STYLE | normcore fashion?

{my perfect idea of normcore fashion- keeping it simple but flattering}

Unpretentious, average looking - the plain the better - pedestrian street crossings becomes the catwalk. Apparently. At least that's what Vogue told me about Normcore fashion. 

A trending term that landed on the scene this year but one I have been very confused about. How is this a "new" trend. Haven't I been sporting this, or all of us, should I say since circa 1984. At first I thought it was a ruse. A joke on tourists who roam the streets with oversized jeans, baggy sweaters, sneakers and fanny packs. Aren't these articles the staple of "Oh hey I'm just visiting and going to take a hundred pictures in the middle of the street even though you're trying to drive"? It's a little Zoolander isn't it? Or does it simply mean we've been ahead of the trend. When I say "we" I mean the States. This style has has been prevalent here for decades. Just live in San Francisco. This is the norm! (pun intended). 

I don't know. I just think with fashion it circles back over and over until we run out of ideas and now we're back to mom jeans and big sweaters. And I know this sounds cynical, but I'm all over it. In fact, I know a lot of people who would be bursting with joy if they found out they can freely stroll the streets in sweatpants and be deemed as 'fashion-forward'. Especially those who already do it! And I for one love dressing up, but I'm also just as happy to live in comfortable clothing. Though, maybe not sweatpants. 

SO! If someone is telling me to dress it down and not care about labels!? Hey, I'm in. I'm just stoked I'll be considered a "high-end pedestrian". 

How do you feel about Normcore fashion?

{keep the jewelry to a minimum - instead work with accents that pop on your lips and nails}

1. oversized sweater : topshop

2. high-top sneakers: vince

3. cross-body bag: rag & bone

4. jeans: joe's jeans 

5. nail polish: butter london

6. lips: mac 'we're back'

7. sunnies: nasty gal

Xo,

LIFESTYLE | travel

Crazy morning! I am thrilled to say I will be going to San Diego this weekend to celebrate my brother and sister's birthday this weekend. And of course as usual last minute. 

But traveling, no matter how short the flight, is always stressful. And if you're anything like me- I hate being the person that lugs around a big carry-on only to find out I can't even lift  it and end up standing in the aisle like a deer in headlights until someone offers their help. gasp...

SO! I always choose to travel light and the most successful way of doing this- is by creating a list. I note my essentials and pre-pick every outfit for each day I am away. A must-do! It's definitely a challenge committing to an outfit but avoids overpacking. 

Now if I can only learn to commit to an outfit at home versus the usual five wardrobe changes - I would be set....

{Very into crochet- beach ready perfect}

Xo,

STYLE | polka dots

Today's post is summer inspired. Suffice it to say polka dots are a timeless pattern and one of my favorites. I love its versatility hence why I mix and match this often. It's dressy when I pair it with black trousers or a black pencil skirt, but looks so chic even when I downplay it with jean shorts. 

I'm so all over chunky sandals right now which I think tied the whole look together. Add some chunky accessories, a bold lip and you're done! 

Thanks for reading...

XO,

STYLE | summer make-up

It is my humble opinion that unless you work at a cosmetic boutique, make-up should be applied sparingly during the day. The evening is another occassion. 

This simple look {which I love using during the summer} is achieved in 4 steps: 
For my eyes I use Indianwood by Mac. Underneath my eyebrows I use Benefit's soft highlighter - which helps to open up your eyes more. For my cheeks I use Amour by Nars and on my lips is Snob by Mac. I use no foundation or concealer for this look since I love giving my skin a break. Not to say I don't use it... but for days when I am not in meetings with clients and running simple errands I just don't do it. It keeps my skin healthy and makes up for days when I do apply heavily. 

Big tip: Always moisturize. 

I hate using cliché phrases such as 'less is more'.... but oftentimes it's true. 

XO,

STYLE | accoutrements

The best way to unwind after a long week of work? Going to the park. It's the easiest thing to accomplish with zero effort to get yourself dressed for it. All you need are your basics- a book, your ipod/music, sunblock and yourself. Of course a little white wine doesn't hurt, but a couple of hours of sunshine will guarantee to bring out your happy hormones. 

Nature is always the best remedy. What are your favorite 'take to the park' items?

XO,