How To Dress Up A Kimono

Wearing // Similar kimono here, here & here, Similar cami, Old Navy Jeans, Sam Edelman pumps, Clare V bag

I love kimonos as an alternative to a cardigan or jacket when the weather warms up. I'm a pretty modest dresser, so having a light layer is a great way to feel a bit covered while not overheating. But let's be honest, kimonos are often reserved for casual weekend looks. I wore a couple last Summer over bathing suits by the pool or with denim shorts at outdoor music festivals. I never thought about dressing up a kimono for evening until I saw my best friend wearing them at different nighttime events.  I think the key is to keep the kimono the centerpiece of your outfit. Floral versions are my personal favorite, but some in fabrics such as lace also feel dressier for night. You can wear them with denim and classic pumps as I've done here, or you can wear one over a fitted dress and some metallic sandals. In fact, I saw a woman wearing her kimono over a black tank dress this weekend and she looked so pulled-together. The contrast of flowy and fitted is a formula to keep in mind with this trend. It's all about the mix.

I hope you ladies had a wonderful Easter! I'll be back tomorrow with some April updates so stay tuned.

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Skin Smoothing Favorites

We all want to look our best, and that means having great skin. It's one of the first things people notice, especially in photos. It would be nice if we were all blessed with it but I think I stand with the majority when I say I'm usually trying to conceal dark circles, discoloration, and an acne mark every now and then.

So what's a girl to do? Fake it! There's a new batch of products that are designed to help you achieve smooth skin relatively easily. I've been testing these and have discovered that not only are they perfect on-camera, but they keep you looking fresh and youthful off-camera as well.
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1. Tatcha The Silk Canvas -  Besides this being the prettiest packaged face primer I've ever seen, it's also the best I've ever tried. With my skin being rather oily, I was worried that this would create more shine. Thankfully it's for all skin types, oily included. It has a faint citrus scent and applies as a silky balm. It's slightly like other silicone primers I've used, but it absorbs much more quickly, doesn't feel as slick, and really provides a nice even base for makeup that lasts for a whole day.

2. Dr. Brandt No More Baggage - I use this as a quick fix on days where I have more puffiness under my eyes than usual. It's essentially an orange tinted gel that disappears onto the skin. It's cooling to the touch and dries to a smooth layer almost like a liquid bandage! You can feel it tightening as it dries. I know, sounds really weird but surprisingly effective. I then pat concealer on top for a well-rested appearance. This seems to go on sale frequently so look out if you want to give it a try.

Tarte Shape Tape -  Not necessarily skin smoothing but I just bought this concealer and so far, so good! It's a much thicker consistency than my NARS, and the coverage is perfect on acne marks and dark circles. I dabbed some on an old scar and it covered very well. This just might be my new holy grail! I'll do a proper review in two weeks.


Have you tried any of these products? I hope you ladies are having a fantastic week!

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Express Cardigan + Gingham Flats

There was a slight spring in my step last week, and I partly owe it to some new flats I recently added. Gingham seems to be everywhere, and although it's not a print I typically gravitate towards, the style and fit of these were too adorable to resist. I basically live in flats so when I see a pair I like, I know I'll wear them to death!

Wearing // Express cardigan, Similar cami, Old Navy jeans, Target flats

Beauty // M.A.C lipstick in Ravishing, Charlotte Tilbury palette

I've also been living in this cardigan that I've actually had since January. It's such a beautiful color that goes with all of the basics in my closet. I love pairing it with black, white, gray, and even blush. I find that when you have a simple way of dressing, branching out into different color combinations is the easiest way to liven things up without stepping out of your comfort zone. And with Spring temperatures around the corner, now is the perfect time to try some of the trends we'll be seeing in the next few months. I'm slowing incorporating some into my daily looks and I can't wait to show you ladies! I've already updated my "shop" tab if you want a peek at what I'm loving!

Are you shopping for Spring and Summer yet? What's on your radar? Linking up with Carylee and Rachelle today.

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Delicate Everyday Jewelry + Brands

 A few years ago, I loved wearing just one statement piece to dress up my everyday outfits. Remember the big floral necklaces, colorful cocktail rings, and chunky bracelets? Well I've mostly abandoned those in favor of dainty, delicate, and wearable pieces that can be mixed and matched, layered, or just worn as part of your signature style. I've always enjoyed the idea of collecting unique jewelry that is so simple and understated that you don't even need to take it off at the end of the day. It almost becomes a part of you.

I used to get so caught up in trendy pieces, and it's still tempting at times. But for the first time ever, I'm really happy with my downsized jewelry collection and I'm more particular about buying anything new. My rule is this: If I can't wear it on a daily basis, I know it's not for me. That doesn't mean I won't wear something more colorful or bold, but it has to have some versatility.

Stella & Dot Covet initial necklace, C.Henry crescent necklace, Ring Crush rings

Aside from what you see here, other brands that I love for beautiful delicate jewelry:

Elizabeth Stone
Lush Jewelry
Gorjana
Teressa Lane
Local Eclectic for a one-stop shop


I currently have my heart set on these:

 What's your jewelry style? I hope you ladies had a great weekend!

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