Suit Up + 20% off at Anthro!

I stumbled upon this tankini earlier this week, put it in my online shopping cart and then proceeded to have an internal debate about whether or not to go ahead and take the plunge. (Pun intended.) I love the peplum detail. It's cute, stylish and modest—a hard combo to come by in swimwear but perfect for me since I am not-so-comfortable rockin' a bikini at the moment. (While wedding planning helped me lose a few pounds, marriage has helped me added them all back!) I almost went for the white floral version, but the hubby liked the blue best and it's hard for me to resist bird-printed anything. (Can you see the little hummingbirds? There are fishes, too.)

My internal debate stemmed from the $122 price tag. I was hoping for a coupon code to magically come my way and make the decision of to-purchase-or-not-to-purchase easier and, as luck would have it, today I got my wish! In celebration of Mother's Day, Anthropologie is offering 20% off ALL merchandise (that's pretty unheard of except on Black Friday) with the code XOXO. The discount is only good through the weekend, online and in stores, so if you've been eyeing something like I was, get to shopping! And if you haven't picked up a gift for your mom or other mother figures in your life, Anthro has so many wonderful options to choose from, like this gorgeous candle or this one in her zodiac sign, a pretty pot to add to her garden, an ultra-fem fragrance, a special, whisper-soft robe that will remind her she's beautiful, and a wanderlust-y mug to hold her morning cup of coffee. Find more Mother's Day gift ideas at Anthro here.

I'm tempted to take that 20% off and go on a shopping spree! As my husband can attest, I can easily spend hours in an Anthropologie store, mostly on the home goods side. I want everything. But for now, I'm just hoping I won't hate the swimsuit the moment I put it on. Fingers crossed.

Happy shopping and happy weekend!

Wedding Wednesdays : My Bestie's Kate Spade-Inspired Bridal Shower {Sneak Peak!}

[ The bride and I, posing in front of the "selfie station." ]

This past Saturday was my best friend's bridal shower. After months of planning (see the invitations here!), it was both thrilling and nerve-wracking to see my Kate Spade-inspired vision come together. Things went off mostly without a hitch. We were a little slow to get going in the beginning, still putting out food when the clock struck 1 p.m., but fortunately party guests tend to trickle in a little late. Plus, it was such an intimate gathering, with just 16 gals, so there was really no pressure for perfection (even if I do put that upon myself!). Everyone was just mixing and mingling for a few minutes, taking advantage of the "selfie station" and the bar until I corralled the gang together to officially kick off the party. It was smooth sailing thereafter. Today I'm finishing up last-minute details for the bachelorette bash in San Diego, which we leave for tomorrow, so for now I thought I'd just share a few images from the shower. Many, many more to come!

[ The shower decorations included calligraphed signs, Scrabble tile messages and engagement photos. ]

[ Pop, fizz, clink! Mini champagne bottles bedecked with pink bow ties were the perfect party favors. ]

Butterflies

I am obsessed with this embroidered ASOS dress. Ever since I saw it online a couple weeks ago, I have kept the page open on my desktop, unwilling to close the window and dash my own dreams of ever wearing it. I simply do not have the money right now to claim this fabulous flirty frock for my already overstuffed closet, but oh how I wish it had been around last year when I was looking for white dresses to wear to all those bride-related events that a soon-to-be-hitched gal feels obligated to wear white to. I totally would have worn this to my wedding rehearsal, and happily worn it countless times since then. It just feels so fresh, so girly, and just plain fun. It also screams "hello, Spring!", which is my favorite season, and while it may still technically be winter, it doesn't feel like it here in Florida. Plus, I'm a California girl at heart, so I make my dresses work any time of the year. See how I'm trying to convince you (and myself) that I need this sweet little number in my life? Alas, I'll just leave it here for now. It's too pretty not to share.

Weekend Recap : Localtopia 2015

[ A great crowd came out for the second annual Localtopia. ]

On Saturday, G and I ventured to Williams Park in downtown St. Pete to celebrate all things local—to eat, drink, shop and listen to—at the 2nd annual Localtopia. It was a beautiful, 70-degree, blue sky day. The Florida sun was shining and the community was out en masse to support small, independent businesses and local makers of all kinds. The park was packed, and while at times it was a bit difficult to maneuver around all the attendees, plus their strollers and dogs, and the lines for the ATM and (massive!) draft beer truck rivaled Disneyland at times, it was wonderful to see hundreds of people come together under the banner of Keep Saint Petersburg Local. The festival showcased more than 100 vendors, many of which we were first introduced to at this Localicious event last October. After surviving the long lines to get cash, beer and food, the hubby and I had a fantastic time browsing the expansive marketplace—and we even picked up a few goodies along the way! 

Here's a few photos from our afternoon, if you'd like to see...

Fashion for Grammar Nerds

I'm not usually one to gravitate toward graphic, statement tees but this is the perfect shirt for grammar nerds like myself. (I especially love the slouchy raglan pullover style.) Talk about wearing your brain on your sleeve. Ba-dum-tsh. I'm so funny.

Love it, want it? Get it at Alphonnsine. There are a bunch of other cheeky shirts in the Etsy shop, too. 

P.S. While I am certainly a grammar nerd, I am not the grammar police (unless asked!). Case in point: I love my husband in spite of his terrible spelling and grammar skills, and never correct his misspelled texts. But, if Alphonnsine was to make a "ur, your, you're" shirt, I would be tempted to buy it for him. You're welcome!

Sparkle & Pop : Look-at-Me Party Pieces

Agean Sea Beaded Cluster Necklace // Chelsea Crew Lola Peep Toe Pumps // Elyza Lace Striped Dress

One of the perks of being a maid of honor and planning fabulous parties for your best friend/bride-to-be is the excuse to go shopping. Because clearly I need a new outfit for the bridal shower, the bachelorette, the rehearsal dinner... (I already know what I'm wearing to the wedding!) Of course my husband would take one look at my closet and completely disagree with that theory and he might have a point but this dress-aholic (yes, it is a mostly dress-specific problem I have) finds a way to ignore him.

So the other day, I took a break from my MOH planning duties to do a little online window shopping. At first I was on the hunt for a new black dress for the bachelorette, since the "theme" for our big night out on the town—drinks, dinner, dancing—is "bling it on." The bride's ladies will be wearing black dresses with sparkling accessories. But finding a LBD that excites me enough to open my wallet—me, the one who is drawn to COLOR! PRINTS! FLORALS! as well as boho styles that don't quite fit the gone-clubbing aesthetic—proved difficult.

But when I saw the chic, black-and-white striped number at Francesca's I knew it would be perfect for the bridal shower. Now, I'm still keeping the theme for the shower a secret (just in case the bride spies this post) but I'm sure many of you can put these party pieces together and figure it out. In addition to the glitzy, golden peep toe pumps and the bright blue, almost confetti-like statement necklace, I'm planning on adding a hot pink belt to the ensemble. Or, perhaps I'll just tie a raspberry-hued grosgrain ribbon around my waist. Effective and affordable. (My hubby would approve.)

Since I'm a coupon googling master, I was able to find a 20% off code and score the above outfit for less than $100. Nevertheless, I know I can't drop a C-note on a new outfit for every party, so (hubs, are you listening?) I've resigned myself to making a black dress I already have hanging in my closet work for the bachelorette. The frock has tiny gold stitching throughout so it would fit the bling theme perfectly. Plus, now I have a pair of gold heels for the occasion.

But, of course, I am feeling like I need a little more glitz and glamour. (My jewelry box is more about color than sparkle.) These beauties from Anthropologie would definitely fit the bill. A girl can dream, right?

Labradorite Shimmer Round Ring // Rio Jeweled Drops // Lacespark Bib Necklace

Christmas Wishes of a Creative, Girly, Boho Gal

Just in case you are still on the hunt for the perfect gift for the lady in your life (or, perhaps, yourself), I present my Christmas wish list. I'd be ecstatic to find any of these goodies under the tree, and I'm willing to bet other girly-girls with their heads in the clouds and a bit of a boho streak would be thrilled with Santa's picks, too.

The Photojojo Lens Set to upgrade her iPhone-photo-taking, Instagram-posting game, resulting in professional-quality images that make all that time she spends getting the perfect shot well worth the effort.

A book that feeds her jewelry addiction while also sparking her imagination and desire to create.

Small, lovely spiral-bound journals (left, right) filled with calligraphy-quality paper that promote doodling, daydreaming, list-making and goal-crushing.

Cozy, boho pullover sweaters (left, right) for when she wants to be comfy but still look stylish. 

A textured, jewel-toned frock that is a great base for fall layering, a romantic, crochet-edged faux wrap dress perfect for a winter date night but can also carry into spring, and bib necklaces (pink, black) that can be worn with both.

Chic, streamlined and versatile bags that look luxe (but are a steal) and go with everything in her wardrobe. Top: Convertible Vegan Crossbody in Midnight; Bottom: Slouchy Vegan Tote in Mulberry/Taupe.

Sexy, feminine high-end perfumes that she'll save for nights out with her man and other extra-special occasions. Tom Ford Velvet Orchid, an oriental floral that evokes a warm exotic garden, and Jo Malone Cologne Collection, a set of five most-loved fragrances that can be layered to create a signature scent.

Urban Decay's newest palette, Naked On the Run, since she owns Naked 1, 2 and 3 and, as a true make-up junkie, can't resist adding to her collection, no matter how full the bathroom drawers may be. Plus, this has almost everything she needs for a quick weekend getaway.

A trio of Grace Kreinbrink's peaceful abstract watercolors in shades of purple and pink (Falling Petals, Trickle and Wisteria) because they would be beautiful accent in her mostly-stark master bedroom, plus they perfectly complement her bedding.

A shimmering, foil-pressed print of the Golden State, to remind her of home. 

A lovely and inspiring mug to start her day right—with coffee and encouragement.

What's on your holiday wish list?

(Top image taken and edited by me)

An Evening at the Oxford Exchange

Last Thursday, the hubby and I journeyed to the Oxford Exchange in downtown Tampa for a book signing with stationer Anna Bond, the creative genius behind one of my favorite brands, Rifle Paper Co., and illustrator of the gorgeous Puffin in Bloom book collection. Unfortunately, when we arrived we learned that the signing had just been canceled due to a family emergency. I was disappointed of course, but totally understood—family always comes first.

But, since we had gotten all dressed up (I instructed the hubby to put on nice pants and a button-down shirt for the occasion) and made the drive across the bridge from St. Pete to Tampa, GT and I decided to make the most of it and poke around the shop, which is far more than just your average bookstore.

Housed within a white brick building on West Kennedy Boulevard, across from the University of Tampa, the Oxford Exchange truly is a thing of beauty. A modern market with an English sensibility. The shop is perfectly designed and decorated to mix old and new, the contemporary with the classic, in seamless fashion. Rich details let you know you’re somewhere special the moment you walk in the door. Italian white marble, reclaimed white oak, leather panels on the walls and ceilings, brass fittings… Even the bathroom is stunning. (I'm not kidding. Proof below.) If I could live there I would.

But OE is more than just its looks. The expertly-curated shop and bookstore are brimming with lovely treasures—some rare, some vintage—just waiting to be discovered, scooped up and given a good home. I could spend hours browsing through the coffee-table-worthy books, fine art prints, luxury home goods and décor, unique stationery pieces and delightful gifts that fill the space.

Fortunately, if all that browsing works up a hunger or thirst, there are plenty of options on site to quell that appetite. OE offers artisan coffees and hand-steeped teas at Buddy Brew Coffee and Tebella Tea Company. My vanilla latte was so pretty I didn’t want to drink it! But I did and it tasted as good as it looked. 

There is also the o.e. market with cold-pressed juices and tacos, but for those seeking more sustenance, Oxford Exchange boasts a gourmet, in-house restaurant, which is where the hubby and I ended our evening with a delicious dinner.

Created by Executive Chef Erin Guggino, the menu features fresh, seasonal dishes prepared with local and organic ingredients. I had the Macadamia Mahi Mahi with sautéed kale, coconut black sticky rice and citrus kaffir beurre meunière, and it was incredible. The macadamia nut-crusted fish transported me to Hawaii, and the rice had a chocolatey flavor that I couldn’t get enough of. I ate every bite. Likewise, GT thoroughly enjoyed his Spaghetti Squash tossed in a truffle kale pesto with shaved ricotta salata, parmesan, oil cured tomatoes and micro basil. Like our favorite pasta, but better.

We sipped (Bee's Knees gin cocktail and Trimbach Riesling) and dined under twinkling market lights in the seriously beautiful atrium, which has an airy, al fresco feels thanks to its glass ceiling. It was a romantic and, like the rest of OE, enchanting setting; no wonder it's a favorite private event venue in Tampa. (I mean, just look at this OE wedding. Breathtaking!)

Our server recommended coming back for breakfast—the OE restaurant was voted one of the top 100 places to brunch on Open Table—and I think we’ll follow his advice. In fact, I’m looking forward to several return visits to the Oxford Exchange, whether the book signing gets rescheduled or not. With a calendar full of events and a shop stocked with interesting curios, there’s always something new to discover.

To be honest, I’m jealous of those UT college kids. If I were them, I’d be studying (or, not studying) each and every day at Oxford Exchange.

Dark Blooms : Fall-Worthy Frocks

If you know me, you know I'm a dress gal. I love a good frock. I especially love a good flirty, floral frock. I have too many to count and yet I'm always craving more. I justify my addiction by wearing a dress any chance I get. Even if the weather is cold and gloomy, as long as my legs are shaved, I'm throwing on a dress. (Tights are a lifesaver even when that caveat isn't accomplished.) It's just so easy to slip on—one and done, and out the door.

Now that it's officially fall, I thought I'd round up a few autumn-appropriate floral dresses from my favorite boutiques. Darker colors, longer hemlines and sleeves make even a full-on flowery dress a not-out-of-place choice in the cooler months. Boots and a chunky sweater seal the deal. Heck, I'll probably sneak a few of my bright and breezy summer sundresses into my winter wardrobe with just the addition of those key accessories. I am and always will be a California girl at heart, and we don't pay much mind to the changing of the seasons. (Seasons? What seasons?) It just takes a few swaps and new details to make a seamless transition into a new time of year. But hey, any excuse to go shopping, right? That's what "changing of the seasons" means to me.

Check out my top picks on my clotheshorse wish list...

LuLu's:  1 // 2 // 3

Ruche: 1 // 2 // 3 

ThreadSence: 1 // 2 // 3

Free People: 1 // 2

Are you as excited for fall fashion as I am? I can't wait for this Florida weather to cool down so I can layer up. But until then, I'll keep rocking my floral frocks—barelegged, eager for tights season.

(Top image of adorable fall style via The Moptop)