Think Pink Jewels

It's no secret that I love me some navy and pink. These hues create one of the, if not the, best color combination ever whether it be in a living room, flower bouquet or outfit. That being said, for some reason all of my clothes seem to be white and shades of navy. Navy tees, shorts, sweaters, you name it! So naturally, I am always drawn to pink accessories, especially jewelry. See some of my favorites on my wish list below!

initial bangle // gem necklace // neon studs // pink metallic rope  // gem bracelet  // neon earrings  // pink bangle

Are you in a pink mindset as well?

xoxo,

cYa

10 Simple Things to Better Your Summer

It's so easy to get caught up in the rush of summer that it just flies by and is over in no time. This summer I'm definitely trying to appreciate every little moment, whether it be staying in bed for a few extra minutes in the morning or cruising around at sunset with friends. I've compiled a list of a few things that I find important to incorporate into your daily life, and think that doing these things will make you truly enjoy your summer! 

Have a great weekend!

xoxo,

cYa

Friday Fours

Hey everyone! I hope you had a great week! Mine went by slowly but in the best way possible. I'm finally starting to get into my summer routine and it looks a little something like this: tennis in the mornings (or some other workout if it's raining), ACT prep class in the afternoon and blogging/ fun with friends in the evening. I'm one of those people that craves a schedule so this is definitely working for me. 

::one::

If you follow me on Instagram or Twitter (which if you aren't, you definitely should be ;), then you probably heard that I went to the brand new Kate Spade outlet that just opened near my house. Even though I didn't leave with anything, it had the most precious merchandise ever, including the cutest navy and cream scalloped handbag. Not to mention, everything was 40% off! 

::two::

I've been going on a lot of runs lately to try to condition myself for my upcoming tennis season. Slowly but surely I'm learning to deal with like running, and it's becoming easier for me as well! I found this J.Crew iPhone case in my closet the other day too - even though it really isn't made for my phone, how fun is that tortoiseshell?!

::three::

Eek, stripes on stripes has been my favorite thing lately. My navy and white espadrilles have been in constant rotation these past few weeks as well as those Gap shorts. They're perfect since it's been quite chilly lately, especially with my favorite elbow patch sweater from Zara. 

::four::

How cute is this stationery we sell at work? Stocking notecards and thank you notes has been one of my favorite things to do because I have an obsession with organizing everything I come across. Whenever I picture a summer job, I imagine working endless hours doing something I hate. But I'm so lucky to have found a job that I love to death - the time flies by and before I know it, I've been monogramming orders or setting up window displays for 7 hours. It's such a fun thing for me to occupy my time with, and that being said, I really encourage you to look out for a job that interests you. No matter what it is, loving what you do is one of the most rewarding things ever and I'm so fortunate that I found one I adore!

Well that's it for me today! I'm working all weekend for an annual town festival where we'll have a booth set up with tons of monogrammed goodies (eep!), so please excuse my brief break from social media. I promise I'll have lots to come next week, including a fun 4th of July outfit collab!

Have a great weekend everyone!

xoxo,

cYa

Stylish Sweetie: Marissa Meade from Style Cusp

How fun is Marissa from Style Cusp? I've followed her on Instagram for quite some time but haven't visited her blog until recently. I'm officially hooked! This girl has great taste in clothing, keeping her style classic and put together with fun patterns for good measure. I love how some of her outfits are super preppy, while others are more laid back and boho chic. Marissa always keeps it fresh which is definitely something to admire her for. Plus, who couldn't be jealous of those pretty blonde locks of hers? She's also a health nut like myself #wateraddicts . Definitely check out her blog as it has quickly become one of my favorites.

xoxo,

cYa 

What I Eat In A Day

Happy Wednesday! 

I've gotten a lot of questions, especially recently, about my eating habits and how to maintain a healthy diet while still indulging in your favorite foods. Let me be living proof that devouring a giant mixed greens salad is just as filling as a cheeseburger, but doesn't leave you feeling nauseous or guilty. This summer I've kind of gotten a routine down for what to eat in a day, so I thought it would be fun to share with you!

Breakfast 

I begin the day with a large glass of lemon water and then have some kind of fruit and calcium. This usually consists of a yogurt parfait or a homemade smoothie. It's important to get in lots of nutrients to give you energy throughout the day, so I love to add a bunch of granola as well!

Snack

Sometime in the midmorning I'll get hungry, so I head to the fridge and pick out a fruit. Lately I've been devouring peaches like crazy (praise the lord for Costco's giant ones). Cherries are also high up on the list! 

Lunch

I've been keeping my lunches pretty light since the heat tends to leave me not very hungry. Bruschetta is my favorite thing ever because you get some delicious carbs while still getting vegetables in there too. I'll either have this with a side salad or some fruit or veggies. 

Mid-afternoon Snack

Oh gosh, this girl loves her some Skinny Pop popcorn. I could practically only eat this for the rest of my life! A bowl of this is always necessary at some point during the day. Wheat thins crackers or roasted almonds are two other great options that are salty and crunchy - the perfect thing to munch on around 2 or 3 in the afternoon.

Dinner

Dinner really varies on what's going on that day, but salads are my go-to's when I'm home. My favorite is romaine lettuce with whatever chopped up veggies I have on hand topped with a bit of shaved parmesan cheese. I'll throw on a piece of meat (grilled chicken is my favorite) as well and dress it lightly with either lemon juice or salt and pepper. Super simple but delicious and filling! Of course, no day is complete without a small dessert at some point - I definitely think a little indulgence is always necessary ;)

This really varies depending on the day, but I would say this is a good look at a typical day for me!

Now I'm dying to hear: what do you eat in a day? 

Share below!

xoxo,

cYa

Outfit: Neon Embroidered Popover

shirt // shorts // tennies // earrings // bangle 

Throughout the spring and summer, I have been getting so much wear out of this neon striped popover. I bought it in February thinking it was an impulse purchase I would never end up wearing, but I've been pleasantly surprised with how versatile it is! This top is super cute with dark skinny jeans, white jeans or white shorts (I've also wanted to try it with pink chino shorts). Since it's been so chilly lately, this has been my go-to look: button down, chino shorts and a few simple pieces of jewelry like these fun earrings and bangle.

I'm interested to hear - what has been your go-to summer look?

xoxo,

cYa

REFLECT YOUR STYLE // One Kings Lane

Lenoir Oversized Mirror // Gray Malin photography // Carney Table Lamp // Green Oval Tray // Hal Desk in White // Mulberry Rug // Valencia Club Chair

I first stumbled upon One Kings Lane a few months ago, and have been obsessed with it ever since. For those of you who haven't checked out their website (I really recommend you do - you'll love it), it's an awesome online marketplace where there are tons of designer products for great prices. Some of the brands range from Gray Malin photography (swoon) to Serena and Lilly to Scout. It really is the perfect online destination that captures everyone's interior style! So when One Kings Lane asked me to share my decorating taste by styling one of their featured mirrors, I was thrilled. Ever since I started blogging, interiors have really been one of my areas of interest since they kind of coincide with fashion. Styling furniture and pairing patterns with colors is just so fun - don't you agree? Anyway, back to this mirror and vanity styling! If I could own my own apartment right this second, this is something I would include in it: lots of white and neutrals adorned with bright pops of color like that fun hot pink chair. I love how fun yet simple the Lenoir mirror is and how it adds a touch of playfulness to the styling. 

Come check out their other fabulous mirrors right here and sign up to become a member here if you haven't yet!

Are you a One Kings Lane fan?

xoxo,

cYa

Friday Fours

Happy Friday! This week has gone by surprisingly slow, but in the best way possible. I started my first official week of work (more on that below) and enjoyed lots of rainy days home with friends while squeezing in a few workouts here and there. All in all, it was the perfect relaxing week before I start tennis and ACT prep next week. 

::one::

I ordered the cutest heels from Old Navy, and I'm not going to lie - I am surprised how nice the quality is! I can't wait to wear these babies in New York in a few weeks. 

::two::

On Monday Frannie and I attempted making macarons.. It was a bit of a challenge to say the least and they turned out a bit rough, but the process was so fun. We're definitely going to work on perfecting our recipe this summer because how fun would macarons be as a party dessert?

::three::

I've thankfully had a lot more time to read so far this summer, and I have definitely been taking advantage of it. Before I go to bed and every morning when I wake up I read for a few minutes, and I love every minute of it. I just finished Something Blue (love that series) and am starting Where'd You Go Bernadette (finally!). Let me know if you want to see a summer reading list!

::four::

Lastly, what Friday Fours post would be complete without a job recap? This was my first official week of work and I am obsessed. For those of you who don't know, I am a summer employee at the cutest stationery store near my house and it is the perfect thing for me. I learned how to work the monogramming machine to personalize totes and acrylic tumblers, I decorated the storefront window and put together wedding invitations. It has been so fun and I can't wait to continue working (even though it doesn't feel like work!). 

I hope you all have had a great week!

What are some of your summer jobs? I love hearing!

xoxo,

cYa

Lincoln Park Apartment Tour

How perfect is Alaina Kaczmarski's Lincoln Park apartment? Being a Midwestern girl myself, this apartment tour is even better since I know how adorable the neighborhood is. I'm in love with the neutral vibe with hints of color everywhere (how perfect are those pink and white monogrammed bath towels?!). Want to know a fun fact? Alaina is actually a co-founder an editor of the Everygirl, one of my favorite online destinations for all things pretty and polished. Now it makes sense why the Everygirl is so precious! I adore how the space is decorated with mostly vintage Craigslist finds, complete with a giant stack of books in the living room (note to self: must replicate this in my bedroom). You must check out the full tour and see the video Alaina made as well - too good!

Are you in love with this space as well?

xoxo,

cYa

Summer Workout Routine + Infused Water

Happy Wednesday everyone!

After feeling super motivated this week (let's blame a rather food dense weekend if you know what I'm saying), I've decided that dedicating one post a week to fitness and healthy living in general would be a great idea to get us all into tip top shape. I find that I truly feel so much better when I eat healthier and am exercising and drinking water, so why not share these ideas with all of you! I've come up with a great workout routine that I try to do every morning (otherwise I make sure I do it at night) and then I've been drinking infused water all day long as well.

Here is what I've been doing everyday:

In addition to this, I try to get at least 45 minutes of cardio in, whether it's tennis, going for a walk or run or bike ride with friends. 

As for infused water, my favorite thing right now is letting fresh lemon juice soak into water filled with ice cubes and sometimes adding a few blueberries or a little bit of mint to the mix. It's so refreshing, especially on a warm summer day when you're really thirsty! I strongly recommend this when you're craving lemonade or another sweet, sugary drink.

Are you an infused water fan? 

Or do you have a daily workout routine?

xoxo,

cYa

Outfit: Seersucker & Hydrangeas

blazer // tee (similar) // shorts // shoes // bag (similar) // sunnies 

How pretty has this weather been lately? Even though there has been a bit more wind than everyone would like these past couple of days, it's so much better than crazy hot days in the 90 degrees range. With a bit of chillier weather comes the need to layer, and this Gap seersucker blazer provides just the right amount of warmth. It's cute enough to wear during the day but dressy enough to wear to my job (which I'm in love with in case you're wondering! ;). I'm obsessed with the pink and white collar and think it looks perfect with a neon pink chino short and my go to white tennis shoes. My silver watch and tan crossbody also complete the look, giving it a slight menswear vibe. I can't wait to get more wear out of this blazer throughout the summer - maybe I'll even bring it along to the Smart Girls Group Conference in July.

Have you been having to layer at all this summer?

xoxo,

cYa

Must Have: SAINT JAMES Striped Tee

Lately, I've been in love with this look: navy and white striped tee, slightly distressed jean shorts and an oversized watch. We all know I love me some navy and white stripes, but there's something about this nautical ensemble that is even better in the summer. I own a few navy and white striped pieces, but this Saint James for J.Crew version has always been one I've wanted to splurge on. It's so classic and well made - not to mention it's a great investment for your closet. I think I know what I'm doing with my first paycheck ;) Of course, there's plenty of other much less expensive alternatives that are just as great, and a little better on your wallet. See some of my other favorites below. 

Do you own a Saint James tee?

xoxo,

cYa 

4 Things to Try This Weekend

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1. Have lunch at a new spot in your neighborhood. 

2. Treat yourself to a bouquet of your favorite flowers (ehem peonies ehem).

3. Host a bonfire party and use chocolate chip cookies instead of graham crackers for s'mores.

4. Teach yourself calligraphy with the help of Emily from Cupcakes & Cashmere's great tips.

Today I am staying in bed super late catching up on all of the books and magazines I have stacked on my bedside table followed by a long workout and my favorite homemade yogurt parfait. Happy Weekend friends!

xoxo,

cYa

Friday Fours

Happy first Friday of summer! (How is it already June 12...?) What started off as a rather rainy first day ended up bringing an amazingly warm and sunny second day, so needless to say I'm over the moon excited to be off from school. And guess what? Today is my first day of my summer job! After a few job options, I am working at the cutest stationery store and could not be more thrilled. Get ready for lots of upcoming outfit posts that are work approrpaite!

::one::

I found my good old J.Crew pink gingham shirt when I cleaned out my closet and can't believe that I had forgotten about it. This thing is so light and comfy, yet makes you look like you put lots of effort into your outfit. Definitely a summer staple.

::two::

Ever since we had my brother's confirmation party last weekend, I've been indulging in left over fruit like crazy. Nothing tastes like summer more than a juicy piece of pineapple or watermelon, am I right?

::three::

Now having lots of free time, I've been catching up on all of my favorite magazines that I had missed from the past couple of months. I had a huge stack of them on my bedside table and actually have the time to read them now! Cue lots of InStyle, Real Simple and Teen Vogue ;)

::four::

Lastly, I don't care how overinstagrammed (that is definitely not a word) peonies are, you would be crazy not to take advantage of these gorgeous flowers in season right now! I had to search all over the city but finally found some at Trader Joes yesterday. Needless to say, there is a huge bouquet on my bedside table and they make me wake up so very happy. 

I can't wait to update you on my new job as well as some fun other blog plans for the summer. Stay tuned for lots of exciting things in the weeks to come! 

How was your week? Any plans for the weekend?

xoxo,

cYa

Health Benefits of Lemon

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It's no secret that I love me some lemons. They're great in drinks, delicious for desserts and simply pretty to have sitting out on your counter! There are, however, more benefits to lemons than just tasting yummy in recipes. Here are a few other ways to use lemons to better your health:

+ Brighten and Strengthen Your Nails
Lemon is amazing for making yellow or brittle nails beautiful again! Simply apply a mixture of olive oil and lemon juice to your nails to give them a little facelift.

+ Whiten Your Teeth
Similar to brightening your nails, lemon juice is great for whitening your teeth. Mix together lemon juice and baking soda with a q-tip to create an at home version of an expensive whitening treatment. Be sure to leave it on for only a minute though because this mixture is quite strong!

+ Clear Your Skin
To clear up pesky breakouts, apply a bit of lemon juice on a cotton ball to problem areas before you go to bed. Leave it on overnight and rinse off your face in the morning to have glowing skin!

+ Freshen Your Breath
Just like mint, lemon is fabulous for freshening your breath. Rinse your mouth with lemon juice or chew on a lemon wedge to create better smelling breath.

+ Help You Fall Asleep Faster
As if it couldn't do any more, lemon can surprisingly also help you fall asleep faster! Lemon calms your body, reducing anxiety to help you sleep. Squirt a small amount of lemon juice into tea and you will be soothed.

What are your favorite ways to use lemon?

xoxo,

cYa

Palm Leaves Print

one: tote // two: bikini top // three: denim dress // four: scarf // five: gap shorts

Nothing screams summer more than a pretty palm leaf print that's incorporated into your outfit, right? I don't know whether it's the fact that it's totally in style right now or that it is finally starting to warm up outside, but I am so into this palm print lately. It's so classic and cute, yet different from anything I own. It almost has a sort of fun 80's vibe to it. Either way, pairing this green print with navy and white stripes is always a perfect match, as well as with pink or simply white. So far I've purchased this bikini top (in. love.), but I can't wait to add more of it to my wardrobe. I'm thinking those shorts have to be next!

What are your thoughts on this leaf trend?

xoxo,

cYa

Outfit: Lilly Pulitzer Party Dress

dress (similar) // sandals (on sale!) // pink bangle // pauve bracelet // nail polish

I could not be more excited that today was my last day of exams. Hellooo summer! And what better way to celebrate my first day of no school with the perfect summer party dress. Last Sunday I had my brother's confirmation and a party after. It was the first weekend that really seemed like summer and so I knew this dress would be perfect for the occasion. I wasn't sure what to wear, so since Frannie and I basically have the same closet (we're convinced we are twins separated at birth), she ever so kindly let me borrow this Lilly Pulitzer beauty ;) To dress it down a bit, I sported my silver Jack Rogers and threw on a few pretty bangles. The dress is so pretty itself (did you notice the pearl details?!), I didn't want to over style it, especially since I needed to keep it conservative for the church service. While there are so many stunning dresses for spring and summer, nothing really says summer soiree much like a Lilly number, am I right?

Have you broken out any Lilly Pulitzer or other fun pieces for summer?

Shop some other of my favorite Lilly pieces below!

xoxo,

cYa