THE GUIDE - MAY

THE GUIDE

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make this

I love Chef Chloe’s food. I honestly never knew food could taste this good. Vegan or not, her flavors and her creativity are unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in a meal. Last year I was lucky enough to attend a five-course lunch created by her and Jean Goerges at the Inn at Pound Ridge - it was heaven. I don’t think I’ve ever been able to eat EVERYTHING on a menu so this was a real treat. I can’t wait until she opens ip something more permanent in NYC! Here is her recipe for banana bread!

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practice this

It is supposed to take 21 days to form a habit of low to medium complexity, so start applying sunscreen every morning and wearing a hat when appropriate to get ready for summer sun. Here is an article featuring some of the best natural products on the market for sun. This one was our family favorite last summer! Also love wearing this tinted sunscreen during warm weather months.

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read this

40 things in 40 years. This piece is a must read. My biggest takeaway was this line: Real wealth is health. That rings so true for me especially after becoming a mom. I also loved numbers four and sixteen (“F” luck!). The whole thing is SPOT ON.

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get this

I tried this basic white tee last week and thought it was great. Both the short boxier version and the classic were a great fit. The fabric is really soft and you can’t beat the $30 price tag!

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design this

I’m almost finished with the boy’s bedroom. Hehe! It’s not easy! I’ve been drawing a lot of inspiration from online but its so tough to commit because there is so much that I love! Check out actress Lucy Liu’s playroom. She uses kid friendly colors in neutral tones for a more laid back vibe. Here’s a sneak peak at the nightstand I ordered for between their beds!

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eat this

I’ve been on a bit of a smoothie kick recently. Breakfast is my JAM. I like every meal but I really enjoy eating well in the morning. I used to be a huge fan of eggs because I thought they were the most filling option but at a recent doctor’s appointment I let it slip how often I was eating them - no bueno! Apparently 5 days a week is not great for your cholesterol. Who knew?! So I set out to find something just as simple to make and more importantly just as satisfying.

I always wanted to be a smoothie girl but they overwhelmed me. You always have to have your fridge stocked with fruits and greens and then there is the issue of cleaning the blender. I could never get it right and after all that, it didn’t even taste that great. I probably should write a post about this but in walks Sakara. I’ve been using their life source packets and I’m addicted. I first ordered the 10 day box a month after giving birth to Luke. What I love about it is it has a longer shelf life than the food in a traditional cleanse/meal plan so you can space things out and do it on your own time. Also this is the blender that we have and its so easy to use/clean! Use code girlguide25 for 25% off your 10 day reset box.

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MY TWO FAVORITE SUMMER ACCESSORIES

Last week turned out to be very eventful! It started with a busy schedule at home and at work (we hired a new babysitter and are changing our routine slightly so its been a transition for everyone). Then on Wednesday evening I was gardening with the boys for an hour (ONE HOUR) and the result was the discovery of a tick bite and a poison ivy outbreak. I didn’t realize I had touched poison ivy, so on Friday when I first developed a small rash on my neck and around my eye, I assumed it was a reaction to a new face oil. It wasn’t until Saturday morning when I woke up that I knew something was wrong. Half of my face, neck, and stomach were covered and it was SO itchy! In between errands for Mother’s Day I went to urgent care and was prescribed a 10 day course of steroids. PHEW! I’m still itching while I write this but oddly enough I have to say I ended up having the nicest day on Sunday. It was rainy and cold but we hosted both of our immediate families for dinner and everyone had the best time. I cooked which kept me busy and the boys were so happy to have everyone over. Another highlight last week? The luncheon I attended for the launch of Persifor’s new collection. Alex the founder is a true visionary and it was amazing to see her vision come to life - a collection inspired by Cartagena, Columbia.

Today I’m sharing two of my favorite summer accessories and a great way to refresh your wardrobe. While on the topic of accessories I have the share that I have been wearing these sandals non-stop. They are so comfortable and go with everything!

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T H E H A T

Lately I’ve been loving the addition of a hat to my outfit. Not only is it a practical solution to keeping the sun out of my face, I love the contrast of a structured hat with a beach dress…

T H E S U M M E R B A G

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CULT GAIA

TOPSHOP

CESTA COLLECTIVE

hunting season

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more styles to love

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get the look

R H O D E R E S O R T

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Mother's Day GIFT GUIDE

S H O P F O R M O M

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l a s t m i n u t e

SHORTS AND SPRING SKIN

get the look

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Its almost shorts season! I’ve always struggled with shorts. I guess I have a longest of criteria when it comes to them - comfortable, not too short, and flattering around the thigh area. I wanted to try this pair all last summer but never pulled the trigger. I finally ended up ordering them this winter and instantly fell in love. They’re high-waisted so they suck everything in and are great for tucking in blouses which I love to do!

OK - another item on the hunt for. Self tanner! We’re planning a few three day vacations over the next three months and I would love to have a little bronzey glow:) I don’t really tan and even if I did I’m not in the sun enough to catch any real color. SO….send me your recs! I’d prefer to find something that is natural or organic if possible and will share recommendations and my reviews! My tan summer self thanks you:)

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ONE DRESS, TWO WAYS

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T H E D R E S S

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l o o k o n e

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l o o k t w o

DRESS STYLING FOR SPRING + SUMMER

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t h e a c c e s s o r i e s

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There is just something about throwing on a lightweight dress, sliding into your favorite sandals, and heading off to enjoy a sunny day. In today’s video I’m sharing a mix of some of last year’s favorites and some new styles that I’ve added to my wardrobe. I wore this style to everywhere last summer - from my sister’s bachelorette party in Sag Harbor, NY to the beaches in Belgium. You can also style it open over a bathing suit for a chic coverup alternative.

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D R E S S E S

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Its important to invest in pieces you love and will wear year after year. BUT, great style doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite styles at a more affordable price point.

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U N D E R 1 0 0

ORANGE IS THE NEW WHITE

get the look

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I love styling summer dresses. Probably because I also love raffia accessories and the two make the perfect pair! Its much easier to achieve the look you want on a budget in the summer especially when it comes to accessories. This style is amazing for summer and when I found this steal pair for under $100 I was so excited. Here’s a style coming soon for under $50! If you’re looking for a raffia pair and willing to spend a little more I have these and they’re VERY comfortable. Worth the price tag!

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Stephanie

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WOVEN SANDALS & PRETTY PRINTS

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SUMMER ENTERTAINING ESSENTIALS

tabletop

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furniture

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accessories

ELEGANT SPRING

featured

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SHOP THE POST

THE GUIDE - APRIL

THE GUIDE

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GRILL THIS

This was my family’s favorite summer meal last year. Turkey burgers are a great alternative to classic beef ones and its nice to switch it up during grilling season. I actually made them for a Mother’s Day barbecue and everyone was so impressed! The avocado and basil mash makes it! You will not be dissapointed!

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DO THIS

BUT HOW? How do we fix the problems of our planet, the environment? I’ve been trying to educate myself on what’s happening and reading articles like this one. Plastic raining from the sky? By this point you’ve probably seen the video the turtle squealing in pain as researchers remove a plastic straw from its nostril. I don’t know what the answer is but I know it starts with us. Every little bit counts.

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GIFT THIS

With Mother’s Day around the corner I’ve been on the hunt for interesting and unique gifts that don’t break the bank. Something that feels special but not extravagant. These earrings are so pretty and will look great no matter what age or hair color. I’m pretty simple when it comes to accessories so for me these are the perfect balance of casual yet refined. They pass the white t-shirt or cocktail dress test! Stay tuned for more Mother’s Day gift guides coming to the blog next week.

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MAKE THIS

OK, I’m sharing two recipes this month because I’ve been in a bit of a dinner rut lately. We eat a chicken about three times a week in our house. This recipe is great because you can just make a side of brown basmati rice and you’re set! I love how fresh it is….your house will smell amazing!

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ORGANIZE THIS

One of the first rooms I tackled when we moved into our home two years ago was the front foyer area. Not only did I want it to look nice for guests and our family, I knew it was going to be high-traffic and needed to be functional. We have a tall but shallow closet with hooks and one shelf. I used four of these baskets and I love them! They’re filled with hats, scarves, gloves, and empty reusable tote bags (I file fold these). I alsolove that they come with a liner that I can wash if necessary. I’ve done it twice so far just for a refresh. Also, they’re currently on sale:)

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REUSE THIS

Spring cleaning isn’t just for our closets. Now is a great time to revamp and replace some of your everyday kitchen products with more earth-friendly ones. We just started using these placemats and I’m actually planning on laminating a few so they last a little longer (will share on my stories @stephanietrotta). They are the perfect size for any family meal and after a handful of uses you can just pop them into your recycling bin! Love the reversible print!

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INVESTMENT PIECES

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I’ve always liked having fewer, better things. I remember in college using three months of saved babysitting money to buy one blouse from my favorite store in Georgetown (I still have it by the way!). While all my friends were buying weekly from Urban Outfitters on M Street, I was pining away for a new pair of shoes (WAY out of my budget) from a little boutique tucked away on Wisconsin Avenue. The women that worked there definitly thought I was crazy - visiting often and buying never.

I fall in love with things. I dream about them, I style them in my head, and then I set a goal. It sounds silly but thats how I do it. One of my biggest investment pieces is my Cartier Love Bracelet. It was in my early 20’s when I first learned about it. I went with a friend to the Vogue offices to drop off samples of her jewelry and the receptionist was wearing one. I whispered to my friend about it and she told me what it was. I remember going home and telling my then boyfriend (now husband) Frank about it and we both nearly fell over when we looked up the price. PS it was less than half the price it is now. This is why they’re called investment pieces hehe….

Fast forward 10 years later. Luke was born and after holding out and saving every birthday, anniversary, and Christmas, we bought it. I haven’t taken it off since (its been 4 years) and I truly love it just as much as I did when I was 20. So there it is. I have a few other splurge pieces (a black Chanel WOC that I bought for myself after my first bonus at Ralph Lauren) but the Cartier bracelet is my most special.

I’ve talked about splurge pieces before on the blog. Obviously you’re not going to wait 10 years every time you want to invest in a new handbag BUT I always recommend waiting at least a few weeks once you’ve seen something. Pinterest is also a great tool for finding inspiration and helping you “dream” about how your new piece will look. I’ve had my heart set on this bag for a long time. For a while I was looking for it secondhand but I don’t think I’ll be able to find the exact combination i’m looking for. What’s on your list? I would love to hear from you guys in the comments:)

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S

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SHOP THE POST

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A CAPE FIT FOR A SUPERHERO

OUTFIT DETAILS

CAPE c/o Marta Scarampi (arriving soon in this color) // BLAZER c/o Marta Scarampi // TEE Theory // DENIM Zara // PUMPS Steve Madden // SUNGLASSES Illesteva

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THE CAPE

This cape was one of those pieces I didn’t know I was missing until I discovered it last month. Now I can’t live without it! Straight from Italy, this up and coming designer is going to change women from casual to chic one cape at a time. I first fell in love with this raincoat complete with a custom hood and nestled within a tailored pocket inside the front lapel. Also its wrinkle free! Genius!

Other reasons to love Marta Scarampi? Marta and her sister Lucia are two super chic girl bosses born and raised in Turino, Italy. Visit them here and say hi! PS if you’re looking for the color in today’s post its on its way this Spring! Click here to be added to the waitlist!

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“EVERY SUPERWOMAN NEEDS A CAPE.”

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A CASUAL SPRING LOOK ON A BUDGET

GET THE LOOK

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Call me crazy, and I’ve talked about this here before, but I love wearing black in the Spring and Summer! To me it feels more fresh paired with whites and ivory and I love the transitional combo. I’ve been on the hunt for a new black sandal to replace a pair that I’ve had for almost 10 years and just finally threw away. I love the buckle detail on these and how easy they are to slip on while I’m running out the door to work or school drop-off (usually with my hands full). They also come in a beige canvas striped style if you’re looking for a lighter neutral!

I wore these distressed black jeans on Saturday night paired with this open cardigan. I took a chance on the cardigan because its something i’ve really needed but I wasn’t sure what the quality was going to be like at a $10 price point. True story: I came downstairs and Frank said, “Wow, is that a new sweater?!” (insert laughing emoji). The BEST steal I’ve ever found!

I found my entire look at Walmart and each piece is under $100. I love that I can find everything I need for myself or for my clients with the Walmart premium brands and their selections from Lord & Taylor.

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— I would like to thank Walmart for sponsoring this post —

All thoughts and opinions are my own

MY SHOPBOP SALE PICKS

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I splurged this top because I love the brand and I’ve never seen them offer a blouse for under $500. Also even though its part of their spring collection, I know I’ll be able to wear it for Fall too.

I’ve been talking A TON about these sneakers but thats only because they’re SO comfortable. I'm not kidding I wear them almost everyday at least once. They’re so easy to get on and off and I just washed them this weekend and they turned out great. I wore them all over Belgium last summer:)

I purchased this dress at the beginning of last summer it was one of my go-to’s. Again, great for a trip because it packs so easily and its one of those pieces that you can dress up or wayyyy down. Love it worn open over a bathing suit or bikini!

I purchased these shorts and this pair of sandals during the last shopbop sale but they seem to be almost sold out. I wanted to share though because sometimes they restock. The sandals also come in three other colors, here.

USE CODE EVENT19 for 20% off under $500 and 25% off over $500

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THE PERFECT SPRING DRESS

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I found it! A neutral dress for Spring that you can wear both casually and dressed up. Leave it to Walmart to create the perfect high/low look that I love (and live by)! With the launch of their We Dress America campaign, Walmart fashion is turning things up a notch and there is something for every style and size. Also, their collection of premium brands offer options for every occasion from Easter Sunday to your next vacation.

The sleeve on this dress is so pretty and perfect for the transitional temperatures. Also its super maternity and breast feeding friendly with its looser silhouette and button up neckline. I’ve been looking for a transitional shoe for Spring and this espadrille will take you all the way through Summer. This style is under $100 and also comes in black. I’ve also had my eye on these espadrille sandals.

Speaking of warmer temps, this past weekend was gorgeous! I can’t wait to have friends and family over for barbecues and with Harrison’s second birthday fast approaching, we’re thinking we’ll have someting low key on the back patio. Right now we only have a table but I’m loving this outdoor sectional from Better Homes & Gardens paired with this simple grey striped pillow. Its the perfect time to elevate your home and wardrobe with neutrals from Walmart.

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GET THE LOOK

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— I would like to thank Walmart for sponsoring this post —

All thoughts and opinions are my own

SPRING BLAZER + EARTH TONES

e a r t h t o n e s

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“I’ve always loved neutrals. I partly attribute it to spending so much time in Belgium when I was younger where the aesthetic is tonal and clean. But that's not the whole story. My favorite brand is Phoebe Philo’s Chloé. I’ve always fallen love with a light soothing palette…it just speaks to me. I also find it very easy to get dressed that way. Everything just works.”

“Whether a blazer is $40 or $400, it always feels richer to me in a blush or a terracotta. Its just not the same for Navy.”

n e u t r a l s

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SPRING FLOWERS

GET THE LOOK

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Yay April 1st! I can’t believe it. This past Saturday was 73 degrees for a few hours and I soaked every single minute of it up! Somehow it went back to 32 this morning (maybe a little April fools joke) but just the thought that it was the first day of April kept me warm:)

I’ve always loved floral dresses for Spring and Summer. When I saw this one I immediately grabbed it. It has the prettiest pink and orange flowers on a green background and still manages to feel neutral. I’ve actually worn it twice already - once a brunch with a local organization and once as a skirt with a sweater. I’ve been thinking about Easter and really love the 70’s vibe of this dress. Again its bright, but feels very classic and timeless. On another note: I have to share this set with you! I was shopping for a client former upcoming trip and found this. It looks amazing with a pair of white jeans and will easily pack for any climate!

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S

shop spring florals

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10 WAYS I PRACTICE SELF-CARE WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK

‘You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first”

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1.

get a 15 minute chair massage

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2.

buy grocery store flowers and arrange them

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3.

face mask and a bath before bed

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4.

try a new coffee shop with a friend

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5.

diffuse essential oils and meditate or close your eyes for 15 minutes. If you’re at work, take a break to apply an essential oil roller ball to the palms of your hands and take a few deeps breaths

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There is no doubt that self-care is essential to living a happier life. I love treating myself once in a while to a facial, fancy dinner, or a new splurge item from my wishlist, but thats not realistic on a weekly basis. Its important to find things that don’t cost a fortune so that you can feel good about doing them, often!

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6.

listen to a podcast with a cup of tea

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7.

take a few extra minutes to make something you really enjoy for breakfast + sit down to eat it without feeling guilty! It will taste better that way:)

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8.

FaceTime with your bestie

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9.

clean out your DVR - you might find something you want to watch! Now GO! Watch it!

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10.

write. I’ve said it a million times…”I don’t have time to make lists”. I’m always going, going, going, and once kids are in the mix this constant sense of urgency can be exhausting and you feel like you’re losing your mind. When I take the time to write down what I need to do for the day/week I feel so much better. My mind is clear.

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LUST LIST - THE SPRING BLUES

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STYLED

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Took a little unintentional hiatus from Lust List posts but they’re back! I’m actually not the biggest fan of blues. I’ve mentioned it before but navy just doesn’t do it for me * GASP * You might be wondering how I worked at Ralph Lauren for so long (hehe). BUT I do love this shade of light blue and fell in love with this sweater in the city this weekend. I also picked up this floral dress which I’m shooting tomorrow…so excited!

Today I wanted to introduce you to a new brand that you may not be familiar with. I’ve been shopping it in Europe for a while and only recently has it become more available in the states through a few sites. It is extremely well priced for the quality and design! Meet Mes Demoiselles…

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MES DEMOISELLES

Pssst! Let me let you on on a little secret. Click here for this dress and then click here for the same dress. Notice anything different? The price! Whenever I’m shopping European brands I always check Matches first. They offer a better price and have free shipping and returns. Also, taxes are minimal if at all. You’re welcome!

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t h e b l u e e d i t

SPRING STYLE VIDEO

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I am SO excited to share this Spring style video with you! I remember watching similar ones that sites like Net-A-Porter would create 7+ years ago and thinking to myself, “I want to do this”. It all seemed so far away…a pipe dream! But here we are with the first of hopefully many! WHOOP WHOOP! Not going to lie, the first time I watched this all complete I got a little choked up when the girl first starts singing in the song…such a dork! I would LOVE to hear your comments and thoughts and especially what types of styling you would like to see more of. Thank you so much for being here and for following along.

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the accessories

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THE BUTTONDOWN

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THE EASY PANT

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THE KNIT

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THE BLOUSE

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THE TEE

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THE STRIPED SHIRT

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wear it with

ivory trench // zara

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video filming + editing // julia dags