let me be your national anthem

One of my favorite holidays, the 4th of July, is just around the corner. I love finding the perfect red white and blue ensemble to rock while biking to the parade, hopping from barbeque to barbeque, and watching fireworks. Here are some fabulous patriotic picks for those of you still looking for perfect Americana pieces. 

all images from net-a-porter.com

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Queen of Hearts

Anthropologie "Carolinae" Top purchased in Pasadena this weekend

American Eagle Outfitters Camisole

Paige Premium Denim straight-leg Jeans

Steve Madden buckle gladiator Sandals

Hope you all had a lovely Presidents' Day weekend! I know I did, because I got to spend the day with my mommy in beautiful Pasadena. We checked out the Barney's Warehouse Sale (which was pretty picked over, but she found a great dress and now I know to go the very first day), bought some new fabrics in the garment district, and found a few great things at Anthro. And then we got to stay at this fabulous hotel for the night:

The Langham Huntington Hotel was beautiful and built in the twenties and best of all, full of pink! I had to nab a few of the pens from our room because they were just too adorable.

I had such a lovely time and I cannot wait for my grandmother to find a place in Pasadena this spring because that means I'll get to head up there a lot more often! 

Also, look how cool these fabrics are that I picked up! I cannot wait to make shorts and skirts and dresses and more with them!

How was everyone else's long weekend?

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A Very Merry Christmas

I hope all of you had wonderful days yesterday. I know I did! Seventy degrees and not a cloud in the sky here in Southern California! After gifts were unveiled and a lovely brunch was served, we hung out poolside eating crackers and brie all afternoon. I know some people dream for white Christmases, but honestly, I love my sunny and bright Christmas!

by Slim Aarons, Hollywood, 1954

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Making Spirits Bright

Christmas/wintertime inspiration

(images not mine, I'm just sharing them)

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Gift Giving 101

Like it or not, my friends, the holidays are here. And that means...presents! Whether you are giving or receiving little boxes in bows, here are my favorite gifts for every type of trendsetter out there. 

The Whimsical One

For the colorful, bright, energetic, whimsical one
 

The Glamorous One

 For the fancy, sophisticated, elegant, social, glamorous one

The Artsy One

 For the bold, creative, edgy, downtown, witty, artsy one
 

The Cozy One

For the caring, comforting, peaceful, serene, cozy one

(all images from net-a-porter, modcloth, or Kate Spade)

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We Like to Party

Pumpkins are smashed on the streets. Costumes are lying on the floor in a corner. And somewhere a Starbucks is setting out their holiday cups once again. Yes, it is November First, also known as the beginning of the Holiday Season!

I know for me the holidays mean parties. From charity luncheons to gingerbread house making parties, everyone has a lot to do. But what to wear!?

Have no fear! I have plenty of tips on what to wear this holiday season!

Thanksgiving Feast

 Thanksgiving is a cozy family holiday, but I always like to look somewhat put together for the feast of the year. A sweater dress or long sleeve frock in a rich hue does just the trick.

Cocktail Party

 Make like tinsel and glitter it up! Be the center of attention with a sparkly mini dress and let the dress do all the talking. Pair with black accessories and you got the glam factor that will get everyone talking.

Baby, it's Cold Outside

Even a California girl like me understands that it gets chilly in the winter, so pick up a perfect coat that can function for any occasion. Black or leopard works for any event and adds sophistication to any ensemble.

Christmas Luncheon

Give that charity luncheon or office holiday party some color in one of these neon power dresses. When everyone else is wearing a pantsuit, all eyes will be on you!

Run-Around-Town Dress

The holidays are a busy time, and sometimes you need a reliable do-anything dress. Look for something long, loose, but polished (nipped at the waist or an elegant neck tie) that you can throw on as you run errands all day. These dresses are perfect because they are one-item outfits. Add some shoes and a handbag and you are ready to go!

Winter Ball

Got a black tie event this holiday season? Make it a high-drama event and go for a daring dress with a brilliant hue, an artsy print, or a daring plunge. Be sure it's a night to remember and a dress that no one will ever forget!

 Have any more holiday style questions? Feel free to ask!

(all items from net-a-porter.com)

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Stars and Stripes Forever

Now, apparently in most parts of the country the Fourth of July is celebrated with barbecues and bonfires and the occasional firework display, but where I live, the Fourth is just as big as Christmas. It's not that our town is ridiculously patriotic or anything, but it is a small beach town and everyone knows each other and on the Fourth you could literally walk into any backyard bash or pool party and be welcome, there's just this wonderful sense of brotherhood all around. The roads all but shut down for a huge parade down main street and our day begins at eight in the morning and the parties do not stop until the fireworks at ten. It is just the most marvelous thing, and I know for the rest of my life I will always make a homeward pilgrimage for such a spectacular holiday.

But whatever your holiday looks like, it is very important to rep the Red, White, and Blue. Some people fear looking too similar to the Star-Spangled Banner is dorky, but take it from these runway hits; this color combo can be cool too!

 (runway shots from style.com)

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