Floral & Gingham

I love mixing prints and textures in outfits! It's so much fun to see what combinations will mesh together in a way that is playful and pretty. Florals and gingham are two style elements that are still on trend as we waltz into summer, so I thought it would be a perfect pairing. It's been so hot here already, so I have been living in lightweight shorts (like these adorable high-waist gingham ones) and sleeveless tops styled with whimsical accessories. Statement earrings are the perfect way to really make an outfit pop; these floral beauties are one of my favorite pairs this season. I'm amazed with how many things I've been able to wear them with and they'll definitely be packed in my bag for some upcoming travels!

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Stripes & Streamers

 

Happy Memorial Day! I love being able to bring out all the patriotic and red, white, and blue pieces (like this cute dress!) this time of year. Today is a wonderful time to celebrate our freedom and the brave souls who have freely given to ensure our lives would be better. I am incredibly grateful to those who have served or are currently serving our country. Your sacrifice is remembered and respected.

Also, Memorial Day is the unofficial start to summer. Can you believe it?! Summer is one of my favorite seasons. I love the long days, outdoor entertaining, fresh fruits and vegetables, warm nights, traveling, days at the beach, and time with family and friends. It's always fun to put together a seasonal-inspired 'goal list' of things I'd like to do and accomplish at the beginning of each season. I'm looking forward to checking off some fun adventures this summer! What's on your list this season?

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Palm Print

| top | skort | shoes | bag | sunglasses | earrings |

I love all things tropical, especially during summer months, and this playful palm leaf print is perfect for a hot day. The weekend was filled with lots of time outside, and when the temperature heats up, I reach for lightweight, breathable pieces. Print and texture are a fun combination, and I loved how the eyelet skort paired with the breezy tank added interest to an otherwise simple look. Lace up sandals have been a popular trend for both spring and summer. I've enjoyed wearing these gold ones that work as a sophisticated neutral to pair with just about everything in my closet! ;) 

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Style Postcards from Europe: Gingham One Shoulder Dress

| dress | shoes |

For the last evening of the trip, we returned to the Swiss riviera, and enjoyed a sunset dinner on the lake. It was rather warm, so a one-shouldered gingham mini was the perfect piece. The golden glow of the sun's last rays illuminated both the mountains and buildings alike, and the faint twittering of birds made the scene completely idyllic. Gingham is certainly having a moment this year, beginning back in spring and carrying over into to summer styles. I've got a few pieces in this print that I'll be looking forward to wearing for late afternoon picnics, beach parties, and a stroll about the farmer's market.

p.s. Celebrating the Fourth of July tomorrow? This cute dress would be perfect for a patriotic party! Also, here's a few ideas for hosting a fabulous and fun-filled get-together!

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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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Beach Essentials

| coverup | similar beach tote | also love this version

It's time for sunshine, sea breezes and swimsuits once again! (Wait, did it ever end?!) Spring weather creates the ideal beach day; it's sunny and warm with a bit of cool breeze, yes please! Lately, I've been finding any excuse to get out and enjoy the beach, even if it's just a quick dash to catch the brilliant display of colors at sunset. One of the best things about being so close to the ocean is that you can totally check in to vacation mode whenever the mood strikes! I've learned to keep a beach bag in my car with some of my essentials so I'm always ready for an impromptu beach escape. I always like to pick up a new swimsuit or two around this time to refresh the wardrobe for another sunshine-filled spring and summer season. Adore Me has some really cute styles as well as a wide range of prints and sizes to fit and flatter every body type. (Score an extra $10 off your new suit with code SWIMSET10)

Over the years, I've discovered what sun care products really work (especially when it comes to protecting that great tan...oh yeah, and your skin!). I've linked some of my tried and true favorites for you below. Sun Bum products have quickly become my favorite after discovering them on a vacation, and I'm also loving this Coola setting spray that adds a light layer of protection while locking in any tinted moisturizer or CC cream you may apply. Both of those lines are organic and provide excellent protection (Read: great tan without burning, score!!) for a day at the beach. If you're not a fan of laying out, this is the best self-tanner that will give you that gorgeous sunkissed glow in a flash.

Here's to many sunshine-filled days and ocean breezes in your future!

Thanks to AdoreMe for partnering on this post

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Pretty In Pink

(Dress // Bag // Shoes)

For my birthday we took a trip to the beautiful Biltmore Hotel in Miami. The historical beauty sits among sprawling golf courses, streets lined with banyan trees, and lovely private estates in Coral Gables. A walk around the property is perfect for discovering charming staircases, hand-painted frescos on the ceilings, marble columns, intricate tile mosaics, and beauty around every corner. Our suite was so spectacular that we decided to have a private dinner brought in, and then went for an evening stroll afterwards. I wanted a fabulous dress to celebrate in, and this gorgeous shift was perfect for ringing in another fantastic year! I was drawn to the pretty color, gold detail, and simple elegance which makes this the perfect summer look. Also, this clutch is my new go-to; the gold accents and printed inner lining make it the finishing touch and beautiful accessory for just about every summer dress I own. 

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