Floral Kimono & Pink Mini

This floral kimono is one of my favorite purchases of Summer, and I've worn it repeatedly with everything from dresses (last seen here), to jeans and a cami, to denim cutoffs, and here with a knotted tee and mini skirt. If you haven't tried the kimono trend yet, I mean...why not? I own three and cycle between them constantly. Depending on the print/color/length, there's something for everyone. I wear mine over a bathing suit as well and it's just the right amount of coverage.

Wearing // Morning Lavender kimono, H&M tee, Similar skirt, Clare V bag, Similar flats, Similar earrings on sale

It's funny how much my attitude has changed over the years regarding which outfits to share on this blog. Not too long ago, I would spend quite a bit of time carefully picking each item, worrying if the look was unique, inspiring, or conveying a particular mood. Now I feel much more comfortable in just showing you ME, and it doesn't have to be tied to some perception I want to put out there. I used to obsess over every little detail, and God forbid I repeat wearing the same things too frequently. I've seen the light finally this year and now I realize the value I'm getting out of simply documenting the things that I truly love to wear, regardless of how often I've already shown them to you. I know I've spoken on this a lot lately, and I sound like a broken record but the fact that I featured this kimono just two weeks ago and am sharing it again had me thinking about all this. I know, deep thoughts.

Speaking of which, it's still incredibly hot and smokey here due to all the fires but we are fortunate to be safe in the area we live in. I've been keeping everyone in my prayers, all the families, animals, and firefighters battling the flames. I hope you will too.

Linking up with Rachelle today.

Continue the post

Back to Basics

It's usually around August where I start feeling a bit uninspired with my wardrobe. August and September are the hottest months of the year here, and while a lot of bloggers are previewing what's to come in Fall fashion, I'm over here reaching for anything that's loose, comfy, and breathable! I'll admit that even wearing jeans is a risky idea, but I live in denim so I do what I can to stay indoors in the air conditioning - such a fabulous invention!

But lately, it's back to basics with a pretty cold shoulder blouse and my most worn-in sandals. Both are older, but they are still on heavy rotation this Summer.

Wearing //  Rebecca Minkoff blouse, Old Navy jeans (love these too), Steve Madden sandals, Cult Gaia bag

Beauty // Charlotte Tilbury lip set

Building a wardrobe from a solid foundation of basics is a great way to make sure that your clothes work for you (although we do work for our clothes). I've really made an effort this year to pare down my buying, and before I do buy something new, I ask myself how many ways I can wear it?  Does it fill a void in my wardrobe? If the answer is yes, then I can be confident that I'll get my money's worth. As I've gotten older, I know that basics don't automatically equal boring. Play with color and print, and you'll have something that's practical, hopefully something that lasts a long time, and you can add your own touches to make it feel special.

 How do you guys feel about fashion in August? Every post I read yesterday dealt with this topic! Hey, just keep me submerged in water until mid-September thankyouverymuch.

Continue the post

Charlotte Tilbury Pretty Pink Lipstick Set

Aside from skincare products, nothing makes me giddier than a new lipstick. I've heard from countless beauty bloggers that Charlotte Tilbury is the Rolls of lipstick (For me, more like a Tesla).
They are quite expensive, so when the Nordstrom anniversary sale featured a lipstick and liner set, I purchased immediately. It includes the best-selling Pillow Talk lip cheat liner and two beautiful "your lips but better" lip shades that are exclusive to Nordstrom. 

Charlotte Tilbury Pretty Pink Lipstick Set

(Nordstrom Exclusive)

Honestly, both lipsticks look rather ordinary, nothing special aside from the gorgeous rose gold packaging. But let me tell you, they are anything but ordinary. 

First let's talk about the iconic Pillow Talk lip liner: It's a great rosey neutral that looks good with any lipstick. I find it to be ultra smooth, creamy, and long-wearing. I can see why it's become synonymous with the brand. If you try just one thing from Charlotte Tilbury, start here!

K.I.S.S.I.N.G. lipstick in Blushing Dream (cool-toned rosebud pink with a satin finish): Out of the two shades of lipstick, this one is my favorite. Soft, neutral, but still enough color that I can slap it on whenever I want. Perfect for everyday, it has a slight sheen and feels really moisturizing.

Matte Revolution Lipstick in Rose Kiss (warm-toned merlot with a soft matte finish): Although I love the idea behind matte lipsticks, I always find them to be somewhat drying and difficult to pull off on their own. This matte formula is comfortable and lasts through hours of talking, drinking, and eating. It will look beautiful in the Fall and Winter when I like to wear darker shades on my lips.

Have you tried Charlotte Tilbury yet? If not, I hope you treat yourself soon because these products are amazing!

Continue the post

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. 

Continue the post