Daily Ritual T-Shirt Dress & Nordstrom Sale Buys

I hope everyone enjoyed my little break from style and beauty talk as I shared my road trip experience. I'm still working on a wrap-up post to tie everything together because I still have so many thoughts! But until then, I'm excited to get back to it with this Daily Ritual t-shirt dress I've been wearing on repeat.

Before my road trip, I bought this easy t-shirt dress by the brand Daily Ritual. I originally saw it on my friend and fellow blogger Gina, and it just looked so incredibly comfortable! Perfect for long drives, travel days, running errands, grabbing coffee with a friend, as a swimsuit coverup - so many options!

Wearing // Daily Ritual t-shirt dress, Steven sandals, Clare V bag, H&M scarf, Gorjana necklace

It's one of those items that you'll constantly reach for. Wear it with some sandals now, pair it with a utility jacket or long cardigan come Fall. The fabric (rayon and spandex) is soft and stretchy, and it hugs curves without feeling constricting. An issue I've had in the past with t-shirt style dresses is that they were either too clingy, or they draped too loosely. This one strikes the ideal balance. I got my normal size medium and the fit is perfect. I rarely say that you guys need something I feature, but in this case, if you're searching for a versatile dress then look no further.


Before I go, I quickly wanted to share what I got from the Nordstrom anniversary sale this year. The clothes and shoes didn't tempt me too much, although I did get a Barefoot Dreams circle cardigan and I love it! It'll be awhile since I can wear it, but I've been curious about these cardigans for a couple years and I totally get the hype now that I have one. I got mine in the pearl shade which is a soft grey. The fit is true to size.

I was most excited about the Charlotte Tilbury products so I got both the Pillow Talk Lip Kit as well as the eyeshadow palette. I'm a huge CT fan but her products are quite expensive. I used all of them yesterday and am really happy with the colors and quality.

I know the sale feels overhyped, but I find it's best to tune out all of the noise and shop it on my own. Did you get anything from the sale? Have a great weekend and I'll see you here on Monday!

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Those Summer Weekends

Is there any greater feeling than a weekend well spent? Especially when said weekend included a delicious Italian dinner, great wine, catching up with friends you haven't seen in awhile, and long walks? That's a rhetorical question.

Summer weekends are my absolute favorite. Everything seems more relaxed, even if there's a lot to be done. Lately, I start my Saturday and Sunday mornings by sitting on our front porch drinking coffee and planning out the week ahead. It's a great way to sneak in some productivity while still being a little lazy!

My casual Summer weekends reflect a wardrobe to match. Luckily it's still cool enough to wear jeans, and hey even if it wasn't cool enough, I'd still do it.

Wearing //

Old Heartloom top, similar here

LOFT petite jeans

Soludos striped flat espadrilles

Madewell mini transport tote

Gorjana amara rings

I'll always be a jeans and t-shirt girl, but even better when I can take them up a notch. I've had this lace off the shoulder top for a few years (last seen on the blog way back here) and it almost didn't make the cut when I cleaned out and organized my closet a couple weeks ago; I'm relieved I didn't donate it! Off the shoulder tops can be tricky, but I still think they are fun to wear in the Summer when you're tired of the same old tank tops and tees. As we begin to transition from Spring to Summer and the weather heats up, it's nice to have certain special pieces in your wardrobe. These striped espadrilles are another example. I could live in sandals all Summer, but sometimes I don't want to bother getting a pedicure so espadrilles are a great stand-in! In fact, I wore them so much last year that they inspired me to get these cream colored wedges you've already seen. 

I hope you ladies had a great weekend and Father's Day. Father's Day is tough for me because although I'm blessed to have my dad in good health, our relationship has always been very strained. We take one step forward, then like five steps back. I called him yesterday and we spoke briefly, but I still cried afterwards like I always do. Acceptance is something I work on every single day. That's all we can do, right? Anyway, I'm sending hugs to those of you in a similar situation. Unfortunately there are more of us than not these days...

Linking up with Pink Sole

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Summer Staples // Lace Kimono Top + Jeans

I feel I'm in my element when I'm outside in the beautiful warm sunshine, on a patio or deck, chilled glass of white wine in hand. I did it this past weekend, and I'd like to do it every weekend from now until eternity.

It was a nice little taste, but Summer isn't quite ready just yet. We're still in the transitional phase, but every day I'm more and more excited about wearing some of the new pieces I've bought recently. I like to call them my Summer staples because I know I'll be wearing them all season long.

Wearing // 

Lace Kimono Top

LOFT jeans

Madewell tote

Steven sandals

North Star layering necklace

Beauty //

Glossier Boy Brow

Glossier Cloud Paint in Dusk

Milani highlighter palette

Let's start with this kimono style top. I bought it blindly online from a boutique called Ooh La Luxe. They have a great range of bohemian style pieces, and while browsing their new arrivals section I fell in love with the top's white lace, billowy sleeves, and tie front. It's completely sheer so I suggest a nude camisole or even bodysuit underneath. Tops that are a little more interesting than your average plain tee are great this time of year. I wore it with some lighter wash jeans from LOFT, flat cognac sandals, and a fun lilac tote for a bit more color. All of these are basic staple items that will get a ton of use this Summer.

What are some of your Summer staples?

Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style

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Styling Floral Kimonos + New Bag

Happy last week of May! I hope you all enjoyed the long memorial day weekend and are feeling grateful, recharged, and excited for the beginning of Summer. We had a pretty lazy three days, but I was able to spend some time with girlfriends and that's always good for the soul. We also watched motocross, went to a winery, did some cleaning around the house, and of course took some blog photos.

Wearing // 

Sole Society floral kimono

Leith bodycon dress

Steven sandals

Madewell mini transport tote

It rained most of the weekend but Saturday was gorgeous! It was sunny and in the mid 70's so naturally I wanted to be outside all day. I reached for a long floral kimono from Sole Society to layer on top of a basic bodycon dress. I'm a huge kimono fan, as they look so feminine over form fitting dresses, shorts, or jeans. As long as the rest of your outfit is streamlined, a flowing kimono is a fabulous way to add dimension and movement. I've purchased a handful the last few Summers, but this print is by far my favorite. I love the blues, greens, and pinks against the white background. It really looks and feels effortless. More styling ideas here and here.

Another thing I quickly want to mention is my new lilac bag. I don't buy handbags very often, maybe one or two per year but I'm always looking for one that's moderately priced, fairly durable, and versatile. This one by Madewell fit the bill. It is such a practical little tote and I can't emphasize that enough! It can be carried by the handles, over one shoulder, or worn crossbody style. If you're in the market for a pretty Summer bag, I highly recommend one of the lighter colors but it also comes in black and cognac as well.

How do you feel about kimonos? I see them everywhere!

I'll be back on Friday with my monthly edit 💋

In the meantime, linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style. 

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Shopping Diaries Vol. 2

I started this series back in February as a way to share the things I add to my closet throughout the year. You'll notice that Spring is my favorite season to shop, with the promise of Summer just around the corner. These are all items that I have purchased since February 22nd, when my first volume was posted. Some of these I've already worn, and some I haven't because it's still too cold. I've included exact links in case you want to view each individual item. If you have any questions, let me know!

North Star Layering Necklace: My friend has a similar celestial necklace I admire, so naturally this caught my eye. I love that it's all one piece! I plan on wearing it with my bathing suits for some daytime sparkle at the beach.

Madewell Mini Transport Tote: I purchased a similar Madewell tote during last year's Nordstrom anniversary sale, but I was disappointed with the color and I didn't care for the perforated leather. Back it went. This tote however is beautiful! The soft lilac color is unique, and the size is ideal. I'm glad I gave Madewell bags a second chance.

Steven Greek Sandals: I already have a pair in white from last Spring, and I enjoy them so much that I got another in cognac. Comfortable, chic, and versatile. They are pretty narrow so if you have wide feet, I recommend sizing up.

Target Leopard Print Bikini Top: Target has long been my go-to for bathing suits, and this leopard print bikini top will mix in nicely with a black bottom I already own. Separates definitely work best for most women!

Sole Society Floral Kimono:  I live in kimonos during the Summer heat. The print on this one by Sole Society will be so pretty with just a simple white tee and jeans.

LOFT Camisoles: Camisoles are great for layering underneath kimonos, cardigans, and jackets. I needed to replenish mine so I bought two from a LOFT sale - one is black and white striped, and the other is a cream color with a scalloped neckline. I got both in my normal petite size.

Ann Taylor Dress: I've already featured my new favorite dress. I think it would be amazing for baby showers, graduations, the office, church, dinners, birthday parties...where isn't it appropriate?!

Ooh La Luxe Lace Tie Top: Tie-front tees are still going strong this year, and this white lace top will be a fun weekend basic I'm sure I'll wear on repeat.

Old Navy High-Rise Elevate Leggings:  I got these for half off, and I absolutely want another! These are the best compression leggings I've tried. They really hold you in and are great for jogging and walking the pup. I went up one size.

What have you been shopping for lately? Are there any trends you're loving? 

Linking up with Gina and Amy Ann.

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Casual Denim For May Grey

Wearing // Lush roll sleeve top, Similar Old Navy rockstar jeans, Similar sandals, Clare V bag, Similar silk scarf, Jewelry featured in this post

Although May is one of my favorite months, I often find myself at a loss in terms of what to wear. We have experienced a lot of grey days complete with some rain, and I've actually been keeping a jacket in my car just in case I get caught in a passing storm. I guess that's to be expected in Spring, and I do really enjoy the mix of warm and cold days. Getting dressed for it? Not so easy!

I've had this roll-sleeve top from Lush for a few months and it's probably the most comfortable one I own. It looks great with leggings and skinnier denim because of the long length. It also is ideal for hiding a food baby! I'm a bit on the fence with the jeans I'm wearing here. You know I love my Old Navy rockstar skinny jeans. I went into the store last week to buy a new pair of their elevated leggings for the gym, and these were hanging on a rack by themselves. They are the short length that I normally buy, but they are a size up from what I go for and they stretch out a ton. They were only 12 dollars and I've worn them twice already, but I think I'm going to designate them as my "lazy Sunday" jeans. They just don't look or feel fitted enough for my taste, but they are super comfortable and again, great for a casual weekend when we are just running errands and hanging out at home.

Do you have certain jeans that you only wear on the weekend? What are some of your favorite brands? I really want to try Madewell.

Linking up with my friends Gina & Amy Ann

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My Wearable Everyday Jewelry + Tips

I wrote a similar post on my everyday jewelry last year, but I wanted to update it because I've added to my collection since. Specifically, there are two necklaces that I absolutely love wearing and I wanted to share them with you in detail.

My current jewelry philosophy is all about simplicity, pieces that you can wear alone or layered and that offer just the right amount of sparkle. It's that little twinkle peeking out from a basic white tee, that shine of gold across the fingers. Jewelry is the ultimate way to tie a look together and elevate your daily outfits. My goal is to always look polished but effortless. The pieces below in some combination are what I reach for - sometimes I wear one or two, sometimes I wear them all at once.  I'm including exact links too!

Pier 1 marble ring dish

Bar Studs: I've had my ears pierced since I was baby but I rarely wear earrings. My earlobes are sensitive, so I usually have to wear real gold or earrings with hypoallergenic posts. When I do wear them, I reach for these gold bar studs. They are comfortable (I've even slept with them on) and weightless! They're the perfect everyday earring and look so sweet no matter what other jewelry I decide on pairing them with. They also look more current and more unique than a basic gold or diamond stud.

Stacking Gold Band: Some people stack bracelets, I like to stack rings. A thin gold band is a great addition when you're wearing more than one ring because it doesn't compete for attention. I like wearing mine on my pointer finger.

Raw Herkimer Diamond Ring: I love gemstone jewelry. During the Winter I go for labradorite and pearls; during the Summer I prefer moonstone, turquoise, and opal. The great thing about this herkimer diamond ring is that it goes with everything!

Coin Necklace: Coin necklaces have been trendy for the better part of two years, and I'm completely on board with them. Whatever your style, they look chic on everybody. Mine is by Gorjana and it's called the sunburst coin necklace. It has a tiny opal in the center that reflects light beautifully. I wear it all.the.time. I let it be the focal point of my jewelry look because it's such a pretty piece. It's completely adjustable as well, so I like moving the length up and down depending on the top I'm wearing.

Gold Choker or "Mini" Necklace: Chokers or mini necklaces are the perfect layering piece. This one has a lot of movement so when the discs catch the light just so, it's sparkle city! It's the perfect base for a delicate necklace look.


My rule of thumb for choosing what jewelry to wear is to begin with one piece that you want to focus on, and then let the other pieces act in accordance to compliment it. Sometimes I think people overdo it with a ring on each finger, 3 or 4 necklaces, stacks of bracelets. I mean it's a little much right? Like a little girl playing dress-up in her mother's closet. Pick a couple rings, 1 or 2 necklaces, the gold bar studs, maybe a simple beaded bracelet or gold cuff. It looks effortless, but also intentional.

What are some of your favorite pieces of jewelry? Is there a brand you love? Have a great weekend, I'll see you back here soon 💗

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The Perfect Periwinkle Dress For Petites

Every season, I update my wardrobe with key pieces that I know I'll wear over and over again. It's safe to say that this Spring I've been all about adding a few new dresses into the mix. I just find them to be so effortless, flattering, and versatile. For example, on cooler days, I reach for a denim or moto jacket to layer on top. On warm days, I throw on some sandals and a straw bag and head to the wineries! Not like the weather matters though...

One of my favorite brands for petite-friendly dresses is Ann Taylor. Last year, I fell in love with a similar blush pink midi dress. I've worn it countless times and at various events and gatherings so when I saw the updated version I ordered one right away. No longer midi, this year's dress comes to my knees. Instead of a soft shade of pink, this year the color is an icy periwinkle blue. I also prefer this neckline, which can be worn open to show off a necklace, or snapped closed for a more modest look. I honestly can't think of a single instance where this dress wouldn't be appropriate!

Wearing // Ann Taylor dress, Similar sandals, Clare V. bag, Stella & Dot cuff, Elizabeth Stone 
necklace

Nate and I took these photos last weekend at Fazeli Cellars. and tons of prom-ready young ladies and gents were also snapping and posing away. Just let the record show that I wore a light blue dress to my own prom in 2003, so some things never really change! I can however order a glass of pinot grigio now.


Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style

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The Spring Staple Every Closet Needs

When you think of Spring fashion, what comes to mind? I think for most of us Spring inevitably means florals, lighter neutrals, pastels, and open toe shoes. But what about a denim jacket? There's definitely room in every closet for this great Spring staple, and you'll likely reach for it more often than not as a lightweight layer.

Wearing // Old Navy denim jacket, House of Harlow 1960 skirt, Cult Gaia bag, Soludos espadrilles

This denim jacket is a recent purchase from Old Navy. They currently have a few different styles and washes, but the boyfriend or relaxed fit worked best on me. My favorite way to wear it is over little dresses and skirts, but you can style one with practically anything:

Throw one over shorts and a slim tee for a casual weekend look.

Layer one over a smart black jumpsuit and a pair of wedges.

Tied around your waist over a tunic and leggings or joggers for running errands.

Mixed with other shades of denim, especially white, black, and olive.

Over maxi dresses, mini dresses, floral dresses, white dresses, any dress!

Have I convinced you? That's a rhetorical question. 

I hope everyone is having a great start to April! Nate and I are heading to Palm Springs this weekend...I'm so excited! I want lazy pool time, margaritas, and beautiful desert sunsets. I'll be back next week with some fun posts.

Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style

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My Favorite Shoes & Bags For Spring

My favorite part of transitioning from Winter into Spring clothing is being able to pull out my warm weather accessories. Making the switch isn't always easy, especially during the in-between - one day it's raining and cold, the next it's sunny and warm. Shoes, handbags, and jewelry is a great way to incorporate a new season when the weather's not entirely ready to make up its mind! I always start with accessories. 

Below are my absolute must-haves for Spring. 

1. White Slingback Flats

They add instant polish to any outfit

2. Wedge Espadrilles

Flattering and easy to walk in

3.  Heeled Sandals

Everyone needs a pair of these minimalist shoes. So chic!

4. Simple Sandals 

I liked these Steve Maddens so much last year that I bought another pair this year in camel

5. Pastel Pouch

This is a unique bag, which is why I enjoy carrying it! I use mine as I would a clutch

6.  Straw Bag

Love it or hate it, the straw bag is still going strong. It goes without saying I still love mine

I've had most of these items since last Spring, so I'm happy that many of the same trends are still relevant now.  Shop my picks below.

What are your favorite Spring shoes and bags?

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Spring Forward

Oh hey guys! I'm sorry I was M.I.A. last week but I didn't have much to say! I used to beat myself up over lack of posting but I'd rather only do so when I'm actually in the mood. And let me tell you, I'm definitely in the mood after having such a beautiful weekend. It truly felt like Spring...nicest weather so far this year. I'm also thoroughly enjoying the time change.

Wearing // Cece floral blouse on sale, Similar Old Navy rockstar jeans, Soludos espadrilles, Similar red bag

Nate and I did quite the running around. We drove up to Los Angeles on Saturday to visit my dad's side of the family and it was lovely. Sunday we celebrated a friend's birthday brunch on the Queen Mary in Long Beach. I wore this pretty floral blouse on BOTH days...no judgment okay?! The unexpected warm-up threw me off in the best way possible. It was a perfect 80 degrees and sunny, zero clouds in sight. What better way to transition into Spring than by wearing something floral? The little red flowers and ruffled sleeves looked great with my lighter wash jeans and wedge espadrilles. I ordered them during the Shopbop sale and absolutely love them. Here's hoping for more sunny days ahead!

Is it feeling like Spring yet where you live?

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