(NOTE: Since today is the end of the month I usually would be posting THE DAMAGE this morning… but I didn't buy anything in May, so check back next month for June's shopping update!)
Friday, May 30, 2014
swim-tastic for summer!
Pool lounging and beach frolicking season is here! No matter what your swim style, "boho babe", "glamour puss" or "gal next door" I've got you covered with all your swim style needs…
Thursday, May 29, 2014
my everyday style: a summer sweater!
This summer I am totally digging a lightweight summer sweater. They are a touch more flattering and refined than tanks and tees and go great with a pair of shorts for running errands, etc especially when you are in and out of air conditioning all day.
I randomly found this one at H&M recently and I love it's shirttail hem that is longer in the back and a little shorter in the front and it's boxy shape keeps you cool since it's not clinging to you. This is one of those tops I would go back and buy multiples of for sure. I've even worn this sweater with an oxford underneath… so it layers well too for cooler days.
Shorts so often get paired with tees and sandals - so I thought it would be fun to wear flats and a sweater instead. Sometimes mixing things up is just what we need in our wardobe to keep it feeling fresh and new - even when wearing tried and true pieces.
photos by Jennifer Ketchum
Details:
Sunglasses, Ray Ban
Sweater, H&M - only $19.95!
Shorts, Gap
Bag, Sole Society (old but similar or similar on sale)
Watch, Daniel Wellington - ℅
Earrings, Dear Pru
see you around...
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
4 ways to style the denim skirt for summer!
I'm sure I've mentioned before that a denim skirt is on my summer wish list. It's such a classic and simple piece, especially for denim lovers like myself, that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Here I styled up a denim skirt four ways to show how versatile it really can be for all your summer activities. Also keep in mind that this would be a great packing piece for summer trips since it can be styled so many different ways!
for the beach look: denim skirt, swim suit top - on sale! & bottom, t-shirt - on sale!, flip flops, clutch - on sale!
see you around...
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
my everyday style: break out the whites!
I've cheated and worn white pants and shorts already this season but now that it's officially "whites" season I figured it was high time this little mini skirt came out to celebrate the season.
Summer arrived like a surprise party over the weekend… it's not that I'm not loving the celebration it's just hard to get my arms around the idea at the moment. You know? Going from cool/gloomy/kind of spring to 80's and sunny for four days straight is a shock to the system almost. But that is Michigan weather for you. Jarring, unforgiving and always keeping you on your toes.
So naturally we went heavy on the poolside cocktails, sunburns, ice cream sandwiches and s'mores this weekend. Summer is as summer does. How was your long weekend?
Summer arrived like a surprise party over the weekend… it's not that I'm not loving the celebration it's just hard to get my arms around the idea at the moment. You know? Going from cool/gloomy/kind of spring to 80's and sunny for four days straight is a shock to the system almost. But that is Michigan weather for you. Jarring, unforgiving and always keeping you on your toes.
So naturally we went heavy on the poolside cocktails, sunburns, ice cream sandwiches and s'mores this weekend. Summer is as summer does. How was your long weekend?
I would like to give a huge welcome to my new blogging partner in crime. Jennifer Ketchum is now photographing photos for my blog and I couldn't be happier! Together we are one dynamic duo that will (finally) be bringing outfit photos to this blog on the regular. For reals. I'm so happy she's here.
Details:
Chambray Top, J.Crew (similar less expensive)
Earrings, Baublebar
Shoes, Superga
see you around...
Saturday, May 24, 2014
shop the Memorial Day sales!
While I am planning some serious family time and total chill-laxing time this weekend I'm also hoping to squeeze in a little Memorial Day sale shopping as well! Sales this weekend are always CRAZY good and I've got a few items on my wish list that I would sure love to check off.
Here are three SUPER great sales that you won't want to miss this weekend…
Here are three SUPER great sales that you won't want to miss this weekend…
Barney's Warehouse Memorial Day sale: EXTRA 30% off all clothing, shoes, accessories, jewelry and select bags!
(above: blue/white striped scarf, J Brand white jeans, Army jacket, pink envelope clutch, nude sandals, orange/white wrap dress, sunglasses, Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C clutch, red bandana print scarf, SeaVee sneakers)
Bloomingdale's Big Brown Bag Memorial Day sale: SAVE 20 - 65% off select merchandise! Plus take an extra 20% off a great selection of sale and clearance items with code TAKE20 at Bloomingdales.com
(above: Sam Edelman brown sandals, Loeffler Randall clutch, Sam Edelman black sandals, striped varsity top, Current/Elliott boyfriend jeans, Rebecca Minkoff M.A.C tote, Tory Burch scarf, orange/white chevron tank, BCBG striped dress, Splendid striped maxi skirt)
Gap Memorial Day sale: 40% OFF regular priced items! Use code EVENT.
(above: chambray top, patch pocket shorts, striped top, red striped sandals, neon clutch, real straight jeans, fedora hat, striped top, rope sandals, striped maxi dress)
Friday, May 23, 2014
summer is here - you better be ready!
Can you believe Memorial Day weekend is finally upon us!?!? After the never ending winter it almost seems to good to be true…
But now that it is (un)officially summer I thought I would round up a few of my favorite summer pieces for inspiration… I sincerely hope you have the best first weekend of summer ever!
But now that it is (un)officially summer I thought I would round up a few of my favorite summer pieces for inspiration… I sincerely hope you have the best first weekend of summer ever!
seersucker swimsuit top & bottom, black linen tank, white maxi dress/cover up, sunglasses, sunscreen, sandals, sweatshirt, sunnylife beach radio (on my wish list!), denim shorts, striped tote bag (LOVE!), sun hat, striped beach towel, espadrille shoes
Have a fabulous weekend! We will be hanging at the beach and pool for the weekend… check me out on Instagram (user: JillGG), where I will be hanging for sure! What are you up to this weekend?
see you around...
Thursday, May 22, 2014
12 sandals to love this summer!
So the jury is still out on Birkenstocks for this season… I absolutely LOVED hearing all you gals' thoughts and opinions on the trend. So thank you to everyone that left comments here and on Facebook! If you didn't see the post or join in on the lively debate… check it out here!
If you aren't loving the Birkenstock trend… or even if you do love the trend but still want some other more refined sandals for summer, I've got the best of the best for you right here! There is something about sandals to me that are so fun to buy/collect/hoard in the summer. They don't take up a lot of room in your closet, they are available at all price points from super cheap (love me a $15 pair of sandals!) to the more investment side (nothing wrong with splurging on a swoon worthy pair!) of the price scale, they are so easy and fun to wear and the buying season is so quick for them - buy them now before they are gone… you know? Do you love buying sandals like me? Is it some weird addiction?
Here are just a few of my favorites this season… what are some of your favorites here?!?!
If you aren't loving the Birkenstock trend… or even if you do love the trend but still want some other more refined sandals for summer, I've got the best of the best for you right here! There is something about sandals to me that are so fun to buy/collect/hoard in the summer. They don't take up a lot of room in your closet, they are available at all price points from super cheap (love me a $15 pair of sandals!) to the more investment side (nothing wrong with splurging on a swoon worthy pair!) of the price scale, they are so easy and fun to wear and the buying season is so quick for them - buy them now before they are gone… you know? Do you love buying sandals like me? Is it some weird addiction?
Here are just a few of my favorites this season… what are some of your favorites here?!?!
So which are your favorites? I always love a simple and cheap pair like #5 and this year I really want a pair of navy sandals like #8. My investment pick? #12, they are so gorgeous!
see you around...
Wednesday, May 21, 2014
9 pieces/9 outfits… summer version!
My 9 pieces/9 outfits series never fails to be a popular one with you gals and also on Pinterest. Which tells me one thing, you gals are just like me in that you want to be able to mix and match your wardrobe as much as possible. Never is mixing and matching as easy as it is in the summer. With warm temps you need minimal layers and the pieces you love can be worn again and again with one another with absolutely no fuss.
Here I took some fun summer basics and mixed and matched them into 9 summer outfits…
Here I took some fun summer basics and mixed and matched them into 9 summer outfits…
the 9 pieces:
denim jacket, gingham top, white top, striped top, navy dress, striped maxi dress, denim shorts, navy shorts, white lace skirt
the accessories:
Like these types of posts? You can find more here...
see you around...
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
get #equipped for summer with Levi's 501 denim shorts!
My summer must haves?
Sunshine, popsicles, the Lake Michigan shoreline, rad sunglasses, fresh produce from the farmers market and of course… some classic denim shorts like the 501 from Levi's to wear all summer. My favorite style is "boomtown" - what's yours?
Levi's 501 denim shorts are perfect for all my favorite summer activities like the beach, the farmers market and spending time outdoors in general. Throw these shorts on over your swim suit, with a t-shirt and sneakers for bumming around on the weekends or with a cozy sweatshirts for cool summer evenings.
Be sure to snag your next pair of favorite summer shorts and find out more about colors, fits and details HERE!
Check out more denim & summer inspiration on Pinterest too!
Thanks to my friend's at Levi's for sponsoring today's story and making sure I'm #Equipped for summer!
Monday, May 19, 2014
the beloved birkenstock… yay or nay!?
The blog world has been quietly rumbling about the return of the beloved Birkenstock sandal for a few months now… but with the weather warming, your favorite bloggers wearing them and even J.Crew carrying them I think they are here to stay. Are you a fan? Yay or nay?
I'm still a little on the fence… while I love relaxed style and fashion I do tend to think this one is a maybe a little overly casual for me. But when I see these lovely ladies wearing them (sources found here) I almost can't help but be a little swayed by them. Plus, when the style gods hand you a "trend" like sweatshirts, sneakers and comfy sandals like Birkenstocks it almost doesn't seem right to turn away from them (while on the other hand stilettos are a trend I am fine passing on). Am I right?
I'm still a little on the fence… while I love relaxed style and fashion I do tend to think this one is a maybe a little overly casual for me. But when I see these lovely ladies wearing them (sources found here) I almost can't help but be a little swayed by them. Plus, when the style gods hand you a "trend" like sweatshirts, sneakers and comfy sandals like Birkenstocks it almost doesn't seem right to turn away from them (while on the other hand stilettos are a trend I am fine passing on). Am I right?
I think my favorite would be the classic black suede… what about you? Have a favorite?
Can't wait to wear them? Won't be caught dead in them?
Do tell!
see you around...
Friday, May 16, 2014
wear it now & later: striped maxi skirt!
I've got a striped maxi skirt on my wish list for spring and summer. I almost can't believe that I don't have one in my closet already. They seem to be so extremely versatile and the perfect casual skirt that you can pull on all summer.
Spring is showing it's face here in the midwest but it's not exactly warm everyday yet… here are four ways to style the striped maxi skirt. Two for now for while the days are still a little chilly and two for this summer when the temps are sunny and warm.
Spring is showing it's face here in the midwest but it's not exactly warm everyday yet… here are four ways to style the striped maxi skirt. Two for now for while the days are still a little chilly and two for this summer when the temps are sunny and warm.
wear it now looks:
wear it later looks:
Do you already own a striped maxi? How do you style it? Or will you be hopefully snagging one of your own this spring like me? Do tell!
If you like these types of posts… you can find more here!
see you around...
Thursday, May 15, 2014
what to pack: Europe in a carry on!
I recently had a reader email me that she and her husband are taking a trip to Europe and want to pack as light as they can for 10 days - ideally she would like to pack all her clothes for the trip in a carry on. This is totally do-able as long as you pack items that mix and match easily and you don't mind wearing your pieces multiple times.
Tips for packing for a trip in a carry-on:
- Pack a mix of items in the same color grouping. For instance here I focused on some blues, creams and blacks and threw in a few accent colors like coral and army green. This will help make the items you pack easy to mix and match into multiple outfits. You don't want to pack one shirt that only goes with one bottom. You want all the pieces to play friendly together so that you can make endless amounts of outfit combinations.
- Make sure you pack enough dark colored pieces to avoid potential stains. Spill your coffee on that bumpy train? Toddler sitting next to you on the flight with sticky fingers? Stains don't show as easily on dark colors as they do on light colors. Plan accordingly. Also, I love to pack a few small Tide stain wipes and keep them handy for stains. These work wonders!
- Try to choose a few items to pack that you could hand wash if need be. This would include a couple t-shirts, leggings or even casual shorts, that if need be could be washed in a sink with a little shampoo and hung out to dry overnight. If you are caught in a bind with clothes or are feeling like pieces are loosing their freshness this is a great diy way to keep your packing minimal.
- If the weather is cold or you need bulky items like a coat or boots, never put them in the suitcase. Always plan to wear those on your self as you travel by train/car/airplane. That will keep your suitcase manageable to pack and carry.
- Lastly, when packing for a trip to Europe in a carry-on be sure not to pack anything too precious. Cashmere, silk or carefully beaded items may not be practical for the long haul. Instead choose the work-horses of your closet and go with those pieces instead!
Here I chose 17 pieces that are super versatile and also that layer well to account for the days activities or the weather. These pieces could easily fit into a carry-on suitcase and make dozens of outfit combinations if you can get creative!
Tips for packing for a trip in a carry-on:
- Pack a mix of items in the same color grouping. For instance here I focused on some blues, creams and blacks and threw in a few accent colors like coral and army green. This will help make the items you pack easy to mix and match into multiple outfits. You don't want to pack one shirt that only goes with one bottom. You want all the pieces to play friendly together so that you can make endless amounts of outfit combinations.
- Make sure you pack enough dark colored pieces to avoid potential stains. Spill your coffee on that bumpy train? Toddler sitting next to you on the flight with sticky fingers? Stains don't show as easily on dark colors as they do on light colors. Plan accordingly. Also, I love to pack a few small Tide stain wipes and keep them handy for stains. These work wonders!
- Try to choose a few items to pack that you could hand wash if need be. This would include a couple t-shirts, leggings or even casual shorts, that if need be could be washed in a sink with a little shampoo and hung out to dry overnight. If you are caught in a bind with clothes or are feeling like pieces are loosing their freshness this is a great diy way to keep your packing minimal.
- If the weather is cold or you need bulky items like a coat or boots, never put them in the suitcase. Always plan to wear those on your self as you travel by train/car/airplane. That will keep your suitcase manageable to pack and carry.
- Lastly, when packing for a trip to Europe in a carry-on be sure not to pack anything too precious. Cashmere, silk or carefully beaded items may not be practical for the long haul. Instead choose the work-horses of your closet and go with those pieces instead!
Here I chose 17 pieces that are super versatile and also that layer well to account for the days activities or the weather. These pieces could easily fit into a carry-on suitcase and make dozens of outfit combinations if you can get creative!
1. chambray dress 2. striped top 3. sneakers 4. grey sweater 5. scarf 6. chambray shorts 7. black skirt 8. cream sweater 9. jeans 10. field jacket 11. black dress 12. denim jacket 13. black jeans 14. sandals 15. flats 16. coral t-shirt 17. tote
see you around...
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
my outfits according to instagram!
While I haven't had the chance to get in front of a real camera lens lately (unfortunately) - I have been documenting what I've been wearing from time to time on Instagram… (you can follow me there too! user: JillGG)
(above: chambray tunic, J.Crew| zipper jeans, Gap (similar) | sandals, Gap | necklace, J.Crew (similar)
(above: sandals, Sole Society | shorts, Old Navy - ℅ | top, H&M | earrings, Baublebar | sunglasses, BonLook)
see you around...
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
simple spring beauty!
My beauty routine is always quite simple… and for spring I have switched things up just a little bit to keep things fresh. Here is what my spring beauty routine looks like these days:
1. Dr Jart BB Cream… I have used this forever and LOVE it. It feels great on my skin and is super lightweight. I love the extra boost of SPF this offers too.
2. Jouer Luminizing Moisture Tint… it may seem like too much to do the BB Cream and this tinted moisturizer but the BB Cream covers well, but not with much color or depth. The Jouer brightens and freshens my face, again, without any weight.
3. NARS "Luster"… this blush is almost like a really soft bronzer… it's perfect for adding a little summer glow to my skin.
4. Well Rested is my newest obsession… it is not an under eye concealer but an under eye luminizer. It's brightens and lightens the skin under my eyes without the heaviness of a concealer. I seriously LOVE this stuff!
5. Stila All Over Shimmer is my next step… I put it on the very top of my cheekbones (outlining my blush in un upside-down U) and then right under my eyebrows. Just a little dab will do!
6. Bare Escentuals Luminzer… I either use this or the Stila Lumizer - never both. Since this is a powder getting the exact location on my face is a bit trickier… so when I use this I usually to a light dusting on my t-zone and tops of cheekbones.
7. Bare Escentuals Flawless Definition Volumizer… LOVE this. This mascara works great for me, it goes on nice and thick (not too thick though!) and really grows and thickens my lashes. I highly recommend this stuff.
8. Stila Lipglaze… I am a lipgloss connoisseur at this point! I feel like I have tried them all. And while I love a lot of different types of glosses, these continue to be my favorite hands down. As I like to say "Always Be Glossing" (ABG) ladies!
Monday, May 12, 2014
on my radar...
Just a few things that are on my radar these days….
1. Give me all the stripes this summer… Am I alone? (striped dress)
2. Warby Parker Sunglasses are on my wish list these days.
3. Have you checked out the Lou & Grey line from LOFT? It's so easy and relaxed. I love it. (space dyed tee)
4. Graphic tees are my latest addiction… love this one. ("masterpiece" tee)
5. If it has a tassel, it will catch my eye. (tassel bracelet)
6. Espadrilles are another item on my summer wish list. I love how relaxed they look and feel. (espadrille shoes)
7. Delicate gold jewelry is perfect for summer. (necklace)
8. Have you tried midi rings yet? I'm kind of feeling the vibe for summer. (rings)
10. How heavenly does Rose Body Oil sound as a summer moisturizer? Mmmmmm.
11. Fun little shorts… yes, please!
12. More from Lou & Grey… I love this skirt.
13. I finally need to break down and get a denim skirt. I love this one.
14. Again, I just love graphic tees this summer… this one has a cool pattern on the back!
If you like these posts… you can find more here!
see you around...
Friday, May 9, 2014
these bags are TOTES amazing!
I am loving a simple and classic tote these days… especially for the warmer months when I feel like I always need to have a million things in my bag! Books, juice boxes, spf, socks (why do I always have kids socks in my purse - am I alone!?), frisbees and who knows what else.
Have a great weekend ladies! And especially you mommas out there… have an amazing Mother's Day weekend!
see you around...
Thursday, May 8, 2014
3 ways to style sneakers this spring & summer!
Classic sneakers are one of the hottest trends this season… and not only are they adorable, but they are also really practical and comfortable as well. A few of my girlfriends were asking for advice on how to style them… these are my tips and tricks for styling sneakers this spring & summer.
- When choosing a pair of sneakers that you plan to wear as everyday shoes go for a style that is less running shoe or gym shoe. Think classic, retro, monochromatic colors or refined when choosing a sneaker. The three below are a safe bet and some of my favorite of the offerings this season.
- Let the sneakers add a little edge to your look. A summer dress with a pair of crisp white sneakers is a fun surprise and when paired with a denim jacket it's the perfect balance of casual and pulled together.
- To balance the casual feel of sneakers make sure to amp up your look with a little bling like a necklace, bracelet or handbag.
- Resist the urge to use this trend as a "fresh from the gym" look. Sweaty and unkempt is never stylish. Wear your sneakers intentionally to avoid looking sloppy.
- Lastly, ENJOY this trend - it's a super fun way to stay fresh and modern looking while letting your feet have a little rest from heels or sandals!
Below are three of my favorite sneaker styles this spring & summer… I would say that you could easily mix and match any of these three outfits with the three sneakers. Have some fun with this trend for sure!
Like these types of posts? Check out more of them here!
see you around...
Wednesday, May 7, 2014
12 spring/summer wardrobe essentials!
Style for spring and summer is so alluring to me because of it's simplicity. Really a few basics with a few key trendy pieces thrown in are all your closet needs for warmer temps. Here I pulled together what I know will be the building blocks of my spring & summer wardrobe (mostly variations of pieces I already own). These pieces mix and match easily, can be dressed up or down and are easy to wash and wear.
1. white jeans - White jeans go with everything and look super sharp.
2. striped tanks (or tees) - Stripes are where it's at for warmer temps, always.
3. lightweight summer scarf - This scarf is perfect for cool evenings/mornings, throw on with a tee and a denim jacket.
4. classic summer sunnies - A good pair of sunglasses will keep your eyes safe and stylish all season.
5. classic sneakers - You can dress up a fun pair of sneakers with a dress or simply wear them to death with shorts and tees.
6. simple skirt - A simple skirt can be worn for the inevitable summer events (think: showers, parties) or just casually worn over your swimsuit to the beach.
7. striped dress - My striped dress collection is growing - but only because I find they are continually a favorite of mine to wear all summer.
8. denim shorts - I just love a great pair of classic denim shorts. Again you can dress these up with nice sandals and a tank for a night out or just pair with sneakers for casual weekend wear.
9. graphic tees - Graphic tees are a fun and cheeky addition to any closet as the temperatures warm.
10. metallic sandals - These gorgeous metallic sandals show off your perfect tan and you can always use a new pair of sandals this time of year.
11. carry all tote - Have a tote at the ready to load up with books, snacks, mags and sunscreen and head to the pool, park or beach!
12. sun hat - I'm a sun hat addict. I can hardly sit at the pool or beach (or anywhere I am in intense sun) without some shade on my face - plus it's a total face saver!
Stay tuned tomorrow… I'm styling up those summer sneakers that we all love into some fun outfits!
see you around...
Monday, May 5, 2014
playing dress up: three ways to style Hunter boots!
Today I have another fun "playing dress up" post for you: it's three ways to style Hunter boots! This spring has been a super wet one - although look at the green grass we have to make up for it. I have been living in my Hunter boots lately with all the rain.
If it's raining you can throw your boots on with pretty much whatever you are wearing… but somedays when the clouds look ominous I like to think of fun outfits that go with these glossy boots. Here are three ideas of how to style your Hunter boots (or any rain boot you may own!).
outfit details
Hunter boots with leggings look:
leggings, J.Crew Pixie Pant (or less expensive ponte leggings)
t-shirt, J.Crew (similar or similar)
blazer, J.Crew Factory (similar or similar)
purse, Madewell (or less expensive similar)
necklace, Baublebar
Hunter boots with shorts look:
jacket, Forever 21 (similar)
sweater, Madewell
shorts, Gap
necklace, Dear Pru
Hunter boots with jeans look:
jeans, AG
top, Zara (similar)
scarf, H&M
purse, Madewell
More Hunter boots that I love: white! classic green! two tone!
If it's raining you can throw your boots on with pretty much whatever you are wearing… but somedays when the clouds look ominous I like to think of fun outfits that go with these glossy boots. Here are three ideas of how to style your Hunter boots (or any rain boot you may own!).
Hunter boots with leggings look:
leggings, J.Crew Pixie Pant (or less expensive ponte leggings)
t-shirt, J.Crew (similar or similar)
blazer, J.Crew Factory (similar or similar)
purse, Madewell (or less expensive similar)
necklace, Baublebar
Hunter boots with shorts look:
jacket, Forever 21 (similar)
sweater, Madewell
shorts, Gap
necklace, Dear Pru
Hunter boots with jeans look:
jeans, AG
top, Zara (similar)
scarf, H&M
purse, Madewell
More Hunter boots that I love: white! classic green! two tone!
see you around...
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