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#springfashion

Spring Colors, White Jeans, and Skin Cleansers

January 28, 2023 By kimwheeler 45 Comments

On this post..spring colors that are trending in home and fashion, white jeans to add a lift to your winter staples, skin cleansers you might need and more..

Well this has been a sad in California with two terrible shootings. So many innocent people living their lives, dancing with their friends, celebrating, and others just trying to make ends meet. All were at the mercy of unhappy or unstable people with access to guns.

The need for the assault weapon ban is urgent. When we let the assault weapon ban expire, mass shooting rose 245% in America. I don’t give up hope we can do this and it’s going to take reeducating our nation and pointing out that the majority of countries in this world, live with sane gun regulations and have gun deaths in the single digits each year. We need to prioritize human lives over guns. It’s that simple.

Gabrielle Blair, has written some common sense posts it, and I recommend her thoughts. We must imagine and do the hard work to create a life in America with less guns because if we keep going as we are, we are doomed.

White jeans to give your winter wardrobe a boost

I found my basket of white jeans on the closet floor this week and thought I’d start wearing them with chunky sweaters and jackets. Just about now, white jeans are a mood lifter and just what we need to give the warm winter staples a punch. You’ll find adding a white jean to your black sweaters super chic and neutrals like greys, camels, and beiges looks very luxe and transitional for the seasons.

white jeans and shacket in winter
white jeans and black sweater

Get your white denim out and try mixing it up. I’ve seen very cute looks with white jeans, winter boots and puffer jackets too..

When I shared the photo on Instagram, a few people wanted suggestions for good white jeans. I suggest a thicker cotton and straight leg, not a skinny. Mine are these (very few left), but another option with zip fly are these from J.Crew . Other options are these from Paige, these from Mother always rated highly, and these from AGOLDE, and these in off-white, and these Gap jeans are a great price.

2023 Spring Color Story

This week on our Instagram LIVE with Juliet, we discussed the 2023 color trends, and for spring the colors are most definitely skewing towards pastels, think Easter colors, with a twist. Pinks have a purply or magenta hue, there is a lot of lavender, soft pistachio greens ( you could call it celery if you prefer) and baby duck yellows. This seems to be the case with interiors as well as clothes. You will see these tones in home decor, usually as a punctuating factor in a neutral rooms and with bits of dark blues, Kelly greens, and magenta thrown in there.

This is just a sampling of the this trend in my mail this week..

2023 color story
By the way, I loved the Mothers & Sons article and photos in Town & Country and Viola Davis’s home AD is beautiful..as is she. Love the yellow on her! Yes I still subscribe to a few magazines!

I am noticing a lot of yellow+magneta ( kind of fresh), baby blue+mauve ( the 80’s forever ), and the celery thrown in with all these tones..(Max once dubbed this color ‘Shamrock Shake’ which forever wrecked the way I felt about a Sage wall, but I digress.)

I have added a few pieces in pastel to my neutral coffee table with a book, a box for my remotes, and a pretty candle..

coffee table styling with Serena & Lily tray and grasscloth box
The tray from Serena & Lily on sale now. Box and pot found recently at Homegoods. Book is Vibrant interiors

Spring Color Trends in Fashion..

This color story continues with retailers. J. Crew got on this trend tout sweet and has many pretty options and even t-shirts, should you only wish to dip your toe in this pastel kaliedescope. Did you know the term, ‘tout sweet’ evolved from American soldiers mangling the French ‘tout de suite’, which means immediately, during WWI? Sort of interesting! …AND back to the subject.

I made a collage of these trending tones and the point isn’t to wear them all together, well you could, but more to inspire you to add a piece in these shades to your spring look..It just takes a new shoe, a top or a bag to mix with what you already own..and if you own any of these colors, get them back out!

Spring color story fashion 2023

I love the Lady jacket in denim, Nicole Wittenberg Sweet William T-shirt, and this stripe shirt is giving me vintage Esprit vibes, pink loafers, pink cashmere sweater (wonderful to wear as a scarf too), Tevas in sherbert tones, jeans from J. Crew, Gucci Violet Sunglasses, and the prettiest spring green crossbody bucket from Tory Burch.

Skincare Part II – Cleansers

Last week I shares my skincare faves and neglected to share my cleansing routine, which is really the most important thing and can improve your skin perhaps more than any cream. I have to be honest, I get lazy during the cold months and sometimes don’t wash efficiently at night. After the holidays I stepped up my cleansing by adding this organic Klorane micellular cleanser which removes all my makeup easily before my regular cleanser. It also helps my cleanser be more effective.

Klorane Micellaire Cleanser
Shiseido WASO gel to oil cleanser
Indie Lee toner with hyaluronic acid

I clean with this gel to oil cleanser which I love for these drier months, from Shiseido’s Clean and natural Waso line. I also added a toner. I’ve been sans toner for a long time, but I kept reading how important this step is to remove the residue and set the skin up for your night routine. I choose this Indie Lee Toner with Co-q10 and hyaluronic acid, which is also clean with no toxic ingredients.. Just the addition of these two steps improved my skin visibly in less than a week! My skin looks clearer and much brighter. Step up your cleansing and you will see changes. A good habit to begin in the new year.

The Sea Glass House

I will be bringing back my house of the week soon, but real estate listings have been lean. I did notice one of my favorite houses on the scenic drive around Carmel Beach is up for sale. You can see all the details on Sea Glass here. Who wouldn’t mind living in this glass house?

Carmel Sea Glass House
Kitchen in Carmel California beach house
Glass House in Carmel, Ca.

Other things..

First Lady Jill Biden’s beautiful inaugural ensembles were added to the Smithsonian’s First Ladies exhibit this week. I loved her dresses, especially the white by Gabriel Hurst. Included were all had custom masks, as it took place in the middle of the pandemic. She is the only First Lady to ever have those. I wonder what we will think when we look back one day…and what we lived through and are still emerging from..Read more about Dr Biden’s dresses and the ceremony here.

Without wading too much into the Prince Harry debate, as I know it’s quite charged, I listened to his memoir, and there are a million articles and opinion pieces on it all, but I felt this piece in NYTimes really said something none of the others did and I quite liked it.

Cindy had a very stylish California girl on her Ageless style this week. Wren is a friend I have made through Instagram, and a very sweet person who lives in SLO ( San Louis Obispo), and has fantastic casual chic. I think you’ll love this post on her!

white and cream ensemble on Californian women, Wren.

Next week I’ll be joining a few others on Thursday with fun Valentine’s Day ideas.. so if you aren’t subscribed, you can below!

If you missed last week’s post – I shared ideas for a dining room refresh, San Francisco houses, skincare I am loving, and more..

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Kim

Please visit my pals Elizabeth and Juliet’s lovely blogs..

MAKE MINE A SPRITZER

PINECONES AND ACORNS

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Filed Under: Featured, Spring and Summer Fashion Tagged With: #californiahomestyle, #spring 2023color, #springfashion

Easy Chic for Spring/Summer with White Shirts

April 21, 2022 By kimwheeler 34 Comments

Hello, I’m on my fourth day of Covid as I write this and though I could be resting, I’m feeling grateful today for sunshine and getting better and I wanted to share something I am passionate about- white shirts!

Today I am joining a stylish group to talk spring and summer fashion and at the end you can hop over and visit their blogs and see their thoughts too.

White shirts were top of my mind when I think of lighter dressing. I love a white shirt and now that warmer days are on the way, I’ve pulled out all my white blouses, laundered them, and have them front and center in my wardrobe.

Why are white shirts so chic?

They are universally flattering. It’s like one of those photography umbrellas held up to the face, but by your shirt!

They go with everything.

Layers! Need I say more?

They flatter much more than a t-shirt as they skim the body!

Classic style.. Katherine Hepburn, Diane Keaton, Lauren Hutton, Sharon Stone..the list goes on. ( I almost forgot Carolina Herrera!! She is the white shirt queen.)

I love seeing all my white shirts together..

Nothing beats a closet clean-out. DO this before you shop. Try on every piece too. I love collecting pretty pieces..Some I have had for a long time..

I personally love to wear my eyelet and lacy blouses with something tougher like distressed jeans or a leather or camo pants..

Some of the newer shorter and fuller shapes can be fun too.. Less tucking, and they look good with high waisted pants and skirts. If the sleeves are too big, just roll them up. Details like the poet’s sleeve and wider cut shirts can give you an updated look while still being a classic piece..

My most favorite white shirt currently is this which has poet’s sleeves. It’s a newer look with jeans and a sweater over the shoulders for cooler days. It can also work as above (tied with a knot), with a skirt and slides for spring/ summer. They no longer sell this shirt at Banana, but a nearly identical one is here at Anthro, my Seychelles Slides here, and the skirt I’ve had for a while. (This pink look was going to be my Easter outfit before I got sick… I’ll trot it out again.)

Some street inspo

Let’s see some inspiration and ideas for styling your white shirt.

All these images and more on my Pinterest Board, White Shirt Style.

A few I like below…

I chose a few classic and also some newer styles and shapes. You need classic, modern, and feminine white shirts to round out the closet. If you’re in the market, these are a few good ones..

Everlane Boxy Oxford
Alex Mill Ruffle Poplin
White Company Eyelet Blouse
J.Crew Cotton Popover
J.Crew Smocked Top
Aqua Lace Tassel Top
Aqua Statement Blouse
Banana Republic Ramie Shirt
Banana Republic Sleeveless Shirt
BR Linen Stripe Shirt (also in white)
Tuckernuck Oversized Oxford
Anthro Ruffled Blouse

The other button-ups I really like are from Grayson. I have their Hero shirt in tissue cotton, but it comes in many different white fabrics here. I love their fit and quality.

A reader reminded me also of AYR, a wonderful California brand that has the Deep End Cotton Oxford, below, that has a brilliant design for a half-tuck, or not. I am ordering this! I also LOVE their denim which you choose your rise, length etc. I recently bought The Pop jeans.

I hope you are rethinking about how to style your white shirts. Look for inspiration and play around and don’t be afraid to raid the guy’s closet for an oversized look… Most importantly, clean out for spring, purge what no longer works and see what good pieces will update everything and last! Think less things and better and shop consignment and vintage. Some of the best pieces are like new and beautiful additions to a unique look and wardrobe!

By the way, I’m doing okay after three hard days of Covid. I’m thankful I was boosted and vaxxed. I can’t imagine this without it. I haven’t been sick in years and I’m grateful to be nearly normal on the fourth day…My husband most likely brought it back with him on a recent trip out of state. Take care everyone!

Thanks for being here.. Please visit these style bloggers who are also doing Spring/Summer fashion today and I know will have some fun things for you..

CLASSIC CASUAL HOME
CINDY HATTERSLEY DESIGN 
MOST LOVELY THINGS
AGE OF GRACE
SARAH LONDON STYLE
SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY 

Have a great rest of the week and see you Saturday for my ‘Weekend Meanderings’ post.

Kim

If you’d like to get an email when I post, please subscribe to the blog here for a post in your inbox a few times a month! Thank you so much, as Bloglovin seems to have stopped working and I no longer post as much on Facebook and plan to do less there.

Some links will generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog!

Filed Under: Spring and Summer Fashion Tagged With: #spring/summerfashion, #spring/summerfashion2022, #springfashion, #springstyle

Spring Dresses

April 20, 2021 By kimwheeler 20 Comments

A bit of news for those of you who have liked fashion posts… I will be joining Cindy Hattersley and Sarah London on their monthly fashion collaboration. Those ladies have so much style so I hope I can be a valued contributor to their wonderful series!

Today the theme is spring dresses and as there are more possibilities for leaving our homes this spring, dresses suddenly hold more excitement than last year. This year we might be seen a bit more and just the few times I’ve been out the last week or so, people absolutely seem to be stepping up their style game. I for one, am enjoying seeing people who aren’t in their sweats and comfort clothes!

So, in the name of research here, I did some surveying and tried on spring dresses from an array of retailers. As I have stated in previous posts, I am trying to purchase less and shop thoughtfully. What I do buy I want to LOVE, I mean really love. I also want it to be quality. I’d rather have one nice dress that I can wear over and over than 4 cheaply made dresses. That said there is a place in the warm weather wardrobe for a few light dresses that can be housedress/coverup/ market run frocks for those dog days of summer. My go-to for that last year was the light sundress with pockets dresses from Target. They still have a version. and Anthro has almost the exact copy I bought last year, below (more colors too), a bit nicer quality and fit. Most everyone looks great in this and it’s light and versatile..

Spring dresses need to be light and comfortable ! That should, be a given, but doing my investigations, one of the biggest issues is so many dresses are constructed of heavy stiff fabric with overdone layers. It was sad because many cute dresses just felt oppressive on, something we all want to avoid on warm days. Given I’m 55, this hot thing takes on new significance. I know others can relate..

So here’s what I think we can all use and maybe you can use this as a guide shopping:

-Something of quality to wear daytime everywhere, is versatile, can be casual or dressed up.

-Something floral and pretty, a skirt would be versatile.

-Something for dinners out and social gatherings (when they happen.)

-Something for a special dinner or a holiday trip.

Of course those dresses can overlap and do duty in the other categories too. With three or so quality dresses, you can sail through spring and summer with just a few changes of sandals and pretty accessories. Shop well, buy less, and remember better things will give you a lot of pleasure to wear. Once you decide to choose higher quality, you realize you need less, as slipping on that perfect frock makes everything else seem not as necessary. It’s kind of the same when you splurge and get a nice bag. You don’t need a lot of the others and it simplifies life.

You can run out the door feeling polished.. Have fun with the add-ons. The goal is to have all the things in your closet be items you have a crush on. Nothing sub-par should be in there. Make that your goal- a pretty capsule wardrobe for spring and warmer days. Get rid of the extra bulk in your closet gathering dust. Let it go to another home to be loved and have only what you are crazy about.

Dress 1- A nice quality T-Shirt Dress. This is the Tory Burch’s Basket-Weave Dress. I love this as it is comfortable and cute fabric. It’s a bit upscale for a t-shirt dress and I like that. You can wear it everyday, or out for a dinner date. It’s also a nice vacation dress as it doesn’t wrinkle. I bought this on one of her sales and I deliberated about a more fancy dress, but made made myself buy something I’d get a more wear from and this dress will be worn a zillion times this spring and summer, it’s so easy, so pennies per wear.

Dress 2- This dress is called the Daily Practice Dress by Anthropologie and it is a well made dress for casual and could be dressy too. It’s a very comfy and super breathable stretchy cotton that feels great to wear. It could double as a cute cover-up and comes in more colors, some pretty prints as well. It does have a lower open back, but with a black bra, it wasn’t really noticeable. (My tag sticking out you can see, but you get the idea.) Everything in Anthropologie’s new Daily Practice Line is made for the California casual lifestyle and I want all the pieces! They fit the easy life we all have now, but with dresses and feminine top, etc.

Dress 3- An Satiny Embroidered Dress. This is the Viveka Dress from Anthropologie. It’s a dressier look, but still light made of cotton with a layer on the skirt. I like the embroidery and I love a white dress summer dress. This is a creamy white and it’s comfortable too. This would be a vacation dinner dress, for special gatherings and date nights go to – nice to have in the closet. Flattering, not too short or too tight.

Dress 4- An easy little black dress. This Ramy Brook Jo Dress is light and the way they are constructed they are very flattering. These dresses have a casual California vibe to them also. This Jo dress is on sale at the Rack now and I haven’t seen this version before with the gathered adjustable 3/4 sleeve. This dress feels so soft on and I will wear it any chance I can. It’s also light enough a slim black pant or leggings could be worn with it for a chic daytime look- maybe trip to the art museum or a day in the city? They have some other colors and versions on sale at the Rack here. I’m tempted to grab another with those sale prices.

-5- In the floral group, because it is spring and we all need a little flower, I love a skirt that be worn in so many ways. This Free People skirt fit the bill for me as it was nicely made, super comfy with an elastic waist and pockets- and I was crazy about the print. I am wearing a XS here as they are roomy. I paired mine with one of these new Daily Practice T-shirts from Anthro and a sweater over the shoulders for cooler mornings and nights. ( By the way the sweater over the shoulder look is back and so practical.) I also loved the new Daily Practice Boy Meets Girl T, and the Richie V-Neck T.

My Perry Bombe Cross-body here is my favorite small bag- so light, holds a lot, with two separate zip compartments and is still a best seller at Tory Burch. I’ve had mine a few years now and it still looks great. It’s the right length and adjustable. Cute new versions in canvas and woven and the taupe is lovely.

I also have several versions of the Miller Tory Burch sandal on in these photos. I can highly recommend the newest their Cloud version with super comfy soles! I have the light blue. Love them! All of my sandals from her I am still wearing many years on!

I hope you enjoyed this spring dress chat! Please pop over to Cindy’s blog, Cindy Hattersley Design and Sarah’s Sarah London Style to see what they are sharing for spring dresses. I can’t wait to see what they have for us with dresses today!

Kim

Some links may generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog!

Filed Under: Spring dresses, Uncategorized Tagged With: #anthropologie, #freepeople, #ramybrook, #springdresses2021, #springfashion, #springstyle, #springwardrobe, #toryburch

Spring Style Inspiration

April 1, 2021 By kimwheeler 40 Comments

Today I’m so excited to join six other lovely ladies to share some fashion ideas to help you get a jump-start on your spring style. Each person did a spring style subject of their own choosing. I can’t wait to pop over and see what each one has in store for us!

Recently I’ve cleared out the closet and even sadly dusted some of my clothes. I’m sure most people can relate given the past year. I do think it’s been a lesson on just how many clothes we all own and what we now feel we can live without and also what we truly want to wear. When organizing and cleaning your closet, look at what you DO love! Make a list of things that you wear repeatedly, always love and that flatter you. Choose accordingly when you shop. I noticed I am always drawn to things like printed pants, but rarely wear them and the same with busy tops.

This process has made me see the things I really wear again and again, over the years are mainly classics of some variation or other. In spring that means good white jeans, pretty blouses, comfortable dresses, a lightweight jacket and flat sandals for me.

Maybe instead of buying a whole lot of new, buy less and pick better basics! Some things everyone can use this season:

-Some good white jeans (like discussed in this post)

-A new pair of blue jeans in an updated shape

-A well made sandal that will upgrade everything

-A nice quality white blouse

– A couple inexpensive dresses ( maybe a long and a short)

-A tote or cross-body in a lightweight fabric or straw.

With that list in mind, I added a few things to my closet this spring – An eyelet blouse a beautifully made classic from J.Crew. It comes with a light shell liner with snaps to attach it. ( It’s on sale now with an extra 50% too, a great deal for this regularly $110 blouse.) The different styles of eyelet on this give it a fun element, but eyelet will always be a spring and summer classic. (For those who asked I bought a size 6, which feels just right with some room for a bit of stretch for my size 5’4- 130ish for some indication of how the numbered sizes run. )

I wore it with my white jeans and black accessories for a transitional spring look. My J. Crew white vintage straight leg jeans are still looking great after buying these last summer.

I also added these new wide leg cropped jeans from Banana Republic. I wear my jeans a ton and I like this thicker no stretch pair that will give a updated look to all I already own like this denim shirt. These are also on sale now and come in petite, which we right for 5’4 me, – also in regular and tall.

I also added this sweet blouse from World Market. They have some pretty tops and coverups!

Once again I couldn’t resist the stripes and love the ruffles and embroidery. They have quite a few cute ones.

In the ‘buy better’ category I bought these Tory Burch Cloud sandals I had my eye on for sometime. They have the support of a Birkenstock type shoe and I love the blue denim color. They also come in white, tan, a pretty yellow and black. Every Tory Burch item I have ever bought I still own and that says a lot. I love the quality of her things. We could all use more of those kind of items in our closets.

My cross-body is honestly almost 10 years old or so – also Tory, and the closest they have now is this cutie in brown and black. I love the tassel and size for your phone and sunglasses.

In lightweight tote category, I spotted this striped cutie when buying the jeans. I don’t have a fabric tote and as I always love stripes, it’s a classic in this black/cream that it will go with so much. Also the new Banana Republic Cozy Slub long sleeve t’s are excellent. I love the one I have here in black are a perfect fit in medium and beautiful quality. I am going to buy white too. A good basic to have in the wardrobe.

My jeans here are a classic and one of my favorites for their straight leg fit and mid-rise. The Reese Straight Leg Kut from the Kloth. I have them in petite and they hit at the right place. Mine are a few years older and they have updated the hem. The sandals are a few seasons older from Everlane, but J. Crew has some thin leather ones that are similar.. I have them in white too and they run true to size.

I have also been looking for a lightweight jacket and noticed everyone wearing oversized blazers now, which looks so great. I have been rummaging through my son’s closets, but none are quite long enough. I found this black linen blazer that is machine washable and has a cute light blue collar you can pop-up. I will dress it up with dresses and skirts and down with my jeans and t-shirts. The longer and oversized look is fun and current.

Here I just threw it over my shoulder. It’s a versatile piece.

On a trip to Target, I spied two dresses that were pretty and fun. I find myself wearing dresses so much in the warm months. For everyday spring and summer, Target items seem to always be current, have pockets and wear well too. I found this maxi dress in a soft blue ( again kind of a theme here) stripe and thought this would be great for Easter, for weekends and even as a cover-up.

This tie-dye dress was so cute I grabbed it on the way out. This runs small and I bought a large. I love the gauze fabric. It might be my going out dress when the time comes again! It also comes in a lovely blue version!

Well that’s my fashion ramblings and philosophy – clean your closet, buy less and classics that update what you already own. A few new dresses are a nice seasonal thing to add as well and give you a little lift!

Please visit these fellow bloggers and see what they have for you in spring fashion ideas…


Classic Casual Home

Cindy Hattersley Design

Most Lovely Things

The Age Of Grace

Sarah London Style

Southern Hospitality

I also wanted to say thanks to all of you who stopped by and left comments on the last Californians at Home Post featuring my friend Elizabeth’s home. I never have had so many comments on a post so thank you and thanks Elizabeth!

Kim

Links may sometimes generate a small commission. Thank you for supporting the blog.

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: #bloggerroundup, #springclassics, #springdresses, #springfashion, #springupdate, #targetstyle, #toryburch

Spring Dresses for a Mood Boost

April 1, 2020 By kimwheeler 6 Comments

Hello my lovely friends. I thought I’d veer off the usual topic today and go a little crazy with some spring dresses. This week I made a decision to thoroughly shut down the news and did a deep dive into books, good shows and it’s been somewhat restorative.. The pretty California weather this week has really helped my mood. I also cut out the nightly ice cream habit my husband had gotten us into since quarantine and even began a little ballet workout besides my two walks. Maybe it’s spring and the lighter days, but is anyone else feeling some optimism? Even the announcement that we will be doing this for another month was fine with us. I don’t think we are eager to give up this slower pace of life just yet.

In my happier mindset I gathered a few dresses to consider. I know some of you said you’d be open to looking at some spring fashions also. We will be out and about someday soon. Why not get the closet cleaned out while you have time and add a pretty thing to look forward to wearing?

I have not done any shopping except for a few books since I’ve been in. I just wasn’t in that mindset, but doing this post I realized retailers are hurting now. Clothing is dramatically reduced now and you may get a dress for a song. Most of the items linked here are on some sort of sale, so look for the sale codes.

This simple shift dress at Anthropologie caught my eye. The texture, simplicity and pockets make it a cute dress for running about in warmer weather. I would love this with brown leather flat sandals, hoop earrings and a ponytail- the look many moms wore summer days in the 1970’s. It’s classic chic and perfect for a BBQ or date night.

I was attracted to the print on this blue midi dress. This looks so easy to throw on and I’d pair it with a crochet tote and some slides and you could be set for lunch out or a candlelit dinner at your own abode.

If you don’t have a midi-dress this is the season to try one. I personally like the shirtdress style of this Anthro dress below, which feels like everyday wear and can even be worn with boots in cooler months. The pattern is particularly cute and retro. Most of the Anthro dresses come in options for plus sizing and many in petite.

I have always love Marimekko patterns since I was young and this tunic would be a classic to keep for years. It can be worn without the belt for more of a shift look.

Madewell has this cute wrap midi dress and it’s sweet.

I’m a fan of denim dresses and Madewell has a lot of them now. This one is my favorite, but check them all out here.

This linen shift by Tory Burch has retro detailing.

Back in February, I ran to Target to get paper towels and found this white denim dress at the same time I found that cute top from the previous post. I snapped this pic in the dressing room, but it shows how cute this is for a inexpensive dress. It comes in plus sizes also. I bought a size medium so it was a little longer and not tight. It’s sitting waiting on a hook in the closet, but I know it’ll get some wear this summer.

As long as we are at Target, I also love the red of this long dress. It comes in a black with polka dots also. I just think this would be cute for poolside or out to dinner with a big beaded necklace.

Anthro’s shift dress has a fun California boho feel.

This pretty Diane Von Furstenburg dress is in silk and is something that would flatter most any body type. I’m also just in love with the blue tone and roses.

Something about this little print crepe dress is so appealing. I love the necklines and sleeves and the green botanicals.

I think white is such a flattering color and everyone should have one pretty summer white dress in the closet. This See by Chloe dress is charming with its ruffle cuffs.

This J. Crew shirtdress would be a top ten in my closet during summer with its pockets and you could add a belt to change it up. Right now it’s 40% off with code SPRING.

I keep going back to this red floral dress also by J. Crew. I love the ruffled collar and again casual feel with the pockets. This comes in black as well and is the thing we could all use to pop on and go.

This halter dress from loft is darling.

Trina Turk also has a cute halter style with its Sunglasses Dress. Love this print and the yellows.

I also fell in love with this Doen number..

A woven tote or purse is another thing to think about adding charm to spring looks. This Bali Classic Tote caught my eye..

I adore a delicate flat sandal and this Daydream Strappy Sandal ticks all the boxes here..

I hope you find this a little hopeful and distracting right now with all that is happening. I have also been requested to do a jeans and white button-up post..so that is coming! This week I plan to get to my closet and began pulling out my spring things and see what is a keeper and what’s to go.

I finally shared a video tour of our bathroom remodel on my Instagram if you want to check it out. I’ll be doing a post soon on all the materials. Please follow along on Instagram where I post daily and for fun, Pinterest.

Hoping you are all coping okay and taking care of yourselves. A lot of us are also doing double duty caring for an extended family group. It can be a lot, so be good to yourself and take time for you, so you don’t get run down.

Kim

Links on this post may sometimes generate commission. Thank you for supporting the blog!

Filed Under: Spring dresses, Uncategorized Tagged With: #April, #dresses, #fashiontrends, #springcloset, #springdresses, #springfashion, #springstyle, #springwardrobe, #stylepost

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Blogger, writer and explorer sharing about my native California, and parts farther afield. Join me here where I chat about things to love in the worlds of design, fashion, home, travel and culture.

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  • Have you tried smashed potatoes? | Most Lovely Things
  • Signature Style- Resort Looks and Packing Tips
  • Signature Style- Resort Looks and Packing Tips
  • Signature Style- Resort Looks and Packing Tips
  • Signature Style- Resort Looks and Packing Tips
  • Creative Wall Decor Part 1: Art and Gallery Walls
  • Why We Love Our New Solo Stove | Most Lovely Things
  • Weekend – Cool Readers, Spring Things, J Crew’s New Direction & More
  • Weekend – Cool Readers, Spring Things, J Crew’s New Direction & More
  • Weekend – Cool Readers, Spring Things, J Crew’s New Direction & More
Well after all this weather, and so much indoor ti Well after all this weather, and so much indoor time, I’m officially sick of everything and I am ready to give the home a little refresh. Homegoods and TJMaxx have some great spring items and a promotion with items from France, Italy, etc. They can be a good source for outdoor pots, new pillows, rugs and decorative bits. It’s good time to find a ‘few’ emphasis on few, new things for the home. They carry unique items, many one offs, but you have to be a discerning shopper.. What to look for and what to avoid on this little clip. 

I’ll be taking more about how to shop smart at these sort of places on the upcoming blog as well. What’s been your experience at these stores? I have had good luck and bad and I think you have to be smart about what you choose and don’t fill a home with these things. 

I’d love to hear your thoughts on shopping there. 

#californiahomestyle #springhomedecor #homegoods #homegoodsfinds #homeaccesories #northerncalstyleblog
A little spring in the kitchen while another storm A little spring in the kitchen while another storm rages. Met a friend downtown and we had to dash as the storm hit and power was out minutes later. Stay safe everyone!
I thought I’d reshare our pool bath/powder room I thought I’d reshare our pool bath/powder room today as my builder @mikemccloudconstruction shared it too. I still love the way it came out! I had saved many inspiration pictures of how I wanted this to look. I was lucky Mike helped me make this happen. A good builder who listens and has ideas as well, helps so much. I’m sharing some of  the extra details up close. 

I loved this blue sort of organic watery tile for a pool bath. I also knew I wanted an open shelf for all the pool towels so people could grab them on the way out the door. The @serenaandlily mirror definitely has that nautical almost porthole, sort of look and picked up the unfinished oak color. I used an RH pendant light and the sink is Victoria and Albert. The counter is from a slab of @vadaraquartz that I spilt and used in the laundry as well as the boy’s bath. I choose an inexpensive cement tile for this space and the connecting laundry/mud room which works with drippy pool feet!  It’s been almost four years and all still looking great! 

DM me if anyone wants details I left out! I thought I did a post on this, but maybe not! I need to do that with all the baths. 

Hope you all have a good week and get some nature in the first day of spring! 

#californiaremodel #poolbath #poolbathroom #powderroom #serenaandlily #mikemccloudconstruction #northerncalstyle #lunabaytile #vadaraquartz
On the Weekend post.. Do you love toile? I adore i On the Weekend post.. Do you love toile? I adore it and I am sharing some pretty toile pieces, beautiful woven leather bags in fun colors, cute sweatshirts, a trench coat that stands out, the new book about the story of J.Crew, and more! 

Juliet and Elizabeth have great things to dive into this weekend too…

Stop on by our blogs- links as always, in our bios or stories:
@northerncalstyle 
@makemineaspritzer 
@pineconesandacorns

Have a great weekend! Hope you got a little sun while it was out. ☀️

#weekendpost #bayareablogger #paloalto #evereve #toile #cos #madewell #jcrewbook #northerncalifornia #californiastyle #trenchcoat
Do you stress about what to pack for getaways and Do you stress about what to pack for getaways and resort vacations? This month’s Signature Style is for you! Cindy and I are sharing our tips and favorite sources for warm weather looks.  You need a few good pieces like a great linen jacket, a swimsuit you love, a couple of coverups, and a pretty dress and you’re nearly ready. More ideas and suggestions on our blogs! 

Hope there is a sunny getaway in your future!☀️
As always links are in our bios and stories..
@northerncalstyle 
@cindyhattersley

#resortwear #resortdress #resortpacking #whattowearresort
Just a little clip of some of the stylish looks se Just a little clip of some of the stylish looks seen at the @bnpparibasopen . I always love to see how people mix it up including the guys! Nice to see so many cute looks and cool hats. Loved the Day Glo brights and florals the best. Hope you get some ideas if you are going to this tournament or doing something fun in the sun soon! ☀️

Thank you to all the sweet people who kindly let me share their looks ! 

Also, due to weather..the Signature Style resort dressing post with Cindy is postponed until tomorrow. Sorry I had no Internet here in Los Gatos yesterday and 89 mile an hour winds so I have been unable to work! Back at it today. Hope you all are doing okay after yesterday’s storm! 

#bnp #bnpparibasopen #tennisparadise #whattowearbnp #tennis #tournamentlooks #indianwells #northerncalstyle
How beautiful is this? We are the embodiment of lo How beautiful is this? We are the embodiment of love in our actions.  This is a wonderful account and @yung_pueblo ‘s book ‘Lighter’ is top of the NYTimes list too. 

Happy Monday. 💛
Are you watching the @bnpparibasopen ? I just got Are you watching the @bnpparibasopen ? I just got back from three whirlwind days with pals and we had a ball. It was so good to be in the sun and and warmth -with snow capped California mountains as a backdrop.  We went in the beginning part of the tournament which we always do, and got to see Andy Murray, Sabalenka, Zverev, Raducanu, and so many fantastic other players. We basically eat, slept and breathe tennis for two days straight and we loved it!  You can still catch play on the @tennischannel 🎾

I will share another Reel of all the stylish people.. Something about tennis brings out the sharpest dressers and there was excellent people watching. 

If you love tennis, this is a bucket list tournament. They call the fifth slam and it’s getting crazy popular so plan a year ahead of you want to go. We reserved our hotel that was walking distance a year ago. More tips on my BNP post that I update each year. 
Link in bio! 

#tennisparadise #bnpparibasopen #indianwellstennisgarden #bnp #bnptips  #andymurray #zverev #raducanu #sabalenka #tennis #californiatennis #discoverpage #tennislove #tennisgirl
I separated the sectional and sort of like it apar I separated the sectional and sort of like it apart. This RH couch is a LOT of maintenance and can look pretty deflated after a weekend of hanging out. In hindsight, I’d buy a couch that does not require so much fluffing and cushion alternating. I snapped this pic because it was one of the times I had the pillows looking nice on it. You also need a lot of pillows to not get swallowed up by it. I call it the great white.

The local RH actually has a cleaning team that steams and fluffs their couch and I’ve seen them before the shop opens. I found it hard to get reviews on this couch before buying because RH does not have them online and if you notice they don’t do social media… so I’m just putting it out there. I will share what I love here,but I think it helps to be transparent about what is a disappointment too. 

#rhcloud #whitecouches #livingroom #californiahomestyle #thecaliforniahouse #cloudcouch #restorationhardware
The weekend post is up and I’m sharing things on The weekend post is up and I’m sharing things on my radar this week -like cute ballet flats and a darling spring bag, an eye brightner with sunscreen, and cool readers. Also the new head of design at J.Crew @olympiamarie and her fun account with styling inspiration and vintage J. Crew gems. Plus what to do with those tangelos, and lemon almond scones.

It’s all on the blog! 

Don’t forget to stop by Juliet and Elizabeth’s..our blogs- links as always, in our bios or stories:
@northerncalstyle 
@makemineaspritzer 
@pineconesandacorns
Have you ever made a rustic style scone? These are Have you ever made a rustic style scone? These are the only kind I’ve ever made and it all started when I had one in Paris at the @rosebakeryparis years ago. My sweet mom later bought me their cookbook. I was thrilled and have made scones with their fantastic recipe ever since. 

I was missing my mom and thinking about her as today is her birthday, (actually tomorrow she was a Leap Year baby) and made these yesterday.  She also loved lemon so I tried a variation adding Meyer Lemon zest and juice and lots of almonds and it was SO good!  These are a great treat for a rainy afternoon with tea. ☕️ Recipe is on my story.. and I’ll add it to my cookery highlight. The Breakfast Lunch Tea book from Rose Bakery is a treasure if you can still get it with many delicious recipes using whole grains and healthy ingredients. 

It’s raining cats here! Def scone weather!

#sconeday #sconerecipe #rosebakeryparis #breakfastlunchtea #teatime #sconehome #lemonalmondscones
Daffodils.. so much spring packed into a tiny flow Daffodils.. so much spring packed into a tiny flower. Loving these $1.99 bunches at @traderjoes and seeing the little guys on my walks too. 💛 

We have more storms this week! Winter 2023 is feeling very long to this Californian.

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