I can’t believe the year is basically over! 2017 was definitely an interesting year. There were certainly ups and downs. But overall I feel so lucky to have traveled to so many places and have so many incredible experiences. And I’m so thankful for all of you! Without you I could never get to do what I do as a living and I’m so incredibly grateful. So without further ado, here are top 17 faves of 2017…

#1 Fave accomplishment

My new home was by far the biggest project I went through in 2017. What started as a small refresh turned into an entire home makeover. After three months of being a nomad, it was the most incredible feeling to move into my new home. Redoing my space was my biggest accomplishment and I can’t wait to utilize it more in the new year.

#2 Fave beauty trend

Shorter hair! I made the chop in Spring and couldn’t be happier. I love that women are embracing hairstyle of all lengths.

#3 Fave new product

With my shorter hair, I became obsessed with this hair straightening brush. It makes getting ready so easy! you can read the full review here.

#4 Fave trip

I was lucky to travel a ton this year. But my absolute favorite trip was going to Aruba with my Philosophy fam. It was a true rejuvenation of mind and body and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience.

#5 Fave video

One of the outcomes of the Aruba trip was it pushed me to open up more. I leaned on my friend Dawn to help me create a video explaining how I dealt with my dad’s suicide. I’m so thankful for all the support that came as a result.

#6 Fave Purchase

I bought myself a Gucci belt for my birthday. I wear it non stop. Here’s how I made the decision.

#7 Fave lip color

I feel so lucky to get to try so many new beauty products. My most used shade this year was a red lipstick: Mac “Lady Danger.” It’s the perfect orange-y red that I wore from summer into winter.

#8 Fave book

I got really into reading this year. I think I read over 50 books! My favorite was “The Light We Lost.” I rarely cry but I teared up as I turned the final pages. You can find more of my book reviews here.

#9 Fave shoe trend

I’m so obsessed with sock booties! They’re my new go-to and instantly make me feel sexier and slimmer when I slip them on.

#10 Fave fashion trend

Velvet was even bigger in 2017 than it was in 2016. While I loved wearing velvet clothing, my favorite way to wear velvet was, yes you guessed it, velvet sock booties.

#11 Fave DIY

Anyone who knows me know I’m obsessed with Halloween. This year was my favorite costume yet! It was hard to DIY a costume living out of a hotel but being a shooting star made me feel like I was attending the Met Gala.

#12 Fave new app

Kira Kira! Have you noticed everyone’s Instagram sparkling in 2017? Mine sure was! And, of course, the sparkle effect was perfect for my shooting stars costume.

#13 Fave photo shoot

Recreating Vanity Fair’s Hollywood Issue was pretty incredible. I can’t wait to hang with these babes more in the new year!

#14 Fave celebrity style

The chicest celebrity street style award goes to Selena Gomez. She inspired me with her casual cool looks from animal sweaters to modern button-downs.

#15 Fave recipe

I dabbled in recipes in the beginning of 2017. While I liked cooking, coming up with a recipe is very hard for me. I’m horrible with measurements! But my street corn was definitely a hit!

#16 Fave ways you wore it

Every year you guys impress me more and more with how you wear the trends from my Sydne Style Trend Guide. Some of the tops from this years #sstrendguide were @motherhoodandmerlot in an off the shoulder top, @barefootinla in flares, @ananyapujari in a newsboy hat, @sassyteacherchic and @panot711 in cold shoulder tops and @jens.fabulous.style in embroidered jeans.

#17 Fave insta quote

I keep inspirational quotes I find on Instagram in an album on my phone. Every now and then I’ll share one that really speaks to my on my own Instagram. I think this one by Hal Elrod from The Miracle Morning is the perfect saying to remember as we step into the New Year. I hope 2018 brings you everything you want!