San Diego Favorites

I just got back from visiting family down in San Diego. Though I don’t do it often, I love exploring new cities. One of my resolutions for 2017 is to travel more! Here are some of the places we went to, food we ate, and overall recommendations for anyone planning a trip to San Diego.

Food:

The Crack Shack

Our first stop was The Crack Shack, and it did not disappoint. Nothing sounds better than a fried chicken sandwich when you’re starving.

Basic Pizza

Basic Pizza

Basic Pizza was the perfect dinner spot before a night out on the town. Their pizzas are massive, but that didn’t stop us from finishing every last bite! Basic’s motto is all in the name–simple, classic, and hipster. Without trying too hard their atmosphere is  contemporary, yet kid friendly. They even have a connecting bar that adds to its appeal.

pacific beach fish shop

pacific beach

You can’t visit San Diego without eating at Pacific Beach Fish Shop. Joel and I were introduced to this place the last time we came down, and the yummy shrimp tacos had us coming back for more! Once you try their tacos, no other fish tacos will compare. Not to mention, it’s located in Pacific Beach–the perfect location to walk off the tacos you just inhaled.

Drinks:

karl Strauss brewery

karl Strauss brewery

karl Strauss brewery

Karl Strauss is a brewery staple of San Diego. There are many breweries to choose from, but you can’t go wrong with this one! Though I’m not a huge beer person, my favorite sample was the Red Trolley. It paired nicely with their duck fat pretzel bites.

prohibition

prohibition

One of my favorite experiences of the trip was getting to go to San Diego’s original Speakeasy–Prohibition. Only the locals know about this joint, as you have to enter through a misleading hidden door. The steep staircase acts as a time machine that transports you back to a different era. They have a unique menu, live music, and a strict dress code. What more could you ask for?

Activities:

San Diego Harbor Cruise

The Hornblower Harbor Cruise was the perfect way to really see and learn about San Diego. There is nothing like the view from a boat.

hotel del

hotel del

Ice Skating and San Diego usually aren’t two things you would think go together, but at the Hotel del Coronado they do! Over the holidays they have a fun ice skating rink overlooking the water. It’s the perfect excuse to visit the magnificent hotel that holds so much history.

USS Midway

Speaking of history, the USS Midway Museum is a great way to spend an afternoon, or the whole day! There is so much to see and do that it could take at least 5 hours to get through the whole ship. They even have simulator rides that give you a taste of what being a pilot was actually like. If you have the time, definitely check this place out.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.” -Saint Augustine

Denim

In my opinion, there are really only five styles of Jeans you need to complete your wardrobe.

Levi's Jeans

Dark Wash High Rise Skinny

(The Versatile Jean: dress it up or down depending on the day or occasion)

Gap Jeans

Light Wash Straight

(The Everyday Jean: perfect for running errands or meeting a friend for coffee)

Boyfriend Jeans

Light Wash Boyfriend

(The Weekend Jean: these jeans have enough stretch for a long walk or moving day)

Black Jeans

Black High Rise Skinny

(The Night Out Jean: whether it’s date night or girls’ night, you’re covered)

Flare Jeans

Dark Wash High Rise Flare

(The Personality Jean: for when you feel like something different and just want to play a little)

Valentine’s Day Dress Sale

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Luckily for us, ASOS is having a dress sale! Here are a few of my favorite pieces:

ASOS Dress Sale

AX Paris Quilted Swing Dress Was $55.oo Now $38.00

ASOS valentine's day dresses

PETITE Wiggle Dress With Split Front Was $77.00 Now $38.00

Valentine's Day Dress

Soft Halter Pencil Dress Was $100.00 Now $30.00

Valentine's Day Dresses

Keepsake Pretender Dress in Red Plum Was $266.00 Now $152.00

“There is no remedy for love, but to love more.” -Henry David Thoreau

Estée Lauder

estee lauder lipstick

Estée Lauder has been my go-to lipstick brand lately. It’s a classic brand with classic colors.

Above I’m wearing Pure Color in Scarlet Siren:

estee lauder pure color scarlet siren

I’m also a fan of Pure Color Envy Matte in Commanding & Kendall Jenner’s new shade in Restless:

estee lauder lipstick

estee lauder lipstick

All of these colors remind me of Old Hollywood Glamour. Sometimes lipstick is all you need to complete an outfit.

Abercrombie Striped Tee, Levi's Jeans, Urban belt, Zara Heels

On Me: Abercrombie Striped Tee, Levi’s Jeans, Urban belt, Zara Heels

Grad Guest

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

If you are invited to a graduation, but don’t want to outshine the graduate or wear something uncomfortable, then I recommend finding an accent piece to pair with classic basics.

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

My accent piece was this eye catching top from Urban.

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

This top can stand alone! The color and style is appropriate for an outdoor ceremony, and I felt like myself in it–the most important aspect of an accent piece.

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

A dark wash pair of jeans are perfect for this occasion as well. Just the right amount of casual and classy for a graduation.

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

If you live in the fog like I do, I highly recommend bringing something to keep you warm.

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

As long as it is nicer than a hoodie, you are safe.

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

Onto the shoes…make sure they have a thick enough heel to wear on grass or turf! I prefer something with an open toe for this season.

Urban Top, Gap Jacket, Levi's Jeans, Nordstrom Sunnies, Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

Lastly, remember your shades. Perfect for family photos, and they keep you from squinting at the sun while trying to spot your grad.

On Me: Urban Top

Gap Jacket

Levi’s Jeans

Very Volatile Los Angeles Shoes

Nordstrom Sunnies