[a little summer sun]

I just turned in my last exam of the year, and I am looking forward to three months of beaches, bike rides, and bikinis!

Here's wishing everyone a happy summer! I've got some interesting summer DIYs and recipes in store!

[daily inspiration]

I'll admit, I can be inspired by pretty much anything; however, this
Givenchy Haute Couture from 2011 made me stop in my tracks. I have no
idea how I hadn't yet stumbled upon this, but I am so glad I did!

Hope you are all having a wonderful day!

[wednesday wishlist]

I've always been a pink girl, and with coral, salmon, and pink being hot trends for this summer I couldn't help but... think pink!

1) YSL Lipstick - No longer available. 

2) British Vintage Style Satchel - $135.

3) Ted Baker Clutch - $172.

4) H&M Skirt - $8. 

5) Jeffrey Campbell Heels - $159.

6) Christopher Kane Skirt - $1,079.

7) Madewell Midi Shorts - $59.

8) J Crew Skinny Jeans - $125.

9) Textured Skater Dress - $100.

Dive in to summer with some pink garments and accessories, and get into your best bikini body with these Nike tennis shoes! Bathing suit body... here I come!

[the perfect pumps]

Every girl absolutely needs a pair of black pumps. These staple pumps need to meet a specific list of requirements, which differs for each girl. How do you find the right pair of pumps? Do you love the LC Lauren Conrad's above (affordable) or Christian Louboutin's (pricey)? (Write your list!

Where do you need to be able to wear them? 

Some shoes are more appropriate for the office than a party.

How high do you want the heel to be?

While super high heels are in, they aren't always the most sensible shoes.

What is your price range? 

Black pumps can range anywhere from Payless to Proenza Schouler. With something you'll be wearing a lot, it might even be better to splurge rather than buy multiple pairs later down the line.

Open toe or closed toe?

Little details like this can change the overall vibe of the pumps; also, some workplaces don't allow open toe shoes.

Leather or suede?

Either leather or suede is perfectly suitable. Just beware: at some stores, the leather and suede can look very cheap.

Once you have your checklist, hit the mall! Having set guidelines will help keep you from going above your budget or impulse-shopping and buying something you don't really want or need! Shop the above shoes here: 

LC Lauren Conrad - $39 // Casadei - $750 // Guiseppe Zanotti - $635 // Steve Madden - $130 // Romantic Soles - $69 // Own the Runway - $30 // Dora - $150 // Christian Louboutin - $625 // Steve Madden - $90

[what to wear]

With the heat slowly rising, it's about time to get rid of the cover up and hop into the pool. Pool parties are a great way to kick off the summer, and you are bound to find yourself at one of these festivities. If you're like me, you won't want to actually get in the pool (I spend far too long on my makeup and hair to ruin it with chlorine, no thank you).

If you do plan on getting in the pool, don't wear something that is complicated to take on or off. You'll end up embarrassing yourself by getting tangled in a mass of fabric! Instead, opt for a cover up that is simple yet cute, and something you don't mind leaving on a lounge chair. Don't forget to wear your cutest swimsuit. While a speedo racing suit may be comfortable or useful, it is by no means what you should wear to a pool party. I would also wear sandals or flip flops if you plan on jumping in, slippery feet can make balancing in heels quite the challenge.

If you plan on socializing and snacking instead of swimming (like myself), feel free to wear the most complicated, puzzle-like item in your whole wardrobe. For a pool party, I love the idea of a wide-leg trouser. They look casual enough for a pool party but they still have that chic feel I can't resist. Also, if you don't plan on hopping in, wear heels if you please. Cork heels or espadrilles are the perfect balance of casual and cute for a pool party. A high-low dress like the one above is definitely on trend right now, and it's perfect for a pool party. Woven purses are super hot right now, and they have the perfect vibe for a summer fiesta! Also, you can throw on a head wrap or headband to give your outfit a little personal touch.

Now that you're ready for a summer pool party, don't forget your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen!

[let's get some shoes]

Today, I am celebrating the lovely weather and my elated mood with a list of the most outrageous, gorgeous, and expensive shoes I can find. 

Christian Louboutin Summerissima - $995 

Chloe Scalloped Flat - $450 

 

Rochas Peep Toe Clog Sandals - $945 

Walter Steiger Swirl Sandal - $1,075

Lanvin Belgian Loafer - $730

Lanvin Puzzle Wedge Pump - $1,490

Givenchy Geometric Cutout Sandal - $695

Marc by Marc Jacobs Three Strap Platform Sandal - $360

I am just in such an elated mood to day, and there's nothing like a good mood and a great collection of shoes. If only they weren't quite so expensive! A girl can dream....