Wednesday, June 3, 2015

poppy sandals

As a writer, I'm all about the words. But I can't deny the power of a picture. I've been writing about my style and the products I love for three years; I thought it was time to start showing you. I enjoy reading blogs so much more when I know the personality behind the "pen," so I hope that's what you gain from this, too—and that you feel like you know me a little bit better!

I'm definitely no natural in front of the camera (my license pictures prove it), but I had a ton of fun taking these in Linden Hills! It was a BEAUtiful night (though the humidity had some fun with my hair)—and a mandarin chocolate chip cone from Sebastian Joe's was just the thing to have on hand.

Pairing a powder blue halter with patent poppy sandals is my first attempt at inspiring you to use what's already in your closet in unique ways to maximize wearability (and save some moolah!). Even though some deals are tempting (hello $30 Old Navy overalls), I don't like to spend on stuff I really don't need. That might mean my closet is slightly slimmer than the next girl's, but with some creative styling, you can still slay it.

I think it's instinct to coordinate a loud color like red with a "quiet" white or black—which works!—but going the unexpected route with powder blue (or chartreuse or soft pink!) is so much more fun and original. These bold sandals see as much street time as my nude wedges—so practical—and give everyday basics like blue jeans an easy, sassy lift.







J.Crew silk cami (old—similar) | Madewell jeans | Boden sandals (old—similar here and here)
fingers: Essie Ballet Slippers | toes: Deborah Lippmann Blue Orchid | Shopbop ring (old—similar)

Monday, June 1, 2015

june edit.

Another new month! This is one of my most open summers in years. No weddings, no trips, no showers, no major events. While I like having "something to look forward to" as much as anyone, it's kind of nice to have the luxury of time—to fill it how I want and to have a minute to think about how I want to fill it, rather than just flying on autopilot from one obligation to the next.

My June Edit is really tight. I only included the REAL items on my real life wish list. My old pitcher started leaking months ago, and I need a new one for the strawberry watermelon Crystal Light I just bought (hello yum!). I was using a cheap-o acrylic one from Target, but want to class it up with version 2.0. Crate & Barrel's reef design comes in coordinating tumblers so you can eventually complete the set. I see this pitcher as an investment I'll have for years and be proud to serve guests from (more than just lemonade).

Round sunglasses are the it-style of the season, and I love the hippie, relaxed vibe for summer. Colored lenses make this pair a good alternative to my current black and tortoise frames. Sundresses are the unofficial uniform of June/July/August and I rarely wear them! If I had this effortless "drop-over-your-head" embroidered number, though, I think that record would turn right around (also love the Onyx!). Accessorize the pretty look with Dior Sunwashed nails (Byrdie declares it "the color everyone will be wearing this summer"—very reminiscent of this post from my archives!) and gold gladiators—I love how the lace-up detail and in-your-face metallic shade is balanced by a flat sole.

What's on your June agenda? Make it a good one!

SHOP MY JUNE FAVES

Saturday, May 30, 2015

nordstrom half-yearly sale

Happy SATURDAY! It's barely cracking 60º today, but the sun's out and it's my first chance since moving in to take advantage of the lounge chairs on my apartment's rooftop. The view is amazing—you almost feel on top of Lake Calhoun—and having to huddle under a hoodie is a small sacrifice.

If you're kicking back like me today, pull out your iPad and peruse my picks from the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale—it ends tomorrow! I rely on the sale to pick up pricier items that I just can't justify paying full retail for, like a leather jacket. This draped lapel style is effortless and only $178, while the notice-me two-tone one is unique, which appeals to me. And the Truth & Pride 'RPM' Moto is really classic and a good midpoint in price. Which would you get?

Because it's such a huge sale, it's hard not to treat myself to a few wear-now, seasonal pieces. A sporty one-piece swimsuit is super trendy this year and the Seafolly's front-zip is sexy! I've been drawn to hats lately, and this straw cowboy style would be great for long mornings in the sun like today! Finally, this cheerful tasseled clutch was made for casual nights at Salsa (or wherever you sprint to for summertime chips & margs!).

SHOP THE SALE PICKS 
—fun summer stuff—
—investments not to miss—

Friday, May 29, 2015

summer shorts edit

HELLOOOOO! I haven't posted in a while and it's killinggggg me (is it killing YOU?)! I'm totally using my April move/life transition as an excuse, which I think is valid. But I have been itching to get going on the blog again and am pretty settled into my new routine, so some fun new posts are coming! Hang in there with me!

We've had a good streak of gray days in Minneapolis, but Wednesday and Thursday of this week were beauts! HOT, sunny—and humid. The aggressive humidity reminded me that I need some new shorts to beat the heat (currently in my drawer: three measly pairs!). I freely admit I used to be a short-shorts kind of girl. Daisy Dukes were more comfortable to me than longer styles that bunched up—and in college you can get away with a "scandalous" inseam—but too-tiny, ragged cut-offs really aren't gonna fly anymore. With the right accessories and styling, shorts that hit at mid-thigh can be super street chic and playful at the same—and summer is all about fun, isn't it?

High-waisted styles with texture and pattern offer a polished spin on the more casual look of shorts, and good old-fashioned denim and J.Crew's cult classic Chinos are perennial favorites. Relaxed pull-on pairs are popular this year (elastic waist = more room for food truck tacos!), and I like the retro look of these (25% OFF!). I pulled together a few pairs I'm thinking about buying as alternatives to jeans for walks around the lake, movies in the park, and dinners on patios in the next few weeks. These especially would have been perfect for Hola Arepa last night (loved the yuca fries)!


SHOP THE SHORTS!
5 | White Denim Short 6 | 4" Chino Short (tons of colors)
9 | Origami Wrap Tie Skort (perfect for a night out) 10 | Pretty Embroidered Shorts





Thursday, May 7, 2015

mother's day gift guide

Mother's Day shopping has gotten easier as I've gotten older and my own tastes start to mirror Mom's—buying for her is almost the same as buying for myself. Luxe candles, workout wear and fragrances are foolproof. Where we differ is beauty (so personal) and decorating. I'm not at the point where I trade out topiaries each season, but my mom has certain centerpieces and décor she'll rotate as the months pass. She'll appreciate a new vase (filled with fresh buds!) to give the kitchen or foyer a fresh look for summer—I'm loving this sunny yellow. And my size-XS mom's not a big snacker, but Somersaults Sea Salt has the BEST nutty crunch and deliciously salty taste—and, as the bag boasts, all the protein of almonds but half the fat. I keep it stocked at all times (perfect for cubicle cravings) and it'd make a really cute addition to a gift basket filled with spreads, chocolate and cheese (picnic, anyone?!). My sister and I are road-tripping south to Rochester for the holiday with a few of these goodies in tow. Enjoy the weekend with your mama!


SHOP THE GIFT GUIDE


feature image via littlepinkmonster