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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MINKPINK Wild Jasmine Tea Dress For Spring & Summer

As mentioned in my last post, I'm on a pretty heavy dress kick lately and this wild jasmine tea dress from MINKPINK is hands-down my favorite for Spring and Summer 2019.

Wearing // MINKPINK dress on sale, Steve Madden sandals, Clare V petite Alice bag, Gorjana coin necklace & Chloe mini necklace

Beauty // Lips are Becca Cosmetics glow gloss in Camellia

This is the second dress I bought with Palm Springs in mind. It's my first dress from MINKPINK but I'm so impressed by the quality and fit that now I basically want everything they make! I felt so comfortable in it that I wore it on the drive out to the desert, and then decided to stick with it for the remainder of our first day and night. It's light and airy, perfect for walking around the town and grabbing drinks at our favorite Mexican bar. 

I appreciate that it's fully lined for extra coverage, and the body of the dress has such a nice flow. The little flutter sleeves and deeper neckline give it a flirty feel without going overboard. I'm still able to wear a regular bra, but I did use a tiny bit of fashion tape as well since I brought it with me for my wrap dress. This dress has a generous fit so I would size down in retrospect, but my typical size was just fine for that carefree bohemian vibe I love. 

Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style

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A Wrap Dress For Spring

This Spring, I've been scouring the internet for little dresses that I can just throw on and go no matter the occasion. My lifestyle is fairly casual, but I still enjoy putting myself together and looking feminine - a dress is perfect for that. There are so many fun trends to choose from this year too; whether it's a midi length with buttons going down the front, floral frocks with layers of chiffon ruffles, long flowing maxis, or mini dresses with pockets and flutter sleeves. Trust me, I have several of these on my wish list! Living in SoCal, there's really no such thing as too many.

One style that I've always admired but have shied away from is the wrap dress. They've never seemed very secure to me, and visions of the dress completely coming undone in public is the stuff of fashion nightmares! But, I've also long been told that a wrap-style dress is the ultimate in figure flattery and who doesn't want that? Why not give it a try? Featuring a tie-waist and an A-line skirt, it hugs your curves in all the right places.

Wearing // Wrap Dress (size down in the dress) Soludos espadrilles, Clare V petite Alice bag, Gorjana sunburst coin necklace & Chloe Mini necklace

Beauty // Lips in L'Oreal "I Create"

I bought this adorable dress right before our weekend in Palm Springs. I love the long sheer sleeves and the ruffle at the hemline. It comes in a few different prints and colors but I opted for this orange hue because I like the warm tone with my dark hair. My only reservation is that I wish it had a snap closure because the neckline loosens up as you wear it, but that's not anything some fashion tape can't fix! I wore it out to dinner on our second night and I felt so feminine and curvy in it. I hope Diane Von Furstenburg would approve!

Do you own a wrap dress? I'm not entirely converted but I DO think everyone needs just ONE in their wardrobe. 

Linking up with Pink Sole today.

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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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Knotted Tee + Blush Skirt

 I only own a handful of skirts in my closet, and almost all of them are high-waisted. The one I'm wearing below is a fairly recent purchase from April, and the fit is so perfect that now I want everything that House of Harlow makes! It's fully lined, has a zipper on the side, and is the sweetest shade of pink.

The only problem, how should I style it?

Wearing // H&M shirt, House of Harlow 1960 skirt, Steve Madden sandals, Clare V bag

Beauty // Lips in Sara Happ Pink Slip gloss

My general rule for skirts is to pair them with a simple blouse, tucked in. This looks the most polished and proportional on most women. I tried a few options, but they all bunched up terribly, so I went for a white t-shirt instead and knotted it at the side. I loved the effect! The side knot gives the illusion of a tiny waist, and the ruching it creates is also slimming. Plus, no worries about adjusting my top throughout the day! I think it's perfect for casual Summer outfits, and now I want to try it with a maxi skirt I don't get enough use from.

 What do you think of the knot tee trend? It's probably on its way out and I'm just now getting it!

Linking up with Rachelle and Carylee. 

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Pretty in Pink

I first saw this Ann Taylor dress on my lovely friend Lilly, and lovely is exactly right in describing how I feel in it.

It's one of those "you can't stop me from doing a twirl" types. Even Nate put down the camera here to grab my hand and spin me around (too bad there was no one around to capture the moment, but maybe that's just as well).

Wearing // Ann Taylor dress, Sam Edelman pumps, Clare V bag, Stella & Dot ring

Beauty // Lips in Glo Skin Beauty "Bloom"

I love a flowy dress, especially one that can transition from day to night, and from formal to casual depending on what shoes and bag you choose. The length is also nice, not quite midi but very close. The cinching at the waist and the soft pleated panels give the dress a wonderful romantic vibe that I love in the Spring and Summer.

Speaking of romance, did you guys watch the royal wedding? I only saw clips, but they were enough to bring tears to my eyes. I know a lot of people couldn't care less, but Harry and Meghan just seem so genuinely in love that it's hard to turn away from! Plus, I don't know about you, but my mother was infatuated with Princess Diana! This wedding has ignited something in me, and now I can't get enough of reading more about Diana's life. Her legacy in the boys she so loved is incredibly sweet and inspiring, and I'm happy that they are doing well in life after the loss of their mother.

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The Perfect Spring Top

Wearing // Chicwish top, Old Navy jeans, Steve Madden sandals, Kendra Scott earrings, Clare V bag

Beauty //  Lips in M.A.C. "Hot Gossip" mixed with Glo Skin Beauty gloss in "Pueblo"

Hey ladies, I hope everyone had a beautiful Mother's Day over the weekend. Nate's parents are enjoying a whirlwind trip throughout Europe so it was a low-key celebration this year with my mom. We took her out to brunch and then stopped at the wineries, naturally. It's so hard to resist spending time there when everything is in bloom and it's literally perfect outside!

I'm still in that transitional phase of Spring where I feel most comfortable in jeans, but I've switched out my sweaters in favor of breezy little tops. I love ones like this that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. When I don't know what to wear, my best bet is to throw on a variation of a t-shirt and jeans, but done in a more feminine silhouette. This top is really nice because it doesn't require a cami underneath. It is partially lined, and I wish all brands would pay attention to details like that when designing their pieces. It truly is a "throw on and go" blouse but with a little more flair. The result is pulled-together and polished (which should really be my blog name at this point!)

How's Spring coming along where you live? I wish I could travel right now and take a vacation somewhere before the heat sticks around.

Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style

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New Spring Try-Ons

I love reading fitting room reviews, but I never think to do my own when I'm out and about shopping. Plus, I don't go into stores that often anymore as I'd much prefer ordering online.

There have been a lot of great sales lately, and I decided to add a couple new things to my Spring and Summer wardrobe. Below, I linked everything that is "new." I'm really happy with my additions and I can't wait to show each piece in detail in upcoming posts.

ChicWish top, Old Navy jeans, Target flats

I have been eyeing this gorgeous lace top since seeing it on a few of my favorite bloggers including Amy Ann. I was nervous about the sizing but I got a L/XL and it fits like a size 8/10 which is typically what I am. The quality is much better than I expected, so I'm keeping ChicWish on my radar. The flats are from Target and they are so comfortable! The jeans are a second identical pair that I already own from Old Navy. The fit and style are perfect, and with a sale, I got them for $25. 

1. State camisole

This camisole is pricey, but I wear them so often that the cost per wear justifies the price. I am wearing a size medium and it's true to size. 

Ann Taylor dress

I got this during a 40 % off sale. For sizing reference, this is an 8 petite and it fits true to size. It's the softest material and ultra-flattering with the cinched waist and tiered paneling. My inclination is to dress it up, but I can also see myself dressing it down with sandals and a large tote. It's just beautiful!

Do you guys like this type of post once in awhile? I hope you're having a great week!

Linking up with I Do DeClaire

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Adding Yellow To Your Wardrobe

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

Now that it's nearly May, my calendar is starting to fill up with fun outdoor events. Because of this, I'm really feeling much more inspired in the clothing department. I often struggle with creativity, but the promise of Summer gives me that extra kick I need to assess how I'll be styling pieces, both new and old. One way I get inspired is by the use of color, and this year I am loving yellow! Bright marigold (especially as an accent) paired with white and denim. I don't think there's a happier hue.

Wearing // 1.State top, Old Navy jeans, Clare V bag, Old flats but Similar here & here, C. Henry necklace

Beauty // NARS Sex Machine lips, Kai perfume

I'm sometimes intimidated of vibrant colors, but in small doses it can look so fresh and youthful. Yellow is one of those shades that just makes people smile, so why it's not more popular is beyond me! It looks beautiful on everyone, but if you're a little shy like I am just start with an accessory first. Then, watch your mood instantly lift 😊

Linking up with Pink Sole & More Pieces of Me

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How I Do Spring

Wearing // Old LOFT dress (love this & this) Steve Madden sandals, Clare V bag, Gorjana rings

 I always struggle with sharing clothing that isn't available any longer, but I'm coming to the realization that a personal style blog should be...about my personal style. The point isn't about buying an exact item I feature, but to hopefully provide ideas more than anything. And can we all agree that everyone should own a flirty little day dress? I think so! 

I bought this printed dress from LOFT last year, and I've worn it to a baby shower, bridal shower, and out on the weekends. The flutter sleeves and flounced hem give it extra movement which I love. I normally prefer fit and flare dresses on my body, but once in awhile I like to try something different.  I'm not as comfortable in shorts so dresses are my go-to in Spring and Summer when temps easily hit over 100. I throw on some suede sandals (I have these in nude and black as well), a neutral bag, and simple gold jewelry to look put-together with honestly no effort! The warmer months should be all about ease. What's your favorite Spring outfit?

Linking up with Gina, Amy Ann, and Brooke

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