8 Affordable and Cozy Sweaters You Need Right Now!

images by wini lao

Can you believe it’s about to be October! I feel like summer just flashed by and now before you know it we’ll be putting up the Christmas tree and wrapping presents! Even though I wish summer 18 never would have ended, I have to admit Fall has its charm. The stunning colored leaves, crisp air, and of course the fashion. Fall dressing means you can get a little more serious and a little more dressed up, and pull out luxe fabrics and standout knits. I mean does anything really beat the perfect knit sweater??? This one is from one of my favorite Instagram brands – Mum’s Handmade.

One look at their feed full of incredibly stylish women in all eyes on me chunky knits and you will be obsessed. My first one was a pretty pink cardigan that I splurged on after getting a nice bonus last year, and it still looks just as amazing as it did the first day I got it. Then when they had a sale over the summer, I decided to grab one of their knit sweater dresses in classic black. They rarely discount so I jumped at the chance to get one on sale, and it’s finally chilly enough for me to actually wear it! And when it cools off even more I can rock it with tights or jeans to give me legs some coverage.

If this sweater was way too far out of your price range, or you aren’t a fan of dealing with international shipping, check out a few of my other favorite sweaters for the season below!

What are you most excited about for Fall? 

#NYCStories: What Life in NYC Has Taught Me

I started posting a series on Instagram sharing some of my favorite NYC Stories. Growing up in this city has shaped me in ways I’m slowly becoming more and more aware of as I get older and travel more. If you don’t live in NY, living here is like no place else. If you are planning a move or even n a trip, here are some things you need to know to make the most of your experience!

Some people have been saying NYC is dead, and yes, things have changed for sure. But New York will never die, only evolve. The city has survived everything from attacks to a pandemic, and will only continue to thrive.

NYC Life & Travel are Expensive

If you’ve never been here before, the prices wil be shocking! Growing up in the city made me a little more used to seeing extreme prices at every turn. That skill comes in really handy when traveling because I rarely get sticker shock (except for in Switzerland, where the combination of pricing and exchange rate is insane). Save up and prepare yourself and your wallet for outlandish rent, overpriced restaurants, $15 cocktails, and a view that can bring tears to your eyes.

You’ll Make a Lot of Friends But Only Have a Few Friends

Living here means you are constantly surrounded by people. The opportunities to socialize are endless and you’ll be able to meet new people at every turn. However I’ve learned that true friendships and authentic bonds are few and far between. In retrospect I wish I had devoted more time to those relationships, but it seemed we often took for granted that we could see each other any time. Have all the fun you can with all the right people, but make sure you find ways to prioritize the relationships that really count.

Street Food Is Always a Good Idea

From the halal stands to the gyro carts, NY street food is legendary. If you are germophobic or nervous about eating off a truck, start working on that before you land in the Big Apple! Of course the city is known for it’s concentration of incredible high-end restaurants, but considering the need to respect your wallet as discussed above, make sure you explore the low-cost options that can be just as delicious!

The Options Are Endless and the Familiar is Comforting

The city that never sleeps is also the city of endless options. There is so much amazing everything - restaurants, museums, lounges, and the list goes on. Anything your heart desires, you will find and it will be good! Even though we are spoiled for choice, you’ll see that New Yorkers often frequent the same spots! You might think we bounce around to a new place every night, but the fact is we all have our neighborhood bar or go to restaurant that we hit up a few times a week. If you visit NYC or make it your home, find the balance between visiting your faves on a regular basis and exploring something new when you can.

If you are planning to move or visit NYC, let me know your questions in the comments!

16 Pairs of the Best Affordable Jeans You Need to Buy Now

Can you believe that Fall is basically here! Summer flew by, and I for one can’t wait for 2020 to be over. I’ve finally been feeling motivated to breathe some new life into my wardrobe and spice up my work from home outfits. I usually just throw on a cute top or sundress, but the change of seasons is making me want to look more polished.

I’ve been spicing up my look by playing with some fashion denim and new denim styles. When was the last time you put on a pair of jeans? It’s definitely been a few months for me! But I miss the way the perfect pair of jeans can flatter your figure, make those curves pop, and elevate your look. I’m sharing my roundup of every pair of jeans you need this fall – from the season’s most comfortable denim to the top jeans trends for 2020. Keep reading for every pair of new denim styles you need to rock this Fall, all under $100!   

The Best Classic Denim to Wear for Fall

Every woman needs a pair of classic washed jeans in a flattering fit. They are perfect as a work from home outfit and can be dressed up and down for a night out. I’ve been really into cropped wide leg and bootcut fits, and they are one of the top jeans trends for 2020. Bonus points if you find a soft stretchy pair that are comfortable enough for lazy days at home. Play up the classic look by keeping them clean and tailored and avoiding distressed details.

The Best Skinny Jeans to Wear for Fall

I know some people hate skinny jeans, but I consider them a wardrobe essential! They are an easy, comfortable pair of jeans to wear for pretty much any occasion! Wondering how to wear skinny jeans? Just style them the same way you’ve been wearing your leggings or sweat pants. They go with sweats and sneakers, and when paired with a cute blouse or knit, they become the perfect work from home look. Play with light distressing or variation in color for a look that is right on point for the top jeans trends for 2020.

The Trendiest Denim You Need for Fall

If you are looking for a way to really spice up your look for Fall, definitely play with some trendy denim. Some of the top jeans trends of 2020 include asymmetric waistbands, hemline details, and oversized fits. Don’t spend too much money chasing trends or on fashion jeans– all of these styles are under $100! Fashion jeans are a great way to mix things up for going out or as a work from home outfit, and there are plenty of affordable options.

The Best Printed Denim to Wear This Fall

Printed denim is always a good idea. It’s a fun way to spice up a classic look and fashion denim is a new wardrobe essential. I love the timeless sex appeal of leopard printed denim, or the soft feminine vibe of floral printed jeans. Prints are definitely one of the top jeans trends of 2020, so get the look at a budget friendly price! Play with some new denim styles and prints to have fun with your look this Fall!

Denim Apparel to Finish Your Look

Don’t forget your accessories! One of the top jeans trends of 2020 is denim everywhere. I love new ways to wear denim – from this structured blazer to these sexy booties. Shake off the quarantine funk by slipping into some fun fashion denim.

What else are you adding to your shopping list for Fall?

Top 4 Summer Dresses You Need to Look Hot Now!

You guys know I have an obsession with dresses. They are the fastest and easiest way to pull a look together, no matter what season you’re in. Even though I rock dresses year round, summer is the best time to wear them! You can throw one on and add some fun accessories then go - no need to worry about tights or adding too many layers. I partnered with Lit Boutique to show you every dress you need this summer and how to style each one.

If you aren’t familiar with Lit Boutique, check them out immediately! Lit Boutique provides an eclectic mix of fashion-forward designs; from avant-garde sculptural pieces to whimsical, playful tops and dresses, they’ve got it all. They specialize in dresses that flawlessly fit into your lifestyle and take you from day to night, and are the perfect one stop shop for your summer #ootds.

Keep reading to see some of my favorite items from Lit Boutique!

4 Summer Dresses You Need to Look Hot Now!

This post is sponsored by Lit Boutique. All opinions are my own

The Perfect Slip Dress

Every girl needs a collection of slip dresses. I have several in a mix of different patterns and solids and they never let me down! They are such a classic wardrobe staple and work for pretty much anything your schedule calls for. Last minute meeting or zoom? Throw on a slip dress and a blazer. Running errands then popping into brunch? Grab a slip dress and some sneakers. The possibilities are endless! I love this soft printed blush dress since it’s so versatile, and has a special romantic feel. We aren’t going out much these days, but this is perfect for our occasional dinner at an outdoor restaurant.  Plus it’s under $100 so definitely a steal!

The Sassy Mini Dress

This dress is the perfect mini for those summer days and nights. It works perfectly with dad sneakers and a denim jacket for a casual look. Or you can dress it up with some strappy heels for a sexy evening outfit.  The material is also a great quality and has a nice thickness to it so it feels much more expensive, and the color just can’t be beat! It’s fun and sassy with a nice youthful vibe, but high quality enough to be appropriate for a woman in her 30’s like me.  

The Flirty Crochet Dress

This dress is a boho girl’s dream! It comes in black and ivory and is a great little number for your summer wardrobe. I’ll be wearing this for our at home date nights as well as socially distant beach days. Add some layers of delicate gold jewelry and fringe flat sandals to complete the look. You can also top it with a denim jacket or a stylish kimono to take the look up a notch.

The Glam Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses are the perfect way to look casually glam and sophisticated. This tie-dye maxi is so unique and a great one for the summer rotation. The cutaway sides and back detail are super sexy and add a nice unexpected touch. And since tie-dye was the biggest trend to come out of quarantine, this is a glam way to get that look without attempting it yourself! It will be a long time before I’ll have any evening events to go to, but this would be perfect for entertaining at home.

What’s on your shopping list for summer? I’m linking all the outfits below and a few more pieces I’m crushing on!

Everything You Need to Know for The Perfect Elopement

I’m officially married! My husband and I had an intimate elopement last week and it was everything I could have dreamed of. The coronavirus is wreaking havoc on weddings this year and we had to cancel the legal ceremony we had planned for months. We are still hoping our destination wedding can go on this summer, but had planned a civil ceremony in NYC for March so we could celebrate with our families at home. However, the coronavirus lockdown in NY made that impossible.

We both were so ready to start our marriage, but knew it wouldn’t be possible to have the wedding we planned for at least a few more months. I know how stressful it is to have your wedding affected by coronavirus and wanted to share my tips for pulling off a last minute coronavirus elopement! These tips aren’t just for the coronavirus brides either. There are a lot of reasons to consider eloping instead of having a traditional wedding and reception. Keep reading for more about our elopement story and everything you need to know to plan a coronavirus wedding!

Pros and Cons of Elopement Weddings

There is a lot to consider when planning an elopement versus a traditional wedding. They may have a bit of a negative context because people used to elope when families didn’t approve of the marriage. However a modern elopement can be glam, fun, and a breeze to plan. The main con to consider is limiting your guest count. By nature, elopements are tiny and intimate. If you have always dreamed of a huge wedding surrounded by friends and family, eloping may not be for you.

However, in my opinion the pros far outweigh the cons! Elopements give you more creative freedom, less restrictions, and less stress related to planning. They are also a fraction of the cost of a wedding so you can save a ton of money. Plus the intimacy factor is unreal. There was something really special about our day being all about us and starting our marriage on our terms.

How to Plan an Elopement

We used Opus Events, a full-service elopement planner in Los Angeles. Their fee included day of coordination, scouting and securing permits for our location, the officiant, an amazing photography team, and personalized decor for our mini-reception. They pulled everything together in about 2 weeks and made the process super simple - all we had to do was approve a few options presented and show up and get hitched. I also considered Cactus Collective when we thought about eloping in Las Vegas. They put together some of the most stylish Las Vegas weddings and elopements I have ever seen!

If you want to save even more money on your wedding, you can totally plan it yourself. Get started by researching state parks and community gardens. Most public parks will grant a permit for a nominal fee. Due to coronavirus, a lot of parks are closed or not issuing permits. So you’ll have to do some extra research to find a space that doesn’t require permits. I’ve seen couples on Instagram getting married on beautiful street corners or in front of a stylish facade! Once you have ideas on a location, you’ll want to find a talented photographer to capture your special day. Instagram is the best way to look for photographers with a strong visual portfolio, and Yelp is great for getting reviews and real customer feedback.

You can also think of ways to make it more personal and special. I really wanted wedding cake for our big day. That meant finding a location that would allow food in and would have space for us to set up. I couldn’t find a bakery because everything has been shut down, so I decided to whip up a classic vanilla cake with lemon cream cheese frosting. I did a simple, semi-naked frosting style and topped it with fresh flowers that matched my bouquet for a charming, rustic feel. I also put together my own bridal bouquet with an assortment of grocery store flowers and blush ribbon I had left over from Christmas gifts. If you are not the DIY type totally fine! You can order a bouquet online, just give it a few extra days since shipping is slower. And you may be able to find a bake shop or at least grocery store cake if you need to have a wedding cake to complete your day. I would never DIY my cake or flowers for a big wedding, but since it was just me and my husband to be, there was less pressure for it to be perfect.

How to Include Friends & Family in Your Elopement

The groom told a few of his friends what we were planning, but I really didn’t tell anyone on my side until it was over! I had been feeling so paranoid about how covid-19 had affected our wedding plans and I didn’t want to jinx anything.

If you are less crazy than I am, there are lots of ways to help include your family or bridal party, even if they can’t physically be there. Set up a Zoom session so people can stream your wedding online, invite a few people if it’s safe to do so, and plan a group party to celebrate afterwards! Depending on your timing, you can do it right after your private ceremony, or even a few months down the road. One of my bridesmaids sent me a “something borrowed” for the ceremony, and we got to video chat with a few friends during our cake cutting. Elopements can be as private as you want them to be, or you can find ways to connect dozens of people you want to be present.

Resources for Brides Affected by Coronavirus

We are living in unprecedented times. No matter how crazy things get, you still deserve to have the bridal experience you’ve dreamed of. Hopefully your planners and venue are being flexible with the situation. Many wedding venues have been forced to close or cancel events, giving them no choice but to work with you to reschedule. The Knot and Wedding Wire teamed up to start a hotline for coronavirus brides and Brides has a detailed guide on postponing your wedding if need be,

And remember, there are thousands of brides in your exact same shoes! Follow wedding related Instagram accounts or Facebook groups to swap stories and resources and look for inspiration.

Hope these tips helped! No matter what, your wedding will happen (eventually) and it will be amazing! Also, make sure you check out the details of my super affordable wedding look below! Not counting the shoes, it was all under $200! My exact top and shoes are sold out, but linking a similar ones below.

4 Tips You Need to Know for Awesome Summer Style

I hope you are all staying calm and safe! I have been feeling up and down the past few weeks, focused on managing my anxiety and getting through this crisis. I wanted to shift gears a bit and focus on creating content that I love, and that hopefully inspires. While we are in quarantine with no end in sight, hopefully things will start getting back to normal by summer. I’m feeling optimistic that the coronavirus epidemic impact on summer travel will be minimal. I’m also hoping that our destination wedding will go on as planned, since I would hate to postpone the wedding due to Covid-19.

Whether you have weddings or travel planned this summer, you still have to get ready to slowly emerge from quarantine and get back to work and socializing IRL. That means making sure your wardrobe is ready! I have pretty much sworn off shopping just because of the economic impact of coronavirus. But I will be getting creative with shopping my closet and styling old favorites, updating a bit with super affordable accessories.

Here are my tips to freshen up your wardrobe and get back in style when quarantine is over!

Organize and Shop Your Closet

Now is a great time to take inventory of what you actually own! Go through your closet and drawers, especially the areas in the back that don’t get much attention. If you have time and space for storage, organize things to donate or sell online. I’m not doing this now because I won’t be able to go to a donation center for a while, and we don’t have the extra storage space. But if you can throw bags of unwanted stuff in your garage or somewhere for later, definitely do so!.

You can also think about reorganizing your closet in a way that makes sense for you. I try to have a section of work clothes, party clothes/formalwear, and my dresses, tops and blazers merchandised by color. It doesn’t always stay so organized, especially not after a few laundry sessions or dry cleaning dropoffs, but I do make effort to stick to the system.

Having everything organized and as visible as possible makes it easier to get creative with how you style items you already own. Play with combining different pieces, layering various elements, and making several new looks. It may take some time, but you will definitely be able to come up with fun, stylish new ways to wear your favorite pieces and resist the urge to just buy new stuff.

Take Advantage of Sales

Retail has been severely impacted by coronavirus, and the sales and discounts are unbelievable. If you are able to take advantage, you can definitely score some major bargains almost anywhere you’d like to shop. Most stores are closed but online sites still up and running. After auditing your closet, make a list of what you may be missing or what needs to be replaced. Whether it’s basic t-shirts because your old favorites are stained, or a pair of killer pumps that are on clearance, shop smart and strategically.

I personally am not shopping right now so have been making every effort to resist the sales! But I did notice that Nordstrom is offering 40%, Macy’s is offering 30% off and Urban Outfitters is 50% off! Revolve is also offering 30% off select styles so you can grab some of their cool-girl friendly summer styles.

Focus on Accessories to Update Your Look

Accessories can take your outfit to the next level! The perfect bag, statement jewelry, or pair of shoes can make or break the look. I love to get on-trend accessories from Amazon. There are hundreds of affordable options and designer dupes that can elevate your look at super cheap prices. Lulu’s and Forever21 are also some of my faves for budget friendly accessories .

For summer, look for mini bucket bags, square toe strappy sandals, soft folded clutch bags, and chunky gold jewelry. Bold padded headbands are still trending this season, and so are colorful blocky sunglasses. Have fun spicing up your look with color and texture, but I don’t recommend spending a lot on trendy accessories! They can come and go out of style in a matter of weeks so not worth investing heavily in.

Don’t Neglect Your Hair and Makeup

I’m probably one of very few people that still does basic hair and makeup every day, even though I’m not leaving the house. Something about having a daily routine helps me maintain a sense of normalcy and gives structure to my days. If you aren’t someone who is particularly into beauty, there is no need to start a new regimen now. But if you are a beauty lover or someone who frequents salons, try to keep up with your beauty treatments at home.

I know, I know, it’s probably been a few weeks before you’ve been able to go to a salon! But self-care is always important, especially in times like these! You want to be ready to slay the second we can get out of quarantine, so don’t let things get too rough. You don’t have to do any elaborate styling or makeup, but stay on top of basic maintenance, like filing your nails, trimming cuticles, and regularly washing and deep conditioning your hair. When it’s time for you to get back into full glam, the process will be much easier!

Hopefully these tips help you get some ideas for when this is all over. But in the meantime make sure you are staying home and staying safe!

6 Ways to Get Ready for Valentine’s Day!

Love is in the air!

We’re just a few weeks away from Valentine’s Day. No matter your relationship status, Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the ones you love, show them some appreciation, and eat a ton of candy! I love Valentines’ Day, and not just because I’m lucky enough to have a fiancé that is a hopeless romantic. I guess I’ve always had an appreciation of the holiday and what it means – celebrating love and relationships in all their forms!  If you aren’t exactly feeling the Valentine’s Day spirit, here are a few tips to help get you in the mood.

Plan a Galentine’s Party

Get your girls together for some fun! You can host a chic pajama party at home, go out to a fancy dinner, or keep it casual and hit up your favorite bar. Bonus points if you promise NOT to talk about boys all night, regardless of your current dating or relationship situation. Focus on time with your friends and strengthening those female friendships! 

Book a Coveted Beauty Treatment

Self-love comes first! It’s really easy to get stressed and feel pressured or anxious, especially this time of year. Treat yourself to some rest, relaxation and indulgence. If you love spa treatments, book a massage or facial that you love. If you’ve been debating trying a cosmetic procedure or new hairstyle, go ahead and treat yourself. You deserve to look and feel your best. Check out sites like Gilt City for deals, or follow salons and spas you love on Instagram for exclusive discounts in case you want to save a bit on your experience. 

Volunteer for a Cause in Your Community

Show love by giving back! While charitable associations see a huge influx in volunteers around the holidays, numbers start dwindling in the weeks after. Now is a great time to show your support for a cause you stand behind. Think about a cause that will inspire you and get you engaged in your community. It’s normal to feel a little bit of Valentine’s Day dread. Keeping yourself busy in a productive way that supports a cause is a great way to shake off some of that moodiness. 

Set Up a Fun and Unique Date Night 

If you are seriously coupled up or just casually dating, plan a fun and romantic night out! You can avoid the overpriced and overpacked restaurants and do something more creative. See a show, go to an arcade, go wine tasting, or something beyond just dinner at a local restaurant. You can also save money and avoid the crowds by going out the day before or after Valentine’s Day! Find a way to make celebrating Valentine’s Day fun, unique and special, instead of falling into the same old routine. 

Enjoy Some Quality Time to Yourself

Part of self-care is giving yourself room to disconnect. If you’ve been feeling stressed, swamped and overwhelmed, you may need to indulge in some much needed me time. That can mean curling up with a good book, spending time on journaling and meditation, or lazing by a pool with a good cocktail in hand. Maybe it even means planning a quick solo trip or staycation to reset. Think about what you need to center yourself and stay inspired, and carve out time to treat yourself to that. 

Freshen Up Your Wardrobe for Spring

Shopping is almost always a good idea! February is a great time to start planning your Spring shopping since most brands drop their new collections that month. Get first dibs on coveted pieces before they sell out! Plus, a lot of retailers are still having end of winter sales, so grab some goodies to save for next season. 

 Check out my picks for some of the Valentine’s Day looks I love!

4 Quick and Easy Ways to Improve Your Style for Spring!

 Can you believe we are already halfway through January!  Last year I felt like January dragged on forever but this year it seems to be flying by. Since Spring will be here before you know it, why not start thinking about how to transition your wardrobe? Spring is honestly one of my favorite seasons to start shopping, although I will probably barely notice the change of seasons here in LA! NY gets to experience the best of every season, but LA is warm and sunny almost all year round. Can’t complain because the weather in LA is absolutely the best, but I do miss dressing for different seasons and embracing seasonal fashion trends. Here are my tips for transitioning your look from winter to Spring!

 Start by Denim Shopping for Spring 

Jeans are always a staple for women. Whether they are high waisted jeans, or oversized boyfriend jeans, denim is an essential! I love freshening up my denim wardrobe for Spring with new fits, washes and details. Lighter shades, metallics, and prints are all fair game. Once you have your perfect pairs of jeans, think of fun ways to style them. A classic white button blouse will work with pretty much any pair. That look can easily be dressed up or down depending on your shoes and accessories too! I also love styling high waisted mom jeans or oversized boyfriend jeans with a fitted bodysuit or crop top for a look that is sexy and sporty. 

 Update Your Spring Floral Dresses

Yes, we see different versions of spring florals every year, but they don’t have to be boring and predictable! Spring florals can be edgy, stylish, modern, and romantic, depending on the scale, placement and color. If you are looking for Spring outfit ideas, a floral dress is always a good place to start. You can layer it with a cute chunky knit or stylish denim jacket and they pair well with everything from boots to penny loafers. Embrace the Spring vibe with some fun, flirty and feminine dresses. 

 Play with New Fabrics and Textures for Spring

Spring is time to lighten up so start by getting rid of your heavy winter fabrics! Go for easy, breezy materials like silk, chiffons and light weight cotton. I love a flowy chiffon dress or a pair of silk jogger pants, and they are just as chic in natural silk or a more affordable synthetic version. Plus, items like this easily transition from Spring to Summer, so you can continue to get use out of them throughout the year. 

Add the Perfect Spring Accessories

Now that you’ve got your cute Spring outfits planned, it’s time to think about the accessories! Updating accessories is a fun and affordable way to get your wardrobe ready for a new season. Swap out your go to Fall or Winter bag for something in a lighter color or fun material. Think about picking up some new costume jewelry. And since it can still be a little chilly, don’t forget the legwear. You can still wear tights in Spring, and they are a great way to add a special touch to your look. I also like the idea of adding a pair of cute socks with a print or ruffle detail for an unexpected bit of texture.

 If you’re anything like me, you want to update your wardrobe without over spending. Check out some of my favorite sites for affordable fashion and shop some of my Spring faves below! 

4 Easy Ways to Look Effortlessly Chic when Traveling

I have several trips planned this month and am so excited! Travelling can be exhausting, especially around the holiday season, but in my opinion the experience is always worth it. Of course, it can be a struggle to stay stylish on the go when you are juggling itineraries, chasing flights and hauling around days or weeks worth of luggage. Here are some of my tips to instantly up your chic factor when travelling with minimal effort.

Keep Your Clothes Fitted When Travelling

Yes, comfort is key when you are on the road, and there is no sacrificing that. However one of the easiest ways to look put together not messy is to make sure your clothes fit you well! I’m not saying wear a tailored dress or fresh pressed suit, just keep the silhouette neat and clean for a much more polished overall effect. That can mean a change as small as wearing leggings instead of sweat pants or a cozy cashmere sweater instead of an oversized baggy sweatshirt. You will be equally comfortable but look way more stylish!

Carry Functional Accessories in a Neutral Color Palette

You know that you need your ID, phone, and if you do the print version, a boarding pass handy. Keep the essentials together in a clutch you can easily whip out and tuck back in your tote bag to avoid the dreaded bag lady style fumbling around. Bonus points if you have a jacket or blazer that let’s you keep these items in your pocket. And if you only make one switch, trade in your ridiculous noodle pillow for an inflatable version. It’s impossible to look chic wearing one of those! I carry one that folds flat and can be easily inflated once I’m on board.

Dress Appropriately for the Destination

American tourists can be notoriously easy to spot, especially in the summer! Instgaram has changed some of that since everyone wants to get the perfect shot for the gram, and what you are wearing is half the battle. Putting a little effort into your OOTD not only helps make sure you get great pictures to document your trip, it can also help you more seamlessly blend into the style of the destination. When I was in France this summer I stuck to a a few simple slip dresses, comfortable walking sandals, and tailored shorts and blouses instead of denim cutoffs and t-shirts. My Paris wardrobe was wildly different than what I would pack for somewhere like Bermuda or Aruba, where I was all about pop colors, fun chunky jewelry and colorful scarves to accessorize. Plan your looks based on where you are going and what you have planned to blend in, look stylish, and get pics you will love!

Always Pack Classic Accessories

Sometimes unexpected things happen when traveling. Things spill and leave stains, the weather refuses to cooperate and your hair ends up a mess, the airline loses your luggage. You may have to pivot your outfit or pickup some cheap clothes on the way, but one way to always salvage your look is adding timeless, classic accessories. Things like dark sunnies, simple hair clips, and small stud earrings can easily take a basic outfit up a notch. Just do yourself a favor and keep them in your carry-on!

What are your essentials for staying stylish on the go? Let me know in the comments and shop some of my favorite travel accessories below!

Fall Fashion Basics with Fruit of the Loom!

This post is sponsored by Babbleboxx on behalf of Fruit Of The Loom

Are you guys feeling the Fall vibes yet?

September just started so not officially Fall yet, but in the fashion world it’s a pretty exciting time! Between NYFW and the new collections dropping, it’s definitely the time to start getting ready for the Fall season. It will still be pretty hot and sunny here in LA for a while but I’m getting ready for a trip to NY and I’m so excited for a little taste of Fall weather! I’ve been thinking about how to transition my style for LA Fall vs NY Fall, so will be figuring that out as I go. I’m imagining a lot of loose-fitting jeans and stylish tops, slip dresses layered with light sweaters, and casual cool-girl booties.

However, no matter what season it is or what OOTD you are rocking, you need a good foundation. Lately I’ve been turning to Fruit of the Loom Breathable Micro-Mesh bikinis as my go to undies. They are made with breathable, micro-mesh fabric that supports the flow of air so you stay cool and fresh all day long. Plus they feature soft leg bands, a smooth waistband and are tag free to provide extra comfort.

As you already know, what you wear underneath can really make or a break an outfit, so cover your bases with Fruit of the Loom Breathable Micro-Mesh bikinis! They make an assortment of colors and styles to fit with whatever look you put together.

Check them out and let me know what Fall trends you are most excited to rock!

Every Affordable Outfit You Need to Look Hot This Summer!

I don’t care what they say - it’s still summer and I’m still rolling with that vibe! I know a lot of the fashion world is getting excited about the change of season, but I’m still very much in summer mode. Maybe because it went by way too quickly, or because it’s still a balmy 90 degrees in LA, but whatever the reason, won’t be breaking out Fall clothes any time soon.

In the spirit of endless summer, I partnered with Pretty Little Thing to create an end of summer haul! PLT is one of my favorite websites for stylish, affordable fashion. They have a huge assortment of product and new drops on a regular, so stay tuned to their site and Insta for the hottest new arrivals.

I pulled a few of my looks for my Palm Springs trip from the site, and they were all hits! I love the slip dresses and pretty much need them in every color. Denim shorts are a summer essential, and I found the perfect pairs for a low-key lived in vibe. Paired with vintage inspired graphic tees, you’ll be set for casual summer days!

Plus whatever you need by way of accessories, they’ve got you covered! I love my clear mini bag and the black pearl one is stylish and sophisticated. They also have a great assortment of jewelry, hair clips, scaves, and anything else you’d need to perfectly finish your look!

Check out my looks below and let me know your faves! And make sure you get in all the summer activities you can before it’s too late!

Ultimate Beauty Hacks You Need to Get Gorgeous Now

New season, new makeup right?

As much as I love summer, I have to admit Fall makeup is my fave. I welcome the chance to get moodier and more dramatic with my looks. Plus I’ve become a major lipstck afficionado the past few years and Fall is the perfect time to embrace deep dark shades that make my favorite feature pop! I’m not sure how my Fall makeup looks will play out in LA, but am excited about playing with new trends and products. My instinct is that because of the weather here it will be much later in the season before I can really break out stuff like deep emerald eyeshadows and matte berry lips. But I’m excited to play with more transitional looks in the meantime! Here are some beauty trends I’ve noticed popping up for Fall, and how I plan to incorporate them into my makeup routine.

Naturally Flawless Foundation with a Radiant Finish

The days of heavy matte foundation are pretty much over! I am definitely guilty of layering it on and powdering heavily, even baking, to keep my beat in place. Since LA is much drier than NY I’m not as worried about my makeup melting away, and my skin is so much better behaved so I don’t need as much coverage. I’ve played with tinted moisturizers which are great for casual, no makeup makeup days, but I still like to look more polished on a daily. Luckily there are a slew of lighter weight liquid foundations on the market that are designed to look like your skin, just way better. Blend with a damp brush or sponge for a lighter, more sheer finish. And don’t forget your primer and concealer! My foundation routine really would not be complete without them.

Jewel Toned Eyeshadow Palettes & Liners

One thing I’ve been playing with is monochromatic eye looks. I love the look of pairing a bold colorful shadow look with a sweep of liner in a complimentary shade to really seal the deal. For summer I’ve been living for the Fenty Vivid Liquid Eyeliner Trio, which pairs pretty perfectly with some of my favorite hues in the Anastasia Beverly Hills Riviera Palette. I’m not ure which liner I’ll be turning to for Fall, but I CANNOT wait to get my hands on the Jackie Aina x ABH Palette. Jackie has been one of my YouTube favorites for years and the colors in this palette are gorgeous. Plus with the consistent quality of ABH shadows, I know this will be an instant classic.

Lightly Stained Lips

I love my lipsticks and tend to go for bold color. But something about LA life makes me want to lighten it up. Not saying I’ll be sticking to nudes or glosses, but will be playing more with lipstains and tints. I like the idea of a hint of color instead of the full blast, but definitely keeping the nice deep berrys and bold reds that I love.

Let me know what beauty products and trends you guys are getting into for Fall, and shop my picks for each trend below!

Quick and Easy Ways To Look Your Best this Summer!

The best season of the year is in full swing! Summer is full of long sunny days and nights that require easy, breezy fun pieces that keep you stylish and comfy. This summer I’ve been really into bold prints and patterns and easy footwear that gets me through morning noon and night. I try to avoid spending a lot on summer clothes, since I’m generally not a huge shopper, but I do like to refresh my look a bit to make things more fun. Here are a few of the trends I love this season and how I’m rocking them!

Printed Separates and Crop Tops

I can’t resist a bold print, and when it comes on a pair of billowy pants even better! The palm tree pattern is perfect for my new home here in LA! Plus since I’ve been trying to step up my workouts and diet I feel much more confident stepping out in a tiny crop top. This tie-front version bares a good amount of skin but still feels elegant, so you can def dress it up or down, but I suggest keeping the bottom high-waisted so you have a bit more coverage.

The Summer Power Dress

When I think power dress, what usually comes to mind is a structured silhouette in a bold color, probably paired with some killer heels. To get that vibe in a more relaxed, summery feel I prefer a statement making maxi dress. Options with a more classic silhouette like a wrap dress or with a more structured hem work nicely for the office or an evening out. And they go great with pretty much any shoe in your wardobe, from sandals, heels to dad sneakers!

The Granny Chic Sundress

It’s a guilty pleasure, but I love a hint of something granny-esque in my #OOTDs! I love dresses like this ditzy floral midi dress since it’s comfy and casual enough for brunch and rooftop hopping, with just a bit of old school elegance. The slightly boxy fit makes it effortless and cool, not sexy like a more body-skimming style. Plus it’s light and airy enough for even a scorching summer day!

Shop these looks and some of my other favorite pieces for the season below!

The Only Things You Need to Look Your Best This Summer!

We’re just about a week away from the unofficial start of summer! Memorial Day weekend is about to kick off and since it’s time to spend more time having fun in the sun, I wanted to share my quick and easy #OOTD formula to make getting ready a breeze! If you consider yourself a lazy dresser but want to play with separates instead of throwing on a tired sundress, stay tuned for one of my go to outfit combinations!

Even though my boyfriend despises them, I am absolutely obsessed with mom jeans! They are so comfy and chic, and give you an instant cool girl vibe. I rock them with everything from crop tops and bodysuits in spring and summer, and sweaters and blazers for cooler months. My favorite pairs are in medium wash denim and a pale blue that is perfect for summer. Add a feminine printed blouse and you are ready to go!

I’ve also been really into clear plastic totes! It sounds crazy but they are surprisngly chic. It also gives me a chance to get more of my pretty clutches into regular rotation since I stash anything I don’t want fully visible in one of them then pop it in the tote. Plus they are super affordable, with mine going for under $30 on Amazon!

Let me know your go-to pieces for summer and how you style them! And shop the story below!

Not the Met Gala but Still Fun! Black Tie Galas You Can Actually Get into

Today is a national fashion holiday – the Met Gala! Every fashionista is ready to pull up a chair and stay glued to their phones and social media for a first look at what everyone will be wearing on the red carpet. I’ve never been huge on awards shows, but I love the Met Gala! The looks are always so much more creative and inspiring than your typical red carpet, and I love seeing how celebs interpret the theme each year. This year’s theme is Camp: Notes on Fashion, so I’m expecting to see a whole lot of TOO MUCH on the red carpet tonight and I’m hoping my favorite celebs take risks and have fun. 

 Obviously, I’m not attending the Met Gala tonight, but I do love going to the occasional gala or black-tie function. It’s always great to get uber glam and go out to show support of a cause, but the ticket prices can be astronomical! Because I’m all about living your most glam, but affordable life, I scoured the internet for the best galas with tickets you can actually afford! They are still not cheap tickets, but some start as low as $100, which is just a little bit more than dinner/drinks out in the city or a new Zara dress. Check out the list below and save this post for future reference! 

 Black Tie Events Coming Up This Month

Harlem Nights 2019 - Harlem Rotary & Active Plus Gala

May 10, Tickets for $100-$130

 The Rotary Club of Harlem is one of 35,000+ clubs that work together to promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, save mothers and children, support education and grow local economies.Their annual gala is inspired by the classic film, Harlem Nights so get ready to bring your 1920’s glam! Get tickets here: 

 Navigating the Future: City Living NY's Annual Fundraiser

May 14, Tickets for $100

CITY LIVING NY’s mission is to empower youth aging out of foster care to successfully transition into adulthood by providing concrete resources, tools, and support services. This gala honors the work of those who made their missions possible and raises funds for their 2019-2020 service year. Get your tickets here. 

Tomorrow's Smile Today Gala 

May 16, Tickets for $100

 Tomorrow's Smile Today is a registered non-profit organization founded to provide education, information, and treatment to under-served populations worldwide and here in the United States. This year’s gala will focus on their recent work in Kenya and will provide supporters with more information about their Summer 2019 missions. Get your tickets here.

Galas and Events to Save for Next Year

These are events I’ve been to myself, but the dates have passed. Pin the graphic below and reference this post when it’s time to buy tickets!

 The Guggenheim Museum Young Collectors Party

The art museums flagship event is a blast! The YCC is a group of young professionals who enjoy private programs led by curators, a dedicated calendar of events, and invitations to parties and opening receptions. This is their annual formal event and tickets usually run between $200-250. Check out the Guggenheim’s Instagram for scenes from this year’s event and follow their social or website to find out about 2019 tickets! 

The Museum of the City of New York Harlem Whiskey Renaissance

The Museum of the City of New York is one of my favorites. It’s all about celebrating the history and culture of NY. They have several galas and events through the year, but one not to miss is the Harlem Whiskey RenaissanceGala. The party has a lighter tone than some ofhte more traditional benefits and fundraisers, as it celebrates whiskey and its storied past as the drink of choice for artisans and intellectuals during the Harlem Renaissance. Plus I see a discount on Pulsd for this event every year, giving you about half off the already affordable tickets! 

Let me know what summer events you can’t wait to attend, and of course your favorite looks on the Met Gala red carpet!