Weekend in Paradise

I recently spent a long weekend in the Caribbean celebrating the end of summer before I dive back into the routine of daily life! It was such a wonderful and much-needed break, filled with lots of swimming, sunshine, island views, sailing, and crystal clear waters. We stayed at the Ritz Carlton St. Thomas, which I highly recommend, and enjoyed relaxing and taking in the views that overlook an expanse of turquoise waters, beautiful beaches, and rolling green hills of nearby islands. The resort is truly a gem on the island, and beautifully combines the cheerful, fun-loving spirit of the Caribbean with the serenity and relaxation of a tranquil oasis. We explored the cove on stand up paddleboards, kayaks, and sailboats, and soaked up some sunshine by the beach and pool. I always pack a few outfits for island exploring, but the weather was so fabulous that I stayed in my swimsuits and breezy tunics for most of the day until it was time to head to dinner! This weekend in paradise was the perfect way to celebrate a beautiful summer. Stay tuned for my favorite island look that's coming to the blog next!

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Summer Is Here!

Hooray! It's officially the start of summer! I absolutely love this time of year and look forward to sun-filled days spent at the beach or by the pool, watching sunsets and stars, sun-kissed skin and salty beach hair, and exploring new places with friends and family. To kick off my favorite season, I thought it would be fun to create a fun summer to-do list! Now before you write this off as another thing you have to check off your list (pun intented), I like to create this kind of list as an idea source for those days when you're looking for something fun or new to do! In between my summer travels, I'll be working on adding a few of these to my schedule! Here's my list; what's on yours? Happy First Day of Summer!

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Coiffure Class 101: French Side Braid

I've not done many hair tutorials on here, but after receiving some requests, especially over the past year or so, I thought it would be fun to show you (with a little help from my styling maven of a sister) how to create some of the styles I wear on a regular basis. First up, the French-style side braid. This is a simple twist on a classic summer look, and a favorite of many a camp counselor. Having invested many years in summer camps, this fun, oversized braid is a subtle, styling nod to those happy memories. It looks so pretty, and in the high temps, will also keep you feeling nice and cool! A few subtle tweaks take it from camp-style to chic in a matter of seconds. 

{Step 1}

Brush out your hair, and sweep all of it over to one side. For those of you with thin or extra silky hair, a spritz or two of texturizing or styling spray will help with a little extra grip. For added volume and fullness, I like to use Big Sexy Hair Powder Play, and for extra hold and to zap oil, Psssst Dry Shampoo is pretty fantastic. 

{Step 2}

Begin by french braiding*, starting a few inches back from the top, pulling hair across the back of your head to keep the braid on one side and not down the middle of your head. 

*If you need help french braiding, here's a good tutorial

{Step 3}

Finish braiding off the rest of your hair, making sure to keep the braid tight, and secure with a hair tie. 

{Step 4}

Here's where the magic happens! Start loosening up or pulling apart the braid to give a softer, fuller effect. Begin at the top of the braid and work your way down; this gives your braid the 'Disney Princess hair' effect. If you have super thick hair, this step will alleviate a lot of the pressure and weight that comes from braids pulled tight on your scalp. 

{Step 5}

Fluff up the end of the braid, as well as around the top and crown of your head. Tuck in any super loose ends, but remember, this looser-style braid will naturally have a few pieces that may stick out, that's part of the casual I always look this fabulous charm of the hairstyle. For those of us with lots of layers, myself included, you may need to employ the help of a few bobby pins to keep the larger, shorter pieces from falling out, but use your layers to your advantage to keep the style from looking too slicked back from your face. Your braid should look full and effortlessly glam, not sloppy. 

{Step 6}

I always pull out a few pieces around my face for a little extra softness, and because I think it makes the style look better and less 'done', if you know what I mean. After you've tweaked it to your liking, I always finish the look off with a spritz of natural hold hairspray and a bit of shine spray. I like to use Chi Enviro 54 Natural Hold and Mermaid Hair Shine Spray (It has the perfect hint of coconut, tames frizzies, and makes your hair super soft and shiny!). Voila! Enjoy your fabulous, french side braid!

Happy Styling!

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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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La Vie Boheme

Oh how I just adore summer! It’s full of easy days spent soaking up the sun, enjoying time with good friends, pool parties, vacation, and sun-kissed skin. One of my favorite things to do during this time of year is to grab some friends and host a dinner party al fresco. I think the best place for a beach bash is anywhere with a view of the water, or right on the beach if you can! While a pretty dinner party may sound complicated, this bohemian-inspired, summer soiree is very simple to put together, leaving you plenty of time to soak up the last rays of sun as you watch the sunset. Here’s your go-to handbook for hosting your own summer party!

Decorate: I love the idea of playing with color and infusing a little free-spirited, boho feel to the decor of a beach bash, so inspired by the two, I chose a color palate in shades of green, cobalt, and aqua. Instead of a traditional place setting, things got a beachy, island vibe with some woven place mats and dark wicker drink holders, and I swapped out a tablecloth for a beach blanket. When you’re going to the beach, it’s best to keep things simple and multi-purpose so you don’t have to lug a lot of things out there, so I used the fresh fruit as part of the “table decor” as well as for snacking, and interspersed a few small lanterns in soft creme to give a little light as the sun set. Individual bowls at each guest’s spot made for easy serving and guests could choose from a buffet of different finger foods, perfect for a lazy afternoon that turns into evening on the beach. Remember to bring along a small garbage bag for easy and fuss-free clean up afterwards!  

Dress: Beach parties are the perfect excuse to bring out the breezy, bohemian style, and it’s such fun for your guests to participate in dressing the part! Colorful bathing suits, maxi dresses, layered up jewels, long earrings, and flowing tops paired with shorts make for comfortable and free-spirited ensembles. Summer is also a great time to try out new braided hairstyles and to rock loose, mermaid waves. For a simple DIY beach-inspired ‘do, combine a bit of sea salt with some water and spritz on semi-damp hair. Let your hair dry naturally and then touch up any ends or pieces with a curling wand. Voila!, Mermaid hair achieved. 

Eat: When things heat up, the last thing you want is a heavy meal, or things that could melt in the sun. Choose your menu according to the time of day that you’re hosting your party, and always check with your guests to ensure that any special dietary needs are accounted for. Since this was an afternoon of fun by the sea, I decided that an array of different snack foods was best, accompanied by a flavorful quinoa salad. Check with your local grocery store and pick up some of the fresh fruits in season to ensure the best and sweetest taste! Strawberries, orange slices and large juicy wedges of watermelon all looked delicious and were perfect for the warm afternoon! In addition to the fruit, some delicate and crispy coconut cookies were a delightful, tropical compliment. Hydration is key in the soaring temperatures, and guests were greeted with a cold, sparkling water in flavors like Pink Grapefruit and Blueberry Lemon. I always enjoy serving fun, fizzy drinks like a sparkling flavored water or lemonade as a peppy addition to the menu! My local gourmet market had created this delicious and colorful quinoa salad, so for convenience sake, I chose to pick some up on the way to the beach, but if you’d like to create your own, it’s easy and fun to experiment with adding some freshly chopped veggies and dried fruits to your quinoa for added flavor. 

As the late afternoon light slowly fades to evening’s glow and sparkles upon the water, enjoy the laughter, mingling conversation, and don’t forget to play in the waves a little! Enjoy summer’s easy, peaceful days, the company of good friends, the sound of the sea, and celebrate this beautiful season! Cheers!

(Piece first published in Lydia Mag for Summer 2014: read full article here)

Event Styling: Candice 

Photography: Ashley Holstein Photography

Models: Lauren, Lawson, Olivia, Candice

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Easy Breezy

(Top: American Eagle, Shorts: Lilly Pulitzer, Scarf: Lilly Pulitzer, Shoes: Francisco Chellini, 

Bracelets: Marianna Mae, Nails: Muchi Muchi by Essie, Sunglasses: American Eagle)

It's Summertime and the living is easy...and your outfits should be too! This fun twist on a classic combo of chambray and navy lace feels playful when paired with a fringe-trimmed, printed scarf and bohemian, beaded bracelets. I'm loving the easy, breezy feel of tassels on both my scarves and jewelry this season! Strap on some basic leather sandals and grab your sunnies! This summer is all about adventure. 

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White Out

(Top: Lilly Pulitzer, Shorts: similar on sale!!, Sandals: similar, Clutch: Lilly Pulitzer, Bracelets: Natasha, 

Sunglasses: RayBan)

All white is a great summer combination for when temperatures soar. It not only keeps you cool, but also makes a chic statement. I enjoy the crisp feel of a monochromatic look, and the ease of putting it together. Jazz things up with a few flashes of sparkling metallics or even a pop of color. How will you wear white on white this summer? 

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Hello, Summer

Hooray! It's the first day of summer, and boy am I glad to see its arrival! It's finally official..break out those shorts, swimsuits and sandals and #getmetothebeach. Here's to many fun adventures, longer days, and a lot of sunshine! Happy Summer, friends!

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Lush

(Dress: Lilly Pulitzer, Sunglasses: Forever 21, Clutch: Lilly Pulitzer-- past season(similar here), Ring: BCBG)

Summer colors are just the best, aren't they? I love the way that blues and greens immediately evoke thoughts of wandering around a hidden paradise, overrun with tropical plants, blooming flora and swaying palms, as you listen to the waves crashing up against the shore. We took a mini trip down south to explore the more lush and tropical parts, and the views were simply breathtaking as sea kissed sand under the blue sky. It seemed appropriate to dress in colors that mirror nature during this time of year, and I have to admit that it just makes me happy to wear these pretty shades. A shift dress is always stylish and cool in the heat, and this one is the perfect blend of whimsy and functionality...now all I need is an iced tea and I'm set for summer!

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Beach Bash

Guess what?! The Summer issue of Lydia Magazine is now live! Catch all of the details that went into creating this colorful and simple Bohemian-inspired Summer Beach Bash, as well as more amazing content from the talented Lydia staff!

Read it online HERE or order a print copy of your own HERE. 

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Six Things To Do This Summer

Hooray it's Summer! (well not officially, but hey, close enough!) School is out, the sun is warm and days are getting longer. It's my favorite season, and I often enjoy having some extra time to do those things I "never have time for" during the year. It's easy to just lounge around, and while there's certainly something to be said about doing a little of that, it's also fun to do something different.
Each summer I like to make a list of fun things to do, so if I'm ever bored, there's a few ideas on hand to reference. Here's a few that made the list:

1. Take a day trip.
With some extra time on your hands, it's a good idea to get out and explore your hometown and surrounding area. Take a quick day trip to shop, eat, and explore some of the things that make your town or a nearby area unique..who knows, you might even find a few new favorite places! If you're visiting somewhere that's close to the water, don't forget to pack your swimsuit!

2. Try a new restaurant...or better yet, cook up something new in the kitchen.
What better time to whip up a new smoothie recipe, or to try out a new dinner idea than summer?! Take an afternoon and look up some ideas on Pinterest  in a cookbook to get inspired. Maybe even invite a few friends or family over to taste test and bring some of their own dishes to share.

3. Get outside!
Hello gorgeous weather! Let's stop spending so much time indoors, and take advantage of the beautiful sunshine. Get out and sit in the hammock, go on a bike ride, walk in the park, go for a run, walk the beach...you name it, there's tons of things to do instead of being inside. Enjoy the day and soak up the sun!

4. Attend an event
Look to see what's going on locally, and get tickets to a show, concert, festival, sporting event, gallery opening..etc. During the summer, most cities have a lot of different events planned, so take a look in the social column and pick a day to try something new! (This was the World Finals for the Modern Pentathlon, so cool!)

5. Have a party
No need for a specific reason, just have some friends over and enjoy the beauty of summer days. Invite everyone to bring a favorite dish to share, or have people over to enjoy a little summer grilling and time to catch up. When the sun sets, light a few lanterns or switch on the cafe lights for a little extra glow.

6. Go to the farmer's market.
One of my favorite things to do is to wander about the different streets, lined with vendors selling the freshest of fruits, vegetables, flowers and baked goods. The colors and smells are always so rich, and it's a great place to people watch and even get your dog out for a little walk! I like to make a stop to pick up a fresh coconut with a straw, so refreshing and delicious! Try a local market purchase in some of your recipes, and support the small businesses in your town. I think you'll be delightfully surprised!

Next time you're wondering what to do that day, take a look at this list or create one of your own!

Here's to a fantastic summer!

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