Celebrate Independence Day in Red, White and Blue Style

Happy Birthday America!!  It’s that time again —  BBQ’s, parades and fireworks.  And let’s not forget the great Fourth of July inspired style.  But your red, white and blue doesn’t have to end July 4th.  Extend your patriotic threads with these stylish finds.  Whether you’re attending a backyard party or a late night date, these looks are perfect for whatever occasion.  I kept is comfy and cool because there’s no way I’m wearing layers in this Houston heat.  One step outdoors and you’re looking like you just got out of a swimming pool.  Yeah!  It’s that hot and humid!

I’m personally loving the little, white romper and it’s less than $30!!  Also loving the Free People red and white striped skirt.  At last check it was sold out, was on sale a day ago, but you can sign up for notifications when it comes back in stock.  The red Hailey Crepe Dress is so comfy — I have it in black — so I know you will love it.

Hope you all have a great Fourth of July.  Be safe and have fun!!

Breezy Summer Dresses Under $100

Whether you’re hitting up a pool party, BBQ or the zoo with the kiddos this Summer, chances are you will be outside.  Under the sun.  In the heat.  UGH!  So why step out with some threads that will weigh you down?  I found some of the cutest dresses sure to keep you cool and cute this season.  I love that some of these picks are flowy – great for me when I’m feeling a bit bloated.  When I’m feeling on point, I’ll opt for the body-con dresses.  And they are all under $100.  I can’t wait to gives some of these a try!

 

Shoe Obsession: Gingham

Oh how I love gingham! The checkered fabric just screams summer to me. Red gingham reminds me of a picnic blanket, right? This adorable print is coming in hot this season. I just snagged my first pair of gingham heels from Lulus and they were under $35!!

These can be dressed down with some denim or dressed up in a cute summer dress. And the block heel is on trend. They run a little too true to size so I would recommend ordering a half-size up. You know, for when this Houston-summer heat makes you retain water and your feet grow.

Here are a few others looks that caught my eye:

5 Must Have Accessories for Spring

Some of my best outfits are usually topped off with some accessory.  A must-have when you are trying to diversify any outfit.  And when you’re on a budget, it helps to make the same LBD look 10 different ways.  This Spring, I am trying to collect some new pieces to extend my wardrobe.  Here are some items I am currently after.

 

1. The Straw Tote.  Found this beach-ready tote at Nordstrom and love the pom-pom detail.  So fun and I love that you can fit your arm through the handles to keep your hands free for all the other stuff moms have to carry. 

 

 

2.  Silk hair scarves.  One of the easiest ways to disguise a bad hair day is with a scarf wrapped around a ponytail.  Sure the scunchie is making its comeback, but I prefer this look.  The versatility of a head scarf also gives you many options to change up your everyday look.  Wrap it around your head like a bandana, or tie it around your head like a headband.  There are numerous options.  Take a look at this one from Free People.

 

 

3.  Wide-brim hat.  It wasn’t until recently that I took precaution to avoid sun exposure on my face.  As soon as I spotted my first brown spot under my left eye, I took cover.  I’ve been using makeup and tinted moisturizer with SPF but the added protection of a wide-brimmed hat just can’t be beat.  This hat is a steal at just under $13 at Forever 21.

 

4.  Cat-Eye Sunglasses.  Protect your peepers and hide your bags (you know, from those frequent wake-up calls thanks to baby) with some trendy cat-eye sunnies.  I love the gold detail on these from Rose Gal.

5.  Statement Earrings.  How fun are these?  Such a great way to dress up a casual ponytail when you’re out and about.  I love how big and chunky these are and the color is just lovely.  These are a steal from Nasty Gal at under $8!!

There you have it!  My top 5 accessory must haves for this Spring.  What else am I missing?  Please let me know any suggestions.

Shoe Obsession: Espadrilles

Just in time for the summer.  The warm-weather staple, The Espadrille, is back!  From platform sandals to classic flats, everyone from Gucci to Steve Madden is playing with the trend.  I love the unique look of the rope-like soles.  You know this shoe style is ancient, but its timeless look never goes out of style.  Here are some of my favorite variations all under $100 that I found at Nordstrom.

Caslon

Michael Kors

Soludos

Sam Edelman

Sole Society

Bella Vita