Uncategorized Archives - Page 115 of 156

Classic Summer Staples

May 15, 2019

NYC, Style Blogger, Talbots, Navy Dress, Preppy, Classic, Summer

Dress (c/o) || Wedges || Handbag (c/o) || Necklace || Watch || Bracelet || Jean Jacket || Earrings

There is just nothing quite as rewarding as finding a new staple dress. I’m talking about the kind of dress you want to wear everyday, that works for every occassion, and is insanely flattering. I’m always on the lookout for a new piece that checks off all of the boxes and I think I found it at Talbots! I’ve had the pleasure of working with this company several times, like here to share a work dress that is still one of my favorites, and was so flattered when they sent me this sweet navy midi dress and bamboo handled handbag.

This dress got me thinking a lot about the different staples I have for summer. It’s by far my favorite season and I would have it year round if I could. That’s the Floridian talking, but being from the Sunshine State definietly worked for me. It’s funny because so many of my seasonal must-haves happened to wind up right in this blog post. I’m always dressing for the season that I want and this outfit is no exception! Here’s a complete low-down on my picks.

Lightweight Midi Dress: Okay, I already told you how much I love this dress, which comes in two other colors, but any breezy sundress will do. It’s a perfect way to transition from spring to summer and helps you look put together even on the hottest of days.

Bamboo Handle Bag: A bamboo-handle handbag has been on my shopping list for the better part of a year, but I had to find one that had the style, quality, and price point that I was looking for. This Talbots pick is absolutely perfect! It even doubles as a crossbody bag for the girl on the go. The soft, tan leather goes with just about everything plus the bag is roomy enough to carry all of your odds and ends.

Espadrille Wedges: Nothing says summer vacation like slipping on a pair of espadrilles. Whether they’re flats, wedges, or sandals, I love them all! It also helps that the rope footbed is extremely comfortable and can mold perfectly to your feet. Personally, my entire espadrille collection is from Soludos, but I’ve heard amazing things about Castaner and may have to grab a pair to try for myself.

Denim Jacket: Even in the summer time, I swear that keeping a casual denim jacket handy is a life-saver. It’s a great piece to help win the constant battle with AC that sometimes leaves me frozen. Any shade or color will do, but if you’re looking for something unique, I love this eyelet pick from Talbots too.

In other news, one trend that has been all over Instagram is the pearl barrette. Truth be told, I absolutely love it! I think they are the sweetest accent to add to your everyday outfit, but don’t see myself wearing it personally. I know a lot of people have mixed reviewed on the bold barrette, but I found a middle ground. These little bobby pins from Bauble Bar aren’t as in-your-face as the trendy barrettes, but still make a little statement. They keep my hair back on a breezy NYC day and give a little something extra to an outfit full of staples.

Love from NYC,
Katie

The Return of the Hawaiian Shirt

May 13, 2019

NYC, Style Blogger, New York City, Anthropologie, Hawaiian Shirt, Casual Style

Shirt || Jeans || Sandals || Crossbody || Sunglasses || Belt

But in all seriousness, did they really go anywhere? My dad has been wearing these almost daily for as long as I can remember. Hawaiian print shirts (AKA Aloha shirts) have strangely bonded my dad and I over the years. For every birthday, Christmas, and Father’s Day, I would try and find the perfect addition to his collection, the louder the better. That normally meant scouring local thrift stores, but when you live in Florida, there’s always a constant supply. I’d splurge on really special shirts and one year in high school, I even made one for him in sewing class.

I guess you can say that a propensity to Hawaiian shirts is in my DNA. Sooner or later, I was bound to start wearing them eventually. When I in elementary school, I distinctly remembering a pair of orange, hawaiian printed capris being my pride and joy! I brought this top from Anthropologie with me to New Orleans and the mason jar print made it perfect to wear around in the Crescent City. Even when I wore it out and about in NYC, I still received oodles of compliments. It really makes quite an impression. This shirt is amazingly soft and surprisingly flattering for an oversized button-down.

I think the secret to pulling of a loud, printed shirt is one of two things. First, you should keep the rest of your outfit relatively netural and simple, so you don’t compete with the fun pattern. These medium wash jeans from Old Navy and gold Jack Rogers did just the trick. Next, definietly don’t take yourself too seriously! Wearing hawaiian shirts isn’t for the faint of heart and requires a laidback spirit to match.

The real reason I’m bringing up Hawaiian print shirts is because I’m been seeing them everywhere! So many brands and designers have been releasing button-down shirts that are loud, fun, and effortless. This shirt, from TopShop, is such a classic, and this pick from Old Navy, has an amazing price point. Maybe they’re an upcoming trend for Summer 2019, but I hope they are here to stay. Shout out to my dad for being such a trend setter, so early on. To see all of my favorites, be sure to shop below.

Love from NYC,
Katie

What to Know About New Orleans

May 8, 2019

Style Blogger, NOLA, New Orleans, French Quarter, Louisiana, Southern Style, Lilly Pulitzer, Tuckernuck, Travel

Dress (also) || Wedges || Clutch || Earrings || Bracelet

Tennessee Williams, writer of Streetcar Named Desire, once said that “America only has three cities: New York, San Francisco, and New Orleans.” I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know two of these cities pretty well, but have yet to visit the City by the Bay. I always think about this quote whenever I visit New Orleans and how true those words are. Just like any great city, NOLA has a lot of quirks and a set of tips that can help you have the best time possible. Here are a few that I’ve picked up along the way on my many visits.

Come hungry and without a diet. If you are coming to New Orleans, let yourself eat! Local cuisine is rich, flavorful, and can be very carb heavy. Sticking to the same kind of diet you would have at home could be the biggest regret of your life! Cut loose and stuff yourself with all the jambalaya, gumbo, and po-boys your body can muster. Everyone has their own specific favorites and I will share mine on Friday’s blog post. Be sure to check back then!
Make some reservations. New Orleans has its fair share of culinary institutions and each is more delicious than the last. Some of them, like Willie Mae’s Scotch House, require a line around the corner to munch on their world-class fried chicken. Others, like Brennan’s, require a reservation weeks in advance thanks to their several accolades. You will find great food on both ends of the spectrum, just be sure to plan ahead!
Grab your favorite drink to go. This may be one of my favorite little features of the city and I wish more would follow suit. Instead of feeling the need to chug your drink and hop along to the next spot, bringing an alcoholic beverage for the road is perfectly legal in the city. Some bars, like the Hermes Bar, have cups that make great little souvenirs. How many can you collect? It should be noted though, to-go cups are not carte blanche for acting like a drunken fool. Enjoy responsibly.

Please stay hydrated. Since I’m on the subject of drinking, don’t forget to actually drink water! The sun, the heat, and the humidity can all be very intense, especially in the summer. The rule of thumb I always try to follow is to have one full glass of water between each cocktail. It’s okay, the city won’t run dry of Hurricanes from Pat O’Briens in the meantime. I’ve seen way too many people crash too hard, too soon all because they forgot to stay hydrated.
Have your fun in the French Quarter. I know there are a lot of travelers out there who want to stay away from what’s touristy and visit what they think is more ‘authentic’. I have to admit, I’m one of those people. That being said, if it’s your first time in the city, let yourself enjoy the French Quarter and even Bourbon Street. It’s fun! At the end of the day, that’s what this city, and vacation in general, are all about.
Don’t forget to visit the rest of the city. This city just has so much to offer. Hop on the streetcar and see where the day takes you. The Central Business District is home to the best rooftop bars and is the place to watch the Saints play. Meanwhile, the Garden District has enviously gorgeous mansions and fabulous shopping along Magazine Street. Marigny-Bywater is where you will find the music and the colorful shotgun houses that both make this city so unique.

Find some live music. It’s not one-size-fits-all when it comes to music. So many types call this city home. The most obvious of which, Jazz, even has multiple variations. Music is everything to this city, it seems to follow you everywhere. And yes, sometimes it actually does with the Second Line. To give yourself a musical night you will never forget, Frenchman Street is a great place to start. From there, many shows spread by word of mouth.
Use common sense, especially at night. This is probably one of my tips for every city that I visit. Unfortunately, especially when drinking is involved, people look to find easy targets for scams or theft. Stick to the main routes, stay in a group, and if you’re not sure of your surroundings, always hail an Uber. Of the dozens of times I’ve visited, I’ve never once felt unsafe and that’s because I don’t let myself go to far and I’m aware of my surroundings. In short, just don’t be naive and use your head.
Be yourself! Everyone has their place in this city! I don’t know if there’s a more welcoming group of people out there than those who call this city home. Don’t feel the need to put on airs because you will be welcomed no matter what. Stay respectful, stay curious, stay open-minded and this city will accept you.

When I made my first visit, years ago, I honestly had no idea how much of a hold it would have on me. It could be the music, the food, the architecture, the people, or a combination of all. The culture of this city will bring you back for more. If you have any questions about my trips, be sure to reach you and I will help out in anyway I can.

Love from NYC,
Katie