'murica.

Hey gang, just dropping by to wish everyone a happy Fourth and to share my patriotic #OOTD. I may or may not have also missed blogging just a smidge ;)

Honestly, it really doesn't get any more patriotic than a set of Breton stripes (hello, Madewell x Sézane), amirite? Throw in some vintage Levi's (thrifted at Awoke Vintage) for a lewk that screams US of A. Not photographed are my Cult Gaia Lilleth bag and Comme des Garçons PLAY x Converse high-tops (just snagged the OG ones, natch).  

I really would hate to jinx it, but fingers crossed that I'll be able to get back to blogging regularly soon.

till next time

xo,

A

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just. another. holiday. gift. guide. (*wink*)

...and so it begins. I'm probably in the minority when I say that I much prefer the 24 days leading up to Christmas than the actual day itself. From Small Business Saturday onward, I find myself immersed in all things holiday. From shopping for stocking stuffers to decorating cookies to fastening velvet bows in my hair for that extra zhoosh factor, I'm like the holiday version of the Energizer Bunny. I just keep going… and going… and going.
 
Whether you're shopping for yourself, a suitemate, a co-worker, your BFF or stylish sis, I've got you covered with 12 pretty rad gift options for everyone on your list. Think of it as a subtle wink-wink-nudge-nudge to ensure that you get exactly what you want this holiday season. Happy shopping ;)

1. Esplar Low Sneakers in Embroidered Stars (Madewell x Veja) // Seeing stars is an understatement. These party-ready celestial-inspired sneakers from Veja are simply a must — whether you intend on channeling your inner Zenon, Girl of the 21st Century or not.

2. Half Zip Wallet (Clare Vivier) // Gift the Parisian in your life one of Clare Vivier's signature half-zip wallets. Um, but seriously, how cute is that blush interior?

3. Ice Cream Cone Ornament (Biscuit) // How about a keepsake ice cream cone ornament for your kid sister with a sweet tooth?

4. Seth + Summer Sweatshirt (Tictail) // A Seth + Summer sweatshirt does exist, as does a Blair + Chuck and Carrie + Mr. Big pullover. And they said love was dead.

5. Mini Kit Zip Satchel in Sweet Lilac (OAD New York) // Treat yo'self to one of OAD New York's functional + commuter-friendly satchels. This one's designed to fit a Moleskine notebook, a spare pair of flats, your metro card — you name it. I just may be smitten with the sweet lilac hue.

6. The Pointe (Margaux) // Are these pretty tartan ballerinas from Margaux < on point > or what?

7. Candy Stripe Anklet (Hansel from Basel) // Wah, these festive candy stripe anklet socks are ho-ho-holiday ready in every possible way. C'mon, peep that lil' scalloped trim!

8. Lovecats Ring (Catbird) // Perfect for stacking or wearable on its own, Catbird's dainty lovecats ring 10/10 gets my vote. I have one and can attest that it's the cat's meow (sorry, had to).

9. Snow Bunny Kit (Pinch Provisions) // When you're in a pinch at the ski slopes (or après-ski), allow this snow bunny kit to come to the rescue with everything from a mini ice scraper to cuticle oil.

10. Lip Tint (French Girl Organics) // For the girl who keeps a chapstick in every purse (lol, we all have that one friend), you can't go wrong with a tinted lip balm. I'm new to French Girl, but when even Madewell's carrying their line, it must be worth the hype.

11. Leather Bow Hair Ties (J.Crew) // Cue the happy dance, 'cuz bows are back. Trust me: All your ponytails and topknots will thank you.
 
12. Fred & Friends Desk Donut (Ban.do) // Donut tell me your cubicle buddy doesn't need this sprinkle-topped push pin holder sitting pretty on their desk.

What's on your holiday wish list? Comment below!

xo,
A

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september. the. list.

Anddddd, I'm back! Apologies for the unannounced blog hiatus (yes, againnnnn), but my return to the blogging sphere couldn't have come at a better time. While I'm not one to worship the arrival of fall (full-fledged summer girl, right here), I am partial to transitional statement pieces that double for the nippy mornings and balmy afternoons that often characterize September/October. Be it a ceaselessly chic denim topper or a pair of lust-worthy calf-hair ballerinas, I'm rounding up a few autumnal staples in the latest installment of "the list." Happy shopping :)

Rigid Re-Release Denim Jacket (FRAME) // Meet the new fall layering piece that you'll inevitably reach for every. single. day. FRAME gleans inspiration from the '80s with their rugged denim jacket (size up for a more borrowed-from-the-boys fit) that's about to be the highlight of your fall wardrobe. 

The Minimalist Rose Gold/Mocha (Linjer) // Aspire to do less with one of Linjer's streamlined timepieces with menswear undertones. The interchangeable straps (pick your color and size) make customizing your look a cinch.

Striped Knitted Sweater (Madewell) // "Madewell, take all my money…" Says me as I peruse J.Crew's cooler sister brand's new arrivals section every month. I don't know about you, but I'm v partial to Alexa Chung-esque stripes — even better when they're as fuss-free as this quirky knit.  

Double-Strap Flats in Leopard Calf Hair (J.Crew) // Leopard print's a neutral, you say? Groundbreaking. As far as sartorial no-brainers go, these double-strap flats will 10/10 rack up the compliments during your morning commute. Do the rolled-up boyfriend jeans thang or reintroduce your favorite wool mini skirt into the mix for preppy fall perfection.

Everyday Sunglasses Enamel Pin (Rifle Paper Co.) // Swoon… millennial pink is officially sticking around for fall and I'm not even mad about it. Fasten this glam pin onto a denim jacket or tote for no shortage of sass.

Everyday Alligator Enamel Pin (Rifle Paper Co.) // Cool girl flair in the form of a sneaky alligatah pin… that's what I'm here for. 

Crinkled Hologram Nano Tie Crossbody (KARA) // I'm not even kidding one bit with the Zenon, Girl of the 21st Century reference (hello, celestial vibes). This holographic crossbody bag is for rad girls looking for that extra zhoosh factor.
 
Marigold With Lips Sweatshirt (Clare Vivier) // Touchdown! Peep the quintessential marigold sweatshirt that's game for all your upcoming fall tailgates and apple-picking adventures.

What are your go-to transitional pieces for fall? Comment below!

xo,
A

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madewell’s. fall ‘17. lookbook.

Just as a disclaimer: I am under no circumstances ready for fall weather. Not by a longshot. In fact, the noticeably cooler temps this week have served as a reminder that I’m a full-time summer girl through and through. #TeamIceCream

That said, Madwell’s fall/winter ‘17 lookbook was too g-dang good not to share. There were three looks in particular that stuck out to me (AKA, that I would buy and proceed to wear in a heartbeat if I had the unlimited funds to do so). Peep ‘em below and let me know which outfits (see full preview here) have you feeling all weak in the knees. I digress.

If there’s one thing that I love about fall, it’s a good chunky knit sweater. Amirite or amirite?! Truth be told, my ideal late-summer, pre-fall uniform would look a little somethin' somethin' like this — give or take some ankle boots or pretty ballerinas. While the making faces pullover sweater and accompanying flouncy polka dot skirt err on the romantic-femme side, it’s the oversized black jean jacket that lends just the right amount of tough-girl edge to an otherwise sophisticated look. 

Ooh-la-la is right. And here we have the perfect juxtaposition between Parisian It-girl and sleek modernist. From the making faces tiered dress to the perfect khaki trench and Tretorn sneakers, I low-key want it all. The addition of a streamlined black purse and menswear-inspired trousers socks further confirms my love for unconventional styling.

Cue the heart eyes: This millennial pink raincoat from Stutterheim (also available in navy!) is e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g. I recently discovered the Swedish brand through Instagram, so it seems quite fitting that Madewell is now carrying their Mosebacke Raincoat. I imagine that I would reach for it rain or shine, on-duty or off. And can we please talk about those cognac-hued Chelsea boots masterfully styled alongside striped socks (take note of how they peek out just a smidge)? WANT. NEED. For the sake of my wallet, it’s a good thing fall’s not here yet. 

Also, side note: Are band-aids the new accessory du jour or did this model actually take a tumble?

Side note #2: I was at the Bloomingdale's in SoHo last week and had the chance to try on a Stutterheim jacket (see low-quality pic of me slouching above), and let’s just say it was love at first sight. As far as sizing goes, I noticed that it seemed to run a bit large (the x-small or xx-small would probs be my ideal fit). Not sure if the sizing of the Stutterheim raincoats at Madewell are TTS or not, but thought I’d share.

Are you obsessed with Madewell’s F/W ‘17 collection? Comment below!

xo,

A

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me. my. poncho. and. i.

As you can probably surmise from the title of this post, a certain knit poncho will be taking center stage. If I ever attend a music festival (slim chance unless it's Glastonbury), then you best believe I'll be wearing some variation of this ensemble.
 
Initially, I bought this fringed knit poncho (still available and on sale!) for winter, only to realize that I prefer it so much more when styled for spring (see ya never turtlenecks and bulky layers!). Teamed alongside a simple white tee, a denim skirt and suede ankle boots, the result was something along the lines of rodeo-ready — and I do mean that in the best possible way.
 
Particularly groundbreaking ensemble? No, not by a long shot. But for this classic prepster who swears by a uniform consisting of waxed field jackets (or Barbour) and Keds sneaks on the regular, this is as boho-chic as it gets.
 
While this outfit may not be suitable for the most balmy spring days, it's perfect for moderately warm weeks when the temps are nippy in the morning and a perfect 70 degrees (insert praise hands emoji) come recess — AKA, fun in the sun time. As for additional ways to get the most wear out of your favorite knit ponchos (and wraps for that matter)? Try teaming 'em with denim boyfriend shorts, high-waisted mom jeans or denim button-front skirts for instant festival flair.

knit poncho (on sale) | white tee (similar) | denim skirt | suede ankle boots (similar)

Do you own a knit poncho? What are your spring wardrobe essentials? Comment below!

xo,
A

5

the. short. list. // frayed. hem. jeans.

Step aside, patchwork jeans! Frayed (or raw hem) jeans are currently the cool girl-approved denim trend of the moment. And for good reason. Not only do they give off a ceaselessly chic vibe when teamed alongside backless mules or vampy steppers, but they lend a little extra somethin' somethin' to even the most casual ensembles. (Never has a plain white tee looked so — wait for it — groundbreaking. But actually.)

While I typically consider myself a traditionalist when it comes to the denim game (alright, there was that one time I fell victim to a certain pair of paint splatter jeans...), a perfectly distressed pair that I recently spotted at Madewell's denim bar made me a convert. My mother on the other hand was not as much of a fan (I wonder why?!?) Whether you're already on the raw hem jean bandwagon or are halfway there, I’ve rounded up a few pairs that are currently on my radar. Oh, and if you’re in need of inspo in the styling department, I’ve got you covered with 13 ways to master frayed hem jeans, according to Instagram. You’re welcome.

1. Capri Jeans in Black Hampton (Rag & Bone) // Contemporary, modern and oh-so flattering, these black raw-hemmed skinnies were made for the city girl with a downtown edge. Chelsea boots and an off-duty topper are non-negotiable.

  

2. The Perfect Summer Jean in Malden Wash (Madewell) // Meet your new wear-everywhere jean that you’ll never want to take off. Not only will the high-rise ‘90s supermodel-inspired style (Madewell’s words, not mine) give you legs that go on for miles, but the slouchy fit and moderate distressing are guaranteed to please. Any takers?

  

3. Mid-Rise Capri in Debutante (J Brand) // You had me at millennial pink, AKA my favorite power hue of the season. The fact that the edges are frayed are just further confirmation that I need some blush pink jeans in my life. But don’t we all?

  

4. Destroyed Reagan Button Front Jean (Free People) // Flaunting just the right amount of distressing and a boho-chic button-front design, these bad boys are all set for an upcoming farmers’ market run or Sunday brunch. Bonus points: The cropped ankle length makes them ideal for pairing with sneakers (ahem, Chuck Taylors).

 

5. The Looker Ankle Fray Jeans (MOTHER) // It’s time to start rounding out your wardrobe of summer whites ahead of MDW (Memorial Day Weekend), starting with these stretchy white ankle fray jeans from MOTHER. While I’m not the biggest fan of white jeans (with the exception of Industry Standard’s Odettes, which fit like a dream BTW), these look pretty promising. Throw in some classic Breton stripes courtesy of Saint James and then we’re talkin’. 

6. Mimi Skinny Jeans (M.i.h Jeans) // I don’t know about you, but I’m digging the faded (almost to the point of being bleached) wash, the high-waisted fit and, of course, those frayed hems. When you need to be out the door in a flash, simply toss on a crew-neck sweatshirt and d’Orsay flats for the lewk of the season.
 
Yay or nay? Will you be investing in a pair of frayed hem jeans? Comment below!

xo,
A

1

toi. avec. moi.

Unfortunately, I missed my opportunity to learn French in high school. (I still regret it to this day, especially since I was stuck taking four g-l-o-r-i-o-u-s years of Spanish. No me gusta.) Fortunately, I DO have the somewhat recent-ish Madewell x Sezane capsule collection to fulfill my dreams of becoming a Parisian girl. As you can imagine, this playful striped tee was pretty much a no-brainer. Factor in the nautical stripes, the relaxed fit and the well-placed pocket (!), and you’ve got the quintessential French girl staple. 

I had to Google what the embroidery on the pocket translated to in English — ‘cuz you obvs can’t go around sporting an embroidered shirt not knowing the meaning behind it. Initially, it seemed as though the translation was “marry me,” but that just didn’t seem right. According to Madewell, it actually means “you with me.” Phew. That makes a lot more sense now knowing that Madewell and Sezane also designed a matching navy striped tee with the phrase “moi avec toi” (“me with you”). AKA, grab your BFF for a twinning look. 

And now onto the outfit deets. Although, I wore this particular ensemble when out and about on an unseasonably warm January day, it would be absolutely perfect for the weather that we’re having this week. It’s still winter, but boy does it feel like spring! I’m beginning to think that Punxsutawney Phil was wrong with his whole six-more-weeks-of-winter prediction. Not that I’m complaining or anything… To complement my favorite striped shirt of the moment, I opted for none other than my favorite denim skirt of the moment (also notably from Madewell and on repeat). With my shirt tucked in, the result was effortless and dialed down for the daytime. Last but not least, I accessorized with my go-to Cambridge Satchel bag, a pair of my beloved Bloch oxford flats and mirrored sunnies. I imagine this look working just as well with some rolled-up boyfriend jeans or white chino shorts come summer.

striped top | denim zip mini skirt | satchel bag | oxford flats (similar) | mirrored sunglasses

What are your must-have French girl staples? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,
A

4

put. a. pin. on. it.

I don’t know about you, but I’m currently obsessed with decorative pins. Not only do they add instant flair to a cardigan, a sweater, a denim jacket — you name it — but they’re the epitome of FUN. I know at first glance, they can seem a bit out there (um, hello, you’re sporting a taco emoji pin on your t-shirt), but the personalization part is key. Find the right pins (think: a cactus, a donut, your favorite emoji, whatever), then you can’t lose. See my first attempt above: I paired my favorite sassy girl emoji pin (AKA, info desk girl) with a teal cardigan for an extra playful touch. Now, I just need to invest in a denim jacket, so that I can take my current pin obsession to the next level. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite pins below — let me know your faves in the comments section! 

1. Lolli x Museum of Ice Cream Lapel Pin (Lolli) // A testament of your love for ice cream. Is it summer yet?

2. Little Arrow Heart Sunnies Pin (ban.do) // So. Much. Sass. How adorable would these red heart-shaped sunnies look pinned to a cardigan (or the lapel of a herringbone blazer) come Valentine’s Day? 

3. Logo G-Pin (Glossier) // Glossier babes unite with this logo G pin that’s in millennial pink, no less. Do one even better by teaming it with your signature Glossier sweatshirt.

4. I Believe in Pizza Pin (ban.do) // Because pizza is bae. Duh.

5. Valley Cruise Press Ice Pop Pin (Urban Outfitters) // It’s bomb pop o’clock. Cue the firecrackers and RWB this Fourth of July.

6. Vintage Gator Pin (Valley Cruise Press) // Equal parts retro and preppy, this green gator pin practically calls for a relaxed polo, a vintage cricket sweater and some rolled-up chinos. Any takers?

7. Pink Lemonade Pin (Big Bud Press) // When life gives you lemons, you make pink lemonade. For double (or rather triple) the punch, mix and match with Big Bud Press’ lemon and lime pins.

8. Cherries Lapel Pin (Georgia Perry) // A cheeky addition to your borrowed-from-the-boys denim jacket or even the collar of a crisp white button-down shirt.

9. Madewell x Pintrill Pin Set (Madewell) // True denim connoisseurs will flock to this exclusive Madewell x Pintrill pin set consisting of an evil eye, jeans and a palm tree. Use all three to deck out a denim jacket, a tote or perhaps your favorite boyfriend jeans.

10. Neon Rocket Ship Pin (AMYVENTURES) // Up, up and away! Signifying a sense of adventure, dreaming big and positive vibes, this neon rocket ship pin is proof that the sky’s the limit. (Literally!)

How will you be customizing your denim and accessories this season? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,
A

0

pockets? yes, please.

 

 

I hope everyone had a wonderful and restorative Thanksgiving! My family and I kept things very low-key (just the way I like it), and I’m currently gearing up for Small Business Saturday.

As I foreshadowed in my previous #OOTD post, the tights have finally come out. With temps officially in the 40s and 50s, it’s simply too chilly to walk around with bare legs! That said, I do like how my noir tights look teamed with this lovely floral print dress by For Love & Lemons (from a collaboration they did with Urban Outfitters last year). Just FYI: If you’re new to For Love & Lemons, they’re an LA-based brand known for super pretty embroidered and lace pieces with boho appeal.

When I’m not layering sweaters with button-downs, one of my go-to outfit combos is to style a long-sleeved dress with an oversized cardigan (this gray one from Madewell has been on repeat lately). Bonus points, ‘cause it even has pockets! Throw in my beloved Chelsea boots (Gap, last fall), a classic Kate Spade bag and I’m all set for a day spent shopping on the downtown mall. While this look definitely has an autumnal vibe to it, I think it’ll work just as well for winter — give or take, a heavy wool topper and riding boots.

If you’re looking to get in your For Love & Lemons fix, I’ve rounded up a few of my fave picks below:

What are you loving from For Love & Lemons? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,
A

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august. outfits.

Channeling those summatime vibes.

“I blinked, and then all of a sudden it was September.” Story of my life. I can’t believe that it’s already Labor Day weekend — where did summer go?! I fully intend on making the most out of these few remaining weeks before fall weather officially kicks in. For now, I’m sharing my favorite outfits from August (which also just so happen to be all the looks I wore in NYC). Speaking of which, I hope to have a recap of my trip up sometime next week. Fingers crossed!

Day 1: I opted for a super casual, laid-back look since I knew I’d be traveling by train for a good bit of the day (and you just never know how chilly it’s going to be!). I styled my favorite Industry Standard jeans with a lipstick print top and d’Orsay flats for a low-key evening spent at the New Museum.

Day 2: Doesn’t this outfit just scream summer in the city?! I wore this sophisticated look for an afternoon spent shopping in the Flatiron District (one of my favorite areas in NYC!) and participating in First Fridays (I stopped by the Neue Galerie and the Morgan Library & Museum). My ruffled top is by YSTR, the skirt is Scotch & Soda and the sandals are from Madewell.

Day 3: Reasons why I love NYC: Mornings spent exploring SoHo and afternoons at the Whitney. Oh, and walking along The High Line afterwards! This easy-breezy tribal print dress from Duo proved to be perfect for the hot and humid weather we were having that day. I finished off my look with an old pair of Sam Edelman gold gladiators.

Day 4: We started the day out at the Cooper Hewitt (a very cool design museum on the Upper East Side) before venturing off to the Met and the Met Breuer. A trip to the Met rooftop always calls for a LBD — this time was no exception. My super cute heart necklace is from Ban.do., BTW.

Day 5: If only all Mondays could be as perfect as they are when in NYC. Since we had already hit the Upper East Side, SoHo, Flatiron and the Meatpacking district, the first half of our Monday was spent in lower Manhattan checking out the “Oculus” designed by Santiago Calatrava, which is located at the World Trade Center. I’ll talk more about that in my trip recap post, but the architecture was ah-maz-ing (definitely a look-up kind of moment). Anyway, shown here is a lovely floral Free People dress teamed with a seasonal lemonade I picked up from by Chloe.  



Day 6: I can’t explain it, but there’s something so iconic about a Lacoste polo. I’ve had mine for about five years now, and I still love finding different ways to style it. For a quick photo op outside the New York Public Library, I paired it with a metallic skort that I bought from J.Crew last summer. The result was modern preppy with a twist.

Are you sad to see summer go? How will you be transitioning your summer clothes for fall? Let me know in the comments below!

xo,
A

3

july. the. list.

Welp! We’re more than halfway through July and I’m not one bit happy about it. (Side note: Brace yourself for a summer ice cream/frozen treats bucket list, ‘cuz it’s coming to the blog later this week!) While fashion mags and websites are slowly beginning to introduce fall’s top trends, I’m all about those dog days of summer. Think: Breezy skirts, printed shorts and sandals for days. Here’s a snippet of a few things I’m currently coveting this month — enjoy!

1. Plaid Pleated Tank Top (Madewell) // Enter the perfect pleated top, featuring a swingy silhouette, that will keep you cool even on the hottest days of summer. You can style the plaid print with white skinny jeans, denim cutoffs or a cute mini skirt. Your move.  
2. Pintrill Emoji Pin (Madewell) // It’s official: I need to invest in a denim jacket just so that I have an excuse to pick up a few of these enamel emoji-inspired pins. I call dibs on the sprinkled donut, pizza and info desk girl.  
3. Multi-colored Sandals (H&M) // Too much color? No such thing. As far as budget-friendly sandals go, these rainbow lace-up stunners are everything. Not only will they lend major pep to your step, but the outfit possibilities are endless. 
4. Ivy Round Sunglasses (Henri Bendel) // Yes, I apparently do need to add yet another pair of sunnies to my collection. Equal parts sophisticated and glam, these round tortoiseshell shades won’t go unnoticed. I imagine them looking perf with a LBD or jeans and a button-down. 
5. Mini Sofia Crossbody (Rebecca Minkoff) // I’m low-key obsessed with this mini crossbody bag featuring playful tassels (!). Can you blame me? It just screams SUMMER. The compact size is perfect for the girl-on-the-go who wants to carry just the essentials when out and about.  
6. JM Drygoods Embroidered Vintage Jean Shorts (Madewell) // It’s hard to say if I would actually wear these vintage floral denim shorts IRL or not, but I love how they’re styled on Madewell’s website. Wear ‘em for an outdoor concert, the county fair or a weekend spent glamping.  
7. Striped Cotton-Jersey Mini Dress (Net-a-Porter) // OMG, how comfortable (and Parisian chic) does this striped t-shirt dress look? Toss it on alongside a crossbody bag and lace-up sandals for a daytime casual look or wear it with a denim jacket come after-hours.
8. Taking Flight Pelican Ring (Kate Spade) // Leave it to Kate Spade to design the most whimsical rings possible. Just think how cute this little pelican fella would look perched on your finger. Pssst: there's a matching bangle, pendant necklace and tote (my favorite!), too.

What are your summer must-haves? Leave a comment below!

xo,
A

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june. outfits.

The gang's all here. (From L to R: Madewell, J.Crew + Kate Spade.)

Is it just me or do the summer months always fly by the fastest?! I can’t believe June is officially in the books and that July 4th weekend has arrived. Thankfully, summer’s nowhere near over (in fact, summer technically just started two weeks ago!) and there’s still plenty of easy-breezy #OOTDs on the horizon. Today, I’m recapping some of my favorite looks from June — I even managed to style a few athleisure(ish)-inspired ensembles!

An oldie, but a goodie... Every girl needs a dress this twirl-worthy on standby.

My favorite bicycle shorts EVER. Period.

This neon coral top always lends a little extra "pop" to my outfits.

Chinos on repeat all summer long...

My idea of athleisure... When I snagged this gingham skort on sale at Gap last fall, I knew that it would be too cute for working out. Naturally, I did the next best thing by styling it with a striped tee, a versatile cross-body bag and leopard print slides.

My #kedsstyle.

A gingham top that can be styled a million and one ways...

What are your favorite summer outfit essentials? Leave a comment below!

xo,
A

4