Flower Child

Hi loves! I missed you all so much! It's hard to believe it has been over a month since I typed up a new blogpost! My life is a lot different now than it was a month ago, however, because my classes are over and it is officially "summer" for me. It seems like I blinked and Junior year is done...though the last few months of online classes definitely dragged. As I'm sure you all agree, 2020 also seems like a bit of a blur in that it has basically been the same old ~stuff~ but a different day. I know it is easy to become discouraged and unmotivated by the current situation, so let the power of a good outfit add some positivity to your days. Staying in doesn't have to mean boring clothes because life is too short for that! I've always been a strong believer in the forces of fashion, and now more than ever, I see how throwing on a cute ensemble and doing my makeup makes me feel more put together, more confident, and more "normal." Getting ready has been a large part of my daily routine (why I used to have to wake up 2 hours before class!) and I find that I took my morning rituals for granted. Now that the semester is over, I want to take more time for self-care and blogging, of course. Practice putting your mental health first by throwing on a pastel cardigan, bustier, denim shorts, and fun accessories for an adorable look that is great for photoshoots, flower picking, and even a Zoom call! These pieces are ready for a spring fling, and now that the weather is warming up, we can finally enjoy all that the season has to offer, a.k.a all kinds of greenery! So weather your cabin fever is fierce or mild, keep on reading for styling tips of a flower child!

There are so many pretty elements of this look, it's hard to pick what to talk about first! I'll start with these denim shorts because daisy dukes are a summer wardrobe staple. My shorts aren't quite as tight as the infamous shorties, but they are just as cute and super comfy. These "mom" shorts are categorized by their relaxed, high-waisted fit that pairs perfect with a hot day. Let's face it, heat and skin-tight clothes are not the ideal combination, so an easy-breezy short is the way to go! Their  medium wash contrasts with the little yellow embroidered flowers that are sprinkled on the denim. As you can guess, the real reason I purchased these is because I am a sucker for floral embroidery (or any embroidery) that adds a unique twist to a classic piece. The flowers are subtle, and actually a bit hard to see from afar, but they still make a statement. The fact that the flowers are dainty and not bold makes these shorts easy to style because they are still quite neutral. The minimalistic floral motif doesn't distract from the rest of the outfit, meaning you can throw on a graphic tee or an eyelet top and not have to worry about clashing (but consider a color palette that complements)! I also love the length of these shorts because my parents actually approve, so they aren't too short, but definitely not too long. Depending on how far you hike them up, they sit around your mid to upper thigh, so they are still young and fun!

Because it is still a little chilly, I thought a yellow pastel cardigan would be a light layering piece to fit the temperatures and give the look a little more color. Cardigans will forever be timeless, but I've noticed them becoming even more popular lately. Many retailers are putting a new spin on cardis with cropped styles, ribbed knits, funky buttons, and eye-catching colors. While some fashionistas are styling the "updated" versions, many are also sticking to the basics that have a very Cape Cod kind of vibe. Mine is simple, yet stylish with a traditional fit and a gorgeous shade of yellow. Pastels are also becoming more prominent, especially when it comes to cardigans, making this is a total on-trend piece for 2020. I admit that I used to steer clear of anything yellow due to my skin tone and hair color, but it such a happy hue that has really grown on me. I could always use a tan but for now I am just going to be pale in my pastels!

Under my cardigan is a brilliant bustier that can't go unnoticed. A little white top will be your best friend all summer long, and I highly recommend a feminine bustier. Just as it sounds, this top gives you a little extra boost as it flatters the body in all the right places! This fitted piece is also making a comeback in the midst of oversized garments because it accentuates the body and shows off what your momma gave you! Reminiscent of a corset, the bodice sits snug against you and often contains boning for support and to keep the shape. Derived from lingerie bustiers, this top is sexy, but can totally be worn outside the house (or in our case, in the house). The cropped style hits at at the waist, making your mid-section look smaller and giving you a great excuse to wear high-waisted shorts, pants, or skirts. Mine has whimsical eyelet detail that adds more flirty flair to this garment that can be worn anywhere! I chose this structured bustier because it offsets the more loose-fitting cardigan and shorts so you don't get lost in the clothes. However, you can always pair a tee, blouse, or bandeau with this outfit to fit your own personal style.

No outfit is complete without some equally chic accessories! Accessorizing is an important part of the styling process and adds the finishing touches to any look. You all know how I am instantly attracted to anything that is out-of-the-ordinary, so purchasing these daisy sunglasses was a no-brainer. Sunnies are seriously one of my favorite things to wear because they are fashionable and add a little bit of mystery (plus my eyes are super sensitive)! I have so many pairs and am not too picky about style, though an oversized pair is always a great choice. My motto is, "the bigger the sunnies, the smaller the features!" Round lenses are so fun and so 60's/70's, giving me all the John Lennon and Elton John vibes. I have more sunglasses than there is sun in Pennsylvania, but I'm always on the hunt for ones with a little extra pizazz like daisy rims! The white color is neutral, so you don't have to be decked out in daisies for them to match. In fact, these will look too cute with all kinds of summer ensembles like sundresses, rompers, and crop tops! 

I can't believe I saved the purse for last because I have a purse obsession (but then again, I have a fashion obsession in general, so...)! I've been keeping this baby a secret for about a year now, but she is finally making a debut! I bought this Kate Spade bag at the beach last summer, and it has been one of my most used purses during the warmer months. The natural, straw detailing caught my eye because it looked so fresh and sweet sitting there on the shelf. I don't know if it was the salty air, but I just knew I had to have this bag, especially since it matched my vacation outfits! I was looking for a straw/wicker bag last season, but had no luck finding anything high quality that I liked. Then, fate stepped in and I stumbled upon another Kate bag that, of course, does not disappoint. I love that the bag has a white leather trim that's actually braided for a romantic feel. The leather really makes it sturdy, but it still looks really delicate. This turned out to be a great vacation purse, not just because of the aesthetic, but because of the practicality. It can fit all that you need to survive, but it does make you choose wisely what you carry (a.k.a. no random 3 yr. old gum or pens that are out of ink). The fact that you can't fit everything is a blessing because it is bearable to carry around and doesn't induce any shoulder or wrist pain! By the way, there is a shoulder strap included, but it is removable so you can carry it whatever way you please. Here's to hoping I have another purse shopping success this summer! 

Blogging was starting to feel like a distant memory, but you all know that no matter how long I'm MIA, I always come back! I've definitely been having some fun during quarantine, but the majority of the time felt like one giant study session. It's crazy to think I missed going to class (even the early ones haha). Enough about lockdown, though, because I'm doing my best to make the most out of every moment. I try to remind myself, every day, that everything in life will fall into place—something my prof said early in the semester and it really resonated with me. I am trying to harvest more creativity and positivity, instead of anxious/worried thoughts. Trust me when I say that it is easier said than done, but to consciously decide to choose joy is good start. Joy can be reuniting with your friends or just going on a walk with the sun on your face. There are a lot of things we don't have control over right now, but our own happiness is something that no one can take away. What are the little things you do that make you happy? Let me know in the comments below! Listening to music in my backyard on a sunny day is something I love to do because it puts me in such a peaceful mindset! The nice weather is also a great reason to get in touch with your green thumb and do a little planting. I just got a flower and my mission is to keep it alive this summer! Hopefully my flower child fashion will help me be a better plant mom! Comb those closets for pretty pastels, breathtaking bustiers, daisy duke denim, super fun sunnies, and beautiful bags to have you feeling one with nature (or at least with the tree in your backyard)! If you're too busy, don't worry, be happy and shop my links below! Happy Closet Combing!

Links to same/similar pieces:

Sweater: https://rstyle.me/+GVieG-L6w_pRjfZrqouO9w

https://rstyle.me/+Jw5J4p2rf5SdqjO5FwGSMg

Bustier: (EXACT) https://www.dollskill.com/sugar-thrillz-floral-lace-bustier-top-boho-white.html?&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping-c&utm_term=&utm_content=376683625088&gclid=Cj0KCQjwzZj2BRDVARIsABs3l9JNLaJcdCcMxI0iGk6nKqdTpZKVsUHxInz4W384KfnTafYGK4ZKcCwaAp5HEALw_wcB

https://rstyle.me/+Pww1zgRMF9UBy2sE0byh5A

Shorts: https://rstyle.me/+5W9MuT2TjLGgSg2ALs0Qjw

Sunglasses (EXACT): https://rstyle.me/+2LevSvl4Xz-HPuuR-LCReQ

Purse (EXACT): https://rstyle.me/+O9H-UosuklhGi-oDH5pdiw