I love a maxi dress that I don't have to hem! I just started shopping online at Evereve and I'm really enjoying their selection of brands. I know it's a store that has been around for awhile, but it's new to me. I follow another blogger that featured this dress, so while I was looking at the website I had to control myself before I added a few things to my cart. This maxi dress in particular is by a brand called Roan + Ryan. It has a smocked bodice which is ultra comfortable, and it also has pockets! What is it about a dress with pockets that most of us seem to love?! The colors are beautiful as well.
6.22.2022
I'm still crazy for cutouts on dresses, so when I saw this Free People dress at the beginning of Spring I knew I wanted to have it. Except the actual dress I'm wearing below is from Forever 21! It looks exactly the same as the Free People cross of sunlight mini dress but for less. Unfortunately it sold out quickly and I can't find another look for less option, but the real deal is still available. for just under $80. Honestly, it's such a fun look that I do think it's worth it! It's incredibly easy to transition it from day (as I'm wearing here) to night by just switching out the shoes.
9.15.2021
It was my 37th birthday on Sunday and I couldn't wait to wear this black maxi dress from Abercrombie & Fitch. Yes, that's right - I, a 37 year old woman, wore A&F on my birthday. I'm telling you, they have really done a remarkable job at ushering in a new look and feel to their brand.
8.11.2021
Kimonos, dusters, kaftans, and cover ups have been trendy for many seasons, and they're still my favorite way to layer and add interest to any Summer outfit. Let's face it, unless you're on a tropical vacation, the heat doesn't exactly inspire creative looks! I think most of the time, we are all pretty intent on being comfortable and cool in the sun and humidity. But when we want to elevate our Summer basics, a pretty kimono is the easiest way to do that.
8.03.2021
Well hello! Long time, no blog. How are you doing? I hope you're enjoying your Summer as much as I have been. At the end of June, Nate and I went on a week long road trip with stops in Vegas, Utah, and Wyoming. It was such a great time that I plan on doing a little recap for you very soon. But until then, I'm back today sharing this romantic floral maxi dress I wore to go wine tasting.
5.19.2021
When we went into lockdown last Spring, I remember writing that dressing up was one of the (trivial) things I was missing the most. Now that things are finally getting back to normal, I'm wearing all of the pretty dresses I can to make up for lost time.
7.27.2020
5.20.2020
Before we start applying any makeup, don't forget the SPF: I go for a lotion that's oil-free and absorbs quickly, but it depends on your specific skin type. I also frequently use sunscreen as my regular body lotion and slather it on from head to toe pretty generously. Whatever brand you like, just make sure you use something to protect your skin.
Cheeks and Brows: Every women's magazine I've read recommends switching to cream blush during Summer, but it wasn't until I found cloud paint from Glossier that I happily bought into the idea. I use my finger to dot a small amount and blend out. It adds just the right amount of color, looks incredibly natural, and lasts all day. You can also top it with powder for even more color and lasting power, but I prefer not to. As for brows, I like a tinted gel that fills in sparse areas and keeps them in place. This doesn't create a defined brow, but it does help brows look more polished.
Eye Cream: I'm a big fan of eye cream in the morning, as it instantly adds moisture and therefore makes eyes look refreshed and awake. If you wear concealer, it also goes on more evenly if you apply an eye cream first.
Glossy Lips: Sheer, glossy lips are quintessential Summer aren't they? Easy to reapply, flattering on everyone, and just feels so good on.
Curl Lashes and Add Mascara: I've been skipping these steps on some days, but a little curl and a light coat of your favorite (waterproof) mascara is a must for many people.
Finish With Fragrance: This may sound ridiculous, but spraying perfume is my favorite part of my daily routine. Brushing my teeth, washing my face, applying makeup...the grand finale is being instantly uplifted by this beach-inspired fragrance.
With the long Memorial Day weekend coming up, maybe you can try a more minimal routine and take that extra time you'll save to enjoy some sun! I'll be back next week.
9.30.2019
Aside from cardigans, I think kimonos are great transition pieces for Fall. Most people associate them with Summer, but if you live in a warmer climate they are perfect for those in-between days.
9.20.2019
I wish I were better at transitional style, especially from Summer to Fall. The whole concept is sort of baffling if you live in a warmer climate and the truth is, Fall isn't really a season here in southern California. We get some relief from the heat now and then but by the time I get to enjoy it, Christmas is right around the corner.
The in-between can feel so frustrating when you can't decide what to wear! I spent a good amount of time yesterday trying on different outfits, feeling a bit defeated. But instead of throwing my hands up and complaining, I'm trying my best to embrace this predicament. I lived in dresses all Summer long, and just because my social media feeds are filled with lovely Autumnal outfits doesn't mean I can't wear my own version of Fall.
2) I also begin wearing flats again this time of year instead of sandals. They instantly read Fall to me. Ankle boots are naturally a good option as well. I love wearing mine with mini dresses for a more leg lengthening look.
3) When in doubt, the use of color will transition your wardrobe. Think orange, rust, mustard, olive, navy. Prints such as leopard, cheetah, and snakeskin are all big this year so incorporating them into your outfit is the easiest way to feel more seasonally appropriate regardless of your particular climate.
4) Layer, layer, layer. None of the outfits I created above are groundbreaking, I just added a jacket or cardigan to the dresses I've lived in this Summer. It really is that simple! Mornings and evenings are starting to get chilly, so having the option to add or remove a layer is practical and stylish.
5) If it's too warm for long sleeves, a kimono is a lightweight layering piece that still adds some visual interest to shorts, t-shirts, camisoles, and jeans. Even better if it's in a traditional Fall color.
I know retail calendars want us all to rush through each season, but that doesn't mean we have to! Changing a few details is all it takes to make the shift.
How do you navigate the in-between? By the way, do you like these type of indoor photos? Please let me know and have a great weekend!
9.13.2019
I thought about writing a big thought-provoking post about turning 35 - what I've learned so far, things I'd like to accomplish in the next 5 years, any regrets I've had or pearls of wisdom I could offer you...I just can't seem to gather them at the moment, so until I finally can, I'll just say that I'm thankful for all of you who stop by and read this blog. The confidence it's given me over the years, especially during really hard times, has proven invaluable. Thank you.
Now onto the outfit.
Some of you may be wondering if I've lost all of my pants. This is probably the 7th or 8th dress I've worn on and off the internet since the beginning of Summer, and while I totally realize I should switch things up a bit, I can't stop wearing them! Dresses are just SO easy, and nothing else makes me feel more put together. This is another little number by the Aussie brand MinkPink, and I bought it on sale from Shopbop a couple months ago with my birthday or wedding anniversary in mind. I love the flutter sleeves, the tie detail at the bust, and the way it hugs my curves. Everyone wants to feel good on their birthday and this dress did just that!
Nate took me to a restaurant in old town Temecula called The Nightingale. It was our first time, but it most certainly will not be our last! We didn't have a reservation but I recommend one on Friday and Saturday nights because it's a pretty small space. The atmosphere and decor were really romantic, the staff was friendly, and the food was delicious! We split the squid ink spaghetti and also got a cheese board because I live for them. I also loved their lavender infused cocktail - surprisingly good!
That's it for today but I hope to blog at least a couple times next week so I'll see you then! Have a great weekend. 💋