Monday, August 29, 2016

Whimsical Blooms

Emily and Fin Flora Dress in Whimsical Blooms Print

I'm keeping the comfy dress streak going with this beauty from Emily and Fin!  Like most ladies, I appreciate anything that feels like pajamas but makes me look like I tried really hard to look good.  This super soft dress not only qualified, but exceeded those expectations.  So if you're like me (lazy but motivated to keep that secret), you can read all about this Flora dress below!

Emily and Fin Flora Dress in Whimsical Blooms Print

Emily and Fin Flora Dress in Whimsical Blooms Print

Emily and Fin Flora Dress in Whimsical Blooms Print

Emily and Fin Flora Dress in Whimsical Blooms Print

Emily and Fin Flora Dress in Whimsical Blooms Print

Dress- c/o Emily and Fin
Shoes- Chelsea Crew
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Soft Lilac 

With its 30's inspired cut and gorgeous floral print, I couldn't resist adding this dress to my closet.  While it's made from a light airy fabric, it's fully lined so no added undergarments are needed.  The wide waistband really flatters your curves and the pleated skirt gives enough body without having to wear an underskirt.  Oh, and there are very large pockets as well!  The crossover bust feature was a little too revealing for my modest taste so I pinned it in the center for a higher neckline.  But if you're okay with cleavage, this dress is ridiculously flattering!  I took a size XS and I found the dress to be a little on the larger side.  I tend to be between XXS and XS in Emily and Fin clothing, this was just one of those times I probably could have sized down.  Thankfully, it wasn't large enough for me to exchange and I've been wearing it during these crazy hot summer days.  It's the perfect summer sundress!

I've been up to my ears in what feels like hectic times, but being able to drive alone and take pictures in this beautiful dress somehow calmed my nerves.  While I'm not one to run away from my problems, taking a few minutes alone can truly change your perspective and give you the motivation to take things head on so you can move past them.  To all my mom friends and/or overwhelmed individuals, I highly recommend a drive or walk alone.  It really made my day!

xoxo

Ashley

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Formosa

Unique Vintage 1940s Style White & Black Dot Formosa Swing Dress

If you're a mother, you know that when your child gets sick you're probably next in line.  Bianca has been under the weather for days yet I had managed to stay healthy.  That is, until I started a high fever waiting in line to see princesses at Disneyland.  I pushed through and stayed in line for Bianca, but we cut our trip short so I could get some much needed rest.  After a full 24 hours of downtime, I emerged wearing this new dress and feeling like a new woman.  Apparently I needed some couch time and a gorgeous dress to bring me back to life!

Unique Vintage 1940s Style White & Black Dot Formosa Swing Dress

Unique Vintage 1940s Style White & Black Dot Formosa Swing Dress

Unique Vintage 1940s Style White & Black Dot Formosa Swing Dress

Unique Vintage 1940s Style White & Black Dot Formosa Swing Dress

Unique Vintage 1940s Style White & Black Dot Formosa Swing Dress

Dress- c/o Unique Vintage
Shoes- Remix Vintage Shoes
Brooch- c/o Erstwilder
Belt- From another dress
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Candy Apple 

Unique Vintage debuted a few new prints in their fan-favorite Formosa dress and this polka dot version was calling my name.  I love the 40's inspired cut, the stretchy fabric, and the versatility of this dress.  It can easily go from the office to date night with the simple addition of accessories!  While I decided to style this dress with black accents, I can see myself playing with some fun colors (yellow, fuchsia, royal blue).  I almost always take an XS is Unique Vintage brand clothing, but I sized up to a S for this dress.  While I think I could have taken my usual size, the small works just as well.  I'm currently trying to convince myself that I don't need the cream floral version (I totally do)!

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, August 22, 2016

Psychedelic Ferns

Trashy Diva Iris Dress in Psychedelic Ferns Print

As an avid Trashy Diva fan I stalk their social media for many reasons (like beautiful editorial shots and fan photos), but one in particular has special perks: sneak peeks at new collection releases!  They always try to leave "Easter eggs" in their posts when a new collection is about to drop, but their hints were very subtle this time around.  Needless to say, I was completely surprised with this Psychedelic Ferns print.  Not only by the gorgeously vibrant print, but a group of new dress styles too!  You can read all about my experience with the new Iris dress below.

Trashy Diva Iris Dress in Psychedelic Ferns Print

Trashy Diva Iris Dress in Psychedelic Ferns Print

Trashy Diva Iris Dress in Psychedelic Ferns Print

Trashy Diva Iris Dress in Psychedelic Ferns Print

Trashy Diva Iris Dress in Psychedelic Ferns Print

Trashy Diva Iris Dress in Psychedelic Ferns Print

Dress- c/o Trashy Diva
Shoes- Chelsea Crew
Bracelets- Pinup Girl Clothing
Earrings- Betsey Johnson

First off, let's talk about the fabric.  Everything is made in a stretch rayon which, if you don't already have a piece from the Ruffled Feathers collection, is amazing!  It's super soft, light, breathable, and provides the perfect amount of stretch.  The Iris dress is a new style that features a halter-like neckline, but doesn't actually wrap around your neck.  The back of the dress is almost identical to the front and the string threads through both sides and ties in the back.  Why is this such a big deal?  If you're like me, halter tops gives me headaches over time.  But the Iris dress provides support from the front and back, which means you get the halter style without the fuss!  There's also a wide waistband, gathered skirt, and side pockets.  As a tall-ish lady (I'm just shy of 5'7") I was initially worried about the knee length skirt, but it was perfect for my frame.  I tend to be a size 2 or 4 in Trashy Diva styles and I took a 2 in this dress.  Because of the stretch in the fabric it does have give, but make sure you pay attention to the size chart in the waist area.  The banded waist does not give like the rest of the dress.  Overall, I'm pleasantly surprised with the Iris.  As someone who tends to purchase the same dress in every print, this was a great dress to coax me out of my comfort zone!

This photo location is one of my favorites.  If you've been following along with my blog this last month, I've mentioned the devastating fires that occurred in my hometown and took my favorite nature preserve.  While the animals and the structure of the nature preserve were saved, the hiking trails, waterfall, and trees are all gone.  It was closed for weeks to clear out the remnants, but it's now open to the public.  I was pleasantly surprised that the picnic area was still intact, which is where I usually take photos.  While it doesn't look entirely the same, I'm happy that there's at least a small area that reminds me that there's still beauty here.  I can't wait to go back to do a little more exploring/take some nature photos.

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, August 19, 2016

Red Fans

Trashy Diva Circle Skirt in Red Fans Print Modcloth Roller Derby Date Top in Black

It's been a pretty busy week but I found some time to blog an outfit!  I had the pleasure of modeling for Pinup Girl Clothing this week, which meant I got some bangin' hair and makeup from the beauty queen/my friend Miss Rockabilly Ruby.  It's not the first time she's made me beautiful, but it was the first time with my bangs.  Of course, she's an absolute sorceress and outdid herself.  So instead of coming home after a long day and relaxing, I made the best of her craft and took these pictures when I got home.

Trashy Diva Circle Skirt in Red Fans Print Modcloth Roller Derby Date Top in Black

Trashy Diva Circle Skirt in Red Fans Print Modcloth Roller Derby Date Top in Black

Trashy Diva Circle Skirt in Red Fans Print Modcloth Roller Derby Date Top in Black

Trashy Diva Circle Skirt in Red Fans Print Modcloth Roller Derby Date Top in Black

Trashy Diva Circle Skirt in Red Fans Print Modcloth Roller Derby Date Top in Black

Top- c/o Modcloth
Skirt- Trashy Diva
Shoes- H&M
Underskirt- Pinup Girl Clothing

I've been meaning to post this Trashy Diva skirt for a while, considering I've worn it many times since I've purchased it.  Their circle skirts are my favorite!  It's a classic silhouette with incredible craftsmanship.  I love the stretch cotton the entire Red Fans collection is made from because it's light, comfortable, and perfect for any season.  I also love how this print works perfectly with stripes.  Because stripes are technically a neutral, right?!

Tonight I'm off to date night with Kevin: to a Guns N' Roses concert.  Let me just say that this was not my idea or plan, but when you're married sometimes you have to take one for the team.  Kevin is fully aware that he owes me one for this, so now I have to think up something for the next date night.  I have a feeling a dance class or a yoga session is in our future!

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, August 15, 2016

Orange Tiki

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Renee Dress in Orange Tiki Print

Is anyone else ridiculously excited for the new Tiki Capsule collection from Pinup Girl Clothing?  As an avid novelty print collector living in area with about ten months of summer, this new collection speaks to my closet!  The Renee dress and the orange tiki print aren't new to the longtime PUG customer, but the combination of the two feels like a match made in heaven.  I couldn't wait to put this one on!

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Renee Dress in Orange Tiki Print

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Renee Dress in Orange Tiki Print

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Renee Dress in Orange Tiki Print

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Renee Dress in Orange Tiki Print

Pinup Girl Clothing Pinup Couture Renee Dress in Orange Tiki Print

Dress- Pinup Girl Clothing
Shoes- Chelsea Crew
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Hair Flower- c/o NicCoCo Creations

If you already own a Renee, the sizing of this dress is on point with the others.  I ordered my usual size and it fits like a glove.  I love the construction of the Renee, it's incredibly supportive in the bust.  Because the straps cross in the back, you can wear this dress braless in complete confidence.  In typical PUG fashion, this dress has the most perfect full skirt and huge hidden side pockets.  I can see myself wearing this one over and over!  I had this orange tiki print in the Netti dress (a much older style) and I prefer the Renee so much more.  It's the perfect dress for me!

I'm officially back from my trip and I totally had that "vacation hangover" feeling.  I hadn't quite adjusted to being home and felt like I needed a full day of rest to get back to my usual routine.  Thankfully, I had Sunday off and I did exactly that: nothing.  I have quite a week ahead of me so a full day of watching tv in my pajamas was in order.  There's nothing like comfy clothes and a comfy couch to get you prepped for the week!

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, August 12, 2016

What's On My Radar: Current Loves

Can I just live in a forever state of summer?  I've been super inspired by bright, summery, and kitschy prints this month so I guess it's no surprise that my picks reflect that!  Check out all the vivid cuteness on my wishlist below:

Pinup Girl Clothing Tiki Collection
  1. Harley Top in 60's Tiki Print
  2. Jenny Dress in Purple Orchid Print
  3. Harley Top in Yellow Tiki Print
  4. Doris Skirt in Hawaiian Floral Print
  5. Peasant Top in Mint Tiki
I'm so happy that Pinup Girl Clothing released another tiki capsule collection!  I love all the fun new prints in their classic styles.  It's the perfect way to feel festive yet comfortable.  I may or may not have a few of these in my closet already, haha!


Femme De Bloom
  1. "Scales n' Seastar" Earring Set
  2. "BB8" Inspired Fabric Button Earrings
  3. Minnie Mouse Inspired Donut Necklace or Keychain
  4. "Lemon Cutie" Yellow Lemon Slice Earrings
  5. Pink and Silver Lightsaber Necklace with Silver Chain
As always, Melanie is killing it with all the handmade goodies in her shop!  Not only are her designs adorable, they're quite affordable too.  I'll pretty much purchase anything she makes with BB8 on it!


Hearts and Found
  1. Lola Skirt “Summer Rose” in a Rosy Floral Border Print
  2. Lola Skirt “Hawaiian Holiday” in a Blue Hawaiian Tiki Polynesian Print
  3. Bardot Top Crop Top with Pom Pom Trim - “Russian Blue” in a Folk Floral Print
  4. Lola Skirt "Enchanted Desert" in a Linen Saguaro Cactus Novelty Print
  5. Lola Skirt “Oh Sailor” in a Nautical Sailboat Novelty Border Print
As you probably already know, Hearts and Found is a fast favorite with me.  I love her new Bardot crop top (one is already on its way to me) and all the fun prints her Lola skirt comes in.  See something you like but not in the right style or print?  She does custom work!


Colorful Poster
  1. Rapunzel Watercolor Poster
  2. Gloria the Hippo Watercolor Poster
  3. Peter Pan and Wendy Watercolor Poster
  4. Elena of Avalor Watercolor Poster
  5. Dumbo The Flying Elephant Watercolor Print
I'm always on the hunt for fun artwork for Bianca's room.  Colorful Poster has everything you could possibly dream of, especially if you love Disney!  I've chosen a few of my favorites here, but my love list for this shop is about a mile long.  Too much cute stuff!


Emily and Fin
  1. Flora Dress in Blue Blossoming Poppies
  2. Frankie Dress in Green Cornish Harbour
  3. Isobel Dress in Navy Cruising British Boats
  4. Isobel Dress in Blue By The Seaside Print
  5. Jenny Dress in Red Synchronized Swimmers
Anyone else crazy about Emily and Fin?  I love their beautiful and bright summer prints.  The fit of their dresses (my favorite is the Jenny) are lovely as well.  Some of these styles are currently on sale at Unique Vintage too


What's on your wish list this month?  Let me know in the comments below!

xoxo

Ashley

Wednesday, August 10, 2016

Daffodil

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Beauty Mark Print Restricted Shoes Daffodil Heel in Black

There's nothing like a cute outfit to cure a stressful day.  I'm currently on vacation (woohoo!) but I was in the midst of pre-vacation anxiety when I took these photos.  I like to pack waaaay ahead of time but hadn't done it yet and still had to tie other loose ends at home.  Basically, I was a mess!  So I zipped up this Bernie Dexter beauty and strapped on these Restricted Daffodil heels and instantly felt like a new woman.  I may have felt like a hot mess on the inside, but catching my reflection in this outfit relieved my irrational stress.  Next time I'm feeling stressed or anxious, I'm just going to run to my closet for a remedy!

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Beauty Mark Print Restricted Shoes Daffodil Heel in Black

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Beauty Mark Print Restricted Shoes Daffodil Heel in Black

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Beauty Mark Print Restricted Shoes Daffodil Heel in Black

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Beauty Mark Print Restricted Shoes Daffodil Heel in Black

Bernie Dexter Paris Dress in Beauty Mark Print Restricted Shoes Daffodil Heel in Black

Dress- Bernie Dexter
Shoes- c/o Restricted Shoes
Petticoat- Malco Modes
Belt- From another dress

I can't say enough wonderful things about these Daffodil shoes from Restricted.  They're cute, I can wear them all day without them hurting my feet, and the low, wide heel is ideal for a vintage inspired look.  The scalloped detail is incredibly feminine but subtle at the same time.  I love that they come in three different colors, so you can pretty much match them to any outfit.  I'm definitely eyeing the whiskey colored ones, they're the perfect neutral shoe!  Want to grab a pair of your own?  Get 25% off any of Restricted Shoes regular priced styles with my coupon code SOCALBELLE25!

xoxo

Ashley

Monday, August 8, 2016

Pearl Harbor

Trashy Diva Sandy Dress in Pearl Harbor Print

Another day, another unicorn caught.  I've been searching for almost anything in this Trashy Diva print for what seems like forever.  But like I've come to realize, you eventually get your chance to add these elusive pieces to your closet.  I jumped on the opportunity to own this pre-loved Sandy dress and I can't believe how gorgeous it is in person!  It's such a perfect fit and the colors in this Pearl Harbor print are almost hypnotizing.  I have a feeling this beauty will be heavily rotated in my closet!

Trashy Diva Sandy Dress in Pearl Harbor Print

Trashy Diva Sandy Dress in Pearl Harbor Print

Trashy Diva Sandy Dress in Pearl Harbor Print

Trashy Diva Sandy Dress in Pearl Harbor Print

Trashy Diva Sandy Dress in Pearl Harbor Print

Dress- Trashy Diva (no longer available)
Shoes- Modcloth
Lipstick- c/o Anastasia Beverly Hills Liquid Lipstick in Candy Apple

Tomorrow I get to do something I haven't done in almost four years: go on a real vacation!  Kevin finally decided to detach himself from the office for a few days and I literally cannot wait.  It will be Bianca's first real vacation and I'm looking forward to creating lots of fun memories with her as a family.  I'll still have posts going up this week, but I will be away from the computer until I get back.  Make sure to follow me on Instagram to see what we'll be up to!

xoxo

Ashley

Friday, August 5, 2016

Penelope

Hearts and Found Penelope Dress "Ring a Ring o' Roses" Large Floral Roses in Pink

It's been a hot minute since I've featured another gorgeous dress from Hearts and Found and I couldn't wait to show off this beauty!  I have a very girly side, so anything with a feminine silhouette, a pink hue, and an elegant floral print feels like it was made for me.  I guess it kind of was because Hearts and Found will make their dresses to your measurements... Without an extra fee!  So if you're crazy about a perfect fit like me, you'll definitely want to give this dress a go!

Hearts and Found Penelope Dress "Ring a Ring o' Roses" Large Floral Roses in Pink

Hearts and Found Penelope Dress "Ring a Ring o' Roses" Large Floral Roses in Pink

Hearts and Found Penelope Dress "Ring a Ring o' Roses" Large Floral Roses in Pink

Hearts and Found Penelope Dress "Ring a Ring o' Roses" Large Floral Roses in Pink

Hearts and Found Penelope Dress "Ring a Ring o' Roses" Large Floral Roses in Pink

Dress- c/o Hearts and Found
Shoes- Charlotte Russe
Underskirt- Pinup Girl Clothing

My favorite feature would definitely have to be the deep scoop back.  I love dresses with those subtle hints of sexiness and this Penelope dress perfectly embodies my style.  It's ideal for an everyday look at the office, out running errands, or even date night.  The adjustable straps give you extra confidence for that perfect fit and the full skirt complete with pockets is just the icing on the cake.  If you haven't noticed already, I love this dress!

Tonight just happens to be date night and I'm really excited to be out and alone with my husband.  Since our house is currently full and Bianca is very much attached to my hip, it's hard to get a few minutes alone with Kevin.  We have no plans at the moment but it seriously does not matter.  Child free time is incredibly precious (and equally rare) in this house!  Hope you have a fabulous and stress free weekend!

xoxo

Ashley
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