Desert Vacation Style

 This past weekend, Nate and I finally went back to Palm Springs for a mini getaway. After a long hiatus due to restrictions during the height of the pandemic, it felt so good to be back. I really missed the colorful desert oasis! It's the one place where I feel compelled to do absolutely nothing but relax by a pool, enjoy the sun and beautiful views, and just escape. 

I brought three dresses with me on this trip, but the one I'm wearing below was by far my favorite. I love a halter style maxi dress. It may be hard to tell, but the background of it is a dark green with large blush and white flowers. It also has a keyhole that's fun without being too revealing. It really combines two trends I am living for at the moment: bright colors and sexy cut-out dresses. You'll be seeing them everywhere!

Wearing // Abercrombie & Fitch dress, Sezane shoes and bag, Gorjana bracelets, rings, and coin necklace

I plan on getting a ton of wear out of it in the coming months. I'm getting so excited because we are entering into my favorite time of year. More day trips, more road trips, and hopefully more time with family and friends. Even just a couple days away can be enough to recharge. 

Do you have any little getaways planned, or perhaps a big trip coming up? I hope you all are doing well! 

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Express Flexx Jeans

 I've been on the hunt for a great fitting pair of jeans since last year. Like probably most of you, I struggle to find a brand that I can stick with because styles and sizing vary so differently. I do love the last pair I bought, but I had been wanting something more basic that I could wear with everything. I tried Good American, Abercrombie & Fitch, Kut From The Cloth, and Target but I wasn't really thrilled with any of them. It was a game of "too much stretch" or "not enough." 

Linking what's available // Express jeans, Sezane bag, Similar flats

Linking what's available// Express jeans, Express bodysuit, Sezane bag and shoes

Before giving up on my quest, I decided to give Express jeans another try. Express has long been one of my favorite retailers, and they've definitely made a bit of a comeback for me after a few years of disappointment. Totally on a whim, I ordered their new Flexx jeans. Super high waist, the perfect shade of medium blue, short length to ensure I don't need to hem them, and just the right amount of stretch. Meet my new favorite skinny jeans! I know skinny styles are out, but I still prefer them over wide leg silhouettes. I'm obviously a creature of habit in that way, but I just find them to be more flattering. So why are they called Flexx? They move with your body, and come in sizes XS - XL instead of the usual standard sizing. For example, I am usually a size 8 or 29 in denim. I took a medium which is meant for sizes 6-10. I was skeptical of that amount of range, but once on my body, they hugged my curves perfectly without feeling loose nor restrictive. Basically, they feel like leggings. No gap in the waistband, but not tight in the legs either. I want them in every wash. I highly recommend giving them a try if you're shopping for jeans this Spring! 

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Faux Silk Smocked Waist Mini Dress

 When we went into lockdown last Spring, I remember writing that dressing up was one of the (trivial) things I was missing the most. Now that things are finally getting back to normal, I'm wearing all of the pretty dresses I can to make up for lost time. 

Wearing // Abercrombie dress (I got the M petite), Jeffrey Campbell sandals (sold out but love these), Gorjana bracelet

This dress is from a place I used to idolize in college, but couldn't really afford to shop in on my student budget. Abercrombie & Fitch has come a long way since then! They are much more size inclusive, and their website no longer makes me feel guilty for not being a size 00. My friend Gina told me to check it out a couple years ago when I think they were beginning to transition, but I still felt too sheepish to take a look. I ended up buying some of their active wear during the Fall, and now I check in (just to look) fairly regularly. 

When I saw this adorable smocked dress on their site, I knew it would be perfect for Spring and Summer. Smocked dresses are having a big moment right now and I'm so glad because it's such a flattering, comfortable trend. My mom used to wear smocked everything when she was in her 20's and 30's so the look is purely nostalgic for me. So is this pretty mint color! The dress slips on overhead and is fully lined. The silhouette is feminine and airy - exactly how I plan on feeling for the next few hot months. 

Are you buying any new dresses? You'll definitely see them a lot here! 

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The Denim Jacket I'm Wearing All Spring Long

 A denim jacket for Spring is nothing new. In fact, wearing one this time of year is as groundbreaking as a floral dress. But for me, there's always been a struggle to find the right fit and wash. I already own one in a darker wash, but I still craved something lighter. I scoured the internet and looked at all of my favorite retailers until I stumbled upon one while I was buying laundry detergent and sparkling water at Target. Of course. 

Wearing // Target denim jacket, Good American bodysuit, Bohme skirt, Gorjana bracelet

I really try my hardest to avoid browsing Target's clothes. Not because I don't love their selection, but because it's so easy to waste money there! But one look at this perfectly light, sky-blue denim jacket and I knew it was going to be a Spring wardrobe staple for (hopefully) years to come. It fits true to size and looks great over dresses or with a flowy tiered skirt like I'm wearing here. Perfect for days when the sun is shining but the temperature is a little cool. So while Gen Z is still obsessed with millennials and our side parts, skinny jeans, and apparently now our denim jackets, I'm just now hitting my stride with my idea of the perfect one. 

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Jen7 Jeans + Good American Bodysuit

 It's been a long time since a fresh pair of jeans made their way into my closet, but after buying these on a whim, I'm wondering what's taken me so long! After a year of mostly living in leggings, it's amazing to reach for a pair that makes me feel so put-together. I know skinny jeans have taken a bit of a break this year in favor of more wide-leg or straight styles that skim the legs. Although I love those on other women, I'm still easing my way into the trend, starting with these by the brand Jen7. 

Wearing // Jen7 jeans, Good American bodysuit, Old Navy moto jacket (similar here), Amazon heels

This is my first pair of jeans from the sister brand of 7 For All Mankind, but it may not be my last! What I love most about them is the fit. They hug my hips and thighs nicely but have more room in the legs. The high waist is really flattering, all accentuated by a bow.  I think that's such a cute touch! I also love the lighter wash for Spring and Summer. They look more cropped on the model than on my 5'2 frame, but they still hit right around my ankle and are the perfect length for both heels and flats. 

Let's also briefly talk about the bodysuit I'm wearing. It's another trend that I've been very curious about, but have taken my time in buying just the right one. Aside from the obvious feeling like I'm wearing an adult onesie, I really love this bodysuit from Good American. It has the perfect amount of stretch and is thick enough to wear a regular bra with (or not). I liked it so much that I also bought it in black, and plan to wear both all Summer with skirts and shorts. These new basics are going to get so much wear, and I'll show you how in the next few posts! 

Are you trying any of the new trends lately? 

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Flattering Dress Silhouettes for Petites

Like many of you, I'm growing tired of leggings and sweat pants day in and day out. Spring is my favorite season to dress for, but obviously with the current public health pandemic, everything has been put on hold. In the spirit of Spring, I wanted to put together a quick round-up on the dress silhouettes I find most flattering for petite women. We should all wear what makes us feel confident and beautiful, but there are some definite styles that work especially well on ladies 5'4 and under.


#1 Fit and Flare: This is my most worn silhouette, and the one I personally feel the most comfortable wearing. It emphasizes the upper body, creates the illusion of a smaller waist, and then skims away from the lower body like an hourglass. It's an ultra feminine look that is universally flattering no matter your body type.

#2 Midi: This particular silhouette used to scare me away because it does seem antithetical to elongating a shorter frame. However, I actually love midi styles on petite women! I often hear petites saying that they can't wear a midi or maxi dress because it makes them appear even shorter, but there are a few details to keep in mind. First, I favor one in a solid color as opposed to a busy print. Second, although they are whimsical and gorgeous, I prefer midis that don't have big ruffles, long sleeves, or excessive amounts of extra fabric. Last, I love layering a shorter jacket on top that breaks up the proportions a bit.

#3 Wrap or Faux Wrap: Similar to a fit and flare style, wrap or faux wrap dresses are universally flattering because they create an hourglass shape. They drape nicely over the body and cinch in the waist, so they are perfectly slimming. A V-neckline also adds to the effect. Whether you're curvy or straight, this style will make you look and feel polished.

#4 BodyCon: I'm curvy on the lower half, so my instinct is to steer clear from anything form fitting. However, I was pleasantly surprised a couple years ago when I discovered this now blogger favorite bodycon dress. The ruching throughout the waist helps conceal a not-so-flat stomach while also cinching the waist at its smallest area. The tulip hem comes to right above the knees, elongating the legs. I love wearing mine with a light, airy kimono during the Summer months. If you're curvy, this can still feel like a tricky style to pull off, but hey. There's nothing wrong with flaunting those curves! And if you'd like the illusion of extra curves, this style helps to do just that.

I have no idea when things will get back to normal, but I'll be wearing all of these dresses no matter what! What are your go-to dresses? I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

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Why I'm Loving Espadrilles

I've never really been much of a shoe girl. I know I know, I'm just waiting to get my style card revoked! Don't get me wrong, I love shoes. I admire them like little works of art. I just don't feel the need to own many pairs, and I choose comfort above everything else. Gone are the days of trying to make stilettos happen. I failed pretty miserably at walking in them in my twenties, and now that I'm almost thirty-five and am no longer so preoccupied with what others think, I choose my footwear more wisely. Ballet flats at a bar on a Saturday night? Oh yeah, I do it.

I really believe that a few pairs of classic, practical shoes can help support any wardrobe. A pair of flat sandals, a neutral wedge, some black suede pumps, and a pair of...espadrilles? I did a little digging and it turns out that espadrilles have been around since the 13th century! They look so modern, and yet they're actually a classic shoe.

Wearing //

MinkPink tea dress on sale (runs large)

North Star layered necklace

Soludos wedge espadrilles

Madewell mini transport tote

Beauty //

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

Fenty Beauty Powder in Lavender 

L'Oreal Lip Ink in "I Create"

These canvas lace up beauties have a wedge, but I also wear my flat pair quite a bit. The fibre sole is very soft and flexible, so they are super comfortable for walking. They look so chic and feminine when worn with a dress, but they also pair well with jeans and shorts for a casual cool vibe. I know they're making the rounds on social media and are very trendy at the moment, but I find them to be an essential Spring and Summer shoe. I am partial to the brand Soludos, but many designers have a version. If you haven't already, give them a try!

Linking up with On The Daily Express, Straight A Style

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Rose Haven Heritage Garden

I've lived in Temecula almost all of my life, and yet I had no idea this beautiful garden even existed! Living in the suburbs, there are parks almost on every corner, but none as lovely as Rose Haven Heritage Garden.

Wearing // 

Ann Taylor dress, pretty midi dress here on sale

Soludos espadrilles

Clare V petite alice bag

Gorjana rings

I think I saw an acquaintance post about the garden on her Instagram, so when we had a warm sunny day last week, Nate and I decided to go see it for ourselves. We were not disappointed! It's a lush sprawling property with walking paths, picnic areas, and rows upon rows of colorful flowers, succulents, and of course fragrant roses. The scent in the garden was incredible, I wanted to bottle it up! Even though there were quite a few people walking around taking photos, the garden felt very peaceful. Next time we plan on packing a light lunch and taking advantage of their picnic tables or gazebos. 

This pink pleated midi dress has definitely been loved since I bought it last Spring. I can't tell you how often I reach for it, especially on days when I want to look a bit dressed up. I'm happy to see that midi lengths are still really popular because they're so feminine and so my style! I've worn this dress with flat sandals on the beach, with high heels for a nice celebratory dinner, and now with wedge espadrilles in a garden surrounded by roses.

Where will it be worn next?

Linking up with I Do deClaire

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Summer Staples // Lace Kimono Top + Jeans

I feel I'm in my element when I'm outside in the beautiful warm sunshine, on a patio or deck, chilled glass of white wine in hand. I did it this past weekend, and I'd like to do it every weekend from now until eternity.

It was a nice little taste, but Summer isn't quite ready just yet. We're still in the transitional phase, but every day I'm more and more excited about wearing some of the new pieces I've bought recently. I like to call them my Summer staples because I know I'll be wearing them all season long.

Wearing // 

Lace Kimono Top

LOFT jeans

Madewell tote

Steven sandals

North Star layering necklace

Beauty //

Glossier Boy Brow

Glossier Cloud Paint in Dusk

Milani highlighter palette

Let's start with this kimono style top. I bought it blindly online from a boutique called Ooh La Luxe. They have a great range of bohemian style pieces, and while browsing their new arrivals section I fell in love with the top's white lace, billowy sleeves, and tie front. It's completely sheer so I suggest a nude camisole or even bodysuit underneath. Tops that are a little more interesting than your average plain tee are great this time of year. I wore it with some lighter wash jeans from LOFT, flat cognac sandals, and a fun lilac tote for a bit more color. All of these are basic staple items that will get a ton of use this Summer.

What are some of your Summer staples?

Linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style

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Styling Floral Kimonos + New Bag

Happy last week of May! I hope you all enjoyed the long memorial day weekend and are feeling grateful, recharged, and excited for the beginning of Summer. We had a pretty lazy three days, but I was able to spend some time with girlfriends and that's always good for the soul. We also watched motocross, went to a winery, did some cleaning around the house, and of course took some blog photos.

Wearing // 

Sole Society floral kimono

Leith bodycon dress

Steven sandals

Madewell mini transport tote

It rained most of the weekend but Saturday was gorgeous! It was sunny and in the mid 70's so naturally I wanted to be outside all day. I reached for a long floral kimono from Sole Society to layer on top of a basic bodycon dress. I'm a huge kimono fan, as they look so feminine over form fitting dresses, shorts, or jeans. As long as the rest of your outfit is streamlined, a flowing kimono is a fabulous way to add dimension and movement. I've purchased a handful the last few Summers, but this print is by far my favorite. I love the blues, greens, and pinks against the white background. It really looks and feels effortless. More styling ideas here and here.

Another thing I quickly want to mention is my new lilac bag. I don't buy handbags very often, maybe one or two per year but I'm always looking for one that's moderately priced, fairly durable, and versatile. This one by Madewell fit the bill. It is such a practical little tote and I can't emphasize that enough! It can be carried by the handles, over one shoulder, or worn crossbody style. If you're in the market for a pretty Summer bag, I highly recommend one of the lighter colors but it also comes in black and cognac as well.

How do you feel about kimonos? I see them everywhere!

I'll be back on Friday with my monthly edit 💋

In the meantime, linking up with On The Daily Express and Straight A Style. 

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