Gibsonlook x Hey Nasreen Blouson Floral Dress

I've shopped Gibsonlook at Nordstrom for a few years and have loved their soft, comfortable, elevated basics. When I found out that one of my favorite petite bloggers Nasreen was doing a collaboration with the brand, I knew I wanted to try one of their pieces. I was drawn to a few of the styles, but instantly fell in love with this beautiful blouson sleeve burgundy floral dress. It's perfect for Fall and the upcoming holidays. 

Wearing // Gibsonlook x Hey Nasreen dress, Sezane sandals, Similar Sezane bag, Gorjana necklace and ring set

I find that Gibsonlook runs large so I went down to a small in the dress and it fits just how I want it to.  It's a pull-on style with lining in the body and sheer billowy sleeves that cuff at the wrists. I absolutely love the print! You can't tell from these photos but there is a really pretty metallic gold threading throughout. Nate and I have only done family photos for the holidays once, but if we were to do them again I would definitely wear this! I highly recommend it for so many different types of occasions this Fall and Winter. 

I also wanted to briefly mention that Nasreen shared some heartbreaking news recently on her social media. She has breast cancer. Because October is national breast cancer awareness month and because Nasreen is making it her mission to help other women, I too would like to remind you ladies to please please make those annual appointments with your gynecologists. I actually had my first mammogram a few months ago when I found a rather large, incredibly painful lump. I first did the mammogram (which was definitely awkward but not painful) followed by an ultrasound. I had tears in my eyes while the nurse had me shift in various positions. I kept thinking of the ways in which my life would change if if she told me it was cancer. Thankfully, it wasn't cancer (just my hormones run amuck). There is no family history of breast cancer, but you still can't be complacent. That experience has shown me just how important self breast exams are, as well as making sure you see your doctor for those annual exams. I hope if you don't already follow Nasreen that you will do so now! Let's lift her and other women up in prayer and allow them to share their stories in hopes of preventing more people from going through the same thing. 

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Sezane Gloria Sandals

 These beautiful gold Sezane sandals have been on my wish list for years after seeing them on so many French bloggers I follow. Sezane has become my favorite brand for luxurious shoes and handbags. I went to their store in NYC the last time I was there and Nate had to peel me away from the gorgeous racks of clothes. While they are still a bit pricey, the level of detail and quality makes them totally worth it. If you've followed me for awhile, you've seen my black abelle bag that I carry every Fall and Winter. Now I can throw these Gloria sandals into the mix! I plan on wearing them with everything I possibly can. They fit true to size and are incredibly comfortable with soft, supple leather and a low heel. 

Gold sandals linked here

I treated myself to them for my birthday and can't wait to wear them out! I have a fun dinner to go to in a couple weeks and plan to wear them with a navy floral dress. I'll be sure to document for you!

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Thirty-Seven Birthday Dress

 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. 

Wearing // Abercrombie & Fitch dress and sandals

Every year I like to buy a new dress to celebrate. Since 2020 was such a mess, I really wanted this one to be different. I wanted to wear something fun, something typically out of my comfort zone.  I found this backless cut-out dress on sale and I knew instantly that I wanted to wear it on my birthday. It comes in petite, so I got my normal size and I love it! The back is quite dramatic but I still feel comfortable because the front of the dress is more modest. I like the balance of both! Simple nude accessories and delicate gold jewelry made it casual for walking around the beach. Nate and I spent the day driving down PCH. We stopped at South Coast Plaza but I wasn't in the mood for shopping. Malls in general just don't have the same appeal to me post pandemic. I really just wanted to eat, have some drinks, and head for the coast, so that's exactly what we did. We stopped in Laguna and enjoyed some cocktails overlooking the water. Laguna is one of my favorite areas in California so it was the perfect way to mark year 37. What a wild ride it's been...

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L*Space Anita Cover Up

 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. 

Wearing // L*Space Anita cover up dress, Sold out MinkPink dress but similar here, Vici bag, Gorjana necklace with Miranda Frye charm, Gorjana bracelet here & here

Now, my newest kimono is actually a cover up dress or tunic by the brand L*Space. They have a gorgeous selection of swimwear and accessories but everything is pretty pricey. This particular cover up is called the Anita, and it's just such a classic piece. It has a shirt collar, functional buttons, and can be worn multiple ways. I have worn it completely open over dresses, but I've also worn it tied at the waist with denim shorts and a bodysuit. The slits on either side allows you to do this and it looks so chic that way. So even though it's a pricier item, the versatility and quality makes it worth it. I wore this exact outfit in Vegas, and although it was well over 100 degrees (because you know, July in Vegas), I still felt cool and put together walking around some of the hotels. 

I have more ways to style a kimono coming up soon. Are you into them?

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Romantic Floral Maxi Dress

 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. 

Wearing // Forever 21 maxi dress (sold out), Miranda Frye pendant, Gorjana necklace, Target clutch, Similar shoes

I've always loved a good maxi dress, but because I'm only 5'2, they can be a bit tricky to pull off. Usually I end up tripping over myself! I saw this particular dress on a blogger I follow and decided to give it a try before it sold out. I love the delicate floral print, the straps that tie at the shoulders (or can even be tucked in and the dress can be worn strapless) and I really love anything smocked! It holds you in while still being incredibly comfortable. This is my first Forever 21 purchase in years. I think I stopped shopping there when I turned 30, but hey, you can still find some great items if you do a little digging. I currently can only wear this dress with heels, but I may eventually get it shortened. Don't be afraid of maxi dress or skirts if you're petite. I find they can be elongating, especially worn with a heel. You just have to find the right style, color, or print. Throw in some fun accessories and you're set for a breezy Summer day (or night). 

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Faux Silk Smocked Waist Mini Dress

 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. 

Wearing // Abercrombie dress (I got the M petite), Jeffrey Campbell sandals (sold out but love these), Gorjana bracelet

This dress is from a place I used to idolize in college, but couldn't really afford to shop in on my student budget. Abercrombie & Fitch has come a long way since then! They are much more size inclusive, and their website no longer makes me feel guilty for not being a size 00. My friend Gina told me to check it out a couple years ago when I think they were beginning to transition, but I still felt too sheepish to take a look. I ended up buying some of their active wear during the Fall, and now I check in (just to look) fairly regularly. 

When I saw this adorable smocked dress on their site, I knew it would be perfect for Spring and Summer. Smocked dresses are having a big moment right now and I'm so glad because it's such a flattering, comfortable trend. My mom used to wear smocked everything when she was in her 20's and 30's so the look is purely nostalgic for me. So is this pretty mint color! The dress slips on overhead and is fully lined. The silhouette is feminine and airy - exactly how I plan on feeling for the next few hot months. 

Are you buying any new dresses? You'll definitely see them a lot here! 

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