How to Wear Neon

One trend I just can't get enough of this summer is neon. All things bright and colorful are totally in! Now this doesn't mean head to toe florescent shades- we're not going for glow-in-the-dark here. I suggest starting out by mixing in a bright top or a bright skirt and some colorful accessories. Keep the rest muted and neutral. Check out this look I put together and let me know what you think!

Button Front Tops by Equipment
Sandals by Steve Madden

Ok, so I couldn't resist adding in this other neon option. Who wouldn't want to rock a bright pink skirt for a fun night out? It's perfect. Pair with a neutral or floral print top for a daytime look, or add a contrasting neon color for an eye-catching evening look! What do you think?

Neon Pink Skirt
Topshop ($45)

Country Club Chic

Inspired by my past weekend at a charity golf tournament and the many years I spent playing tennis, my head has been swimming in khaki and seersucker. Unfortunatey, this preppy attire often has a bad rep- but I'm determined it can be trendy! This doesn't mean you have to be covered in head-to-toe whale prints. Preppy can be done tastefully and still make a statement other than "My daddy has lots of money and I'm wearing this just to rub it in."

Check out the pieces I've selected below and let me know what you think! When I imagine preppy chic I always think cute sneakers, tailored shorts (not too short of course) and crisp polos or button-up tops. Always top off with a blazer or cardigan. For an extra bold statement, tie it around your waist! And definitely don't be afraid to expirement with bold colors or prints. As for where to buy or some extra inspiration, think Ralph Lauren or JCrew; their ads will certainly getting you in a preppy state of mind.

Cardigans by Maison Martin Margiela
Watches by Michael Kors

Summer Hairstyles to Beat the Heat

Okay okay I get it- it was super hot today! I'm pretty sure Toronto was on track to break some records with this intense one-two punch of high temps and suffocating humidity. But enough of the complaints, let's figure out a way to beat this heat! No more whining and wishing you could be on vacation instead of stuck in the office... though it does sound nice. Whenever the forecast calls for heat advisory warnings, my hair goes up in a bun without giving it a second thought. Who can stand to deal with long hair is these conditions? That should be your first step to adapting! Follow along for a few of my favorite ways to combat cruel weather with practical summer hairstyles.

The Top Knot

Braided Top Knot
thefirekeeper.blogspot.com

Since this is my go-to hairstyle, let's start with this one. A top knot is so practical and so easy, and I have yet to see a girl who can't rock it. This particular style was french braided up the back and tied into a bun at the top of the head. Since I just mastered the art of French braiding, I think I'll need a bit more practice before I can perfect this one, but I love it already! Just imagine, no hair sticking to the back of your neck... pure bliss! You can even go a couple days without washing (refer to my dry shampoo post for this tip) and toss it up in a bun and carry on your sweaty day.

The Side Braid

Ellegirl

When I think of braided hair styles, I immediately think of Lauren Conrad- anyone else? She is the epitomy of effortless, beachy hair. Take a cue from this look and sweep your bangs out of the way with this fun side braid. No more dealing with you bangs plastered to your face. If you have some extra time in the morning before work, use a 1" barrel and curl your ends to give your hair some more volume. My favorite product to amplify this look is a curl-enhancing spray. I like Garnier Fructis Wonder Waves because it's cheap and it works! This gives you that just-came-from-the-beach look, but I've also heard that simple salt water can do the trick.

The Side-Swept Braid

FashionFame

A side-swept braid is a girl's best friend. As long as your hair is long enough to pull off to the side, you can wear this look. Play with different ways of parting your hair. This side part is probably the most popular, but it also works with a center part or even a simple headband. Get more creative with a fishtail or French braid- any one will keep your hair out of the way and keep you happy!

Style Obsession: Boho Fringe

After my brief love affair with feathers, I've moved on to a new obsession: fringe! Remember how I was telling you that summer is the perfect time to try out a new trend you'd otherwise shy away from? This is exactly the thing I'm talking about! Why not try out a fringe top as a cover-up or swap your go-to clutch for a fringe crossbody next Saturday night? Here are a few of my picks, none of which will break the bank of course. Browse through and let me know what you think!

Free People Fringe Tee
Bloomingdale's ($97.18)

Jeffrey Campbell Fringe Bag
Revolve Clothing ($110)

Navajo Fringe Tee
Urban Outfitters ($39)

Topanga Canyon Fringe Crossbody
Lucky Brand ($149)

White Dip Dye Fringe Bandeau Coverup
Topshop ($64)

Feathers: From Bridal to Everyday

When it comes to fashion, I usually gather inspiration from my daily surroundings. Whether it's photography, a movie, or people I pass on the street, it all comes together into creating an outfit the next day. Lately, I've been flipping through bridal magazines and frequenting a handful of wedding blogs on a daily basis... I recently got engaged! With all of this wedding exposure, I've been craving some of the feather detail I see in glamorous designer gowns. Though I don't see myself walking down the aisle in a feathered frock, I do plan to incorporate some feathers into my summer wardrobe! And don't worry about splurging because all these choices below are well under $20!

Selia Yang

Monique Lhuillier

Feather and Bead Earrings
Nordstrom ($8.00)

Tribal Feather Necklace
Delia's ($16.50)

Silver Feather Ring
Kohl's ($9)

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding: Guys' Edition

For any one of you guys who may have found your way to my blog, this is for you! Oh, and you girls that love to dress your man, this is also for you. Summer weddings can be tricky when it comes to judging the appropriate attire and dress code. My favorite rule of thumb (thanks Mom!) is that it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed. That being said, I've heard enough complaints from uncomfortable guys in tuxes to know that it's no easy task for you to dress up if you don't have to. Your first step is to check out the invitation. Is it a bright, fun stationary or is it elegant and traditional? This should give you a big clue. If you're still unsure, do a little research on the venue and reception. Better yet, just ask! Here are a few examples of what to wear to your summer weddings.

Traditional Wedding

HUGO Black Wool Suit
Nordstrom ($449.90)

A traditional wedding should call for traditional attire; a black suit. Unless specified on the invitation, you shouldn't be required to wear a tux. The best part about these weddings is that you probably already have a suit in your closet that works. As long as it fits well, you should be fine! Any alterations should be arranged at least a week in advance. Don't have a suit? Don't fret! This is the perfect time to invest in one. Styles don't change all that much from year to year, so don't be afraid to purchase something on sale like the one above. It does help to go to a store that does alterations for you or at least has someone who specializes in fitting and tailoring.

Casual Wedding

Ludlow cotton suit
JCrew ($248)

Ok guys, this is your chance to relax and get comfortable! Casual, outdoor weddings leave much more room for creativity. First of all, opt for a lighter, more breathable fabric than wool like cotton or linen. You may want to avoid black suits as well. I recommend a lighter grey or khaki color if you'll be in the sun. Are you celebrating a destination wedding on a beach resort? Then you might not need a suit jacket at all! Again, check out the invitation and see if you can pick out any tips.

Style Obsession: Nude Tones

Go nude this summer! Ok, well not completely nude, but definitely get inspired by these neutral tones. I personally love a tan dress, but if you're hesitant to rock all one shade then invest in just a nude top to start. You can pair it with white denim for now, and swap them out for jeans or leggings in the fall! The best part about this neutral shade is that it will definitely carry well into the fall season. As for accessories, I recommend a gold watch or even wood bangles to give it a real 70's vibe. Here are a few of my frugal picks. I especially love this nude dress from Topshop. What do you think?

Day Dresses by Topshop
Pumps by Corso Como

What to Wear to a Summer Wedding

It's wedding season! If your summer schedule is already filling with weekend nuptials, then you might be in need of a little guidance. There are so many different ways to tie the knot that it can often be tough for guests to dress for the right occasion. I've narrowed the pool down to two main types of ceremonies, traditional and casual. Follow along for some wedding styling tips!

Traditional Wedding

Vince Camuto
Nordstrom ($130)

Anthropologie ($198)

For a traditional wedding, the biggest concern is how to dress for the church ceremony. If you're not familiar with the particular denomination, then I'd say it's best to play it safe and cover your shoulders. You'll be pretty embarrassed if you show up in a strapless dress while everyone else is covered up. That's why I love this particular Vince Camuto dress so much. It's modest yet trendy at the same time. If you are going to a church that requires you cover up, try a neutral blazer like the Anthropologie one above!

Casual Wedding

Paradisa Dress
J.Crew ($168)

Casual weddings have much more room for interpretation. As long as you follow some basic rules like not wearing all white (obviously) and wear a dress you'd feel comfortable moving and dancing in. Remember, this is a family affair. Don't wear your Vegas dress that would make your grandmother blush. One more thing to keep in mind: if you know the color scheme of the wedding, I would avoid blending in with it. You might be pretty frustrated if you have to keep explaining that although you are wearing a yellow gown like the other girls, you're not actually in the bridal party. Just keep that in mind!

Style Obsession: Polka Dots are Back

After spotting two of my favorite celebs sporting this polka dot trend, I couldn't help but share this with you! Amanda Seyfried gave this retro trend an instant update my mixing with florals, and Ashley Olsen stuck with a classic style in her beautiful blue polka dot skirt. How anyone as petite as her can pull off a maxi skirt is beyond me. Inspired by Amanda's polka dot and floral combination, I've created one look I can't wait to try out! What do you think of this trend?

Ashley Olsen
Nylon

Amanda Seyfried
mystyle.com

Shorts by One Teaspoon

Wedges by Jeffrey Campbell

Pretty Summer Florals Under $100

Flirty, floral prints are a summer staple for me. Scarves, skirts, dresses, even shoes- it's the perfect way to exude a whimsical, romantic summer vibe! Even better, get this look based on your very own budget. What do you think of these budget-friendly looks?

Asos ($43.10)

Asos ($86.20)

Kensie ($88)

Topshop ($95)

Topshop ($35)

Red White & Blue Inspired

This 4th of July, celebrate in style without going too overboard! Embrace your inner prep, country girl, or whatever makes you feel most patriotic. For me, it's definitely preppy. This means boat shoes or Keds, girlie dresses and headbands. Check out this look below and let me know what you think! How will you be showing your true colors this 4th of July?

Day Dresses by Asos
Shoulder Bags by Rebecca Minkoff

Bright Denim Under $100

I am really loving this bright denim trend, especially since it seems to be sticking around for a while! When I am in search of jeans on a tight budget, Urban Outfitters is my go-to store. Below, I picked out a couple options from UO and two other great budget-friendly options. Do you have a favorite place to buy your jeans? Mine need to have some stretch (hey, I've gotta be comfortable!) and I'm digging these high rise ones below.

Urban Outfitters ($58)

Urban Outfitters ($58)

Topshop ($80)

Delia's ($44.50)