shades of yellow

Since being in Florida, mine and Erik's lives have been constantly challenged - from changing our everyday routine (every month because of school) to clothes that we wear because it's SO HOT. The friends that I've made here have inspired me tremendously through their outfits and the way they encourage me to try new styles. Even though I absolutely love the color, the length, the pleats, just everything about it, I've only worn this skirt once since I bought it! I've always struggled with styling it so I left it up to Melissa (my beautiful photographer friend) and Alli (my sweet, insanely gorgeous, pregnant, California-native friend) to make this outfit happen. Alli brought this shirt from her closet, it was one that her friend had gotten her at a garage sale in San Diego! Melissa swooned as soon as she saw it so we put this outfit together and went out to the Maitland Art Center to shoot these incredible photos.

This headband is from an online boutique called Heirbloom. I met Ahndea through our church in Rockford and fell in love with her stuff - especially this headband! I love that for almost any outfit this headband is all you'll need. It's amazing because of its simplicity yet it still makes a bold statement.

What I Wore 

Headband | Heirbloom

Top | Alli's Closet

Skirt | Old Forever 21 - Similar Here!

Shoes | Nordstrom Rack

Who is inspiring you this summer? Whether it be fashion, art, photography, music, blogs - we would love to hear what is motivating you this season!

all photos by Melissa Audrey Dahlman - check out more of her work on Tiny Bones. I'm thankful for her, her talent, her friendship, and her zucchini muffin baking skills. 

summer loving

1. rag & bone tee

This summer, I am all about wearing what I feel comfortable in and choosing things that I really love. Insert this tee. I love how freeing it looks and of course, the color.

2. o.p.i "Suzi Skis in the Pyrenees"

This is my favorite nail polish of all time - s e r i o u s l y. It is the perfect mesh of black and gray so it doesn't look too dark for summer. And, of course, o.p.i is my go-to for affordable, durable nail polish.  

3. levi's jean vest
Erik has changed my life in a lot of ways. He made me a wife AND a lover of vests. I am obsessed with vests and strongly believe they can make any outfit better. I love the detail of the zipper in this one! A nice alternative to the classic denim vest. Well done, Levi's.
4. modcloth "Rule of Thirds" necklace
What is there to say about this killer? I'm usually a simplistic necklace wearer but Sara has shown me that us little gals can wear statement jewelry just as well as the rest of them! I think it would make this shirt more than just a black tee and take this outfit to the next level while still being versatile.
5. top shop "Folk Stud" skirt
This skirt is a beauty - a little pricey, but I think it might be worth it. The pattern makes me so excited and it's a great spring-summer-fall transition skirt. What else could you want from a piece of clothing?
6. baggu clutch
We got this lovely lady in the storefront at Rifle today and my heart fell for her in an instant. I've been sticking with darker, more neutral colors lately but maybe, just maybe, it's time for another pop of color in my life. I love her.
7. mia "Lila" sandals
My most recent purchase and absolute favorite so far for the summer. They go so well with pants, leggings, dresses, AND skirts. They are perfect! I got them at Nordstrom Rack. Thankfully, we have one close by and it's the greatest thing! Discounted Free People? Okay! Cheap shoes? Absolutely.
I've saved so much money since I started shopping here - go check out their online store now or visit one close to you!

What are some things that you guys are loving for this summer?

V