Celebrating the 4th in Style

Happy Independence Day (tomorrow)!

Isn't this a fun holiday? I love the colors, the food, the activities, and the drinks. It's all fun, and it's all patriotic. I also have to mention how important it is, while grilling, eating, and having a great time, that we remember the reason for this fun holiday. It is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from Great Britain. And as much as I love the royal family, I sure am grateful for that!

Guest Post: A Hopeful Hood

As I mentioned, while on vacation, I have some great posts lined up for you to read. Today's is from an awesome blogger, Julie. I have enjoyed getting to know her through her blog, and today's post is not different! Enjoy her tips (I know I have!).  

------------------------------------

hey, i'm julie and i blog over at a hopeful hood, which is--besides a play on my last name--a space where i talk about home renovations, teaching, crafts, and other random things. i love morgan's inspiring diy projects and her insights on life (like her tips for making the babysitter feel more at home! as someone who still babysits and loves to know the end time/where the pretzels are....). i'm so excited to chat with you all on this great blog!

as someone who works full time and doesn't have time (or the level of care) for an extensive beauty routine, i've rounded up some of my favorites.

5 hair essentials every low-maintenance girl needs:

i recently wrote a fancy updo post about how i recently did my hair for a wedding, but even that was really easy and low-effort. i'm always in a rush in the morning, and although i love having long hair, i don't have the level of effort to devote to burning it straight/frying it curly/actually doing anything (besides a braid, messy bun, etc.). this means i've had to collect a few things that makes my hair less crazy while still being low-maintenance!

//1// dry shampoo. i've been using this, but i can't wait til it runs out and i can try the cheaper (and supposedly better!) dove version. am i the only one who's hair looks fine the night before and then that morning is suddenly a bit greasy???

//2// extra hair ties in your bag for when your hair goes wild but you're already halfway to work.

//3// headbands for when the humidity kicks up flyaways. (please tell me philly isn't the only place that consistently has 90% humidity!)

//4//leave-in conditioner because you just didn't have time to condition in the shower (my favorites are mane & tail and the organix argon oil, pictured above).

//5// bobby pins that match your hair color so when the messy bun goes awry you can subtly fix it without having to to take it out and redo it....because that takes too much effort.

*bonus favorite*

waterless face wash! all you do is pour a little on a cotton pad and wipe gently over your face. this also works really well when camping and you don't have running water to wash your face! or when you're too lazy to walk all the way to the bathroom and want to "wash your face" in bed...jk, that's never happened.........

what are your favorite hair essentials? 

Guest Post: 2015 Summer Trends

While I am away on vacation, I have a few wonderful guest posts lined up for you! I hope you enjoy them. Today's post is written by my dear friend Casey (who you will recognize from a couple of other posts - my crazy birthday lunch and this amazing apple pie recipe).

Enjoy these tips!

-----------------------------------------

Get Trendy With It!  The weather is finally heating up, so it's time to hit the racks!  Here are some pieces that you should look out for as you enhance your summer wardrobe.  

Color: Aquamarine

The number one color of the summer is AQUAMARINE!  Who doesn't love aquamarine?  I really think this color looks great on every skin color and hair tone!

Source

Pattern: Gingham

Going on a picnic?  Well, maybe not, but this pattern is a must this summer - from dresses and bathing suits to shorts.

Source

Jumpsuits & Rompers

Jumpsuits and rompers, OH MY!  You can dress up or dress down. The only down-fall is going to the bathroom - full clothing removal (meh). Man oh man, are they cute though!

Source

Gladiator sandals

Lace up or zip up?  The strappier and taller, the better.

Source

High-Waisted Bathing Suit Bottoms

Lower belly pooch?  Worry no more!  

Source

Were you one of the lucky ones that snagged these Lilly bottoms at Target?  Too bad they are sold out now!

Source

Scallops

This lovely detail can make any ordinary dress extraordinary! It's simple, classic, and feminine.

Source

You will be sure to catch some eyes if you have these cute trends on this summer!

What are your favorite trends this summer? What are your summer wardrobe "go-to's" and staples? 

Until next time - - 

Bonus Post: "Because you know I'm all about that lace...

...'bout that lace, no sequins." 

Sorry, I had to.

I wanted to throw out a bonus post today (twice on a Friday!) to show you what I wore for NYE! 

Spencer and I walked around the mall on my birthday this past Sunday, and I was attempting to find something fun and festive to wear for the small get together we were hosting at our house for NYE. I looked everywhere for a sequined shirt I liked, a skirt...something that spoke to me (well, not literally because that would have been weird). As I was beginning to think I would leave empty handed, we wandered into The Limited and I found a beautiful lace shirt that I knew was fun enough for NYE, but also could be worn again and again. When I also considered the 40% off sale, it was a no brainer. If you like this top, (which I wore over this cami) head on over and pick one up! 

(I am no fashion blogger, and I am receiving no compensation. I just wanted to share a new find I am loving!)

Have a great weekend!

Until next time - -