mr. kate

I am absolutely in love with all of Mr. Kate's jewelry, and her new Rosé collection does not disappoint.  I think I might have just found the ear cuff of my dreams - rose gold AND wooden texture? Ugh, and that rosary... And the starburst earrings.  I'm a little obsessed.

xx

A

the goods - target for missoni

 Thanks to my loving boyfriend, I managed to get a ride off the island we're staying on to the closest Target (which wasn't very close at all - I had to do some serious begging) to get my hands on some of the much hyped about Missoni for Target pieces.  Everything was pretty much picked over by the time we got there - there were absolutely no small sizes to be found, but I did end up with some cute things none the less.  I'm especially excited about the silk head scarf that I'll be rockin' on the beach today, the big, cozy men's sweater that I'll be living in all winter, and some new flatware for the kitchen.  I hope everyone got the pieces they were looking for.. All the madness was definitely worth it.

xx

A

novella royale

Officially obsessed with the Ziggy clutch by Novella  Royale.  So perfect for the upcoming season with some 70's inspired duds.  I can see it looking really great with a pair of Dany platforms, a flowy maxi skirt, an oversized sweater, and a felt panama hat.

xx

A

trouvé 'culton' bootie

I've had my eye on these Trouvé 'Culton' Booties for a few months now, and they finally went on sale at Nordstrom.  The unique heel and sexy lace-up front immediately struck me, but I was sold when I slipped them on and noticed how incredibly comfortable they were.  I think they'd be the perfect shoe for Fall, as they look great with leggings, skinny jeans, and even a fitted skirt or mini shorts paired with a chunky sweater.  Above, I styled them with examples of my go-to fall/winter outfits - lots of slouchy, cozy tops, scarfs, and fitted bottoms.  I think they'll fit in my shoe collection quite nicely. 

outfit 1:

OrYany Leather Flap Satchel

All Saints Elnaz Scarf

Elizabeth and James Dottie Crochet Pullover

T by Alexander Wang Stretch-Jersey Leggings

outfit 2:

Low Luv X Erin Wasson Black Crystal Station

Rustic Breton Tee

PAIGE PREMIUM DENIM Skinny jean 

xx

A

first look: missoni for target

I know I'm a bit late on these, but I just had to share the eye candy.  This little tease has me so excited to see the line in person.  I know I'll be at Target first thing September 13th to get my hands on the goods.

xx

A

"cycle tracks will abound in utopia"

"Think of bicycles as rideable art that can just about save the world." - Grant Petersen

Now that Dan and I are officially residents of Sanford, a tiny yet free-spirited town, having a bicycle is essential for day-to-day life.  We live in the Historic District and are less than a mile from downtown and the beautiful Lake Monroe, which makes our area incredibly bike-friendly.  It's so much fun to ride down to the cozy cafés, farmers markets, book stores, and numerous art galleries that dot the area.  Everyday I look forward to hopping on my cruiser and discovering what new adventure awaits us in our little town.  

Below, you'll see what has more or less been my unofficial uniform since the move.  

1. Michael Kors Rose Gold-Plated Stainless Steel Chronograph Watch

2. T BY ALEXANDER WANG Racerback Tank Top

3. Mint by Goorin Shallow Crown Fedora

4. Marc Jacobs Lock: "Don't Fuck With My Shit"

5. True Religion Shorts Joey Cut-Off Denim Shorts

6. From Tricycle to Bicycle Necklace

7. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Low

8. Fat Tire Ale

(side note: I wish more than anything that Marc by Marc Jacobs key chain was mine (it's sold out - ugh), and the Fat Tire beer is just so delicious that I had to feature it.. You've got to try it out)

xx
A

quote by H.G. Wells.

show some skin

These scandalous shirts that are the ultimate ode to the nineties are back - and in a big way.  They make a huge statement, and are the perfect trend to try this summer.  Styling these babies might seem a little daunting, as you don't want to look like a lady of the night, but if you keep a few key tips in mind you'll achieve that young, fresh, fun look we're all going for this time of year.  

If you want to start out slow with the trend, opt for a top that just shows a tiny bit of tummy and features longer, draped sleeves.  Pair them with a pair of low-rise cut offs, or try a some high-waisted shorts (I'm in love with these as well - especially with the Allsaints or Otis & Maclain top) or a body-con skirt for a bit more coverage.  Just make sure whatever you choose is tailored, as most crop tops tend to have a boxy cut.  If you're more daring and want to go for the teenier crop tops that only cover your chest, then play it up with a high-waisted skirt.  You can also pair it with a chic kimono style sweater to achieve more of a bohemian vibe.  However you work it, it's a fun trend that looks great with a set of tanned legs.  

1. BIRD BY JUICY COUTURE Beige Melange Close-Cropped Knitted Top

2. Gingham Pleated Crop Top

3. Allsaints Neve Top

4. Coshubble Crop Top Side Tie Youreyeslie

5. Otis & Maclain Mae Crop Top

6. POCAHONTAS CROP TOP at Wildfox Couture

7. River Island Blue Stripe Crop Boxy Sweater Top 

8. Forever 21 Lace Insert Slub Top

9. Rare Fashion: Paprika Ditsy Floral Print Crop Top

xx

A

free people + vegan leather

When I received the email introducing Free People's new line of eco-friendly Vegan Leather, I was so excited I practically jumped out of my chair.  While I do own a few real leather pieces, I always feel so much better about my outfit when I know no animal was harmed in order for me to make a fashion statement.  The vegan leather is soft and supple - just like real leather, and is cheaper as well!  This will go down as a definite win-win in my book.  Here's to looking like a badass while being kind to mother nature.

xx

A

p.s. Here's a little video explaining more about the line.  

Side Note: I am so so so so sorry for the hiatus from the blog.  Moving and job hunting is still owning my life, but hopefully things will be back to normal soon.

::destination unknown::

Summer is officially here, and, for most, that means traveling and chasing the surf and sun.  If you're one of the lucky ones who will be jetting off to some exotic, tropical hideaway this year, then unique prints and textures are perfect to have in your suitcase; especially when you can take a few items and mix and match them to create several different outfits.  Also, don't forget to lather on the sunscreen, apply a natural-looking faux tan, and pick a fun color for your toes! Here are some of my picks:

ALLSAINTS Bleach Breton Uma Dress

Juicy Couture Green & Crown Thread Duo Necklace

Philosophy 'Shelter' SPF 30 Sunblock

Michael Stars Origami Fedora

OPI Mexico Collection, OPI My Chihauhua Bites!

Ray-Ban Classic Aviators

Ecote Baja Backpack

Vix Eriko Bandeau Bikini

Mossimo Palila Beaded Flat Sandals

Low Luv By Erin Wasson Metal Triple Crystal

Women's Clarins Self Tanning Instant Gel

Roxy Sand And Sea Beach Towel

xx

A

Wayúu Tayá Foundation

As you've probably noticed, the tribal look is pretty big right now.  The bright colors and geometric designs give off a really cool vibe that's perfect for days at the beach, music festivals, or traveling.  However, instead of purchasing a "tribal-inspired" bag from some big name brand, take a look at the beautiful Mochila bags handmade by the women of the indigenous Wayuú Tribe.  All profits go back to the Tribe through the The Wayúu Tayá Foundation.  They are truly stunning bags, but it makes it so much sweeter to know you'll be supporting a beautiful people who need our help.  

Here's a bit more about the foundation:

"We are a 501(c)3 non governmental, nonprofit organization founded in 2002 to help improve the lives of Latin-American indigenous communities while maintaining and respecting their traditions, culture and beliefs.  Wayúu Tayá Foundation was founded by Wayúu model and actress, Patricia Velásquez.  Since its creation, Wayúu Tayá has concentrated its efforts in assisting the Wayúu, an indigenous group of over 450,000 people, located in the Guajira Peninsula of northern Colombia and northwest Venezuela."

p.s. Sorry for the hiatus!  I was road trippin' all around the South East with my boyfriend and two other friends to see Phish.  It was amazingly fun, and such a cool experience.  Can't wait to do it again!

xx

A

photos via google image search.

day trippin: mazzaro's italian market

They boast quite the collection of small Italian automobiles.. I took a liking to this psychedelic Fiat.

 He had about enough of the pictures, and was dying to get his hands on some Italian goodies.

Sausage

Lots o' cheese.

Italian pastries galore.

I went for the pistachio gelato, and Dan chose a massive Éclair Mmmm.

[vintage dress and belt, Boutique 9 sandals, Ray-Ban Sunglasses]

If you live in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, you must take a day and wander around Mazzaro Italian Market.  It's full of all sorts of delicious meats, cheeses, herbs, olives, and other Italian delicacies to take home.  Also, if you want to eat in (which I highly recommend), there's a little counter where you can order all sorts of pastas, salads, and sandwiches.  I love the tomato, basil and mozzarella tower, and Dan swears by their signature balsamic and caramelized onion burger.  My favorite part of Mazzaros, however, is the wine tasting room (they have a HUGE selection), and, of course, their pastry case.  They have gelato in all the classic flavors like chocolate and tiramasu, but also have seasonal choices.  Their pistachio flavor was to die for.  And if you still have some time to kill, there's also loads of vintage shopping, thrifting, used bookstores and art galleries all around if you want to check those out after lunch - it certainly makes for a lovely day.  Ciao bella!

xx

A

les gazelles

About a year or so ago, my lovely mamacita gave me the book Gypset Style by Julia Chaplin.  It contains so many gorgeous photos of famous gypsetters (a hybrid of gypsy and jet-set) and exotic locations.  

The part that stood out the most to me, however, was the story of the Mignot sisters.  Originally from France, they packed up their family and became nomads - living everywhere from Bora Bora to Ils Saint-Louis before settling in Sayulita, Mexico.  There, they live a beautiful life surfing, sailing around in their old, wooden boat, and running their boutique, Les Gazelles, where they sell - amongst other things - their trademark black pearl jewelry.

  Their motto is "Le vie est belle" (life is beautiful), and by the looks of these photos, they embody that saying perfectly.  We should all take note from the Mignot family, and strive to be a little more free-spirited and carefree.

xx

A

photos via les gazelles, gypset, oracle fox.