Red, White and Denim

In high school, we had to wear uniforms. Not the cute, Catholic-school kind, mind you. Skirts were below the knees, khakis had to be purchased from Dockers, and  the polo shirts only unbuttoned around the neck area. Struggle City was my style. 

But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve grown to like uniforms. Not the kind from boarding school…but the kind that makes getting dressed easier in the mornings. The kind that starts to define you as a blogger. 

I’m not wearing one here - but I’ve learned that scarves are one of mine. I wear them with just about everything (more on how I saved a life with my scarf next week) I didn’t realize they were such a big part of my wardrobe until people started telling me they’d bought a scarf and wanted tips on how to style it. Apparently, Julien loves scarves. (Yes, yes I do.)

This summer, I’ve gravitated towards a simple, yet classic uniform. Jeans and a tee. I’m not saying this is some big revelation - it’s a timeless look that’s been around since, well, forever it seems. Bit nevertheless, it’s become my summer go-to.

Today, I styled my favorite pair of Paige frayed-hem denim with a plain white tank…but instead of my usual sneakers and half bun, I threw on a pair of edgy heels and a red bag. And I don’t usually gravitate towards a lot of color, I like to bend my own rules every now and then. ;)

Also how fun are these photos? They were taken by two of my good friends, Erin and Luke! Erin will actually be photographing Blogger Scene tonight, so if you haven’t bought your ticket, there’s still time! Tickets are $15, but to be honest, if there was an event that cost a million dollars that Erin would be at, I’d totally go. Like, if I had that kind of money. Because she’s worth it. 

Oh, and I’m helping host it with two of my best blogging babes Alicia and Natalie. 

Get your tickets here, friends.

Wearing Paige denim via Fitcode c/o, JOA tank (sold out, more JOA here!), Schutz sandals (similar on sale), Angela Roi handbag, Kenneth Cole Reaction leather jacket (similar), Sophie Blake bracelet

Find the Light

There’s something truly magical about finding the right light. Sometimes in the morning, I’ll legit stop on my way to work and admire the way shadows are cast or the way the sun looks peeking out from behind a building. Those moments inspire me.

I think the same can be said about style. Sometimes we find our light, something that brings us happiness, in the most unexpected places. For me, a huge light in my life is supporting small businesses. Are things more expensive? Usually. But are they pieces I find myself reaching for over and over again? Most definitely.

I’m proud to share today’s post because each item is from a small businesses. The skirt is made by a local designer, Erika Schrieber. I bought this dress for my birthday and snagged up this skirt (that I’ve been eyeing FOREVER) of hers when it went on sale on Stylecable. The zipper detail is so insanely cute and adds a bit of edginess to the whole look. 

The top is by Ksenia Schnaider, one of the coolest designers I’ve found. It’s from a new-to-me site, ODIVO, that carries a ton of outrageously gorgeous (and somewhat underground) brands. I’m dying over this dress! 

My necklace is from one of my favorite jewelry designers, Sophie Blake. Not only is she one of the sweetest, most talented women I’ve ever met, but her pieces are all insanely cool. She’s one of the only designers where I love each and every single piece in her collection. My hubby got this necklace for my birthday (my exact instructions were: Go to Sophie Blake, tell her you’re my husband and she’ll tell you everything I love.) That’s how wonderful she is. She's celebrating her one year anniversary in her pop-up at Mosaic District this Saturday so be sure to stop in and check it out (you KNOW I will!)

Last but certainly not least, these super fun Veja trainers from Anthom. I was devastated when Anthom left the DC area for the big apple, but thanks to their inspiring Instagram account, I spotted these beauties and called their store immediately. My size was in stock and they sent them out right away. I’ve been on the hunt for a pair of white trainers and the marble detail on these adds such a cool touch to the closet staple.

Now I want to know - what inspires you? What brings you joy? Share in the comments below! XO!

Silk screen Ksenia Schnaider tee via ODIVO c/o, Erika Schrieber skirt via Stylecable, Sophie Blake necklace, Veja Sneakers via Anthom, Retrosuperfuture 'Lucia Francis Puma' sunglasses, Halogen leather jacket. Hanuel bracelet c/o, Claire Ashley X Makeup Meltdown lipstick in "Siren" c/o

Leather and Lace

In another life, I would have lived in LA. I would have frequented beaches on the reg and hosted intimate dinner parties in my small home in the hills. You know that one place in the world where you feel like your soul belongs? Mine is in California. Don’t get my wrong, Virginia will always and forever be my home, my soul mate, my first love. But California will always be the one that got away. 

We spent many summers visiting my family out near LA. Walks on the Santa Monica pier, taking selfies with my sister before we even knew what selfies were. Shopping on Rodeo Drive, slipping into a Cartier shop and trying on watches I’d never afford and staying in the bathroom a moment longer to admire the fancy soaps. Road trips to Yosemite that were filled with dips into natural springs and lazily floating down the river in a cheap pair of sunglasses.

This outfit reminds me of what I’d wear in that other life. I’d run errands in this top before a busy evening of entertaining ahead. For the dinner, I’d switch it out for a flowy maxi skirt (maybe like this one.) I’d serve a simple meal in pretty dishes with succulents and hanging lights. When I saw this backyard makeover of Dianne Argon’s house, it felt like home to me. 

No matter what I wear, I feel like Free People takes me back to the beautiful feeling of living that California dream. I might never have a home in LA, but thank goodness I have Free People to help me pretend. 

On Julien: Lace top, bag and bralette, Free People Bethesda c/o. Jacket, Halogen. Jeans, Lucky Brand. Boots, Impo Ochoa via DSW. All jewelry, Hanuel. 

Grey Dress + A Giveaway from Crazy & Co

For me, this has been the year of jewelry. I’ve let go of my prior dream of looking like someone out of a Tiffany’s catalogue and totally embraced this year’s jewelry trends… I fell in love with all-things-gold, learned to layer, tried midi rings, became obsessed with oversized pearls and developed a deep love for unique pieces.

My latest jewelry love includes this gorgeous necklace from Crazy & Co (owned by one of my fave local bloggers, Tanvi!) When I saw it, I immediately thought of all my favorite dessert-inspired pieces it would pair so perfectly with. I really love it with this chunky boyfriend cardi from Free People, but couldn’t help but throw it on when I did a little shopping in my mom’s closet last week. Coolest. Mom. Ever.

Since the holidays are upon us once again, Crazy & Co has offered to give away $50 towards their jewelry collection! Because gifting yourself something awesome this holiday season is totally a thing. Browse their website and let me know your fave piece in the comments and enter using Rafflecopter below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

On Julien: Dress, Max Studio, borrowed. Jacket, Halogen. Boots, Impo Ochoa via DSW. Necklace, Crazy & Co c/o. Earrings and bracelet, Hanuel c/o. Sunnies, Kate Spade (similar.)