A Versatile Kimono-Style Dress For Spring

This outfit was photographed about two weeks ago, the last time I really put myself together and enjoyed a night out. I was so excited to show you one of my favorite Spring trends, a versatile take on a kimono-style dress that can also be worn open. I wear kimonos a lot in Summer with simple tanks and camisoles, so the option of wearing one as a dress is just perfect. In this way, it actually looks quite polished, sort of a fun take on a shirtdress. But it can also be dressed way down. Picture it over a bathing suit - I definitely plan on wearing it as a coverup over a black bikini.

Wearing // Vici kimono dress, Target sandals, Gorjana necklace and rings, Mejuri necklace, Similar Sezane bag

I love the neutral print, and the draped sleeves are really flattering. Now that I think of it, I'll wear it again this weekend over some black leggings since that seems to be my outfit of choice for the foreseeable future. Like all of you (I hope), I've been doing what I can to occupy myself at home:

1. Streaming podcasts, shows, movies, audiobooks and music. Music has been on practially 24/7 around here. Mostly alternative rock or classic rock.
2. Cooking and cleaning. I'm on phase one of getting the house scrubbed down but I really need to declutter next!
3. Facetiming with friends and family. I'm reaching out to people I haven't spoken to in months.
4. Reading and journaling. This moment is one for the history books, so making notes on what's going on may prove to be valuable one day.
5. Giving myself a much-needed manicure, face mask, and hair conditioning treatment. It's the little things that allow for some normalcy.
6. Still working at the shop and praying our small business can survive this.
7. We have a few house projects in mind, especially our backyard that is covered in weeds!
8. We plan on taking a long drive down the coast this weekend to get some fresh air, obviously being mindful of staying far away from others if we get out to stretch our legs. A walk along the shore sounds amazing but we'll see.

I was really hoping to hear from you earlier in the week after my last post, but it's been crickets. I totally understand though. Sometimes I feel like I'm writing for an audience of one, but I'm okay with that. I have to be. This blog was born out of a need for sanity, and it will continue to serve that purpose regardless of who stops by or not...although I really would love to hear from you! This would be a great time to build up our little online blogging community again. That's my vision anyway.

I hope you're all taking care.

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Uncertain Times

There have been many times in my blogging journey where I have felt foolish for posting about frivilous things, but nothing compares to what it feels like now. Affiliate links, photos of myself against the backdrop of my town's wineries, reviewing expensive beauty products...it all just seems completely ridiculous at a time when entire countries are on lockdown and here in the U.S. we are being encouraged to stay home and distance ourselves from one another. Covid-19 has its firm grasp on the world.

It's a pretty scary time, isn't it? I'm not in panic mode, but I've always been afraid of this exact scenario and now that it's a reality, I want to do everything I can to stay healthy, positive, and help flatten the curve. Schools are closed in my area, events have been canceled/postponed indefinitely, and this really isn't something we've experienced in our lifetimes.

Photo taken in 2018

I posted this on Instagram:
"We are heeding expert advice and staying home for the foreseeable future. We still have to go to the shop to work, but luckily it's very close to home and we don't currently employ others. I know some people think I'm overreacting, but I'd rather overreact than not. It's just my nature. Sending love to you all and praying for this to pass as quickly as possible."

I do hope people listen to the health experts and are taking every precaution necessary, if not for their own sake then especially for their loved ones. There are so many unknowns in regards to this virus, so why risk it? Parts of the world, Italy in particular, are in the thick of devastating and unspeakable heartbreak, and it's almost impossible for me to wrap my head around it. A virus isn't war, but it sure feels like it.

I'll still continue to blog, although I'll be honest and admit that the words and ideas are not coming easily. I just hope this space provides some levity and distraction from all that is happening. Please feel free to comment on my posts or email me if you'd like to talk about anything and everything! I'm here. We will overcome.

I'll leave you with this today. I read it on social media and felt compelled to pass it along to put things into perspective:
"May we who are merely inconvenienced remember those whose lives are at stake.
 May we who have no risk factors remember those most vulnerable.
 May we who have the luxury of working from home remember those who must choose between preserving their health or making their rent.
May we who have the flexibility to care for our children when their schools close remember those who have no options.
May we who have to cancel our trips remember those that have no place to go.
May we who are losing our margin money in the tumult of the economic market remember those who have no margin at all.
May we who settle in for a quarantine at home remember those who have no home."

 Sending all of my love to each and every one of you.

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All Dressed Up

My favorite time to shop is in the early stages of Spring. I love the feminine silhouettes and prints, especially floral. There's just something so fun about putting on a flirty little dress and a great pair of heels. It's been awhile since I got all dressed up (with seemingly nowhere to go), but Nate's been working at the shop non-stop and when he wanted to take me out, I happily obliged! There's no time like the present.

Wearing // Red Dress Boutique floral dress, Similar nude clutch, Sam Edelman pumps in similar color, Gorjana rings & necklace

 I hesitated showing it to you guys again, but this dress is still available in case any of you are looking for a pretty Spring outfit. I later put a denim jacket over it and I'm sorry I didn't take more photos. Layering is just another way to show how versatile dresses can be when transitioning to a new warmer season. 

For what it's worth, I first heard of Red Dress on Instagram, as they seem to collaborate with a lot of popular bloggers. I'm usually leery of trying clothes from smaller online boutiques because fit is often hit or miss. But their selection of dresses is amazing, so I went ahead and got my usual size and thankfully it worked out! I wouldn't hesitate to buy something else. As for the heels, these are still my favorite! I don't wear heels nearly as often as I used to, but I still think a classic pair of suede pumps is a wardrobe staple. You never know when an occasion might call for them. 

How are you all doing? I've been managing a crazy migraine off and on for the better part of a week, thus my lack of posting. I hope you're all staying healthy 💋

Linking up with Laura from I Do deClaire

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The Monthly Edit // Feb. 2020

"Wherever life plants you, bloom with grace."

First and foremost, happy March! Spring is right around the corner and I know everyone is looking forward to the change. It's been a pretty cold and gloomy day here so while I'm currently covered up in a blanket, you can expect upcoming posts to feature fresh flowers and airy dresses. 

February passed quickly, as it usually does. I still couldn't completely shake the blues, but I tried my best to channel all that negative energy into gratitude and by the end of the month, I was feeling much better. Thank you guys for your support and feedback on my Valentine's Day post. Being honest about my struggles is so cathartic, and it seems like it has helped some of you as well. At least, that's my hope. 

Not everything in February was good, but it was the little things that made me happy...

I treated myself to some gorgeous fresh flowers, courtesy of Trader Joe's. Tip: Buy yourself some flowers during a bad day or week. It will instantly lift your mood.

Agate coaster

Decorated my home office. Most of our house has a relaxed coastal/beach vibe, but I wanted my little office space to reflect my love for Palm Springs and the desert. I purchased the items below, and have a large leaning floor mirror being delivered shortly. I'm adding little touches slowly, but I can't wait until it's all completed.

Cactus Print

Candle holder

I'm beginning to transition my (California) Winter wardrobe into Spring. I'll talk more about how in the coming weeks, but really it's all about making small changes that include shoes, bags, and accessories. Details make the difference!

Drank nitro cold brew from Starbucks on repeat. Have you tried it? I just get the regular nitro cold brew with sweet cream and it's the perfect flavor!


Contemplating watching the Netflix series Love is Blind. My sister-in-law told me about it a couple weeks ago and now I'm seeing it mentioned everywhere. I think I'll try an episode this week.


How was your February? Do you have any trips or big plans for Spring?

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What I'm Using on my Dry Winter Skin + Eczema

After a fairly rainy 2019, I had high hopes that this Winter would be similar. Unfortunately, much of the season has been extremely windy and dry. Most people dread humidity, but I'm the opposite and dread the desert-like climate of my area. I also have mild eczema that flares up in Winter, so I make it my mission every year to try and avoid the symptoms of dry, red, itchy skin. Thankfully, relief can be found in the skin care aisle. There are so many more options these days than there used to be!

Here are my current favorites.

Raw Sugar Pure Scalp Therapy 

People with dry skin usually have a dry scalp, and there's nothing more irritating than that! I've heard a lot about scalp treatments and exfoliators, so when I saw this product at Target I decided to give it a shot. My scalp has been in pretty good shape over the lasy year, but I do get occasional boughts of itching and flakiness. I've used this treatment a handful of times and it's worked well at soothing my scalp. The treatment has a nice cooling, tingling sensation that rinses squeaky clean. I think because so many of us go that extra day now without washing our hair, our scalps need more attention and extra nourishment. Dry shampoos can also cause buildup and congested pores, which definitely affect the health of both the scalp and hair. If you have any sort of dryness, definitely try this treatment! If you don't, try it anyway! Trust me, you'll love it.

Aveeno Eczema Therapy Itch-Relief Balm

The rough, dry patches and bumps on my lower legs have been intense this Winter. I'm talking itching that feels more like burning. Just super uncomfortable, even unbearable at times like I want to crawl out of my skin. At the beginning of the month, I'd had enough and stalked the internet for help. So many reviews gave this balm by Aveeno an A+ rating, so I quickly purchased a jar. This treatment is super thick, almost sticky. It kind of reminds me of vaseline, only richer. Containing colloidal oatmeal, it soothes on contact but really takes effect after a few minutes on my skin. I really don't know what I'd do without it now! I use it mostly in the evenings as part of my nightly routine. In the mornings, I use a regular body cream and then lightly put this on any obvious dry patches. This also comes in a version for children, as I know eczema is common in kids. Go figure I just never grew out of mine. 

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads

Hydration is key to any Winter skin regimen, but so is exfoliation. In order to get rid of dry, dull skin, you really need to exfoliate. Some people do it daily, but I do it two or three times per week. These facial radiance pads from First Aid Beauty make it so easy and convenient. After cleansing, I sweep a pad across my entire face (especially around my nose and chin) and it instantly reveals brighter skin. It also helps to improve the texture, so my foundation applies more evenly and my overall complexion just looks healthier and more glowy. 

Let me know if any of you struggle with eczema or dry skin in general. I would be happy to do more posts on this if you're interested!

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Bohemian Mood

Casual bohemian style is a huge part of California's look and culture. It's a natural fit, though I'll admit that an unclear definition required me to do a quick Google search. Just what really is "boho style" anyway? According to wikipedia, "Bohemian style, often called boho or boho chic focuses on free and flowy fashions, natural fabrics, and earthy colors and patterns." It also refers to people "who live unconventional, usually artistic, lives."

Hmmmm, I think I'm fairly conventional, but I do love flowy fabrics and earth tones. I guess there's a reason why I've become so drawn to it over the last few years, especially when I tire of structured, more classic pieces. My search led me to explore why this style was popularized by women in the 1960's and 70's as a sort of backlash against more restrictive dress codes. I'm all about comfort, so I imagine I would have been one of those women! I'm kind of a hippie at heart.

Wearing // Leith bodycon dress on sale, Similar long cardigan, Similar booties, Gorjana necklace, Similar Sezane bag

This long duster cardigan has been a great way for me to bring a little boho chic to an otherwise simple black dress. The ankle boots tie it all together, and I love the contrast of earthy tones with black, and with a bodycon dress paired with a flowing cardigan. The duster creates a lot of movement, and it lends to the carefree vibe of the outfit. We've had some beautiful sunny days and the promise of Spring is getting near. That alone puts me in a happier state of mind. I know so many of you are sick of Winter by this point and I don't blame you. We're almost in March! Patio season is getting closer and closer...

I also styled this long duster cardigan here & here in case you need more ideas. What do you think of boho style? 

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