Tips when Packing for that Quick Beach Get-a-Way...

I have decided I've got to escape this...

...& temporarily trade hats & scenery...

...for this...

Yep, I'm jetting off to the beach next week for some much needed Vitamin D!  Quick trip- plans are to even pack in a carry on (ew).  So if you're like me & a carry on is deemed as an impossible feat, try using these simple packing tips when heading out on those quick beach get-a-ways!

Tip 1: Basic Black

Every girl needs a basic black swimsuit.  Not only is it chic, it's easy to match with other beach accessories. aka no need to pack 9 patterned suits to match 9 different hats & sunglasses...

Tip 2: Bright Beach Tunic

Here is where you add your pop of color if the idea of an entirely black swimsuit is not settling well with you.  Don't be that girl that walks around in her bikini inside the resort.  Throw on a light weight tunic when heading to the beach. 

Tip 3: Woven Fedora

Besides the obvious imperative need for facial spf- a fedora is perfect for blocking those harmful rays from your face, as well as controlling your beach blown hair, as well as looking entirely well-put-together while on the beach!  For those quick trips- there's no need for more than 1 chic beach hat & I highly recommend a woven fedora...

Tip 4: Havaianas 

You guys know me, I'm a huge fan of the espedrille wedge, but let's be real- a great pair of flip flops is like heaven on your soles.  I'm faithful to Havaianas, but whichever brand you decide, stick to a 1 solid color flip flop.  My suggestion would be silver because then you're not stuck in the category of black-brown-blue & that just leads to fashion issues...

Tip 5: Classic Aviators

Aviators go with everything! & luckily, they look good on everybody!  Stop wasting space & packing multiple pairs of sunglasses when there is actually 1 style that goes great with everything...

Tip 6: Bold Maxi Dress

Maxi Dresses are be beachy & casual- perfect for throwing on for dinner.  I would suggest to sticking to a fun, bright, bold, solid color, which allows you to easily pack matching accessories...

Tip 7: Corals & Turquoise Accessories

Coral & Turquoise are perfect color pops when accessorizing at the beach.  A bright wrap bracelet like this, will bring style to your simple maxi dress, as well as bright color to your black bikini (get the idea here- multi-versatile accessories)... 

Tip 8: Cotton Shawl

For those chillier nights out & about, opt for a cotton shawl to drape over your shoulders.  A gray shawl works perfectly with the yellow maxi dress & even better with your silver havaianas...

Tip 9: Beach Tote

You'll want a tote for your belongings when heading to the beach & I am obsessing over these Michael Kors woven totes! Perfect size & since we're trying to maximize the space we have to pack, this will act as your purse for the weekend...

Tip 10: Statement Wristlet 

Your tote is intended to haul your beach towel, book, water, etc... down to the beach- not be toted to mornings perusing the market or evening dinners.  A bright clutch or wristlet solves these problems.  Large enough to store your wallet & lipgloss, but small enough to still be chic while out on an adventure...

 Happy Friday, Friends! See you when I get back :)

xo, kl

Decorating Trends & Tips: Sea Foam Green...

While on the hunt for my new home, I have spent endless hours searching for interior deco inspiration.  One color palette that I am obsessing over, is Sea Foam Green...

It's a color that I definitely want to incorporate within my home- as it fits perfectly within my own personal style of Vintage/Shabby/Chic/Light & Bright/Bold Features style...

Although... I am not quite sure which room to integrate it in?  Kitchen...

...Or living space? 

Personally, the color is a little too extreme for me to jump head first in with floor to ceiling Sea Foam Green walls. But I have come to terms with the fact that I need to handle it like I handle all new fashion trends- Start small & allow it to be the bold look...

So to conclude, I have decided to unite the chic Sea Foam Green color with simple features, such as lamps, vases & hardware!  Here are a few more ideas as to how you can incorporate your trendy color palette- but without it looking so extreme...

Drab to Fab with Color Pops...

Without jinxing it, I will admit we have had a pretty do-able winter so far here in MN! Earlier this week it peaked at 50 degrees, which is unheard of in January, but so very much appreciated.  Not only has the temperature been fabulous, but we have had beautiful sunshine filled days! ... Until today- with a dramatic drop to 7 degrees & dreary.  I'm a fan of color & bright & shiny & did I mention color?  So on dreadfully cold & overcast days like today, I made it imperative to add pops of color to my life...

Most leave their brights for spring & summer, but I could not disagree more!  Color pops are perfect for spicing up bland neutral winter colors...

The easiest way is to begin with accessories!  Do not pack away that perfectly chic Tiffany Blue gold chain bag for summer- spruce up your winter look with it...

I think in MN, most women eat, sleep, & breath in scarves daily!  They have become a staple item in many women's wardrobes! While color blocking was a fun trend to try last summer, bring the trend back alive by pairing your brightest scarf with your boldest knit sweater...

Another way to incorporate va-va-voom into a dreary outfit is with simple pops of color in your jewelry!  As you all know, I am a huge fan of chunky necklaces, & this my friends- is a trend that is very multi-seasonal...

Like I mentioned yesterday, J.Crew has some pretty amazing finds right now in their juicy color palette full of wonderfulness.  Including some great colored cigarette pants!  Perfect for that casual dress day at work- especially one needing a color pop...

Here are a few of my favorite Color Pop Accessories that add life to any poor weather day...

{Kate Spade Clutch}

{Nordstrom Brand Scarf}

{Nixon Watch}

{Kendra Scott Earrings}

{Pink Mascara Necklace}

{Kate Spade Cocktail Ring}

{Tory Burch Flats}

{Alexis Bittar Bangles}

New Year! New What I'm Loving Right Now...

Welcome to 2012! Another year set to fulfill high expectations of inspiring others...

Do you set resolutions each year? 

One of my main goals is to get back to blogging for you little pretties!!  What better way to start off my first 2012 post than with, What I am Loving Right Now 2012 Edition...

1. Mixing my Golds & Silvers

I do love adhering to traditional style faux pas- but this my friends, is certainly not one of them!  Stacks of gold & silver is not only charming, but entirely fresh & chic...

2. Crochet Dresses

As you will see in the upcoming weeks, my inner haute hippy prevails with my adoration for all things lace & crochet.  The best part about crochet is that it is can be played down for fun & flirty, as well as played up as professional & classy. I must say, do invest in crochet...

3. Pops of Pink

(Clearly my love for crochet continues...) But play around with crochet & colors without feeling like you're stuck in the 70's (hey! I personally loved the 70's style).  If you're daring, try the look with neutrals & simple features- i.e.. simple wedge booties, cream button down boyfriend top, minimal jewelry, etc...

4. Skinny Pleats Maxi Skirt

I recently splurged on an Anthroplogie long, skinny pleated, green, maxi skirt & it was so worth every penny!  Not only are maxi skirts perfect for spring, I'm finding many ways to make mine versatile for winter too! Pair yours with wedge ankle booties & a long sleeve simple top fixed with a chunky scarf & you've easily made your new maxi skirt multi-seasonal...

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut Oil, Coconut Oil, Coconut Oil!! My latest & greatest obsession that has virtually nothing to do with fashion!  I have been reading everywhere about this stuff & I finally gave it a go & I cannot believe I've gone 23 years without this stuff!  The many different uses are incredible.  If this intrigues you- keep reading, if not, move on to #6! First, I bought mine for $9.00 at Whole Foods- there are some for $30+ & I have never read anything specific with the more expensive so stick with the $9.00.  You will want Unrefined Raw Coconut Oil (it comes in a jar the same size as pasta sauce). Buy more than 1, they are hardly staying on the shelves, & you will not regret it!  So, naturally, I start by using mine for my morning shakes- I put, 2 Tbls of Coconut Oil, 4-5 Ice Cubes, Vanilla Greek Yogurt, & fresh bananas & strawberries... blend & enjoy! Not only does it add a bit of Coconut Flavor, it also acts as a natural energy for your body.  I have not desired/needed a coffee in the morning since! Next, (my favorite use) I use it on my skin!  It is by far the best make-up remover that I have every used. I rub it all over my entire face & continue to rinse until theres not a thick layer of oil.  My skin has never felt more moisturized, yet taut.  My fine lines are much less noticeable as well as my lashes are more full & lengthy! I swear this is a miracle cream.  

6. Emerald Accessories 

My love for jade continue to grow, but in a deeper darker direction!  I have seen pops of emerald all over the runway & it looks equally as appealing in person!  Try this color trend in accessories with navy & peach attire...

7. Over the Knee Boots

When done correctly, this look can be very stylish & clean.  Automatically you think Julia Roberts-Pretty Woman, when you think thigh high boots, but keep the amount of skin showing minimal & the style ends up being very chic! I purchased my first over the knee boot this winter & I've worn them with denim jeggings, black leggings, as well as opaque tights & high stockings...

8. Unique Weddings

I have 7, yes, 7 weddings in 2012 & a few are of my closest & dearest friends.  I have loved being a part of the months leading up to their special day & the most fabulous part has been how uniquely special all of the brides ideas are coming together! Very inspiring to be a part of & see so many fine details go into a day shared of love...

9. J.Crew Spring 2012

Warning! If your bank account is dwindling & you're a shop-o-holic... Do Not Look Now!  J.Crew wow'd me when I stepped into their stores post Christmas Chaos.  Their spring colors are phenomenal & they truly test your skills in not purchasing the entire store.  Go to J.Crew & walk around in their fantasy rainbow filled with creative goodness...

10. Mind Body Soul

For 2012, I have really dedicated myself to my practice & to transform my Mind, Body, & Soul.  So far it has been blissful & I cannot wait to share with you all what I have learned along the way...

So whatever your perception is about resolutions, do 1 thing for me...

Cheers to a New Year Friends!

xo, kl