Summer Sweaters

(Sweater: Gap, Shorts: Lilly Pulitzer, Necklace: Target, Sandals (on major sale right now!): Lilly Pulitzer)

The thought of summer sweaters seems to be somewhat of an oxymoron, but I have to admit that there's actually something to them. Lately I'm all about a comfy, open-knit sweater. They're the perfect piece to transition from the super hot afternoons into the breezy evenings, and whether you pair them with sweet scalloped shorts or white denim, toss them over a swimsuit after a dip in the ocean, or even slip it over a solid color maxi dress, you'll always look perfectly chic. This one I found from Gap is on major sale right now, and I think you'll love the effortlessly cool look for those long summer days. Also, can we talk about how much I still love the lace-up sandal trend? Whether you're in shorts, a dress, or even cropped denim, there's something so stylish about these shoes that pulls together any look. I've worn my gold ones so much this summer, and am looking forward to the lace-up flats that seem to be the next big thing come this fall. On another note, did you make a summer reading list? I always enjoy catching up on a bunch of books I've been wanting to read. I spent the past weekend doing some reading, and am always looking for good book recommendations! There's nothing like finding a new favorite! Have any suggestions? 

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4 Summer Styling Tricks

Summer is my favorite. I love the warm breezes, beach days, necessity for sandals, and summer fashion. It can be challenging to dress for such high temperatures, but with a couple tips and tricks, you can stay cool and stylish, even in the summer heat.

1. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics. 

It's fun to wear a pretty dress in the summer, but make sure you choose fabrics such as cotton and linen to ensure that your skin can breathe. There's nothing more uncomfortable then being sweaty and hot in an outfit. I like to lean toward bohemian or brightly colored prints during the summer season! 

2. Pick a relaxed silhouette. 

Form-fitting dresses are great, but in the summer heat it can feel restrictive and sticky. Choose pieces that are a more relaxed or looser fit. This doesn't have to mean sloppy. Tailored detail tunics over white pants are a great combination to look put together without feeling so warm. 

3. Top it off. 

Throw on a straw hat, and a panama style is my favorite choice for summer! The loose weave allows the breeze to blow through, keeping your head cool, and also shades your eyes from the sun, whether you're on the beach or out for lunch. 

4. Dress up your basic pieces. 

It's easy to reach for the favorite shorts and t-shirt combo, out of habit and temperature factors, but mix things up, and pair your white shorts with a lightweight, silk sleeveless top, and some metallic accessories. Rather than the worn in flip flops, pair this look with strappy sandals with a low heel in a neutral to make your legs look miles long. Voila! Classic with a twist. 

Speaking of summer style, I don't know if you've heard of Eshakti.com, but they are a custom design retailer that allows you to design, style, and create your own pieces! I designed and ordered this flamingo printed piece from them last summer, and loved how it turned out! They've recently expanded their collection, and I'm already thinking of a few summer additions to my closet...whether it's a relaxed resort-style dress, tassel-trimmed tunic, chic chambray maxi, or custom linen pants, there's something for everyone! I love what they've come up with! Eshakti generously offered a $35 credit toward any purchase for anyone who reads my blog, so now's your time to pick out something pretty! Happy shopping! 

GC CODE: CANDYLANE35

Valid till 08/29/2015
Enter this code in the 'Gift Coupon / Referral Code' box at checkout
Only one gift coupon can be used in an order
Not valid on previous purchases / purchase of gift cards.
This gift coupon cannot be transferred, re-issued or exchanged for cash.
Minimum order value $30.

thanks to Eshakti for sponsoring this post

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Styled: Ankle Boots

(Top: LOFT (old), Shorts: H&M, Tights: TJMaxx, Boots: CottonOn, Necklace: Juicy Couture)

I love the look of a thick tweed short paired with tights, especially in such a fun plum color! To keep the look soft, I paired the shorts with a pale pink button blouse. Some simple accessories like a long gold necklace and pearl earrings look fresh and pretty but don't distract. --C

(Sweater: F21, Jeans: F21, Necklace: Juicy Couture, Earrings: Kate Spade, Clutch: Thrifted, Boots: CottonOn)

I wanted to work with the balance of volume for this look. A oversized comfy sweater in a chunky knit stripe looks great when paired with a dark wash skinny jean. Sparkling jewels and a gold clutch are the finishing touches that make this outfit perfect for coffee dates or an early dinner with friends. --L

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Thursday Giveaway!

Today's giveaway is brought to you by Aligna from the Jasmine and Violets shop!

She's giving one of you a fabulous piece from her store; her accessories are feminine, fun and perfect for springtime styling. Here's a few ideas of what you might want to choose when you win..

How to Enter:
(leave a comment for each)
Must follow Teatime Thoughts blog

Extra Entries: 
Visit Jasmine & Violets and tell me what you'd choose
Follow Aligna's blog
Follow Me on Twitter
Favorite Jasmine and Violets on Etsy
Tweet about the giveaway

Also, she's offering all Teatime Thoughts readers 25% off any item in her shop!

Just enter the code: bloom at checkout!

A winner will be chosen on Thursday, April 19th! Good luck!
GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED!
(thanks to all who entered!)

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