styleXsydnie

Fall Fashion Inspo

August 20, 2018August 16, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

Now that we are heading into late August, I’ve got Autumn on the brain. Usually Santa Cruz has an Indian Summer, but I find myself longing for cooler evenings, oversized sweaters, and hot apple cider. To feed my craving, I’ve rounded up some of the most fitting Fall inspiration finds from Pinterest. If these looks don’t get you in the mood to go pumpkin picking and sit by the fire with your favorite mystery book, I don’t know what will.

“Autumn seemed to arrive suddenly that year. The morning of the first September was crisp and golden as an apple.”

― J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

The LBD of Summer

August 13, 2018August 6, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

Many times on this blog I’ve mentioned how important a Little Black Dress (LBD) is for every woman’s wardrobe, but usually I’m referring to a dress that is fit for a holiday party, last minute black tie wedding, or fancy date night.

Finding an LBD that can do all of those things AND be casual enough for the beach is a whole other story.

Let me introduce you to the LBD of Summer: this button-front cami is light and airy enough for hot, casual summer days, yet it easily elevates itself for a more dressy occasion with the right shoes and accessories. You’re welcome.

“One is never overdressed or underdressed with a Little Black Dress.”

― Karl Lagerfeld

Always a Bridesmaid, Never a Bride

August 6, 2018August 1, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

After working tons of weddings this season, I’ve seen many different dress options for bridesmaids. As time progresses, people are moving in a less traditional direction—which I love! Most notably, I have not seen a single wedding this year where each bridesmaid is wearing a 100% matching dress, as is typically found at your run of the mill wedding dress shop. Let’s face it, it’s nearly impossible to flatter EVERYONE in your bridal party with the same dress, so why try? Instead of forcing something that usually doesn’t fit or feel right, brides are getting creative. These are a few of my favorite modern bridesmaids dress trends (so far:-)

White SHORT Dresses

Same Color/Fabric but Different Style

Different Fabrics/Patterns of Same Basic Color

Same/Similar Fabric/Style but Different Colors

Jumpsuits Instead of Dresses

My favorite dress shops right now are BHLDN, ModCloth, Lulus, Reformation, and ASOS!

Summer Bucket List

July 30, 2018July 24, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

I cannot believe it is already the end of July! With life moving so quickly these days, I decided to make a list of all of my favorite summer activities that I want to accomplish before fall comes around. I look forward to the long, hot days of summer all year. It’s the year’s “Friday” after all, and that means taking life a little bit easier. Without wasting any more time, let’s get started!

Reading. Reading. Reading. Currently I’m loving Into The Water by Paula Hawkins. Next up, Ohio by Stephen Markley.

Road Trips. There is nothing more fun than driving up and down the California coast, making stops in our favorite cities along the way.

Lake Days. Going camping and floating the day away in the water is my perfect definition of summer.

At Home Spa. Spending an evening in the bath with a mask on my face and in my hair. I will light a few candles to set the mood and play my favorite jams. I feel rejuvenated in no time.

Beach Bonfire. Grab some hot dogs, marshmallows, and your closest friends and watch the fire with the warm ocean breeze on your face.

Ice Cream. Nothing cools me down better than a nice big scoop of one of my favorite flavors of ice cream–cookie dough, mint chip, or Marianne’s 1020. Indulging every once in a while never hurt anyone!

Nap Time. Let’s face it; life is tiring. Summertime naps are definitely allowed, and I always feel able to enjoy daylight savings a little longer when I’ve had a great snooze.

Jogging. I love to take an easy run outdoors first thing in the morning–something that isn’t always weather permitted the rest of the year.

The Drive-In. Talk about the quintessential date night!

Backyard BBQ. The best get togethers are always at a Barbecue, right?!

“One benefit of Summer was that each day we had more light to read by.”

― Jeannette Walls, The Glass Castle

Currently Craving: Hoop Earrings

July 23, 2018July 17, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

A good pair of hoop earrings has been on my wish list for the past year. To be honest, I’m one of the only people my age that I know who doesn’t already own any. I feel like hoop earrings are the perfect accessory—they effortlessly dress up any hairstyle or outfit, can make a bold statement or be subtle, and they are always in fashion. It’s taken me a while to buy a pair for myself because I’ve been a bit picky. Having wanted them for so long, I don’t want to be disappointed with the pair I pick! I don’t want them too big or too small, too heavy or too light, and I’m having trouble deciding between white and yellow gold. Check out my list so far, and I’ll be sure to update everyone with my purchase (if and when that ever happens).

Off 5th

Neiman Marcus

The RealReal

Net-a-Porter

Neiman Marcus

Luisaviaroma

Off 5th

“Jewelry is a very personal thing…it should tell a story about the person who’s wearing it.” –Garance Doré

Red, White, & Blue

July 16, 2018July 10, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

Every year my family plans a big 4th of July get together, and it’s always a great time, but this year Joel and I couldn’t make it. At first I was bummed but then I realized this was the first time we could start creating our own traditions.

After brainstorming about how we should spend the day, we decided on a miniature road trip—no surprise there. Joel loves driving, and I love being a passenger on scenic backroads and exploratory adventures.

As we headed Southbound on HWY 1, we looked out over the coast and also drove through various parades that were taking place in each town.

Once we got to Carmel, we parked and went for a nice walk along the cliff. We enjoyed having the time to take our time and spend it a little more quietly than we usually did on Independence Day. That night we listened to fireworks going off in the distance from the comfort of our bed, content with how the day turned out. Even though things were different, they were still good.

On Me:

Nars Heat Wave Lipstick

Forever Blouse

Urban Sweater

Marc Jacobs Sunnies

Articles of Society Jeans

Elk Wallet

Shoes of Summer

July 9, 2018July 2, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

In my opinion, there are really only three pairs of shoes you need for summer: slides, slip-ons, and wedges. Slides are upgraded flip flops—nice enough to wear out to dinner but still easy for beach days. When you want to wear something a little bit sportier, maybe you’re going on a sunset walk or are headed to an amusement park, pull out your slip-ons. These effortless sneakers scream summer, and the no laces look takes a more feminine feel on the classic tennis shoe. Wedges are summertime’s stiletto. These shoes are great for a night out with your girlfriends but still remind everyone you’re in vacation mode. If you’re closet is lacking summer’s most important shoes, keep scrolling.

“One shoe can change your life.” — Cinderella

Brands I Love

July 2, 2018June 25, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

I’m constantly on the hunt for new brands and retailers on the market. In the past few months I’ve discovered some companies that have earned my stamp of approval and quickly become a few of my favorite places to shop. Today I thought I would talk about three of them—Everlane, & Other Stories, and Monday Swimwear.

Everlane:

As a young woman who just started her first full-time professional job, I’ve come to see Everlane is a great resource for finding high quality, basic pieces at a reasonable price. Their clothing is nice enough to wear at the office, but comfortable and balanced. I find them both trendy and classic. See for yourself:

& Other Stories:

If you love H&M’s fashionable pieces, but find yourself disappointed in the standard of their quality, look no further than & Other Stories. Coming from the same people who brought you H&M, & Other Stories is literally a couple of stories above them, unintended he he. This collection is more expensive than H&M pieces, but you’re paying for better made items. Though just as stylish, & Other Stories is not competing with other fast fashion retailers like H&M and Forever 21. Instead they are selling items that are built better and can last. Check them out:

Monday Swimwear:

I’ve talked about the subject of swimwear many times on the blog, usually with a heavy sigh, because it’s the one category of clothing that is difficult for me to find a good fit for my form. That’s not because I don’t see tons and tons of styles that I would love to wear, but instead it’s because the bathing suit industry rarely offers sizes and cuts for the common woman. Luckily Monday Swimwear is here to make the swimsuit buying process more fruitful for your everyday girl. They offer a range for women up to an E/F cup with an impeccable fit and standard. They refuse to include any piece that has not been tried on and fit the buyer’s body and needs. Their Clovelly top, in particular, is well known for being supportive and flattering. Keep scrolling:

“Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life.” –Bill Cunningham

The Tie-Front Shirt

June 25, 2018June 19, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

My summertime style is a little bit more carefree and fun.

As soon as the weather gets into the 80s, I find I just want to play around with my look. For example, I usually wear button downs tucked in. I like the form and shape it gives me.

Once Summer arrives though, I’ll usually do a tie in the front style. I’ll get the same structure to the look, but with a more casual flair and feel that is better in hot weather.

Changing how we wear clothing can be just as fun as getting something new and can drastically change the look and feel of the item. We all express ourselves through our styles, even those of us who claim we have no style and pay little attention to what we wear or how we wear it. It all goes into presentation. A tied button down says summer to me, and lets everybody else know I’m feeling it.

For more Tie-Front tops, keep scrolling. Maybe you’ll be inspired to switch things up too.

Spring Uniform

June 18, 2018June 12, 2018 SydnieLeave a comment

Lately I’ve been in a bit of a fashion rut. Picking out my outfit each morning has become increasingly difficult.

I find myself growing tired of the usual spring trends such as crop tops and ripped jeans. When I was younger I was always the first one to hop on the most recent fashion fad and stay on until something cooler was in style. Now that I’m transitioning into my mid twenties, I am less eager to wear the latest and greatest and more inclined to put on something timeless and classic.

Enter the white button down, a good pair of jeans, and a versatile flat. This outfit has turned into my spring uniform quickly. It’s something I continuously gravitate towards when nothing else seems to fit my day or mood.

I love this look because it feels like something that Audrey Hepburn would have worn in the 50s, yet still has a relevant appeal. It can be worn casually or make a strong statement at work or when out to dinner. It’s effortless and understated while still managing to turn heads.

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” —Leonardo da Vinci

On Me: Express Top

Urban Jeans

White Mt. Flats

Marc Jacobs Sunnies

Nine West Purse