Hats - you either love 'em or you hate 'em

Before I get into the topic of this post, I wanted to let everyone know that I made it to Memphis safely!  So far I love the apartment and the area that I am in.  I will be only 10 minutes away from work and there is a McAlister's across the street!  Now back to the post...

Some people are hat people.  My mom claims that I look great in hats and that she can't pull them off.  I tell her it's because I have a very large head and therefore more to work with!  Either way, when you invest in a hat you have to be a little more critical than some other apparel purchases simply because you have to consider how much use you will get out of it.  For example, I am always purchasing hats to wear in the winter time, and then I never wear them because I don't want my hair to be flat that day or I just forget.  Even though I got a great deal on the hat it ends up being thrown into the donation pile the next winter.  Therefore I wasn't critical enough when I purchased it.

However, there are some occasions when a hat is more than worthwhile.  I have to have a hat for the beach.  My forehead ALWAYS burns and wearing a cute hat is the only way to prevent it in style.  I'm so glad that the trucker hat trend is over because I had a hard time pulling that off.  Fortunately, hats with a floppy structure and an airy fabric are the big trend right now - making them perfect for those summer months.

Now when I say large floppy hats I'm not telling you that I think you should get a hat that's fit for the derby.  I mean, if you're going to the derby I certainly encourage you to buy a hat that is derby and summer appropriate.  However, the best approach in looking for these great hats is to find one that can be worn on many occasions that you love!  With hats, if you don't see yourself in it on more than one occasion, you probably shouldn't buy it.

One of my favorites is this Eric Javits hat.  His hats always have the best structure but are a little pricy.  If you choose a style like the one below, you can wear it for years to come.

Eric Javits Squishee Swinger Hat - $350

On a budget?  I also love this alternative from Target.  For only $12.99 it doesn't break the bank and you don't have to feel bad if you only wear it on a beach trip or to a summer outing.  

Merona Wide Brim Floppy Hat, $12.99

And who could forget the easiness of the fedora and trilby styles?  For several years these looks have emerged as a trendy way to dress up any outfit or beach attire.  It's a look that you will get lots of use out of if you opt for the right style.   This Burberry look does just that - it has a classic, fitted structure that you can pair with a white top and jeans, or your favorite swimsuit.  

Burberry Woven Trilby, $250

And for the savvy girl who wants to create the same image for a fraction of the price, there are these great options from...you guessed it, Target!  

Merona Floral Band Straw Fedora, $12.99

Mossimo Black Straw Fedora, $12.99

So there you have it - whether your hat is extravagant or simplistic...you've got to work it right!  It's all about the attitude!  

XOXO, Allison

The Perfect Beach Bag - a MUST HAVE summer accessory

Okay, so I have turned into my mother.  I don't even have children, but no matter where I am going I feel like I have to take items for every possible circumstance.  What happens if my monthly visitor comes early, what happens if I have a headache, what happens if I get hungry - I think you get the gist.  Right?

Well, I'm even worse when it comes to the beach or laying by the pool.  I want to make as few trips as possible either back to my house or back to a condo - so I need size without looking dumpy.  With technology these days, you have to have room for your smart phone, your ipod, your reading material, your beach towel, and sun protection - and those are just the necessities!

Fortunately, beach bags are making a come back, and there are some brands that might surprise you that have come out with affordable and fashionable pieces that will amp up your summer style and still be super functional.

One brand that really shocked me was Vera Bradley.  Now I'm not going to sit here and diss the brand because I do like their luggage!  However, I'm more of a classic, leather girl and some of the patterns are just a little loud for me.  Some people can pull them off great...I'm not one of them!  However, I am in love with their new Dockside canvas.  This classic collection offers simple silhouettes in neutral or bright shades, depending on your personal taste.  I am in love with this large tote - especially in the Sand shade. And for $68 it's an affordable price and a style you will get lots of use out of!

Large Tote, $68

Or...you could jump on the monogram bandwagon and go for a simple canvas bag and accentuate with your favorite color and initials.  It is available in open top, zip top, and several sizes.  Accessories are also available for the lady who craves compartmentalization.  

Natural Open Canvas, $22.50-$35.50, Zip Canvas (not shown) $29.50-$42.50

And, there are also options for the woman who needs a bag that can do everything in one. I love this Lands End canvas look that goes from the office to the beach.  The structure makes it instantly fashionable and the stripe gives it a little something extra compared to other totes.  And for $34.50, it's in most everyone's price range!  

Land's End Ragtop Stripe, $34.50

And for the girl who has everything (and a little more money to spend) here are a few higher end options that are just as versatile - with a little something extra up their sleeves!  

Kate Spade Small Coal Chain Strap Bow Straw Tote, $345 

Marc by Marc Jacobs Bianca Dreams of Monte Carlo Straw Tote

Tory Burch Small Crescent Straw Tote, $350

It's hard not to look effortlessly fashionable with these totes on your arm as you catch a few rays.  So make your life easy and pick up a tote - you'll have more tricks in your bag and look fabulous at the same time!  

XOXO, Allison 

Wedges, Platforms, and Espadrilles - Oh my!

Those sunny spring days are just around the corner, but before you head to your closet and pull out those flip flops why not head to the mall and get something with a little more edge...and a lot more height!

I've always been a wedge girl, because I love the illusion of being taller (I'm a measly 5'4" on a good day) and still being comfortable.  I can wear wedges all day long and not suffer the consequences from those mile high heels.  That's why when I was searching through all of the spring trends and realized that the wedge was the shoe of the season, I was beyond excited.

Wedges this season are not just your standard rope bottom with cotton details - there's definitely a 70s edge.  Wooden platforms have emerged with more geometry than normal.  Check out this Diane Von Furstenberg Opal Leather Wedge Heel.  I love the dimensioning on the heel and the ankle strap makes it's so slimming! Wear them with a summer dress, shorts, or even jeans.  These shoes are so versatile, which means you'll be getting more use out of them then your standard heels!

DVF Opal Wedge Heels, $295

Not too fond of the ivory color or the canvas?  No problem - this heel is available in leather and in black, beige, or dark brown.  Maybe you'll like it so much that you can buy more than one!  

Now for some of us, we may not want to invest $295 in a wedge.  So that's why I love brands like Steve Madden who offer a great looking alternative for a third of the price!  

Steve Madden Riddgge Sandal, $99.95

Here are some of my other favorites in a wide variety of price ranges from some of my favorite shoe brands: 

Stuart Weitzman Alex Espadrille, $365

Tory Burch Elastic Wedge Espadrille, $175

DV by Dolce Vita Toni Espadrille, $79

So seriously, get that pedicure, make plans for a night on the town and show off your espadrilles.  You'll look tall, gorgeous, super fashionable...and be comfortable!  Plus, all of the girls in their sky high heels will be envious of the fact that you look amazing and won't be limping to your car at the end of the night!  No one wants to be the girl without her shoes on in the club - and we've all been there!  Now look effortless and chic without the pain!

XOXO,

Allison