Playful in Polka Dots

I love a bright print in summertime. I also love sundresses. Therefore, a sundress with a bright print is the ultimate WIN for me!

In my opinion, dresses are the most flattering clothing choice for my figure. I'm "hippy" and hold most of my weight in my midsection, so a fit-and-flare style such as this dress helps hide the unwanted curvature :)

This yellow polka dot print is not only adorable, but paired with the dress' high neck and low back, the outfit has a 50's feel. I added on some wedges for height, and a statement necklace in emerald green for a pop of contrast and color.

Not a wedge or heel gal? Dress it down by swapping in sandals, and layering on a denim jacket.

Make it your own:

Dress: LOFT, $89.50

Denim Jacket: Old Navy (Similar, $29)

Necklace: J. Crew (Similar, $165)

Wedges: Nordstrom, Franco Sarto, $109.90 (on sale now for $69.90)

Sandals: LOFT, $29.50

Closet Refresh: Patterned Purchases

I've been a little naughty with my wallet lately. I'm really digging a lot of the new styles I'm seeing in my favorite stores this season... and honestly, sometimes I can't resist a good deal.

My most recent shopping excursion resulted in a handful of patterned pieces, perfect for the upcoming winter and holiday season. Here's what I picked up:

Tippi Sweater, J. Crew, $59.99

Naomi Top, J.Crew, $110

Merino Striped Sweater, The Limited, $49.90

Cassidy Ankle Pant, The Limited, $74.90

Silk & Shine Tee, The Limited, $49.90

Evidently, I was on a roll with stripes. What new pieces do you want in your closet this Fall?

Color Me Polka Dotted.

I love polka dots... and so I love that all of my favorite brands are including them in their fall collections this year. (Seriously so excited!)

I pulled some of my favorite spotted samples to share with you. Enjoy!

Tippi Sweater, J. Crew, $89.50

Collection Cashmere Polka Dot Sweater, J.Crew, $268

Polka-Dot Full-Skirt Dress, The Limited, $118

Polka-Dot Sheath Dress, The Limited, $98

Print Jegging Ankle, American Eagle, $29.99

Lace Dot Tank, American Eagle, $24.95

Maria Dress, Kate Spade, $398

Le Pavillion iPhone Case, Kate Spade, $40

On the Dot iPhone Cover, Kate Spade, $35

Which is your favorite polka dotted piece? 

Polka Dots & Ponies: Preakness

A few weeks ago I shared some photos with you all that were taken at Hunt Cup, a steeplechase (i.e. horse race) here in Baltimore. This past weekend, I went to another horse race - Preakness! (For those of you unfamiliar with horse races, think of Preakness like the Kentucky Derby, but much less -- um -- southern?)

Personally, I like to think of these kinds of events as classy tailgating get-togethers. People wear preppy attire, munch on fun snacks, and sit around in circles gossiping. This year's Preakness was no different.

Typically I don something pastel for Preakness because a) it fits the theme and b) it's usually hot out so lighter colors deflect the sun/heat. Last year I wore this Lilly Pulitzer dress. It has alligators and lily pads on it.. so it's perfect, of course.

Preakness 2011 with my friends Katy and Emma.

This year, I wanted to go more Julia Roberts a la Pretty Woman, minus the street-walker detail. If you recall, one scene in the movie depicts her and my future husband, Richard Gere, at the races. She's wearing this:

I found this great navy and white polka-dot dress at Target and ran with it. I really liked it's high-low seam! I also liked that the dress was cinched in the waist, reminiscent of Julia Roberts' belted look.

As for the hat, I didn't have time to find a ribbon that matched my dress, so I wore the same one as last year. (I actually hot glued that pink ribbon on the hat myself. Watch out, Martha Stewart!)

It appears I'm missing a vital accessory-- Richard Gere wasn't available to be my date.

Halfway through the afternoon I tucked the straps into the top of the dress to avoid
tan lines. This dress is now strapless-- so versatile!

The group of ladies at Preakness!

Make it your own:

(Just realized that this outfit is completely from Target!)

Dress: Target $24.99

Sandals: Target (Similar) $15

Hat: Target $14.99 (I removed the straw ribbon, and glued the pink one in its place!)

Hope you were able to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather this past weekend. Have a fabulous week.

<3 

GJU

.:.:.:. Pink & Polka Dots! .:.:.:.

Good Morning & Happy Monday to you, GJU Readers!

Today's post features one of my Black Friday purchases (oops!) that is quickly becoming one of my favorite tees. I like trying to switch it up, and keep my outfits visually appealing. Instead of just a plain tee, Madewell came out with these sheer polka dot and striped tees to go over a solid tank underneath. I absolutely love this idea. You can wear any color you want -- and it just adds a little flair and personality to the look. Not to mention- the back/sleeve part of the shirt is super soft. Big fan.

Here's how I paired the top. What do you think?!

Not sure if you can tell from the photos, but I have a dark purple tank under the tee. I also added on a Merlot colored scarf and cozy jacket!

Make it your own:

Tee: Madewell, $55 (Similar)

Jacket: Candie's for Kohl's (Got this back in high school about 6 years ago)

Leopard Flats: J. Crew Factory

Turquoise Earrings: Handmade from craft fair