Summers Best Sandals

I can't get enough sandals this year. I am on a sandal kick and this season there are some absolutely amazing ones to choose from. These four are my particular favorites. Living in San Francisco, there isn't necessarily a need for fancy shoes as much as there is for cute and comfy shoes. Oftentimes, people tend to go comfy, but they end up looking not-so-stylish. I want to show you my faves and explain how versatile they really are.

• Raye the label- Dean Espadrille

This is the most perfect espadrille I have come across this season. I can't get enough of it. The color is amazing and the comfort level is on point. Pair these with a long flowy dress, light jeans and a white tee or rock them with shorts and a floral blouse. 

• Joie- Bea Sandal

If you couldn't tell I am obsessed with nude everything. One thing you need to know is there are so many nudes I hate ie. too peachy, too yellowy or orangey. However, when I find the perfect tan or nude I have to get it. This sandal is low enough and comfortable enough to wear to work. Wear them with jeans and a tee, dress them up to dance the night away at a wedding or pair them with a cute and chic wine tasting outfit. You can practically wear them with anything and are noticeably cute!

• Elina Linardaki- Leather Hoola Hoop Sandal

These sandals are SO fun. They are comfortable and the second you put them on you will start receiving compliments on them. I love these sandals with basics. Jean shorts a tee and these, boyfriend jeans a tank with them or a white linen dress would pair amazingly well with them. 

• Matisse- Kelly Sandal

These are sold out everywhere, but try to get your hands on something similar like these or these OR these. They can be easily dressed up or down. My favorite way to wear these with a fun and patterned dress, with boyfriend shorts a lace tank and a jean jacket, or with a simple white romper.

The Best Makeup for Green Eyes

If you have green eyes like me you may or may not know what eyeshadows make your eyes "pop". Purple is usually the suggested color, but to be honest I just don't love purple eyeshadow. My go-to's are golds, browns and surprisingly oranges. I have discovered a few favorites and want to share them with you.

Tom Ford: Duo Cream & Eye powder color
Color: Naked Bronze
This is my new favorite. It is on the pricier end, but I am completely SOLD on the product. You can literally apply the cream with your fingers and it looks like you just left getting your makeup done ( a little goes a long way so it lasts forever. I love how smooth and easy it is to apply & when you want to give a little extra, the gold powder is EVERYTHING.

Kevyn Aucoin: The Loose Shimmer Eyeshadow
Color: Kunzite
I got this in a free gift bag about a year ago and I use it just about every time I go out. I use it with a blender brush just in the crease in my eye and also dust right under my outer lower lash. It is beautiful and build-able, so you can keep adding for a more dramatic look.

Urban Decay: 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil

Color: Bourbon

I don't wear a ton of eyeliner, but when I go out and want an extra soultry look I add this liner. It is shimmery, but not too glittery. I love how smoothly it glides on and it doesn't run!

Too Faced: Eye Shadow Palette
Color: Neutral Eye shadow collection (I love Honey Pot)
Ok, so I am VERY picky with what gold eyeshadows I like. Some are too glittery and don't stick to your eyelid, some are too yellow, too orange, too matte or they don't have enough pigment. Honey Pot from the Too Faced Palette is PERFECT. The only downside is, they don't sell it separate from the palette. If you can get your hands on it you'll know what I mean.

Mac: Eyeshadow

Color: Saddle

This color is the perfect neutral. I love it because I can put this in the crease of my eye and blend it during the day, then go back and touch up to add more and build it to an evening look. I will add some under my lower lashes and it softly enhances my greens. It was my first "green eye" purchase that I noticeably felt made my eyes look extra green.

Charlotte Tilbury: Color Chameleon

Color: Bronzed Garnet

I havent tried this yet, but it's in the mail. I've read multiple articles on how amazing it is, and I can't wait! It looks absolutely stunning.

Nars: Eyeshadow Duo

Color:Portobello 

This Nars duo is perfect for day time. The lighter color looks great on the base of your eyelid and the darker shade works well on the crease. This is less dramatic, but is sure to make your eyes stand out!

Lancome: Hypnose Drama

Color: Excessive Black

Don't forget Mascara! My all-time favorite mascara is this one.

Now you should be well prepared to create even more show-stopping eyes everyday!

My New (Affordable) Beauty Routine

Ok, let's admit it. There are millions of beauty products out there. When you start looking and reading about all of them you may end up walking away with way too many products that you may even discontinue using over time, what a waste of money! We also have to agree that having a routine with 10 products a night gets super expensive. I am trying this new routine and I've been loving it, so I thought I'd share!

The more I read the more I'm learning that the more natural the products the better. Too many beauty lines are harsh on your skin and leave your skin freaking out! My best friend is a little hippi, yogi, beautiful human. Thanks to her I am able to write this post, because she intro'd me to this new routine that I love.

1. Dr. Bronners Soap

This soap will stand the test of time. I don't know if you know this brand, but people use it on EVERYTHING. I am not kidding. On their hair, face, clothes, sink, pets, etc. Its amazing and affordable! I wash my face with this morning and night. For directions on uses, look here.

2. Dr. Gross Peel

Let me start by saying, this one isn't for everyone! I started using this after my facialist noticed I had very slight discoloration on my face called Melasma from birth control. I am lucky to have had someone notice it early, before it got too bad and she said it is SUPER likely when you take birth control. She suggested these Alpha Beta peels every few days in the evening. I love them and and feel like they've really helped keep my skin tone pretty even. If you feel like you have some skin discoloration I highly recommend trying them after you wash and dry your face.

2. Rose hip oil

I have been reading about all the antioxidant properties of rose hip oil and had been wondering about it for a while. Once I heard great reviews from someone I trust, I knew I had to try it. This is the one I've been using and I love it. I use it in the evening after washing my face. It makes me feel bright and fresh! I swear it makes a difference. I use this after I wash my face.

4. Vitamin A & E

Some anti-wrinkle creams are an upwards of $50. For $13 you have a near endless supply of an amazing anti-aging oil. This product promotes soft and supple skin. It's 100% vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, mineral oil-free, lanolin-free, gluten free, GMO-free. I put this under my eyes and all over my eyelids before bed. I love it.

Why You Need A Vacation

After 10 days in paradise, I learned a few things

1. Take your vacation. You earned it. PTO is there for you as a benefit. It is one of the most underrated benefits, and many people max out their PTO and let those hours go to waste. You literally get paid to GET OUT OF TOWN, so why don't you do it? Too expensive or on a budget? Plan for it, pick up a side job (what I do), or go somewhere local (camping anyone)!
2. Unplug a bit- This one is tough. I am not going to lie to you and say I've mastered this, I haven't. To me, I just try to use the internet less than usual. AKA don't be glued to your phone.
3. Spend time doing things you love- While on vacation, don't apologize for spending time on YOU. You see- I love working out. I enjoy it, and it makes me happy, so even on vacation I like to get in some sweat sessions. Other things I love doing are reading, blogging, and drinking great wine. Plan a trip for you!! You may have a friend who likes to do similar things. Maybe you love museums- find someone who does too!
4. People with much less seem to have SO MUCH JOY- I can't begin to tell you how true this has been on each trip to a 3rd world country i've taken. People who don't even have fully paved roads, work 15 hour days, make next to nothing... greet you with the biggest smile on their faces. Yes, their jobs may not be as technical as yours, but they work damn hard for what little hey have and have found joy. Taking a trip may open your eyes to appreciate your life a bit more like it has for me.
5. Taking a vacation doesn't have to break your budget. Like I mentioned briefly earlier, if you can't go international then pick a place you can road trip to, or a city you've wanted to fly to affordibly. Monitor the prices here and find the best places to go for the best prices.
6. Find a travel buddy who likes similar things you do. I don't personally love having a scheduled itinerary on vacations, so I try to pick travel partners that are more looking to relax. Also, someone who is OK being independent or you going off being independent if the activities you plan on doing don't match up (go off for the day and meet back up for dinner).
7. SLEEP is amazing and OK to over-do. I used to think sleeping in was for lazy people, well let me tell you... I slept until 11 OR 12 everyday on my trip and it was NEEDED. On top of sleeping in each day, I took multiple naps. I finally after a few days felt back to normal and re-energized. I noticed that I really needed it, and wasn't giving myself enough of it.
8. Sometimes you have to Splurge! Yes, I said it. Stop talking yourself out of spending a couple hundred bucks on a trip. Try not going out to dinner for a few weeks- you'll be shocked how much you can save! You can make it happen, but obviously work within your budget
9. Being relaxed with friends makes for amazing memories. Jen and I laughed our butts off, chatted about everything under the sun, shook our booties on the dance floor, and had a blast just being 2 girls on vacation together exploring.
10. Food in America is Amazing- I am not going to lie, I am extra grateful for avocados, green juice, acai bowls, big salads, gluten free options, almond milk, and good coffee shops! Tomorrow is going to be amazing :)

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” – Anonymous

10 Cute Swimsuits: For the ladies with a larger cup size

Alright- this one is a more personal post. I have a larger chest (thanks mom) and have had trouble finding the perfect bikini that is flattering. Don't get me wrong, my friends always comment when I wear a regular bikini saying I look fine, but I prefer to not let it all hang out and have too much attention on my chest when I am going to the beach. I have found that what works best for me is tie strings in the back and behind my neck, so I can make adjustments. I have been on a hunt for the perfect swimsuits for quite some time and I have found some really amazing ones. I hope this post can help you out if you deal with the same problems when shopping for swimwear.

Here are some of my favorites:

1. Luli Famia (Size D-F)- I got this one in the color Showstopper and I'm obsessed. I opted for the string bottoms, and I can't wait to wear this!

2. Lolli Swim- I love this athletic one piece. Who said one pieces had to be ugly? Throw on some ripped denim and you're good to go!

3. Beach Bunny- This lady lace bikini is super cute. I love that it is flattering and sexy, but not too much since it's black.

4. Vix- This swimsuit has fuller coverage if you size up. I like Vix and love that they make this bikini in a variety of colors.

5. Vitamin A- I bought this one in 2 colors, because it fits SO well. I love love love it. Try this one for yourself. Also note, it doesn't have to be worn like it is below. you can also adjust it to fit like a normal halter top.

 

6. Becca Virtue- This brand specializes in larger cup sizes. I love this brand because again, they have every color and size. Check them out!

7. Lolli Swim- This crop top is everything. It's water friendly and has great coverage. I also love the nude and white combo! 

8. Mara Hoffman- This one piece has GREAT coverage in the front. I know when I am at the beach and want to paddle board, play volleyball or do anything else active... I get a little insecure. This swimsuit will cover you up, without making you look like you have no style. I absolutely love this cut.

9. ASOS- (DD-F)- ASOS has a ton of swimsuits for large cup sizes. I like that it is affordable (most large tops are expensive) and that they are pretty cute. Some large tops are horrendous.  Make sure if you're going for a color like this, that you either a) get a spray tan or b) are tan. Otherwise you will look naked! 

10. Monday Swimwear- I am ANXIOUSLY awaiting this line to re-launch. They are coming out with a few suits for larger busts, and they are SO cute.

A List Of People You Need To Follow On Social Media

This quote holds very true to me. Surrounding yourself with positivity can truly change your outlook or mood and there are studies to prove it. I have to be real and super honest with you; we can't control that all the time nowadays. Think about it. We spend many hours each week in the car, tons of hours at work(sometimes stressful), and have a ton of time throughout our days where we are not surrounded by positivity & are actually immersed in stressful, negative atmospheres of which we can't control. However, I have a tip to combat all the negativity... since it seems to me we ALWAYS have access to or are on social media!

Think about it. We check our facebook, email, twitter, snapchat, instagram, and every other form of social media constantly throughout the day. The people we follow give us little reminders through their posts of our interests and take up space in our minds. Who are you filling that space with? We choose who we follow! I for one can admit there are some superficial people I follow because I am inspired by their fashion, but I also have unfollowed tons of people if I feel like what they stand for doesn't align with what I stand for. Excitingly enough, I have found some super amazingly inspiring people I follow and think you should too. It's always nice to see a post here and there of pure positivity.

Frank Sommerville
This man has such a kind heart and his Facebook page proves it. He inspires people to be kind, give back, and stay positive. Check him out and follow!

Prince Ea
This guy posts the most motivating and inspiring content through sharing awesome posts, but also creating spoken words. You have to follow his facebook page!

Healthy Is The New Skinny
Katie H. Willcox is a plus sized model who decided to create a company to support women of ALL shapes and sizes. No this isn't only for plus sized women, it is for all women. She digs in to healthy eating and exercise, looking at how effed up the media is on portraying women, and speaks to crowds on how to have a healthy mindset and life. Check them out here and here.

The Good Quote
The good quote is an instagram page I follow for little bits of inspiration throughout my day as I scroll. I love them, simple and awesome!

Ellen Degenerous
I mean who doesn't like Ellen. She is funny, kind, and will always brighten your day. I follow her on Facebook and she always posts funny videos and acts of kindness that I just can't help but watch.

Boss Babe
I love following hard working, driven, and supportive women. Boss Babe is a community of women working towards similar goals, to run their own business one day. It is an educational place, an inspiring place, and I love seeing their "create your own destiny" kind of posts.

Amber Dodzweit
I love her posts. I usually don't love following too many fitness people. The reason being is most don't eat enough, are obsessed with themselves, and don't have balanced lives. NOT Amber. She is as real as they come and I just love that. Her posts inspire, educate, and encourage. Check her out.

Where To Online Shop: My Favorite Links Right Now

Online shopping is getting bigger and bigger. It is convenient, you can usually find deals, and shipping is typically free. Since I do styling on the side, I have tried TONS of sites for my clients and these ones are my go-to's.

1. Revolve
My go-to is Revolve. Not only does revolve have my favorite brands all in one place, but it's the easiest place to online shop. Revolve has their own app and makes it super simple to navigate. They allow free returns (if something doesn't fit or you just don't love it) and they even send you a return label with your order.
Favorite Brands to search here: Stone Cold Fox, L*Space, WILDFOX, Lovers and Friends, Rails

2. ShopBop
ShopBop is much like Revolve; all my favorite brands in one spot. This one may be a little bigger than Revolve which makes it a tiny bit more challenging to navigate. However, there are awesome finds to be had shopping on this site and a ton of variety.
Favorite Brands to search here: Mother Jeans, Alexis, Tibi

3. FORWARD by Elyse Walker
I love this site for more expensive high end designer apparel. It is on the pricier side, but an amazing site to find really nice pieces.
Favorite Brands to search here: Acne Studios, Isabel Marant, Stella McCartney

4. Shop Van De Vort:
I love this little La Jolla Boutique. It has a very Mod and Hippie feel. Need cool jewelry or a fun outfit for a festival? Go here!
Favorite Brands to search here: Flynn Skye, Novella Royale, Cleobella, Show me your mumu

5. Beginning Boutique
I love this Australian Boutique. It has tons of different brands that aren't as big in the US and has into'd me to some looks I haven't seen here in the states.
Favorite Brands to search here: Quay, One Teaspoon, Afends, The Fifth Label

6. Carbon38
Need fun workout clothes? Look no further, I'm obsessed with the fun brands this site introduced me to. Check them out for your next fun pair of leggings.
Favorite Brands to search here: Koral, Private Party, Teeki

7. Anthropologie:
Antro is my spot for a ton of basics. Great fitting jeans, cute booties, sweaters, or nice tops. I always find something at Anthro.
Favorite Brands to search here: AG Jeans, Cloth and Stone, Citizens of Humanity  

8. NASTYGAL
This site is a mix of everything. Vintage, quirky, and different! I love the looks they go for and the designers they feature on this site.
Favorite Brands to search here: For Love & Lemons, Jeffrey Campbell

9. Bloomingdales
I like Bloomingdales, because they have so many options and if I need something fast I can check to see if I can swing by and pick it up! I also have a (free) bloomingdales points card (not a credit card), so I get $ back!
Favorite Brands to search here: Elizabeth and James, Joie, Rag and Bone 

10. Off 5th- Saks
I am obsessed with Off 5th the outlet for Saks 5th Avenue. Can you say discounts? They are always running deals and I have always found really expensive clothes at a fraction of the original cost.
Favorite Brands to search here: Vince, A.L.C., DVF

Quick tip: I have registered a few email addresses to websites, so I can usually get 10-15% off my purchases. I hate paying full price for things, so if you are making a big purchase you may want to consider registering your email for a discount.

10 Favorite Dresses To Wear To Spring & Summer Weddings

We are swinging in to wedding season. Whether you have a bridal shower, wedding, graduation, or any other sort of fancy party this Spring/Summer I know you are wondering what to wear. It's time to think ahead and find the perfect dress to show stop at whichever event you are attending. I have picked out 10 of my absolute faves and I hope you're as obsessed as I am.

This dress is perfect for a warm day. If it get's chilly you can throw a nude shawl over it, don't forget to pick up an amazing strapless bra, and this dress pair with a wedge and you're set!

I am in love with all the fun florals this season. This dress is on the pricier side, but will be one that will be your go-to for years to come! It's a dream.

Feeling fun and wanting to try something a bit different? I love love love this long sleeve shift dress. It's always nice to have one in your closet just in case you aren't feeling your most slim. They flow loosely so you can dance and eat without a worry!

This Elizabeth and James dress, I just adore. It's so cute and flirty. All you need is a nude heel and you're all set! It doesn't hurt that this country star rocked it on the red carpet

I am all about bringing the color to weddings, especially in the summer. This dress is SO perfect for dancing the night away. No need to worry about any wardrobe malfunctions in this one. I would wear this with a brown or nude wedge and hit the dance floor HARD!

Lace is always the perfect go-to for weddings. It's cute, and photographs very well. This one is one of my faves this year.

This shift dress is super fun to dance in. It doesn't constrict your legs and it flows nicely. Dress it up and wear it to a wedding or dress it down and wear it with flip flops.

I am OBSESSED with this Stone Cold Fox dress. All you need are some cute espadrilles and you are set to show stop!

There's nothing like a deep olive dress with sunkissed skin. This one would be perfect with a pair of brown or tan wedges and some golden makeup!

This salmon wrap dress is the perfect dress for a vineyard daytime wedding. Wrap dresses are known to give you shape (sinching at the waist) and are simply classic.

10 Best Rompers and Jumpsuits This Season

Let's chat rompers and jumpsuits. Some people think that they won't work for them, but let me tell you it is ALL about what kind you get. If you have a long torso, finding one that sinches higher up on your waist will be your perfect find. If you have a short torso, you should pick one that sinches lower near your hips. There are so many amazing finds out this season, some are pricey and some are super affordable. Here are my 10 faves this year.

1. This Zimmerman jumpsuit is my favorite for this summer. It is a bit pricey, but I am eager to find it on sale somewhere. I have tried it on, and it is EVERYTHING.

2. Stone cold fox makes this fun and flirty floral romper that I can't get enough of. Dress it up for a night out with your girlfriends, or dress it down to wear to a BBQ.

3.  Faithful the brand makes this amazing beachy romper that is light and perfect to wear to a BBQ, fair, or beach party. If you have a larger chest, no worries, you can easily wear a bralette to make this wearable and comfortable for you.

4. I love splendid! Their material is amazing and this romper is super comfy and casual. Wear it with tennies and a ballcap, flip flops and a straw hat, or wedges and a clutch to dress things up a bit!

5. This Nicholas romper is EVERYTHING. I am all about the one shoulder, and the light yet detailed material makes for a super chic oufit. Wear this to a bridal shower, dinner on the water, or to a ladies brunch.

6. If you want to dress things up a bit for a special event (ie. a wedding, cocktail party, or night on the down) I think this jumpsuit is perfect. This cut is one that would flatter almost any body type (curvy, athletic, or slim). Try switching things up and be that girl with the confidence to rock a jumpsuit instead of a dress!

7. This beachy romper is perfect for the casual day out to the farmers market, walk to the beach, or day at the park. Again, if you are busty feel free to wear a bralette underneath!

8. I am SUPER obsessed with Linen and I cant get enough of this quick to throw on linen romper. It is super comfy and perfect to wear on a scotching hot day.

9. I am always so obsessed when I see a girl in a button up jumpsuit like this. I thought that you could only find them "vintage" or at a thrift store. I am so excited to see reformation bringing them back.

10. Last, but definitely not least is this hot, bright, and AFFORDABLE romper by Amanda Uprichard. Wear this to date night or out to the clubs this works on many occasions.