Wanderlust Wednesday // Summer Staycation

panama hat / t-shirt dress / neon necklace / sunglasses / beach tote / sandals / water bottle / bikini embroidered cover-up

On Memorial day, the husband and I walked to the pool by our apartment and enjoyed a few hours in the sun. I was basically like a kid on Christmas morning. Since it had been a good 9 months since my last poolside afternoon, I had forgotten just how relaxing and rejuvenating time in the warm sun could be. In between our weekends filled with weddings and quick getaways, I plan to squeeze in as much time lounging by the pool as humanly possible. 

Above are a few of my essentials for a staycation weekend at home, including an easy t-shirt dress, a fun bikini (that I just recently picked up!), and bright accessories.

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Mix It Up

Happy Tuesday Friends! Will anyone else live in a state of confusion this week thinking it's the wrong day? No, just me? 3 day weekends always mess with my internal calendar.

I picked up this floral number from j.crew factory during the winter in the hopes that the weather would one day warm up enough to wear it and lucky for me, in recent weeks my wish has been granted! The great thing about florals is that many times they have just as much versatility as a basic color. I originally wore this dress to a wedding a few weeks back and decided to throw on my favorite vest (last seen here) to mix it up a bit last week for work. Next on the agenda - a chambray shirt tied on top making the dress into a skirt for chiller months. How do you mix up your favorite pieces?

 ray-ban aviators / j.crew factory dress (love this option) / bar III vest (similar) / j.crew factory necklace (similar) / steve madden heel (still love target's version) 

Sunday Browsing vol.11 & Memorial Weekend Sales

Happy Memorial Day weekend friends! How is everyone celebrating this precious 3-day weekend? It's going to be 80 here today & I can't even contain my excitement! I plan to be poolside for the remainder of the weekend, but first, here are a few links to enjoy -

• to drool: a very talented friend of a friend recently launched a new website (blush arrow cakes!) to accompany her amazing cakes, cookie, and cupcake business. They can be ordered and shipped to anywhere and are nothing short of amazing.

• to blog: I stumbled across Ashley's blog, Sugar & Cloth after stalking her home tour on The Everygirl. Swing by her blog and you'll be bombarded with inspiration for days and amazing DIYs.

• to listen: do yourself a favor and listen to Sam Smith's stay with me, it's oh so good.

• to eat: I tried this recipe earlier this week, highly recommend!

• to shop: it's memorial day weekend so the only natural thing to accompany the sunshine, barbecue & warm weather is shopping - here are a few sales!
• Nordstrom started their women's half yearly sale earlier this week (rejoice!) - I picked up these bad boys  on day one and am eyeing this blush dress and this floral top.

• Gap is offering 40% off full priced items. This dress would be perfect with pink accents for an afternoon wedding, and I'm really loving this effortless romper.

• Nasty Gal is kicking off summer with an extra 50% off markdowns. How cute is this lilac skirt?

• Swing by J.Crew and enjoy an additional 30% off already reduced items & 30% off select full-priced items. J.Crew is my favorite for classic items (like this tee seen here) and bright pieces (highly recommend their fluted crepe skirt, worn here)

• Need Supply Co. is offering an additional 20% off already reduced items -  these lace trimmed shorts are prefect for an easy summer look.

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Wanderlust Wednesday // Weekend at the Lake

With Memorial Day marking the official start to summer this weekend, I can't help but get overly excited for the long, warm days filled with bathing suits and a carefree attitude that lay ahead. In my mind, nothing embodies a true summer weekend more then one spent lakeside. After a winter that overstayed it's welcome, the idea of shedding the layers and packing simple pieces that don't require much thought is refreshing.

j.crew factory shorts / converse sneaks / zara sweater / baggu weekender / zara headband / asos sunglasses / topshop bikini / timex watch / j.crew tunic (on sale!)

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Loving Lately // Lavender Locks

Historically I have never been a fan of un-natural hair colors and am pretty apprehensive when it comes to dying my own hair. However, I remember surprising myself when I loved Kelly Osbourne's new purple tresses when they first debuted a year or so ago. 

I hadn't thought much of it until a few weeks ago when I started seeing more and more photos of women rocking lavender locks appear. After clicking through a few pictures, I realized what I love about this look is that the color doesn't define the women, but instead compliments and accentuates their features and style. I can't say I'd go as far as making the switch myself, but I can promise to continue to enjoy those that do. 

What's your thought on the purple hair trend?

images: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Fresh Perspective

Happy Monday Friends! How were everyone's weekends? Mine was spent in Augusta celebrating my sister-in-law's wedding which was nothing short of amazing. But I must admit that if you would have asked me in the middle of last week about the long weekend away ahead, I was feeling overwhelmed. With an unexpected crazy week at work that resulted in late nights and early mornings, the idea of being gone for a few days felt daunting. 

However, after arriving to Augusta, meeting up with family and diving face-force into all the weekend's activities (I wore this outfit to the rehearsal dinner - more wedding attire advice here), the thoughts that consumed the beginning of my week immediately melted away. I was reminded of an important lesson - how important family is, and how there really is nothing to cherish more then watching a loved one walk down the aisle alongside of those you care for most. I might be starting Monday morning with sleepy eyes, but feel rejuvenated and focused on what really matters. 

old H&M dress, similar here (cute bow detail!) and here / old BCBG leopard heels, love these / old clutch / revlon lipstick in wild orchid

Wanderlust Wednesday // 3 Fluid Oz. Essentials

Every time I'm in the airport security line, otherwise known as "degradation station", I think to myself how the 3-oz.-one-bag carry-on rule is pretty much the worst thing ever. Sure, I'm an advocate for safety, but I'm also an advocate for non-frizzy hair, moisturized skin, and a face that doesn't resemble godzilla. #firstworldproblems.

We're leaving tomorrow afternoon for a wedding in Georgia and since I refuse to check a bag (take that, airline fees!) I will inevitability be making some tough decisions when it comes to the beauty products that will accompany my travel. Outside of the classic toothbrush & toothpaste, I've complied  what I consider to be essentials when traveling.

• oscar bland dry shampoo - for an early flight that doesn't allow time for a full get-ready routine, dry shampoo is a must. This brand is one of my favorites (introduced to me by my momma) & doesn't have that terrible "dry shampoo smell".
• clinque face lotion - when I'm home, I typically use a different face lotion for during the day & at night, but when traveling, I consolidate. Clinque's lotion is my go to - perfect amount of moisture to combat the dry airplane air.
• neutrogena face wipes - in lieu of face wash, I opt for wipes when traveling. They are much more convenient for long travel when a "face re-do" is necessary mid-trip, can double as hand wipes, and easily remove all eye make-up.
• big sexy hair root pump - for all the girls out there like me who are in a constant battle against flat, limp hair this is the best solution I've found to boost those roots while traveling.
• vaseline - my own little miracle worker. Not only does vaseline keep lips from looking rough but also works magic on any blemish that might need attention (read: if you pop a pimple) - I've found that dabbing some vaseline helps prevent scaring and expedites the healing process. Overshare, I know. 
• l'oreal hairspray - this is my day in and day out hairspray, and I can't recommend it enough. It's not sticky or heavy and goes on in a light mist that holds well. 
• colgate wisps - nothing makes me feel more put-together then freshly brushed teeth. These are great for those in-between moments when you need to feel refreshed.
• truffle pouch - let's not forget a cute accessory! Thanks to TSA standards, liquids need to be in a clear bag, so why not take the opportunity to find a cute solution? You can always use a ziploc, but I've found a plastic pouch with a zipper is sturdier, won't puncture and is easier to maneuver in a packed carry-on. 

What are your traveling essentials? I'd love to hear your tips & tricks!

Pattern Play // Palm Leaf

1. zara  top / 2. zara shorts / 3. target bikini / 4. bucketfett x c.wonder shoes / 5. gap top (on sale!) 6. topshop top / 7. anthropologie scarf / 8. dolce vita sandals / 9. topshop crop top / 10. pixie market dress

Ever since purchasing these shorts last week (they're under $20!), my I can get enough palm leaf pattern in my life. I mean honestly, what screams summer more then a piece of clothing that resembles a tree only found in warm climates? Now I just need to coordinate my surroundings to my outfit - only makes sense, right? 

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Wanderlust Wednesday // Wedding Weekend Away

rehearsal dinner: clutch / heels / necklace / dress

wedding: earrings / clutch / heels / dress

morning after brunch: top / sneakers / sunglasses / bag / jeans

While it's questionable if May actually brings flowers (hello continuous rain!) there is no doubt that May brings weddings, and lots of 'em. Of course, a summer filled with plans to watch others wed may get expensive, but it also has the potential for a lot of fun - think dancing, drinks, and catching up with old friends. 

Most of the weddings I will attend this summer are in town, but I do have a few that will require some travel, which of course requires a bit of advance planning. When packing for a weekend wedding away, there are a few guidelines that I've set for myself to make the process a little less stressful. 

If you're in the wedding you can bet on being invited to a rehearsal dinner, usually held the night before the big day. However, many will also invite any out of town guests to the dinner or out for drinks after. For a rehearsal dinner, I generally reach for a dress with a classic silhouette in a strong color, that is easily accessorized with a fun, eye catching pair of heels. 

For the wedding itself, my favorite dresses are those with a fun, bold print where a clutch or shoes in a punchy color easily ties the whole look together. And of course, after two straight days of heel-wearing activities (read: a ton of dancing!) the morning after requires a serious pair of comfortable shoes. Don't forget a big pair of sunglasses to hide those under-eye circles!

What are some of your go-to's for a wedding weekend away?

Watch Yourself

classic gold: 1, 2, 3

just for fun: 1, 2, 3

everyday casual: 1, 2, 3

athletic: 1, 2, 3

black out: 1, 2, 3

Growing up, I had always considered watches as an accessory that was reserved for "adults" - they seemed boring, unattractive and cumbersome. However a few years ago I received a white watch for Christmas and my perspective immediately changed. Ever since, watches have become a staple in my wardrobe, whether I am running errands, at work, or enjoying a night out with girlfriends. 

I was reminded of my love for watches when I happened to catch my husband browsing through a few online a couple of weeks back (we share a passion for the wrist accessory) and thought it would be fun to round up a few of my favorites. I'm a huge fan of a classic gold and black out watches (this is my favorite) but after doing this post am feeling the need to invest in a "just for fun" watch too! 

All watches are shown from price low to high from left to right. Which look is your favorite?

No Brainer

With the next three weekends dedicated to weddings, concerts, travel and visiting with friends, it meant this past Saturday & Sunday was a nose-to-the-grindstone kind of weekend filled with running errands and spring cleaning. It may not have been the most fun weekend, but was absolutely necessary to ensure my sanity stays intact for the remainder of the month. 

When my days are filled with too many adult tasks (when exactly did I "grow up"?!), I like to reach for an outfit that doesn't require much thought. A few of my staples: prints that play well together, a red lip & a fun shoe. What are your "no brainer" outfits?

ps - happy cinco de mayo!

j.crew shirt (last seen here) / j.crew tee (last worn here) / j.crew factory shorts / old clutch (similar) / guess booties / ray-ban aviators

Sunday Browsing vol. 10

Happy Cinco de Mayo Eve Friends! Did anyone celebrate this weekend or have plans to do so tomorrow? The husband & I decided to partake in a low-key celebration - aka margaritas will accompany our dinner tonight. Call me boring if you'd like.  I hope you're getting to spend some quality time relaxing today before the rat race returns tomorrow! Here's a few links to send you even further down the internet rabbit-hole - 

• to shop: how fun is this metallic pleated skirt from pixie market? 

• to enjoy: being a unashamed fan of Kanye, I throughly enjoyed this version of his workout plan. The man has a few points.

• to travel: hopping on a plane soon? Loved every genius idea of Sarah's for how to eat healthy while flying.

• to celebrate: indulging in a little Cinco de Mayo fun this weekend or tomorrow? A few holiday appropriate cocktails I've been dying to try here, here, and here. 

• to eat: this new-to-me recipe made the dinner list this week! I'm pretty thankful for a burger recipe that doesn't require a grill since there is no such thing at our apartment (bi-product of no outdoor space!)

• to inspire: how gorgeous is this picture? I want to go where they are going. 

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