Happy Tuesday, ladies! The holiday weekend is over, and it's time to get back to it. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I hope you had a wonderful 4th and a chance to spend it and cherish it with the ones you love. I've got an all-Talbots outfit today with some of the items I've had my eye on all Summer long. We're sliding back into the week slowly today with a casual but stylish way to wear linen pants.
Today's featured items are a v-neck slub and wide leg linen pants from Talbots
The outfit is modeled, and I pulled together 2 alternates
The outfit is shoppable via a text or image widget
Each alternate is shoppable via a text widget
Today, I've paired a v-neck slub with a pair of wide leg linen pants. They work great together, with the color of the pants picking up the details of the slub. (And If you're looking for a more natural look, the pants also come in flax.)
I've elevated the causal look of the outfit just a bit with a pair of metallic sandals (old, similars here and here).
I keep going back to linen this Summer. Given the extreme heat, we've had here in Athens, the breathability of linen has been a lifesaver.
Wide-leg pants are in this year, making these pants not only comfortable and versatile but completely on-trend. Make sure to check out the alternate stylings today: I've got my eye on a multi-colored square neck shell, also from Talbots, that I think would work perfectly with these pants.
Left Board: Square Neck Shell (Talbots) | Gia Seersucker Nappa Sandals (Talbots) | Mckenna Handbag (Talbots) Right Board: Riviera Linen Blouse (J.McLaughlin) | Eyelet Perforated Leather High Block Heel Sandals (Ann Taylor) | Knotted Crossbody Bag (Madewell) | Denim Mahoney Crop Chore Jacket (Madewell)
Yesterday, we celebrated the 4th of July over here on the blog. Click the title or image below to read the article.
This post sponsored by Nordstrom
Summer has officially arrived and with it summerlike temps. Athens already has several 100-degree days in the books! Can’t imagine what August will look like! But when the going gets tough the tough reach for an easy breezy outfit. Eileen Fisher is a favorite brand that knows how to deliver chic yet comfy outfits. Today, I'm talking the linen outfits I'm loving for Summer.
Today's featured item is an Eileen Fisher linen jumpsuit from Nordstrom
The jumpsuit is modeled, and I also pulled together 2 alternates
The jumpsuit is shoppable via a text or image widget
Each alternate is shoppable via a text widget
Today, I chose a wide-leg linen jumpsuit that helps me beat the heat in style. The jumpsuit is oversized by design which comes in handy on a hot summer day. So don’t worry about looking sloppy or dare I say it, “Too big?!” As an alternative, this organic linen shirt dress has the exact same fabric with a boxy silhouette.
Nordstrom always has a great selection of Eileen Fisher and I can’t wait to see what selections they’ll offer during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale that’s just around the corner. But I love to wear Eileen Fisher, especially during the summer months as they have a wide selection of clothes made from organic cotton and linen. Natural fibers help your body breathe as it doesn’t trap the heat like synthetic fabrics.
Last summer I picked up this gingham organic linen dress that I LOVE! This spring I chose a Mandarin collar cap sleeve linen dress which I wear on style repeat and now this cute jumpsuit that came in handy on my trip to Charleston. I’m also a big fan of Eileen Fisher shoes and jumped at the chance to add these tumbled leather slides to my wardrobe. The neutral color goes with everything but the footbed is cushioned and gives ample support.
Left Board: Gingham Organic Linen Dress (Eileen Fisher, Nordstrom) | Trista Sneaker (Kate Spade, Nordstrom) | Willow Leather Tote (Coach, Nordstrom) Right Board: Crinkled Organic Linen Shirtdress (Eileen Fisher, Nordstrom) | Mirabella Sandal (Dansko, Nordstrom) | Fabia Leather Bucket Bag (Vince Camuto)
A few of my favorite things about Nordstrom.
A big thank you to Nordstrom for this sponsored post. and thank you, lovely readers, for supporting the brands that allow me to bring you fresh ideas.
This morning, Kelly showed you her favorite petite dresses for Summer. Click the title or image below to read the article.
Today, I'm giving you a continued tour of Charleston, SC. It’s always fun to play tourist, especially in a city full of history like Charleston.
An easy way to learn the local folklore is with a guided tour. A horse-drawn carriage beats the heat if you’re not up to a walking or ghost tour that’s in abundance in Charleston. And don’t worry about the horses.
These magnificent creatures are well cared for. As a matter of fact, the Belgian and Percheron draft horses live on a 65-acre farm, eat 40,000 calories per day, and are provided a daily dose of Guinness beer!
So let's get started!
Today, I'm giving you a continued tour of my trip to Charleston with a focus on Boone Hall & Plantation
I'm also showing you one of my dinner outfits featuring a dress from J.Crew
The dress is shoppable via a text or image widget
I've put together two alternates, both shoppable via a text widget
June is hot and hotter in Charleston. Every afternoon we would come back to the condo after a day of touring or shopping to take a shower and short nap before we headed out to dinner.
That night we went to Hyman’s I wore a simple white denim dress from J.Crew. I ordered an 8 Tall to give me a bit more length but regular, petite, and tall are available. This dress also comes in linen.
Camel and white is a classic color combo that’s perfect any time of year but especially on a hot summer day. Out came a tan handbag and sandals (old, similar here and here) and a few accessories that reinforced the color scheme.
Boone Hall and Plantation was founded in 1681 when Englishman Major John Boone came to Charleston. In 1743 his son planted Oak trees arranging them in two evenly spaced rows. Today, the majestic trees meet overhead and form a natural corridor that’s spectacular.
Yesterday, I gave you a tour of the first part of my trip to Charleston, SC. Click the title or image below to read the article.
This post is sponsored by Nordstrom
Summer is upon us, and summer weddings are in full swing. Weddings are such a happy occasion. What fun to put on our party duds and toast the new life the bride and groom are about to embark on. And speaking of party duds, do I have a wedding guest outfit perfect for this Summer.
And it won’t break the bank since it's from Nordstrom Made brand Open Edit from Nordstrom! Plus, the blazer and pants can be worn together or separately. So, let's get right down to it.
Today's featured item is a wedding guest outfit with matching blazer and pants
The outfit is modeled, and I pulled together 2 alternates
The outfit is shoppable via a text or image widget
Each alternate is shoppable via a text widget
It's no secret that I'm loving wide-leg pants this season. This pair of pants from Open Edit (Nordstrom) come in three different colors. I went with purple bloom to match my blazer, but if you're looking for a neutral, make sure to check out the pants in beige. (Also, see my alternative stylings.)
I've paired the pants with a 4" heel to avoid any drag. I went with strappy mules, but a heel would work equally as well too.
I continue to be all about linen this Spring & Summer. Yesterday, I featured a linen shirt; today, a linen blazer. Blazers are perfect Spring-to-Summer transition pieces, and can easily be dressed up or down.
Of you’ve heard me say it once, you’ve heard me say it a thousand times - accessories are a girl’s best friend. Accessories unleash your personal style, taste, and preferences but they also offer unlimited opportunities to mix and match your wardrobe.
A single accessory, whether it be a bag or a scarf, can lift any outfit and take it to the next level.
Take a white blouse. It’s a blank canvas. Add a pair of jeans and you have an ordinary everyday outfit. But add a fabulous handbag, a pair of heels, a statement necklace or scarf and now you have a polished ensemble.
Accessories are always the icing on the cake. And don’t be afraid to invest in a silk scarf, luxury handbag, or jewelry. These are the items that stand the test of time and will be on rinse and repeat for years and years.
Left Board: Denim Jacket (Lee, Nordstrom) | Whisper Cotton V-Neck (Madewell, Nordstrom) | Vernisa Strappy Sandal (Vince Camuto, Nordstrom) | Mini Cinch Clutch (Loeffler Randall, Nordstrom) Right Board: High Waist Ankle Flare Jeans (Paige, Nordstrom) | Hazel Pointed Toe Pump (Sam Edelman, Nordstrom) | Everyday Satin Camisole (Nordstrom) | McGraw Leather Crossbody Bag (Tory Burch, Nordstrom)
A few of my favorite things about Nordstrom.
A big thank you to Nordstrom for this sponsored post. And thank you, lovely readers, for supporting the brands that allow me to bring you fresh ideas.
Yesterday, I showed you how I'm wearing shorts this summer. Click the title or image below to read the article.
Happy Monday, ladies! I've got to say it again: it's good to be back. We kicked off our Spring-to-Summer transition yesterday with How to Build a Summer Capsule Wardrobe. The guide featured 26 different items from multiple retailers, including today's focus: J.McLaughlin. I pulled together the cutest monochromatic shirt & short combo from them. (And because I'm never one to shy away from a little fashion controversy, today I'm talking how to wear shorts over 50.)
Although J.McLaughlin is not a regular on the blog, they're having a massive Spring Sale with up to 40% off. I spent the weekend combing through it and pulled together my top 10 favorites from the sale. They're all featured in an easy-to-shop widget at the end of the post. So stick around for that.
Today's featured items are a linen shirt and short combo from J.McLaughlin
The outfit is modeled, and I pulled together 2 alternates
The outfit is shoppable via a text or image widget
Each alternate is shoppable via a text widget
My top 10 picks from J.McLaughln's (up to) 40% off sale are featured at the end of the post
When I think Summer, I think linen. Such a breathable fabric that is perfect for warm, humid climates like Georgia. One of today's featured items is a linen shirt from J.McLaughln. I went with pink, but the shirt comes in over 10 different colors/patterns.
I went matchy-matchy today with a monochromatic outfit---untucked for that perfect summer casual look. But this shirt will work with just about anything you can imagine: jeans, jean shorts, and pants all come to mind. (Scroll down for some alternative ideas on how to style this shirt.)
I'm loving these Maise shorts in gingham, also from J.McLaughlin. They evoke memories of summers growing up in the early 60s and bring a smile to my face. They sit right above the waist and are super comfy---perfect for the 85 degrees we've been having the past few weeks.
Shorts made my top 10 summer essentials this year. Truth is, they make my list every year. I can't do without them, especially in the Georgia heat. But much like distressed denim, short length can ruffle a lot of feathers. I'm a big believer in wearing what is comfortable, and what is comfortable for some is not comfortable for all.
I have to call out this straw tote, also from J.Mclaughlin. It's such a versatile piece that can easily be dressed up and down. For my money, J.McLaughlin and Madewell are putting out some of the best handbags this year.
Yesterday, Kelly shared 6 recipes perfect for a Memorial Day BBQ. Click the title or image below to read the article.
Happy, happy Friday, ladies! We’re marching through the merry month of May at a brisk pace. The weather in Georgia has taken us on a roller coaster ride this past week. Last Saturday, my family attended a Braves game. It was chilly enough for a jacket! Although I shan’t complain. Looking at the forecast, we’ll be in the 90s next week. Looks like we’re going to jump straight into summer this year with just a brief glimpse of spring. Oh, the weather is a fickle creature for sure. I’m packing my bags today and heading to Tybee on Saturday, so I think summer temps will be A-Okay while I soak up all that vitamin sea. Before I head out the door, let’s take a moment and savor every moment this beautiful Friday has to offer! Life is short, life is fleeting, and it can change on a dime. It’s important that we make every day count.
I so appreciate all the a-ma-zing readers that tune in every day to check in on how we can age with grace, strength, and beauty. But what, exactly, is aging with grace, strength, and beauty? Am I talking about aging gracefully? This generally means acting your age, wearing age-appropriate clothing (apparently, some women think clothes have ages sewn into the label), wearing age-appropriate hair, and doing age-appropriate activities that don’t seem like you’re trying too hard. God forbid we would try too hard, right?! Who made up these rules? Here’s an interesting quote:
“Aging gracefully" entails walking a tightrope between a youth-obsessed society, which tells us that our value declines as we age, and a culture that says nothing is as uncool as desperation, the fervent desire for something we can’t have.”
Sounds exhausting! This is why I look at aging a bit differently. Age isn’t something to defeat and conquer; it’s not my goal to “look ten years younger” or “age-appropriate,” although we should strive to be the best version of ourselves. In my mind, aging is all about embracing and navigating all the changes age brings with grace, strength, and beauty. It has more to do with attitude than anything else.
Attitude is everything, especially as we age. Life is a gift, and we need to treat it as such. When we reach a certain age, we understand all too well that anything can be taken from us at any moment, including our health and wealth. But one thing that can never be taken away is our attitude; it’s our freedom to choose how we respond to life and to others.
Here are a few things I’ve discovered in the past 63 years: I no longer have to prove anything to anyone. And I don’t carry grudges anymore. I place value on wisdom and authenticity. And I try to live mindfully. My body may be deteriorating even though I’m giving it my best shot to keep it healthy. And that goes for my brain too. Yes, I have a few more wrinkles at age 40 or even 50, so I’ll keep slathering on skincare products to help me look my best. But my attitude has improved through the years. I’ve let go of judgment and criticism and live purposefully, to be present, live in the moment, and not worry about the past or what could go wrong in the future. I hope you’ll join me on this journey they call aging ‘cuz it ain't for sissies! And I hope grace, strength, and beauty abound in your life.
Oscar and I wish you a lovely weekend! TGIF!
Today's featured item is a pair of camo pants from Anthropologie
The pants are modeled
The outfit is shoppable via a text or image widget
Cargo pants are on trend this spring and summer. These paper bag waist pant from Anthropologie will be on repeat all summer long due to their comfort. It has an elastic waistband! Need I say more?! What’s better than that, especially on a Friday?! I added a white ribbed tank tee from Banana Republic and a white linen shirt from J.Crew. This time of year, a light layer comes in handy!
6 ounces cured meat (I like salami)
1 jar olives, drained (I like Greek olives)
1 can artichoke hearts (sliced in quarters if they are large)
Spinach
Toothpicks
Assemble salami, olives, artichokes, and spinach on a toothpick.
3/4 cup limoncello, chilled
8 to 10 mint leaves, plus springs for garnish
1 cup cantaloupe cubes
1 cup honeydew melon cubes
1 (750-ml) bottle pinot grigio, chilled
In a pitcher, combine the limoncello and mint. Use a long wooden spoon to gently bruise the mint. Add both melons and stir to combine, lightly pressing the melons as you stir. Add the pinot grigio.
Cover and chill the sangria until ready to serve, at least an hour or overnight. Serve in glasses filled with ice, making sure to scoop some of the melon into each glass, and garnish with mint sprigs.
Since it’s sandal season I decided to slip into brown sandals we’ve featured as a Real vs. Deal. Yep, these sandals are patterned after the famous Hermès Oran sandal that never goes out of style. They’ve been around for twenty years and are still going strong.
Yesterday, I put together my favorite items from Kohl's weekend summer sale. Click the title or image below to read the article.
Hello, happy Thursday to you! To me, summer fashion isn’t complete if linen isn’t a big part of the equation. Especially since moving to Georgia! In the heat of summer, wearing a dress or skirt has been my go-to date night outfit. But with linen, you can wear pants and a blazer, look polished and feel cool enough to sit outside for dinner al fresco. I love having options! So today, I'm going to show you how to wear linen suit separates this summer.
Today's featured items are linen suit separates from J.Crew Factory
Kelly modeled the suit, and pulled together 2 alternates
The outfit is shoppable via a text or image widget
Each alternate is shoppable via a text widget
These Linen Drawstring Pants from J.Crew Factory are just the ticket. I love these pants because while they are pretty casual, you can easily dress them up with a Linen Blazer in matching white, some strappy sandals and a flowy camisole. The petite sizing is spot on; I am wearing petite 0.
This is my first white blazer. For my introduction into the world of white blazers, a summertime linen blazer is the perfect way to start. This version from J.Crew Factory is at a perfect price point and it is made well. As with the pants, the petite fits true to size; I am wearing petite 0.
If white is not for you, this Linen Drawstring Pant and Linen Blazer combo each come in hot pink and light pink – fun colors for spring and summer.
Linen-Cotton Drawstring Pant (J.Crew Factory) | Linen-Cotton Holland Blazer (J.Crew Factory) | Bliss Silk Camisole (Banana Republic) | Everday Satin Camisole (Nordstrom, similar) | Scoop Neck Cami (Ann Taylor, similar) | Kiera Lugsole Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Loli Ankle-Strap Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Kiera Mule Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Mini Satchel (HOBO, similar) | Tote (HOBO, similar) | Shoulder Bag (HOBO, similar)
Linen is a great summer fabric to mix up with something shiny like silk or satin. It’s a fun play on textures that is cool and refreshing, perfect for summer. A popular item, this washable silk camisole from J.Crew is mostly sold out already, but here are three other options, in a range of colors.
(Nordstrom) Similar Camisole | (Ann Taylor) Similar Camisole | (Banana Republic) Silk Camisole
Linen-Cotton Drawstring Pant (J.Crew Factory) | Linen-Cotton Holland Blazer (J.Crew Factory) | Bliss Silk Camisole (Banana Republic) | Everday Satin Camisole (Nordstrom, similar) | Scoop Neck Cami (Ann Taylor, similar) | Kiera Lugsole Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Loli Ankle-Strap Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Kiera Mule Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Mini Satchel (HOBO, similar) | Tote (HOBO, similar) | Shoulder Bag (HOBO, similar)
I have had this particular pair of Madewell sandals for about 7 years and they still look and feel great. With a block heel, they are comfortable and easy to walk in. A comfortable heeled sandal in a neutral light brown or tan is a perfect warm-weather option; they go with virtually everything! I have rounded up a few more currents, but similar Madewell styles.
(Madewell) Similar Kiera Lugsole Sandals | (Madewell) Similar Loli Ankle Strap Sandals | (Madewell) Similar Kiera Mule Sandals
I am really shopping my closet for accessories today! My top handle bag is from another company I really like for handbags and wallets, HOBO. Their designs are interesting and the leather is unbelievably beautiful. This style is from 2007/2008, but they have some similar current designs that are gorgeous.
(HOBO) Similar Sheila Handbag | (HOBO) Similar Darling Small Satchel | (HOBO) Similar Giorgia Convertible Bag
Thank you all for stopping by today, I hope you have a wonderful weekend! xo Kelly
Linen-Cotton Drawstring Pant (J.Crew Factory) | Linen-Cotton Holland Blazer (J.Crew Factory) | Bliss Silk Camisole (Banana Republic) | Everday Satin Camisole (Nordstrom, similar) | Scoop Neck Cami (Ann Taylor, similar) | Kiera Lugsole Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Loli Ankle-Strap Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Kiera Mule Sandal (Madewell, similar) | Mini Satchel (HOBO, similar) | Tote (HOBO, similar) | Shoulder Bag (HOBO, similar)
I'm starting a new round of FASTer Way to Fat Loss on May 23rd. Click the title or image below to read the article.
Happy Tuesday, ladies. The week is underway, and it’s already turning out to be a busy one. We’ve been focused a lot on Spring dresses and skirts lately, so I wanted to shift gears a bit. Variety is the spice of life, as they say. I picked up a pair of Ralph Lauren linen pants a few weeks ago. And if you’re like me and gravitate towards classic style, I think you’re going to like them too. I couldn’t wait to style them. Here’s what I came up with.
Today’s outfit is clean, classy, and classic: a pairing between cream button-up and linen twill pleated pants. Both the top and bottom are from Ralph Lauren and are available at Macy’s. We’ve been all about color lately, so I wanted to mix things up a bit with a monochromatic, neutral outfit.
Crepe Button Up (Ralph Lauren, available at Macy’s) | Linen Twill Pleated Pants (available at Ralph Lauren 0 -18, available at Macy’s limited sizes | Cap toe pumps (limited sizes from Ralph Lauren, available at Macy’s) Full selection at Zappos | Canvas Embossed Leather Belt (Ralph Lauren) | Station necklace (Tory Burch old, similar here and here) | Bracelets from Nest | Handbag (old similar here and here)
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Crepe Button Up (Ralph Lauren, available at Macy’s) | Linen Twill Pleated Pants (available at Ralph Lauren 0 -18, available at Macy’s limited sizes | Cap toe pumps (limited sizes from Ralph Lauren, available at Macy’s) Full selection at Zappos | Canvas Embossed Leather Belt (Ralph Lauren) | Station necklace (Tory Burch old, similar here and here) | Bracelets from Nest | Handbag (old similar here and here)
Given the simplicity of the outfit, accessories are what push it over the age. Leather highlights from this canvas embossed belt are subtle and effective. And a canvas shoulder bag like this one from Coach (old similar here and here) add visual interest.
Crepe Button Up (Ralph Lauren, available at Macy’s) | Linen Twill Pleated Pants (available at Ralph Lauren 0 -18, available at Macy’s limited sizes | Cap toe pumps (limited sizes from Ralph Lauren, available at Macy’s) Full selection at Zappos | Canvas Embossed Leather Belt (Ralph Lauren) | Station necklace (Tory Burch old, similar here and here) | Bracelets from Nest | Handbag (old similar here and here)
Yesterday, we featured a beautiful olive-colored tiered midi dress from Neiman’s. I showed you three different ways to wear it, including how to create beautiful, Spring color combinations.
In case you missed it, yesterday, we announced Kelly Djalali coming on as a regular contributor. Here’s what that means.
On Tuesdays, Kelly will be posting an entry to our Daily Looks feed. She’ll post an OOTD and you can shop those outfits easily through the shop widget below the photo. Being of a smaller stature, at 5 feet tall and 105 pounds, Kelly will create fresh looks with a focus on classic style for petites.
On Thursdays, Kelly will be contributing a full-length fashion-related post. Whether she’s modeling outfits or giving you tips on how to build her capsule wardrobes, you can expect the same great content you’ve come to expect from SAACA.
Kelly will be reviving her Kelly’s Kitchen column on Saturdays. Each week, you can expect a delicious, easy-to-follow recipe.
is there anything that says “summer” more than linen? it’s one of my favorite fabrics, and i wear it liberally during the hot months here in Athens. linen is cool and fresh, and it comes in just about any way you could want to wear it: shirts, pants, dresses, shorts, and the like. i’ve rounded up some of my favorite looks to show you exactly why i love to wear linen.
there’s a little hatitude today. and a whole lot of linen clothes for spring. as a matter of fact, linen is the perfect fabric all summer long. the fibers are quite strong. it’s more absorbent and dries faster than cotton. plus, linen will keep you cool and fresh in spite of those hot and humid temps. i am loving this white duster which is the perfect third layer. it’s lightweight with an open front and has a longer length. i chose a drop shoulder white linen tee to tuck underneath. it looks fantastic with wide-leg blue and white stripe linen pants. but this baby will get lot’s of wear this summer. white goes with everything. what i particularly liked about this tee is the looser fit without looking sloppy.
linen pants low | linen pants medium | linen pants high
perfect linen shirt | linen popover | linen balloon sleeve top
today’s ootd is from one of my all-time favorite designers. if you’ve been following the blog for any length of time, you just might know who it is. yep. good old Ralph Lauren is a go-to brand of mine. his classic style aesthetic makes my heart go pitter patter. when i spied this striped linen shirt and coordinating shorts, i knew it would make a great summer outfit. but since they’re separates i can mix and match each item to my heart’s content. there’s nothing better than hard-working items hanging in your closet.
linen chambray belted short | linen high-rise short |line drawstring shorts
linen split neck shell | linen popover | linen rolled-cuff tee
nothing screams summer like linen. it’s a fabric both soft and forgiving, if not a bit wrinkly. but if you can look past that imperfection it is perfection. especially if you’re trying to beat the heat. a simple sheath dress is also a go-to item for me when summertime rolls around. in my opinion, tall or short, lean or round, a sheath dress will serve you well, and take you many places during the workweek or preserved for casual weekend wear. add heels, pair it with ballet flats, or don sandals. the choices are unlimited. vibrant summer colors keep the look fresh and clean.
linen sheath dress | linen sheath dress 2 | linen flare dress | linen resume dress
linen sheath dress | linen sheath dress 2 | linen flare dress | linen resume dress
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