Now and Later

Lately, I'm finding it difficult to know what to wear in the morning. I want to hang on to summer as long as possible but it's also exciting to think about fall fashion. It's still warm out yet there's a bit of coolness in the air. I've decided my key piece for this time of transition is dresses, especially frocks like these from Need Supply. For now, I'll pair easy dresses with sandals and wedges and later I'll swap in pumps and boots. It's the best of both worlds, no?

Photos from here. 

Weekend in the City

My husband and I spent a long weekend in Chicago, and it was an absolutely wonderful trip. We stayed in cool hotels, ate some fantastic meals, strolled through parks, went on an architectural cruise, checked out a blues club, shopped and did a lot of walking through the city. That's one of our favorite things to do -- explore a place by walking it. And it's a great way to see this city and feel the energy of all its incredible buildings. Even though we visit Chicago quite often, this trip left us with a deeper appreciation for -- and connection with -- the fascinating city. 

Photos by me and my husband.

Summer Moments

Today we're headed to Chicago for a long weekend. A visit to the city is on my summer musts list, and I'm truly looking forward to the getaway. There are a few activities on the list that I still want to do, but I've had a great time accomplishing many of them so far this summer.

My husband and I sipped drinks at a downtown rooftop bar.

I had a completely relaxing pool day at my parents' house.

And I took a bike ride on a pretty trail through woods and farmland.

Here's to making the most of all of summer's great moments!

Photos by me. 

Grace

I think I will make this my new mantra. Love it!

Photo from here via here.

Just Beachy

When it comes to interior design, I'm typically not drawn to beachy or shabby-chic style. I like things more streamlined and tailored. Yet I'm digging this Santa Barbara beach cottage featured on Apartment Therapy. It's so sunny and natural but also really feminine and cool. Have a peek:

Photos from here. 

Lake Effect

This weekend was all about lakeside lounging. On Saturday, my husband and I returned to a terrace we love. We were very conscious that there was nothing we needed to do and no place else we needed to be, so we nabbed a perch overlooking the water and enjoyed the sunshine that gradually gave way to stormy skies and a rainbow. It was a truly wonderful summer afternoon. And on Sunday, my mom's side of the family gathered at my aunt's lake house. We had four generations together -- from two babies up through my grandmother -- something that made the day even more of a joy. Ahh, summer weekends are the best!

Photos by me. 

Happy Weekend!

As the weekend approaches, my wishlist is pretty simple. I'd like to sleep and eat really well! Some other excitement might be in the works, but I'm making these two things my priority.

Here's hoping you have a wonderfully relaxing weekend too!

Photo from here via Pinterest.

True Blue

I love the color blue any time of year, but on a hot summer day, isn't it particularly refreshing? I'm smitten with these happy blue finds by Kate Spade.

Photos from here. 

Ring, Ring

I'm mesmerized by these delicate sparkly rings by Louisa Gallery. They all look so unique and special. I kind of want to slip one on every finger. Would that be too much?

Photos from here via here. 

On the Inside

When I lived in California, I'd wander around San Francisco dreaming about what it would be like to live in one of the city's Victorians. They looked so amazing on the outside that I wondered how great they'd be inside. If I'd somehow made my way into this Victorian featured in House Beautiful, I don't think I'd ever leave! I love the black and white with hits of color and a sense of playfulness. Here, have a peek:

Photos from here.  

Homebody

What a nice weekend this was. I went out to dinner with my sister and two of our old friends one night, and my husband and I spent an afternoon on a terrace by the lake. But mostly I spent the weekend at home, relaxing with the windows open, going for walks with my guy and our pup and enjoying the opportunity to not do much at all. Here are a few snapshots from around the house.

Photos by me.

Happy Weekend!

After a busy week that's pulled me in so many directions, I'm looking forward to the weekend. I'm hoping to do whatever I feel like -- whether that's getting out and about or simply floating through the next few days. I'm not sure which it will be yet, and that's sort of perfect.

Here's to following your bliss this weekend!

Photo from here via here on Pinterest.

Tempting

What do you say we all play hooky today and head to the beach?

Photo from here.

Screen Style

I'd happily go to Rome any time. But as summer winds down I'd especially like to steal away for a day. I'd wear a full skirt and crisp top and tool around town on a scooter, a la Roman Holiday.

* Blouse

* Skirt

* Belt

* Scarf

* Espadrilles 

* Vespa

Paris

This weekend my husband and I went on a perfect low-key date. We finally saw Midnight in Paris. What a neat movie! I liked the unconventional storyline, and all the images of Paris were stunning. A few minutes into the film, Will turned to me and whispered, "Well, I guess we need to go to Paris now." Yes, please! We've both visited the city but never together, so I hope it happens someday. In the meantime, I'll just gush over the beautiful photography by Irene Suchocki (find more of her work here, here and here).

Photo from here. 

Slowdown

I'm feeling a bit under the weather, so this weekend I'm hoping to take it easy. I'd like to sleep in and laze around. Maybe I'll start a new book or watch a few movies. Napping may also feature prominently in the plans.

I'd love to slow down in a place like this Nantucket home, featured in Elle Decor. It feels so soothing and restful, and I like how it has a beachy vibe that's also contemporary.

Have a great weekend!

Photos from here.