Style Postcards from Europe: Pink & White Stripes

| top | shorts | sunglasses | bag | shoes |

As we neared the end of our delightful European holiday, we decided to take a quick side trip into Germany. We happened to be there over the weekend, so some of the local boutiques were closed, but we wandered into beautifully ornate churches, explored winding cobblestone streets, and enjoyed a delightful ice cream sundae after lunch on the lake. Stripes are one of those prints that just goes anywhere, and this soft pink cotton version was perfect for the warm weather we had. Classic pieces and pastel color combinations are my favorite for summer; you can easily dress this top up with a linen blazer or tuck it into a navy or white pencil skirt. One of the things I couldn't have lived with out during this trip are these loafers. With all the walking we did, I was so glad that I had these along for the ride. Definitely choose comfort when it comes to travel (this pair gets bonus points for being both stylish and functional!).

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On Island Time

I got to spend a weekend with one of my longtime blogger (and real life) friends, Kerri, and we decided to get away and soak up a little sun on a nearby island. We wandered down sandy beach roads that gave way to crystal blue waters, meandered in and out of cute island boutiques, and explored the old lighthouses before heading dockside for lunch. Afterwards, we headed out for sunshine and sand, ice cream in hand, of course! Time with friends is simply the best. I always enjoy good conversation, lots of laughter, and the sweet memories shared together. Take a peek at her blog to see more from this fun weekend! Are you taking a trip with friends this summer?

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Style Postcards from Europe: Lemon Midi Dress

| dress | shoes | sunglasses | 

Oh, Como! What a beautiful part of Italy...I could have spent far more time here, and certainly look forward to returning to continue exploring. The charm of the Italian culture, beautiful architecture, breathtaking vistas, and divine food is enough to make anyone fall in love with the lake district. We enjoyed fresh pasta on a terrace by the lake and watched the streets bustling with both locals and tourists alike, excitedly hopping aboard the speedboats to cruise the waters. As soon as I saw this dress, I knew it would be perfect for exploring Italy. The lemon and floral print is so fun and the ruffled skirt adds a little bit of feminine flair. Usually I steer clear of midi dresses because the length is never quite right, but this one was too pretty to pass up! I look forward to wearing it throughout the summer with some espadrille wedges or lace up sandals.

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Style Postcards From Europe: Stripes & Florals

| top | similar shorts | shoes | sunglasses | bag |

A short drive from Switzerland brought us to France to explore the narrow streets, quaint canals and bustling city life. For a day of walking, shopping, and wandering, I decided to play with prints and mix stripes and florals. The trick to print mixing is to stay within a similar color family in order to avoid looking too mismatched. 

Pro tip: When traveling, avoid packing individual outfits, instead pack versatile pieces so you don't overpack. For this trip, I packed pieces that I could mix and match to create multiple looks (because who really wants to lug a bunch of stuff across the pond?). This top would be perfect with white pants, denim, or white shorts. I'd pair the shorts with any solid top in blue, pink, grey, black, or white. Don't be afraid of mixing a few prints along the way; sometimes the unexpected combinations are the best! 

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Style Postcards from Europe: Floral Maxi Dress

| dress | shoes | sunglasses |

I recently took a trip to Europe (see some snapshots via Instagram here), and upon arriving in Switzerland, we decided to have dinner on the riviera one evening. The view is absolutely spectacular with majestic mountains everywhere you look, an expansive and serene lake, and charming architecture, coupled with the twittering of the birds as the sun starts to fade into brilliant sunset hues. I had picked up this beautiful floral maxi dress a little while ago and knew that this trip would be the perfect place to wear it. The delicate ties on the shoulders, charming floral print, and full ballgown skirt makes it so feminine, pretty, and even a little princess-like! I couldn't help but twirl around once or twice on the lawn just to play with that gorgeous skirt. If you're headed to a special event this summer, this is the dress for you!

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