what to wear on 4th of july

Due to a request to do a Fourth of July themed post, I decided to create some outfits inspired by the holiday! These would be great for many festivities surrounding the fourth!

Swimsuit, Cover-up, Hat, Sunglasses, Bracelet, Sandals

I think of a nice evening on a boat when I see this outfit! I love this bright blue swimsuit, which would look cool peeking out underneath the crochet of the cover-up. [My friend has this exact cover-up and loves it! It looks really good on too.] Metallic accessories keep it neutral but classic, and the floppy hat adds some extra glam.

Chambray shirt, Shorts, Flip flops, Swimsuit, Sunglasses

I had to use this adorable flag bikini from a previous post - it is perfect for the fourth! This outfit is more casual and layers a chambray shirt over the swimsuit with denim shorts - what material is more American than denim? The pockets on the shorts have glittery stars sticking out the bottom (I couldn't resist) and I added some blue and white flip flops and red wayfarers to complete the look. Perfect for running around at a barbecue by the lake!

Tank, Shorts, Sunglasses, Watch, Nail Polish, Flip Flops

The red, sparkly nail polish inspired this whole outfit. It's like a firework on your nails! I matched the nail polish with a bright red tank and denim shorts and added classic accessories to not go overboard. I love the pearl and bow details on the flip flops and the leather band of the watch.

Let's celebrate the Fourth of July in style!

'merica

xo-ally

3 bustiers and how to wear them

Bustier tops are climbing up the trend latter this spring! With the crop top in full swing, bustier tops (sometimes called bralets) are being worn in many different ways - with hi-low skirts, high-waisted shorts, colored denim...there are plenty of options! As always, the lovely Topshop is ahead of the curve and presents plenty of fashion-forward bustier tops. Here are three bustier tops from Topshop that I adore:

One rule about bustiers: always wear them with a high-waisted bottom! The idea is to show a hint of midriff without exposing your whole stomach. Also keep this in mind when deciding where to wear them: a date with your boyfriend or a summer afternoon getting froyo with friends is fine, but to class or a work event may not be.

Here are three outfit options to wear with the bustiers above:

Top, Skirt, Ring, Watch, Shoes

This look is so glam and just fierce!! The skirt and top both have exposed frontal zippers and wild prints. These shoes are just spectacular, and the watch is structured and cool. Infuse a hint of sweetness with a floral ring, and the outfit is complete! Just add some confidence and prepare to get double-takes on the street from your fab outfit!

Top, Skirt, Sunglasses, Bracelet, Flats, Wedges

This outfit incorporates so many trends. The bustier top alone is ultra trendy, but the high-waisted hi-low skirt adds another fashion-forward element. Cat eye sunglasses shade your eyes from the sun while looking mysterious, and the filigree bracelet makes for an intricate, yet simple, accessory. I have two shoe options for this outfit. The straw flats would be great if you'd wear this outfit in the sun all day, or say, to a festival. The green wedges punch up the outfit and add some unexpected color!

Top, Shorts, Hat, Necklace, Ring, Shoes

This look is something I would totally wear. I love the girly floral print in the bustier and the pink stripes on the shorts. The pink stripes play off the pink flowers in the top, which shows that there is no need to fear 

mixing patterns! Neutral Sperrys keep the look casual and comfortable, and the necklace and ring add some extra dazzle. Top it off with a fedora to finish the look!

Which outfit option if your favorite? Would you wear a bustier this summer? How do you feel about the trend? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

xo

pastels vs. neon

Neon has been huge lately. Everywhere from simple items to dressier pieces to activewear has been hit by the neon trend.

This spring, pastels are making a comeback.

Pastels have never gone out of style, but the classic spring shades are beginning to outshine their loud-colored counterparts. I even saw a light pink car outside of Safeway! With Easter coming up this Sunday, I only thought it would be appropriate to showcase some fashionable items that are heading headfirst into pastels!

Colored Denim
Brighter vs. Lighter

Left, Right

Nail Polish
Neon sparkles vs. Light grass green

Left, Right

Shoes
Sunny bright vs. Poppy pale pink

Left, Right

xo