Breaking into my fall wardrobe to pay tribute to the great Tom Petty and champion the American girl.
Dreamers, today’s post is dedicated to a great man named Tom Petty.
There truly are no words for how large a loss Tom Petty’s passing is. Ever since high school, I’ve had a love of driving around town with my windows down, blasting his classic anthems. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing him in concert twice, once on my birthday – which of course felt extra special. Talk about a legendary performer and songwriter whose music will continue to resonate and have relevance far into the future.
2017 in general has been a tough year for me and my musical heroes. Losing Chris Cornell in May was a gut-wrenching blow. Be it Soundgarden, Audioslave or his incredible solo albums…his soulful voice has been a part of my life for decades. Then, we lost Chester Bennington from Linkin Park and now, sadly, Tom Petty to follow. These artists have written the soundtrack to my life and made music that pulled me through both the best and very worst of times.
(I’m telling you, nothing better happen to Billie Joe Armstrong or Shirley Manson – because my heart simply cannot take it.)
She Was An American Girl
Driving across town to a running list of Tom Petty’s hits, it’s always easy for me to settle into the groove of my personal favorites Won’t Back Down and Listen to Her Heart. But, I’ll ALWAYS have a major soft spot for the ultimate classic American Girl.
I am an American girl, after all, as are many of my fellow dreamers. I know on more than one occasion you’ve thrown that tune on, danced around your bedroom or sped down rolling roads thinking and dreaming of more. The song has been an anthem in all of our lives and even still today is as relevant as ever.
Well she was an American girl, raised on promises.
She couldn’t help thinkin’ that there – was a little more to life
Somewhere else.
After all it was a great big world,
With lots of places to run to.
Yeah, and if she had to die
Tryin’ – she had one little promise
She was gonna keep…
Oh yeah, all right.
Take it easy baby.
Make it last all night!
She was an American girl.
What does it mean to be an American Girl?
In 2017, I feel I’ve reflected on what it means to be an American girl more than any other time in my life. It’s a crazy world we live in these days. The core of American values seems to be in great debate on center stage. Political chaos aside, here in America we were sifting our way through the aftermath of three horrific hurricanes Monday morning when we awoke to the news of the largest mass shooting – yet.
Yet being the optimal word, because unless our elected officials prioritize common sense public safety over campaign donations- tragedies such as the shooting in Las Vegas will continue. No civilian needs legal access to a personal weapon of mass destruction, let alone an arsenal. We wouldn’t legalize a bomb now would we? *No*
As American girls we deserve the right to life, liberty the pursuit of happiness – and the freedom to peacefully get it.
Not to mention, as American girls we have the right to chase our dreams – whatever they may be – so long as they don’t bring harm on any of our fellow loving Americans.
I of course feel bad that what was intended to be a positive fall style post on this fun Who What Wear x Target polka dot dress and my LOVE for Target’s affordable Gucci knock-off loafers has taken a bit of dark turn.
But in losing Tom Petty, the ultimate American performer, I’m strongly reminded that America is hurting right now. Big time.
And Tom Petty definitely wouldn’t want this world for us.
How can America heal?
A little more patience, a lot more understanding and the music of great American legends like Tom Petty would be a great place to start.
One things for sure, while Americans can be at odds with one another a lot of the time – there are many things that connect us. I vote the power of music is definitely one of them.
Who What Wear for the American Girl
Right now, America is heading into a new season which means it’s time to breakout the fall style. On a late night during New York Fashion Week (when I couldn’t sleep), I ordered this Who What Wear x Target polka dot dress and Gucci knock-off loafers on a whim.
A great thing about the Who What Wear x Target fall collection? All of the styles are available in traditional and plus sizes – making the line virtually perfect for ALL American girls. Bravo Hillary Kerry!!
The styles are youthful but professional – and very reasonably priced for stocking up your wardrobe. This ruffle dress in particular comes in four different styles, including another polka dot color variation, a floral and blue print. I like that it’s polished, while not being confining in the least. Not to mention, these Target loafers are super versatile, surprisingly comfortable and will no doubt be on heavy rotation in my wardrobe this season.
Wishing All My Fellow American Girls a Beautiful Fall
Now that the scorching hot temperatures have broken and the leaves are starting to turn, my excitement for fall is definitely ramping up. Here’s to pumpkin spiced everything, autumn scented candles, spooky movies and, of course, my favorite fall recipes.
Crisp walks. Fall harvests. Boot weather. Cozy knits. Not to mention a new season of Stranger Things on Netflix. A list of just some of the many things I’m looking forward to this season.
And autumn drives with Tom Petty. Always, Tom Petty.
What’s on YOUR fall bucket list?
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Who What Wear Polka Dot Flutter Shoulder Dress ($34.99)
Target Gilda Loafer Heel Pumps ($32.99)
Stay stylish and keep chasing your dreams!
XOXO
Kelly
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