Floral + Stripes

I normally shy away from shorts in the spring and summer because honestly I just don't like the way they look on me and I have a hard time finding ones that fit well (shout out to my pear-shaped gals).  If I had the choice, I'd pick a dress 9 times out of 10 because they're easier to just throw on and go, and way more comfortable.  But when I found these shorts at J Crew I decided to try them on and was pleasantly surprised to see that they fit!  The fact that waistband is elastic definitely didn't hurt and it's almost like getting the best of both worlds.  I went with this pretty floral pattern, but they had solids available as well.  Since it's still a bit chilly out, I paired them with a three-quarter length striped tee - I love floral and stripes together - and my orange espadrilles.  I can already tell that this look will be accompanying me to the beach in a couple weeks!

Shorts | J. Crew

Tee | Loft (similar)

Bag | Michael Kors

Espadrilles | Michael Kors

Photos by Chelcey Tate

xoxo,

Amanda

Gingham with a Pop

I'm usually drawn toward pastels in the spring, think Easter egg, but this combo of navy gingham and orange espadrilles has won my heart.  This top is light and breezy which is perfect with jeans now when it's still a bit cool, and it will work just as well with shorts or a skirt when it gets warmer.  Not to mention that button-downs in general now have a designated section in my closet.  I can't get enough of them.  Buy all the button-downs!  And in case you were wondering, I scored these shoes in the sale room yet again at Von Maur.  Like you even had to ask, am I right?  I was on the hunt for a cute pair of shoes for spring and summer that would be comfortable if I was doing a lot of walking, but not a sandal.  As soon as I laid eyes on these, I knew they were mine.  If you like the thrill of a sale find, be sure to read my tips for scoring the best deals over here! 

Top | J. Crew

Jeans | Loft

Espadrilles | Michael Kors

Handbag | Michael Kors

Photos by Chelcey Tate

xoxo,

Amanda

Casual Brunchin'

By now you know that brunch is pretty much my favorite meal.  But you know what isn't my favorite?  When the weather decides to randomly turn cold on me.  My solution for this problem is graphic sweatshirts.  With a couple pieces of dainty jewelry and sparkly shoes, it pulls the outfit together and makes it look like you spent a lot more time getting dressed than you actually did.  Don't worry, it'll be our little secret!  Last weekend when Chelcey and I went to brunch with some friends, it practically felt like winter outside.  Since I refuse to go back to that end of my closet, I grabbed this J Crew sweatshirt and Kate Spade Keds instead.  Given the way the weather works around here, I wouldn't be surprised if I'm reaching for this sweatshirt again before summer.

Sweatshirt || J Crew

Jeans || The Limited

Bag || Michael Kors

Shoes || Kate Spade x Keds

Necklace || Revelry Boutique

Photos by Chelcey Tate

xoxo,

Amanda