Island Livin'

There are so many things I love about Southern California and Orange County living, but sometimes the prospect of being relatively isolated on an island sounds pretty great. This Wildfox BBJ pretty much sums it up plus it's the epitome of comfort, landing this sweater at the top of my favorite pieces list. I love the effect of pairing white graphics with a bright white skinny jean, it helps everything pop! Keeping this layered look fresh and bold enough for Springtime dressing.

Urban Outfitters Top similar, Wildfox Baggy Beach Jumper here, Target Skinny Jean here, BedStu Sandal here, Alex and Ani Bracelets here and here

Lessons in Metallics.

This season brightly colored baubles and gemstone statement pieces have lost their sparkle making way for a heavy flow of mixed metals. Jewelry is all about silver and especially gold and you can't go wrong if you're mixing the two. Not only in accessorizing; metallics are becoming a staple to everyday dressing. If you're afraid of attracting attention from outerspace start out by trying something simple like a pair of silver stilettos.



Forever 21 Leather Jacket, Express Metallic Sweater, Cotton Grove SL Tank, Free People Cropped Skinny, Seychelles Duet Sandals, Old Navy Shark Tooth Pendant, Deena & Ozzy Embellished Crossbody, Forever 21 Rhinestone Bangle

 



Iron Gothic

If you haven't added any prints to your summer wardrobe, now is the time! All-over print denim, dresses and tops are the best way to freshen up your favorite looks. Whether they're on their own or mixed with other prints they'll keep your wardrobe on its' toes and give you lots of options to mix and match! This season you will not get bored.

 

 Cotton On East Meets West Shift, Express Denim Jacket, Steve Madden Embellished Sandals, Express Tassel Necklace, Aldo Studded Tote, Blu Bijoux Wrap Bracelet

Take Me Out to the Ball Game.

Last night my family and a couple of our close friends headed to the Anaheim Angels vs. Cleveland Indians baseball game. I can honestly say I'm not a huge baseball fan, I rooted for the Indians due to association, but attending a ball game is always an enjoyable summer tradition. Though I care more about eating all the grub and mingling with friends, it was pretty exciting when the guy sitting behind us caught a home run ball!!

I kept it stylish and simple, without having to dish out money for some MLB gear, in Tribe colors with a blue tank and red and blue blend fedora.

 Sister & I.

The Twins.
Tom Morris & Trent Ellis

 

 Brother Will, Jaz Kalkat & Me.

Cheesin.

 Weirdos.

Grub.

 Jaz only knows one funny face.

  Take Me Out to the Ball Game.

Free People New Romantics Tunic: here, Betsey Johnson Denim Shorts, Forever 21 Owl Pendant: similar, Emilie Crossbody: similar&cuter, RayBan Wayfarers, 1773 Red Fedora: similar, 

Sanuk Yoga Mat Sandals: here

Jar of Hearts.

Hope everyone had a fabulous weekend! On Friday I was feeling very youthful, and wanted to wear something summery and playful. I donned a Forever 21 mixed print look to execute my feelings. I like these two pieces together, because with the top tucked in, it gives off the illusion of a jumpsuit. And what is more playful than a playsuit? It was the perfect look to kick off my weekend of fun and relaxation!

Jar of Hearts.

Forever 21 Polka Dot Top, Forever 21 Heart Print Shorts: similar, Bauble Bar Saffron Bead Bib Necklace: here, Wanted Ankle Booties

Trying Tie-Dye.

Accompanying neon in this summer's trend list is tie-dye. Best worn when its falling into the neon category. Bringing back this retro trend adds fun and funkiness to any look. Try dying your own tee at home for some extra excitement.

Trying Tie-Dye.

StyleMint Tie-Dye Tee: similar, Lush Hi-Low Maxi Skirt, Betsey Johnson Belt: similar, Bamboo Gladiator Sandals: similar (on sale), Kelsi Dagger New York Tote: similar

Blues Baby.

Started off the week with some bright summer blues, which is a color I'm totally loving right now. Too keep the look from being too girly I made it more edgy with a utility anorak and a strong, oversized tote. The top alone is just too youthful, and ages me down about four years; the wedges definitely help mature the look!

Blues Baby.

American Eagle Flower Print Top, Black Poppy Military Jacket, Banana Republic Skinnies, Miss Me Wedges, Target Bead Necklace, Kelsi Dagger Embellished Tote: similar, American Eagle Sunnies

Grass is Always Greener.

I find a lot of joy in many simple things, but there aren't many things as relaxing as laying in the grass. I really wanted to make the colors in this dress pop so I paired it with neon accessories to brighten things up. Neon is a HUGE trend this summer, and I'm still navigating the waters. As someone who feels much more comfortable in darker palettes, accessories are a good place to start.

 

Grass is Always Greener.

Express Floral Dress: similar, Mango Bead Necklace: here (amazing price), American Eagle Sunnies, Rainbow Flip Flops: here, Bracelets: 31Bits, H&M, Express

Laguna Lunch.

Headed into Laguna today to enjoy some lunch and the sunshine. After eating at Sundried Tomato Cafe we got to enjoy the ICY chill of the ocean. What a perfect Sunday. For all you locals, Laguna has a free trolley running through the summer that you can take through town if you want to park on the outskirts free of charge. It was fun riding around feeling the cool breeze, makes sitting in traffic more enjoyable.

I perused my sister's closet for part of this look. It came to my attention that I don't have a lot of tank tops anymore. Hoping to catch some rays, I finally found this Forever 21 tank, that fit my style perfectly. It's funny for how much my sister and I are alike our wardrobes are totally different, especially our color palettes. After trying on about 6 tops I discovered this one is a perfect blend of both of us, florals & girly for me, summery & slightly neon for Elise. 

Laguna Lunch.

Forever 21 Hibiscus Tank: similar, Billabong Denim Button Front Skirt: similar, Ciao Bella Flats: similar, Deux Lux for American Eagle Handbag, RayBan Wayfarers: here & amazing price & affordable alternative

Garden Party.

I've been wanting to for a while, but yesterday afternoon I finally got around to starting a small 'garden.' Our landlord/previous tenant had five flower boxes outside on our 2nd balcony, filled with weeds and junk. I finally cleaned them out and added fresh soil. I also started some seedlings for forget-me-nots, sunflowers, pumpkins and basil. And, filled one box with seed bombs of wildflowers. It is still a work in progress, but the thought of growing beautiful things, inspired me to wear this beautiful, watercolor, floral skirt. Instead of aging myself 15 years I kept the look youthful by pairing it with a fun graphic tee, and cuffing my blazer sleeves. I'm excited about my new hobby, and can't wait til things begin to bloom!

Garden Party.

Express Knit Blazer: Similar, WWF Panda Tee: here, Loft Watercolor Skirt: similar, Calvin Klein Pumps, Loft Beaded Necklace: similar, Deux Lux for American Eagle Satchel: similar, American Eagle Shades: here 

I've decided for the time being it's not necessary for me to tell you the prices of everything; I don't intend on buying anything new for a while, and will continue to repeat things I've already worn. It should be known that I will continue to be budget friendly, but I think it's much more beneficial for me to help you find similar pieces to recreate looks, than for you to know where I found some bargain, that you'll never be able to track down. Let's be stylish together!