Summer Accessory Report

Summer 2018 made its official debut last week, and as I post this, I'm looking through photos of our recent trip to Arizona. I hadn't been to the river in years, and a camping adventure with friends was exactly the perfect way to kick off the season. Our dog Nettie loved the water, and I'm hoping we can take her back every year and make it a tradition.

But let's bring it back to fashion! My favorite part of any season is of course the clothes! Summer stands out the most to me in terms of accessories. All I really need for a Summer wardrobe are some basic tops, a couple pairs of denim shorts, kimonos to add an extra layer in case I'm stuck inside with A/C, and a handful of dresses. It gets so extremely hot here that after about a month in, I struggle to come up with new ways to wear things and that's when accessories really come into play.


Here are the major trends of Summer 2018 that I'm wearing:

1. Opal
adds a touch of bohemian whimsy 

Elizabeth Stone

2. White
a neutral that pops against sunkissed skin

Greek Sandals

3. Fringe
playful movement to bring attention to the face

Stella & Dot sold out, but similar here on sale




4. Nautical 
Espadrilles for going on an adventure

Soludos Espadrilles

Other accessory trends I'm craving: 

turbands 

straw bags

medallion necklaces 

Click to Shop

What are your must-have accessories this Summer? Have a great weekend and check something off your bucket list!

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Style & Beauty Updates

Every year I shop the Nordstrom anniversary sale. Or shall I say, the #nsale? I've been doing so since college. However, blogging has really changed the game over the last couple years and now more people are aware of it. That's great! It's the perfect time to preview what the coming season will look like, and it's also good for picking up basics.  But I'm going to be frank - the constant barrage of bloggers posting about it has left a bad taste in my mouth and this time around, I placed a very small order. I tried on some things in-store and nothing really wowed me. It seems like styles I already own are still on trend for Fall so I passed on several things. You have to be strategic!

I did grab this candle set by Voluspa. I'm not very discriminating with scents as long as they actually permeate the room. This is a great deal because you get three candles for less than the price of two. Otherwise, I don't buy these at full price anymore.

This BLANKNYC suede jacket is on back order, but it will ship in a few days and considering how hot it is, I won't need it for a long time anyway. This is one item I knew I wanted even before the sale began. I was immediately enamored with the spice shade as it flatters my coloring. I sized up to a large after trying on the medium. It's worth it, feels like butter!

In my quest for longer lasting lip stains, I spotted these by the brand Pixi at Target. One end is the gel stain, while the other is a gloss. I've worn both shades (pink and berry) and love them. They feel smooth on the lips and the stain lasts all day. The gloss, not so much, but it feels really moisturizing. They look much brighter in the tube than they do on my lips, so don't be fearful if you're worried about too much color.

Lately I've been thinking about incorporating more of my weekday style into my IG feed. I've refrained in the past because my weekday wardrobe is redundant and I wasn't sure anyone would find it helpful. Would you guys want to see that? It won't take over my feed but I figure two or three times per week might suffice. Let me know! Here is one I posted on Tuesday.

I'm living in my Express barcelona camisoles, which sadly seem to be discontinued. I've also been wearing my flats again to switch up Summer sandals. I feel so much more put-together when I pair anything with flats!

Have a great weekend!

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Spring 2017: Feminine Colors & Details

 Soft neutrals with delicate details are going to take over my closet this Spring. Everything I seem to be "liking" on Instagram or "pinning" on Pinterest resemble a page from one of those flowery romance novels. I'm eyeing everything in shades of blush, taupe, light grey, and cream. Ruffles, bell-sleeves, velvet, suede, soft fabrics...I think you get the picture. Even my beauty products look similar! Some of the items shown below I have recently purchased, some are similar. and a couple are on my wishlist.

What are you loving?

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A Wedge Issue

I remember when I was in high school, I was irrationally self-conscious of my height, or shall I say, lack thereof. All of my girlfriends were much taller, with legs for days. So in an effort to fit in and be more like them, I wore the most hideous platform wedges I could find and I wore them almost every single day. My boyfriends would make fun of me, pointing out that even with a three foot wedge, I was still pretty damn short and they thought it was funny that I wore "blocks" on my feet instead of just accepting the simple fact that yes, I am short.

I'm not sure when it happened. Maybe college when I decided that stomping around campus was a waste of time and I was tired of getting blisters. I decided to try flats, and I've been hooked ever since. At some point, I accepted that I'm 5'2, and that it's okay to be shorter than a lot of other women. I may have trouble reaching the top of a shelf, but I can also squeeze myself into the back of an uber rather nicely. Being short does have its advantages, but I'll leave that topic for another day.

Back to wedges. I haven't owned a pair of real ones since college, but I'm starting to notice them this year for Summer and I think I may have to get a pair. Just one! I'm in search of THE perfect nude wedge that will go with literally everything. In honor of my guy friends from high school (bless their souls), one pair of "blocks" on my feet is enough.

Top Picks:

Sole Society Jenny Wedge

Charles by Charles David Arizona wedge

Shutz Francine Wedge

Steve Madden Nilla Wedge (on sale)

I also really LOVE these, but they are sold out in my size

Hinge Drea Sandal

Which of these is your favorite? I need some advice!

Will you be wearing wedges this Summer? Speaking of which, have a great Memorial Day! Enjoy, possibly wearing a fabulous pair of wedges.

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Mama Wants a Brand New Bag

I'm getting that itch again. The one where I get ridiculously obsessive about my next big purchase, and that always means a handbag. I've said it before - some women love shoes, some lust after diamonds, and some like myself well...it's all about that next beautiful bag to add to my (rather small) collection.

Here's the criteria:

• Must be practical and multi-functional
• In keeping with the upcoming Spring and Summer, I want one in a lighter color
• Which color have I narrowed it down to? Either beige, white, or blush
• I'm also in the market for a crossbody/saddle style. Trendy at the moment, but when it comes to bags in particular, the saddle bag comes back around every few years.
• Must be leather and of good quality because my bags are forever - quality over quantity
• Must be under the $400 range. As much as I'd love a Chloe, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, or Valentino, I just can't bring myself to save for one just yet. There are other pressing matters in life. I have to be realistic. 

I'm not one to jump at the chance to make a big purchase. I like to do some research, mull over my options, and then narrow the choices down to two or three. Sometimes I'll ask for others' opinions, but most of the time, I go with my gut because ultimately it's my money and I'm the one who is going to carry the bag! 

Some pretty options that are in the running:

Kate Spade 

Loeffler Randall

Michael Kors

Gigi New York

Milly

Which do you ladies prefer? It's hard to narrow down to just one! 

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Currently Loving

It's been a few months since I talked about the things that have been occupying my brain lately, but I really miss doing these so I hope you enjoy this quick read today! I'm sure many of you can appreciate a break from the usual outfit photos and beauty products, especially since it's almost time for the weekend and time to unwind.

So what am I loving? Marble! Everywhere I turn, I see the marble trend. Whether it be in decor or on jewelry, the pretty stone is inescapable. It's such a clean, simple way to accent anything and it looks so chic. Because it's neutral, you can incorporate it into practically every taste or range of styles. Who knows how long the trend will last, but for the time being, bring on the Instagram flatlays of anything on a giant slab of marble.

Lamp

Marble Tray

Iphone 6 case 

Stella & Dot Deja Vu studs (I own these)

Faux marble disc necklace

Watch

Throw Pillow

Do you like this trend, or is it getting a little cliche?

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My Must-Haves for Fall 2015

Let's get the elephant in the room out of the way, shall we? I live in southern California as you all probably know, and while I love it here, I really do wish that we could experience Fall properly like most of you do. I keep joking with all of my friends that Fall is a mythical term here, because it really doesn't exist. I do however like to pretend that I know what I'm talking about. It may not be cooling off anytime soon, but I try to incorporate as much Fall as I can by changing up my accessories and beauty products to reflect the new season.

I've asked my blogger friends from different areas of the country (and Canada) to compile their personal "must-haves" lists for Fall, but I will begin today by sharing mine. I am lumping mine into two categories, style and beauty. My list doesn't change much from year to year, but it's fun to reflect anyway. All of these are classically Fall, with one trendy piece thrown in.


1. A jewel toned bag

2. Light-weight cardigans

3. The cape 

4. Vamp nails

5. Red & wine lips

If you have any questions on specific products shown, feel free to ask! I decided not to describe why I chose these because I think they are fairly obvious and speak for themselves.

The second portion of this post will be up on Monday, and I can't wait to read how my list compares with my blogger friends.

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Review: TopShop Lace-Up Flats

One of the most notable trends of this Summer has been "the lace-up flat". I first noticed them on my favorite blogger, and then I continued to see them day after day on Instagram bloggers. Because I love wearing flats, I wanted in on this one. I live in flats during the week. They are comfortable and polished, and I don't have to worry about hobbling about from meeting to meeting in heels. But, are these lace-up flats just as effortless and comfortable as the norm? Are they worth the money? A little review for your consideration:

TopShop 

• To my surprise, these TopShop flats ARE just as comfortable as the others I own in my closet. They feel a bit loose upon first step, but once I tighten the laces, they are pretty damn perfect. They mold to my feet very well, and are supple and soft. For reference, I am 5'2, have narrow feet, and go between a 6.5 and 7 in shoes. These are only available in whole sizes, so I went with the larger size. I thought they would be too big, but they are actually roomy enough without my feet slipping.
• I will say that the laces ARE a bit of a pain to keep fastened. You have the versatility of being able to lace them both in the front of your ankle or the back, and I have seen them worn on others both ways. I prefer to tie them in a bow in the back, but that's just me. They look equally pretty and dainty tied around the front. After walking in them for any length of time, the laces begin to come undone for me. I do have ridiculously small ankles and maybe that plays a role, but this annoyance doesn't deter my purchase and overall recommendation for them. This may for some of you though. 
• I've worn them twice with jeans, and have yet to try them with a dress. That's the next step! 
• Although I would recommend them if this is a look you enjoy, I wouldn't spend a lot of money on them. Mine were only $50, so I didn't feel leery about being too spendy on a trendy shoe.  

More options here and here

So class, any other questions?

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Trends I Want to Try

I often look at street style trends with a skeptical eye. Most trends are just too...trendy. I'd rather invest in clothes that I can wear season after season (especially since the climate is so warm here in California as compared to other parts of the country). Buying something that will go out of style in a couple of months is really not my preference. One, because some trendy pieces are actually expensive and they don't suit my current budget, and two, because I like things that are more classic anyway.

As cute as they may look on others, you won't catch me in sneakers. I've never gravitated towards them, and the only time I can bear them is when I'm working out or watching Nate play on his dirt bike. You also won't find me in the off-the-shoulder tops and dresses that are making the rounds. I don't think that silhouette is flattering on me. I'm petite and a bit curvy, so a lot of what's "in" just doesn't look "right" on my body. The same goes for beauty. The top knot looks adorable on so many girls, but I look like a space alien with an orb coming out of my head.

However, there are some trends I am willing to give a go.

Lace - up flats

TopShop

Image via Pursuit of Shoes

Girlfriend jeans

H&M shown

But I love these

Lariat Necklaces

B.P. Nordstrom

 I own this and wear it like crazy. Plus, it's affordable.

Bucket bags

Mansur Gavriel

Less expensive option here

Finally, this is a trend but one that I know will last. I have been dying (and saving) for this bag.

What trends are you loving, and which ones are you loathing? I'd honestly love to hear your thoughts!

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Pinning Lately

 I don't know what it is, but I cannot get enough of Pinterest these days. Maybe it's because I'm spending too much off time on the couch, or maybe it's because I'm needing a style upgrade, but I have been loving it lately. I was a fiend during my wedding planning, but I didn't really have an account during that process. I would just search for things I needed, save them to a folder on my laptop, and print them out to show to friends, family, and vendors. Now that the wedding is over and I do have an account, it's naturally become directed towards fashion and beauty.

Here are some of my favorite pins from my boards. You may find them beautiful as well. I'll take one of each please!

3.1 Philip Lim via Nordstrom

via StyleBistro.com 

via lookbookstore

via Ellapparelblog.com

via fashionsy.com

found via Linkedin.com

via Elizabeth Stone Jewelry

(I have this ring in grey, but I just love the amethyst in this one)

via Lulus.com

via whowhatwear

Please leave me your Pinterest account below so I can check out your boards!

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