Away We Go

One of the things that us Californians sometime take for granted is how close we are to the coast. I will openly admit that I don't visit the beach as often as I should. But on this day - I did. It's amazing to think that just a 20 minute drive from my apartment is this - a blue sky, crashing blue waves, and a calming sound that helps you forget about the hustle and bustle of the city. On days like this I am reminded that it's okay to get away and just be.

Brick City

I've been living (livinggg) in these loafers since I got them. At first, I wasn't sure if I could do them justice, but as soon as I took them out of the box and put them on my feet I started putting together outfits I had never considered before. They're the perfect pair for just about anything - harem pants (such as the ones I'm wearing above), a pair of jeans, or some cutoffs. Needless to say, you'll be seeing a lot of these babies in posts to come. Don't say I didn't warn ya!

Purple Yellow Red and Blue

Do you guys listen to Portugal. The Man? If not, do. it. now. Stumbled upon this wall in the city and knew it was the perfect backdrop. In fact, don't be surprised if you see it again. I've been exploring more areas and have been so fascinated with so many of the little pockets I haven't seen before.

Black

It's no secret that I'm really into maxis - like now and forever. I found this one from Forever 21 for a steal at $15. I love the double slits and the print - I mean how cute are the little elephants? On a breezy day, I wear it with tights and booties. These silver cap-toes are from Restricted Shoes and let me tell you they fit like a dream. Super comfortable, durable, and fabulously fashionable, if I do say so myself. Guess I was feeling in  a bit of a grungier mood because everything I reached for was all black. Received this cute silver studded Steve Madden cross body from Accessories Council's February picks. I love it because it's a tiny little thing with character and spunk. Perfect to hold just what I need - phone, keys, wallet and some lip gloss!

Hair How To's with Mark Hill Hair

Most of you know my hair to be straight (as I rarely let me curly q's rein free). But as of late, I've been trying to challenge myself to put away the hair straightener and give my natural curls some TLC. I have to preface this post by saying I try / use A LOT of different products. I love trying new things, because, well, how else can you figure out what you like/don't like or what works?

I'll be sharing a series of beauty-inspired posts sporadically on the blog. Everything from my must, must have killer curly-hair cocktail of products, to what I've tried and liked (or even disliked). Today, I'll be chatting about Mark Hill's new hair care line - especially made to protect hair from heat styling tools. So, let's count this one as my first official hair post, shall we? Here we go!

Simple and Easy

Simple attire is my favorite. A white tee, some distressed denim, a pair of comfy sandals, pulled together with the best subtle, but standout jacket? I'm sold. Wore this out to a lunch one beautiful day in the city. It was my first time officially meeting photog, Jenny - we chatted ideas, got to know one another and then stepped outside to snap a couple photos. I love the lighting and the simplicity of the photos, don't you? The best part is that we had to have snapped these in 15 minutes or less. I got together with Jenny again this past weekend to shoot more looks and I am just too excited to share them all. Happy (sorta) Monday, y'all! Hope you enjoy the short work week!

All The Leaves Are Brown

I knew winter was bound to find its way to California. The last couple of days have been filled with gusty winds and nonstop showers. Not bad considering we desperately needed some rain, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss the sun. Rain is also a big no-no for shoots outside, but luckily for me, I got some snaps before the wet weather rolled on in.

Seeing Spots

My favorite combination as of late? Distressed boyfriend jeans, an oversized knit sweater, and comfy flats. You've seen these jeans a lot, and you'll continue to see even more of 'em. I haven't found a pair of distressed jeans I love as much as these loose-fitting lovelies. The best part is I found them somewhere I wouldn't have thought to look - Macy's M Style Lab. Only goes to show that you find the best things, in overlooked places!

LookMazing's Who Wore It Best Style Challenge!

In San Francisco, a scarf is one of the many accessories you will grow to love. In fact, scarves are starting to rival my collection of beanies for a coveted spot in my closet. Truth be told, there's no way I could choose between the two because I. need. them. both. 

theBalm SF Party

Last week, I attended theBalm's new San Francisco flagship store opening with my gal pals / lovely coworkers, Alyson, Mira & Jackie. Conveniently located on Valencia Street in the Mission, the new shop is right in the heart of one of the city's most cool and creative neighborhoods. In need of a touch up before popping over to one of the Mission's trendy restaurants? Well, now you're in luck!

Green Machine

A few solo shots of me from my LuLu*s collab from last week! Wanted to talk to you guys more about my outfit, so had to share another post!

Lady in Red

I've always found red to be one of those colors that can set a girl apart. Whether it's the pop of a red pout or a radiantly red dress, there's something about the color that makes the woman wearing seem that much more confident. Granted, the red in these photos comes from the wall behind me, I still feel like it does the trick, right?

LuLu*s The Great Galentine's Giveaway: Win Free Dresses for a Year!!

Alright, y'all - get ready for a photo overhaul. I recently had the pleasure of working again with one of my favorite places to shop, LuLus.com on a super fun collaboration for Valentine's Day. I know, I know - is it already time to think about that? Well, luckily for you, whether you're a Single Sally or Committed Cathy, LuLu*s wants to help you celebrate YOU and the gal pal in your life!

Shred Into The Light

This weekend was full of some nice highs (hello, summer weather!) and some low, lows (Niners lose to the 'hawks, booooo). Luckily, these photos were snapped when the weather was amazing (seriously - I was sweating in January), and I was still feeling happy and hopeful (about my team!). Perfect outfit for a sunny day in San Francisco? A breezy skirt, chunky wedges, and a shredded tee. Definitely hoping for more sunny days ahead.

I'm Back

You know it. I know it. Let's get it all out there - it's been a while since my last post (this I know all too well). Hear me out, if you will - it hasn't been for lack of want, nor apathy of any sort (quite the opposite, actually). If we're being honest here (and we're always honest here), my blog is in the process of getting made over (you heard it here first!), and in the process, I've had a harder time as of late scheduling time with friends and photogs to help me shoot my looks (let's not go back to those dark tripod days, y'all). So, while I've wanted nothing more than to shoot and to get up posts for you all (at the very least, so you know I'm still doing this thang), I've had to put it on hold until I could make things happen. But now they're happening. Hip things happening here. Do you forgive me? I hope so. Are you all still there? I hope so. Are really awesome things coming? I know so. With that, I hope you will all welcome me back with open arms and enjoy all of the things I have planned. So here we go, guys. Get ready.

Lucky Magazine x Seventh Generation x #AllNaturalStyleSecrets Challenge

Lucky Magazine in conjunction with Seventh Generation asked me to share my #AllNaturalStyleSecrets with you - so this post is dedicated to spilling the beans! When it comes to beauty and fashion, my motto has always been wear what makes you feel good. It doesn't matter if that means wearing a dress and heels, jeans and sneaks, lipstick and lashes or even just plain ole chap stick. The best outfits are always the ones you feel most comfortable in. And as far as beauty is concerned, I've always opted to keep it as au naturale as possible. Now, don't get me wrong, I also love to get dolled up from time to time, but on the day to day, you can typically catch me in my lip gloss, eye liner, and mascara. One thing I do swear by when it comes to beauty is taking care of my skin. I've been blessed with good skin (thank you, genetics), but that doesn't mean I can just let it all go and let the universe do its thing. As best I can, I like to use natural, organic products to make sure I've giving my skin the TLC it deserves.