Rori

dress: Joie (and here in mint with an even bigger discount). bag (old) and heels: Zara, 

necklace: Forever 21, shades: Target

So I received some exciting news which you may have heard if you follow my Facebook page. Self Magazine contacted me to ask if they could use a picture of this hairstyle in their July issue. I had originally posted it (and tagged Self) on Instagram and because I'm always behind on my pics (these were taken April 23) you're just seeing these now. Self's May issue featured a half up do taken off the runways of Balenciaga with instructions so I had to give it a shot. They only asked that I take a picture with a real camera and a less busy background so I headed outside and fired off about 20 shots. I think I ended up sending them like 10 pictures since I wasn't sure what they would like but I'm so excited to see the next issue!

Zara
Sandal with Buckle
Source: Lyst.com

Joie
Rori Lace Dress
Source: Lyst.com

Magenta

dress: Rory Beca, heels and bag (old): Zara, necklace: JewelMint (Alesia Necklace), cross necklace: Forever 21

This weeks giveaway is for a Striped Beach Tote by Club Monaco (Ret $98.50).

Zara Woman May 2013 Lookbook

Man I love every time one of Zara's lookbooks come out! So many things I want like the blue dress, denim skater skirt (and midi skirt), pink clutch bag, and all the crop tops (to name a few). Which items do you like?

Fine Print

tank: Target, skirt and necklace: Zara, heels: 3.1 Phillip Lim, hat: Nasty Gal (similar)

Zara TRF May Lookbook

What do you think of the newest TRF lookbook? I think it's okay. There are a couple items now on my wish list like the Printed Skirt in the first picture and the white Crossover Jacquard Skirt. Of course they're freaking skirts. Just what I need. Seriously, I have a lot of skirts this season. I counted 19 mini skirts and 5 maxi skirts in my closet right now and every time I start trying to weed some items out I can never seem to get rid of them! I may not wear them often but when I try it on I still like it and convince myself I will wear it soon. What about you? Are there any items you seem to buy a lot of? How do you convince yourself it's time for an item to go?

Beach Wedding Outfits for Comfort and Style

Not sure if any of you are aware but I've worked for a high end caterer for the last 9 years. That and living in the Florida panhandle means I see a lot of weddings. These people come from all over. Just last weekend we had a German couple get married and a mostly Russian party at another wedding.

So, if you have been invited to a beach wedding this summer, you might be pondering what to wear. While you still want to look good, you don’t want to wreck expensive clothing by getting sand stuck in the fibers  nor do you want to feel hot and bothered on the big day. Here are my top suggestions for a perfect beach wedding outfit for ladies this summer.

1.      Color it fabulous

Beach weddings offer fantastic opportunities to get your color palette working overtime. With vibrant colors marking a popular trend this season, go for bold, colorful women’s dresses with tropical prints, hot pinks and eye-popping yellows to truly get into the tropical vibe.

2.      Dip dye

Dip-dyed summer dresses are a trendy and very beachy look - perfect for a hot wedding destination. Choose a maxi dress, dyed a rich shade like burgundy or emerald green with a pale or white hem for a classy style. Dress it up with chunky jewelry and a statement hat to add the glamour.

3.      Stay cool

Sweaty brows and red faces are not a good look for the beach, so choose a dress that lets the breeze in. Choose floaty chiffon for a romantic, fresh look - or if you prefer to keep your legs covered up, choose lightweight crepe or linen trousers with a floaty tunic on top. Avoid white or cream though – only the bride gets to wear those colors.

4.      Cover up

If you are going to a tropical destination, it might get very hot in the middle of the day and cooler at night. Select a nice shrug or lightweight jacket to pop over your exposed shoulders so you don’t end up burning. Use a high factor sun cream, too.

5.      Shoe selection

You need to remember you might be walking on sand, so stiletto heels are a big no-no. If you are tall you will be able to get away with some sparkly flip-flops or coordinated ballet pumps, but for most ladies we’ll need to employ a good old wedge shoe to give us the height and balance we need.

6.      Top it off

A good choice of hat or fascinator (popular in the UK) can turn an average outfit into a wedding stunner. Pick colors that complement your outfit, and don’t be afraid to go for a big-brimmed number. Although fascinators are much trendier than big hats in the UK, abroad you’ll need the practical assistance of a wide brim if you want to avoid squinting all day!