Choke Hold

Let's have some fun with an unexpected trend that is making quite a return: the choker necklace. Who knew? I like this trend because it offers a nice variation to the big bauble and statement pieces that we know and love.

J Crew, Shaped Choker, $98

This sculptural beauty is on my Christmas list. 

BaubleBar, Gemini Pearl Choker, $36

These asymmetric pearls are so not your gramma's pearls. I love the mix of gold with gray.

Lord and Taylor, House of Harlow Herringbone Double Choker, $88

Leave it to Nicole Richie to create this beauty. A bold herringbone pattern is perfect.

Topshop, Draped Stone Choker, $28

Teeny tiny stones give this necklace such detail for such a low price. The draping make this almost victorian looking.

So mix up your collar and statement necklaces with these chokers. They offer a bold but cool look that is pretty effortless.

Be fabulous today!

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Look into the Crystal Ball

It's humpday, let's look at something shiny, something blingy. Let's look at some crystals. I love a crystal jewelry option because it's affordable but packs a punch.

Modcloth, Sparkling Speech Necklace, $29

A statement piece but with a delicate chain.

Stella and Dot, Urbane Bracelet, $34

How about something pretty but with a ball and chain twist?

J Crew, Crystal Feather Earrings, $38 (extra 25% with code SHOPFALL)

I love the shape of these earrings. They remind me of an ear cuff but so much more delicate.

BaubleBar, Crystal Mason Ring, $28

Sculptural but not heavy. A great combination for this conversation starter of a ring.

Crystal accessories make a big impact but because they're not a precious stone, they're easy on your wallet. For crystal bracelets, you can also layer on some colorful leather or fabric bracelets to the arm party.

Be fabulous today!

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All In: Falling for Brunch

Happy Monday lovebugs,
The first Friday of the month was a holiday so today we're going to go All In for a September brunch. Not blazing hot weather, but still bare legs and happiness.

This easy shirt dress has an adorable micro-heart pattern and I had to use these saturated grape flats because they're finally on sale. Grab a sturdy cross body and delicate charm necklace (actually J Crew girls department) and you're set.

Dress/Bow flats/Crossbody bag/Charm necklace

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Birds of a Feather

For some reason last week's fish post was a big hit. I'm thrilled.  I thought we would do something similar today and take flight. Let's look at some winged jewelry.

J Crew, Twin Birds Necklace, $58

This is a dramatic yet delicate piece that I would pair with white lace. 

Kate Spade, For the Birds Toucan Bangle, $88 $62

How about this bangle for a colorful arm party with a maxi dress. And it's on sale.

Dorothy Perkins, Cut-out bird pendant, $11

This pendant looks glittery but it's actually the way the silver is layered. Perfect for jeans and a tee.

Forever 21, Quirky Bird Pendant Necklace, $5

Not feeling the Kate Spade price tag? How about a five buck price point for this colorful necklace?

I love mixing in fun and unexpected pieces into my jewelry rotation. Fish, birds, flowers, have some fun with it.

Be fabulous today!

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Short and Sweet

We haven't talked shorts in some time, which is odd because it's prime shorts season. I thought we would go back to some fun basics and look at cotton print shorts. A go to piece in your drawer that is machine washable, graphic, and weekend ready.

Ann Taylor, Rope Print Shorts, $59

Small print, color block and belt loops to add a contrasting white rope belt. 

Nordstrom, Hinge Print Stretch Cotton Shorts, $58

A cute geo print with just the touch of stretch that you are grateful for after a summer BBQ.

White House Black Market, Floral Printed Short, $29

A great price for a really versatile short. You can easily dress this up with a pink silk top or go casual with a simple tee.

J Crew, Hibiscus Floral Short, $69

And speaking of floral, how about this colorful option that is ready for heeled sandals or a linen tunic.

A simple pair of cotton shorts will be a life saver for you this summer. They work with so many things in your closet and they won't break the bank.

Be fabulous today!

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Ikat Got Your Tongue

We've made it to humpday of a week of prints. Monday we did chevron and yesterday was paisley. Today let's have some fun with ikat.

C Wonder, Paisley Ikat Georgette Halter Top, $98

This is such a beautiful top. Great colors and a jeweled neckline.

Lands End, Ikat Triangle Scarf, $18

A triangle scarf is such a versatile one because you can tie it in so many ways. I love the tassel detail on this.

Macy's, American Rag Spaghetti Strap Ikat Jumpsuit, $34

If you're feeling adventurous, this jumpsuit is just stunning. And for under 40 bucks, it's also a steal.

J Crew, Popover in Watercolor Ikat, $89

There's not much better in life than a beautiful cotton top. This is versatile, it's machine washable and it's a beauty.

Ikat is always a fun print no matter what season it is. It's a pattern that hasn't been corrupted and labeled as preppy or goth, it is what it is.

Be fabulous today!

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Flat Out Adorable

To some people summer means flip flops, to others it means white dresses, and to some it's all about the espadrilles. Today we're looking at some fantastic flat espadrille options that are colorful and great for summer.

Bluefly, Bon Marche Espadrilles Mandarine, $48

I mean hello? Abstract stripes in a killer combo. And under $50.

J Crew, Canvas Espadrilles, $50  now $29.99 with code HISUMMER

Yes, you read that correctly. J Crew shoes for $50. And in a highlighter poppy color. Gorgeous.

Nordstrom, House of Harlow Kat Espadrille, $72

Leave it to Nicole Richey to take the espadrille to a whole new level. Studding, embroidery, metallic. Amazing.

Free People, Canyon Espadrille, $78

What if you just want a go to, neutral? These suede beauties will do just the trick.

I love a flat espadrille for summer because they're casual and comfortable and I can wear them knowing 9 out of my 10 toes have chipped polish.

Be fabulous today!

Reader Request: Linen Love

Today's post is for one of my dearest friends, Marisa. She will be traveling to Tanzania for too long (sorry, I'm biased) to change the world with a fantastic organization. One thing you should know about Marisa is that even in Africa, she rocks it. Maxi dresses, headbands, you name it. Today she's asked me to pull some linen button down options for her. I think these will fit the bill for her newest adventure and these options will work for us just as well.

J Crew, Perfect Linen Shirt, $79 and an extra 30% with code SWEET.

I love this emerald color and it comes in a handful of other options. Take advantage of this promo code!

Madewell, Boyshirt in Suntour, $49

Another on sale option that has a great pattern without screaming 'farmer'.

Lord and Taylor, Button Front Linen Shirt, $29

A great chambray option, just please don't button it up all of the way.

Express, Two Pocket Linen Shirt, $24

I love this open neck option and the blush color is a great alternative to white.

Linen is a fantastic option for summer because it is the most breathable material you will find for those hot summer days. Dress up this loose fabric with some bling for work.

Be fabulous today!

Back to Black

We're getting basic today. Going way back to a staple. The black belt. Sometimes you just need to invest in a solid accessory and today it's the belt.

Madewell, Leather Belt, $48

Simple, classic, rounded buckle in an unassuming brass.

Everlane, The High Lo Belt, $40

Made in San Francisco, this modern style is made from soft Italian leather making it last a lifetime.

J Crew, Patent Narrow Buckle Belt, $34

A nice narrow option that you can add to a shift dress or over a cardigan to define your waist.

Cole Haan, Village Skinny Belt, $48

Cole Haan is known for making great leather pieces. From their shoes to their bags, this belt is no exception.

Sometimes you have to get back to basics. Invest in a solid black belt that is versatile, good quality and easy to add to any outfit.

Be fabulous today!

On the Road Again

It's one of the biggest travel weeks of the year and to celebrate, today's post will be the ultimate road trip outfit. The key is comfy, layers, and comfy.

Target, Graphic Sweatshirt, $19

A simple and sweet sweatshirt is perfect for comfort and style.

Forever 21, Fresh Plaid Shirt, $19

Its all about the layers in the car because you know dad is going to be blasting the A/C.

Gap, 1969 legging jean, $69

Is it a legging? But it looks like a jean! I know, and they're perfect.

J Crew, Piped Suede Ballet Flat, $69

A simple ballet flat is perfect for the road and these suede beauties come in a variety of colors, all on sale.

Asos, Pieces Frigga Leopard Print Weekend Bag, $81

And last but not least a 'throw it all in, yes even that bottle of wine' bag.

In the past we've covered airport travel outfits, but for me a car is a more comfortable ride with good music, good conversation, and more friends and family to greet you at the end of the trip.

Be fabulous today!

Chi-don't you know?

One of my favorite styles of pant is the chino. It's clean and simple, easy to care for and you can wear it with anything. Let's look at some good standards to add to your wardrobe.

Lands End Canvas, True Slim Chino, $59

You really can't beat the price with such a vibrant color. 

Loft, Girlfriend Chino, $59

A gf chino? It's got the relaxed leg but more fitted through the hip. 

J Crew, Waverly Chino, $79

A good standard from J Crew, they do the chino very well.

Gap, Broken in straight khakis, $49

These come in a rainbow of colors but I'm loving the oxblood.

Machine washable, plenty of colors, and plenty of styles. The chino is a great investment piece that won't break the bank.

Be fabulous today!

All in: Beach Ready

Hey there lovebugs,
Happy Monday to you. It's the first Monday of the month which means it's all in day. It's when I put together an entire outfit for under $100. Since it's August, I thought I would try to squeeze in a teeny bit of beach before the summer is over. Here's beach ready for under $100.

Top/Bottom/Fedora/Sandals/Tote/Sunglasses/Sunscreen

Be fabulous today!

Pouch Perfect

How about a throw everything in bag? How about a classy but easy leather pouch? How about a monogram, or a metallic, or just a simple pastel?

J Crew, Leather Colorblock Pouch, $49

Let's start with the monogram. J Crew does it so well and this lemon clutch is no exception.

Rib & Hull, Violet XL Oversized Pouch, $85

Extra large, extra impact.

Rebecca Minkoff, Pale Coral Leather Message Lissa Wristlet, $59

Originally $95, this pretty pastel is perfect for day or night.

Last Call Neiman Marcus, BCBGMAXAZRIA Carina Leather Foldover, $59

This lime green is so much fun with a great manicure. 

A simple carryall is great for summer nights. Throw it all in and then some. Even a pair of flats. 

Be fabulous today!