The Dress Everyone Needs

I rarely tell you ladies that you need a certain item I feature on my blog. I try to write from a perspective that we're all friends here, and I'm simply sharing little pieces of myself with you. I've never been much of a salesperson - I don't feel comfortable pushing products, and I don't want you here just for clicks and commission. Don't get me wrong, I'm always grateful when you like something enough to buy it for yourself, but in the great scheme of things, I don't rely on this blog for money or I would have stepped it up ages ago. My hope has always been that an outfit I style will inspire you in your own wardrobe. However, with all that being said - everyone needs this dress! 

Leith Ruched Dress

*Size Up One Size*

This ruched body-con dress comes in multiple colors, but I chose to go with a neutral. It's made from a stretchy cotton/poly blend, so it's incredibly soft and comfortable. The ruching at one side conceals a not-so-flat tummy while still showcasing your curves. I used to be so self-conscious of my hips and thighs that even the thought of a body-con dress made me cringe. I still prefer looser fit and flare styles, but this dress has made me appreciate my curves in a way I never have before. It's okay to own it! I truly think our bodies are amazing, and there's no reason to ever be ashamed of them!

Wearing // Leith Dress, Floral Kimono, Clare V Bag, Steve Madden Sandals, Stella & Dot Necklace

Beauty // It Cosmetics Blush, Charlotte Tilbury Lip Kit

I added this gorgeous ivory floral kimono for a light layer, but how cute will this dress be later in the year with a longer cardigan? I can't wait to style it in cooler weather.

This outfit was taken last week before Nate and I went to a "speak easy" in Old Town. It was such a cool experience! I'm fascinated by the prohibition era. My great grandmother was a flapper (seriously) and I like to imagine myself dancing to Cole Porter or Louis Armstrong. I think I would have fit right in!

Linking up with On The Daily Express, Straight A Style, and Pumps & Pushups. 

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Resort Vibes

Wearing // Cult Gaia bag, Similar dress, Steve Madden sandals, Stella & Dot bracelet, Kendra Scott earrings

Beauty // Lips by Charlotte Tilbury

The thing I love most about Summer is that everywhere I go, I like to pretend that I'm on vacation.  And every Summer Temecula gets an influx of tourists, especially out in the wineries where buses of people are constantly in rotation and parties hop from one winery to the next. On this particular night, Nate and I went out to dinner but stopped at one for a quick glass of wine. The path leading from the hotel to the winery itself was empty, so I figured it was a good time to snap some photos of my outfit. This dress (last seen here) is unfortunately sold out, but I found a beautiful option with a similar silhouette in case anyone is interested. I love easy dresses that can be dressed up with pretty heels, or dressed down as I've done here. I added my new poppy pouch from Cult Gaia that's still pricey on sale, but as I said on Friday, I'm over the moon for this dreamy pastel print and I just had to have it. I think it'll be perfect in Tulum next month.

I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend! I'm linking up with Rachelle today. 

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July Updates

Another week down in Summer - why does it always fly by? I wish I could stay on the beach for the duration! I'm sure most of you agree.

*I have friends who don't like sand, and honestly I cannot relate*

How's your Summer going? Mine has been pretty darn perfect, and while I'm basking in the sun (I'm currently writing this on my porch) I'll just go ahead and give you a few updates for the month...

San Diego, California

Carlsbad, California

Currently: We've been driving to the coast every weekend, and so far I've crossed off three things on my bucket list. Can you guess which ones? 

Travel: Nate and I are having quite exciting travels next month. My trip is for pleasure; my best friend and I are going to Tulum for 5 days! Nate's trip is all business; he's going to Beijing China for the entire month of September for a work project. We've been together for 12 years, and this will be the longest we've been apart. I'm nervous about being alone. I hate admitting that. 

On a related note, we both renewed our passports last week. Our photos are God-awful. I know everyone says that but I'm convinced we win! His looks like he escaped prison, I look like I had one too many martinis. For the record, Nate's never been to jail and I was fresh as a daisy that morning. Whatever. 

Shopping: I did buy a couple things from Nordstrom as well as this gorgeous printed pouch from Cult Gaia's resort collection. I just love the print! When I saw that this little pouch was on sale, I grabbed it. It's not very practical as an everyday bag, but I carried it in place of a clutch last night to dinner and it was the perfect size for a lipstick, cell phone, and card case. 

Events: We are going with friends to the Del Mar race track tomorrow! It's officially open for business, and by business, I mean their outdoor concert series. Are you guys into reggae music? I can't wait to sway to some with the sunset in the background. I'll try to share some of it on Instagram.

Goals: We are more than halfway through 2018, and although I do feel more satisfied overall with life and the positive attitude changes I've made, I think I'm in a slump. I don't feel as energized or as inspired as I want to be. It's frustrating but I know it won't last forever.


I hope you have a great Friday! I'll see you back here next week. Oh, and does anyone have any Tulum travel tips? Thanks in advance💗

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How I Shop The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

I've been going back and forth about the Nordstrom Anniversary sale, mainly due to all the chaos surrounding it. But after talking it over with Nate, I realized that I shouldn't be so sheepish about sharing my picks. Would I shop the sale if I wasn't blogging about it? Yes I would. So while I think the sale has oversaturated everyone's social media feeds, and it always feels ridiculous to shop for Fall in the dead heat of Summer... I hope my commentary is helpful to those of you who are interested! If not, come back later this week for a non #nsale post :)

I've been shopping the anniversary since college, and I've learned that you MUST go in with a budget and strategy, otherwise you'll feel overwhelmed. Last year, I was in the market for a nice jacket and that's exactly what I got. This year, I needed to replenish some dark denim. I made a list of items I wanted to try on, and I carried the list with me as I looked around each department. I also asked for assistance in finding certain things - I highly suggest tracking down one associate to help you on your quest. You can even book an appointment with a stylist, which makes the experience so much easier.

Also, focus on staples that you can wear again and again. For example, it's tempting to buy into all the trendy little blouses but how often will you wear them? Things like denim, jackets, cardigans, athleisure, heck even underwear, are your best bet. Leave the trends to other stores.

Wit & Wisdom Ab-solution jeans sale $44.90, after sale $68

They didn't have these in petite so I took an 8 regular and the fit is incredible (true to size). These jeans are so soft and they have a large black stretchy band hidden inside the waist that sucks you in. They are universally flattering, as I saw several of the Nordstrom associates wearing them as well and they looked great on everyone! As much as I love a little distressing, you can't go wrong with a pair of classic dark wash skinny jeans. Trust me!

Charlotte Tilbury The Pretty Pink Lipstick Set sale $60, a $90 value

I normally don't go crazy over the beauty items included in the anniversary sale, but because I've been wanting to try Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks, I gave this little set a go. The rosy hues and famous pillow talk lip liner have me so excited to wear them in my next outfit photos. 

Madewell Crossbody Bag sale $109, after sale $168

I had to order this because my store didn't have any in stock. The size, the color, and the fact that it has a zip closure to ensure all my things are secured inside make it an instant classic.

My Recommendations: A lot of things are already either sold out or have limited sizing, but call your store periodically for any re-stocks. I'm sure there will be plenty of returns so keep an eye out.

1. BlankNYC Suede Moto Jacket: I saw this in person and the color is more olive than it brown. It also comes in a gorgeous burgundy! I bought mine last year and it's one of the best purchases I've ever made for my wardrobe.

2. Olivia Moon Knit Blazer: I have an Olivia Moon black knit blazer from years ago, and it's still a great staple.

3. Gibson Convertible Cozy Fleece Wrap Cardigan: Gibson makes the softest cardigans (I have two of them) so I didn't pick this up but if you haven't tried the brand before, this looks like the perfect introduction.

4. Caslon Thermal Henley: I love the casual look of a thermal, and this color is so pretty.



Have you shopped the sale yet, or are you skipping it?

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