White Knit Dress With A Cropped Cardigan

 Happy February! I hope you all had a productive start to the new year. My January was spent cleaning, organizing, and longing for warmer weather. I think everyone knows that I'm a Summer girl through and through, so this rainy cold Winter has been messing with my mood a bit. 

I miss wearing dresses so I've been trying to get creative with layering. I bought this white knit midi dress from Abercrombie in the Fall, and the length and fabric make it perfect for mixing with other lux items like a chunky cropped cardigan. I normally wear this cardigan with high waist jeans, but it's a great option to layer over a dress! I don't like showing too much skin anyway, and this is just another simple way to style it. I think the result looks modern and fresh. 

Wearing // Abercrombie & Fitch knit midi dress, Similar cropped cardigan here, here, and here

Heels, Sezane bag in a different color, Gorjana necklace 

These exact pieces are either close to selling out or are sold out, but I linked other options on my LTK page. Valentine's Day is coming up soon and this is a fun outfit if you're not into traditional pinks and reds. I personally love them but I would do a red bag or a blush heel instead of going all out. I like subtle when it comes to holiday outfits...

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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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Recent Spring Outfits I'm Wearing on Repeat

I'm making an effort to dress in real clothes (some days), and documenting what I put together is actually a huge mood boost. These aren't exactly groundbreaking outfits, and taking snapshots of them in my loft isn't how I'd like to share them with you, but for now it'll have to do. Spring is moving along quickly, and the weather has been so perfect that I've spent every afternoon outside in my backyard soaking up as much as I can. In-between reading this book and making some healthy lunches, I'm daydreaming about when I can truly enjoy getting dressed again. Normally during Spring, I'm planning outfits for outdoor festivals, concerts, and trips. Now we are in a perpetual state of...who knows? The upside is that I'm getting my money's worth on all of my clothes, and I'm getting more comfortable with repeating outfits on a weekly basis! Here are some recent favorites.

This kimono can be worn as a dress, but lately I've been wearing it open and layered over another (bodycon) dress.

I bought this floral swimsuit coverup in late February, fully expecting to wear it in Palm Springs during our yearly getaway. During a heat wave a couple weeks ago, I wore it to sit on my patio.

Jeans and a tee, always my go-to in Spring & Summer. I love the desert print on this one. 

Or if it's too warm out, a loose tee and 4 year old denim distressed shorts will work! 

An olive utility jacket is a Spring staple. I just love the look during cooler days. 

I hope everyone is doing well and taking care! I'll be back on Wednesday 💋

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The Monthly Edit // Apr. '20

"Quiet the mind and the soul will speak."

- Buddha

I took a drive on Wednesday morning through the wineries. I woke up to a glorious blue sky with painted clouds, took one look at my car keys sitting on the kitchen counter, grabbed a very excited Nettie, and made a beeline for the door. I needed to clear my head, and what better way to to do that than by driving through the valley with all the windows down on a sunny day.

The warm air smelled of jasmine and orange blossoms. After the rain we had at the beginning of the month, the barren vineyards had transformed into a sea of lush emerald green. I turned the radio up, laughed at Nettie's lips flapping in the wind as she stuck her head out the window, and let out a huge breath that I had been holding for what felt like weeks. The beginning of April dragged on, but the ending was exactly what I needed. 

Fazeli & Robert Renzoni Winery

We watched one of our favorite shows on televison, Ozark. We only allowed ourselves two episodes per night, but the season went so quickly and was so gripping that we felt kind of depressed once it was over. If you haven't watched the series, you must! Just make sure you start at season 1. Other notable shows included "How to Fix a Drug Scandal" which I highly recommend, and The Housewives of New York City and Beverly Hills. I like watching The Housewives back to back with a glass of wine in hand. Say what you will about reality shows, but they offer a fun break from actual reality.

A few of my favorite people have May birthdays, so I searched Etsy for personalized meaningful gifts. I can't be with them physically this year, but that doesn't mean I can't still wish them a happy birthday! Plus, I'm all about supporting small shops and businesses now.


A family member who is licensed in the practice of mindfulness started a Zoom workshop, and I'm learning so much already. The class is once a week for two hours, and along with therapy sessions, it is really teaching me how to be present in my own life. We as humans have over 60,000 thoughts per day, and much of those days are lived on autopilot. No wonder we are anxious, distracted, and overwhelmed.

It's been pretty warm the last couple weeks (dare I say hot) so I ditched my joggers and long sleeve shirts for shorts, camisoles, and kimonos. I really only dressed up a bit for Zoom calls and virtual happy hours, but it was a nice excuse!

Nate and I spent last weekend cleaning up our backyard. It was overgrown with weeds. We have rented this house for a few years, and although there are many things we aren't allowed to change about it, we do what we can to keep things nice and make it feel like home. We really want to buy our own home, but with everything going on now, we will have to wait longer than we expected.

Happy May! I hope everyone is going to have a great month. Summer is near...

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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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A Versatile Kimono-Style Dress For Spring

This outfit was photographed about two weeks ago, the last time I really put myself together and enjoyed a night out. I was so excited to show you one of my favorite Spring trends, a versatile take on a kimono-style dress that can also be worn open. I wear kimonos a lot in Summer with simple tanks and camisoles, so the option of wearing one as a dress is just perfect. In this way, it actually looks quite polished, sort of a fun take on a shirtdress. But it can also be dressed way down. Picture it over a bathing suit - I definitely plan on wearing it as a coverup over a black bikini.

Wearing // Vici kimono dress, Target sandals, Gorjana necklace and rings, Mejuri necklace, Similar Sezane bag

I love the neutral print, and the draped sleeves are really flattering. Now that I think of it, I'll wear it again this weekend over some black leggings since that seems to be my outfit of choice for the foreseeable future. Like all of you (I hope), I've been doing what I can to occupy myself at home:

1. Streaming podcasts, shows, movies, audiobooks and music. Music has been on practially 24/7 around here. Mostly alternative rock or classic rock.
2. Cooking and cleaning. I'm on phase one of getting the house scrubbed down but I really need to declutter next!
3. Facetiming with friends and family. I'm reaching out to people I haven't spoken to in months.
4. Reading and journaling. This moment is one for the history books, so making notes on what's going on may prove to be valuable one day.
5. Giving myself a much-needed manicure, face mask, and hair conditioning treatment. It's the little things that allow for some normalcy.
6. Still working at the shop and praying our small business can survive this.
7. We have a few house projects in mind, especially our backyard that is covered in weeds!
8. We plan on taking a long drive down the coast this weekend to get some fresh air, obviously being mindful of staying far away from others if we get out to stretch our legs. A walk along the shore sounds amazing but we'll see.

I was really hoping to hear from you earlier in the week after my last post, but it's been crickets. I totally understand though. Sometimes I feel like I'm writing for an audience of one, but I'm okay with that. I have to be. This blog was born out of a need for sanity, and it will continue to serve that purpose regardless of who stops by or not...although I really would love to hear from you! This would be a great time to build up our little online blogging community again. That's my vision anyway.

I hope you're all taking care.

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All Dressed Up

My favorite time to shop is in the early stages of Spring. I love the feminine silhouettes and prints, especially floral. There's just something so fun about putting on a flirty little dress and a great pair of heels. It's been awhile since I got all dressed up (with seemingly nowhere to go), but Nate's been working at the shop non-stop and when he wanted to take me out, I happily obliged! There's no time like the present.

Wearing // Red Dress Boutique floral dress, Similar nude clutch, Sam Edelman pumps in similar color, Gorjana rings & necklace

 I hesitated showing it to you guys again, but this dress is still available in case any of you are looking for a pretty Spring outfit. I later put a denim jacket over it and I'm sorry I didn't take more photos. Layering is just another way to show how versatile dresses can be when transitioning to a new warmer season. 

For what it's worth, I first heard of Red Dress on Instagram, as they seem to collaborate with a lot of popular bloggers. I'm usually leery of trying clothes from smaller online boutiques because fit is often hit or miss. But their selection of dresses is amazing, so I went ahead and got my usual size and thankfully it worked out! I wouldn't hesitate to buy something else. As for the heels, these are still my favorite! I don't wear heels nearly as often as I used to, but I still think a classic pair of suede pumps is a wardrobe staple. You never know when an occasion might call for them. 

How are you all doing? I've been managing a crazy migraine off and on for the better part of a week, thus my lack of posting. I hope you're all staying healthy 💋

Linking up with Laura from I Do deClaire

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A Different Kind Of Valentine's Day Post

I'm sure you don't need a reminder that Valentine's Day is almost here, so instead of talking about what I'll be doing to celebrate, I want to briefly let you in on something.

I've been struggling lately with my mood, my overall outlook on the world, and with loving myself. There have been way too many days than I'd care to admit that I haven't gotten dressed or even left the house. When I have gone out things have actually been good, but always with the anticipation of retreating to my bed as quickly as possible. I know what this means, as it's all too familiar. The thing about managing depression and anxiety is that just when you feel like you've conquered them, they come back with a vengeance. They sneak up. It's so disheartening, and there's a lot of guilt associated with it because there really is so much to be grateful for.

I look around and I see all these wonderful, talented women who are getting things done, accomplishing goals, and living life to the fullest. I always thought I'd be one of them, but instead I feel like I'm just barely treading water. If I'm being completely honest, the only times I've felt human so far this year are these, when I force myself to get dressed to take blog photos. I look at them and wonder if others can tell that this is the first time in about 3 days that I've done my hair and makeup and have put myself together. I ordered this pretty new dress for Spring, and although it is indeed a pretty dress, as soon as I took it off, I immediately felt down again. As a blogger who writes about style and beauty regularly, it's ironic. Sometimes I just feel phony, like I'm portraying myself in ways that aren't real. Nate thinks it's the opposite, that these images really are the real me when I'm not clouded in sadness, anxiety, and guilt. I'd like to believe he's right.

Wearing // Floral dress (wearing medium), Similar sandals, Anthropologie necklace, sold out Madewell bag

I try not to compare my days to someone else's but sometimes it's nearly impossible. There are so many reasons to not feel good enough in today's digital world. I assumed it would be jealousy of another woman's slender figure, perfectly full eyebrows, or voluminous hair. But really, what I'm most envious of are their personalities and the way that they carry themselves. And by they, I mean women I personally know as well as women I've never met. I'm envious of women who have true confidence and who can carry a conversation without staring at the ground or fumbling their words. I'm envious of women who have taken control of their own destiny, who have taken risks to get where they are in their careers. I'm envious of women who don't constantly doubt themselves. These are the things that I envy now, and while all of this should inspire me, when I'm in a funk it just brings about feelings of self-loathing. Not exactly hearts and flowers over here.

I know depression is something I'll always struggle with. It comes and goes in waves, like most things in life. That's the beauty of it I guess. Just when I feel lower than low, something happens or someone says something to snap me back to gratitude. Who knows, by this time next week I might reread this and be embarrassed because I feel great.

I didn't intend to write a dreary post during what's supposed to be a love-filled week, but I just needed to get it off my chest. These feelings will pass. I'm going to put this dress on again for Valentine's Day, and even if my mood isn't quite as high as years past, I'm going to celebrate anyway. I think the hardest love of all, at least for me, is self-love and it's something I have to work on every day. I read a quote somewhere recently that resonated with me so I'll leave it here. "Work with your darkness, but don't let it swallow your light."

Enough about me, how are you all doing? 

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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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Shopping Diaries Vol. 2

I started this series back in February as a way to share the things I add to my closet throughout the year. You'll notice that Spring is my favorite season to shop, with the promise of Summer just around the corner. These are all items that I have purchased since February 22nd, when my first volume was posted. Some of these I've already worn, and some I haven't because it's still too cold. I've included exact links in case you want to view each individual item. If you have any questions, let me know!

North Star Layering Necklace: My friend has a similar celestial necklace I admire, so naturally this caught my eye. I love that it's all one piece! I plan on wearing it with my bathing suits for some daytime sparkle at the beach.

Madewell Mini Transport Tote: I purchased a similar Madewell tote during last year's Nordstrom anniversary sale, but I was disappointed with the color and I didn't care for the perforated leather. Back it went. This tote however is beautiful! The soft lilac color is unique, and the size is ideal. I'm glad I gave Madewell bags a second chance.

Steven Greek Sandals: I already have a pair in white from last Spring, and I enjoy them so much that I got another in cognac. Comfortable, chic, and versatile. They are pretty narrow so if you have wide feet, I recommend sizing up.

Target Leopard Print Bikini Top: Target has long been my go-to for bathing suits, and this leopard print bikini top will mix in nicely with a black bottom I already own. Separates definitely work best for most women!

Sole Society Floral Kimono:  I live in kimonos during the Summer heat. The print on this one by Sole Society will be so pretty with just a simple white tee and jeans.

LOFT Camisoles: Camisoles are great for layering underneath kimonos, cardigans, and jackets. I needed to replenish mine so I bought two from a LOFT sale - one is black and white striped, and the other is a cream color with a scalloped neckline. I got both in my normal petite size.

Ann Taylor Dress: I've already featured my new favorite dress. I think it would be amazing for baby showers, graduations, the office, church, dinners, birthday parties...where isn't it appropriate?!

Ooh La Luxe Lace Tie Top: Tie-front tees are still going strong this year, and this white lace top will be a fun weekend basic I'm sure I'll wear on repeat.

Old Navy High-Rise Elevate Leggings:  I got these for half off, and I absolutely want another! These are the best compression leggings I've tried. They really hold you in and are great for jogging and walking the pup. I went up one size.

What have you been shopping for lately? Are there any trends you're loving? 

Linking up with Gina and Amy Ann.

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Casual Denim For May Grey

Wearing // Lush roll sleeve top, Similar Old Navy rockstar jeans, Similar sandals, Clare V bag, Similar silk scarf, Jewelry featured in this post

Although May is one of my favorite months, I often find myself at a loss in terms of what to wear. We have experienced a lot of grey days complete with some rain, and I've actually been keeping a jacket in my car just in case I get caught in a passing storm. I guess that's to be expected in Spring, and I do really enjoy the mix of warm and cold days. Getting dressed for it? Not so easy!

I've had this roll-sleeve top from Lush for a few months and it's probably the most comfortable one I own. It looks great with leggings and skinnier denim because of the long length. It also is ideal for hiding a food baby! I'm a bit on the fence with the jeans I'm wearing here. You know I love my Old Navy rockstar skinny jeans. I went into the store last week to buy a new pair of their elevated leggings for the gym, and these were hanging on a rack by themselves. They are the short length that I normally buy, but they are a size up from what I go for and they stretch out a ton. They were only 12 dollars and I've worn them twice already, but I think I'm going to designate them as my "lazy Sunday" jeans. They just don't look or feel fitted enough for my taste, but they are super comfortable and again, great for a casual weekend when we are just running errands and hanging out at home.

Do you have certain jeans that you only wear on the weekend? What are some of your favorite brands? I really want to try Madewell.

Linking up with my friends Gina & Amy Ann

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