Showing posts with label outfit of the day & night. Show all posts
Showing posts with label outfit of the day & night. Show all posts

6.17.2019


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


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

6.11.2019

I've lived in Temecula almost all of my life, and yet I had no idea this beautiful garden even existed! Living in the suburbs, there are parks almost on every corner, but none as lovely as Rose Haven Heritage Garden.


Wearing // 


I think I saw an acquaintance post about the garden on her Instagram, so when we had a warm sunny day last week, Nate and I decided to go see it for ourselves. We were not disappointed! It's a lush sprawling property with walking paths, picnic areas, and rows upon rows of colorful flowers, succulents, and of course fragrant roses. The scent in the garden was incredible, I wanted to bottle it up! Even though there were quite a few people walking around taking photos, the garden felt very peaceful. Next time we plan on packing a light lunch and taking advantage of their picnic tables or gazebos. 

This pink pleated midi dress has definitely been loved since I bought it last Spring. I can't tell you how often I reach for it, especially on days when I want to look a bit dressed up. I'm happy to see that midi lengths are still really popular because they're so feminine and so my style! I've worn this dress with flat sandals on the beach, with high heels for a nice celebratory dinner, and now with wedge espadrilles in a garden surrounded by roses.

Where will it be worn next?

Linking up with I Do deClaire

6.05.2019

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 // 
Beauty //


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?

5.29.2019

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 // 


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. 


5.15.2019


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

5.08.2019

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!


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

4.24.2019


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.



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

4.22.2019

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.




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.

4.03.2019

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.



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

3.25.2019


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?