“Where are you from?” – one of the most common questions ever. I spent years hating how I answered it. “Ugh..Kansas” I would say almost in an apologetic way with some side eye to myself. I always thought that people saw Kansas how I saw it as a child, flat, wide open spaces and a place that you drive through in order to get to Colorado or some other place. I realized last year when I finally accepted that I was going to be a Kansas girl longer than I thought, I needed to change my perception of Kansas.
Fast forward a year later, I now enthusiastically say, “I’m from Kansas!” People immediately notice my enthusiasm and then start sharing their stories of people they know from the area, their memories or some other antidote. I realized that I was the issue, not Kansas. Once I embraced where I was from I started realizing that you know, Kansas is actually really cool.
It took Old Navy’s #50states50Styles campaign for me to write my home state that shaped me on the blog but now I’m not going to shut up! (By the way! You can see all 50 State Styles HERE and you can submit your own look using their hashtag #50states50Styles)
- Yes, Kansas is a lot of fields, but those fields are wide open, rolling spaces that have the most incredible sunsets. There is NOTHING as gorgeous as a Kansas sunset and I took that for granted for so long.
- You learn to be wear versatile outfits. Layer the eff up. In the morning it feels like winter, then in the middle of the day it’s summer and then in the evening it’s fall. Oh and then there’s probably going to be wind and then rain and then hail. You’d think I am making this up but just ask anyone from central Kansas, it’s just a normal day in Kansas. (For example: this outfit, it was hot that afternoon but cool in the evening when we took the photos so I had to be creative in making everything look intentionally
- You will never meet nicer people who understand the important of personal space. We’ve got a lot of space here in Kansas and people will actively apologize for being like on the same side of the street of you because they think that is being in your way. We have been described as “uncomfortable nice.”
- It is as flat as you think, but like, come on, what do hills really do?
- Community is everything. I am from the largest city in Kansas, Wichita, and I learned so much about the importance of building a community of tight-knit, ride-or-die, friends that have your back regardless of any situation.
- Basketball is life. Rock Chalk Jayhawk. The end.
- The moment you tell us Kansas is boring, even the biggest Kansas-hating-resident will immediately prove you wrong. Kansas is NOT boring and don’t you even bring that up.
Tara | The Mix
These pictures came out amazing…this dress is gorgeous on you lady!
Garaytreasures
Beautiful photos, outfit and you Kansas girl! Have a lovely Tuesday friend!
BLovedBoston
You look gorgeous in these photos!! I feel ya on the layering – it's the same here in Boston! xo, Biana –BlovedBoston
Gina Daily
Aw, this was such a fun read! That's great that you taught yourself to have new perspective on your home state. And the outfit you chose to represent your state is very pretty and flattering! Especially love that necklace, too!
Gina || On the Daily Express
Lauren {Fizz and Frosting}
You look so stunning in these photos! I love that dress on you!
Fizz and Frosting
Alyson
Woohoo for Kansas — and I love and totally agree with you it's all about how you present things! Think that's a life lesson and I'm doing the same with something here. If you present something with enthusiasm that's the reaction you'll get back. Kansas seems like a gorgeous place… just like you. I LOVE this new ON floral print and you styled it perfectly. Excited to see the other states…
alyson
http://www.theaveragegirlsguide.com
Girl and Closet
What an amazing + fun collab Alissa!! Plus I'm seriously obsessed with your outfit, it's insanely gorgeous and these photos are the bomb. Love the light and love driving through all the farmland & fields where we live… so many great weekend memories!! <3
http://www.girlandcloset.com
awhite
Kansas is the jam, 'tis true. AND ROCK CHALK HELL YES.
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Britney Crawley
Great post! Love the photography and lighting. Also, that necklace is perfection! Also loving all your life lessons from Kansas. 🙂 Thanks for sharing!
Closet Fashionista
Wow, what gorgeous photos! I love the print of that dress. And yes, be proud of Kansas!!! I've never been but I'll get there eventually, haha. So many states to visit!
http://www.closet-fashionista.com/
Amanda Elizabeth - Meet @ the Barre
I absolutely adore these pictures! I'm always trying to figure out the settings on my camera to shoot during this golden hour. You nailed it. My husband always gets asked where he is from and he always says "Ft Lauderdale" even though his family originates back in Trinidad 😉
Kate at Green Fashionista
Gorgeous pictures! And I love how enthusiastic you are about your home state, and yessss to all the college basketball. Definitely a dynasty 🙂
Green Fashionista
Emma Henderson
This is a really lovely post – everything I knew about Kansas beforehand was from Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz so I'm glad I read this! Your pics are gorgeous, too.
Emma | http://www.fluffandfripperies.com
Straight A Style
Congrats on this collab! You are the perfect person to represent Kansas. Loving these dreamy photos of you.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Priya
I saw your pretty face on this feature and was SO excited for you! Such a cool idea. Plus I'm obsessed with Old Navy so of course I'm a fan. These pictures are so beautiful! I'm wildly statriotic myself so I enjoyed hearing what you love about Kansas (can't say I've ever been, but I've heard cool things about Wichita & Kansas City!) You made it sound (and look!) pretty awesome!
♥ perfectly Priya
Diana Pearl
I'm also from the Midwest and am definitely partial to flat land. Mountains are pretty, but I hate driving up hills! Congrats on the collab, I love the outfit!
Andrea jueong
Nice dress and pictures!
http://fabuloustorture.blogspot.com
Alissa Kelly
LOVE LOVE LOVE this outfit – congrats on such an awesome campaign, girl!! So amazing!! I need that denim jacket… been on the hunt for a new one!
Alissa
NaturallyMeBlog.com
Kelsey Bang
love the lighting in these photos! you look stunning!
kelseybang.com
Alyssa Renee
Lovely outfit! Your dress is so pretty! =)
~Alyssa~
shesalyssarenee.com
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Whitney Damrau
Ok first off, these pictures are stunning and you look beautiful in all of them! And secondly, i love that you are from Kansas! I don't know anyone from there and I find it fascinating! It's on my bucket list of places to go because I heard it so pretty.
Xoxo,
Whitney & Blaire
Peaches In A Pod
jess
The floral print on your dress looks so nice. I used to hate where I lived too. When I got a car my perspective changed.
http://tresfly.blogspot.com/
Karly @ Miss in the Midwest
These photos are so dreamy of you! Love the setting and your outfit, of course. I think it's great that you embrace where you're from – it sounds like there's a lot to love there!
Carmen Varner
Such a great post. I've never been to Kansas but I'd love to visit after your description. That dress also looks so good on you. :]
// ▲ itsCarmen.com ▲
Laura Bambrick
These pictures are stunning! You look beautiful in that gorgeous dress! Love your perspective too. I need to be more positive about where I live (even though I do wish it was warmer 90% of the time)!
Shira
So incredible that you were a part of that campaign- so freakin cool and major congrats! You look beautiful!
http://asequinloveaffair.com
Chelsea Finn
I absolutely loved this post! I love hearing about where are people from. I came from a military family so I moved every 3-4 years during my childhood and teenage years so I'm jealous of people who can call a specific place "home"! Gorgeous photos, I looooove that outfit!
xx Chelsea
http://www.organizedmessblog.com
Kathrine Eldridge
I love your enthusiasm for Kansas! That's how I feel about Chicago. 🙂 This look is so pretty and the added denim and belt is perfect. Beautiful photos!
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Melissa
My husband has been dreaming of being stationed in Kansas forever! I think it's in large part because of his love of the Chiefs, but who knows? A man can dream 🙂
Head to Toe Chic
That's so awesome that you are a part of Old Navy's campaign! Kansas really sounds amazing, and these pictures are gorgeous!
xo,
Angela
Vanessa Ciliberto
wow these photos are amazing!
TheVogueWord
TheVogueWord
molly hogan
Great post! And such pretty photos 🙂
Xx
Molly
http://www.trendychickadee.com
Rachel McCarthy
What a great dress to represent your state! I grew up in Ohio and although we don't have as many fields as Kansas, I can totally relate. Now living on the east coast in a big city, I miss those Ohio fields! Great post!
xo, Rachel
A Blonde's Moment
Carina Vardie
The pictures are fantastic, so pretty. I would love to visit Kansas, it sounds like a wonderful place.
xo
http://www.carinavardie.com
Rachel Heffington
I love the vibe of this post: a thriving, happy, glowing woman who knows from whence she comes. <3
Kimi, Cotton Cashmere Cat Hair
I love that you've learned to love where you're from! As I get older I realize there's beauty in every thing and every place. 🙂
Shannon Jenkins
First off these pictures are stunning!! You look gorgeous and that dress is amazing! Secondly, I am slightly jealous you are from Kansas bc I have a weird obsession with the Wizard of Oz… I mean youre practically Dorothy.
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
Beautygirl 24
Absolutely gorgeous photos! The lighting is a dream. I always imagine myself running through a beautiful field. Not sure why or what from, but this basically sums up why all 50 states are so darn pretty in their own unique way
Kristina
These pictures are so beautiful!! I actually don't think I've ever been to Kansas but it looks so pretty.
Kristina does the internets
Laura Mitbrodt
What beautiful photos! I love that dress
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
cielofronteras
You are so pretty! Love these amazing shots! =)
– Cielo
Mermaid in Heels
Alice Warren
I love these photos…so beautiful!
Alice
http://www.happinessatmidlife.com
Hope to see you Thursday for TBT Fashion link up.
THEDASHINGRIDER
I have never been to Kansas but it's definitely on my list! My grandma spent some time there 🙂
xx Fiona THEDASHINGRIDER.com
mollyblue
Hah! Great post! I can totally relate to the "uncomfortable nice" as a fellow Kansan! Love it!
Mónica - Mes Voyages à Paris
Like your style, dear 😉
xx
Mónica Sors
MES VOYAGES À PARIS
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Elle Sees
a love letter to KS! It took me time, but I realized how much I love about my state (GA)!!
Abigail Castro
I know Kansas isn't a very popular state, but I am drawn to those states. Sometimes, I like the quiet towns and exploring places that people don't even know exist. I take a lot of pride in my hometown and glad that you are finally embracing it!
Abby of Life in the Fash Lane
Hannah Will
Beautiful photos! I've never been to Kansas. I'm from New England, but I would love to explore the south some more!
The Daily Delicacy
Elise Von E
Well you make Kansas sound magnificent! I have always wanted to visit since I was a child and saw The Wizard of Oz for the first time. This look is beautiful and your photos are amazing!
xx, Elise
http://www.sparkleandslippers.blogspot.com
Simply Alexandra // My Favorite Things
Ha, this is so true! It's really kind of funny. I am sure most people just want to "get out" and get away from the bad things associated with their area or their life in that area. But really, each new place has it's own new issues. That doesn't mean KS doesn't have good stuff. It does indeed! 🙂 There are a lot of things I don't like about Kansas… but there are a lot of really good things too. It's important to remember them. 🙂 As much as we travel and see beachy or desert sunsets. City skylines, etc. etc. Kansas skies are still my favorite. Stormy or glowing… it's always gorgeous here. 🙂 XO -Alexandra
Simply Alexandra: My Favorite Things
Shea Sayers
All the amens from this Kansas girl!! I totally agree–I grew up being a little embarrassed by my home state and thinking I'd get the heck out as soon as possible, but here I am, 33 years later, and still here. While I don't usually agree with our state's politics, I'm now proud to say that Kansas is the state I come from, and I think there are plenty of awesome people who live here, and plenty of awesome things about it.
Anyway, I loved this post. And the pictures–you look gorgeous and glowy 🙂
One last thing, the only thing I didn't agree with… no Rock Chalk for me. Go Wildcats! 🙂
Shea | http://www.shealennon.com
viv
Wahoo! Congrats on this awesome campaign! I have never visited Kansas but this makes me want to schedule a trip 😉
http://www.fashiontruffles.com
Argan Oil Home
Amazing dress and i like more the place where you took this pictures.
ArganOilhome
Mercy F
Wonderful story, this is one state that I want to know more from a personal perspective. Lucky, I read your post. The fields are golden, your photos are simply beautiful. Love your denim jacket btw.
http://www.busyandfab.com
Doused In Pink
What a fun campaign! I've never been to Kansas but I've always wanted to go because of the Wizard of Oz! Love your floral dress!
Jill
Doused In Pink
Lorna
Kansas has always sounded great to me, ever since The Wizard of Oz (sorry)! I would visit if I could, the only thing scary though is tornado alley, so I'm scared of all the states in it. I think most people feel that way about where they're from (I personally don't as I love my city of Bath in England) as I know a lot of people here who hate it because it's boring to them. It's all about how you personally view and see what's around you xx.
Raindrops of Sapphire
Lorna
And I forgot to put, I love the fact you guys love personal space! I wish it was the same here. Our houses are right on each others doorsteps, neighbours are practically in your garden and streets are crammed with people. I would really appreciate the space you have.
Raindrops of Sapphire
Jen Hsieh
I have no clue how you managed to do it so quickly, but all of a sudden I'm getting the feeling of "Do I need to go to Kansas immediately? I do. What will I do there? I don't know but I need to go. I JUST NEED TO." I love that you have such a close knit community in your town, which is something I don't think I've ever felt (but always saw in movies and read about in books). Adopt me!
JennifHsieh
Helen Chik
Oh gosh! Your weather reminds me of Sydney and Melbourne sometimes! We experience four seasons in a day sometimes!! These images are so pretty too and you look fabbbb!!
Sending you love from Sydney!! <3
Helen xx
http://CH1K.com/trendy-tech-fossil-q
LyddieGal
I think it's hard not to grow up and spend your life in one place and not eventually realize the beauty of the place, the community which you are a part of and the shared history that comes from watching one place evolve over your lifetime. Bloom where you are planted, right?
http://www.iamchiconthecheap.com/
Gingi Freeman
OMG, I used to answer that way to my hometown too.. I look back and think how awful it was to downplay my wonderful hometown! Great post! Awesome blog! – http://www.domesticgeekgirl.com
Vera Sawicki
Beautiful photos. I love the outfit.
Blonde in Cashmere
Akansha Singh
What the dress. You look very cute! Really amazing. I love the way of styling. Thank you so much for sharing.
http://www.thefemall.com/
Alyssa
I almost got this dress, too, although it looks way better in the pretty Kansas fields than it probably would on the city streets!
Maya McDonald
Awww, I LOVE this! Also, I have those Old Navy flats and I've been wearing them on repeat! They're my new faves 🙂 xx
Maggie Zemanek
This dress is too cute!! I'm loving this look 🙂
http://www.maggiealamode.com
s
that hair!!!!!
xO!
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Lorna
Just stopping by to wish you a happy midweek! Can't wait for your new post.
Raindrops of Sapphire
Mica T
I've never been to Kansas but you make it sound lovely! 🙂 These photos are beautiful too, I really like the denim jacket with the printed maxi skirt, a great combination and one I've worn myself a few times! 🙂
Hope you're having a great week 🙂
Away From The Blue Blog
Rach DiMare
I've never been to Kansas, but I think it would be fun to check it out. Glad your attitude changed about it. Seeing a city in a positive light I bet opened your eyes the beauty it has! Your dress is so cute!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Missy MacKenzie
Love the floral dress. The field where you shot this looks like heaven., it’s breathtaking.
Missy
missymackenzie.com
allie provost
this post is absolutely amazing!! love how you looked at your home state with a new perspective!! such a great message – hope you have a wonderful weekend!!
xo
allie
pretaprovost.com
Ada
So, I have been meaning to comment here because I saw this in the article for #50StatesOldNavyStyle and when it was down to Kansas, I saw you. And I was like, oh hey it is the funny, adorable, stylish Alissa. It made me really happy I promise. Then I read this article and I learn more about you and Kansas (where I have never been) and I like you more because of it. Like you, many times I have felt the same way about Michigan. But you know what Michigan is wonderful. Actually about a month ago I read a not-very-old article that had ranked all 50 states regarding natural beauty and general living there and guess who was number one? Michigan! It made me so happy. BTW, the weather is indeed very unpredictable and the same way you described it, here in MI too.
I loved that Old Navy did this and I would love if they do it next year for me to be a part of it. Now off to navigate their site and get my hands on some of their beautiful things for Fall.
Have a splendid day, as you are!
Emily
I think a lot of people feel this way about where they’re from, because it’s where they’re from and a lot of times they feel stifled by the people who know them. I see this a lot with my friends from home, which is Long Island. Sometimes it takes growing up to see the beauty in our hometowns.