Hats off to Summer!

On the day of the Kentucky Derby, I always covet the AMAZING hats women wear.  The elaborate design, the colors, the accessories, and the simple elegance of wearing a hat feels so glamorous.  Now that the summer is coming, I am gathering my summer gear- swimsuits, cover-ups, flip flops, and of course, the best floppy summer hat.  (did I forget the sunscreen? Redheads just are cursed by the sun.  Hence why I live where it's still 50 degrees in May.)

In any case, there are SO many fun options out there- and I think I'll have to break down and find a great one for my summer off!  If it helps, wearing a hat also protects that delicate facial skin- and I am starting to notice fine lines.  It's time to get a handle on this aging nonsense :)

Nautical navy perfection. 

Merona for Target $13.50

Classic natural works for everyone.

Joe Fresh for JCP $14.00

White makes me think "summer in the Hamptons"

Merona for Target $13.50

 Blending my recent post on ombre! It comes in navy and yellow, too!

Gap $29.95

Happy Chic

I'm all for modern design, especially in geometric prints.  When I heard that JC Penney was partnering with Jonathan Adler (modern chic design potter extraordinaire), I just knew I had to have a piece from his collection to spruce up my house!  He calls the line "Happy Chic" which is enough reason for me to love it all.  And the prices are a smidge more reasonable.

Normally, Adler's pieces run $$ for ceramic pieces or even just gift items, but let's be honest- his work is fresh and feel good.  I've always loved the nesting trays- which are perfect for all kinds of uses...on your dresser for perfume bottles, bracelets, jewelry...on your coffee table for remote controls, candles, or coasters.  Whatever your passion, they are such a fun gift.

The real deal

Carnaby Square Nesting Trays $148

JCP/ Adler

Happy Chic Nesting Trays $95

Love the oven mitt!

Happy Chic $14

The corresponding pot holder

Happy Chic $10

Huge fan of the Lola pattern.  It just oozes happiness. 

Kitchen Towel 3 pack $20

So if you're looking to add a little (or a lot) of pattern to your home, this line doesn't fall short.  I've already loved having a a fresh piece in my home (I snagged the Lola floral pattern in an acrylic tray for my coffee table, but seems to be sold out now!). Enjoy a little happy chic in your life!

Ooo La La Ombre

It's been a crazy few weeks in Boston.  Marathon, bombings, "stay in place" orders, manhunts.  It's been heavy and hard for many of us, and I want to take just one moment to acknowledge something bigger and deeper than my blog post on shopping. 

But we Bostonians carry on, and my shopping kicked into gear when I was stressed and anxious!
So, I may be late to the game on this one too, but I really do like the look of ombre. It's showing up (intentionally this time) in hair color, clothing and accessories with a fresh from the design studio feel.  Some people call it "dip dyed"- but that gives me flashbacks to the 80s when my friends and I would tie-dye our t-shirts to look ultra cool.  But ombre sounds chic, elegant and playful!  I am loving the trend in clothes and accessories.  Here's a few of my new recent favs:

I can't get enough of this canvas tote.

JCP steals the show for $20!

Red Envelope wanted to get in the game too.

Dip Dye Canvas tote $80

Michael Stars rocks this sweater.

Pine Straw in Wellesley sells the blue one! $138

I am not a huge J.Jill fan, but this is cute.

Dip Dyed Kimono Sweater $80

The fresh feel of ombre makes me want to load up my car, roll down the windows, and sing "free fallin" (Jerry Maguire anyone?)- it's clearly springtime finally here in Boston.  I hope ombre sticks around long enough for me to soak up all the fun!

Orla Kiely + Target

I was changing over my handbags recently (yes, I have enough that I use them seasonally), and one of my favorites was rediscovered by Orla Kiely.  I love her playful designs and patters that just scream spring and fun!

I've had this for years and still LOVE it!

I kind of covet this one, but I digress....

Jeanie Bag in Square Flower Print $177.00

You can imagine my delight as I was making my weekly Sunday am Target run and I saw that they partnered up with Orla to make their trademark Method soaps!  (I am behind the 8 ball on this one- apparently, this partnership made its debut in the Fall 2012...oops)  I happened upon them (on sale this week even) and I scored the white nectarine scent, which displayed a great orange-red pattern.  I may just reuse the bottle b/c it's so cute.  See if your local Target has any left for you to enjoy!

Pear Ginger $2.99

Vanilla Chai $2.99

And while I can, I will enjoy my Orla Kiely and hope Target will bring her back for more!

Stately Pride

I was walking through Nordstrom a couple weeks ago waiting on my yummy sandwich to be made from the Bistro (only so I could have their fries and that kalamata olive dip, let's be honest) and made my way over to the accessories department.  Wanted to check out some trends, but also just see what was showing for spring.

It's no secret that I have great pride in my birthplace (Texas!) so when I see items that creatively allow me to do that- I am totally on board. Check out this adorable beauty!  Naturally, I am drawn to the Lone Star State...

I enjoy how the state is spelled out inside the shape.

 (I must say Rhode Island is fun).  

Rhode Island Silver $42

And while I can give a shout out to the Bay State, I will...

Massachusetts Silver $42

So while I didn't buy myself one, I did think it would make a great gift for the high school or college senior graduating...or maybe to that friend who is relocating...or maybe just for someone who loves her state as much as I do!