Dressing Down A Feminine Pleated Skirt

In the blink of an eye, it's August!

We came back from Ohio last Wednesday, and the heat promptly greeted us in San Diego. I really thought the humidity in Ohio would get to me, but it was actually pretty mild in comparison to years past. August and September are by far the hottest months in Temecula, so like clockwork, this is the time where I have to start getting a little creative with my style and beauty routines. Nothing fussy, just simple, practical, breathable...you get the idea! When Summer's in full swing, it's hard to imagine getting too done up. Instead, I focus on dressing certain items in my closet down so that I look and feel more comfortable and relaxed.

Wearing // Target t-shirt,  Revolve x House of Harlow skirt in a gorgeous blue and here in red for $20, Steven sandals, Clare V bag, Elizabeth Stone necklace

Beauty (hair) // Ouai wave spray and Oribe anti-humidity spray from this set

I've worn this pretty pleated skirt countless times since I bought it last year, but this was the first time I dressed it down with flat sandals and a small straw bag. My inclination with skirts is usually to dress them up with heels, but there's no reason why I can't wear them with more casual accessories. I think it looks fresh for Summer, and then I have more opportunities to wear pieces that I save for specific events or occasions. I've recently seen a ton of my favorite style bloggers wearing basic t-shirts with beautiful skirts - whether the skirt is pleated like mine, a sophisticated midi length, or just any skirt you may already have in your closet that you neglect because it's considered a dressier piece. Pair it with a soft t-shirt, your favorite sandals or slip on sneakers, and a great bag and you have the perfect Summer outfit that you can wear almost anywhere! I knotted my tee in the back so I didn't have to tuck it in but whatever's comfortable for you is key. 

How do you dress down in the Summer? Linking up with Pink Sole

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Little Red Ruffle Dress

The thing I love wearing most during the Summer are little lightweight dresses in various colors, silhouettes, and prints. They are just so easy to throw on and go, seemingly appropriate no matter the occasion. They're also just really feminine and pretty.

I ordered this red ruffly number while I was on the road in Utah, and it was waiting on my doorstep upon our return. It's unfortunately already sold out so I can't link it, but I've had some great luck with the boutique I bought it from and you should definitely check them out for similar dresses. The store originates in northern California so a lot of their pieces have that breezy bohemian feel. By the way, I'm not being sponsored by them! I found them on social media and immediately loved their selection of fun clothes, especially with hot Summer nights in mind. I try not to miss an opportunity to dress up a little.

Wearing // Ooh la luxe dress, Madewell bag, Steve Madden sandals, Gorjana necklace 1 & 2

Beauty // Fenty Beauty setting powder, Ouai wave spray

 Considering it's almost August, we are officially in the thick of Summer, although our weather in SoCal sounds downright mild in comparison to what some of you may be experiencing back east! Nate and I leave for Ohio on Saturday, so I'll be joining in on the humid, sticky heat soon. It'll be a quick 5 day visit, but just enough time to enjoy family in another part of the country. I hope your Summer is going just as well! Honestly, mine has been incredible so far. More thoughts on it in my next post...

In the meantime, I'm linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style 

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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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Why I'm Loving Espadrilles

I've never really been much of a shoe girl. I know I know, I'm just waiting to get my style card revoked! Don't get me wrong, I love shoes. I admire them like little works of art. I just don't feel the need to own many pairs, and I choose comfort above everything else. Gone are the days of trying to make stilettos happen. I failed pretty miserably at walking in them in my twenties, and now that I'm almost thirty-five and am no longer so preoccupied with what others think, I choose my footwear more wisely. Ballet flats at a bar on a Saturday night? Oh yeah, I do it.

I really believe that a few pairs of classic, practical shoes can help support any wardrobe. A pair of flat sandals, a neutral wedge, some black suede pumps, and a pair of...espadrilles? I did a little digging and it turns out that espadrilles have been around since the 13th century! They look so modern, and yet they're actually a classic shoe.

Wearing //

MinkPink tea dress on sale (runs large)

North Star layered necklace

Soludos wedge espadrilles

Madewell mini transport tote

Beauty //

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Fenty Beauty Powder in Lavender 

L'Oreal Lip Ink in "I Create"

These canvas lace up beauties have a wedge, but I also wear my flat pair quite a bit. The fibre sole is very soft and flexible, so they are super comfortable for walking. They look so chic and feminine when worn with a dress, but they also pair well with jeans and shorts for a casual cool vibe. I know they're making the rounds on social media and are very trendy at the moment, but I find them to be an essential Spring and Summer shoe. I am partial to the brand Soludos, but many designers have a version. If you haven't already, give them a try!

Linking up with On The Daily Express, Straight A Style

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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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Rose Haven Heritage Garden

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 // 

Ann Taylor dress, pretty midi dress here on sale

Soludos espadrilles

Clare V petite alice bag

Gorjana rings

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

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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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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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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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