Little Me & My Twenties

When I was a kid, I pictured my twenties being amazing. I’d go out dancing with my friends at clubs and eat fancy food in restaurants with chandeliers. While I never had an older sister to admire, I had older cousins and babysitters. They, along with my excessive staring at fashion magazines, helped me imagine what my twenties would be like. Now, at 21, I hope to live out the younger me’s dreams. 

Shop ‘Til You Drop

As a fashion-lover through and through, I pictured myself shopping in a bustling town like New York City. I’d wear really extravagant, glittery outfits and drink cappuccinos. I didn’t know what those were at the time, but they seemed pretty fancy to me. I’d sip them and walk around shopping with my best friend. (We’d have matching accessories, of course!)

While I haven’t gone shopping in NYC with my friends yet, I’ve gone on a few trips with my family. We’ve been to the best thrift stores that surely would’ve knocked Fancy Nancy’s shoes off. As a 21-year-old, I hope to live (and thrive) in New York City as a fashion journalist. Then, I can shop my little heart out like I’ve always wanted to. 

Dancing Queen

As a kid, I dreamt of dancing the night away at the coolest clubs. I’d wear six-inch stilettos and twirl under a disco ball. The DJ would play fun party music and I’d sway to the beat. There’d be magical, vivid lights shining off the walls. When the club closed, I would travel back to my apartment and have the best sleep ever. 

In State College, I’ve been to The Basement and Stage West. These bars have a more club-like feeling to them with their designated dance floors. Little me would be glad to know I’ve had fun there. I don’t go out often, but when I do, I dance my problems away with my roommate and closest friends. I hope to go to more places like this in the future, as both little and big me love to dance.

Nights To Remember

I yearned for fancy galas and balls as a child. I was practically in love with Amy Adams’ wardrobe in “Enchanted.” Little me thought that it was a requirement to go to these extravagant events. I couldn’t wait to get older and flaunt my latest ballgown. I imagined myself speaking eloquently about the most important matters. (Did I know what those words mean? No, but I just pictured myself speaking “high-class.”)

This goes without saying, but the VALLEY launch parties are essentially the Met Gala. Fortunately, I’ve been to quite a few of them, and the fashion there is insane. I still hope to live in NYC and attend fancy events like a launch. When I’m there, I can truly live out my younger me’s dreams of twinkling lights and fabulous gowns. 

Our House

As a kid, I looked forward to my twenties as a celebration of friendship. I pictured my little city apartment that I would rent with my best friends. We would invite people over for celebrations, big and small. I would make my apartment into a home with craft decorations I made myself. Of course, we would have a rooftop or balcony, just in case we wanted to sit on top of the world. 

I’ve had the joy of sitting on an apartment roof with my best friend. (Ten out of ten feeling btw, would recommend.) While we don’t yet own a city apartment, our small college one makes me quite happy. As my twenties continue, I’m looking forward to when I fulfill this dream of friendship and life. I’m excited to do all the things little me wanted, and I’m proud to say I’ve got this far already.

What are your hopes for your twenties? Let us know @VALLEYmag on Instagram!

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