a lovely living

It’s been many months since I’ve had an actual outfit post to share with you all. You remember the kind where I actually pull myself together and use an actual camera to shoot some pretty pics and share some style ideas with you? We took some time over the weekend to shoot a few different looks that I’ll be sharing with you over the next week or so. And I have to say it feels really good to be able to create some content in the way I’m used to doing it. I’ve also taken the step to add presets to my blog images (as I’ve grown accustomed to doing on Instagram), and using Lightroom to edit them giving everything a more cohesive feel. Baby steps, but I’m learning and growing here :)

Let’s quickly break down this fun outfit. I shared a post with a bunch of kimono options last month which you can find here, many of which are still available. The one I am wearing today has sold out and restocked a few times, so you can keep an eye on it if interested. Not only are they an outfit maker, but they also make a great swimsuit coverup. There are so many pretty options out there, but the gist of it is to pair a bold kimono with a solid tank (white typically seems to be the best option) and bottoms. Bottoms can range from casual cut-offs to a bright pair of pull on pants as seen here. The elastic waist on these wide leg pants was an immediate selling point for me. I’m still finding it difficult to even put on a wire-bra these days, so comfort is obviously key! They also come in green and black if you want something a little more subtle. I bought this straw hat a year or two ago and it’s been my go-to for the beach and pool. It holds its shape very well. Lastly, I’m loving these Tkees sandals that I finally got my hands on. They continue to sell out for obvious reasons (so chic and so comfy and come at great price point), so I’d put your name on their email list to find out when your size is restocked. If you’re a half size like me, I’d size up. Scroll down to shop exact and similar pieces!

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Happy Friday!! I hope you’ve all had a great week. I have some new arrivals that I wanted to share with you guys, great mix and match pieces for your wardrobe…

These shorts were a no-brainer. I absolutely love the fit and style (I’m in the S). They’ll go with just about everything this summer! And this cropped top was too cute to pass up. Navy is a flattering color for everyone and can pair with so many color combos.

I’ve shared this sweatshirt on here but since I’ve been wearing it non-stop I figured it was worth sharing again. These denim shorts have ended up being my most favorite that I’ve had in years. I have the ‘twist and shout’ wash (runs TTS) which you can see below as well as this ‘natural’ wash (size down one) and love them both.

Here’s that same navy top with pants that are somewhat unexpected for me. They aren’t quite as bold in person (although they make a statement for sure!), but I do love how vibrant they are for summer. The best part though, is how great they feel! Pull on pant with an elastic waist, almost feels as though you’re wearing a wide-legged legging.

This tank was ,arked down to $15 so I grabbed it in this pretty pink and white. The pink is sold out at the moment, but white and blue should still be available. It’s a pretty, basic tank that is great to layer with anything from maxi skirts, to denim shorts.

Here I paired the tank with the pull on pants and used a cute cinch to pull it together and give the waist some shape.

Here are those denim shorts in the ‘twist and shout’ wash. I can’t rave about them enough. This was runs TTS.

Sometimes the most basic of combos is all you need. I haven’t quite decided on the sandals that I have on here. I had ordered my normal size which was too small, sized up and now my foot is still on the very edge. I love the sandal itself, just can’t figure out the sizing (although I’d def recommend sizing up at least one!).

Pink and green is another favorite color combo, especially in these shades!

Although I didn’t bring this jacket home, it was a runner up. I love the double breasted style and love it paired with a cute pair of shorts and a tank for a casual work look. I’m wearing the size 2 and would say it’s TTS. I happen to have my swimsuit on underneath here as I wasn’t exactly planning a try-on!

This light-weight sweater was another cute runner-up. SUper cute for all the obvious reasons :) Wearing the XS in both.

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As with most things as of late, our 4th of July plans may not look exactly as they have in years past, but I’m guessing many of you will be celebrating the day in one form or another. I do own one ‘stars and stripes’ t-shirt, but for the most part my festive style would consist of pulling together pieces that I can wear more than just a handful of days out of the year. Below you’ll find such examples. From stripes, to tie-dye and pretty eyelet details, I found a bunch of pretty pieces that would easily pair together to make an appropriate 4th outfit, but that you’d also hopefully reach for all summer long!

Guys! I have a TRY-ON to share!! Our local Loft store opened its doors this week and although it’s certainly not normal with all of the protocol in order, it was nice to actually be able to see clothes in person again. It wasn’t until I had a handful of clothes to try-on that I found out they were trying to limit the dressing room items while they follow the guidelines and leave clothes set aside for a period of time after someone tries them on…oops. As a result, this is a more concise try-on, but a try-on nonetheless! Our store and many others are also doing curbside pick up. So if you’re more comfortable with that option, I’d take advantage. Also, the prices right now can’t be beat as they work to move out old inventory and get ready for the new. Here are some of the lovely things that I found…

This jumpsuit was adorable. I love that it would allow you to add a bright colored sandal or earring etc. I’m on the 0 here and at 5’7″ had just enough room in the torso area.

Loft always has a good array of basic tanks to pick up, love this one. I loved these jeans, but even after sizing down one (to a 25) they still didn’t fit me as a high-waisted jean. I would have had to size down again in order for them to fit as you can see on the model here. They were still cute, just provided a different look than I was anticipating.

I love this top which also comes in a few other colors. I love how the material is casual yet the style gives it a touch of sophistication. The paper bag shorts were another great find. They aren’t stiff and have a comfortable and classy fit. Wearing an xs in the top and s in the shorts.

I adore the print and colors on this dress. Very versatile for any gatherings you may have this summer. I’m in the xs here which fit, but I could have also sized up to the s for a little more room.

I love this cute, casual combo. I’m always drawn to this lavender shade on this light-weight sweater. It would look to pretty paired with white denim. And these Lou & Grey cargo pants are incredibly light-weight, perfect for summer with tanks and tee’s.

Nothing like an easy, classic look. If you don’t have a white button-up on hand, this is a really good one and it pairs with more than you’d ever expect. I came home with these pants. Love the neutral color which is a great alternative to white with less risk ;) I’m in the xs in the top and sized down to a 25/0 in the bottoms as they run large.

I also brought this top home because I needed to add something pretty to my closet which is so used to jogger and athleisure wear these days!! It does run slightly cropped, which I prefer so the peplum doesn’t hit at the wider part of my hips.

Here’s a better look at the print up close. I’m in the xs.

I suppose it’s not technically summer just yet, but it sure has felt like it this week! School is out, our pool is (thankfully) open and it’s been creeping around 90 degrees the past few days! I’ve been here juggling all the things, between kids the house and work, some days keeping all the balls in the air and others they all seem to be scattered on the ground. Such is life!

I had some time yesterday to browse around and fill my online carts as I kept coming across sale after sale. Everything below is marked down (for the moment) but with most people still doing the bulk of their shopping online, you know sizes have been selling out quickly. I have a few things that I’ve already ordered and will be sure to share over on my Instagram page once they arrive!