Get Out! Alfresco Dining With Style

(Via My Design Chic)

Memorial Day is quickly approaching.  Do you have a party planned? I believe in doing everything with style, even the most casual parties can be chic. All you need are the right accessories, great food, good friends and family!  So, what are you waiting for? Get out..... 

Here: Inspiration For Alfresco Style

Riviera Bar Console
Trade your cooler in for this chic hand bent rattan , teak and galvanized metal bin bar. I think it is just gorgeous.  When not serving drinks, use it as a pretty planter!
Serena and Lily

Small Space Outdoor Dining Solutions
Party of 2? No problem. Add a pop of color to the patio with these fabulous chairs and foldable table. Made for contract use, so they can take the wear and tear of weather and frequent guests.  Now offered on sale at
DWR

Set of Two Rattan Rope Trays
A perfect match to the bar console above.  Love these trays for so many uses. Lunch by the pool, flatware in one, napkins in another. Use your imagination - there is no limit to their stylish uses!
Serena and Lily

Govino Wine Glasses
Reusable and recyclable, these classes add panache to any party.
Swoozies

Designer's Guild Table Linens
In living color.  And why wouldn't you want your outdoor tabletop any less stylish than your indoor table? These 100% linen napkins and placemats come in a variety of vivid colors.
Designer's Guild

Alfresco Party Essentials
It just doesn't get any more fresco fabulous than this chic collection of melamine dinnerware, paper napkins and acrylic serverware at
C. Wonder

Hanna Eucalyptus-Wood Serving Cart
For poolside or patio service. This gorgeous wooden cart has a surprisingly affordable price tag.
Overstock

Boatman Geller Personalized Trays
The quintessential hostess tray. Makes a wonderful gift.
Zhush

Wine Infused Cedar Grilling Plank Set
Cheers to a good idea! This set elevates your grill game and flavors your food with smoky notes of cedar wood and wine. A great hostess gift and perfect for any outdoor chef.
Uncommon Goods

Weber Genesis E-330 Black Gas Grill 
You can hardly have an alfresco party without a grill!  ABT has so many choices. I thought this to be a good mid price selection. The best part is that they offer free shipping! Now that is a savings.
ABT

Perfect Settings For a Summer Party
Find the flip flop platters, umbrella dinner plates and more in the "Oh Cabana Boy" section at
Swoozies

Beverage Jars At Sur La Table
There's a new trend towards beverage jars for outdoor use.  It makes so much sense, and  they really look quite attractive.  See a selection in acrylic or glass, and serve up some style at
Sur La Table


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Wedding Wednesday: What To Wear To A Summer Soiree

(Via Izak Zenou)

June starts the "official" Wedding Season. The June brides are mailing their invitations as I type, and I have already received a beautiful one.  My first thought, besides feeling honored to be invited, was "What will I wear?" If you have been to a wedding lately, you know that any optional dress code is interpreted very loosely. I have been shocked to see women in cotton church dresses or men without ties.  Today, I hope to inspire you to gussy up a bit in something wedding worthy.

The Garden Party Daytime Reception

Kate Spade 
Though this dress is satin, I think it is still perfect for a garden party. Style it as shown to make it a touch less dressy. The pink really pops when paired with black accessories. The clutch is Kate's Wedding Belles Book Clutch and can be found at Zappos. Love it!
Neiman Marcus

Ted Baker Nude Oil Painting
Floral Dress
Wonderful details like inverted pleats and a notched collar make this feminine frock fabulous for an afternoon affair.
Nordstrom's or Cusp

Oscar de La Renta Appliqued
Tulle Midi Skirt
If you want to be best dressed, this skirt is for you!
Moda Operandi

Floral Strapless Dress
This number is garden party perfect!
Lord and Taylor

Coupon Code: MAY takes 15% off

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Evening Reception 

Tadashi Shoji
V-Neck Tulle Trim Dress
With a touch of whimsy, this dress shows that you acknowledge the special event. Consider it in Navy, but also available in black. Under $200. 
Nordstrom

Virgos Lounge Embellished Midi 
With Cowl Back
A fabulous dress for those (like me) that like to wear a sleeve. See this sexy and sophisticated number on the catwalk at
ASOS

Cedric Charlier Sleeveless Dress
Another navy choice that is blended with black and cream for a sophisticated look.  See how good you will look moving on the dance floor in a quick video at
Shop Bop

Moschino
Asymmetrical Jumpsuit
A jumpsuit is perfectly fine for a fun wedding reception.  This one in shiny satin is so pretty in pink!
Shop Bop


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Black Tie Reception

Tadashi Shoji Embroidered Gown
Love this sleek and feminine dress in a delicious dove grey. It is simple yet very fresh looking for Spring and Summer. Imagine it in candlelight.
Nordstrom's

Herve Leger Off The Shoulder Dress
Simple but stunning! Pair this body conscious dress with fabulous earrings and a terrific shoe (better than what is shown)
Bergdorf Goodman

Kimono Dress 

With Floral Sequin Trim

This dress looks great coming and even better going.  At under $125 it is a real buy.  You have to see it on the runway in action!

ASOS

Lace 3/4 Sleeve Dress By MSGM
Embrace lace and be on trend in this gorgeous chocolate brown and coral dress. The 3/4 length sleeves and low v back are lovely details
Shop Les Nouvelles

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Love Is In The Air

Sun Kissed Beauty

(Via Ooh la Frou Frou)

We all know the dangers of the sun. I wish that I knew more about those powerful UV rays when I was younger.  But two of Summer's best selling points is the warmth of sunshine and that sun kissed look it gives us. Thank goodness, we can get the look without harming our skin, by using sun protection and a little "fake baking." This season's cosmetics are really better than the real thing! What's your sun secret?

Here: How To Get The Sun Kissed Look

Guerlain Terra Tropica Terracotta 

Bronzing Powder (Limited Edition)

I have long thought that Guerlain makes one of the best bronzing powders there is.  The pigments in the powders are so dense, these compacts last forever.  I have had one for 2 years.  This is their latest creation and I think it is just beautiful. Talk about sun kissed!
Nordstrom's

Kate Somerville 360 Body
Tanning Towelettes
I trust ANYTHING that skincare guru to the stars, Kate Somerville, creates.  Her self tanning towels seem like an easy solution for a golden glow.
Kate Somerville

SEPHORA COLLECTION
Gradual Self-Tanning Face Water
I haven't had the chance to try this product yet, as it is new and exclusive to Sephora.  Easy to apply with cotton and dries instantly for a natural finish. Just apply daily until the natural desired shade is reached.  It is also less expensive than most self tanners, so you might give it a try at less than $20
Sephora

Nars Body Glow
A unique blend of Monoi de Tahiti oil combined with a rich chocolate shimmer.  This stuff really glows! It absorbs well into the skin.  I have a bottle now at home, from last season, and I can't wait to use it again.
Barney's New York

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
Time to lighten up during the warmer months. Laura's moisturizer offers some coverage, and you may find you don't need foundation with it. I personally like to blend it with my own foundation, which enables me to use less of both. This is absolutely the very best tinted moisturizer, I have used.  Available in an Oil Free, with Oil formulation, and Illuminating, which is what I use.
Nordstrom's

P.S. Mr. Shop This, may or may not use this product.

Bonjour Soleil Bronzing Wardrobe
Say bonjour to a gorgeous, golden tan with this collection of bronzing best-sellers including Chocolate Soleil, Sun Bunny and Snow Bunny. Use it on face, eyes, and to contour the cheekbones.
Too Faced Cosmetics

Lancome FLASH BRONZER Tinted Self-Tanning Leg Gel
Get immediate results from this self tanner by beauty icon, Lancome.  What attracts me to this product is the stain resistant formula that will keep the gel from rubbing off on your clothing.
Sephora

Hourglass Superficial Waterproof Bronzer
Never let them see you sweat or your bronzer run! This powder infuses the complexion with a radiant bronze glow. Genius!
Barney's New York

Tom Ford Spring Nail Lacquer
Simply one of the prettiest nail colors I have seen in years. The shade is called "incandescent." His nail lacquer features an extra-amplified, glossy, shining formula with a bendable coating so your manicure lasts while retaining its fabulousness. Don't hate me because of the price. Pedicure perfect!
Nordstrom

bareMinerals Beautifully Bronzed Deluxe Faux
Tan with Brush
Unquestionably, the best faux tan product I have ever used.  It is very natural and gradual.  The key to its' success is the brush!  Your hands never touch the tanning gel. The super sized bottle and brush set is only available at 
QVC

Bobbi Brown Modern Glow
 Eye Palette and Lip Set
Bobbi got this set right.  Such pretty sun kissed colors.  The lipstick shade is perfection! Now on Sale at
QVC

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The Sweetener:

Beauty.com Friends and Family Sale! 20% Off Your Entire Purchase!

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Hello Spring! Let The Sunshine In

Spring And Summer Shoe Edit

(Via Sunny Gu)

Today's post is inspired by Mother's Day. We girls have the "big shoes" of our own Moms that we must fill.  I hope that you all had a lovely day whatever you did. But now that the weather has warmed up for most of us, it is time to put the boots away (unless they are open toe booties) get a pedicure and a pretty pair of  new Spring shoes.

HERE:  12 Stylish Shoes For 
All Budgets

Visconti And Du Reau Suede Fringe Thong Sandal.
Texture and movement are always good things! 
Barney's New York

Prada Pointy Toe Pump
Florals are everywhere this Spring, and I don't love all of them. But this one is fresh and new without being overdone.
Nordstrom's

SWEAR Louise 1 Perforated Neo Flats
Retro chic - the reworked brogue. This London based footwear brand is one part defiant and one part refined. Looks comfy!
ASOS

SOPHIA WEBSTER
COLORBLOCKED VIOLETA SANDALS
If you like a "jelly" shoe, this is a good one. Very pretty in pastel colors.
SSENSE

 Vince Camuto Fontanela Sandal
Love the color of this caged open toe bootie. Also available in black or gold. This is one of the season's newest looks. 
Amazon

B Brian Atwood
Elisa Strappy Sandals
Oh if I could, I would...wear these! The perfect pop of color to your Summer LBD.
Shopbop

Nine West Yacht Slide
Such an easy shoe to slip on and go!  The kitten heel is perfect for navigating the streets. Also available in blue and black. Love this nude!
Nine West

30% will be deducted at checkout.  Great price!

Missoni Crochet Wave T-Strap Wedge
Now 50% off and just fabulous in an iconic Missoni print.
Zappos Couture

Sawyer D'orsay Sandal By 
Loeffler Randall
These shoes have personality.  The raffia is just fun!
Shop Les Nouvelles

Sarah Jessica Parker Leslie Espadrille
Hello lover! SJP made a splash last month with her shoe debut at Nordstrom's.  I wasn't totally gaga over the collection, but there were some pretty pieces. My fave are these cute espadrilles. Love the color and also available in mint.  Exclusive to
Nordstrom's

JENNI KAYNE

Leather Flats 

Metallic is huge for Spring and Summer. It just becomes a shiny neutral. That golden touch certainly elevates a white flat.

Forward By Elyse Walker

Goshdarn Open Toe Sandals
I can't get by in the warmer months without a shiny black sandal. It becomes my "go to" shoe. Love the metal chain detail. Click to see a great zipper in back, too.
Nine West

30% will be taken off at checkout for a limited time.





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Springs' Slip On Sneakers