’t overnight, but I slowly transitioned from a total tomboy to someone who now embraces softness, sparkle, and a little glam everyday. Here’s what helped me tap into my girly side—and made me feel even more like me.

Clothes that flatter, not fight you.

For me, it’s all about balance. If the top is tight or revealing, I go looser on the bottom—and vice versa. I also started buying cute around-the-house clothes. Think: matching sweatsuits or flattering loungewear that still make you feel productive and curated, even on bummy days.

Jewelry, always.

I keep a few go-to pieces that won’t tarnish, even in the shower—because yes, I wear mine like I’m some kind of mermaid. Jewelry makes me feel protected (evil eye, etc.) and pulled together. A statement necklace or stack of rings/bracelets can also carry an entire outfit.

Perfume—even at home.

I like little surprises, and perfume is one of them. Even if I’m just lounging, scent makes the moment feel soft r

Like most curly girls, natural hair for me has always meant ponytails, slick-backs, and wash-and-go’s. But swapping out regular stretchies for ones with gold accents—or adding a simple gold clip—changed everything. It’s an often-overlooked moment that becomes its own little star at the back of your head. A little shine really does go a long way.

Nails: always neat.

Even when I go bare, I keep my nails semi-long and finished with a clear coat. It’s one of those “stay ready so you don’t have to get ready” things. Clean, pretty nails elevate everything—because your hands are how you interact with the world. Whether you’re holding a coffee, typing a text, or brushing hair out of your face, it all feels just a little more graceful.

Never have a bad hair day.

Like most curly girls, natural hair to me is pretty much synonymous with braid outs, wash n gos and the nonnegotiable slick backs. But swapping out basic stretchies for ones with gold accents—or adding a cute gold hair clip to match my jewelry— made a world of a difference. It’s one of those small touches that turns something simple into something special. That bun or fro suddenly becomes its own star at the back of your head. A little shine really does go a long way.

Lip gloss and a smile.

Keeping my lips moisturized is a must, and a little gloss makes everything pop. But honestly? Smiling more—being warm, open, and kind—was the biggest shift. It’s what made me feel the most beautiful.

Becoming girly didn’t mean changing who I was—it meant finally letting myself enjoy the beauty, softness, and care I used to think were ‘too much.’

Every glossed lip, spritz of perfume, or gold hair clip is a reminder that I deserve to feel good in my skin, even on the quiet days. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being present in your own glow. And the best part? You don’t need a reason to romanticize your life. Being the reason is enough.