White Now

Forget the rules and play by your own. Wear white now and always - I sure do!

I'm in love with this dress. It's everything a summer dress should be; it's ethereal and light, it has intricate lace details, there's a modestly sheer element to it, and it's got great movement and flow. 

The hints of sparkle and pops of pearl give this summery dress an elegant vibe and princess-like edge. 

As one of my favorite and most unique necklaces, this piece never fails to enhance my look in a head-turning kind of way. The edginess contrasts with my soft, white palette and creates a major focal point. 

White & silver is a glam combination for summer but once fall and winter roll around, try cream and gold for a warm punch of polish. 

Bonus for wearing white right now: the shade will prolong your tan thus keeping vacation alive just a little bit longer! 

This quintessential farm setting with horses frolicking in the background is just the place I envisioned this outfit being worn in. There's just something about a beautiful white dress paired with cowboy boots. It's very charming and very southern. 

Photos by Dan Harper

[dress: Mary Catherine's boutique, boots: Very Volatile, headband: Nordstrom, necklace: Alexis Bittar, earrings: Macy's, leather bracelet: Fossil, spike bracelet: Stella & Dot, bangles: Alex & Ani]

Just because it's after Labor Day doesn't mean I'm shedding my whites. In fact, I'm embracing my last opportunities to bask in the sun and wear my favorite dresses and skirts sans tights. 

I'm definitely not letting the fact that September is over discourage me from making the most out of my warm-weather wardrobe before it's too late. After all, fall doesn't begin until Sept. 23rd. And for those of us living in the South, we've got summer heat until late November! 

Live it up everyone! Because winter is very long and very cold. 

SHOP :: 

Fancy Pineapple :: out on the town

On Monday I posted a back-to-campus look centered on a pineapple tee. Today I want to focus on that same tee but this time give it a dressier vibe to demonstrate just how versatile a statement tee like this can be. 

The tininess of this pineapple print ensures sophistication while still staying fun and trendy. It's all about those subtle details. 

This top, and ones similar to it, can take you from hitting the books to hitting the town. All you need for an effortless transition is a quick accessory switch-up!

Start by adding some feminine charm with layers of pearls; they instantly provide polish. 

To dress up a versatile tee for a night on the town, a skirt is a must. I love this one because of the sheer paneling at the hem and its subtle pleats and stripes. It's those minimal details that transform a simple black skirt into an envy-worthy piece fit for your nicest occasions.  

Sleek black heels are a staple in any wardrobe. The style of the season is the ankle-strap look. Peep-toe heels and booties are definitely having a moment as well.

I threw on this yellow bangle for a pop of color. I like how it ties in with my pineapple theme. 

These sparkly emerald studs compliment the entire look. They pull each piece together with a bold flash of color. 

Photos by Dan Harper 

[pineapple top: Ann Taylor, skirt: Ann Taylor, heels: Zara (similar style), thick bangles: Ann Taylor, thin bangles: Alex & Ani, earrings: boutique]

When I'm back-to-school shopping I like to purchase pieces that easily transition from the classroom to the office, even to a nighttime event. This pineapple tee is a great choice for any of the above venues - all I have to do is switch up my accessories and BAM - a whole new look! 

After my first week of classes I'm more than ready to take this fun print for a spin in a different setting; I can't think of a better atmosphere than a classy outdoor concert at sunset. 

SHOP ::

Casual Pineapple :: back to class

I finally got my hands on some pineapple print and created a casual yet playful look around this hot summer trend. Bonus: the look hits the nail on the head in terms of back-to-class style. 

This tiny pineapple print tee is adorable for layering.  

A jumper is a classic silhouette that always reminds me of the back-to-school season. In elementary school I usually started the year in one of these dresses layered over a white collard blouse. Now, 12 years later, the jumper is still a standard piece in any wardrobe but I've given the look a personal, more mature spin.

These oxfords are probably the comfiest shoes I own. They're the ultimate style for back-to-school due to their preppy yet contemporary look combined with their versatility. But best of all, they dress up a simple pair of jeans while dressing down a skirt or dress. They're my shoe of choice for class! 

This pop of yellow in my bracelet compliments the pineapple print while brightening up my blue jumper. Pink, yellow, and pale blue is such a fun color combination. 

This Kenneth Jay Lane necklace is one of my favorites because it's pink (surprise, surprise) and it can actually be worn two ways. I prefer it the long way...

But my mom likes it this shorter way. Either way it adds some sparkle to any outfit! 

Photos by Dan Harper 

[jumper: Urban Outfitters, pineapple top: Ann Taylor, shoes: Clark's, necklace: Kenneth Jay Lane, sunglasses: Anthropologie, watch: Fossil, yellow bracelet: J.Crew, silver studded bangle: Ann Taylor]

What a whirlwind this summer has been! I can't believe that classes start tomorrow and soon my senior year of college will be in full swing. It's funny to think back on the last three years and see how much has changed (my style, my goals, my confidence). Freshman me is completely different from senior me and I just know that by the time I graduate in May I'll feel even more mature...and maybe just a little more prepared for the real world (let's hope)! 

Here's to my very last first day of school! 

SHOP ::