I visited the Chicago Botanic Gardens last week and fell in love with this pink and purple fuschia! The contrasting outer layer creates a bold surprise when the flower opens and is the perfect inspiration for fashionable layering. This color combination is fun, bright, and sure to put a smile on your face when you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror.

A great piece of jewelry can put a smile on your face, a spring in your step, and pump up your outfit a notch or two. So when I heard about a project about beloved jewelry pieces by Invaluable, an online auction marketplace with a huge selection of jewelry,  I knew I wanted to share the necklace that gives me the ultimate confidence boost anytime I put it on.

This incredible piece is made of painted wood and metal and was given to me by my mother on my 18th birthday. She had picked it up more than a decade earlier at a craft fair from a vendor selling handmade jewelry from Ghana. Since it is a statement piece, it is often commented on and I love being able to share what I know about its origins. With vintage or unusual jewelry, just knowing that the piece has its own history (even if you don't know the specifics) can make it feel that much more interesting. Plus, idle speculation about a piece's past or the creator's inspiration can make for fantastic cocktail party conversation!

Why is this piece such a confidence booster for me? First of all, in order for the necklace to lie flat, I have to stand up straight, keep my shoulders back, and generally exercise impeccable posture. That adjustment immediately gives me a stronger presence. Second, this is not a piece that blends into the background. It is unapologetically bold and the materials evoke a sense of strength. Lastly, it inspires me to put extra effort into my outfit so that it is being shown off against an appropriate canvas which means that my general look is also elevated. 

When a piece of jewelry looks good and makes you feel great, then you know that you have a piece that deserves a special spot in your jewelry box! What's the story behind your favorite piece of jewelry? Share in the comments!

Today we are headed to the archives for summer style advice that still rings true. First we are going all the way back to 2013, when this blog was barely six months old! I admitted that summer is my least favorite season and shared suggestions for looking polished, while still staying cool. 

We have only had a couple really warm days here in Chicago, so I am still sorting through last year's summer pieces to remember what I have. Of course, sometimes an old favorite can lose some of its wow factor during the colder months. Emily had that problem, so I switched up the accessories to give new life to a beloved dress. 

For the days that you don't want to wear shorts, a great pair of cropped pants are a great compromise. However, shopping for them (and styling them!) isn't always easy. These three tips will help you make your cropped pants work to their full potential!

Moving forward in time to 2014, I have outfit inspiration that is full of bright colors and fun patterns. These springtime outfits transition wonderfully into summer and feature accessories that you'll want to wear all year round. 

Warm weather means patio season and you will need a stylish outfit to go with your deliciously cold drink. Check out these looks for brunch, dinner, and happy hour!

It is also the season of the maxi dress. If you haven't discovered the effortless style of this summer staple, then I implore you to take yourself shopping and try a few on! Once you find one you love, check out these three ways to style a maxi dress.

Now that you have your outfits for the next couple months figured out, head over to bread and flowers for my brand-new book recommendations that are perfect to bring to the beach (or to a bar). 

Need last minute food, drink, and outfit inspiration for the holiday weekend? Here's a link roundup of every 4th of July post:

from top left, clockwise: seersucker shorts / apple pie cocktail / red, white, & blue trifle / maxi dress / patterned skirts & chambray shirts / homemade freeze pops / orzo salad / nautical stripes

The holiday weekend has begun! Hopefully all of you have the day off and are reading this from a comfortable chair with a cool drink in your hand. Today's outfit inspiration gives you an option if the temperatures drop. A striped moto jacket makes a big statement while keeping the cool air off your arms. Pair it with cropped denim, a red tee, and comfortable sandals for a layered look in a patriotic color palette.

Like this look? Here are similar pieces you can buy now: nautical stripes / red tank / cropped denim / necklace / birkenstocks