Umbrella

The last time it rained, I realized that we only had one umbrella, and that my dear commuting husband takes it to work with him every day in case it rains. As it turns out, it is a best to have one on hand at home. Lesson learned. 

So, once I picked up this rather standard one at Target (in case Peter needs to use it, I refrained from getting the polka dot one), I decided to give it a warm welcome by making it the centerpiece of an outfit. 

I got the boots last spring and love them! They are rubbery on the outside, but lined with fabric on the inside so they don't rub my legs raw.

I hope you enjoy looking at the pictures as much as I enjoyed taking them!

Umbrella: Totes (Target)

Earrings: Francesca's 

Shirt: Banana Republic Factory Store

Skirt: Forever 21

Boots: Maurice's

Navy on Navy

Up until recently, I disliked wearing blue on blue, black on black, white on white etc. But it seems to be a common fashion trend. I know my shirt isn't solid navy, but it was still a stretch for me.

I picked up this shirt last weekend at Ann Taylor Factory Store and it is a divine material. It is so soft you almost can't believe it. All this to say, it is a delight to wear it.

You may also notice it has a Mandarin collar, I am powerless to resist the Mandarin.

This is the easiest way to do my hair. I make the pouf in the front and then tie the back into a pony tail, and stuff it in (sort of like doing a Topsy tail without going all the way through). Then you pin it together at the top and viola!

I got this necklace from my grandmother Audie. She used to wear it everyday and I always admired it. I was so honored to get it after she passed away. It's nice to have something that she treasured so much and that I remember her by.

Shirt: Ann Taylor Factory Store

Pants: Gap

Shoes: Gap

Earrings: Francesca's

Necklace: Audie

Bracelet: Gift

New Finds

Luke and I went to the local pool with a friend, and half and hour after we arrived they closed the pool due to a power outage. What were we to do? Check out the nearby shopping area, of course! 

I found some fun accessories that I have been looking for all summer. I was hoping for a statement necklace in either turquoise or coral, so why not both together? And the wrap bracelet? A great choice for skinny wrists. Did I mention they were buy one, get one 1/2 off?

I also picked up the shirt for $10. It is a nice summer neutral with some shimmer. Not too shabby for a spur of the moment shopping trip.

Necklace: Francesca's

Bracelet: Francesca's

Shirt: Ann Taylor

Rainy Days

 Due to today's inclement weather, Sunny and I decided to take pictures underneath the awning at my house. 

Shirt: Forever 21

Skirt: Dillards

Shoes: Thrifted

Purse: Thrifted

Earrings: Gift

Ring: Forever 21

Sunny is all about her purses. She's got all kinds of cross body, hobo, and small hand bags. This little number was thrifted but looks a lot like Chanel bags I've seen recently. Jean, at Extra Petite . com did a review of Chanel bags so if you are interested in purchasing one, see her reviews here and here.

Forever 21 is a great place to vamp up your accessories. If you need inspiration, just go to their website and order a few things. Most new items retail for less than $9.

Default

I have recently noticed that anytime I am in a hurry to dress for work, I default to black and white. It is such a classic combination. To spice it up (a little), I added a ribbon belt from another skirt and a pair of chandelier earrings. 

I bought this skirt in high school, while I worked at Ann Taylor Factory Store and dreamed of being a senator. How things have changed... I think it fit me better then than it does now. Still, I can't seem to get rid of it, since I love the houndstooth pattern and have nothing else like it. Maybe I will get around to some DIY tailoring on it one of these days.  

These earrings are definitely my go-to for fancy occasions. They make me feel more Mediterranean for some reason.

I guess I should have lint rolled the shirt, but I get a pass since I have a baby (right?).

What is your default?

Sunglasses: Kate Spade

Earrings: Dillards

Shirt: Banana Republic

Belt: c/o an old skirt

Skirt: Ann Taylor Factory Store

Shoes: Aerosoles