What's On My Radar: Current Loves

With Dapper Day this weekend here in California, I'm feeling the itch to dress up for the occasion.  I won't be attending this year (I'll be holding down the fort at the boutique), but it makes no difference because I pretty much live everyday like it's Dapper Day!  That being said, here are my picks for this month:

Pinup Girl Clothing

1. Peasant Top in Baby Pink

2. Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Cat Print in Gray

3. Peasant Top in Red

4. Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Yellow Umbrellas Print

5. Peasant Top in Black

6. Jenny Skirt in Mary Blair Circus Elephant Print

Just give me all the Mary Blair prints.  All.  Of.  Them.  Although these skirts haven't released yet (but they will soon!) I've already created outfits for them in my head.  They're much too bright and fun to pass up!

Modcloth

1. Sunny How That Works Dress in Pink Stripes

2. Luck Be a Lady Dress in Black and Lace

3. What She Sways Goes Dress

4. Speck for Yourself Dress in White

5. Sunshine State of Mind Dress

I feel like you can always find something you love at Modcloth.  Their endless stock can sometimes be overwhelming, but their filter function is top notch.  Even if you don't have an exact idea of what you're looking for, you'll find it with ease.  That pink floral dress is seriously calling my name!

Betsey Johnson

1. Octopus Cosmetic Bag

2. Taco Wristlet

3. Shark Cosmetic Case

4. Avocado Wristlet

5. Pinwheel Crossbody

I'll admit, I already have the taco purse I featured.  But come on, how adorable is it?  Betsey seriously has her novelty purse game down and I'm dying to add more to my collection.  I'm thinking the octopus is next...

Tangerine Menagerie

1. Alice In Wonderland Brooch

2. Pink Spring Flower Fairy Brooch

3. White Rabbit Brooch

4. Flying To Neverland Brooch

5. Pinup Mermaid Brooch

Julia of Tangerine Menagerie is such an incredible artist, I seriously think her brooches are the best.  Not only are they gorgeous, they're incredibly detailed and well made.  I feel like any of her creations are perfect for Dapper Day, or if you're like me, everyday.

Trashy Diva

1. Calli Sofia Box Bag

2. Sweet Romance Navette Ring

3. Ziggy Wrap Top

4. Ashley Skirt

5. Large Poppy Hair Clip

6. Loraine Heel

My heart skips a beat every time Trashy Diva launches a new print!  This Deco Daffodil print is perfect for the upcoming summer months and easily pairs with bright colored accessories.  My personal favorite is red with gold undertones.

Sephora

1. Dior Rouge Brilliant Lipgloss

2. Besame Sweetheart Glaze Lipgloss

3. Vernis À Lèvres Pop Water Glossy Stain

4. Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro Lip Stain

5. Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Gloss

Of course, one must top off their Dapper Day look with the perfect red lip.  Sephora offers a ton of choices so here are a few of my favorites.  If I were going, I'd probably opt for a stain so I wouldn't have to worry about reapplying all day.  Thankfully, these all offer great longevity!


Will you be attending Dapper Day on Sunday or going to the expo this weekend?  What are your outfit plans?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Marnie and Me

It's that time again: another Mommy and Me post!  These particular outfits were worn for a family wedding we attended last weekend.  Tatyana makes the cutest toddler dresses, along with matching mommy dresses that have their own grown up flair (here's the matching one).  While I love nesting dolls, I couldn't pass up their new Marnie dress.  I love the soft lining in the bodice, full skirt, large pockets, and the adorable print.  I'd also like to point out that this is the only halter dress in my closet.  I normally hate halter tops, but that's how much I love this dress.  I heard a toddler version of the Marnie is in the works, so you know I'm going to snatch it up for Bianca as soon as it drops!









Dress- c/o Tatyana
Shoes- Chelsea Crew
Belt- From another dress
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Bracelet- c/o Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski

Bianca's Dress- c/o Tatyana
Bianca's Shoes- H&M

I've mentioned that I switched from a Nikon to a Canon camera last Christmas.  As much as I'd love to sing praises about the experience, I've had a really hard time adjusting.  I've been working with Nikon for over five years and collected a fair amount of lenses and fancy equipment for it.  Since I switched to Canon, I've yet to even purchase the lens I like to use.  Because of my hesitance to make such a large purchase, I've often considered going back.  That is until today!  My new lens is on the way and I can't wait to play with it.  I'm hoping that this will be the start to enjoying the Canon experience.  If you're a photographer, what do you enjoy using?  Have you ever switched brands?  I'd love to hear your thoughts.

I'd also like to announce that I've officially opened up my blog to sidebar sponsors!  It's been a few years since I've offered them, but I'm ready to jump back on that bandwagon.  If you're a blog or a small business and like to advertise with me, please click on the Sponsor tab at the top of this page.

xoxo

Ashley

Watermelon

One of my favorite places to visit in Temecula is their wine country.  I'll admit that while I don't drink, the scenery alone is to die for.  I love to get up at dawn and take a long drive on their endless winding roads.  Normally these roads are pretty much empty in the morning, but of course, there were tons of people watching me while I took these pictures.  It was worth the stares of bewilderment!







   

Top- c/o Unique Vintage

Skirt- c/o Unique Vintage
Shoes- c/o Unique Vintage
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Earrings- c/o Unique Vintage

This skirt is what all my fruit filled dreams are made of!  It's been at the top of my wish list since they first previewed it online, so you can imagine my excitement when it arrived at my door.  This skirt is not only adorable, but the fabric is stiff yet light, the perfect weight for my ideal silhouette.  It can easily be worn with or without a petticoat and the pockets are a dream!  Bianca immediately tried to claim it as her own, but she has a few years to go before she can fit into my clothes.  I both look forward to and dread that day!

xoxo

Ashley

Bon Voyage

If it isn't broken, why try and fix it?  That's what I tell myself when I plan an outfit that contains a Jenny skirt and peasant top.  I can't help the fact that the fit, the design, and those lust-worthy prints have me begging for more.  Thankfully, Pinup Girl Clothing has given us a second round of their ever popular Mary Blair collection.  In addition to adding a few more of Mary's designs, they've reworked some of last year's favorites in new color ways.  As much as I adore my original train print skirt (seen here), this pink version appeases the girly girl in me like nothing else!













Top- Pinup Girl Clothing
Skirt- Pinup Girl Clothing
Shoes- Chelsea Crew
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Bracelet- c/o Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski

My favorite part about visiting my mom (other than seeing her of course) is exploring the beauty this town has to offer.  In addition to mind blowing scenic landscapes, there's also a quaint "old town" area that makes my heart flutter.  I originally came to old town to photograph the train mural in this outfit, but even at 6am the lighting was awful.  As perfect as the background may have been, I settled for this tiny retail location which was mostly vacant.  I love the rustic feel of the area and could have spent my entire day there.  I always feel like I need more time when I visit!

It's back to reality today and I'm settling into normal life again.  I spent most of my week antiquing and came across too many things to mention.  I'm serious, the antique scene is incredible!  I ended up taking a mid century bar cart for our living room, a dead stock pink tweed coat with matching floral brooch, a swing dress, and two chiffon nightgowns.  That's all I could fit in my car for the ride home!  I'm looking forward to finding some funky decor to decorate my new bar cart because Kevin and I don't drink.  As always, any suggestions are welcome!

xoxo

Ashley

Victory Floral

I'm writing this post from my impromptu mini vacation.  Yesterday morning I packed Bianca and Rocco into the car and drove to my mom's house.  Kevin has to work this week so I had to leave him behind, along with our other two boys to keep him company.  So far we've enjoyed some time at the pool, the park, and did a bit of shopping.  We're planning on exploring old town tomorrow and I plan on taking a trip to a few of the local wineries (for the photo locations, not the wine!).  The world is our oyster this week!









Dress- Trashy Diva
Shoes- Bettie Page
Bracelet- c/o Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Catnip

In the midst of the packing frenzy, my tripod somehow didn't make it into my car.  I didn't realize this until much later and was overcome with frustration.  Luckily, my stepdad came to the rescue and took these pictures for me.  I think he did a wonderful job!  I've been dying to take some pictures in this Trashy Diva Louise dress and yesterday was the perfect opportunity.  While it's considered a "winter floral" to most, I feel like this dress easily translates to spring.  The gathering at the bust and the a-line skirt truly makes this dress a comfortable and flattering everyday outfit...  For all seasons!

xoxo

Ashley

Polka Dot Nora

I'm happy to report that I'm officially rested after the jam-packed weekend I had.  Between getting up before 4am to work at the Yard Sale, the two hour drive to and from, and the general hustle and bustle of the day, I needed a full day to recover.  After all, I can't party (or I guess work in this case) as hard as I used to!  Most of my Sunday was spent in my pajamas, but I was up long enough to adult and pick new appliances for our remodeled kitchen and document this gorgeous outfit.  I'd say overall this past weekend was a win!











Dress- c/o Karina Dresses
Belt- From another dress
Shoes- Modcloth
Brooch- Luxulite
Bracelet- c/o Touchstone Crystal by Swarovski

I love wearing Karina Dresses because they're just as comfortable as they are flattering.  I normally wear their wrap style dresses (seen here and here) but opted for something different this time around.  The Nora dress has slight gathering near the shoulders, a flattering neckline, and a thick banded bodice for the ultimate complimentary shape.  Karina Dresses are always made in the USA from a stretchy and breathable microfiber fabric that doesn't wrinkle or lose its shape.  Oh, and did I mention this dress also has pockets?  Game changer!  I'm thinking of trying their new Mia dress, it totally has a 40's feel and I'm all about that right now.

I'm feeling the itch to get away from my little town this week.  I'm thinking of either visiting my mom for the week or taking Bianca to Disneyland again.  Both will require lots of driving, but after being stuck in my house last week I think it's more than worth it!  Either way, I'm determined to make some lifelong memories with my little lady.

xoxo

Ashley

Circus

This week has been stressful, and I'm being conservative with that term.  We decided to hire a company to paint the interior of our home, which took two days.  Now I should have realized this, but Bianca, my three dogs, and I were confined to my bedroom during that time.  Every single one of us went stir crazy!  I spent the next day taking Rocco to the vet (again) and finalizing the work from the painters.  Unfortunately, there was some damage to our kitchen tile from the paint, so yesterday we were confined to the bedroom while they stripped and resealed our floors.  Thankfully, everything is finally done and normal life can resume.  But boy, these last few days have been a mess!











Dress- Pinup Girl Clothing (no longer available)
Shoes- c/o Unique Vintage
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Hair piece- NicCoCo Creations
Earrings- SparkleLux
Bracelet- Swarovski

This dress certainly brightened up my week!  I'd been on the hunt for the long discontinued Zooey dress for what seems like years.  In addition to the adorable circus print, I love the flattering silhouette of this dress.  It was rumored to make a comeback last year, but they're still working on improving the fit.  The bust can be a little wonky, but I think the overall gorgeousness of this dress overshadows it.  I'm looking forward to the re-release of the Doris skirt in this very circus print.  I'm not the biggest fan of the Doris, but it's been improved with a bigger sweep and pockets!  I may have already tried on the sample and fallen in love...

Tomorrow is the PUG Yard Sale and I think I'm ready this time around!  It's been a year since we've hosted one, so I know there's going to be tons of goodies for all.  I'll be working the register, so if you're going make sure you come and say hello!

xoxo

Ashley

Vintage Inspired Disneybounding

With the Pinup Parade in the Park coming up on Sunday and Dapper Day two weeks after that, I thought I'd get the creative juices flowing with some great vintage inspired Disneybounding outfits!  For those unfamiliar with the term, many people enjoy dressing up to go to Disneyland (much like the visitors from years' past).  Some like to take it a bit further and dress like their favorite characters.  From there comes the Disneybound!  Just last week I had an Elsa and BB-8 inspired Disneybound outfits for California Adventure and Disneyland (which you can see on my Instagram), and here are my creations for my next few visits!

Belle

1. Book of Dreams Necklace

2. Rose Flower Crown

3. Rose Pail Bag

4. Angela Pointed Toe Flat

5. Made to Motivate Dress

6. Luminous Glitter Rose Bangle

Alice

1. Twist Scarf in Black and White Stripe

2. Jenny Dress in Sky Blue

3. Dream of the Crop Cardigan in White

4. Jessica Simpson Mandalaye Ballet Flat
5. Black Glitter Glass Bangle Set
6. Tea Time Pendant

Merida

1. Coach Whiplash Leather Saddle Bag

2. Trashy Diva Honey Dress in Green

3. Bow and Arrow Necklace

4. Bear Ring

5. Tan Amany Oxford Pump

Gaston

1. Metallic Gold Twist Scarf

2. Peasant Top in Pastel Yellow

3. Dream of the Crop Cardigan in Red

4. Bettie Page Summer Flat in Black

5. Capri Pants in Black

6. Leopard Velvet Belt

Rapunzel

1. Kate Spade Cedar Street Cali

2. Invitation Designer Dress

3. Daisy Dreams Statement Studs

4. Cream and Lavender Flower Crown

5. Kira Lilac Wedges

Cruella De Vil

1. Glove Story

2. Dalmatian Necklace

3. Faux Fur Scarf

4. Origami Dalmatian Purse

5. Kiss Me Dress in Black
6. Black and White Bangles

Ariel

1. Mermaid Bangle Bracelet

2. Lavender Crop Top

3. Seashell Headband

4. Seashell Compact Mirror

5. Marnie Emerald Green Skirt

6. Seashell Belle Sandal

What's your favorite character to Disneybound as?  Will you be attending Pinup Parade in the Park or Dapper Day?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Waterlilies

Today the rain is in full effect, but yesterday had the perfect amount of warmth and haze.  Since I knew this was the only day to wear a dress without sleeves for awhile, I pulled out my new to me Trashy Diva L'Amour dress in Red Waterlilies print.  I wasn't attracted to the L'Amour cut at first, but it rapidly grew on me.  The keyhole feature in the bust is adjustable, as well as the length of the straps.  It's another one of my "throw on and go" kind of dresses, which seems to be what this momma needs these days!











Dress- Trashy Diva (no longer available)
Shoes- Chelsea Crew

Not even the unfavorable weather could keep this family away from Disneyland today!  I've been looking forward to this day all week, even though we just went to California Adventure on Tuesday.  The fact that Kevin took the day off to be with Bianca and I means everything.  Taking a toddler to Disney is challenging alone, but I've become used to it over time.  I'm looking forward to a fun day with my two favorite people!  I just need to pack a few ponchos...

xoxo

Ashley