My necklace collection has grown perhaps an embarrassing amount in the past 365 days. I’ve learned that topping anything from an uber casual tee to a classic navy shift dress can have transformative powers with the right accessories, particularly a necklace. While a statement bracelet or cocktail ring, or even heels can give a look a fresh feel, freshening up your necklace gives the optical illusion you are wearing a totally new outfit.
This necklace from BaubleBar is a recent addition, and I’ve found myself working outfits around it I adore it so much. The colors are perfect for spring, and it strikes that perfect balance to wear on the weekend, like here, or to work, or even a bridal shower or spring wedding. Jewelry win! Looks like it sold out in a heartbeat, but this, this and this are also so perfect for multiple occasions (and each under $50!).
tee: j. crew // vest: gap // skinnies: lucky via tj maxx (similar, or similar for $15!) // flats: sam edelman (old, adore these and these) // necklace: baublebar // bracelet: c/o nissa jewelry // watch: michael kors (similar)
More pictures on the other side of this link! Keep Reading —>>
As you read this, I’m in Puerto Rico enjoying a much-needed and way-overdue vacay with my man. We haven’t been away, out of the state without our girl, in a really long time, and we’re really excited about the opportunity just to reconnect and recharge. In prepping for the trip earlier this week, I realized that the top of an awesome suit I got last month was fitting weird. I took it back, assuming I’d easily exchange it for a size down. Except they didn’t have a size down. And, so began one of the most painful 60+ minutes I’ve had in a really long time. I shouldn’t have let it get to me, but I’m human, and a girl, and I walked out, deflated, without a suit and gulping back tears. {being totally honest}.
Writing this a few hours later I’m pretty over the moment but seeing those suits simply not work for my bod was so frustrating. Anyone else have the same bathing suit frustrations and dread? Maybe it’s the crazy, unrealistic images of the women above that become more prevalent this time of year that add to it? It’s painful enough standing in that mirror and seeing everything, cellulite on the thighs, any muffin top but this time my top half that was the main issue. I’ve always said I’d love a slightly larger chest, if only to make myself more proportionate and end the always-complicated process of finding tops small enough for my chest in but breathable everywhere else, and that’s all I could think about during my near-tearfest earlier today. {Would I ever go through anything so drastic? I’m not sure yet!}. I’m not one to torment myself over my body, but man… bathing suits! argh! At the end of the day we have to be happy with ourselves in the suit so we can enjoy all the sun drenched days ahead of us. 
Anyway, I’m ready to rock on in the suits I already own and am excited to lounge, hike, relax and simply soak in some one-on-one with my guy. I’m also thrilled to detach from my email, instagram, facebook, twitter… err, life!, for a few days so look forward to connecting with you lovely ladies in a few days. Have an amazing weekend and thanks for stopping by!
For our last of four posts with TJ Maxx, we were tasked with pulling together a print-focused look for spring. Easy! My local store (on PGA Boulevard in Palm Beach Gardens) had so many options I might have come home with three dresses; I just couldn’t decide in-store. Ultimately, this won, possibly because it best matched this amazefest designer clutch/iPad holder I found so much less than retail. #win
During this experience with TJ Maxx, my main takeaway to share with you guys is realizing that I need to head to TJ’s, especially purses and jewelry. The purses are organized by color (love! love! love!) and the jewelry counter is stocked in an impressively major way. For whatever reason I honestly bypassed it before this experience and I totally missed out. Maybe glass case conjure up only 14K gold? Fancy negative. There’s everything, including designer brand jewelry. Who knew?! {ok, feel free to raise your hand!}.
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kate spade leopard case || infinity scarf (stunner!) || c. wonder eart key ring || gold dipped spoon set
it’s all good, by gwyneth paltrow (in my amazon wish list) || eye mask || DvF printed lips iPad case (also in black)
ann taylor woven floral statement necklace (love) || mirrored jewelry box || anthropologie bracelet || dogeared ‘love’ necklace (personal fav!)
While mama should be made to feel special every day, the message can get stuck under piles of laundry, dishes, dry cleaning, errands, grocery shopping… well, you get the idea. It all just needs to get done. Consider one of the above to light up your mom’s face (all but one are under $60!), and/or add to the day by really making her feel special with the best gift of all: time, experiences and memories! I’d be thrilled with any of the above (or truth: just a few minutes of quiet!).
A few special memorable ideas she’s sure to love:
go to a pottery or art class /// enjoy a fun dinner or dessert for two over chocolate fondue // see a show, or take her to a museum // go for tea at a cute little cottage in town you’ve been eyeing for ages // get the family together for bowling // take a cooking class // handle her chores // mani, pedi time // get a day pass to a local country club or hotel for a little staycation // cook her favorite meal
