Casual

July 8, 2019

MY FOURTH OF JULY OUTFIT THIS YEAR

WHITE EMBROIDERED DRESS (wearing a small)

LIGHT WASH LEVI’S DENIM JACKET (wearing a small)

STRIPED SAM EDELMAN SANDALS (run tts)

(all pieces via Walmart!)

I hope everyone had a wonderful Fourth of July weekend! Is it just me or was having the 4th on a Thursday the best ever?! It felt like a nice looong weekend and I absolutely loved it. On the Fourth we went to a breakfast with our church, a parade one town over that is small, cute, and perfect, and we swam and bbq’d with friends and family that afternoon. By the time 8pm rolled around I was completely exhausted, so we decided to skip fireworks this year. We’ve never missed fireworks, but my older boys said they didn’t mind. The problem was…Eli did. I was tucking him in bed and he kept asking me to see fireworks “so high up in the sky” and I felt awful! So I promised him we would go to a Dodger game in the next few weeks and watch the fireworks show after the game…that boy owns me!

On stories a few days ago I told you how excited I was about my Fourth of July outfit I ordered from Walmart, and here it is! You guys, I can’t get over it. I got my dress, denim jacket, striped sandals, tote and aviators from Walmart.com. They completely blew me away with all of the new clothing brands they offer (Sam Edelman, Ray-Ban, Lord & Taylor, + more) Not only did they have a great clothing selection, but I got free 2 day shipping with my order (any orders over $35 get free 2 day shipping + free returns).

Have any of you shopped at Walmart.com recently for clothing? I linked to my whole outfit below along with a few other cute pieces I found!

SHOP MY LOOK AND OTHER FAVORITE FINDS AT WALMART.COM

thank you to Walmart.com for sponsoring this post

Leave A Comment

Casual

July 25, 2018

COLOR CRUSH: KELLY GREEN

STRIPED SHIRTDRESS (wearing a size small) || SIMILAR STRAW BAG || SIMILAR HEELS

When I buy clothes I tend to gravitate to one color more during a season. Do any of you guys tend to do that? In the spring I added a handful of light blue dresses and a few tops to my closet, and this summer I have been all about this pretty kelly green color!

RUFFLE SLEEVED BLOUSE (wearing a small)

KELLY GREEN RUFFLED TOP

I’ve always been more of a green girl than a blue girl, so I was naturally drawn to this pretty ruffle sleeved top from Modcloth. I have had the idea for this kind of a top in my head for a while, but I haven’t been able to find a top that was the right cut or fit until this one came along! The statement ruffle sleeves keep it elevated, and the fabric is light weight, not see-through, and it doesn’t wrinkle easily! If they had this top in more colors I would definitely have bought more!. (keeping my fingers crossed they add it in a few more colorways. If they do I’ll keep you posted!). I’m wearing a small for reference. It’s long enough to wear untucked, but I love the look of it tucked into high waisted jeans, and it would look amazing with a pencil skirt like this one. And here is another pretty kelly green top I have my eye on.

KELLY STRIPED SHIRT DRESS

I was drawn to this kelly green striped floral shirt dress immediately. Like so many of my great finds at Modcloth, it was unique! I feel like there are so many times I see the same clothes on everyone. Perusing through Modcloth’s website is like a breath of fresh air because with a little digging, I can find some killer pieces that nobody else has. (…until you all see this dress..then we can all wear it together!) And how cute would this dress be paired with these green glasses??

I was a little deterred because I was afraid it would be sheer, but thankfully it wasn’t! I wore a knee-length slip with it to church (only because I am extra cautious), but I didn’t need to wear a white cami under it. And when we shot these pictures I totally forgot to wear a slip and it was just fine! I’m wearing a small in this skirt and I hope it stays stocked! Its a great length and shape, the side slits don’t come up too high. It comes with a belt in the same fabric but I switched it out for a statement belt to accentuate the waist and paired it with pretty tweed heels, but I just found these green pumps in a similar shape that would be great with this dress.

WHY I’M LOVING KELLY GREEN

I think kelly green is a color that will easily carry over into fall…and fall in southern California feels a lot like summer. So I’m looking forward to getting more wear out of these pretty Modcloth finds!

in partnership with Modcloth

Leave A Comment

Casual

June 8, 2017

2017 SWIMSUIT COVER-UP TRENDS

SWIM COVER-UP (wearing a small, runs TTS) || SWIMSUIT || TURQUOISE BRACELET || SUNGLASSES || GOLD CHOKER || SIMILAR CRESCENT NECKLACE || SANDALS || SIMILAR TOTE BAG

You know what is much more fun for me to buy than swimsuits? The cover-ups for those swimsuits. No pinching or tucking or sucking in. Just a really cute piece that is easy to wear and keeps any insecurities nice and covered up while you play with your kids on the beach, or chat with friends by the pool.

I had no intention of buying a cover-up when I was out shopping, but I saw this one, and I couldn’t pass it up. I’ve mentioned before that I’m not the biggest fan of wearing red; I have very few red pieces in my closet. But this color I am always on board with. It’s the most beautiful poppy color, a great mix of red with a hit of orange.This color looks amazing on so many skin tones, and for the detail and quality of the cover-up, I think its a pretty good price too!

I got the chance to meet with the buyers from the Zappos team in downtown LA yesterday, and I got a very up close (and top secret) look at some of the trends that are going to be hot for Winter 2017 and Spring 2018. It was one of those ‘pinch me’ moments! I had to get special permission to post footage from some of the pulls (and they had to preview anything before I could post it). So there are lots of things I wish I could have shared, but I did see a ton of pieces with the cold shoulder trend that is so hot right now. It continued through the holidays and clear into next spring, so my prediction is that this cold shoulder swim cover-up will still be right on trend for next summer as well. That alone is enough of a selling point for me!

I rounded up my favorite swimsuit cover-ups available online, and I was so impressed at all the good options. The color of this orchid dress is to die for! I’m always a sucker for trims, and the pink detail and yellow pom pom trim on this one is so cute. I have this dress in black, and it is amazing! It’s Ultra soft and lightweight with pockets! This is another cute option with good trim in a fun fuchsia color, and this dress is absolutly gorgeous with the crochet work in a lightweight denim color (it also comes in white). I wore this cold shoulder cover-up in this post and it’s on sale now for 40% off!

SHOP ALL OF MY TOP PICKS BELOW:

photography by Jordan Zobrist

Leave A Comment

Fashion

September 17, 2016

INSTAGRAM ROUNDUP – NYFW EDITION

roundup-9-17-16-1 LIGHT BLUE DRESS | SUNGLASSES | INITIAL NECKLACE

This is the comfiest blue dress, and it’s currently 40% off! This will be an easy dress to transition into fall. It’s the perfect length (with pockets and sleeves!) and can easily be worn under a long sweater with a scarf for colder temps. It also comes in a really pretty red, which is the perfect color to brighten up your holiday parties.

These black flats by Tieks saved my feet in New York! We were on our feet most of the day, and in between all the heels it was such a treat to be in comfortable flats. With the heat in New York it was nice to have a light and versatile white top like this one. It can be worn long, but I liked it tied up for a more casual and polished look. It’s sold out in the white, but there are a couple other colors available still. And it’s currently on sale under $30! My sunglasses are also a steal at just $60, and they look just like many of the more expensive pairs out there.

roundup-9-17-16-4 WHITE LASER CUT DRESS | FRINGE HEELS | KATE SPADE BAG | SUNGLASSES

This dress was so fun to wear. It’s such a feminine look with a really nice flare to it. I loved how it worked with my fringe heels. They added the perfect amount of detail without being too overwhelming or taking away from the detail in the dress.

roundup-9-17-16-3 YELLOW DRESS (MADE BY ME, SIMILAR HERE) | SIMILAR HEELS HERE AND HERE | TORY BURCH BAG | GOLD WATCH | INITIAL NECKLACE

I worked so hard to get this dress finished in time for Fashion Week, and I am so glad I did! I love how it turned out. One of the best parts of making my own clothing is knowing there isn’t anyone else wearing my exact look. It’s unique and one of a kind, even when it’s inspired by a similar pice. This dress was my inspiration for the one I made. It has some amazing details in it!

roundup-9-17-16-5 SIMILAR DRESS | SIMILAR BLACK BAG | SIMILAR BLACK HEELS | SUNGLASSES | BANGLE BRACELETS

I love this dress, with all of it’s amazing details. It was the perfect look for my last night in New York. I linked to this one that is really similar, only it has three quarter length sleeves. Because the dress is so detailed, I kept the rest of my look pretty simple. These black heels and black bag are great staples for dresses, especially going into fall and winter when more of the neutral and darker color dresses make their appearances.

My favorite go-to top for so many looks, and it’s only $38 for two of them! It comes in lots of different colors too. My cut-out booties are sold out, but this pair is really similar. These leggings are so comfortable and a nice alternative to pants for certain looks. This pair has some distressing, so they are more like pants, but have the same comfort as a legging.

Oh you guys. Fashion Week was an absolute blast! It was so good to be back in New York. I wanted to round up all of the looks I posted while I was there so that you could find everything I was wearing in one place. I hope you guys enjoyed some of the behind the scenes snaps and stories I shared while I was there! It was so much fun to go to all the shows and meet so many wonderful people who I admire so much. I loved every part of it (besides my crazy hotel experience I shared here). But I’m glad to be back home and relaxing with my boys this weekend. I hope everyone has a great weekend! Enjoy the last of our summer weather while you can!

Leave A Comment

Fashion

September 3, 2016

INSTAGRAM ROUNDUP + LABOR DAY WEEKEND SALES

This white top is one of my favorites. It layers so well (especially with a fitted blazer to make your look more tailored), and it’s the perfect length. It’s also marked down 40% right now, so it’s under $30! Sizes are really limited, but if they have your size I would definitely recommend it as a staple for fall! There are unlimited ways to wear a white button up. These jeans are under $70 and really comfortable. The distressing is more subtle on them too.

I love long vests. They are so versatile and will definitely transition into fall perfectly. I linked to two similar long vests. This long light grey vest is on sale for $40, and this one comes in either a darker grey or black and is under $35! Both are great options for lots of cute fall looks. It’s so easy to add some contrast and layer long sweater vests over dresses for fall. This black dress is really similar to mine, just with a little bit shorter sleeves (which is great for throwing under a long sweater for fall), and it’s on sale right now for under $20!

This pink blazer is supposed to be oversized, but I love that it doesn’t lose it’s feminine touch even with the slouchiness. I like it with this white peplum top because it’s a little more tailored than the blazer, and I think it adds some definition to the look. This peplum top is similar, but it’s sleeveless and has some ruffles that dress it up a bit more. It also comes in a red that would be really pretty for the fall.

This striped top is such a flattering fit and cut, and it’s the perfect length too. Unfortunately it’s sold out in the black and white stripes, but the last time I checked they still had it in solid black and solid white with limited sizes. And it’s less than $15 now! It does run big, but the fit is supposed to be looser. I’m wearing a medium and you can see that the fit is baggier, which I wanted. My wedges are now under $50 (40% off!). I have worn them all summer, for both casual looks like this and more dressed up looks, and they are definitely one of my favorite pairs.

Happy September everyone! I am still having trouble with the idea that summer is coming to an end, but we have a lot to look forward to with fall and some warmer weather clothes coming up! Labor Day is Monday, so this weekend there are some major sales happening. I wanted to give you a list of all the big ones that I will be checking out. I included links to all the sales, as well as what kinds of deals they are offering and what codes you will need to get the discounts below. You can go straight from here to each store’s sale by clicking on the store names. I also included some of my favorite sale picks from some of the stores below. I hope everyone has a fun weekend! Let me know what kinds of crazy good deals you guys find out there!

THE BEST LABOR DAY SALES:

My favorite hair curling wands are on sale for 70% off + free US/Canada shipping! I use the 25mm Classic Wand. You can shop it with this link and use code CURLS70 at checkout. I posted a hair tutorial on how I create loose curls with it that you can watch here.
Nordstrom: They have amazing items on sale in their Summer Clearance sale. I posted about all my favorite picks in yesterdays post, and rounded some up below as well.
- SALE FAVORITE: This top I love and own in 3 colors and it’s on sale for less than $30! It runs big, comes in 5 colors, and I wear an XS. It’s such a great dressy top for when you need something a step bout a basic tee. You can see how I styled it in posts here, here, here, and here. (told you I loved it)
J.Crew: 30% off your order of $200+ or 25% off your order of $125+. Use code SHOPMORE. Online only. Exclusions apply.
Madewell: Extra 30% right now picks and all sale styles in-store and online. Use code: DOUBLEUP.
Free People: Additional 30% off on all sale styles through Monday, 9/5.
Urban Outfitters: Buy one, get one half off on tanks and tees. In stores and online through 9/5.
Anthropologie: Additional 40% off sale items.
H&M: 60% off select styles.
Forever 21: Buy one, get one free on all sale items with code BOGOFREE. Exclusions apply.
Shopbop: Hundreds of new styles newly added to the sale.
Old Navy: 50% off all jeans, dresses, and tees.
Gap: 40% off your purchase. Use code: PARTY. Exclusions apply.
Banana Republic: 40% off almost everything with code: FALL40. Exclusions apply.
BaubleBar: Up to 75% off select styles, with an additional 20% off all sales automatically applied at checkout.
Rebecca Minkoff: Up to 50% off.
- SALE FAVORITE- My blush pink mini crossbody bas is on sale for under $100! You can see how I styled it in this post.
Joe’s Jeans: 25% off end-of-season Summer styles plus an extra 30% off all sale items through 9/6.

Nordstrom Clearance Sale Favorites:

Leave A Comment

Fashion

August 27, 2016

INSTAGRAM ROUNDUP

This skirt is simple and bold. It goes perfectly with a solid black top and some black and white heels. I linked to a similar one that is under $35! Black and white is always a classy way to dress up for date nights, and there is a lot of potential for adding pops of color to this look with a cute bag or some fun heels.

This is the ultimate comfy look, and I love it. It’s so fun to dress up, especially for shoots where I’m trying new looks, but I love to be casual too. Momiforms all the way. These are some of the softest, most comfortable jeans I own. And I love adding my New Balances with them. For me, running errands and keeping up with my boys is something that never ends. These shoes are perfect for those long days out. My cargo jacket is still sold out, but I linked to two similar ones (this one is under $70!). It’ll be a fall staple of mine for sure.

Roundup 8.27.16 - 3 STRIPED TOP | JEANS | LADDER CUFF | SCREW CUFF

Have you seen enough of my black and white looks yet? I love this striped top so much. It’s girly, with a simple and elegant combination. It works really well casually, with some distressed jeans. But you could definitely dress it up with a pencil skirt too. Add some color with a cute bag or shoes and you’ve got the perfect day to night look.

Basics like a pair of distressed jeans and a comfortable white top are always a favorite staple of mine. This look is versatile, classic, and easy to make your own. I love to add some color contrast by adding a couple key pieces that stand out, like my bag and some detailed booties. These booties are so comfortable, and the color goes with everything. I linked to a couple similar pairs that are basically identical in look and style.

Leave A Comment

Fashion

August 13, 2016

INSTAGRAM ROUNDUP

I’m so glad I scooped this dress up while it was on sale. It went so fast! It’s available in limited sizes in the navy now, but I did link to two other dresses that are fully stocked. This one will be perfect for fall, and it comes in so many colors, including emerald green. My Ted Baker bag is back in stock again too. I love this bag for so many reasons, one of them being the classic shape it has. It’s different than a lot of my other bags, and it has a really chic look to it.

Roundup 8.13.16 - 4 BATHING SUIT | SUNGLASSES | BOYS RASH GUARD | BOYS SWIM TRUCKS

This suit is so comfortable, covers well, and has the prettiest colors in it. And guess what… it’s on sale! This is such a quality suit, and one that I will definitely pull out again and again. Even though we’re getting towards the end of summer, I don’t think this heat is going anywhere fast. So if you’re thinking about getting a new suit, I highly recommend this one.

This look is such an easy summer to fall look. These booties are back in stock in limited sizes, so hurry! They have the best cut to them, and they are the perfect color to go with all your fall outfits. This black maxi dress is so comfortable, and it has pockets! This one is almost identical, and it’s under $15 on clearance! I also love this one, which has a slightly higher cut to it (not quite maxi). For a limited time, my Aimee Kestenberg bag is on sale. I love this color for fall, but it also comes in other great colors. I shared all the reasons I love it in this post. But basically, it’s got everything you’ll want in a purse.

Roundup 8.14.16 - 2 TOP | OLIVE MOTO PANTS (SIMILAR HERE) | FLATS (SOLD OUT, SIMILAR HERE) | REBECCA MINKOFF BAG

Tomorrow is the last day to get these olive moto pants on sale from Brickyard Buffalo. They are so comfortable and the perfect alternative to jeans. I love how they look with black, and I know with fall just around the corner they will continue to get lots of use. I linked to a very similar pair, that has more of an athleisure look to them. They come in a few different colors. My flats are sold out, but I linked to a similar pair. I know so many of you were interested in them, so I’m so sad they aren’t available. The pair I linked to would also work with these pants, and will also be great shoes to have this fall. Also, the last time I checked there was only one of these Rebecca Minkoff bags left! It’s currently 30% off, goes with everything, and is big enough to carry anything you would need.

Leave A Comment

Fashion

July 30, 2016

INSTAGRAM ROUNDUP

Happy Saturday! Since the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has been the focus lately, I thought I would play a little catch up with my roundups! I started back where I left off before my Instagram Roundup: Anniversary Sale Edition post last weekend. I added a couple of my recent Instagram posts at the end of this week’s roundup, both of which have Anniversary Sale finds that are still available (but going fast, so hurry and shop them). For more of my favorites from the sale, check out this link where all of my tabs have been updated with in stock sale items! And in case you missed it, I also rounded up a ton of complete fall looks that are on sale.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Roundup 7.16.16 - 1 STRIPED SHIRT DRESS | BLACK BAG | WEDGES | SUNGLASSES | LEATHER WATCH

Tons of you asked about this dress when I posted it on Instagram. I think it caught everyone off guard because it’s technically a maternity dress, but you wouldn’t even know it! The material is basically the only reason it’s maternity. It’s a knit with some stretch to it, so it’s very comfortable. I’m wearing a size small and it comes right to my knees. It’s one of those dresses you can live in all day, every day. It’s great for a casual date night, but you could definitely dress it down for a day of running errands. This bag works well with the black and white stripes because it’s bold, plus it holds a ton of stuff for days when toting your diaper bag around just doesn’t cut it!

There’s something so perfect about gingham and pops of color. The combo immediately catches your eye, adds some contrast, and makes your outfit stand apart. I made my skirt myself, but I found a really pretty blue skirt with a big bow on it that’s very similar (and long!). You can add a solid color top to it, or go for a patterned top that works with the color in the skirt. It’s a great Sunday outfit for church, or just something fun to wear to a birthday, shower, or summer get together.

You guys know how much I love this lilac top. It’s the perfect color and length, and it can easily be dressed up or dressed down in some jeans and sandals. But they are also selling this top in chartreuse now (they call it “solar glow”), and it’s amazing. I love that color too, and I think it has a lot of potential for a fun pop of color for a date night look. My bag is sold out, but I linked a black Rebecca Minkoff that is very similar, and the same one in brown that is actually $50 less than the black!

Roundup 7.16.16 - 4 WHITE ROMPER (SIMILAR HERE AND LONG SLEEVE HERE) | BATHING SUIT | SUNGLASSES | SHARK SWIM TRUNKS | BABY WHALE SHIRT

This white romper is the perfect addition to any beach day. It’s light weight, loose fitting, and very versatile. You can wear it as a cover up, or just wear it casually around the beach on those super hot days. I tagged Eli’s outfit for all you moms out there looking for some cute beach wear for your babies. Both the top (it says “CALI”) and swim bottoms are currently on sale!

This tie neck top is one you can easily transition into fall. I love it with white pants, but it would also work with jeans or black distressed pants with some booties for more of a casual look for fall. It’s hard to tell, but it’s actually a white blouse with blue stripes. And it also comes in a black with white stripes.

I love a clean, tailored look. This one is simple, and easy to pull together for a date night. My navy blazer comes in three other colors, and the fit is really classic looking. These heels are one of my favorites. They have a great cut to them, and even though they are on the taller side, they are still really comfortable. They are a great staple and go with so many outfits.

DISTRESSED JEANS | LEATHER JACKET | GREY TOP | SIMILAR BOOTIES HERE, HERE AND HERE | INITIAL NECKLACE

This leather jacket is in stock and such a necessary fall staple. I promise, you’ll love it. It’s not too bulky, really comfortable, and has a great cut to it. My booties are sold out, but I linked to three other pairs that are similar in color and style (all three are still available and on sale!). My grey top is also still available and it’s a must if you need a go-with-everything staple tee. It’s so soft and easy to wear under sweaters or on it’s own.

Roundup 7.30.16 - 5 DISTRESSED JEANS | DRAPE FRONT CARDIGAN | GREY TOP | SIMILAR BOOTIES HERE, HERE AND HERE | INITIAL NECKLACE

This cardigan is so comfortable! And it has the perfect fall look to it. I love the colors in it. If you haven’t started thinking about sweaters for fall (I get it, it’s hard with this heat!) you really should. The Anniversary sale is the perfect chance to grab all the sweaters that will be appearing this fall at a great price. Come fall, this sweater and all the others you’re eyeing, will be much higher in price. I highly recommend finding a sweater staple like this one that you can wear with lots of different looks.

Leave A Comment

Fashion

July 9, 2016

INSTAGRAM ROUNDUP + NORDSTROM ANNIVERSARY SALE DETAILS

*Shop all my picks for the 2016 Nordstrom Anniversary sale in this post

WHITE DRESS | COGNAC WEDGES | STRAW TOTE BAG

Summer is for cute straw beach totes like this one. It’s so fun! I love it. But definitely don’t feel limited to just pulling it out for beach days. Totes like this work well for running errands, or even adding them to your summer date night look. I love how the straw in the bag looks with the cognac in my wedges and my white dress. It’s just so summery.

Summer nights at a baseball game are so magical. This is the easiest comfy outfit for a game, or just running errands on days that you won’t be in the sun too much. Converse are comfortable for long days, and they work well with any casual look. If you wanted to be cute and casual on a warmer day, you could switch out your jeans for a summer dress with your Chucks too. I linked to my gold hanging light because I love it and think it’s adorable. But I also linked to my mannequin dress form for all of you girls interested! It’s a great thing to have when you start sewing, so if you signed up for the Modern Girl Sewing courses and you’ve found a new love for sewing, this may be something worth purchasing.

You can never have too many summer days of white and denim. White on white, as you may know, is a favorite of mine. I love the simplicity and elegance in an all white look that adds just a touch of color. My denim jacket and cognac wedges give your eyes just a little bit of contrast to look at. But the all white look still keeps your focus and draws attention. My eyelet top is sold out, but I linked to a similar one that is currently on sale!

Okay, you guys. These blue heels are one my favorite pairs right now! I love them so much. They are fun and flirty, and have the cutest details. They work with a dressier look, but they are also the perfect addition to a more casual look with distressed jeans and your favorite solid colored top. I’m so bummed that my top is sold out because it is seriously amazing. But I found some other great white tops that have similar features, like elbow sleeves. This one has a twisted (bunching) detail in the front that is so pretty, and it’s only $15. And this one has scallop details on the sleeves and bottom, plus it’s $25!

Happy Saturday! I hope you guys are enjoying these roundups of some of my weekly Instagram outfit posts. Let me know if there are other types of posts that you would be interested in seeing (outside of my usual posts). I’d love to hear what you guys are interested in seeing and reading about on here!

I also wanted to remind everyone that the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale (the biggest and best sale of the year) starts next week! Pre-sale for all cardholders starts on July 14th, which is next Thursday! For everyone else, the sale starts July 22nd and goes through August 7th. Oh my goodness you guys, it’s time to mentally prepare yourselves for what’s to come. This is the sale to save up for so that you can stock up on some key fall pieces to add to your wardrobe. I’m going to have a huge post for the sale next week, but I wanted to get you thinking about what’s to come.

Have a great weekend!

Leave A Comment

Casual

June 24, 2016

20 OUTFIT IDEAS TO HELP YOU DECIDE WHAT TO WEAR ON THE 4TH OF JULY

I’ve rounded up all of my favorite red, white, and blue looks today to give you a little inspiration for planning your 4th of July outfit! So whether you need something to wear to a BBQ at a friends house, the fireworks show on the football field, or a church outfit the Sunday before the 4th of July, I’ve got you covered for any occasion that requires a patriotic color combo! I’ll be posting my current 4th of July looks over on my Instagram as well, so make sure you follow along with me there!

Since some of these looks are older, I’ve linked to the same, or similar, items beneath each photo if you want to know the sources. However, this post is mostly to help you get a little inspiration for your looks! It’s probably a good idea to pin this main image so you can come back to it easily later!

STRIPED DRESS | SIMILAR DENIM VEST | SIMILAR TOTE | SIMILAR SANDALS | SUNGLASSES

I love that this look has some tried and true Fourth of July staples like a jean vest, stripes, and pops of red in this bag. This dress comes in both navy and red or navy and white stripes, and either option would work great for the Fourth.

SIMILAR FLORAL PRINT DRESS, SHIRT AND ROMPER | SIMILAR DISTRESSED JEANS | SIMILAR BLUE BAG | SIMILAR SUNGLASSES

If you like to keep your red, white, and blue a little more casual and subdued, adding some pops of red or blue florals and a matching bag works really well. It’s easy to pull together and doesn’t require overdoing the patriotic look if that’s not your thing. Both my top and bag are older, so I linked to a few other floral options (including a dress and a romper if want to forego the jeans), and a cute blue Kate Spade bag that I love.

I love the look of red with black and white stripes. It’s so classic looking, and it ends up working out really well for the Fourth. If you’re looking for the perfect look for church the weekend before the Fourth, this would be a great option. Any red midi skirt will work, but I love the look of a full high waisted skirt that comes up over your striped top. This skirt is one I made, but I linked to this one that is similar.

This look is casual, comfortable, and patriotic all in one. You can’t go wrong with a chambray top for the Fourth. And these white linen pants are not only ridiculously comfortable, they work well with lots of different top options and do well with bright pops of color.

DRESS (MADE BY ME, SEE TUTORIAL HERE) SIMILAR HERE AND HERE | SIMILAR CLUTCH | SIMILAR SHOES

If you have a dressier Fourth of July event to go to, there is nothing quite like an all red look! Add some simple nude sandals and a statement clutch and you’re set. My floral clutch is sold out, but I linked to one of my favorite red clutches (that also comes in light blue).

Here is another outfit that combines red, white, and blue effortlessly. Again, you can’t go wring with a classic stripe look, especially one that has really bold white and navy stripes. It makes everything else stand out so well, like this red top and gold clutch.

Fourth of July is usually filled with picnics, parks, and running around with the family, so this sporty look works well for those types of things. It’s a little edgy, but still cute and feminine. I easily added some blue to my look with a cute baseball hat and a pop of red with a flannel tied around my waist. Simple, cute, and practical (you’ve got an extra layer when it cools off).

I love finding non-traditional ways to incorporate reds, whites, and blues for the Fourth. Finding patterns, like the one in my dress, that adds these colors is not only stylish but it’s unique. I also love the way these gold flats go with the blues and reds.

GREY PLEATED TOP (SOLD OUT, SIMILAR HERE) | BLUE KNIT PENCIL SKIRT | COGNAC FLATS | BAG | SUNGLASSES

This blue midi skirt stands out so well. I love how good it looks with a simple top tucked in. You can add a basic white top and a pop of red in a clutch if you want to make this look a little more patriotic. But it also works well for the Fourth with this grey top and some brown sandals, making it just a bit more subtle.

To me, this is the all-American look everyone loves for the Fourth. It’s easy to wear your jeans and a basic white tee all day, to BBQ’s, picnics, fireworks shows, and just about anywhere your Fourth of July plans take you. Adding some key pieces of color in a cute baseball hat or some red flats is super easy, but there are lots of other ways you can add color to this look too.

TOP MADE BY ME (TUTORIAL HERE) SIMILAR TOP HERE AND HERE | WHITE SHORTS | SUNGLASSES | PANAMA HAT

Gingham in blue is perfect for the Fourth. It’s stylish and classic, and when paired with white shorts it guarantees a polished look that isn’t over done. If you’re expecting hot weather, this is always an outfit that will keep you cool all day long.

SIMILAR WHITE DRESS HERE AND HERE | SIMILAR GOLD SANDALS HERE AND HERE | SIMILAR NECKLACE | SIMILAR BRACELET | STRAW HAT

White dresses are such a summer staple. They go with so many things, and they are comfortable and lightweight in the heat. This dress is detailed with an eyelet pattern, while this one is a bit more basic. Add some reds and blues in your jewelry, or keep it a little more neutral and add some gold sandals, like this pair of gladiators. Adding a hat is another way to keep cool and also adds a little more depth to your look.

This look is all about function. If you’re planning on being on the go this Fourth of July, plan to be comfortable. You don’t have to sacrifice style to achieve comfort like so many people think. Adding a basic, but cute and colorful, plaid shirt to your favorite jeans is a sure way to feel yourself wherever you end up celebrating the Fourth. You can make your outfit stand out a little more by adding some statement shoes like these metallic flats.

SIMILAR NAVY DRESS HERE AND HERE AND HERE | NAVY HEELS | CREAM BAG | BEE CUFF

I love this dress for so many reasons. It has amazing details, and it’s the perfect shade of blue. Plus, these navy heels match perfectly. Since it sold out, I tried to link to as many similar dresses as I could find. This one sold out in the navy, but it comes in burgundy, which is just as perfect for the Fourth!

To dress up your jeans just enough, add a top with some details (like the eyelet detail in this top) and shoes that add some flare. You’re sure to remain comfortable in this look, but you’ll also add an element of distinctive style that is a couple steps up from your basics look. Add some red lipstick and you’re Fourth of July ready!

DRESS | HEELS | SIMILAR EARRINGS | LADDER CUFF | INITIAL NECKLACE

This is another great outfit for church the weekend before the Fourth of July. Bodycon dresses are bold and classic, and there’s no better time to pull out your blue dresses than the Fourth!

If you’re looking to dress up your Fourth of July look this year, I’m a huge fan of lace tops. They’re delicate, and they look so pretty with just about anything. I love this light blue lace top with white pants. I linked to a similar lace top that would be perfect with jeans and some wedges.

White pants and jean jackets are always a summer favorite of mine. You can add some more red and blue to this look with a different bag or hat, but the black and white stripes aren’t too far fetched for the Fourth, so don’t think you have to change this up too much.

Red tops look so good with jeans for the Fourth. You can be dressy or casual with this look. I like how the booties keep it casual. You can even add your favorite open-toed booties to dress it up a little more. Or throw on some converse for an even more relaxed feel.

Leave A Comment

Dressy

June 16, 2016

OFF THE SHOULDER DRESS TUTORIAL

DRESS MADE BY ME (ALMOST IDENTICAL DRESS HERE AND AN OPTION UNDER $40 HERE AND HERE) | GOLD GLADIATOR SANDALS | STRAW POM POM TOTE BAG | SUNGLASSES

I posted a little sneak peek of this dress when I wore it in Hawaii, and I’m excited today to bring you the full tutorial on how you can make a custom off the shoulder dress for your next beach trip! Before we left on our family vacation to Hawaii last month, I was itching to sew an off the sleeve dress for a beach cover up. There are so many adorable off the shoulder dresses for sale (this one and this one are my favorites), but I had some really pretty lightweight coral fabric in my stash that I wanted to use up. I came across this dress online and I knew I had to recreate it with my coral fabric.

The off the shoulder trend is one of my favorite trends this summer, because I feel like the clavicle and shoulders are such a pretty and classy way to show a little skin. Plus, you don’t have to worry about getting tan lines if you wear it as a cover up to the pool and beach.

To style an off the shoulder dress, I would say skip the necklace, especially if you are wearing it as a swim cover. Throw on a simple pair of stud earrings intead, and pull your hair away from your face a bit. If you throw too much jewelry on it distracts from the silhouette of the dress. When it comes to resort wear, I really think something more simple, understated, and less styled ends up looking a lot more chic and timeless.

GET THE FULL TUTORIAL FOR THIS TOP AFTER THE JUMP BELOW..

If you don’t know how to sew, now is the time to learn! We are running our big summer sale over at moderngirlsewing.com where you can get 25% off of any of our online sewing courses with the code: SUMMER25. The sale ends on Monday! Summer is the best time to sew, and this dress is really great for a beginner. You can find out more about the courses here.

Materials:

3 yards of fabric (I used a light weight polyester/cotton blend)
1 1/2 yards of 1/2″ elastic
matching thread

STEP 1:

Cut out 2 rectangles of fabric that measure about 1 1/2 x your chest width, and 28″ long (you can make it as long or short as you would like). Cut out small arm holes (keep in mind these can be very short holes, since the top will hit you a few inched underneath your armpit).

STEP 2:

Lay your 2 bodice pieces Rt sides together and stitch up either side with 1/2″ seam allowance (sa).

STEP 3:

Open your bodice and serge around the armpit opening, then fold under 1/4″, press, and stitch.

STEP 4:

Cut your 2 strips of fabric 15″ wider than your bodice pieces, place them rs togther, and stitch up the sides with 1/2″ sa.

STEP 5:

Serge around the bottom of your stitched together strips of fabric, fold under 1/4″, pin your trim along the edge and stitch.

STEP 6:

Fold the top of your long strip over 1″ and stitch all around leaving a 2″ opening.

STEP 7:

Slide the bodice through the exact middle of the long strip of fabric and place the seam allowances together. Stitch all around the top of the round strip with a 5/8″ seam allowance, leaving a small opening where the elastic will fit

STEP 8:

Insert one of the ends of the elastic into the top of the bodice through the 3″ opening. Pin the end of the elastic in place so it doesn’t pull all the say through, and stitch the 2 ends together. Hem along the bottom of the bodice with 1/2″ sa.

I found a lot of similar dresses that you can shop here:

Leave A Comment

Family

June 14, 2016

OUR HAWAII TRIP (PART 1)

We got back from our trip to Oahu a few weeks ago, and I’m already getting antsy to start planning our next vacation! I was a little worried that traveling with all of the kids was going to be completely exhausting. Well, it was…but it was WORTH it! I’m recapping the first part of our trip today, and I put together a little video below. The pictures are so fun to have, but it’s the video that really shows what a blast we all had!

The first part of our trip we stayed at The Outrigger Reef Waikiki. It’s a gorgeous family friendly resort right in the heart of Waikiki.

FLORAL BATHING SUIT

because of the time change, we all work up really early Hawaii time, so we would walk down to a pier at the hotel and watch the sunrise. (can you tell it’s 5:30am? haha!)

(my suit is 30% off right now! you can find it here)

The boy loved having their own room at the outrigger. We got 2 rooms that joined and it was so nice to be able to close the boys door once they were all asleep. We all got a good nights rest because of it!

DELSEY LUGGAGE | PINK SUIT (CURRENTLY 30% OFF!) | STRIPED CROCHET BAG

NAVY OFF THE SHOULDER DRESS

ELI’S OUTFIT

The boys weren’t too into snorkeling, but they were obsessed with watching the fish with their goggles. Even in such shallow water they could see lots of fish!

During our stay at The Outrigger Reef we checked out the Waikiki Beach Walk, right next to the hotel. They have great shopping, yummy restaurants, and this cute splash pad for the boys to play in.

I stopped into a cute little boutique called Mahina that had the best stuff! Lots of light airy pieces with a laid back beachy feel. I picked up some white cut off shorts and a cute turquoise ring.

They even had a spot in the store with toys, so the boys were entertained while I shopped!

The boy’s favorite store by far was Candy Bar. They were in heaven because we pretty much let them have all the sugar they wanted. This candy shop has the most amazing cotton candy. We also got a box of chocolate covered macadamia nut balls. OH my gosh! I cannot stress to you enough how amazing these were. I honestly ate 90% of the box myself.

We also stopped in Truffaux, a boutique that carries the best panama hats. All the hats are hand woven and take between 4-6 months to create. It was so interesting to learn about the how these hats are made, and we each walked out with one that we wore pretty much the rest of our trip.

I snuck off to the gym while the boys were all napping. I sweat way more in Hawaii than I usually do during a workout!

I made my coral dress (tutorial coming soon!) but you can shop an identical one here.

We got the boys squirt guns for the pool before we left and they carried them everywhere we went!

We loved every minute at The Outrigger Reef Resort and I would highly recommend the resort, especially if you are traveling with kids. It was super family friendly and we met lots of other families while we were out at the pool. The staff was so friendly and the bellmen were all so cute and nice to the boys (even when they climbed all over their luggage carts like monkeys).

On our last night there we let the boys swim and we ordered dinner poolside from the restaurant they have next to the pool. Garrett and I sat at our table eating while we watched the boys swim and listened to the live Hawaiian music. It was so relaxing!

Leave A Comment

SHOP MY LOOK AND OTHER FAVORITE FINDS AT WALMART.COM

KELLY GREEN RUFFLED TOP

KELLY STRIPED SHIRT DRESS

WHY I’M LOVING KELLY GREEN

ARE YOU ON THE LIST?

Subscribe!