Monday, June 30, 2014

Loving Lately- Fourth Of July Outfits Edition


I cannot believe that the Fourth of July is this week.  Where has the Summer gone?  At this rate, it will be time for my girls to be back at school in no time!  Sometimes the routine of daily life can make it seem like the days drag on, but then a certain event or milestone will pass, like a holiday or birthday, and I suddenly will realize just how quickly time is passing.  It is a good reminder for me to not get so caught up in the tedium of projects and errands, and instead focus on spending fun Summer days with my girls while they are still young enough to want to spend time with me!

So, with Summer fun in mind, here are two outfits perfect for the 4th, one a more casual option, and the other just a bit more dressy.  I love dressing in patriotic colors for the holiday, but I tend to avoid going too literal with it.  Let's face it, a flag print t-shirt is really only going to get worn once a year, right?  So I would rather choose some pieces that I can get a lot more wear from.  Which is your favorite?


Red and White Print Tank  //  White Linen Pants  //  Navy Blue Crossbody Bag  //  Navy Grosgrain Bracelet  //  Bangle With Blue Enamel Charm  //  Flat Sandal  //   Goodnight Macaroon Navy Romper  //  Red Foldover Clutch  //  Gold Pendant Necklace //  Red Beaded Bracelet  //   Wedge Sandals  //

Today I am linking up with Mix Match Fashion.
Follow the link button below:

Mix & Match Fashion

Friday, June 27, 2014

Summer Trends: Bohemian

This is definitely a Bohemian Summer.  Everywhere I look there is gauzy fabric, embroidery and colorful beading.  The fun thing about fashion is being able to explore areas out of your comfort zone.  I would not classify myself as a bohemian kinda girl, but I am really loving this trend right now.  A lot of the styles are so comfortable, and the light gauzy fabrics are perfect for the stifling Florida heat.  I am all for a trend that keeps me comfortable and stylish at the same time!  What more can you ask for?

Here are some fun bohemian looks that are affordable too!  Enjoy.


Thursday, June 26, 2014

High/Low Anthropologie Style Glassware

There are several options for this beautiful vintage style juice glass from Anthropologie.  I love the collected look of this style of juice glasses.  They seem like something that you would have stumbled across during a trip to a vintage or antique store. These come in several color options and in a few different price points.  A set of these beauties would add fun and color to any table!


1. This indoor/outdoor set is made of polycarbonate and is available in blue, clear, or yellow for $44 for a set of 6

2. These lovelies are glass options, which come in five different colors for $6 each.

3. This is the major steal!  These indoor/outdoor glasses come in two sizes; $2 each for the smaller and $2.50 for the larger. Can't beat that!

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

Nautical Outfit Finds

Yes, I my mind is still stuck on the beach.  Actually, I think right now it is sitting in a lounge chair having a Pina Colada.  If only I were there with it!  All this beach mindset had me thinking today about nautical styled outfits and accessories.  I have a true love for nautical looks.  I think it is deeply embedded in my fixation on striped clothing.  The two just go hand in hand.  To me, nautical styling always feels so fresh and clean and perfect for Summer.  Sometimes I think that just looking like you are ready to jump on a boat and go sailing for the day can lighten your mood!

Today I gathered together some fun nautical outfit finds - enjoy!

(I think half of these picks are from C. Wonder - but I just couldn't resist- they are such great accessories, and on big time sale!)


Striped Belt  //  Whale Tale Link Bracelet  //  Seahorse Stud Earrings  //  Signal Flag Bangle

I am linking up with Because Shanna Said So  - check out her site here:



Monday, June 23, 2014

Beach House Inspired Design


Our family had a wonderful 3 days this past weekend spending time at the beach at a friend's condo.  Even though we live only a short 30 minute drive from the beach, and we frequently go for the day or afternoon, something about staying at the beach for a few days is such a different experience.  Waking up with a view of the ocean and sitting on a balcony with a cup of coffee listening to the breaking waves is just the perfect beginning to the day.  A few days at the beach is always the perfect prescription to calm my soul and refocus.

With all this in mind, I was daydreaming a bit about how I would decorate my own beach house, if such a thing actually existed.  Maybe someday.  But for now, I can dream a little, right?  Navy and coral is one of my current favorite color combinations.  I chose neutral colored furniture and brightened things up with the navy and coral accents.  To me it feels fresh and clean; a room I would love to sit in and stare at an ocean view.


Friday, June 20, 2014

Little Kid/Big Kid Transition Room

Today I am sharing some older photos of what my 7 year old daughter's room used to look like.  I wish I had better photos of this room to share, but they were taken 5 years ago, so posting them on a blog was nowhere even close to being on my mind.  This room was bold, and really nontraditional for a toddler room, but I just loved it.  The wall color was taken from the lead fabric, which in addition to an animal toile print, also had a pinstripe of deep and medium rouge pink.  I am usually a proponent of wrapping the wall color up onto the ceiling (it really heightens the room in most cases), but with this color I chickened out.  So instead we painted it the trim color and I ordered vinyl stick-on polka dots to mimic the white polka dots on the area rug.  The deep wall color worked in this room for one main reason - light.  This room is at the front of the house and has two large windows.  All the light that floods the room helped to offset the boldness of the wall color.
This room has been on my mind because I am starting to get my thoughts together to redesign my youngest daughter's bedroom.  She now resides in this very room, but it doesn't look anything like this anymore.  It was a somewhat Shabby Chic sort of nursery, but now has turned into a neglected mish-mash of a toddler room.  I am just in the planning stages now.  I never seem to have too much trouble deciding what I want to do, just tons of trouble finding exactly what I have pictured in my mind!  I will keep you all posted as it progresses!

Have a great weekend, and don't be afraid to be bold in your design choices!




Thursday, June 19, 2014

OOTD - The Everyday Basic Outfit

As an at-home mother of two, I feel like I tend to have a formula in the way that I dress.  One of my constant goals is to break away from that formula.  I really have a tendency to get into a rut when it comes to getting dressed.  This may have a lot to do with the fact that I am constantly running behind in the morning.  I always have the best of intentions when planning out the timing of my day, but inevitably some minor catastrophe happens and the whole thing is thrown off.  Then I find myself standing in my closet with five minutes left until I need to leave for wherever I am headed, and one child is asking her 200th question of the morning, and the other is clomping around in a pair of my high heels.  (Sound familiar to anyone?)  So, at this particular moment of my day, any sort of outfit inspiration goes right out the window in favor of the quick and easy solution.  Back to the formula.  

For me, the formula is a pair of dark skinny jeans, a solid color top, and my all-time favorite flats.  The last step is to throw on some jewelry (preferably a bold necklace to give the illusion that some thought went into my look) and I am done.  Today was exactly that day.  Pictured below is specifically what I wore today, a picture perfect "formulaic outfit".

Do you have an outfit formula?  If so, share it!


Watch  //  Skinny Jeans  //  Nude Flats


Today I am participating in a Summer Style Linkup.  Check it out by clicking below!

Mix & Match Fashion

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Dainty Delicate Jewerlry

I have long been a fan of statement jewelry.  The bigger and more dramatic the necklace, the better.  I love stacks of colorful bracelets, cocktail rings, and noticeable earrings.  Granted, the key to making statement jewelry work is all about balance.  Pairing a large piece with smaller accompanying pieces is the best bet in most cases, I have found.  Lately, however, I have also been feeling drawn to delicate jewelry pieces.  Light, airy, and feminine pieces of jewelry have really been catching my eye.  Don't get me wrong, I am not even close to abandoning my statement pieces.  On the contrary, I wear them more often than naught, but I have also been changing things up with mini options every now and then.

 How fun are these delicate jewelry options?



Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Casual Summer Dresses

I always love casual dresses not just for their comfort, but also because they make life (well, life in terms of getting dressed in the morning) so much easier.  Mornings are so busy for us all, I am sure, and having even one less decision to make can be such a welcome gift some days.  Not to mention that something about wearing a dress just always makes me feel just a little more put together; and that is usually the start of a good day.

The dresses I have featured today are all, feminine, casual yet polished, and fun picks for Summer.  What is your favorite Summer dress style?


Aqua Sundress  //      Black and White Stripe Dress      //  Bird Print Dress

Today I am linking up with Because Shanna Said So  Be sure to visit her site!

Monday, June 16, 2014

Dressing Up A Basic Bathroom

We have all seen plenty of photos of beautiful bathrooms to swoon over.  Amazing tile details, custom cabinetry, plumbing fixtures that look like artwork...it is all so inspiring, and so expensive.  You might be feeling a bit defeated by all of these images you often see.  Spending $15,000 on a bathroom remodel may not be in your future (it is certainly not in mine), but don't despair.  You don't have to spend a fortune to make your bathroom a space you will love.  So, you might be looking for some simple ideas to revive a basic bathroom and add some style without completely mortgaging your house to do it.  A big impact can be made with a little effort and as much budget as you are willing to spend.

Here are photos of two of the bathrooms in my house.  These are both what I would consider a normal bathroom layout.  They both have a single vanity, a standard size bathtub and a commode.  



A few tips to dress up a basic bathroom:

  • One of my favorite tips is to take a shower curtain all the way to the ceiling.  This makes the bathtub/shower more of a focal point in the room.  There are two ways to achieve this.  One is to have a shower curtain custom made.  This can be an expensive option, but doesn't have to be.  Purchasing the fabric yourself and having a local seamstress sew it may end up being more affordable that you may anticipate.  The other option is to use a standard shower curtain and hang a fabric valance above it.  You can see this option in both the photos above.  In the yellow bath, I have the curtain and valance, and an additional panel that ties off to the right to cover an awkward short wall that needed to be hidden.  In the lower photo I have split panels that tie off to either side.  This really frames the bathtub.  If you are wondering how someone takes a shower in this bathroom, there is a liner hidden behind one of the side panels that can be pulled closed.   
  • Add artwork!  Any sort of art will work in a bathroom.  Do not fall into the rut of thinking that only certain types of images and art are appropriate for the bath.  Just because you are in the same room as the bathtub doesn't mean you need a watercolor of a bathtub on the wall.  Switch things up.  
  • Plants and flowers are a great addition to the bathroom counter top.  A little live greenery is always a nice addition (bathroom included).
  • Swap out that fuzzy bath rug for a real area rug.  Just be thoughtful about the rug you choose.  Only use a tufted wool rug in a bath that doesn't have frequent water splashing.  A powder bath is a perfect place for a lovely wool tufted rug.  Otherwise, using a flat woven rug or synthetic area rug is a great addition of color and pattern, and doesn't look like the fluffy fuzzy contoured rug that wrapped around the toilet at your grandmother's house.  
  • A framed mirror always dresses up a space and adds a more finished element than a flat piece of mirror. 
  • While I know that the word wallpaper strikes fear into the hearts of many, don't be scared.  A bathroom, especially a powder bathroom is the perfect place to try a beautiful wallpaper.  Small space means small commitment, but a wallpaper can make such a big impact in a small space.  Just think about it.  There are so many options of styles available, not just tiny floral prints.  You might come around.  
Good luck dressing up your bathroom!


Friday, June 13, 2014

Summer Trends: Eyelet

Eyelet fabric just seems to epitomize Summer to me.  I love how fresh and feminine it feels.  Eyelet is always classic in white, of course; you really can't go wrong with it.  However, now there are so many options of colorful and fun eyelet out right now.  Here are just a few of my favorite eyelet options.




Thursday, June 12, 2014

Bohemian Styling Of A Chesterfield Sofa

Oh how I love a chesterfield sofa.  They work in so many different styles of decor and they provide such a strong element of style wherever they are placed.  So, yesterday, I was wandering around Homegoods (one of my favorite hobbies) when I came upon this beauty.  I practically threw myself on top of it and claimed it as mine, but then I remembered that I have absolutely nowhere to place it.  Sigh.  I was so sad to walk away from such an amazing deal.

So then I started thinking about how I would style such a fantastic sofa.  As I mentioned before, a chesterfield sofa can be used in just about any style of decor and there are so many different ways my imagination can go with this one.  I started picturing it with fun and funky colorful bohemian accents; something really girly and lighthearted.  This is such a departure from my usual style, that it is refreshing to play this way.  Here is my girly bohemian take on this chesterfield.

Let me know what you think!  Also, let me know if you would like to see it styled in a different way.

Embroidered Pillows  //  Sofa From Homegoods  // Chandelier




Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Rainy Day Fashion Finds

Today has been a rainy, rainy day.  Here in Central Florida, the afternoon thunderstorm is a daily occurrence.  Let's face it, a rain storm can really ruin a well planned look.  Over the years, I have ruined several pair of shoes due to being caught in a rainstorm while out running errands.  I finally smartened up and started keeping a pair of old flip flops in my car for just that reason.  So, if you ever see me wandering around Target wearing rubber flip flops that in no way match my clothes, you now will know why.

All this rain had me thinking about rainy day outfits and some fun things to make a dreary, rainy day feel brighter.  I mean, some cute rain boots would brighten anyone's day, right?

Heart Tote Bag  //  Rain Boots and a similar option


Umbrella  //  Anorak  //  Phone Case
Cross Body Bag  //  Rain Boots


Today I am linking up with Because Shanna Said So, one of my favorite fashion blogs.  Check her out here:


Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Hooker Furniture at Joss and Main

Have you ever visited the website Joss and Main?  It has lately become one of my favorite sites to visit and browse for furniture and home goods.  The deals are great and there is ample variety.  Today they have a curated collection of Hooker Furniture featured.  Hooker Furniture is one of the furniture lines that we used frequently when I was working at the design firm (what I like to refer to as my "previous life").  Hooker Furniture gives the consumer a lot of style for a reasonable price.  That price is made even more reasonable by the current sale at Joss and Main.  I have picked a few of my favorites from the collection.  All of these pieces can be found by following this link.

Great Dining Room pieces...


Bedside chests with great style...


Fun accent pieces that will add interest to any room...


Stop by Joss and Main and take a look.  You never know what you might find, but I can bet it will be fantastic!

Monday, June 9, 2014

Statement Necklaces

Statement necklaces are totally my thing.  I just love accessories. I have way too many (just don't tell my husband I admitted that).   They way that a really great and dramatic necklace can take a mundane outfit and make it great is just awesome.  I am planning on riding this statement necklace trend as long as possible.  I am really keeping my fingers crossed that it stays around for a nice, long time.

They can tend to be pricey, however, which is not so much fun.  As I have said before, I really am not a fan of spending a lot of money on a style that could be gone in no time.  But I would also suggest not spending any money on something that looks cheap.  Spending even a small amount of money on a piece of jewelry that looks like it will fall apart any minute, is still a waste of money.  This is especially true because there are so many resources out there where you can find amazing deals on great looking pieces that won't leave you with shopper's remorse.

On that note, here are some great necklaces I have had my eye on lately.

Top Row:  1.  //   2.  //  3.
Bottom Row:  4.  //  5.  //  6.


Friday, June 6, 2014

Minimalist White Dress

I came across this white dress on the Zara website and I just love it.  I have a tendency to dress in a lot of color and print (stripes especially), so I am particularly drawn to this dress and this whole outfit idea board because it is so contrary to what I usually wear.  I am committed to trying to be better about not only choosing quality pieces to purchase, but also investing in some sophisticated, classic pieces that can stand on their own, much like this dress.  Not to mention the fact that I am really scouting for a white dress for the Summertime.  What is top on your list for this Summer?

Tote Bag another option that is on Sale here!  //  Watch  //  Bangle Bracelet  //

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Father's Day Gift Ideas


Father's Day is always a tough one for me.  In my experience, anytime I ask a man (in this case my Dad or my Husband) for suggestions on a gift I can give them, the response is usually a long drawn out silence followed by "I don't know" or, "I don't really need anything".  Granted, it does get a little bit harder to buy gifts for your spouse as time goes on, because you generally get to a place in life where if you really want something, you just go out and get it yourself.  However, you could ask me that question at any given moment and I could immediately give you at least 5 solid suggestions.  Perhaps that just says something negative about me.  I'll think on that.

This Father's Day I did tell my husband that I needed his help for this post, so he had to give me actual suggestions.  His answers generally revolved around activities.  Playing a round of golf, being able to watch the golf tournament on Sunday afternoon, having a BBQ dinner.  All these things he shall have, but I always seem to feel the need to give a tangible gift for any holiday where gift giving is the norm.  So, if you are like me, and are searching your mind for gift ideas for the Husband or Dad in your life, here are a few suggestions.

1. A fun deck of playing cards with tons of info on beer and beer related trivia.
2. These ice molds create solid spheres of ice (about tennis ball sized) perfect for a drink.  So cool!
3. A beer tasting tool kit.  What every man needs.
4. A grown up looking flask.


1. This father and son shaving kit is just too cute.  And think of how thrilled the little guy would be.
2. A monogrammed case for all his watches.
3. This blue tooth speaker takes music to a whole new level of style with it's leather case.
4. These slip on sneakers look comfy and cool.
5. A great looking chronograph watch at a reasonable price.

1. A desktop golf set for those boring moments at work.
2. The Leatherman all in one tool will turn your guy into MacGyver in no time.
3. A personalized engraved baseball bat for the ball fan.
4. Flip flops with a bottle opener in the bottom.  Need I say more?
5. Ring toss game for those fun family days at the beach.

Today I am linking up with the supremely lovely blogger Shanna of www.becauseshannasaidso.com
Be sure to check out her site!


Tuesday, June 3, 2014

The Evolution Of A Dining Room Design

I started out creating today's post with the idea of making a design board for a French Country dining room.  As I was looking for furnishings, I found this dining table and just loved it.  So, as often can happen in reality, my design was taken in a new direction organically.  I just followed the direction of a piece that I truly loved.  I ended up with a room design that is an eclectic mix of French, Traditional and Transitional styles, all with a rustic touch.
Area Rug //  Chandelier  //  Buffet Lamp  //  Round Mirror  //

Monday, June 2, 2014

Caged Heels

Lately I have really had my eye out for a pair of caged heels.  I am always hesitant to spend a lot on something trendy, though it can be really tempting.  Here are a few I have been looking at.

1.  //   2.   //   3.
4.  //  5.   //  6.

Which one should I choose?  Which is your favorite?  Leave me a comment and let me know!
 
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