July 13, 2015

Santa Monica, CA

Life at the beach is like one long vacation. While it’s a quick commute to my busy work world, this sleepy town is definitely becoming my new oasis.

Refreshing and calm, ocean air and big beach waves have a way of reminding us that the world is so much bigger and more beautiful than we often remember. I love the constant reminder.

Between afternoon bike rides and naps in the sand, it’s an easy place to find happiness. Yesterday, I met up with a big group of neighbors and friends and we walked along Palisades Park to an outdoor brunch spot on Main Street. I chose to wear this comfy striped maxi from Forever 21 with a sunhat, tribal necklace and my new Lauren Hope bracelet. I love mixing standout jewelry pieces with a more basic canvas. It allows for the accessories to really shine. Because I knew we were going to be doing a bit of walking, I wore my comfy Kayla Sandals from Restricted Shoes. Perfect for an afternoon stroll, they pair well with just about everything in my summer wardrobe, adding a sunny burst of color to today’s look.

Oh and don’t forget! Restricted Shoes is offering you guys 25% off sitewide for all full-priced items. Just use the code WK25. Valid through July 31.

Hope you guys have a great Monday!

Sandals: c/o Restricted Shoes

Striped Maxi Dress: Forever 21

Necklace: BaubleBar (Similar)

Bracelet: c/o Lauren Hope via Rocksbox

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August 6, 2014

Venice Beach, CA.

Anyone who has spent time vacationing in Los Angeles has likely made a visit to the famous Venice Beach. Whether grabbing dinner at one of the trendy new spots on Abbot Kinney, bar hopping on Main Street, renting bicycles to cruise along the ocean, or simply heading over to check out the freaky (but mostly awesome) dancers, musclemen, and eclectic bunch of characters that camp out along the boardwalk, the overall vibe is the same. Venice brings out the carefree, laid back spirit in just about everyone-myself included. That means that whenever I have the chance to get myself over there I take it!

This past weekend, not one but two of my friends celebrated their birthday in the Venice area and so it was a perfect excuse to make the twenty minute trek over to the simple beach town. Day or night, no one ever gets too dressed up in Venice and so even if you’re worried that your beach plans might carryon into nighttime escapades, you’re pretty much covered as long as you’re wearing anything over your bathing suit.

I embraced the scene and wore a strappy lace halter maxi dress from Forever21. While it proved to be as comfortable as a nightgown, the detail and the tie up the back also made me feel quite lovely. If you’ve kept up with me for a bit, you know that there is nothing I love more than summer and so there’s also nothing I love more than a dress that reminds me of just how summery it at this very moment. Perfect for a summer getaway or simply a dinner out on the beach with your man, this dress will impress.

I paired my Venice-worthy dress with jewelry from a local Southern California boutique, Aplaya. I love working with local shops and businesses and Aplaya certainly captures the essence of the California coast, handcrafting each piece from REAL seashells! There are too many beautiful (AND INCREDIBLY AFFORDABLE) pieces to select from but if you haven’t had the chance, head over and check them out! I mean, this necklace was $12… does it get much better?

I think not!